Book Title: Fast Times, Big City by Shelly Frome Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 284 pages Genre: Historcal Escapade, Crime Fiction Publisher: BQB Publishing Release date: March 2024 Content Rating: PG. My book is rated PG for the times some of the mob characters utter mild curse words
Book Title: THE UNEXPECTED HEIRESS by George Mallory Category: Adult Fiction (18+), 347 pages Genre: Jewish Literature, Jewish Fiction, Saga Fiction Publisher: GM Publications Release date: April 29, 2024 Formats Available for Review: print (print - softback / USA), ebook (EPUB, PDF) Tour dates: Feb 24 to Mar 14, 2025 Content Rating: PG-13 +M due to scenes of war and other adult issues and subject..
PRAISE FOR THE UNEXPECTED HEIRESS
'"Hollywood will come calling!" - Kate Mc Clymont, Chief Investigative Reporter, The Sydney Morning Herald
"The Unexpected Heiress transcends time and weaves horrors from World War II with present-day challenges. From Abe's harrowing past to Ellie's contemporary struggles, an embittered brother, a vacuous globetrotting socialite mother, and the betrayal of a much-loved kid brother, the novel paints a vivid portrait of a family divided by loyalties, lies and the enduring power of love...this novel shines a light on what it is like to come from a family legacy and have that legacy fall on your shoulders, and the need to fight to keep it." - The Book Muse
'The human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity takes centre stage in The Unexpected Heiress.' - Australian Book Lovers
"George writes with passion, honesty and grace. Lots of charismatic, creative and realistic characters and scenarios." - Happy Valley Books
Book Description: She inherited a legacy of ambition, betrayal, longing and secrets.
In the shadow of Poisson Gold, a multi-billion-dollar gold mine conglomerate, a family's legacy unravels in a compelling tale that dives deep into the human psyche.
At the helm of this empire stands the enigmatic Abe Silver, a concentration camp survivor whose past holds secrets as complex as his fortune. With his health failing, Abe's last-minute will alters the course of history, leaving his daughter Ellie, a newly minted lawyer, to navigate a treacherous path to control the colossal riches.
As grieving Ellie grapples with the immense responsibility thrust upon her, she must confront not only the malignant opposition of her own family and the rigid glass ceiling, but also her deeply buried secret - her sexuality. Set against the backdrop of 2010, a time when LGBTQ+ acceptance was scarce, Ellie's struggle to reconcile her personal truth with her public facade adds an extra layer of complexity to this riveting narrative.
George Mallory's literary journey is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. Born in Serbia to Russian parents and raised in Australia, his multicultural background offers a unique perspective that enriches the tapestry of his narratives. From his early years at Lithgow High to pursuing an engineering degree at UNSW in Sydney, George's academic journey laid the foundation for his literary pursuits. His love for literature, kindled in childhood, eventually led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts at Sydney University.
In The Unexpected Heiress, he brings to life a character inspired by the untold stories of concentration camp survivors who amassed wealth. Through dual-perspective narratives, George weaves themes of corporate glass ceiling, sexual orientation and dysfunctional families, offering readers a compelling and thought-provoking reading experience. George's extensive corporate background sensitised him to social prejudices and discrimination. His novels reflect his commitment to shedding light on these issues while delivering engaging stories. He features determined women who defy societal norms, demonstrating resilience and determination while retaining their femininity.
The Unexpected Heiress: A Family Saga From Concentration Camp to Gold Mining Empire is a great debut for author, George Mallory. After reading the blurb, I was curious to see what this saga was all about. I have to admit, it was rather slow at the beginning but after getting through the first few chapters, I was intrigued. I enjoyed getting to know this wealthy family and learning how they became to be. It covers the horrific events from the past all the way to the present times. I believe there will be readers who will be able to understand the family dynamics within the pages and feel a sense of understanding and connection. There was some suspense as lies and secrets are uncovered. I wanted to keep on turning the pages to find out how it would all end for all of the characters. I was not disappointed.
I am going to give The Unexpected Heiress: A Family Saga From Concentration Camp to Gold Mining Empire four and a half stars. I believe fans of Jewish and Saga Fiction will want to pick it up and give it a read for themselves. I would be curious to read more like this from George Mallory in the near future.
I received a paperback copy of George Mallory's The Unexpected Heiress: A Family Saga From Concentration Camp to Gold Mining Empire from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Book Title: The Breaks (a Novel) by Ellen Barker Category: Adult Fiction (18+), 310 pages Genre: Literary Novel Publisher: She Writes Press Release date: February 2025 Content Rating: PG-13 +M: I'm not sure if this book should be PG-13 or PG-13+M. The book contains little profanity, no sex or violence, and no abortion, suicide, adultery, sexual or physical abuse. It does deal with wrongful conviction and women leaving prison, which may be unsuitable for under 13.
Book Description: Waking up in the emergency room with a broken arm was not one of the ways Marianne imagined her first date with Carl, if it is a date, ending up. Nor was driving up to the entrance of a women’s prison a few weeks later anywhere on her radar. But here she is. At least I’m on this side of the gate. She picks up newly released Stephanie, as a favor to a nun she barely knows, returns to her East of Troost home, and finds herself immersed in a whole new drama.
East of Troost is Marianne’s childhood neighborhood, downtrodden by decades of redlining and a wide swath of destruction to make way for an expressway. Marianne moved back there after a reversal of fortune limited her options. She’s had to repair the house and deal with a couple of “incidents” – hence her acquaintance with Officer Carl.
Meanwhile, Sister Colette has bought the house behind her and is taking in women who, in her words, need to learn to “just live.” As Stephanie helps Marianne cope with her broken arm, she gradually comes out of her shell and teaches Marianne a thing or two about "just living."
Ellen Barker grew up in Kansas City during a period of demographic upheaval, and she returns there in her novels. She has a bachelor’s degree in urban studies from Washington University in Saint Louis, where she developed a passion for how cities work, and don’t. She began her career as an urban planner, then spent many years working for large consulting firms, first as a writer-editor and later managing large data systems. Her volunteer work involves years of pet-assisted therapy with children in “the system,” both foster care and prison. She is the author of East of Troost, which introduced readers to the neighborhood where The Breaks takes place, and Still Needs Work, which takes place in the same area. She now lives in Los Altos, California, with her husband and their German shepherd, Boris, who is the inspiration for the dog in this novel.
The Breaks: A Novel is another wonderful novel by Ellen Barker. I can say enough at how much I loved meeting and getting to know the main character, Marianne. She is learning to navigate a "new life" after being dealt with some hardships on the past. As I read on, I was introduced to new friends and neighbors that I felt like I was, also, part of their world. This story was heartwarming to read that made me laugh out loud at times. I loved learning along the way with Marianne of how being resilient, being true to herself, living life to the fullest, and embracing friendships. It was uplifting and inspiring to me and good reminder for myself. I admired her strength and courage as a single woman. I loved every single page of her story and had no problem reading it cover to cover in one sitting. I thought it was an overall fun and entertaining tale.
The Breaks: A Novel will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read Women's Literary Fiction. I would love, love, love to read more by the talented author, Ellen Barker, in the near future. This one is most definitely not one to be missed.
I received a paperback copy of Ellen Barker's The Breaks: A Novel from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Book Title: Grammie And Pupa's House by Daisy Butterfield Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 3-12), 72 pages Genre: Children's Fiction Publisher: Daisy Butterfield Press Release date: September 30, 2024 Formats Available for Review: print-softback (USA and Canada) and ebook (EPUB, PDF) Tour dates: Nov 18 to Dec 13, 2024 Content Rating: G:The story follows Daisy during an afternoon at her grandparents house making snacks, planting the garden, playing cards, and enjoying the warmth and love of her grandparents.
Book Description:
Welcome to Grammie and Pupa's House! The door is always open and everyone is welcome in as the smell of fresh baked pies and cookies lingers in the kitchen air. So, pour a cup of tea and sit down and relax. It is my pleasure to share with you a day in the life of Grammie and Pupa as seen through the eyes of their granddaughter, Daisy.
I was born in a small New England town. Growing up I lived just two houses away from my grandparents, and spent countless days hanging out with Grammie and Pupa playing games and gardening. I loved flowers, and still do. I would roam the fields picking wild Lupine, Queen Anne's Lace, and, of course, Daisies. This book is a legacy to my grandparents, a way of saying thank you for the sweet memories. May you make sweet memories with your little ones as you read this book with them.
Grammie and Pupa's House is a sweet children's book by Daisy Butterfield. It tells the sweet story of seeing through a granddaughter's eyes of spending time with her grandparents, Grammie and Pupa, at their house. I loved their relationship and learning the lessons with Daisy along the way. It was fun to see what she experiences, such as, cooking with Grammie, or spending outdoors with Pupa. It shows how important for grandchildren to spend time with their grandparents, as well as, grandparents taking the time for their grandchildren.
Grammie and Pupa's House is illustrated by the talented artist, Justin Wayoro. The pictures are so vividly colorful, beautiful and appealing to the eye. I believe they are a perfect addition to the book. A great way to hold the youngest of readers' attention all throughout.
I am giving Grammie and Pupa's House five stars. I highly recommend it for readers between the ages of four and twelve years old. It would, also, be great for grandparents to read so they can see how important and special it is for grandchild to spend time with them. I think it should be on the shelves of public libraries and be shared again and again. I would love to read more by author, Daisy Butterfield, in the future.
I received a hard cover copy of Daisy Butterfield's Grammie and Pupa's House from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Book Title: DANGEROUS PURSUIT by Bethany Rosa Category: Adult Fiction (18+), 286 pages Genre: Contemporary Romance Publisher: Gallatin Publishing Release date: October 2024 Formats Available for Review: print (print - softback), ebook (EPUB, PDF, BookFunnel Download) Tour dates: Nov 18 to Dec 13, 2024 Content Rating: R for multiple explicit sex scenes and bad language.
Book Description:
Mia Nightingale Marcos is more nightmare than nightingale.
I’m handed the reins to the family business along with an inexperienced assistant barely out of high school. Not to mention, she’s distractingly beautiful and completely off-limits. I plan to be so unbearable she’ll quit, but she’s tougher than she looks. Now she appears to be hiding something and the deeper I dig, the more invested I become, causing my world to spin.
Just when I think I’ve got her figured out, she vanishes, leaving a trail of unanswered questions, sending me on a dangerous pursuit.
Jackson Soloman is the boss from hell.
But I can handle him. Balancing work by day and poker by night was a breeze until Jackson stepped in. It was easier when he was making my life hell, not trying to play hero. Now, I can’t shake him off, and with the growing attraction between us, I’m not sure I want to.
Just when I think I’ve hit the jackpot, I’m forced to fold, leaving everything behind for a chance at salvation.
Will Mia and Jackson survive the trials of deceit and danger that lie ahead? In a heart-wrenching climax that tests their love and commitment, every decision could be their last bet.
Bethany Rosa has been passionate about romance since her teenage years. After raising four wonderful daughters, she embarked on a writing career, channeling her love for the genre into crafting captivating stories. Bethany enjoys creating sexy tales featuring alpha males who fall for strong, independent women, making the chase irresistible. Besides writing, she loves to travel, especially to visit her two (soon to be three) daughters living in Europe. When not globetrotting, she enjoys time at home with her husband, dividing her days between the serene mountains of Montana and the sunny landscapes of Arizona.
I enjoyed reading the first book from The Pursuit series by Bethany Rosa, Pursuit of Innocence. I was curious to see what happens in the second installment, Dangerous Pursuit. Even though it is part of a series, I believe that it can easily be read as a stand alone. However, I do not think the first book should be missed. I have to admit that I am not normally a romance reader with detailed scenes that are explicit, but I am glad I did not miss out on reading this story. Since the spicier scenes are not for me, I did choose to skip over them. The storyline itself was fabulous. It had a great mix of drama, action, suspense, mystery, danger, and adventure with twists and turns that I was not expecting. Mia and Jackson had good chemistry together and their interactions were entertaining at times. I wanted to keep reading to find out what would become between the two. An overall good read.
I am going to give Dangerous Pursuit three and a half stars. I believe fans of romantic fiction, particularly that are on the more detailed with the steamy sex scenes, would greatly enjoy it. I would be interested to see what happens next in the third installment from The Pursuit series, The Pursuit of Love.
I received a digital copy of Bethany Rosa's Dangerous Pursuit from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Book Title: CROSSING DAY by William A. Glass Category: Adult Fiction (18+), 266 pages Genre: Thriller Publisher: William A. Glass, Author LLC Release date: May 2024 Formats Available for Review: (print - softback / USA and Canada) and e-book (Gifted Kindle and PDF) Tour dates: Nov 12 to Dec 9, 2024 Content Rating: PG-13for a couple of violent episodes. There is no explicit sex. The novel contains only mild profanity.
An early reader said Crossing Day "is like a combination of Huckleberry Finn, Moby Dick, and The Hunger Games." Another reader called it, "an action-packed thriller."
Book Description:
It's been one hundred and sixty years since the Confederacy won its independence at the Battle of Altamaha Crossing. Slaves of African descent still perform most of the work in the South. This seems normal to Ryan Walters and his friends who attend high school in Huntsville, Alabama. Like teens everywhere, they enjoy sharing videos, playing sports, and hanging out with friends.
Jaybird's Drive-In is a favorite gathering place for the teenagers. There, they befriend Mish, a slave girl who works as a server. When the restaurant’s owner sells Mish to a dirty old man, Ryan and his friends awaken to the injustice around them. Despite the danger, they decide to help Mish escape. Will they succeed?
William Glass is a retired business executive, now coaching soccer at a small college in rural South Carolina. He began writing to pass the time on road trips.
William is married to Bettina Linden, a retired high school German teacher. They have three grown sons who have all moved away to pursue careers. Now, several rescued dogs and cats keep them company.
Crossing Day is yet another great novel by the talented author, William A Glass. I have read his previous books and jumped at the chance to read this new release. I was not disappointed and found it to be my favorite he has written so far. I admire the author's use of his imagination to bring out such a thought provoking tale. I thought the plot was uniquely written that I found to be refreshing to read. It explores many aspects of the lasting affects of history in the United States and deals a lot of "what ifs" or "what could have happened". I love the theme of fighting for injustice and freedom among the group of friends. I did not find it was a long read and it was easy to continue to turn the pages and not put down until I was completely finished. A perfect way to take a break from the stresses of life for a bit.
Crossing Day will be getting five plus stars from me. I highly recommend it for teen readers or older who enjoy reading a mix of clean Historical Fiction and Thrillers. As always, I look forward to reading more releases from William A Glass to see where else he will take his characters and fans in the future.
I received a paperback copy of William A Glass' Crossing Day from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Book Title: How to Dream: A Motivational Guide to a Life of Hope Success and Freedom by Deedee Cummings Category: Adult Non-Fiction (18+) , 150 pages Genre: Inspirational/ Self-Help Publisher: Make A Way Media Release date: October 1, 2024 Format available for review: print-softback (USA), ebook (PDF) Tour dates: Oct 28 to Nov 22, 2024 Content Rating: PG. Just a couple words you can't say in school- no f-bombs
Book Description:
How do you dream in a world that actively crushes dreams?
Everything you’ve been told about dreams is wrong. Our dreams have been hijacked. Dreams aren’t just fanciful thoughts; dreams are the very reason we’re here. Yet, we’re constantly told they’re impractical, a waste of time. How to Dream, by best-selling author, therapist, and entrepreneur Deedee Cummings, is your guide to reclaiming the power of your dreams.
In this inspiring and practical book, Deedee uses her expertise and the art of storytelling to help you turn your dreams into reality. Whether you're just getting started or are well on your way, How to Dream offers doable steps and momentous mindset shifts that will make you unstoppable.
Drawing from her own journey and years of experience helping others achieve their goals, you will learn:
Practical strategies to overcome self-doubt in a world filled with rampant negativity
Powerful affirmations to fuel your success
Actionable steps to put your dreams in motion
Techniques to develop a growth mindset and become unstoppable
Packed with affirmations, strategies, and practical advice, How to Dream is the essential toolkit for anyone ready to take their life to the next level. If you're struggling to find direction, seeking to reignite your ambition, or need encouragement to stay the course, this book will inspire you to dream bigger, push harder, find freedom, and create the life you've always imagined.
Don't let another day pass without pursuing your true potential. It's time to make your dreams a reality—starting now.
Deedee Cummings is a professional dreamer. She is also an author of eighteen books, therapist, attorney, and mom from Louisville, Kentucky.
Cummings founded Make A Way Media in 2014 after struggling to find books with characters who looked like her own children and an extreme lack of stories that reflected their life experiences. Books published by Make A Way focus on hope, diversity, social justice, and therapeutic skills for children and adults. Her work has been featured in HuffPost, Forbes, NPR, USA Today, Essence Magazine, Psych Central, Well+Good, and The EveryGirl, among other media outlets.
In 2021, she was appointed to the Kentucky Early Childhood Advisory Council by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear acknowledging her decades long service to the children and families of Kentucky.
Deedee is also the founder of The Louisville Book Festival which celebrates its fifth year in 2024 and hosts over 150 authors and presenters from all over the country. She was inspired to work to highlight and celebrate a culture of reading in her community after working as an in-home therapist and visiting homes of children who had no books.
Cummings believes literacy is a fundamental human right. Her work highlights inspiring messages that remind us all it is never too late to begin again. She is currently working to adapt her latest children’s series inspired by the life of her daughter, Kayla Pecchioni (a Broadway actress) to a Broadway musical. Deedee recently founded the Make A Way Mindset program to teach the unshakable mindset she has developed as an entrepreneur of thirty years.
Her next book is her first book written for adults called How to Dream and will be released in October 2024.
I have read many Deedee Cummings' children's books and was pleasantly surprised to find that she has written a self help book for adults. I found How to Dream: A Motivational Guide to a Life of Hope, Success, and Freedom to be the encouragement I have been needing for awhile. It is broken down into ten chapters with each chapter includes: sayings from well known celebrities, commentary, questions to be answered with lines provided, advice, tips, and many inspiring quotes. My favorite part of the book was the one page, large font sized quotes. They definitely popped out the most and made me think. One being, "Growth is motion. Working on your mind is an important part of putting your dream in motion." Another one, "If you are reading these words, take this as your sign from the universe that you were destined to live a big life filled with big dream." These two quotes really resonated with me. I have been working on my own growth as a person and giving myself more positively, while finding my own dreams.
I am giving How to Dream: A Motivational Guide to a Life of Hope, Success, and Freedom a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read inspiring self help books. I would love to read more like this from Deedee Cummings in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Deedee Cummings' How to Dream: A Motivational Guide to a Life of Hope, Success, and Freedom from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Join Us for This Tour from October 7to October 25, 2024
Book Details:
Book Title: Sometimes When I'm Jealous by Deborah Serani, Psy.D Category: Children's Non-Fiction (Ages 3-7), 40 pages Genre: Children's Picture Book Publisher: Free Spirit Publishing Release date: September 2024 Formats Available for Review: print-hardback USA, PDF Tour dates: October 7 to October 25, 2024 Content Rating: G. Rated G.
Book Description: Sometimes When I'm Jealous helps young children work through the complicated emotions of jealousy. As with other books in the "Sometimes When" series, Dr. Deborah Serani, Psy.D, grounds every page in research with gentle prose, while illustrator Kyra Teis brings textured illustrations to deepen the reading experience. A special section at the back of the book provides more information and tips for adults to help little ones work through the jealous feelings.
Meet the Author: Deborah Serani, Psy.D. is psychologist in practice over 30 years. She is an award-winning author of numerous books on the subject of psychology. She is also a senior professor at Adelphi University.
Sometimes When I'm Jealous is part of the Sometimes When series by Deborah Serani, Psy.D. It tells about a little boy that has a problem with jealousy in variety of ways. I liked how it teaches that it can be normal to be jealous, but, also, shows that it is okay. At the end, I liked that there are useful resources, information, and tips for parents or guardians to help children and toddlers cope with jealousy. I loved that this book deals with a young one's emotions and helps them find ways to feel better.
Sometimes When I'm Jealous is beautifully illustrated by artist Kyra Teis. The pictures are visually appealing and perfectly go along with the book. I loved the colorful pages as I continued to turn them. I thought the illustrations were a perfect addition to the book and help with the flow.
I am going to give Sometimes When I'm Jealous a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it of readers who are between the ages of four and eight years old. I think it would be a great book to put on the shelves in elementary school libraries and or classrooms, as well as, public libraries. I would love to read the other books from the Sometimes When series.
I received a hard cover copy of Deborah Serani, Psy.D's Sometimes When I'm Jealous from the publisher, but waws not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
Book Title: WHO SAVED WHO by Roslyn Cohn Category: Adult Non-Fiction (18+), 151 pages Genre: memoir Publisher: Amazon Release date:November 2023 Format available for review: print-softback (USA only); ebook (GIFTED KINDLE (available only via Amazon.com), EPUB, PDF). Tour dates: Oct 7 to Oct 25, 2024 Content Rating: PG-13: The author uses the F-Word.
Book Description:
Growing up in beautiful Bohemian 1970s Marin County, the daughter of a funny pawnbroker-jeweler with vision who knew the streets and a warm, independent Mom turned Naturalist-Animal Rights Activist, Roz is an award winning actress who spent 20 years in NYC where she worked on stages from the size of a postage stamp to Broadway. She left NYC and relocated to Los Angeles striving for work in TV and Film and, more importantly, to be closer to her Marin folks. Roz takes us on a quick re-cap of the next 20 years, drawing us into her journey of 2022 full of desperate twists where she didn’t feel there was much purpose left to her life, to the messages from The Other Side and an ultimate life affirming turn that will warm your heart.
Who Saved Who is a book for the dog lover in all of us with the purpose of getting them out of Shelters and into your loving homes. It’s a book you will get a kick out of, possibly recognize parts of your own journey in loving dogs and in finding her own ultimate higher mission. It’s a an utterly enjoyable, captivating, and moving read told through words, pictures and video.
Roslyn Cohn is an actress who has worked from stages the size of a postage stamp to Broadway with the likes of Tony Randall, Jack Klugman, Jerry Stiller, Ellen Greene, and Julie Hagerty, as well as appeared in TV, film, and commercials. Roz has won awards in Intimate Theatre (known as 99 Seat) in Los Angeles; awards for her Short “Essential Tremors” about her neurological disorder; and in 2013, with Jake Anthony and Joshua Finkel, co-wrote and stars in the groundbreaking, Broadway World Award-nominated “diffiCult to leave,” about her 23 years in the Cult of Scientology. The entire show lives on her YouTube channel: RoslynCohn. You can visit her at: www.RoslynCohn.com. #WhoSavedWho #ShelterDogsRock #AdoptDontShop
It is no secret, I am a huge dog lover. When I learned about Roslyn Cohn's Who Saved Who, I wanted to find out what was behind this true story. The author, known as Roz, writes an inspiring tale of love, heartache, overcoming, hope, and healing. I loved how she was able to share life lessons she had learned along the way. Including some good ones that are great reminders too. It was a nice touch seeing the many colorful pictures of various canine friends. The book was one that brought out a variety of emotions out of me. On one page, I could be smiling or giggling, or I could be tearing up and needing a box of tissues, on the next. I thought it was an overall heartwarming story of unconditional love that, also, brought awareness and importance of rescuing our sweet dog companions. They can bring so much joy that can help us through some of the hardest events in our lives.
I am going to give Who Saved Who a very well deserved five plus stars. I believe readers who are animals lovers will greatly enjoy getting their hands on this memoir. I would love to read more from and about Roslyn Cohn in the near future. This one should not be missed.
I received a paperback copy of Roslyn Cohn's Who Saved Who from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
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