Teri M. Brown's Blog, page 25

Book Review: 10 Little Rules When Good Jobs Go Bad

10 Little Rules When Good Jobs Go Bad by Kathleen Goggin takes a hard look at changing jobs, what it looks like, what it means, and when you might consider the switch. I love how Kathleen seasons the book with her work history story, allowing us a peek into her decisions, both good and not so good.

My favorite rule was "Leverage Boredom." When Kate's job no longer challenged her, she became bored. However, rather than just accept boredom, or spend time scrolling social media reels, she took a technical writing certification program. As Kate states, "I always advise people they should learn something new if their job search is in neutral." This certification paved the way for the next stepping stone in her career.

As a semi-retired author, I wish I had this book earlier in life. Knowing that, I think I'll buy several copies for my children in hopes of helping them navigate this area of their life. Well-done, Kathleen!

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Online for Authors Episode 9-21-24

​Second Chances: Two Women’s Journeys During World War I with Author Donna Jones AlwardGuest-host for Online for Authors, Carole O’Neill chats today with Donna Jones Alward, author of the book When the World Fell Silent. Since 2006, New York Times bestseller Donna Jones Alward has enchanted readers with stories of happy endings and homecomings that have won several awards and been translated into over a dozen languages. Donna currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada, with her husband and two cats. You can often find her near the water, either kayaking on the lake or walking the sandy beaches to refill her creative well.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionHistorical fiction author Donna Jones Alward's new book, When the World Fell Silent, tells the riveting tale of two women's lives drastically changed by the devastating 1917 Halifax Harbor explosion.

Despite growing up just one province over in New Brunswick, Donna had never learned about this tragic event in school. It wasn't until she read the classic Canadian novel Barometer Rising by Hugh MacLennan in 12th grade that she discovered this forgotten piece of history. Interestingly, the explosion created a special bond between Halifax and Boston, as the Massachusetts city immediately sent aid and medical personnel to assist in the aftermath. To this day, Nova Scotia sends a Christmas tree to Boston each year as a symbol of gratitude.

In Carole's chat, Donna shares insights into her writing process and the joys and challenges of switching from romance to historical fiction. Some key takeaways:
Solid research is essential. Donna spent three months doing in-depth research before starting her first draft to ensure historical accuracy.Finding your author voice takes time. Donna wrote ten books over five years before making her first sale. Rejection is part of the journey!Preparation meets opportunity. The more you hone your craft and persist, the higher your chances of success when the right opportunity comes along.
Carole absolutely devoured When the World Fell Silent and can't recommend it highly enough. Donna masterfully weaves a tale of love, loss, trauma and healing against the backdrop of a fascinating historical event. The book follows two very different women - Nora, an adventurous army nurse, and Charlotte, a struggling war widow. When the explosion upends their lives, they must find the strength to carry on and rebuild. An unexpected twist near the end will leave you reeling!

To hear more of Carole's conversation with Donna, including a sneak peek of her next book set aboard the Titanic, check out the full Online for Authors episode. And be sure to grab your copy of When the World Fell Silent, out now! Also, head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook for your chance to win a free digital copy!

Purchase When the World Fell Silent on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3SOefcj
​Ebook: https://amzn.to/4cBwkl4

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Book Review: Seventeen Parcels

Seventeen Parcels by Mic Lowther is a literary fiction with a bit of mystery thrown in. I loved the premise of this book - a wealthy man's attorney hires a man to hid 17 parcels around the United States. This man, Austin, is only allowed to hide one package per month and is given specific instructions on what to do once the package is hidden. Eighteen months later, Austin goes back to his normal delivery job. When the billionaire dies, his children, with the help of Austin, must locate all 17 packages before they can learn what their father has done with the estate.

My favorite character, Austin, is a quirky man who doesn't ask questions. I cannot imagine having this job and not demanding to know more - or not snooping to discover what was in the boxes! On the other hand, I would love to have an 18 month adventure that took me all over the country!

It's a fun read that keeps you guessing until the end.

​Buy the paperback.​
​Buy the ebook.

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Online for Authors Episode 9-19-24

​Restoring the Past: Uncovering a Secret in the Pond with Author Rachel CallaghanMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Rachel Callaghan, author of the book Under Water. Rachel, novelist, award-winning essayist, ex-short story writer, and former editor of In Posse on WebDelSol, learned a thing or two about traumatic circumstances and the emotional and psychological damage they cause. Besides writing, she is now a wife, mother, serial home renovator, dog and cat owner, and former traveler who circled the globe at age 21. Dr. Callaghan’s rich life has been instrumental in shaping her fiction.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionI had the pleasure of chatting with author Rachel Callahan on my podcast. Rachel's latest book, Under Water, is a captivating saga interweaving the stories of a pre-Revolutionary house restoration and two different time periods tied together by shared traumas and the establishment of unconventional families.

During our conversation, Rachel shared fascinating insights into her creative process as a pantser writer who lets the story unfold organically. She touched on the challenges and joys of writing flawed yet relatable characters, and how she strives to portray historical figures within the context of their era rather than judging them by modern standards.

One of the most intriguing aspects we discussed was Rachel's favorite character, Letty, who seems to be quite polarizing among readers. Without giving away spoilers, Rachel expressed curiosity to hear readers' takes on Letty and what makes her so compelling, even if not always likable. She'd love to have a spoiler-filled discussion with those who've read the book to really dig into Letty's character arc!

Looking ahead, Rachel has several exciting projects in the works - a satirical locked-room mystery, a thriller set in West Virginia, and potentially a sequel to her next release. I admire how she fearlessly explores different genres while maintaining themes of found family throughout her works.

If you'd like a chance to win a signed copy of Under Water, head over to the Novels & Latte Book Club on Facebook and look for my post about the podcast. I'd also encourage you to reach out to Rachel directly on herFacebook author page to share your thoughts on the book - she genuinely values reader feedback, both positive and critical!

Purchase Under Water on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3ZjHlVf
​Ebook: https://amzn.to/3XiHZja

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Book Review: A Chance of a Ghost

A Chance of a Ghost by RC and JP Carter is a paranormal mystery and is part of the Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles. Although I'm not usually a ghost-story reader, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and learned quite a lot in the process.

You see, RC and JP are not just authors and podcast hosts, they are also paranormal investigators. This story shows what paranormal investigators do, the type of equipment they use, and the types of situations they run into. It also shows skepticism from those who realize what they are up to, which I found refreshing since I, too, am a skeptic when it comes to haunted houses. Yet, despite my skepticism, I have seen and felt things I cannot explain.

The characters, Mike and Maureen, are a lovable couple trying to help their cousins uncover the secrets of the old mansion they purchased. Plus, Mike also receives a premonition about a local man's murder. Will they discover a ghost? Can they help the ghost move on without marring their cousins' reputations? Will they be able to stop a murder before it happens?

This is a fun, quick read and is a great ghost story, especially for those who may not be believers!

​Purchase the paperback.​
​Purchase the ebook.

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Online for Authors Episode 9-17-24

​Skates and Pirouettes: Unexpected Love on the Ice with Author Melissa C DiaferiaMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is Melissa C Diaferia, author of the book Sugar Plum and the Right Winger. Melissa is a talented independent romance author from Toronto, Ontario. Along with her passion for makeup artistry and nail design, Melissa enjoys writing as another creative outlet for her ideas and passions. Here, she is known to focus on her Italian heritage, musicality, sports, and her love for romance-based plots. Melissa also enjoys giving back to others in her community as she volunteers at her local church to further spread the love and joy she has in her heart.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionI just had the most delightful chat with Melissa C. Diaferia, a talented independent romance author from Toronto. Melissa is making waves with her latest novel, Sugar Plum and the Right-Winger, the first book in her Toronto Blues series.

In Sugar Plum and the Right-Winger, Melissa pairs an unlikely duo - Bea, a graceful ballerina, and Teo, a rugged Toronto Blues hockey player. I loved how Melissa brought together two extremely athletic characters from very different sports worlds. The book is a quick, clean romance read that includes a fun song list featuring tunes from Hamilton and artists like Elvis and Michael Bublé. Heads up though - the Toronto Blues is a fictional hockey team Melissa created for her series, not to be confused with the real-life Toronto Maple Leafs!

During our chat, Melissa shared her writing journey, from scribbling stories in kindergarten to now crafting compelling characters as a young author. She opened up about the challenges of sharing her work on platforms like Wattpad and the importance of fostering creativity in young writers. Melissa's advice? Focus on getting all your ideas out, even the "bad" ones, to make room for the great ones to shine through.

As a "pantser" style writer, Melissa enjoys the discovery process of letting her stories and characters guide her, rather than outlining every plot point in advance. She's excited to continue the Toronto Blues series and has plans to explore other genres in the future, like a fictionalized family memoir based on her Italian grandparents' incredible love story.

If you want to keep the book discussion going, hop on over to the Novels and Latte Book Club on Facebook. As a member, you'll have a chance to win a digital copy of Sugar Plum and the Right-Winger. And be sure to connect with Melissa her website to stay updated on her writing adventures and upcoming releases.

Major thanks to Melissa for being my guest and sharing her contagious enthusiasm for storytelling. I hope our conversation inspires you to chase your own writing dreams, no matter your age or background. Remember, every author starts somewhere - the key is to just keep writing!

Purchase Sugar Plum and the Right Winger:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3ShIqbT
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3YcqmDz

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Book Review: The Solitary Sparrow

The Solitary Sparrow by Lorraine Norwood is an amazing historical fiction set in 14th century England and France. I loved the premise - a child, Meg, considered evil due to a birth deformity eventually finds her passion in medicine. But how will she move forward given her facial disfigurement, her family's station in life, and the fact that she is a woman?

Early in the book, Meg determines that she will become the first licensed female physician in English and hopes to provide care to women. She is tutored by a village healer, then a surgeon and his son, and even a school of medicine, though she must remain hidden from view because no females are allowed to attend. Despite it all, she thrives - gaining knowledge, wisdom, and even love.

If 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 paperback.​
​Purchase the ebook.​
​Purchase the audiobook.

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Book Review: The Bronze Door

The Bronze Door by Karin Ciholas is book #2 in The Cyrenian Trilogy. You may remember that I LOVED The Lighthouse, and Karin did not disappoint me with this installment.

Valerius is a Roman tasked to put his ruler's statue in the Jewish temple. However, Valerius' sister married his best friend, Simon, a Jew. And to complicate matters even further, he is in love with his best friend's sister, Rachel. Although Valerius doesn't understand the Jewish faith, he does understand that putting the statue in the temple will cause widespread death and destruction - something he wants to avoid at all costs.

The Bronze Door is an excellently researched historical fiction set in Alexandria and Jerusalem during the time of early Christianity. I instantly fell in love with the characters as they grappled with religious change, immoral leaders, and the struggle to determine which matters more, one person's life or the lives of many. Every character is rich and deep. The emotions run strong. The action is riveting. I can't say enough.

Without a doubt, Karin Ciholas is an author to watch.

​Purchase the paperback
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Book Review: 10 Little Rules for Sharing Your Story

​10 Little Rules for Sharing Your Story by Frank Winters explores his rules for public speaking. He chose to write this book when he realized that the thing he enjoys so much is the number one fear of most people in the United States. However, these rules will help more than those speaking behind a podium.

Do you want to be a better communicator with those you love? Do you want to provide a legacy of stories to your children? Do you want to connect more over coffee and bagels? Then 10 Little rules for Sharing Your Story is the right book for you. Not only does Frank share his rules, but he provides notebooking pages so you can create your own rules around storytelling.

My favorite rule is #6 - Think Beyond the Elevator Pitch. Frank believes that if you have something important to say, you should be able to adjust it to the time given to you. If you only have 7 seconds, what would you say? What about two minutes? What about twenty? By thinking of our stories this way, we can learn what parts are the most important and the most intriguing. I will definitely be using this idea in my own speaking!

I highly recommend this 10 Little Rules book.

​Purchase the hardcover

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Online for Authors Episode 9-10-24

​Blueprints and Whodunits: A Cozy Mystery Unfolds in a Small Town with Author V.S. GardnerMy guest today on the Online for Authors podcast is V.S. Gardner, author of the book A Killing on Hardee Street. VS Gardner excitedly achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a published author when her first novel, A Killing on Hardee Street, was published in 2020. Holding to the belief that life’s greatest treasures are found in relationships, V.S. Gardner enjoys spending time with family and friends. When not writing, she enjoys reading, thrifting, exploring local points of interest, and trail walking. She is grateful for the many blessings of life. Be sure to follow the Author on Amazon for future publications.Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionGreetings from the porch on this bright spring day! It's in these quiet moments that inspiration often strikes—just ask VS Gardner, author of the cozy mystery A Killing on Hardy Street.

Vanessa had been writing poetry since she was ten, but it wasn't until she was watching a house being built from her back patio that the idea for her debut novel took root. She imagined her main character Vonda in a similar scenario, enjoying her daily coffee in a rocking chair. But instead of a peaceful morning, Vonda witnesses a crime at the construction site across the way. Talk about a plot twist!

What I love about Vanessa's writing journey is how relatable it is. Like many of us, she'd dreamed of being an author since childhood. She even bought a typewriter with her high school graduation money! But life has a way of keeping us busy, and it wasn't until a joke with a friend about "sleep typing" years later that Vanessa finally put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and brought A Killing on Hardy Street to life.

The novel follows Vonda, a recent widow, as she adjusts to her new circumstances in the small town of Logan, South Carolina. When a murder occurs at the construction site she's been watching from her porch, Vonda realizes she may have clues to the killer's identity without even knowing it. But digging into the mystery puts a target on her own back. Will she be the next victim?

While the book is a cozy mystery, Vanessa artfully weaves in themes of grief, faith, and friendship through Vonda's journey. There's even a touch of romance! As a fellow author of character-driven fiction, I really appreciated how much heart and authenticity Vanessa brings to her characters. You can't help but root for Vonda and the colorful cast that surrounds her.

I also loved learning about the personal touches Vanessa includes in all her books—from beloved family names to subtle butterfly symbolism (did you know Vanessa means butterfly in Greek?). It's details like these that make a story feel all the more special, don't you think?

If you're craving an engaging whodunit with characters that feel like friends, I highly recommend adding A Killing on Hardy Street to your reading list. And exciting news: Vanessa let me know she just released her first poetry collection, Reflections! 

For my fellow writers out there, I hope Vanessa's story is a reminder that it's never too late to chase your dreams. You never know when inspiration will strike—it could be while sipping coffee on the porch, talking with an old friend, or even noticing a butterfly fluttering by. The muse works in mysterious ways!

I'd love to hear from you! What's the most unexpected place you've found story inspiration? Comment and let me know. And if you've read A Killing on Hardy Street, I'd be thrilled to discuss it with you!

Wishing you a day filled with good books and maybe even a mystery to solve.

P.S. Want to keep the book discussion going? Head over to Novels and Latte Book Club on Facebook and enter for a chance to win a digital copy of A Killing on Hardy Street! See you there.

Purchase A Killing on Hardee Street on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3Sgpv1b
​Ebook: https://amzn.to/3LCE23b

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.