Teri M. Brown's Blog, page 20

December 25, 2024

Book Review: Swift Sword

Picture I recently finished reading Swift Sword by Doyle Glass, and it’s a book that I believe should be on everyone's TBR. I grew up during the Vietnam era, which meant that my history classes didn't cover the war. I only knew what little I paid attention to on the news. Swift Sword helped me see more than American protests and swash-buckling MASH-style soldiers that often depict this tragic war.

This amazing book focuses on the Swift Operation and the Marines of Mike 3/5. Doyle did thorough research, taking the reader on a detailed journey of those days of fighting. But more than that, he helps us understand the patriotism, the longing, the hope, and the fear of these young men as they faced impossible challenges.

As I finished the last page, I wondered how I would have fared in such a fight, and considered the resilience that pulled these soldiers through. Perhaps, like the men in Swift Sword, we all have that kind of strength within us.

Purchase a copy of Swift Sword on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4fqlMHL
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4hTkfeV

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 25, 2024 21:00

December 24, 2024

Online for Authors Episode 12-24-24

​Heart and Home: The Journey of a Polish Immigrant Mother with Author Karen Walczyk PrescottPictureMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Karen Walczyk Prescott, author of the book Polish Mother. Inspiration for her second book, Polish Mother, came from three generations of devoted Polish mothers in her life.  Karen is married, the mother of three, and twice retired, once after twenty years at AT&T, and again after twelve years as a middle school English teacher.  She currently lives in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, where she plays golf, writes and is president of her neighborhood book club.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionI just finished an incredible conversation with Karen Prescott about her stunning book "Polish Mother", and I can't wait to share some of the fascinating insights I learned about immigrant stories, Polish-American traditions, and the incredible journey of one remarkable woman named Stella.

Imagine being a 16-year-old girl, traveling alone from Poland to the United States in 1906, arriving penniless and having to telegraph your father for help. That's the true story of Stella, Karen's great-grandmother, which she brilliantly brings to life through creative non-fiction.

What makes this book special?

Based on extensive historical researchCaptures the rich traditions of Polish-American immigrantsReveals family secrets through meticulous documentationBrings a personal, human touch to historical narrative
Cultural Insight: Did you know that Polish immigrants often preserved their cultural traditions as a way of maintaining their identity after experiencing generations of oppression? Karen shared how food, religious practices, and family gatherings became powerful ways of keeping their heritage alive.

Bonus: Karen even shared some authentic Polish recipes passed down through generations - including a perfect crepe recipe that's 3-2-1-1 magic!

P.S. JoinNovels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for a chance to win a copy of "Polish Mother"!

Purchase Polish Mother on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/48vP455

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 24, 2024 05:17

December 22, 2024

Book Review: Anne of Survivor

Picture Anne of Survivor by by Nkrumah Mensah is an amazing young adult historical romance - and despite my age (well past young adult), I couldn't put this book down!

Anne is a young, privileged girl who simply doesn't see life in the same way as her parents. When her father punishes her for her behavior toward a potential suitor, Anne leaves her home and ends up working as a crew member on a ship - but not before meeting a young prostitute that she sets on the straight and narrow. Anne has guts and gumption and soon discovers that she more strength than she knew. But what will she do when she realizes she has feelings for her captain?

And what of the captain who is not what he seems? And Anne's family who finds themselves entwined with Anne's young friend?

The story has many twists and turns and is the first in a series. A definite must-read.

Purchase Anne of Survivor on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3CD4qJc

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 22, 2024 03:00

December 21, 2024

Online for Authors Episode 12-21-24

​Waves of Deceit: A Las Vegas Thriller with Author Adele RoycePictureGuest host, Tina Hogan Grant’s guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Adele Royce, author of the book Summer's Blood. Adele holds a B.A. in English from Arizona State University, where she graduated magna cum laude. She is currently working on the sequel to Summer’s Blood featuring the next generation of the Keller/Van Ness family, as well as Deadly Sins, a collection of short stories. Adele owns a marketing consulting firm in San Diego, California, where she resides with her husband, Marty and their two cats, Bosco and Sesame.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionTina is absolutely buzzing with excitement to share her recent conversation with author Adele Royce about her latest novel, Summer's Blood - a pulse-pounding thriller set in the glittering, gritty backdrop of Las Vegas!

Behind the Book: An Insider's Look

Imagine uncovering a decades-old family mystery that pulls you into a high-stakes adventure through Sin City's underbelly. That's exactly what happens to Craig, our protagonist, in Adele's electrifying new novel. Drawing from her 15-year career in Las Vegas marketing, Adele crafts a narrative that feels so authentic, you'll swear you're walking the Strip alongside her characters.

Meet Skylar: The Character Everyone's Talking About

Can we talk about Skylar? She's the breakout character that's captured readers' hearts - rough around the edges, wickedly smart, and absolutely unforgettable. Adele promises we'll see more of her in the upcoming books of the Neon series!

Want to dive into this thrilling world? Head over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a digital copy!

P.S. Curious about the inspiration behind the book? Roy shares that every character is a unique creation, born from keen observation and creative imagination.

Purchase Summer's Blood on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/41gsknU
Ebook: https://amzn.to/49954KN

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 21, 2024 05:49

December 19, 2024

Book Review: Through Her Lens

Picture (Review by Carole O'Neill, guest host of Online for Authors)

Through Her Lens is a historical fiction by Melissa Bacon Clark. Millicent Trayford spent her days as a member of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force assigned to Britain’s Central Intelligence Unit’s headquarters. As the newest member of Operation Crossbow, she worked reconnaissance in order to stop V1 flying bombs and V2 rockets before D-Day. But Millie’s real desire was to use her camera in the middle of the action to tell the story of women’s strength and vitality before their contributions in the war effort were lost to history.

Melissa Bacon Clark does a seamless job moving from fact to fiction as we imagine the horror of innocent families running for shelters as the sirens rang out against the backdrop of World War II. I thought I had my fill of WWII novels, but Through Her Lens is a very different look at a time in history worth reading, and the latest in the untold stories of the war’s female heroes.

Purchase a copy of Through Her Lens on Amazon:

Paperback: https://amzn.to/3Zl9niI​
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3OprZI6

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 19, 2024 03:00

December 17, 2024

Online for Authors Episode 12-17-24

​Love and Conflict: A Mozambique Thriller Unfolds with Author Geoffrey WellsPictureMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Geoffrey Wells, author of the book A Fado for the River. Geoffrey started writing fiction after a career in IT management at two major US TV broadcasting companies. Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video Version I just finished chatting with Geoffrey Wells, author of A Fado for the River, and I'm still catching my breath from the riveting adventure and gripping suspense.

Set in 1975 Mozambique during a bloody civil war, the story follows Raf, an American TV exec who returns to the country decades later only to be blackmailed and accused of murdering a young woman back in '75. Raf had struck up a friendship with the woman, a shipping clerk with a dangerous secret sought by three warring factions. To save her life, he stages her death in an explosion and they escape across the border. But their diverging paths and interpretations of their newfound freedom splits them apart.

Now, forced to confront his past, Raf must track her down to prove his innocence. The title comes from a Portuguese word "fado", a song of regret and nostalgia, representing the crucial Limpopo River - the center of the war, politics, and personal lives in Mozambique at the time.

What fascinated me most was the meticulous research Geoffrey did to bring this little-known part of history to life. From consulting experts to traveling to the region himself, the vivid details of the culture, setting and complex politics immerse you in the story. The unforgettable scene with the hippos, revered as ancestors by locals, was especially transporting (and nerve-wracking!)

But beyond the history, it's a deeper exploration of the meaning of freedom - both on a societal and intensely personal level for the characters. A topic Jeffrey elaborates on eloquently in his blog (seriously, check it out, it's a thought-provoking read.)

A Fado for the River is the first in Jeffrey's "Trilogy for Freedom", with the story and characters continuing in Atone for the Ivory Cloud and The Drowning Bay. I'm excited to see where Raf's journey leads. In the meantime, Geoffrey is hard at work on his next novel, revisiting two characters from his YA thriller 10 years later in their 20s. Can't wait to read it in 2025.

For more on Geoffrey and his books, head over to his website geoffreywellsfiction.com. And if you're eager to discuss A Fado for the River with fellow readers, join us in the Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook! We're giving away a free digital copy to one lucky member.

I'd love to hear from you - what's the most gripping thriller you've read lately? Comment and let me know.

Purchase A Fado for the River  on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3NdNx9T
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3Nd8kKR

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 17, 2024 04:19

December 16, 2024

Online for Authors Episode 12-16-24

​Fighting with Honor: The Vietnam Veteran’s Legacy with Author Doyle GlassPictureMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Doyle Glass, author of the book Swift Sword. Doyle is an author, historian, and sculptor dedicated to honoring those who fought for freedom. He is a master at recounting true stories of brave men and women who were outnumbered and out-gunned but continued to battle toe-to-toe with ferocious opponents in war. ​Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionToday on Online for Authors, I had the privilege of chatting with Doyle Glass, author of Swift Sword, a gritty, true account of combat at the Marine grunt level during the Vietnam War. Though Doyle himself is not a veteran, his passion for history and desire to honor the sacrifices of our Vietnam veterans drove him to spend years tracking down and interviewing the Marines who fought in Operation Swift Sword.

The result is a powerful, sometimes hard to read story that drops you right into the chaos and terror of a 24-hour battle in September 1967. Through vivid descriptions and poignant quotes from the veterans themselves, Doyle brings to life the unimaginable challenges these young men faced - from malfunctioning M16 rifles to a lack of unit cohesion due to the individual replacement system.

Yet in the midst of horror, there are glimmers of hope and humanity:

A Marine who sees a vision of God in the sky as he lies wounded
The selfless actions of Father Capodanno, a Catholic priest who gave first aid and last rites before being killed himself
The brilliant leadership of young Sergeant Larry Peters, whose tactical maneuvers saved countless lives
Doyle's mission with this book is threefold:

To give long overdue honor and thanks to our Vietnam veterans
To preserve a key piece of history from a war that many wanted to forget
To urge caution and clarity of objective before sending our troops into harm's way
I highly recommend Swift Sword to anyone looking for an unflinching, boots-on-the-ground view of the Vietnam War. It's not an easy read, but an important one. Let's ensure the sacrifices of that generation are never forgotten.

Doyle's next project sounds equally fascinating - a historical fiction novel about Robert Benoist, a French Grand Prix champion who became a secret agent for Churchill in WWII. I can't wait to read it!

To learn more about Doyle and his work, visit his website, subscribe to his newsletter, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram. And don't forget to thank a veteran today!

Purchase Swift Sword on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4fqlMHL
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4hTkfeV

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 16, 2024 04:07

December 15, 2024

Book Review: Summer's Blood

Picture (Review by Tina Hogan Grant, guest host of Online for Authors)

Set in the heart of Las Vegas where lies and deceit are plentiful, Summer's Blood by Adele Royce, is a fast-paced thriller with many twists, turns, and surprises that I didn't see coming. As the story unfolded, I had so many questions, and that is what kept me turning the pages.

Craig was living the perfect life and it all suddenly changed after his father's funeral. With his life spiraling out of control, his love for his wife and children shines through the pages as he finds himself separated from them against his will. I found this story engaging, well-written, and enjoyable. This is a new author to me who I highly recommend.

Purchase a copy of Summer's Blood on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/41gsknU​
Kindle: https://amzn.to/49954KN

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 15, 2024 03:00

December 12, 2024

Online for Authors Episode 12-12-24

​In the Trenches: Life as a COVID Frontline Nurse with Author Kim SloanPictureMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Kim Sloan, author of the book Memoirs from the Frontlines. Kim, BSN, RN, Travel ICU nurse has been a nurse since 2008. Her husband has been a nurse since 2001 working mostly in the intensive care units. They travel the country in their RV, living thirteen weeks at a time (the normal time frame for an assignment) as travel ICU nurses and have been doing so since 2017. In her spare time, Kim enjoys riding motorcycles, and she is an avid chronological scrapbooker. Not to mention, her most enjoyable passion is spending time with her beautiful three granddaughters.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionI had the privilege of interviewing Kim Sloan, an ICU nurse and author of the gripping new memoir Memoirs from the Frontlines. In our conversation, Kim shared powerful stories and insights from her experience working on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the things that struck me most was how Kim and her fellow healthcare workers were living in a completely different reality than the rest of us during those early months. While many of us shifted to working from home and social distancing, ICU nurses like Kim were thrust into a nightmare scenario - an unending stream of critically ill patients and death after death, day after day.

As the pandemic raged on, Kim found herself facing not just the physical and emotional toll of caring for the sickest of the sick, but also the frustration of having her experiences minimized and dismissed by those outside her hospital's walls. Family, friends, even other medical professionals who weren't seeing the worst of COVID firsthand seemed unable to grasp the magnitude of what frontline workers were going through.

"If you're not in the ICU seeing these patients, what do you think you have an opinion to me? When they get to us, those medicines you can just throw at them, that's as much effect as they're doing."

Despite the immense challenges, Kim and her husband, who is also an ICU nurse, found ways to keep living life safely during the pandemic - modeling to others that you can adapt while still going on. And now, by vulnerably sharing her story, Kim is hoping to give people a deeper understanding of what healthcare workers endured and how it's changed them.

This book is a must-read for anyone seeking insight into the pandemic's impact on those who bore the brunt of it. It's a piece of history, a tribute to the resilience of our healthcare heroes, and an urgent reminder of the work still needed to support them.

I'll leave you with this powerful quote from Kim:

"I hope that people take away that ICU nurses went through a mental health roller coaster and we're not the same people we were five years ago. There's a reason. COVID happened in different states, different ways, affected people different, and it wasn't just New York City. It was clear across the country."

Be sure to watch the full interview - her story and insights will stick with you. And get your chance to win a free digital copy by heading over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook.

PLUS:
Inspired by her journey as a traveling nurse, Kim has created a series of children's books that teach about the 50 states through stories of adventure. Check out her Billy Adventures books and give the kids in your life the gift of curiosity about the amazing places in our country. (Purchase on Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Bnvr36)

Purchase a copy of Memoirs on the Frontlines on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4fDxSgO
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4fYGZZ9

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 12, 2024 04:14

December 10, 2024

Online for Authors Episode 12-10-24

​Healers of the Hearth: A Medieval Woman's Journey to Become a Physician w/ Author Lorraine NorwoodPictureMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Lorraine Norwood, author of the book The Solitary Sparrow. Lorraine is a former journalist and archaeologist who lives in Western North Carolina. Her debut novel, The Solitary Sparrow, was published in the spring of 2024. She is at work on the sequel, A Pelican in the Wilderness. The novels are part of a series set in 14th century England and France.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionIf you love a story about persistence and courage, then you will love The Solitary Sparrow. Lorraine's research is top-notch and her characters come to life on the page. It's a must read.

Purchase The Solitary Sparrow on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3ObBQ4e
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3CIKwMK

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Published on December 10, 2024 04:21