Tag: writing

Interview with Author Melanie Lane Durham

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

I have always loved writing since I was a young girl. I would get lost in books, and would spend hours pretending to be the characters in my favorite stories. I was very drawn to writing poetry and short stories as a kid, and knew I wanted to write something some day!

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

My family and I had just moved into a new house, it was a big move for us and I was constantly telling my two small children how magical everything was going to be when we got settled in. Unfortunately, the house ended up making me very ill. I was stuck in bed all the time and wracked with guilt for life not living up to this magical promise I had made. I was looking for a way to communicate this to my older daughter, and in that, the first draft of Every Day Magic was born. I wrote it as a note in my phone and asked if I could read her a “book with no pictures”, and explained to her that it would help her understand how life could still be full of magic even while Mommy was sick. She ended up loving it, and that inspired me to pursue publishing! 

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

I really hope that all readers of my book, young and young at heart, come to realize that the magic in life is what’s happening while we’re out there searching for it. We as a society, as parents, as partners, as friends, tend to put so much pressure on how things look and less on how they feel — and often we miss what’s right in front of us. Those small, quiet moments filled with beauty, that’s where the magic lies!

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I never planned to write a children’s book, but having kids can definitely give you the courage to do things you never thought you were capable of before!

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

I’d love to ask the main character, Edie, how she plans to include the baby in the book in some of her rituals. The characters are all based on my own family, and with my youngest walking and talking now, I’d love to see how her role in the story may change!

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

Unfortunately, social media hasn’t been a huge help to me. I’m sure it’s just user error! I have loved sharing my book within my community, as a small business owner my current clients and customers have become my biggest fans!

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

Just start. If you wait for it to be perfect, you’ll never be ready. Jump in, learn as you go, and believe in yourself!

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

As for now, I’m still learning how to adjust to selling, marketing, and managing the one book on top of my business and raising two small children. I really hope to write more in the future, and hopefully get some good footing navigating the landscape that is children’s books! It’s been an incredible ride so far.

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About the Author

Hi, I’m Melanie, and I’m so grateful you’re here! As a small business owner, mom of two small children, and lover of magic and mindfulness — the opportunity to share my book with the world is a dream come true. I have loved to write since I was a young girl and I hope getting my words out there shows readers, young and old, that it’s never too late to follow your dreams! When I am not writing or working in my business, you can find me chasing my two littles (and the dog!) around my Northern California backyard or spending time with family friends.

My Story: I believe in the power of life’s little wonders. Born out of a personal journey, Everyday Magic is one of those wonders! In 2023 I was met with the sudden onset of a chronic illness caused by unforeseen circumstances with roots going back to my early childhood. What felt like overnight, I found myself going from an active entrepreneur to a woman often stuck in bed.

I began dreaming up ways to engage with my kids and make meaningful memories, even when my energy was low. These ideas became the heart of this book, a story crafted with love, imagination, and the belief that magic isn’t something we find; it’s something we create! I believe every single one of us has the power within to bring that magic to life.

I hope this story sparks wonder, connection, and a little bit of magic for you and your family- just as it has for mine!

https://a.co/fGhcEpp

Interview with Author Lincoln James

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Interviews2 Comments

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

I started writing pretty young. I grew up in a small town in Georgia with a public library right behind my house, and I practically lived in it. By fourth grade, I was already writing short mystery stories and would ask my teacher if I could read them to the class. Every now and then, she’d say yes—and something about those moments stuck with me. I think I knew even then that storytelling was what I wanted to do with my life.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

All the Time is a very personal book for me. It’s about nostalgia as a survival tactic—how we sometimes escape into the past to avoid dealing with the present, and what happens when we get stuck there. The story was inspired by the media I grew up loving (such as Back to the Future and The Wizard of Oz), and also by a kind of imagined version of my own adolescence—one that might’ve existed if I’d been born a decade earlier. It’s rooted in longing, grief, and the desire to find meaning in unlikely places.

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

At its core, All the Time is about connection—how grief and uncertainty can bring people together, even in the most unexpected ways. I hope readers walk away with the reminder that we’re never truly alone in what we’re feeling, even if it sometimes seems that way. And as Yeats once wrote, “There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet.” That’s the heart of the book.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

Growing up in rural Georgia, there wasn’t much to do. During the day, I was buried in library books; at night, my older brother—who worked at Blockbuster—would bring home horror movies and try to scare me. The plan backfired spectacularly. He’d fall asleep, and I’d stay up late imagining how I’d survive if I were the final girl. That love for the eerie and emotional never left. My sister’s obsession with Unsolved Mysteries and Dateline sealed the deal—I was hooked on suspense, survival, and the strange tenderness hiding inside scary stories.

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

I’d choose Nat. She’s the grounding force Carter never saw coming—the friend who shows up just when he needs one most. She’s smart, practical, and emotionally complex. I’d ask how she interpreted the events of the story and whether the experience made her more hopeful or more afraid. She carries so much weight quietly, and I’d love to know what she held back, and why.

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

Instagram has definitely been the most helpful. It’s where I connect with readers most directly—whether through posts, stories, or DMs. I used to have a big presence on Vine and Musical.ly back in the day, but after stepping into my adult life and shifting focus to writing, Instagram has become my main space. It’s where I share updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and stay in conversation with the people reading my work.

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

Find writer friends. Truly. Having people who understand the ups and downs of this process makes all the difference. I met some of my closest friends in undergrad creative writing classes, and we still hold each other accountable, cheer each other on, and read each other’s work. Writing can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Join workshops, submit to forums, follow writing communities on social media. And if you’re ever in need of a lifeline—I mean this—my DMs are always open. I believe in paying it forward.

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

Absolutely. My latest novel, Written Just For You, released this past May, and I’m incredibly proud of how it’s been received. It’s set in 1962 and follows Will, a teenage boy who falls in love with a girl the town claims either never existed—or died long ago. As he tries to save her from the house she’s trapped in, he starts to wonder whether he’s chasing a ghost… or becoming one. It’s haunting, heartfelt, and might just be my favorite book yet. And I’ve got even more stories on the way.


(Social media link: @lincolnjjames on Instagram)

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About the Author


Lincoln James, your favorite author’s favorite author, is celebrated for his haunting love stories, vintage thrillers, and slow-burn suspense. His characters feel, ache, and bleed, often trapped between the past and the people who won’t let them forget it.

In 2025, James was featured in The New York Review and named Best New Thriller Author in New York by Best of Best Review, honors recognizing his compelling storytelling and emotional depth.

When he’s not writing, James is a Communication professor in New York City and cherishes moments with friends and family, proving that the most thrilling tales lie in the love and laughter shared with those closest to us.

https://thelincolnjames.com/

Interview with Author Brent Golembiewski

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

I grew up in Michigan wanting to be a Disney Cartoonist but life had a different plan for me. After high school and a semester in college I joined the Air Force working on F-16s as an avionics tech. I finished my College degree going to night school and was accepted to Officer Training School where I gained my commission and went on to fly helicopters specifically the UH-1N Huey for over 17 years before retiring. My writing journey really began during a deployment to Iraq but it wasn’t until I retired I buckled down and finished my first book. I have published a Sci-Fi trilogy, another stand alone Sci-Fi dystopian novel and a self help book based on my USAF career aimed to help young people who are looking to join the USAF.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

I wrote my current book “The Boy the Cube and the Elf” to target the middle grade readers ages 8-12 with a story that is fast fun and something kids would love to read and hold their attention even if they are not avid readers.

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

The theme I hope to portray is that hard work, good choices and faith in God will help you overcome any obstacle life throws your way.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I have always loved the Sci-fi realm, especially space and the unknown of what’s beyond our solar system. New technology intrigues me and the great potential we have moving forward.

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

I would love to sit down with Nico and ask him how amazing his journey has been, what he’s learned, how learning things he never would have thought possible has affected him. 

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

I mainly use Facebook and it has been helpful in some aspects. I see a shift to other platform and are working on learning them and seeing how they can help.

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

Write, Write Write. Get out there and do it. The world is full of people saying they can only to sit on their hands either scared or distracted. Just start doing it and don’t worry about anything. It’s cliche but be true to yourself.

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

I’ve just finished the draft for the second book in my central fire series and am publishing “Flick of the Switch” on September 14th. Its a near future sci-fi about a teenage girl who attends a video game academy playing flight simulators only to find out they are real and actually fighting a war. In addition im looking to dip my toe into filming and am in the initial stages of developing a short film based on Flick of the Switch and have the screen play written.

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About the Author

Brent Golembiewski is a U. S. Air Force veteran with 20+ years of service. He started his career as an enlisted troop, working as an Electronic Warfare Technician, and completed it as an officer, never working a day as a Helicopter Evaluator Pilot, flying the mighty UH-1N “Huey”. After retiring from the USAF, he began Valkyrie Air, providing aircraft charter operations for people who find value in time. He met the love of his life in the second-worst place he’d ever been stationed and she’s still on active duty. Together they have two boys, the terrible Ts, and one old caricature of a dog that will never die.

www.authorbrentg.com

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ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person: Essays and Short Stories about Identity by Rowland Grover Review

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

Author Rowland Grover shares a collection of essays and short stories that speak to topics of culture, faith, and identity in the book “ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person: Essays and Short Stories about Identity.”

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The Synopsis

When Rowland Grover asked his preschool teacher if he could ฉี่ (chi), she looked at him like he wasn’t speaking English. After holding it for too long, he peed his pants and realized he was different from everyone around him.

As a half-Thai/half-white kid raised Mormon in Idaho, shame, guilt, and confusion were normal for Rowland. He didn’t understand why he took off his shoes at his house, but his friends could keep theirs on and drag dog poop all over the floor. When Rowland lived in Thailand, Thai people said he looked farang, but white people called him Mexican. This made him wonder who he was and where he belonged.

ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person is an captivating and hilarious collection of essays and short stories that explores culture, faith, and identity. The stories range from “stinky lunches” to a talking lizard questioning Rowland’s religion. Others are more serious such as when a stranger called the cops because Rowland looked threatening riding an old beach cruiser bike. Tackled with humor and heart, Rowland dives into the depths to find himself and wonders if he’ll come up for air.

The Review

This was an incredibly insightful and engaging story that is so reflective of the American experience in this day and age. Far too often, people in the United States forget just how much of a cultural melting pot the nation has become, especially when cruel actions and judgments dominate the news cycle most of the time. The honesty and relatability in the author’s writing style allowed the personal experiences and lessons the author learned throughout their life to resonate deeply as the reader delved further into this book.

The rich cultural examination presented in the author’s book was the prominent driving force behind these essays and short stories. The everyday experiences the author brought to life, from a childhood of misidentification, differing customs, and a lingering sense of otherness that children often inadvertently foster, to shared faith and much more, showcased both the differences and shared life that families of differing cultures can form, while also bringing an awareness of what makes us all different at the same time.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, engaging, and with a sense of heart and humor, author Rowland Grover’s “ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person: Essays and Short Stories about Identity” is a must-read memoir meets nonfiction essay collection. The witty style of writing the author employs and the depth of introspective honesty that the author’s experiences bring to life on the page will stay with readers long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Since he was young, Rowland has loved to create stories. Whether that was using stuffed animals to portray the horror of war and class division or writing and drawing maps in a notebook for a fantasy story that was not a rip-off of any other popular series. Rowland’s debut book, ลูกครึ่ง: Only Half a Person, utilizes his love of story-telling to reflect on and analyze his life, race and ethnicity, culture, faith, family, and more.

Rowland Grover was born and raised in Idaho, which, believe it or not, is a real place in the United States. Starting in his late teens, he lived on and off in Thailand, China, and Taiwan for several years. Rowland graduated with a B.A. in International Studies because he had no life plan. Then, he enrolled at Chulalongkorn University to study Southeast Asia Area Studies, but he had to drop out because, quote, “no money.”

He currently lives in Taiwan with his wife, two children, and two cats. Besides unromantic walks on the beach, he enjoys playing video games and studying languages.

https://rowlandgroverauthor.weebly.com/

Bernard’s Song by Darius Cache Review

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

A young rapper’s world unravels after the events of a deadly shooting in author Darius Cache’s “Bernard’s Song.”

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The Synopsis

Scorned, revenge is no longer a dish best served cold for Bernard Woods leaving blood on the streets of Northside Atlanta.

Darius Cache is a voice for people of color who are teenagers, people of color who are young adults, and parents of these groups. This novel is a true to life tale centering conversations around mental health and repairing family structure related to conflict resolution, conquering substance abuse, and anger management. Bernard’s Song is an account of his actual life that can be described as biographical urban fiction. Bernard wants to be rich but doesn’t have any real goals. Bernard’s love interest is equally addicted to the fast life and takes a job working as a strip club bottle girl. Bernard and his cousin talk with thick Atlanta accents. The reader might understand what goes through the mind of Bernard—he raps with a crew called DVS. Bernard is a fraudster and thief, a robber and crack dealer who kills Teddie. Doraville becomes the site of a major shootout and Bernard is critically wounded. In his final thoughts, he walks back memories. Parallel themes of love, loyalty, and resilience mimic the life of everyday people.

Nardo is the protagonist in Bernard’s Song. Nardo is a wannabe rapper/trapper who is the main character. Nardo is a 23-year-old, black male with close-cropped black hair, athletic build and medium height. Nardo is shady. Teddie is the antagonist in Bernard’s Song. Teddie is a drug trafficker who supplies the main character. Teddie is a white male, 25 years old with blonde hair. Teddie runs a wholesale marijuana distribution operation. Alicia is the love interest in Bernard’s Song. Alicia is an aspiring chef who smokes weed and likes to drink. Alicia is a 24-year-old black female, long dark hair, athletic build with large breasts and wide hips. Alicia is scandalous. Marco, the main character’s cousin, is the confidant/ally in Bernard’s Song. Marco is the father of one child, a son. Marco is a 23-year-old black male with close-cropped black hair and similar body attributes as the main character although slightly more muscular. Marco is cunning.

The main character faces copious amounts of adversity. He endures all things until the end; most of his problems are his own doing. The main character could be a victim or a hero depending on the reader’s perspective. Inevitably, every person must face their own battles individually. Bernard’s Song does a good job of unmasking the main character and relating similarities between our common existence.

The Review

This was a powerful, honest, and visceral read. The author did a marvelous job of infusing the setting, culture, and tone of life in Atlanta in a refreshingly compelling way. The strong language and relatability many readers will have with this cast of characters help reinforce Atlanta itself as a character of sorts, capturing the gritty heart of what life in the city is like for many people while also utilizing powerful imagery in the author’s writing style to make these iconic landmarks and streets come to life on the page. 

The driving force of this narrative was the complex character development and the strong themes the story featured. The author’s exploration of the protagonist’s struggles and morality in the face of adversity and hardship was insightful, as it highlighted the clash of culture, mental health, and identity all at once. The tension and violence often endured in this Atlanta community were visceral in nature, keeping the reader in suspense as the narrative raced towards its explosive conclusion. 

The Verdict

Memorable, honest, and compelling, author Darius Cache’s “Bernard’s Song” is a must-read urban fiction and genre fiction novel. The twists and turns in the story, along with the realism the author infused into this tense and heartbreaking narrative, tell a compelling and essential tale as one man struggles to make the right choices in his life when the world around him is crumbling, keeping the reader invested in the story until the very end. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Darius Cache (pronounced kash) published his first book, Bernard’s Song, which mirrored his life and tumultuous circumstances. His company, Darius Cache Company LLC and Noah’s Fund for Mental Health Research & Education, Inc., a nonprofit organization, represent his entrepreneur mindset. He has committed 100% of Amazon book sale earnings to Noah’s Fund.

Darius Cache is the father of one son, Nahledge. He often participates in school programs and donated his children’s book, The Adventures of Veggies with Jam. His focus is brand identity and financial literacy encouraging teenagers and young adults who are people of color and their parents to pay close attention to credit scores, saving habits, and wise investments.

https://www.dariuscache.com/

Restoring Our Sanity Online: A Revolutionary Social Framework by Mark Weinstein Review

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

Author and tech expert Mark Weinstein shares the framework for a more positive and balanced social media environment in the book “Revitalizing Our Sanity Online: A Revolutionary Social Framework.”

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The Synopsis

Big Tech is driving us, our kids, and society mad. In the nick of time, Restoring Our Sanity Onlinepresents the bold, revolutionary framework for an epic reboot. What would social media look like if it nourished our critical thinking, mental health, privacy, civil discourse, and democracy? Is that even possible? 

Restoring Our Sanity Online is the entertaining, informative, and frequently jaw-dropping social reset by Mark Weinstein, contemporary tech leader, privacy expert, and one of the visionary inventors of social networking.

This book is for all of us. Casual and heavy users of social media, parents, teachers, students, techies, entrepreneurs, investors, and elected officials. Restoring Our Sanity Online is the catapult to an exciting, enriching, and authentic future. Readers will embark on a captivating journey leading to an inspiring and actionable reinvention.

Restoring Our Sanity Online includes thought-provoking insights including:

  • Empowering You—Social Media User, Content Creator
  • In The Crosshairs: Privacy And Anonymity
  • Saving Our Kids From The Abyss
  • Surprise! Social Media Can Be Good For Your Mental Health
  • Is AI The High-Tech Tattletale In Your Social Experience?
  • Lifting the Veil On Bots and Trolls
  • Facts, Opinions, Lies—Who Decides?
  • Web3 Is Here—What The Heck Is It?
  • Is There a Better Way?

The Review 

This was a thoughtful, expertly researched, and engaging read. The author did a fantastic job of balancing the book, combining technical knowledge of technology and the business surrounding social media development with personal storytelling and a strong connection to the reader. The author introduced numerous elements of this business that were mind-blowing, including the infusion of Conscious Capitalism into social media development and the significant influence that social media influencers have on the growing market.

Yet it was the ethical nature of the author’s work and research that stood out. The virtues of Restoration Networking were an especially inspiring work. The need to eliminate targeted ads and data mining, along with infusing age verification and parental permission for younger teens and even limiting screen times in general would not only help eliminate the negatives of social media, but create more opportunities for the benefits of social media to shine, such as education opportunities, jobs, and connecting with friends and family more often.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, engaging, and inviting in general, author Mark Weinstein’s “Restoring Our Sanity Online” is a must-read nonfiction book on social media and parenting as a whole. The powerful insights, real-world strategies, and tools to help safely immerse teens in the social media scene, along with the expertise the author brings to their writing, will stay with readers, allowing them to return to this book time and again to gain a deeper understanding of the social media world. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author 

Mark Weinstein is a world-renowned tech entrepreneur, contemporary thought leader, privacy expert, and one of the visionary inventors of social networking. His adventure in social media has lasted over 25 years through three award-winning personal social media platforms enjoyed by millions of members worldwide.

GUEST POST: ON APPROPRIATION BY KAREN CHASE, AUTHOR OF TWO TALES: JAMALI KAMALI AND ZUNDELSTATE

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, Guest Post1 Comment

On Appropriation

     For almost forever, writers have been advised to “write what you know.” At this tricky moment in our culture, that phrase has gathered momentum. Writing what you know is often a tidy and effective way not to appropriate someone else’s identity.

    In my newly released book, Two Tales: Jamali Kamali and ZundelState, I have written two stories that did not grow from what I know but from what I don’t know. In these pages, I will talk about the first tale. Jamali and Kamali lived in sixteenth century India and are buried together in a small tomb in India. The poem is a fictional account of their love, separation, and death. 

     Here’s what happened. In 2004, I spent a month-long writing residency at the Sanskriti Foundation in Delhi.  One morning, a week after I arrived – I hadn’t written a thing that first week and didn’t really care — the Sanskriti residents were told that later that day, we would have a chance to visit the newly restored Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb, which had been in the process of restoration for seven years. 

     Our bus arrived at the overgrown park entrance.  We traipsed alongside a river full of plastic garbage, climbed through hills of brush, climbed over unrestored ruins, climbed through Balban’s Tomb, and finally arrived on top of a hill, a plateau, where the Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb stood.  A brand-new sign at its entrance informed visitors that the Tomb held the remains of Jamali, a 16th century Sufi Court Poet and Saint and Kamali, whose identity, the sign said, was unknown.

     When I entered the tomb, its beauty startled me.  Looking at the two white marble graves, the conservator began to talk.  He explained who Jamali was, then said, “It is believed, through Delhi’s oral tradition, that Kamali was his homosexual lover.”  “What?” I blurted out, “But…. the new sign out front says his identity was unknown.  I don’t understand.  Why does the sign say that Kamali’s identity is unknown.”  He explained that, in fact, no-one really knows for sure who Kamali was, and also the information that he may have been Jamali’s male lover would never be announced on a public sign, taking into account the beliefs of our large Muslim population.”  

     Deeply jarred by the disjuncture of that moment, when I returned to my Sanskriti desk, I began to write as if I were Jamali speaking to Kamali.  I had nothing in mind. No direction. By the end of three weeks in Delhi, there was a draft of the first section of Jamali Kamali.  Almost two years later, what began that moment in Delhi, had grown into a book-length poem.

     Many people have asked me, “Why did YOU write this book? The answer is – I don’t really know. 

     I’m not a man.  I’m not gay. I’m not Indian.  I’m not Muslim. I’m not a Mughal scholar.  I’m not an art historian. I’m a straight white American Jewish 21st century woman. I’ve crossed many lines here – gender, sexual orientation, time, hemisphere, religion, culture, etcetera. Without intention, I appropriated.

    Since then, many people who have read Jamali Kamali, believe I was channeling the men. Others have mistaken it for a translation of Jamali’s poetry. And, strangely enough, in India, my poem has been cited numerous times as a historical record about the two men.

     Opening oneself to the unknown paves the way for large-scale exploration rather than the up-close, confining details of “what I know.” The unknown is a wider plain—a vast place where options flourish. It expands the smallness of “what I know.” 

     Was I channeling these men? Is the poem an expression of my subconscious? Or is it the imagination at work? Are these three things separate, do they overlap, or are they the same thing? Who knows. What I do know is that when you open the mind’s flaps, leave behind what you know, and walk through a blank landscape, you may be taken aback by what you find.

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About the Author

Karen Chase is the author of two collections of poems, Kazimierz Square and BEAR, as well as Jamali-Kamali: A Tale of Passion in Mughal India, a book-length homoerotic poem, published in India in 2011. Her award-winning book, Land of Stone, tells the story of her work with a silent young man in a psychiatric hospital where she was the hospital poet.

In her memoir Polio Boulevard, Chase brings the reader back to the polio outbreak of the 1950s that crippled our country. In her lively sickbed she experiences puppy love, applies to the Barbizon School of Modeling, and dreams of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The Larooco Log: FDR on the Houseboat, a project that grew directly out of her memoir, follows Franklin Delano Roosevelt during a Florida winter when he lived on a houseboat, attempting to regain use of his paralyzed legs. History Is Embarrassing, her collection of essays, was published in 2024, and Two Tales: Jamali Kamali and ZundelState, in 2025.

Karen Chase’s poems, stories and essays have appeared in The New Yorker, The New Republic, The Gettysburg Review and Southwest Review, among others. Her poems have been anthologized in The Norton Introduction to Poetry, Andrei Codrescu’s An Exquisite Corpse Reader, and Billy Collins’ Poetry 180. Chase and her husband, the painter Paul Graubard, live in Western Massachusetts.

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Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect by Ben Jackson & Sam Lawrence Review

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

A young girl must balance her schoolwork, a new business venture, and her softball team in authors Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence’s “Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect.”

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The Synopsis

Olivia had been scared starting over in a new town, with new friends and a new softball team, but her worst fears hadn’t materialized, and, in the end, she was settling in as the Blue Jay’s lead pitcher and had quickly formed a small group of core friends she was growing to love.

With the first softball game of the season done and dusted, the Blue Jays were off to a great start, but could they carry their winning momentum into their upcoming games? Only time will tell.

The girls were working hard on and off the field, with a new business venture quickly taking shape and their friendship group getting a little bigger with a new addition to the trio. However, Olivia knew that she couldn’t afford to slip up. She’d need to put 100% into everything, including softball, her schoolwork, and her new business, if she didn’t want it all to come crashing down.

Will Olivia’s new business collide head-on with softball and schoolwork, or will she be able to pull it off? Read Softball Strikeout Pitch Perfect now to find out!

Stay tuned for more books in the Softball Strikeout Series!

AudiobooksNow

The Review

What a fun and heartfelt read. The authors did a fantastic job capturing the story and the characters that made the first book so relatable while providing new challenges that reflect the problems many people face in their youth, especially when juggling real life with athletics. The realistic descriptions and imagery in the author’s writing style were memorable and vividly ingrained the reader in these characters’ lives.

Much like book one, the second book in the series perfectly balanced rich and dynamic character development with personal themes that many readers can relate to. The themes of friendship, teamwork, and finding balance were well represented, and the characters were memorable and relatable. The entrepreneurial spirit that the protagonist and her friends showed in their new pet-friendly business and the struggles with acceptance and even early relationships with others in school will be something so many readers will respond to favorably. 

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The Verdict

Heartfelt, evenly paced, and entertaining, authors Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence’s “Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect” is a must-read children’s and middle grade coming-of-age story. The ability for young readers and parents alike to see themselves in the shoes of these characters and the struggles they faced in their youth will resonate with so many and keep readers eager for more in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Authors

Ben is the owner and writer for Author Services Australia, while also working at Indie Publishing Group Inc.

Ben Jackson was born in Tasmania, Australia, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for over four years. Ben owns and manages a self-publishing company, Author Services Australia, which helps Australian authors self-publish their books. 

Ben is married to Sam Lawrence, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada. Ben is also a freelance writer that specializes in writing website content for businesses and a wide variety of different articles. They have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart, Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books.

Owner and head formatter at Indie Publishing Group Inc.

Sam Lawrence was born and raised in Ontario, Canada, and has traveled extensively in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. She founded and operated a self-publishing company, Indie Publishing Group Inc., specializing in helping indie authors self-publish their books. She grew up playing hockey and still plays in a recreational league. Sam is the proud mother of two boys and one girl and enjoys volunteering with the London Lacrosse Association.

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Interview with Author Glenda Benevides 

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

I’m a lifelong artist and GRAMMY®-nominated singer-songwriter who has spent years touring the world, recording music, and connecting with audiences through performance. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been writing—not just songs, but stories woven with meaning. Lyricism was my first language of expression, born from a deep desire to uplift, inspire, and reflect the human experience.

My transition into writing books was a surprising evolution. I was wondering if my experiences were valuable and supportive to others. So, I began putting pen to page in a outline as a way to offer deeper introspection—sharing hard-won insights, soul reflections, and lessons on courage, confidence, self-expression, and the power of finding your voice. Writing became another stage, another kind of performance—this time to let others know they matter, they’re powerful, and their dreams are more than possible… they’re sacred and important.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

As a singer songwriter, I’ve always expressed myself through music, doing my own internal transformational work and just listening to people, but I found myself wondering: could the life lessons I’ve lived through, the trials I’ve overcome, and the wisdom I’ve gained offer something meaningful beyond the stage? That curiosity sparked the beginning of my journey into writing a book.

When I looked back at my own path—from heartache to healing, frustration to clarity—I saw patterns. I realized that I had moved through life guided by five core principles: Clarity, Courage, Confidence, Commitment, and Community. These weren’t just abstract ideals—they were a sequence, a roadmap. And they were the very tools that helped me express my voice fully and rise above life’s  continued challenges.

I felt called to share that process in a way that was both intimate and practical—a teaching memoir that could serve as a companion for anyone seeking to express themselves more boldly and live more purposefully. My book is an invitation to claim your own voice, to find your fire, and to turn your dreams into reality—step by step, with grace and grit.

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

I hope readers walk away with the deep knowing that they matter—and that their voice, their dreams, and their truth are not only valid, but vital. Huge Value! You never know who’ll you’ll touch by being you! At its heart, this book is a call to action: to awaken the clarity within you, summon the courage to stand in your truth, and embrace the confidence to express yourself fully—no matter what the world says or throw’s at you.

It’s about reclaiming your power and remembering that you are the author of your own story. Through each chapter, I want readers to feel supported, seen, and equipped with practical steps they can use to break through limitations and move toward a life that is authentic, inspired, and fiercely free.

This book is more than words—it’s a mirror, a mentor, and a musical note echoing the anthem: You are enough. You are powerful. And your time is now. MUSIC UNITY ACTION is my theme – what is YOURS?

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4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I was drawn to this genre because it allows me to merge storytelling with soul work. As a singer-songwriter, I’ve always been in the business of truth-telling through emotion—turning life’s raw moments into lyrics that move people. Writing in the self-help/memoir genre felt like a natural extension of that same mission. Body, Mind and Spirit!

I didn’t want to just share my story—I wanted to offer something useful, something that could light the way for others on their own journey. This genre gave me the freedom to be vulnerable while also being practical and courageous. It let me blend personal experience with transformational tools that empower others to rise, to express, and to heal. To consider getting support to move through feeling stuck and to just ask. 

Ultimately, I chose this path because it reflects who I am at the core: an artist, a mentor, and a woman deeply committed to helping others find their voice and step into their power.

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

Honestly, while social media is a easy tool to stay visible and share updates, it’s live performance, interviews and real human connection that have truly built my readership and following. There’s something powerful and unforgettable about being in a room with people—sharing stories, music, and energy in real time. That’s where the magic happens. That’s where trust and resonance are born.

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been fine in keeping the conversation going and letting people see behind the scenes. But it’s the face-to-face, heart-to-heart moments that truly deepen connection and turn listeners or readers into lifelong supporters.

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

Just do it—leap! Don’t wait until you think you’re “ready” or everything is perfect, because the truth is, your voice is needed now. Writing isn’t about being flawless—it’s about being fearless in your authenticity.

Have fun with it. Let your curiosity lead the way. Most importantly, connect to the passion and purpose behind your words. When you fall in love with who you are and what you want to share, the writing becomes electric—it speaks, it sings, it resonates.

Trust that your story matters. Start where you are, write from the heart, and remember: every great author was once a beginner who decided to be brave.

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About the Author

Glenda the author, is celebrated for her motivational and empowering works, she has penned four impactful books: “Courage,” “Find Your Fire and Ignite Action in Your Life,” the e-book “Soul On Fire,” and “Own The Goddess Within.” Each book offers a unique blend of inspiration, practical advice, and deep introspection, guiding readers to discover their inner strength and ignite their passions. Additionally, the author has collaborated with visual artist DS Thornburg on “Grimoire of Lost Lore,” a captivating fusion of evocative storytelling and mesmerizing visuals, further showcasing their versatile creativity and profound ability to inspire.

(Music.Unity.Action) GlendaBenevides.com  Musician, Author, Altruist