Teri M. Brown's Blog, page 13
April 30, 2025
Book Review: The Good Lord Willing
The Good Lord Willing and the Creek Don't Rise by Robert W Morris is a wonderful memoir about Robert's mother, Kay, as well as his own interesting life. This memoir spans 90+ years and gives readers a glimpse into the lives of two people who never quite followed the "rules" as set out by society.Kay, twice divorced, spoke her mind, even when others thought she should keep quiet - just ask the Catholic priest who refused to give her communion. She raised her children with the same spirit - to know who they were and what they stood for along with a willingness to act. Kay was a lifelong learner, taking on getting a pilot's license, going back to school to become a legal secretary, writing poetry, drawing nature, and studying the Japanese language. She loved to travel and she loved her family.
I really enjoyed reading Robert's account of his own life and how his mother fit into the picture. I appreciated his candor - he didn't seem to have the need to paint himself in the perfect light, which means the reader gets to see his struggles and pains as well as his triumphs. Although Robert and I have very different opinions about life, I admire how he found his truth and then found a way to live that truth.
This is a fascinating memoir about a boy and his mom through the years. I think you'll enjoy it.
Purchase The Good Lord Willing and the Creek Don't Rise:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3XNTS1L
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4i1hXZZ
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 29, 2025
Online for Authors Episode 4-29-25
Exotic Moves and Dangerous Deals: A Thriller with a Dash of Romance with Author Josh Boldt
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Josh Boldt, author of the book Moneymaker. Josh is a crime and mystery author who specializes in Southern themes, settings, and characters. He is the author of three novels: Moneymaker, The False Favorite, and Slurry. He lives in Lexington, Kentucky, where he’s hard at work on his next story.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionMoneymaker is a page-turning Southern crime thriller set on the Georgia coast. We meet Mack, a surveillance expert, when he accepts a job in Savannah. The job is to keep his eyes on a package, and it soon becomes apparent this package contains drugs - and a lot of them. While in Savannah, Mack becomes attracted to Avery, a local exotic dancer, who just happens to be addicted to the drugs Mack is surveilling. And just to keep the story interesting, Josh lets us see the action from a third point of view - that of one of the bad guys named Jerry.
Even though the story takes place during one week, the plot moves along quickly, as we see the inner workings of drug smugglers and what they will do to ensure they get paid for their delivery. And throughout this week, you'll find yourself worrying about Mack, Avery, and yes, even Jerry!
If you like fast-paced stories with intrigue, guns, and a bit of romance, then you will enjoy this book.
Continue the book conversation by heading to Novels N Latte on Facebook, where you will have the chance to win a free digital copy of Moneymaker.
Purchase Moneymaker on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3E7G4bt
Ebook: https://amzn.to/43PhK95
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Josh Boldt, author of the book Moneymaker. Josh is a crime and mystery author who specializes in Southern themes, settings, and characters. He is the author of three novels: Moneymaker, The False Favorite, and Slurry. He lives in Lexington, Kentucky, where he’s hard at work on his next story.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionMoneymaker is a page-turning Southern crime thriller set on the Georgia coast. We meet Mack, a surveillance expert, when he accepts a job in Savannah. The job is to keep his eyes on a package, and it soon becomes apparent this package contains drugs - and a lot of them. While in Savannah, Mack becomes attracted to Avery, a local exotic dancer, who just happens to be addicted to the drugs Mack is surveilling. And just to keep the story interesting, Josh lets us see the action from a third point of view - that of one of the bad guys named Jerry.Even though the story takes place during one week, the plot moves along quickly, as we see the inner workings of drug smugglers and what they will do to ensure they get paid for their delivery. And throughout this week, you'll find yourself worrying about Mack, Avery, and yes, even Jerry!
If you like fast-paced stories with intrigue, guns, and a bit of romance, then you will enjoy this book.
Continue the book conversation by heading to Novels N Latte on Facebook, where you will have the chance to win a free digital copy of Moneymaker.
Purchase Moneymaker on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3E7G4bt
Ebook: https://amzn.to/43PhK95
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 27, 2025
Book Review: The Dream Haunters
Dream Haunters by Megan Mary is an enchanting cozy mystery set in Maple Hollow. It's a perfect book for those who love fall, Halloween, and all things magic.Hannah Skye heads to Maple Hollow when she learns her Aunt Jewelia, her last remaining relative, is missing. While there, she begins to recognize that her family has a lot of secrets - and these secrets have a direct impact on her.
Will she figure out what she is supposed to learn from the residents of Maple Hollow? Will she rightfully take her place in the family line? Will she be able to save her aunt from the dream haunters? More importantly, will she be able to save the world?
Megan creates a wonderful scene and cast of characters. You won't want to miss this cozy mystery.
Purchase The Dream Haunters on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3QSwuw0
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4caaoyZ
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 24, 2025
Online for Authors Episode 4-24-25
Hidden Riches: The Quest for Spanish Gold in Tennessee's Mysterious Caves with Author Rick Glaze
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Rick Glaze, author of the book Eight Pieces of Eight. He is an award-winning songwriter with two CDs, a Pandora radio station, credits on Country Music Television (CMT), BBC Radio, as well as radio airplay. Rick has rafted the Grand Canyon, the Salmon and Rogue Rivers as well as sailed throughout the Caribbean Sea.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionIn my book review, I stated Eight Pieces of Eight is a contemporary adventure full of mysticism, romance, and strong family ties. And let's not forget the treasure!
If you've ever wanted to go on a treasure hunt, then this book, the second in his series, is not to be missed. We soon find ourselves on a quest for lost Spanish treasure with Bev, her odd brother, her obsessed cousin, and a new-found boyfriend in a rural area filled with caves near Nashville Tennessee. Bev has inherited a sixth sense like her mother, and this sixth sense allows her to understand a mystical map that glows and changes offering clues to find a missing chest full of gold. But the map gains control of the owners, causing them to forsake all else for the possible treasure. Will the same thing happen to Bev when she comes into possession of the ancient map?
The twists and turns were fun and kept me guessing. And I learned quite a lot about Tennessee caves. The character development wasn't quite as deep as I would have liked and sometimes the dialogue seemed rushed, but even with these issues, I enjoyed the book and now want to know more. Luckily, the book ends in such a way that I believe I will get my wish!
Keep this conversation going by heading over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook where you will have a chance to win a free copy of Eight Pieces of Eight.
Purchase Eight Pieces of Eight on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/42j5XgS
Ebook: https://amzn.to/41BZNch
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Rick Glaze, author of the book Eight Pieces of Eight. He is an award-winning songwriter with two CDs, a Pandora radio station, credits on Country Music Television (CMT), BBC Radio, as well as radio airplay. Rick has rafted the Grand Canyon, the Salmon and Rogue Rivers as well as sailed throughout the Caribbean Sea.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionIn my book review, I stated Eight Pieces of Eight is a contemporary adventure full of mysticism, romance, and strong family ties. And let's not forget the treasure!If you've ever wanted to go on a treasure hunt, then this book, the second in his series, is not to be missed. We soon find ourselves on a quest for lost Spanish treasure with Bev, her odd brother, her obsessed cousin, and a new-found boyfriend in a rural area filled with caves near Nashville Tennessee. Bev has inherited a sixth sense like her mother, and this sixth sense allows her to understand a mystical map that glows and changes offering clues to find a missing chest full of gold. But the map gains control of the owners, causing them to forsake all else for the possible treasure. Will the same thing happen to Bev when she comes into possession of the ancient map?
The twists and turns were fun and kept me guessing. And I learned quite a lot about Tennessee caves. The character development wasn't quite as deep as I would have liked and sometimes the dialogue seemed rushed, but even with these issues, I enjoyed the book and now want to know more. Luckily, the book ends in such a way that I believe I will get my wish!
Keep this conversation going by heading over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook where you will have a chance to win a free copy of Eight Pieces of Eight.
Purchase Eight Pieces of Eight on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/42j5XgS
Ebook: https://amzn.to/41BZNch
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 23, 2025
Book Review: Blood Flow
Blood Flow by Larry Bograd is a look at a son's journey to understand his father's suicide. This memoir is real and sometimes raw, but it always brings us back to the understanding that Larry's father had a mental illness. His death when Larry was just 13 was unexpected for Larry but not for those around his father who understood the truth.Larry spends years writing and rewriting the story as he uncovers facts gleaned from relatives, old friends, and even trips to his father's homeland. We also see some of Larry's own struggles as he deals with heart issues in his mid 40s that threaten to derail the life he has created despite his early trauma.
I enjoyed this memoir because it solidified what I've come to understand about people - we simply don't know what is going on with them by looking on the outside. We need to do a better job to get to know and understand those around us. And this can be as easy as sitting down and asking questions.
Purchase a copy of Blood Flow on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/42lpKx4
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3QUJUI4
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 22, 2025
Online for Authors Episode 4-22-25
Sips and Stories: A Journey Through Bulgaria’s Rich Culture with Author Ellis Shuman
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Ellis Shuman, author of the book Rakiya - Stories of Bulgaria. Ellis is an American-born Israeli author, travel writer, and book reviewer.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionIf you've ever been curious about lesser-known corners of the world, this episode of the Online for Authors podcast is your perfect invitation. In an engaging and insightful interview, author Ellis Shuman takes listeners on a journey through his collection of short stories, Rakiya: Stories of Bulgaria—and into the soul of a country often overlooked on the traveler's map.
What’s Inside the Podcast
A Deep Dive into Rakia: Stories of Bulgaria
Ellis introduces his collection of twelve short stories, all set in Bulgaria. The stories are a mix of perspectives, from native Bulgarians to foreigners experiencing the country for the first time. As Ellis says, “Bulgaria is one of the main characters in my book.” Through vivid depictions of mountains, churches, food, and culture, listeners get a rich sense of place that goes beyond typical travel writing.
Why Bulgaria?
Listeners will learn about Ellis’s two-year stay in Sofia, Bulgaria, and how the experience sparked a lifelong connection and creative inspiration. His background—an American living in Israel—brings a unique lens to his storytelling. Bulgaria’s natural beauty and cultural richness left such an impression that it continues to shape his work even years later.
The Art of the Short Story
Ellis talks about his preference for short fiction, comparing it to a "palate cleanser" that allows for focused creativity. He shares the challenges of getting short stories published and how each story in Rakia first found its home in a literary magazine before becoming part of the book.
Highlights from the Stories
One standout is “Forgiveness,” a historically rooted piece about Bulgaria’s little-known role in protecting its Jewish population during WWII. Another is the title story, which centers around a village rakiya-making competition—a potent introduction to Bulgaria’s national drink and culture.
Personal Stories and Character Insights
The podcast also explores the characters Ellis creates, including a particularly memorable one—a Roma mother-daughter pickpocket team. Ellis strives to bring authenticity and humanity to every figure he writes, whether they're locals or visitors.
A Love Letter to Bulgaria
Perhaps the most compelling takeaway is Ellis’s hope that his stories inspire others to visit Bulgaria. Through his fiction, he aims to elevate awareness of a country rich in history, nature, and tradition. “If even one reader adds Bulgaria to their travel list, I feel I’ve succeeded,” he says.
Tune In If You Want To:Travel vicariously through richly drawn fictionDiscover the beauty and complexity of BulgariaHear from an author who blends global experiences with heartfelt storytellingBe inspired to pick up the pen—or book a flight!
To keep this book conversation going, head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free copy of Rakiya!
Purchase Rakiya - Stories of Bulgaria on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3RwLK1L
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4ja3EU6
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Ellis Shuman, author of the book Rakiya - Stories of Bulgaria. Ellis is an American-born Israeli author, travel writer, and book reviewer.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionIf you've ever been curious about lesser-known corners of the world, this episode of the Online for Authors podcast is your perfect invitation. In an engaging and insightful interview, author Ellis Shuman takes listeners on a journey through his collection of short stories, Rakiya: Stories of Bulgaria—and into the soul of a country often overlooked on the traveler's map.What’s Inside the Podcast
A Deep Dive into Rakia: Stories of Bulgaria
Ellis introduces his collection of twelve short stories, all set in Bulgaria. The stories are a mix of perspectives, from native Bulgarians to foreigners experiencing the country for the first time. As Ellis says, “Bulgaria is one of the main characters in my book.” Through vivid depictions of mountains, churches, food, and culture, listeners get a rich sense of place that goes beyond typical travel writing.
Why Bulgaria?
Listeners will learn about Ellis’s two-year stay in Sofia, Bulgaria, and how the experience sparked a lifelong connection and creative inspiration. His background—an American living in Israel—brings a unique lens to his storytelling. Bulgaria’s natural beauty and cultural richness left such an impression that it continues to shape his work even years later.
The Art of the Short Story
Ellis talks about his preference for short fiction, comparing it to a "palate cleanser" that allows for focused creativity. He shares the challenges of getting short stories published and how each story in Rakia first found its home in a literary magazine before becoming part of the book.
Highlights from the Stories
One standout is “Forgiveness,” a historically rooted piece about Bulgaria’s little-known role in protecting its Jewish population during WWII. Another is the title story, which centers around a village rakiya-making competition—a potent introduction to Bulgaria’s national drink and culture.
Personal Stories and Character Insights
The podcast also explores the characters Ellis creates, including a particularly memorable one—a Roma mother-daughter pickpocket team. Ellis strives to bring authenticity and humanity to every figure he writes, whether they're locals or visitors.
A Love Letter to Bulgaria
Perhaps the most compelling takeaway is Ellis’s hope that his stories inspire others to visit Bulgaria. Through his fiction, he aims to elevate awareness of a country rich in history, nature, and tradition. “If even one reader adds Bulgaria to their travel list, I feel I’ve succeeded,” he says.
Tune In If You Want To:Travel vicariously through richly drawn fictionDiscover the beauty and complexity of BulgariaHear from an author who blends global experiences with heartfelt storytellingBe inspired to pick up the pen—or book a flight!
To keep this book conversation going, head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free copy of Rakiya!
Purchase Rakiya - Stories of Bulgaria on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3RwLK1L
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4ja3EU6
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 20, 2025
Book Review: Moneymaker
Moneymaker by Josh Boldt is a page-turning Southern crime thriller set on the Georgia coast. We meet Mack, a surveillance expert, when he accepts a job in Savannah. The job is to keep his eyes on a package, and it soon becomes apparent this package contains drugs - and a lot of them. While in Savannah, Mack becomes attracted to Avery, a local exotic dancer, who just happens to be addicted to the drugs Mack is surveilling. And just to keep the story interesting, Josh lets us see the action from a third point of view - that of one of the bad guys named Jerry.
Even though the story takes place during one week, the plot moves along quickly, as we see the inner workings of drug smugglers and what they will do to ensure they get paid for their delivery. And throughout this week, you'll find yourself worrying about Mack, Avery, and yes, even Jerry!
If you like fast-paced stories with intrigue, guns, and a bit of romance, then you will enjoy this book.
Purchase a copy of Moneymaker on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3E7G4bt
Kindle: https://amzn.to/43PhK95
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 19, 2025
Online for Authors Episode 4-19-25
Ethics for Sale: The Hidden Price of Progress with Author Audrey Gale
Today on Online for Authors, guest-host Carole O’Neill interviews Audrey Gale, author of the book The Human Trial. Audrey Gale long dreamed of being a writer, but never anticipated the circuitous road she’d take to get there. Gale lives in Los Angeles with her husband and dogs where she is found hiking the Santa Monica Mountains every chance she gets.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionIn her book review, Carole stated that The Human Trial showed that a small number of high school students graduate early and get accepted into a college program of their dreams. Very few graduate high school at 16 years old and go on to get a full-ride at Harvard University. However, Randy Archer, the son of a steel-mill worker in Pennsylvania, does just that.
Audrey, the author of The Human Trial, takes you back to the 1920s, against the backdrop of The Great Depression, and introduces us to Archer as he is still living at home with his father and older brothers. They all expect him to follow them to a life in the steel mill. He has another idea, but no financial way to fulfill that dream.
Gale describes how Archer defies the odds, with the help of his high school counselor and her friend at Harvard. She convinces Archer he will be mentored alone the way to a degree at the prestigious university unavailable to many.
During his years as a graduate student studying to become a pathology researcher, he meets a physics student, Adam Wakefield, working on his PhD. He’s developed a much-advanced microscope which allows the two students to discover a way to offer a non-traditional healing method to terminal patients.
There is, of course, a love interest that Archer can’t quite understand. Why such a beautiful girl from Boston’s Beacon Hill would be interested in him, stymies him. Gale keeps you believing they will make the perfect marriage, or will they?
The Human Trial has something for everyone: medical science, academic scheming, blue-collared families vs. Boston Brauhmans, and an impossible secret discovery everyone wants a piece of. This is a book that will keep you pulling for the underdog until the final pages.
Head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free digital copy of The Human Trial!
Purchase The Human Trial on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3DquTdM
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4hgoaRm
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Today on Online for Authors, guest-host Carole O’Neill interviews Audrey Gale, author of the book The Human Trial. Audrey Gale long dreamed of being a writer, but never anticipated the circuitous road she’d take to get there. Gale lives in Los Angeles with her husband and dogs where she is found hiking the Santa Monica Mountains every chance she gets.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionIn her book review, Carole stated that The Human Trial showed that a small number of high school students graduate early and get accepted into a college program of their dreams. Very few graduate high school at 16 years old and go on to get a full-ride at Harvard University. However, Randy Archer, the son of a steel-mill worker in Pennsylvania, does just that.Audrey, the author of The Human Trial, takes you back to the 1920s, against the backdrop of The Great Depression, and introduces us to Archer as he is still living at home with his father and older brothers. They all expect him to follow them to a life in the steel mill. He has another idea, but no financial way to fulfill that dream.
Gale describes how Archer defies the odds, with the help of his high school counselor and her friend at Harvard. She convinces Archer he will be mentored alone the way to a degree at the prestigious university unavailable to many.
During his years as a graduate student studying to become a pathology researcher, he meets a physics student, Adam Wakefield, working on his PhD. He’s developed a much-advanced microscope which allows the two students to discover a way to offer a non-traditional healing method to terminal patients.
There is, of course, a love interest that Archer can’t quite understand. Why such a beautiful girl from Boston’s Beacon Hill would be interested in him, stymies him. Gale keeps you believing they will make the perfect marriage, or will they?
The Human Trial has something for everyone: medical science, academic scheming, blue-collared families vs. Boston Brauhmans, and an impossible secret discovery everyone wants a piece of. This is a book that will keep you pulling for the underdog until the final pages.
Head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free digital copy of The Human Trial!
Purchase The Human Trial on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3DquTdM
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4hgoaRm
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 16, 2025
Book Review: The Angel Scroll
The Angel Scroll by Penelope Holt is a wonderful women's fiction mystery full of mysticism and romance. You are going to love Claire, a recently widowed painter who manages to paint a masterpiece well-beyond her abilities. Although the piece brings her fame, she feels like a fraud, having painted something that brings everyone else peace when it brings her nothing but sadness. Despite this, she can't bear to part with it.Enter recently widowed antiquarian, Richard. He believes Claire's painting is one-third of an ancient Christian prophecy, and that this might explain Claire's recent psychic abilities. Before long, the two are on an adventure taking them to Jerusalem, Rome, Siena, Glastonbury Tor, and New England.
Within these pages, you'll find intrigue, passion, greed, love, wisdom, good, and evil - like a microcosm of the world we live in! Once I started, I couldn't put it down.
Purchase The Angel Scroll:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4lqcKhw
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3RC1JM9
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
April 15, 2025
Online for Authors Episode 4-15-25
Love Off-Script: The Surprising Romance Between a Star and a Single Mom with author Shelby Saville
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Shelby Saville, author of the book And They Had a Great Fall. Her first writing job was for the Lacon Home Journal, where she covered the news of the town. She moved to Chicago when she got her dream job in the advertising industry using numbers rather than words. She’s returned to the world of words with her debut novel. Writing this novel has felt like coming home as the two sides of her brain merge. When not at her computer, she can be found hanging with her husband, Scott, teenage daughter, three dogs and one mean cat.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionAnd They Had a Great Fall is a wonderful romance that had me in all of my emotions. For me, it was particularly poignant since we learn early on that Kat lost her husband to cancer five years earlier - and she is having a heck of a time moving forward. Although she is much younger than me, has a young child at home, and was in the midst of an important corporate career, I still felt a kinship.
Kat's love interest, Jake, is someone well outside her norm. Everything about his life is what she claims to abhor - messy, emotional, spontaneous, and all-in. Jake sees that she offers a stability and sense of purpose he craves. But what happens when two broken people find one another and try to fix the other without first fixing themselves?
I laughed. I cried. I raged. I cheered. But most importantly, I connected. This book should be on your TBR.
Head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free copy!
Purchase And They Had a Great Fall on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/43gZDIH
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4iNlJr1
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
My guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Shelby Saville, author of the book And They Had a Great Fall. Her first writing job was for the Lacon Home Journal, where she covered the news of the town. She moved to Chicago when she got her dream job in the advertising industry using numbers rather than words. She’s returned to the world of words with her debut novel. Writing this novel has felt like coming home as the two sides of her brain merge. When not at her computer, she can be found hanging with her husband, Scott, teenage daughter, three dogs and one mean cat.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionAnd They Had a Great Fall is a wonderful romance that had me in all of my emotions. For me, it was particularly poignant since we learn early on that Kat lost her husband to cancer five years earlier - and she is having a heck of a time moving forward. Although she is much younger than me, has a young child at home, and was in the midst of an important corporate career, I still felt a kinship.Kat's love interest, Jake, is someone well outside her norm. Everything about his life is what she claims to abhor - messy, emotional, spontaneous, and all-in. Jake sees that she offers a stability and sense of purpose he craves. But what happens when two broken people find one another and try to fix the other without first fixing themselves?
I laughed. I cried. I raged. I cheered. But most importantly, I connected. This book should be on your TBR.
Head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free copy!
Purchase And They Had a Great Fall on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/43gZDIH
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4iNlJr1
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
