Sandra C. Lopez's Blog, page 123
August 3, 2023
Blog Tour: CHAINED REACTION by Shiloh Love
Chained Reaction
by Shiloh Love
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GENRE: Contemporary RomanticSuspense
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BLURB:
Love is just a link away.
Onebad mistake sparks a chain reaction of terror for two innocent people.
Whena registered nurse is blackmailed into helping two coworkers commit a crime,she never expects to find love. With her career on the line, the last thingCamille needs is romantic entanglement that will most likely lead to heartbreakif a secret from her past goes public. She just wants to end the nightmare andreturn to her job.
Lightsout for billionaire Trenton Shade upon helping a lady in distress. He wakeshours later chained to an antique barber chair in the middle of nowhere. Thenurse caring for him seems too kind to be an abductor. Her cohorts on the otherhand, paint quite a different scenario. Plummeted into a dangerous situation,he reaches out to the only possible helping hand.
Cantwo victims of evil intent escape the clutches of a crazed pair of women drivenby greed? Even if Camille and Shade make it out alive, will the bond formedduring captivity lead to a future together?
Thereare some wounds even the most powerful love cannot heal.
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EXCERPT
Time dragged on. No windows, fans or air conditioning. Sweattrickled down his face and back, soaking his shirt. His hair felt wet. He triedto move every so often to ease the agony of his body pinned yet again to animmovable object. But mostly, he remained still with eyes closed to conserve energy.
Now and then, he’d open his eyes to steal a look around.Joan sat subdued. Missy appeared tired yet was holding her own. Dale seemededgy, constantly checking the time then watching the door.
Who the hell are they waiting for? Shade leaned his headback against the steel pole and tried to keep his thoughts under control,struggling to not imagine the worst for Camille.
Suddenly, after two hours, everyone leapt to attention atthe sound of approaching footsteps. Shade opened his eyes but didn’t bother tolift his head until one of the most beautiful women he’d ever seen strolledthrough the door.
She stood tall for a female with a slender build and finelychiseled features. Long straight black hair trailed down her back, held off herface by a wide fabric headband wrapped over the top of her head then down pasther ears and underneath the back of her long mane. She was dark complected, buthe couldn’t discern her ethnicity.
“Malika, it’s an honor to see you again,” Dale bowedslightly at the waist upon greeting her.
Her gaze swept the room. She made direct visual contact withShade. He stared back into big dark eyes.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Shiloh Love isa fan of happily ever after. Her novels are too!
Shiloh enjoyscreating romance, paranormal romance, and romantic suspense stories with agritty flair. Her stories are her own, and she typically writes outside thebox. She’s always been a leader not a follower. Writing is her mental filterand how she processes the world around her, a fictional place where she cancontrol the outcome at her comfort level with justice and happy endings. Herimagination is her greatest strength as it carries her away from daily stress.
As a survivorof hardship and chronic disease, she takes one day at a time and treasures thesimple things in life. Shiloh is a Christian, loves animals, and practicesbeing kind and generous every day. When not immersed in new stories, she enjoyswatching movies, Motocross and Supercross, playing Yahtzee with her fiancé, andhanging out with her loyal 24/7 companion and trained service dog. She’s not afan of sitcoms as they don’t offer enough mental stimulation. Losing herself inan intense story gives her brain the workout it needs to manage OCD, anxiety,depression, and stress.
Herachievements thus far include The Golden Wings Award for her debut novel TheSatellite, the UK Nobel Pin and Editor’s Choice Award for her poem The LonelyMan, numerous 5 Star Reviews from Fallen Angels Reviews, Coffee Time Romance,InD’tale Magazine, and Goodreads for retired and current novels. Her novelForever in Darkness was a RONE Awards Finalist. Chained Reaction received the5-star Crowned Heart from InD’tale Magazine.
Her quote is,“Writing is the only time I’m truly free.” She’s happiest when her intriguingcharacters come to life and steal her away into their worlds where anything ispossible.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Chained-Reaction-Shiloh-Love-ebook/dp/B0C77FC4DG
Barnes andNoble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/chained-reaction-shiloh-love/1138008774
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/chained-reaction-9
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1403777
Website: http://www.susanzoebella.com
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSusanZoe
https://www.instagram.com/authorsusanzoebella
https://twitter.com/AuthorSusanZoe
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GIVEAWAY
The author will be awarding a Kindle toa randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
August 2, 2023
Blog Tour: THE PATH OF CHAOS by Tom Haward
THE PATH OF CHAOS
by Tom Haward
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GENRE: DystopianAlternate History
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BLURB:
Itis the year 2030, and the Roman Empire never fell. Emperor Nero II rules halfthe world, but half the world is not enough for the unpredictable Emperor.
Britanniais a Roman outpost. London Bridge is lined with crucified bodies. The streetsare patrolled by soldiers in high-speed, horseless chariots. Nero viewsBritannia as a vital but fractious asset for his planned invasion of theRepublic of Indigenous America.
BoatmanKing was born out of rage. A rage that propels him to try and destroy theEmpire. He’s not alone: he leads clandestine rebels fighting to drive theEmpire from Britannia. These rebels are his weapon, which he hopes will obliterateNero and the entire Empire.
Rebellion,though, comes at a steep price. Olivia, Boatman’s wife, is caught and crucifiedon London Bridge by Nero’s son, Maximus, who is intent on flushing Boatman fromhiding.
Instead,Maximus draws Maverick ‘The Beast’ Kirabo, Boatman’s fearsomesecond-in-command, a champion gladiator who now fights for Rome’s dismay, nottheir entertainment.
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Excerpt One:
“Soldier Gallusand Soldier Marius, I need you to accompany me to my home.” Both soldierssaluted and followed Faust to his chariot. Faust climbed on and sat down at therear. Gallus remained standing whilst Marius fired the engine. The bulletproofglass roof closed over the soldiers’ heads and sealed the chariot. They spedoff away from London Bridge going south to Augustus Park where Faust’s housewas situated.
Within fifteenminutes Faust was striding through his front door, gun drawn and Gallus andMarius flanking. The town house had three floors, six bedrooms in total and anairy, open-plan ground floor. Each soldier took a floor and searched. Theyquickly cleared the rooms, finding no-one present and nothing out of theordinary to report.
They convenedin the kitchen, and Faust holstered his gun.
“Maybe we beatthem to it?” said Marius.
Faust gruntedand didn’t bother to respond. He knew something wasn’t right in the house butcould quite place it. He needed to walk through and check it off. He’d onlysearched the ground floor but something didn’t make sense.
“I need youboth to stand guard outside. Anyone so much as approaches the housesuspiciously I want you to shoot them. If anyone is allowed access to the housewithout my permission, I will crucify you both upside down. Understand?”
Both men noddedand saluted and left the house to take sentry out the front.
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Please describe a pivotal scene in yourbook and why it's important.
The Path of Chaos revolves around many different charactersperception of power and what makes that power so important. For some it’s simplyto have power for power’s sake; for others it’s so appear important in spite oftheir inadequacies; for one person in the novel power is a gateway to escape.
That’s where Titus comes in. Titus is the Commander ofBritannia, that is, he’s the General overseeing Roman occupation of thecountry. He hates London though. He believed his posting was going to propelhim to something much greater in the Empire but instead he feels trapped by aplace he sees as dreary and uninspiring. With this in mind, Titus decided tobetray the Empire and seek to escape. Culmination of events makes Titus believe his life might be disposableanyway, so he decides to pre-empt any potential problems that might come hisway.
This moment in the book is important because it acts as acatalyst for other events but also highlights the chaos which whirls around thelives of most of the characters. Men and women who almost gravitate towardchaos and, in turn, create more chaos in their paths. Titus is the highestranking soldier in Britannia but feels the weight of his vulnerability when inthe presence of Emperor Nero II and this is, to me, really important tounderstanding the volatility of the world I have created, because it’s verysimilar to the world we currently inhabit.
Even though The Path of Chaos is filled with live streamedcrucifixions and guns and swords, the constant struggle for power that can soeasily be taken away is reminiscent of governments around the world. Titusbelieves he’s the most powerful man in Britannia but that appears to crumble inmoments for him and I feel that’s a key message in the book.
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Tom was born in Essex and at 4 months old he and his identicaltwin were adopted into an oyster farming family. Tom now runs the business asgeneration eight of Haward oyster farmers. He has a fiancée, baby daughter and a cockapoo.
Tom has an MA in Creative Writing and has loved telling storiessince he was a child, whether verbally or through prose.
The Path of Chaos is his debut novel. He is also working on a sixepisode comedy screenplay and tweets passionately about his family’s industryand the challenges it faces.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5350971.Tom_Haward
https://m.facebook.com/tomhawardauthor/
https://cinnabarmothliterarycollections.com/contributing_authors/tom-haward/
https://www.instagram.com/hawardtom/
https://www.amazon.com/Path-Chaos-Tom-Haward-ebook/dp/B0BVG8H9MY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0
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GIVEAWAY
Theauthor will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
July 31, 2023
Blog Tour: A VOICE OUT OF POVERTY by Jillian Haslam
A Voice Out of Poverty
by Jillian Haslam
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GENRE: Memoir
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BLURB:
A woman’s ascent from devastating poverty and childhood trauma tointernational standing as a prominent advocate for the poor and helpless.
Asa young girl, Jillian Haslam saved a life. Herself tiny and aching frommalnutrition, she stood for hours at a tea shop, begging for a ladle of milk totry and prevent her newborn sister from dying of starvation.
Fromthe slums of Calcutta to the executive floors of a global bank, A Voice out ofPoverty offers an unflinching look at one woman’s journey from destitution tosuccess.
Throughout,Haslam demonstrates an inexhaustible drive to rise above adversity and findbeacons of positivity in impossible circumstances. But her rise doesn’t stop atthe top; she returns to her roots again and again to extend a hand to thoseleft in the impoverished communities that she so narrowly escaped.
Britishby ancestry and born in India after its independence, Haslam and her family suffereddegradation and prejudice. They were forced to live on the streets, flee dangerin the middle of the night, and face persistent abuse and starvation.
Thistreacherous environment is the backdrop of an unlikely story of resilience andan unshakable family bond. From squalor and powerlessness, Haslam findscountless moments of grace, community, gratitude, and love.
AVoice out of Poverty is a raw and inspiring memoir that shows how beauty can befound in improbable places, and how “success” is not just the act of making itthrough. Rather, it is the act of reaching back to bring others with you.
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Excerpt One:
A bristly, grey rat jutted its head through a wide crack inthe peeling stucco wall, its long tail draped behind and hidden. It squintedits beady eyes and sniffed the air, as a light drizzle started to dampen theground.
A few feet away, an older homeless woman, sitting under aprecarious building canopy, shifted her eyes towards the rat, without movingher head. A stray dog nestled next to her, one of three gathered snuggly aroundher, bared its teeth, and growled at the rodent, without rising.
The woman swiveled her head in the rat’s direction andshooed it away with a claw-like hand slicing the air. The rat withdrew,vanishing inside the wall. The dog returned its head to rest on its paws andclosed its eyes.
The drizzle turned into a light rain.
My mother and I took in the rat scene side by side as weambled down the street. My eyes remained riveted on the homeless woman. Iwondered if she had a family or young children like me. Then, the noisy“pop-pop” of a Vespa flew near my eyes and broke my concentration, causing meto pull my head back abruptly. I gripped my mother’s hand as tightly as Icould.
The rain was now steady but not enough to flood the crowdedstreets or inhibit the pace of the fast-moving foot and vehicle traffic. Ilooked up to see an old man pulling a rickshaw coming towards us. I stared athim. His emaciated body looked as if his skin could peel off in thin layers,like a stale onion. He stared at me, sharing his single black tooth. I held mystare.
The rickshaw puller veered off the line of his path, forcinga dilapidated scooter that packed an entire family to swerve near us. Thescooter splashed mud onto my legs and dress, and I started to cry. My onlyproper dress was drenched with filth. I now would have to undress to underclotheswhile it got washed. My mother stopped and crouched in front of me. I didn’thide my disgust.
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GUEST POST
BLOG #4 If I’d never heard of me, would I read “A Voice Out ofPoverty”? 620 words
Hey there, folks! Today, I want tochat about my first book, "A Voice Out of Poverty," and whether I'dpick it up if I stumbled upon it without knowing anything about the author. So,let's dive in and see if it's a read I'd recommend!
First things first, the cover of"A Voice Out of Poverty" is pretty eye-catching. It's got thisvibrant mix of colors, with a young girl standing against a bustling citybackdrop. It immediately gives off a sense of hope and resilience, and I'm allabout that. Kudos to the book designer for nailing it!
As I flip open the book, I'm metwith a heartfelt introduction that sets the stage for the stories that follow.It's like an appetizer that makes you excited for the main course. The chaptersare divided into different stages of my life, starting from my childhood in alow-income neighborhood to my journey of overcoming obstacles and breaking freefrom the cycle of poverty.
Reading through these pages, Ican't help but feel a sense of vulnerability and authenticity. Each story islike a glimpse into my soul, sharing not only the hardships I faced but alsothe triumphs and lessons I learned along the way. I'm not gonna lie; it's arollercoaster of emotions. There are moments that will make you cry, laugh, andreflect on your own life.
The writing style in "A VoiceOut of Poverty" is conversational and relatable. I've always believed thatstories should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background oreducation. So, I've tried my best to keep the language simple anddown-to-earth. It's almost like we're having a chat over a cup of tea. No fancyjargon or complex sentence structures here—just raw, genuine storytelling.
Now, let's talk about the themesexplored in the book. Poverty is undoubtedly at the forefront, but it's notjust a pity party. I wanted to shed light on the systemic issues thatperpetuate poverty, but also showcase the resilience and strength ofindividuals who defy the odds. It's about hope, dreams, and the power ofdetermination. Throughout the book, I sprinkle in some practical advice andresources for those who may find themselves in similar situations, because Ibelieve in empowering others through knowledge.
Another aspect that stands out in"A Voice Out of Poverty" is the diversity of voices. It's not just mystory; it's a collective narrative of the people I've met along the way. Ishare their struggles, their dreams, and how their lives intersected with mine.By amplifying these voices, I hope to challenge stereotypes and encourageempathy.
As I reach the end of the book, Ifind myself feeling inspired and motivated. It's a reminder that no matterwhere you come from or what obstacles you face, you have the power to shapeyour own destiny. I share my successes and failures with the hope that it willresonate with readers and encourage them to pursue their own dreams fearlessly.
So, would I read "A Voice Outof Poverty" if I had never heard of me? Absolutely! Even if I say somyself. It's a captivating journey filled with real stories, heart, and a doseof inspiration. It's a book that celebrates the human spirit and reminds usthat no one should be defined by their circumstances.
If you're someone who lovesstories of resilience, overcoming adversity, and finding strength in the midstof struggle, then "A Voice Out of Poverty" might just be the perfectread for you. Give it a shot, and let me know what you think. Together, let'schange the narrative surrounding poverty and create a more inclusive world.
Until next time, Jillian Haslman
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Jillian Haslamwas born in 1970 and raised primarily in the slums of Calcutta. Despite thesevere devastation of her family’s living circumstances, she completed hereducation and landed her first major employment as a personal assistant to theCEO at Bank of America in India.
Jillian rosethrough the ranks, and Bank of America appointed her president of its Charityand Diversity Network in India, where she spearheaded charitable work in fourdifferent cities. This led her to receive three philanthropic awards from Bankof America: the Star Recognition award, the Service Excellence award, and TheIndividual Achievement award.
In 2011, shepublished the first version of her memoir, Indian. English, which chroniclesher life growing up amid dreadful poverty, abuse, and tragedy. The book soldover 150,000 copies, mostly while she was on the speaking circuit. Her storyalso incited interest from Hollywood and British film directors and producers,leading to the development of a feature film.
Charitablegiving became Jillian’s life work. In 2012, she received the first runner upaward for The Asian Woman of the Year in the “Social and Humanitarian”category. In early 2015, The Telegraph of Calcutta presented Jillian with theTrue Legend award for her exceptional contribution to social and humanitariancauses. In mid-2015, she was recognized as a finalist for the Role Model of theYear award for her work delivering speeches in educational institutes acrossthe UK. In late 2016, she received an award for Excellence in Humanitarianism.And, in 2017, she received her greatest accolade, the Mother Teresa MemorialInternational Award.
Jillian becamea speaker in demand and is a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM). She has deliveredseveral TEDx talks, among other prestigious speaking engagements, on varioustopics that flow from her life story. Jillian speaks on topics that includeentrepreneurialism, the power of the mind, and human resilience.
She has alsobeen featured on various TV networks, including Channel 5 and the BBC, and awide range of print media, including The Independent, The Pioneer, The Times,The Telegraph, The Metro, Gulf News, and other major media outlets. Jillian’scharitable work continues under the auspices of the Remedia Trust where she overseesseveral separate charities: Ageing Smiles (for the elderly poor), Happy Hearts(for children), Empowering Girls (for teaching various workable skills),India’s Disabled (for building a mobile medical unit), E3 Growth (focused oneducation, employment, and employability), and the Mother Teresa Project (forwomen and single mothers).
Jilliancurrently lives in London with her husband.
Connect withher here:
https://books2read.com/u/3JnzxK (allavailable buy links are here)
https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/58948875
https://www.facebook.com/jillian.haslam
https://www.facebook.com/IndianEnglishTheMovie
https://twitter.com/JillianHaslam
https://www.instagram.com/jillian.haslam/
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GIVEAWAY
One randomly chosen winner viarafflecopter will win a $25 Amazon/BN.com gift card.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Blast: MIDNIGHT RAPTURE by Anya Summers
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Anya Summers will award a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via Rafflecopter. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Rescued by a hot, kilt-wearing Scot…
Freya’s on the run from her abusive ex-boyfriend. She’s exhausted and terrified, but if she stops, she knows he’ll find her – and their infant daughter – and make her pay. Desperation drives her to do something she shouldn’t, that she knows is fundamentally wrong…
… and sure enough, she gets caught red-handed. All she can do is beg for mercy.
When Jasper catches the gorgeous new maid with her hand in his wallet, his first instinct is to call the police. But Freya’s tearful plea strikes a chord deep within him, and instead he finds himself offering her the protection of his name and family.
Their union is meant to be on paper only but Jasper soon finds himself enthralled by his new bride. He starts a campaign to seduce her into his bed, never expecting her to wiggle her way into his heart.
And when her past threatens her very existence, he will stop at nothing to keep her safe.
Fall headlong into this steamy, fake relationship, stand-alone romance between a fierce Scottish businessman and a single mother as they navigate the road of love with all its pitfalls
Read an Excerpt
Marry him? Was the guy clinically insane?
Who asked someone they’d just met to marry them? She’d tell you who did stuff like that—crazy people.
Holding Maddie close, Freya didn’t know what to think or how to feel about his offer. He was only a few years older than she, by her reckoning, maybe in his early thirties. He could be English, but with a name like Campbell would bet what cash she had left he was Scottish.
His voice was sex personified. His Scottish brogue in that sexy baritone made his words sound like a caress. And when he spoke, the potent vibrations shivered through her body down into her toes. A man like him was dangerous to her sensibilities. A hypothesis proven by that reckless kiss. And what a kiss! Her body still hummed with illicit desire.
But she had sworn long ago that she would never be taken in by a charming, handsome face again. She’d done that once.
Holding Maddie close in case she needed to make a break for it, she asked, “What’s your name?”
He cast an arched stare as he rounded the kitchen island and faced her. “Jasper Campbell, at your service. And who is this little lassie?” He nodded toward her daughter. Maddie stared at him in fascination. Like mother, like daughter. But it could just be she wasn’t used to being around men that much, and definitely not one this enormous.
“This is Maddie.” Freya said her name, and her daughter grinned like it was the funniest thing she’d ever heard.
“I’ve got a highchair in the pantry. Let me grab it, and we can set it by the table. And don’t think of leaving until we’ve finished discussing this matter. You try to leave before we’ve finished our negotiations, and I will call the authorities.”
She sucked in a breath at the threat. Rich people really were different. Only a guy who had never interacted with cops would call them the authorities. But she had no plans to leave just yet. Because she wanted to see if he was serious about his offer.
Did he really want to marry her for a year to gain his inheritance? Would he really buy her a house and give her twenty million dollars if she agreed?
About the Author:
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Anya grew up listening to Cardinals baseball and reading anything she could get her hands on. She remembers her mother saying if only she would read the right type of books instead of binging her way through the romance aisles at the bookstore, she’d have been a doctor. While Anya never did get that doctorate, she graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with an M.A. in History.Anya is a bestselling and award-winning author published in multiple fiction genres. She also writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and contemporary romance under the name Maggie Mae Gallagher. A total geek at her core, when she is not writing, she adores attending the latest comic con or spending time with her family. She currently lives in the Midwest with her two furry felines.
Website
Goodreads
Amazon Author Page
BookBub
Maggie Mae Gallagher website
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Nook
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a Rafflecopter giveaway
July 29, 2023
Review: THE BABYSITTER’S CLUB: BOY-CRAZY STACEY by Gale Galligan
Two weeks away from the club. Whatwill the girls do? Well, Stacey will be at the beach. Even though this wouldstill be a babysitting job, Stacey was determined to enjoy it. After all, therewas so much to see and do at Sea City. Loved the colorful illustrations and thephotogenic scenery. So tranquil and lovely.
Then one glance at the gorgeouslifeguard and Stacey was lovestruck. The exaggerated expressions on thesecharacters were just priceless!
Stacey was just so smitten. It wascute. She obviously had the impression that he was into her too. But what wouldhappen when the truth smacked her dead in the face? Heartbreak!
And what happens when one sitterends up doing more work than the other? Girl fight!
But, in the end, it all boileddown to a great beach vacation. A nice one!
Rating:4 stars
Review: THE BABYSITTER’S CLUB: KRISTY AND THE SNOBS by Chan Chau
Kristy just moved into theneighborhood and was in a battle with the snobs. To add to it, Kristy had tobabysit some rich, spoiled brats. Get me a soda. Ice. No ice. Grrr! Then youcall my dog a mutt?! Grrr! But, as part of The Babysitter’s Club, you have tobe nice to the clients.
Meanwhile, Kristy’s dog is gettingold and having problems. Poor vision, arthritis, and bladder issues. Oh no!
The illustrations were simplyenjoyable! A nice, heartwarming read about enemies and friends.
Rating:4 stars
July 28, 2023
Blog Tour: THE SCRIPT IS NOT ENOUGH by Jamison LoCascio
The Script is Not Enough
by Jamison LoCascio
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GENRE: Non-fiction (How-to)
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BLURB:
The Script is not Enough takes a unique look at the making of fourdifferent independent feature films. The author takes you through every stagein development from writing, to financing, and to distribution and marketing.Find out how you can learn from the hard experiences and challenges that facethe filmmaker along the way.
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Excerpt One:
Life and filmmaking do not often mix well
I offer a detailed look at my journey of making fourdifferent feature films for the brand-new filmmaker out there. I am trying towrite the book that I could have used in the very beginning. This is a bookabout what it means to be a filmmaker with little to no industry connections,“ins,” magic tricks, or otherwise.
My “rules,” which are in bold throughout the book,are just some things I keep in mind for myself. Based on my own experience readingbooks on making films, I want to try to avoid burying what is of value—theinformation—into a sort of “life story.” That’s boring.
It's very upsetting to see how many people sitaround talking about how they never got a chance to make a film in their life,and now they are married, divorced, single, too old, too young, too poor, toocomfortable…too anything besides “ready.” There are so many excuses not to makea film, so it’s best to just make one before your time’s up.
Life and filmmaking do not often mix well; you needto make movies and also live your life. “Life” and “Movies” are two separateand severe challenges. So, make movies and make life, even when everything isagainst you, and it certainly will be. A poignant moment of “The Empire StrikesBack” comes to mind…
“Are you afraid?” asks Yoda.
“No,” answers Luke Skywalker.
“You will be. You will be,” says Yoda, his eyeswidening, in a very creepy way.
Your first feature film is simply a difficult butattainable milestone. I now know now why that is. Lack of experience andopportunity to grow is more harmful to new feature film producers and directorsthan anything else. When you can try and fail at something, or succeedmoderately, you can grow, adapt, and overcome. The problem with making featurefilms is that many do not get a chance to ever make one or, even worse, theymake one and never get a chance to try again.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
JamisonLoCascio is an award-winning feature film director. In 2012, Jamison LoCasciobegan to write the screenplay for his first union short, "MidnightCatch," which garnished much acclaim at the New Jersey International FilmFestival and Manhattan Film Festival. LoCascio decided to form his productioncompany, Halcyon Valor Productions Incorporated. Graduated from Montclair StateUniversity with honors winning the “Excellence in Filmmaking” award for hisnumerous successful productions which premiered in film festivals around theworld. LoCasio's short films have since been honored by the Screen Actors Guildand screened at such festivals as the Los Angeles International Short FilmFestival, Montclair Film Festival, and NewFilmmakers New York. LoCascio'sshorts "Track 3," "A Stranger's Confession," and "Powerless"were all official selections of the Festival de Cannes Short Film Corner. Hisfilms have been anthologized in the prestigious Anthology Film Archives inManhattan, distributed worldwide on DVD, picked up for online distribution byFilm Bay. DIRECTV & AT&T distributed 6 of LoCascio's short films ontheir new International short film platform. LoCascio's first feature film,"The Depths," starring Michael Rispoli and Patch Darragh won BestFeature Film at the 2017 Manhattan Film Festival and had a strong criticalreception. The film also won Best Feature Film and Best Director at the 2017Los Angeles Film Awards and received domestic distribution with Sony Picturesand The Orchard releasing on all major platforms including Amazon, Itunes, DVDand more. LoCascio's second feature film "Sunset" starring acclaimedactor Austin Pendleton received rave reviews and won multiple awards includingBest Dramatic Feature Film at the 2018 Manhattan Film Festival, Best Ensembleat the 2018 Los Angeles Film Awards, Best Leading Actor (David Johnson)International Independent Film Awards. "Sunset" also receiveddomestic distribution with Sony Pictures and The Orchard. LoCascio and AdamAmbrosio have recently launched their latest initiative by filmmakers forfilmmakers called Film Valor, a youtube channel with over 3,000 worldwidefollowers and over 250,000 views, a behind the scenes look at their filmmakingprocess. "Know Fear," his latest feature film, received criticalacclaim and stars Amy Carlson. The film had a limited theatrical release. Hisnext feature film "How Dark They Prey," a unique horror anthology,has been released on major streaming platforms including Amazon Prime, Tubi,Plex, Udu, Mometu and many more with critics hailing the film as "Horrorat its best". His latest feature film release “7x7” is a collection ofmany of LoCascio’s award-winning short films brought together for one viewingexperience on major platforms including Tubi and Amazon Prime.
JamisonLoCascio’s Social Media Links: https://linktr.ee/filmvalor
Amazon BuyLink: https://www.amazon.com/Script-not-Enough-Jamison-LoCascio-ebook/dp/B0C3J9GDB2/ref=sr_1_1
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GIVEAWAY
Jamison LoCascio will be awarding a $10Amazon GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
July 27, 2023
Blog Tour: TO KINGDOM COME by Claudia Riess
To Kingdom Come
by Claudia Riess
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GENRE: Mystery
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BLURB:
Amateur sleuths, Erika Shawn-Wheatley, artmagazine editor, and Harrison Wheatley, art history professor, attend a Zoommeeting of individuals from around the globe whose common goal is to expeditethe return of African art looted during the colonial era. Olivia Chatham, amath instructor at London University, has just begun speaking about her recentfind, a journal penned by her great-granduncle, Andrew Barrett, active memberof the Royal Army Medical Service during England’s 1897 “punitive expedition”launched against the Kingdom of Benin.
Olivia is about to disclose what she hopes thesleuthing duo will bring to light, when the proceedings are disrupted by an unusualmovement in one of the squares on the grid. Frozen disbelief erupts into afrenzy of calls for help as the group, including the victim, watch in horrorthe enactment of a murder videotaped in real time.
It will not be the only murder or act of brutalityErika and Harrison encounter in their two-pronged effort to hunt down thesource of violence and unearth a cache of African treasures alluded to inBarrett’s journal.
Much of the action takes place in London, scene ofthe crimes and quest for redemption
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Excerpt One:
“Dammit!” A mild curse barely audible, but loud enough tolight up the frame around Timothy Thorpe’s image. “Sorry mates, bulb blew.” Theoverhead, it must have been, since the weaker source of light behind hiscomputer was still there, softening his features and maybe for a millisecondthe audience’s attentiveness as well, so that when the black line appeared justabove his shirt collar it took another blip in time for brains to sort it outand reject the idea of a shadow cast by his desk lamp. Which would explain thesilence before the first scream, coming from somewhere in the Zoom’s mosaic, awoman’s scream—mine, Erika realized. Likewise, a delayed reaction from Timhimself, gazing wide-eyed at the screen as if someone out there wasexperiencing the horror, not he himself, that is, before the black cordtightened around his neck and the impossible truth contorted his features likea funhouse mirror.
And then the silence turned into the Tower of Babel,witnesses reverting to their native tongues, as gloved hands—surely visiblefrom the start!—tugged on the cord and disappeared behind Tim’s neck to knot orentwine or do whatever was planned or improvised to cut off Tim’s air, whileTim clawed at his neck in an attempt to free himself, mouth open in a parody ofMunch’s The Scream, except in Tim’s version it was a cry for help mimed to therestless viewers filling his computer screen, twinkling with their uselessbabble like Christmas lights.
“Où est-il—where is he?” Monsieur Robert Labeque cried, hisred cheeks deepening to scarlet, his returning to the group’s common tongue asign that rational interchange was being restored.
“The museum—his office at the British Museum!” Ike yelledback, as if calling from across a football field. “He said they’re preparing anexhibit, staying late—I’ve got their unlisted number—seeing if I can rouse thedamn security guards!” All the while fumbling with his cell phone. “They mustseal off the exits. Museum doesn’t close for another half hour!”
“Bastard, we see you!” Harrison shouted at the nondescripttorso, mostly hidden by Tim’s body, rigid against the chair-back while hishands flailed like a mad conductor’s. How many seconds had passed—ten, fifteen?A lifetime.
“Someone over there call 9-1-1—Olivia?”
“I’ve already put in the call—it’s 9-9-9 over here,” Oliviaadvised, her calmness, real or staged, a reminder that order was possible.
“I’m activating the recording option!” Ike bellowed.Shifting focus to his unresponsive phone, he shouted, “Hello? Hello?”
Harrison tapped on Thorpe’s name and spotlighted his square.Instantly it filled the screen. He dove for his cell phone. “Erika, takephotos!”
His words sounded harsh, except she was thinking the samething, already digging her cell phone out of her jeans pocket. “You video, I’lltake stills—oh God!” Outwardly, Tim had stopped struggling. But what washappening within? Her empathy was suddenly gripped by a primal curiosity, as ifonly by understanding Tim’s encounter with death could she prepare for herown.
“Go!” Harrison prompted.
The command cut off her connection to Tim like a droppedcall, and she aimed her cell’s lens at his motionless figure in the more usefulrole as witness to a crime. As she prepared for the second shot, she realizedthat others were following Harrison’s and her lead.
On screen the assailant’s gloved finger pressed againstTim’s neck, feeling for a pulse. Apparently satisfied, he or she swiftlyremoved the cord from around the victim’s neck and made adjustments to thedistribution of weight so that the body would not slump forward. Missionaccomplished, the individual glided out of Tim’s camera range, leaving Tim, injacket and neatly knotted tie, to stare blankly into space with only an angryred bruise above his shirt collar to suggest what had just happened to him.
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GUEST POST
What was the inspiration behind this story andthe characters?
Short answer: my ignorance. I was reading a news article on the growingconcern to expedite the return of African art and artifacts seized during thecolonial era. I knew next to nothingabout the subject and along with curiosity, I felt a moral obligation to learnabout it. The more I read, the moreinterested I became in having it become integral to my art history mysteryseries. It was a challenge, decidingwhat historical facts had to remain intact and what fictional elements mightintermingle with them without distorting their truths. In the prologue, for instance, I mentionspecific details about the actual attack on the Kingdom of Benin in 1897, butintroduce a character, Andrew Barrett, a medic in the British Royal ArmyMedical Service, who, though fictional, is consistent with the facts andcharacter of the time. Conversely, lateron in the book I introduce (briefly, and through exposition) activist EmeryMwazulu Diyabanza, the actual founder of The Movement for Unity, Dignity andCourage in 2014, and invent a conversation that he participated in, albeit onethat I believe would not have been out of character.
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Claudia Riess is an award-winning author of seven novels, four ofwhich form her art history mystery series published by Level Best Books. She has worked in the editorial departmentsof The New Yorker and Holt, Rinehart and Winston, and has edited several arthistory monographs. Stolen Light, thefirst book in her series, was chosen by Vassar’s Latin American historyprofessor for distribution to the college’s people-to-people trips toCuba. To Kingdom Come, the fourth andmost recent, will be added to the syllabus of a survey course on West andCentral African Art at a prominent Midwest university. Claudia has written a number of articles forMystery Readers Journal, Women’s National Book Association, and Mystery Scenemagazine. At present, she’s consultingwith her protagonists about a questionable plot twist in Chapter 9 of the duo’smurder investigation unfolding in book 5; working title: Dreaming of Monet,scheduled for release winter 2024. Formore about Riess and her work, visit www.claudiariessbooks.com.
All four books in the art history mystery series are availablethrough Amazon.com,BarnesandNoble.com,IndieBound.org and atindependent book stores. For bulk discount purchases, contact https://levelbestbooks.wordpress.com.
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GIVEAWAY :
Claudia Riess will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnesand Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveawayJuly 26, 2023
Blog Tour: SOMETHING TO HOLD ONTO by Ann Hajdu Hultberg
Something to Hold on To
by Ann Hajdu Hultberg
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GENRE: memoir/anthology
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BLURB:
In life we hold on to our faith, family, friends, our sense ofhumor, our memories, and our promises. As a child, it might be a make-believeworld. Sometimes it’s something physical like a prayer card or a twist tie, aschool bag or a rosary bead. Maybe it’s a photo. Everything we hold dear bringsus hope and comfort during both good and bad times.
Iwrite what I and others have held on to; I recount my experiences as a lateBaby Boomer raised in rural Pennsylvania, and most importantly, by a Hungarianfather, an immigrant, who escaped the Soviet Invasion in 1956.
Ihope that you the reader will connect to some of the stories and the things wehold on to.
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Excerpt One:
from “Mom’s Girdle”
Mom was always losing or fighting with her 18-hour Playtexgirdle. It seemed as if this contraption had a mind of its own, wanting to beseen, calling attention to itself, almost like a neon light flashing from a barwindow. The trampoline like material sucked in all the fat so clothes appearedsmooth and seamless without the ripples of excess pounds. From waist to upper knee, this apparatus waspopular with my mom in the 60s and 70s. Her belly was flattened and thighs weremade to look slimmer, something she said she needed after birthing four kids.These ghost white undergarments were a staple in mom’s underwear drawer.
The first time Mom lost a hold of her girdle was when shewas out shopping, and the elastic, which had been shriveling on the waist band,probably from its years of wear, let loose. Like a broken rubber band snappingoff a pony tail, the entire garment fell to her knees. Though in public, withmany eyes upon her, mom simply shimmied the girdle down to her ankles, like agirl slinking down a fashion show runway; she peeled it off her ankles, andwith a kick, tossed the girdle in the air like a spinning pizza crust. She grabbedat it and stuffed the undergarment in her purse as carefree as she would a wadof Kleenex. She continued on with her shopping.
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“Whatdo you hope readers will get from this book?”
First of all, my goal was to take what is personal forme and make it universal for my readers. I hope readers will connect to myexperiences or emotions relayed in these forty- some stories. Maybe you willthink back to your own childhood memories, or recipes your grandmother sharedwith you. Maybe you will dig out those old photographs and reminisce timesspent with siblings. Or find old letters you received from someone special. SomehowI hope this book touches you in a special way whether you are laughing orcrying.
What ishappening in Ukraine reminds me of what happened to my Dad growing up inBudapest, Hungary. Hungary was always occupied either by the Germans orRussians. Both wanted control of the country, as the Russians want control ofUkraine. In my book are included several stories about my dad’s escape fromHungary during the 1956 Uprising and his assimilation to the United States. Ithink readers will find his story fascinating that he was able to escape somuch danger and live to tell his story. Readers who have family or friends whomay have immigrated here to America might find interest in Dad’s stories too.
I am sure many of us have lost a parent, grandparent,family pet. All three losses are addressed in separate stories and how onecopes in the aftermath. In “Ashes to Ashes,” I write about the day we had toput down our 19 –year- old Shih Tzu. In “Cleaning my Grandmother’s Tombstone,”I reminisce my days with my Hungarian Grandma and the few years we had together.In “The Promise,” I describe my mother’s rare cancer and eventual death andanger at how badly she suffered. I asked why?
Laughter is the best medicine! And I hope my audiencechuckles when reading about the times my mom lost her girdle in “Mom’s Girdle.” Or the episode when, as a toddler, Icovered my dog in peanut butter, among other devilish things, in “TheImaginative Child.” Or when mydaughter’s then -boyfriend thought my husband and I were talking about Viagraat the dinner table when instead we were talking about the blue PM Tylenolpills in “A Case of Mistaken Identity.”
After reading “Hometown, “ I hope you appreciate yourown hometown for its beauty, people, buildings, surroundings. Sometimes we haveto leave and return in order to appreciate what we had.
If you have married off a child, you may resonate with”One Breath,” a story that deals with my daughter’s leaving the nest. Or if youhave ever raised a teenager, you will love “The Fun Sucker.” I recall thoseyoung teen years when I was deemed the enemy, according to my child.
All in all, I wanted my stories to be somehowuplifting, with positive outlooks, no matter the situation. I tried to find thegood in life, appreciating what we had.
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
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Ann HajduHultberg, born in Buffalo, New York, grew up in rural Bradford, Pennsylvania. Agraduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and St. Bonaventure University,Ann spent 34 years teaching English at Limestone, NY, and Allegany, NY, SchoolDistricts; she was also an adjunct college composition instructor and studentteacher supervisor at University of Pittsburgh at Bradford for 15 years. Sheand her husband split their time between Bradford and Naples, Florida, andvisiting with their daughter and son-in-law. Something To Hold On To is herdebut book.
Ann can befound on Facebook as Ann Hajdu Hultberg. Her Twitter handle is @HajduAnn andInstagram is annelizabeth59. https://www.facebook.com/ann.hultberg
Her book isavailable on:
Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Something-Hold-Ann-Hajdu-Hultberg/dp/1667856413/ref=sr_1_1
andBookbaby https://store.bookbaby.com/book/something-to-hold-on-to
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GIVEAWAY
Ann Hajdu Hultberg will be awarding a$15 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during thetour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
July 24, 2023
Blog Tour: THE FLAPPER, THE IMPOSTOR, AND THE STALKER by Charlene Bell Dietz
The Flapper, the Impostor, and the Stalker
by Charlene Bell Dietz
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GENRE: Mystery, Historical, Suspense Novel
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BLURB:
Aprivileged teenager from Minneapolis in 1923, scraps her college scholarshipand runs away to become a flapper in dangerous, chaotic Chicago. In her searchfor illusive happiness, she confronts the mob and then must contrive a way tonot be murdered.
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Excerpt One:
Kathleen continued, “You said you wished you could go tocollege with me. What if we could go somewhere together, not to college, butsomeplace where we could dance and act and you could sing? I bet with ourtalents, we could turn this horrid world into something much more joyful—helpmake it one big party.”
“How?” Sophie’s eyes opened wide.
“We’ll go where you won’t have to teach kids piano, or actor dance, unless you want. You’ll be able to sing your heart out and, whoknows, maybe even write your own songs.”
“My mother would never let me.” Sophie looked off into thenear distance.
“Sophie, we’ll get to wear sparkly dresses. And wouldn’t youlove to wear those modern, classy clothes? We’d bob our hair even shorter, wearlipstick, and be around people who know how to have fun and not have a care inthe world.” Sophie should see the photos in Kathleen’s collection of theatermagazines again. Then she’d be excited too.
“I’m sick of funerals and consoling others,” Kathleencontinued.
“Look at how miserable Dolly is. Aren’t you tired of thattoo? We’d be around progressive people, thinking people, people who know how tomake the most out of life. They’re searching for talent, Sophie. We’ll fitright in.”
“Where, Kathleen? No one much appreciates our abilities here.”
“Chicago. There are all sorts of openings for attractiveyoung ladies with well-turned ankles and voices like canaries. That’s whattheadvertisements say.”
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GUEST POST
Topic: Ifyou could have a chat with your main character, what would you talk about?
I’mgoing to have a chat with a young flapper, and I’m inviting you to join us. In1923, a sixteen- year-old, teenage flapper, Kathleen, protagonist of TheFlapper, the Impostor, and the Stalker, ran away from home in Minneapolisto kick up her heels as a dancer in wild and roaring Chicago.
Tonight,it’s three years later, and prohibition’s still going strong. We’ll have toselect the perfect setting for our chat if we expect Kathleen to give usquality answers. I suggest we meet in some dimly-lit, five-star hotel speakeasywith comfortable, leather seating. Music is a must, but another must is for itto be soft, you know, in order to allow civilized conversation. Kathleen hate’syelling.
We’llimpress her if this hotel bar has polished brass, wood décor, and serves her adrink in cut-glass tumblers. She only drinks Cuba Libres made with rum, coke,and a touch of lime.
Yes,she’s still a teenager, but in Chicago in the 1920s, we’re the only ones whoquestions this. A little warning, here. Since we asked for this conversation,she’ll expect us to pick up the tab.
Afterselecting where Kathleen wants to sit, she’ll motion for us to take our seats,then raise one finger in the air. With a slight nod, you’ll see she’s just instructedone of the bar staff to hurry over. While waiting, Kathleen slides a cigarettefrom her pack of Pall Malls, looks for her lighter, not finding it, she glancesup at the young man, who’s come to serve us.
Now,watch as she holds the cigarette up to her lips, while looking like a whippedpuppy. The server, dressed in black pants, white shirt, and black tie, and animagination that will get him nowhere, deftly produces a light for thisenchanting young lady.
Withdrinks in hand, and Kathleen breathing out an occasional smoke ring, I ask her aquestion.
“Tellme, what motivated you to become a dancer here in Chicago at such a young age?”
Kathleenglances around, then gives her hair a one-handed fluff, before she speaks.
“Ithink idealism is underrated. What do you think?”
Ishrug, not knowing what this means to her. She continues.
“Ifwe don’t have high ideals, then our world becomes substandard. I attended thetheater with my parents when I was five. I watch something magical, aballerina. I swear she could fly as she performed her leaps and twirls and—Haveyou ever watched ballet? Or anyone who’s passionate about the art of expressionthrough the display of movement? I always strive to be the best in everything Ido.”
Nodding,I ask her if she regretted giving up her college scholarship to become anentertainer.
“Whata bunch of bullshit.” Kathleen took out another cigarette, fumbled around forher lighter, but the server dashed over and did what he needed to do for her.
Icocked my head and waited for her answer. She downed her Cuba Libre and handedhim her glass and watched for a full minute to be sure he would bring her arefill.
“Whateverthose brainiacs at college think they can teach me, I can learn for myself.”With her little finger, she removed a fleck of tobacco from her lip. “How manybooks do you read in a month? Never mind, because if you only read one genre,and only fiction, it doesn’t matter, dear. However, If you read everything youcan get your hands on, then there’s a true education.”
Then,I asked a question I shouldn’t have.
“Yourbest friend, Sophie, must regret tagging along with you to Chicago. What wouldshe say about this whole experience?”
“God-damnit-to-hell,I’m through here.” Kathleen gathered up her cigarettes and purse. She stood,tossed some bills onto the table, and I thought she’d storm out. She didn’t.
Kathleencrumpled back into her chair and held her chin in her hands. She concentratedon the liquid in the bottom of her glass.
“Thatmess with the mob—I shouldn’t have left her and Dolly to fend for themselves.”Kathleen raised her head and stared at me. Her eyes watery. “What they did toher—I’ll never forgive myself. I’m the one to blame.”
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
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CharleneBell Dietz’s award-winning mystery novels The Flapper, the Scientist, andthe Saboteur combines family saga with corporate espionage, and TheFlapper, the Impostor, and the Stalker propels readers back into 1923 infrenetic Chicago. The Scientist, the Psychic, and the nut gives readersa frightening Caribbean vacation. Herlatest novel The Spinster, the Rebel, and the Governor is a historicalbiography about Lady Margaret Brent, the first American woman to be called anattorney, whose integrity and intelligence saves pre-colonial Maryland fromdevastation. This book won the New Mexico Press Women’s first place award andan award by the National Press Women. The Spinster, the Rebel, and the Governorwill be released as a second edition by Artemesia Press in February 2024. Twoof her Flapper books have won the coveted Kirkus stars, and two were named bestbook of 2018. Charlene, a retired educator, lives in the foothills of themountains in central New Mexico where abundant wildlife, solitude, and natures’beauty inspires her creativity.
Connectwith Charlene:
https://www.facebook.com/charlene.dietz.9/
BuyLinks:
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/charlene%20bell%20dietz/_/N-8q8
https://treasurehousebooks.net/product-tag/charlene-bell-dietz/
The bookwill be $0.99 during the tour.
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GIVEAWAY :
Charlene Bell Dietz will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BNGC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
