David Carraturo's Blog - Posts Tagged "book-launch"
Cameron's Quest - off to production. January 2017 release date
Cameron's Quest is off to production. I hope to have the historical fiction novel available by mid-January. Feedback from line editor was consistent with structure edit - and I am pleased with the end product. Honestly, I loved Columbus Avenue Boys and Cameron Nation, but - Cameron's Quest is my most complete work - and the story is friggin' good.
Line Editor - Rob Bignell - It's an impressive story full of suspense and with interesting characters that readers will root for.
IUniverse - Editorial Evaluation - The novel has a strong overall plotline and sense of place. The story offers a strong theme about family, as friends Chris Cameron, Tony Albanese, and Sal Esposito venture out on their own.
This is the third (final maybe??) part of the story - so the Trilogy of the Columbus Avenue Boys continues!!!!!
If you want to catch up on the stories before January 2017 release date...go to Amazon....makes a great Christmas gift set.
Line Editor - Rob Bignell - It's an impressive story full of suspense and with interesting characters that readers will root for.
IUniverse - Editorial Evaluation - The novel has a strong overall plotline and sense of place. The story offers a strong theme about family, as friends Chris Cameron, Tony Albanese, and Sal Esposito venture out on their own.
This is the third (final maybe??) part of the story - so the Trilogy of the Columbus Avenue Boys continues!!!!!
If you want to catch up on the stories before January 2017 release date...go to Amazon....makes a great Christmas gift set.
Cameron's Quest - Dust Jacket
Cameron's Quest, due for release mid January 2017. Follow the saga of the Columbus Avenue Boys; Chris Cameron, Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese.
Ping me if you would like to review and receive an autographed copy.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Tuckahoe’s “Golden Boy” Chris Cameron had his future all mapped out. He was the big fish in the small pond as a star athlete and academic standout. Off to the University of Texas to play football, he was on track to make his Italian-American mother and Irish father proud. His two blood brothers chose different paths. Soon after high school, Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese were swept into the life of organized crime. Imposing figures, the pair assisted with strong armed activities for their capo. Away from the “life,” Chris Cameron periodically returned to his neighborhood roots to assist his blood brothers in retribution and risk his promising future to avenge violent threats to his lifelong bond. Cameron’s Quest is full of suspense and character twists. Set in the 1980s, get ready to reminisce about the Mets championship season, Reagonomics, John Gotti’s underworld reign and the pop culture of the time. Relive a time when an Italian-American family’s Sunday dinner table was the only setting needed for therapy sessions, interrogations, judgment and jury for any punishment.
DUST JACKET EXCERPT
In between courses, Mike stretched his legs by the counter and refilled his wine glass. Mounds of food were on the table and the four-gallon jug of homemade red was blocked on the counter near the sink by a bowl of salad. With a clear line of sight to the spectacularly lit Christmas tree, he moved his gaze and admired the luminosity. This life was new to him and he considered himself blessed to have been readily accepted. Italian and Irish blood blended well. He prayed his angels would appreciate the closeness, love and support of a family, which should not be taken lightly. The innumerable amount of friends these children would make would come and go, but because of the bloodlines, those within these four walls would forever be bonded. They would stand by each other to face challenges head on, whatever they may be.
He chuckled to himself, so far so good. The boys were getting along fine…just fine. The prized trio was lying bundled amongst the Nativity Manger, presents and ornaments. The superstitious Irishman believed the little ones must have read his mind. Comfortably asleep, Michael proudly viewed Christopher and Baby Salvatore bookending Little Anthony. In a coordinated movement, they extended their arms and grasped for each other.
Michael took a long sip. The alcohol warmed his throat. He took another healthy drink. Turning his gaze to the hubbub of the dinner table, he envisioned how life would transpire for them all before thinking better of his utopian vision. He recalled an old Yiddish proverb spoken to him by a Jewish customer before Hanukkah – Mann traoch, Gott Lauch.
Man plans, God laughs.
Ping me if you would like to review and receive an autographed copy.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Tuckahoe’s “Golden Boy” Chris Cameron had his future all mapped out. He was the big fish in the small pond as a star athlete and academic standout. Off to the University of Texas to play football, he was on track to make his Italian-American mother and Irish father proud. His two blood brothers chose different paths. Soon after high school, Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese were swept into the life of organized crime. Imposing figures, the pair assisted with strong armed activities for their capo. Away from the “life,” Chris Cameron periodically returned to his neighborhood roots to assist his blood brothers in retribution and risk his promising future to avenge violent threats to his lifelong bond. Cameron’s Quest is full of suspense and character twists. Set in the 1980s, get ready to reminisce about the Mets championship season, Reagonomics, John Gotti’s underworld reign and the pop culture of the time. Relive a time when an Italian-American family’s Sunday dinner table was the only setting needed for therapy sessions, interrogations, judgment and jury for any punishment.
DUST JACKET EXCERPT
In between courses, Mike stretched his legs by the counter and refilled his wine glass. Mounds of food were on the table and the four-gallon jug of homemade red was blocked on the counter near the sink by a bowl of salad. With a clear line of sight to the spectacularly lit Christmas tree, he moved his gaze and admired the luminosity. This life was new to him and he considered himself blessed to have been readily accepted. Italian and Irish blood blended well. He prayed his angels would appreciate the closeness, love and support of a family, which should not be taken lightly. The innumerable amount of friends these children would make would come and go, but because of the bloodlines, those within these four walls would forever be bonded. They would stand by each other to face challenges head on, whatever they may be.
He chuckled to himself, so far so good. The boys were getting along fine…just fine. The prized trio was lying bundled amongst the Nativity Manger, presents and ornaments. The superstitious Irishman believed the little ones must have read his mind. Comfortably asleep, Michael proudly viewed Christopher and Baby Salvatore bookending Little Anthony. In a coordinated movement, they extended their arms and grasped for each other.
Michael took a long sip. The alcohol warmed his throat. He took another healthy drink. Turning his gaze to the hubbub of the dinner table, he envisioned how life would transpire for them all before thinking better of his utopian vision. He recalled an old Yiddish proverb spoken to him by a Jewish customer before Hanukkah – Mann traoch, Gott Lauch.
Man plans, God laughs.
Signed Copies of Cameron's Quest, Columbus Avenue Boys and Cameron Nation
For those interested in purchasing signed copies of Cameron's Quest, Columbus Avenue Boys and Cameron Nation - message me on Goodreads or at carraturod@aol.com for better pricing than on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. I get better direct pricing, so can sell Quest for $18, Quest plus one (CN or CAB) for $33 or Quest plus (CAB & CN) for $45. If you are local, I can drop off and if you need it to be mailed the postage would be the only additional cost. Paypal or cash.
Pricing for novels and signed copies
For better pricing and to receive a signed copy of any of the Columbus Avenue Boys trilogy, contact me at carraturod@aol.com.
Over top review of Cameron's Quest - Wow!!
An over-the-top great 5 star review of Cameron's Quest. Better than I could have imagined - sort of!! The growing consensus of a wide swath of men and women of all ages and countries is that this story is LEGIT --- Makes a great Valentines Day present for your significant other!!!!
Amazon or from me directly.
Book signing at Quarry Inn on February 23rd. Hope to see you there.
This part says it all ----but please read on for Dianne from Ocala rave review.
Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life. David Carraturo writes from the heart with bold strokes and a flair for realism. Color me very impressed!
Remember growing up with your best friends by your side? Did you make a pact to always stand together, no matter what? Children grow up, their lives change, the directions their lives go will differ, but for three young boys, their bond remained strong throughout. Take a trip back into the 80’s when life was more focused around family, neighbors and loyalty. Let author David Carraturo lead you through this time, as three friends mature and choose different paths for their lives, straining their bond and testing their mettle in a world that is equal parts cruel, kind and filled with too many choices. Step into CAMERON’S QUEST and discover how life is always willing to throw a curve ball when you least expect it and what you do with that ball can write your destiny.
Chris Cameron was the local hero, his life was spread before him like a midnight cruise chip buffet. He chose university and football as his ticket to a new and better life. He was the Golden Boy of Tuckahoe.
Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese chose a dark path, but one within the comfort zone of the life they grew up in. Unlike Chris, they felt they chose the bird in the hand, but had they? Was organized crime a ticket to anywhere but Hell? They were the enforcers, the muscle and often they would pay the price for their actions. Although far from the grit of the streets he grew up on, Chris knew loyalty and in times of need, he would return to his roots, to the violence, the retribution for slights, but was this the life he wanted? A born peacemaker, was it worth risking all he was trying to accomplish for friends in a shady business?
David Carraturo went for the gold with this one. Step into the era, experience the times, feel the tension and keep one eye open at all times as crime families are pitted against each other, blood is pitted against blood, and loyalty can be bought on a street corner. Real families, real family dynamics, lofty aspirations, fear of change and dancing to the beat of a different drummer, CAMERON’S QUEST feels real, from the world building to the background scenes to the young innocence lost. Can these men return to the bonds they forged so long ago? Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life. David Carraturo writes from the heart with bold strokes and a flair for realism. Color me very impressed!
Amazon or from me directly.
Book signing at Quarry Inn on February 23rd. Hope to see you there.
This part says it all ----but please read on for Dianne from Ocala rave review.
Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life. David Carraturo writes from the heart with bold strokes and a flair for realism. Color me very impressed!
Remember growing up with your best friends by your side? Did you make a pact to always stand together, no matter what? Children grow up, their lives change, the directions their lives go will differ, but for three young boys, their bond remained strong throughout. Take a trip back into the 80’s when life was more focused around family, neighbors and loyalty. Let author David Carraturo lead you through this time, as three friends mature and choose different paths for their lives, straining their bond and testing their mettle in a world that is equal parts cruel, kind and filled with too many choices. Step into CAMERON’S QUEST and discover how life is always willing to throw a curve ball when you least expect it and what you do with that ball can write your destiny.
Chris Cameron was the local hero, his life was spread before him like a midnight cruise chip buffet. He chose university and football as his ticket to a new and better life. He was the Golden Boy of Tuckahoe.
Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese chose a dark path, but one within the comfort zone of the life they grew up in. Unlike Chris, they felt they chose the bird in the hand, but had they? Was organized crime a ticket to anywhere but Hell? They were the enforcers, the muscle and often they would pay the price for their actions. Although far from the grit of the streets he grew up on, Chris knew loyalty and in times of need, he would return to his roots, to the violence, the retribution for slights, but was this the life he wanted? A born peacemaker, was it worth risking all he was trying to accomplish for friends in a shady business?
David Carraturo went for the gold with this one. Step into the era, experience the times, feel the tension and keep one eye open at all times as crime families are pitted against each other, blood is pitted against blood, and loyalty can be bought on a street corner. Real families, real family dynamics, lofty aspirations, fear of change and dancing to the beat of a different drummer, CAMERON’S QUEST feels real, from the world building to the background scenes to the young innocence lost. Can these men return to the bonds they forged so long ago? Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life. David Carraturo writes from the heart with bold strokes and a flair for realism. Color me very impressed!
How I dealt with writers block for Cameron's Quest
In the summer of 2013, I had no intention of writing a follow up story to my two related historical fiction novels, Cameron Nation and Columbus Avenue Boys. While I knew there was a third story there, I had no ideas and quite frankly, I was way too busy with the real world to think about writing again. Then, BOOM, in October of 2013 an idea hit me, and as with my other stories, I began to feverishly write, and write and write.
CAMERON'S QUEST became more of an idea, it was an intertwined, logical third part to the Columbus Avenue Boy's trilogy. I had so much to work with; the character development, the dangling storylines from the other two parts, the setting were all laid out to be expounded on. It truly excited me to write this story.
As with my two other books, I would methodically write one chapter a week, never more. I had no set deadline, so after 22 weeks, I had 20+ chapters written...BUT!!!
No ending was in sight. The story was good - real good - but I had no way to tie it into a ending that would make the reader say - Holy S&%t that was great, I didn't see that coming, etc....
So, the story sat on my hard drive - can it collect dust on a hard drive?? Maybe three - four months without a care for writing. When there is no idea in my head, I just fade into the abyss.
Thankfully, in the fall of 2014, I began speaking with a friend of mine who happened to have read Columbus Avenue Boys and Cameron Nation. We chatted and I let her know I had a third part of the trilogy in draft form in suspended animation. She agreed to read and in our discussion I thanked her for the input and said, "you know what, I want to add you as a character...what type of character do you want me to write for you???" She stated that she thought a cop or equivalent who would be able to set Sal/Tony straight was a suggestion.
While I didn't think that angle was good, it got me thinking. And I took a correlated approach and worked the angle into the story.
The key message I am trying to get across is that discussing my writing with a independent third party was very therapeutic and if I had kept my idea a secret the story would still be collecting dust.
Needless to say, when the fresh character angle was introduced, it sparked me to continue and in the end, the story was way beyond my wildest dreams for satisfaction.
It still took another 2 years to completely finish the story, but that was due to financial constraints and honing my craft as a writer. My story was rock solid but I refused to submit to an editor until the prose was above my history as a B- student.
I hope this helps with writers block. If you want to check out the COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS trilogy and the new release, CAMERON's QUEST please click link below Thank you.
David
https://www.amazon.com/David-Carratur...
CAMERON'S QUEST became more of an idea, it was an intertwined, logical third part to the Columbus Avenue Boy's trilogy. I had so much to work with; the character development, the dangling storylines from the other two parts, the setting were all laid out to be expounded on. It truly excited me to write this story.
As with my two other books, I would methodically write one chapter a week, never more. I had no set deadline, so after 22 weeks, I had 20+ chapters written...BUT!!!
No ending was in sight. The story was good - real good - but I had no way to tie it into a ending that would make the reader say - Holy S&%t that was great, I didn't see that coming, etc....
So, the story sat on my hard drive - can it collect dust on a hard drive?? Maybe three - four months without a care for writing. When there is no idea in my head, I just fade into the abyss.
Thankfully, in the fall of 2014, I began speaking with a friend of mine who happened to have read Columbus Avenue Boys and Cameron Nation. We chatted and I let her know I had a third part of the trilogy in draft form in suspended animation. She agreed to read and in our discussion I thanked her for the input and said, "you know what, I want to add you as a character...what type of character do you want me to write for you???" She stated that she thought a cop or equivalent who would be able to set Sal/Tony straight was a suggestion.
While I didn't think that angle was good, it got me thinking. And I took a correlated approach and worked the angle into the story.
The key message I am trying to get across is that discussing my writing with a independent third party was very therapeutic and if I had kept my idea a secret the story would still be collecting dust.
Needless to say, when the fresh character angle was introduced, it sparked me to continue and in the end, the story was way beyond my wildest dreams for satisfaction.
It still took another 2 years to completely finish the story, but that was due to financial constraints and honing my craft as a writer. My story was rock solid but I refused to submit to an editor until the prose was above my history as a B- student.
I hope this helps with writers block. If you want to check out the COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS trilogy and the new release, CAMERON's QUEST please click link below Thank you.
David
https://www.amazon.com/David-Carratur...
How to create great dialogue and character development
I have had some great reviews of the Columbus Avenue Boys trilogy. With the recent release of CAMERON’S QUEST, the third part of the story, I wanted to take time to provide some insight into my three main characters, Chris Cameron, Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese. What has been nice feedback from reviewers has been the overwhelming opinion that the characters are authentic, fill the page, feel real, and the dialogue is engaging.
I have to admit, the Columbus Avenue Boys are MY BOYS. I loved writing about them so much – that heck…I wrote three stories about different parts of their fictional lives.
Or was it really made up? Were they fictional? Hmmmm.
Character development and realistic dialogue are my writing forte. I have read many novels over the year and the glaring annoyance of mine is that when I read contrived, out of place dialogue or traits, it sets me off. As such, I have gone to great lengths to give a heartbeat to my people.
Taking the best, worst, intriguing aspects of you, your family, friends, acquaintances and co-workers is what I do. If you are in my path when I am in the zone of writing, most likely your quirks, traits, comments, appearances, etc. will make it into my story – and if lucky---into the entire trilogy. To add length and depth to characters – combine these people in your life to make one super cocktail or multiple memorable pro/antagonists or supporting cast.
Chris Cameron, my antagonist is for all intents and purposes…I am him or he is ME. No, I am not a high caliber, division one athlete who was top of the class and who eventually became a billionaire, hedge fund manager who won the World Series of Poker and then became the greatest president – ever. But, all the traits of Chris are what I am, and I simply extrapolated out my dreams, ambitions, etc. I played football in college – but division three, back in the early 1980s. So, I lived vicariously through Chris. I played in the World Series of Poker in 2006 but lost after four levels – (curse you pocket Aces!). I used this experience to play out the entire first section of my debut novel, CAMERON NATION. The mannerisms, dialogue, gestures of poker players were blended into the story. David Einhorn, a famous hedge fund manager played in the event. His experience inspired a development of Chris Cameron. Einhorn wore a t-shirt with the hand prints of his children and he donated his winnings to charity (a huge part of my character!!!)
Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese are twin like behemoths. Giantsized-supersized bruisers and organized crime enforcers, nevertheless, I had to make them unique. Heck, my wedding party supplied most of what I needed to tap into (as well as the profile of a few acquaintances from my town that are now in the slammer for murder or dead). Sal has many of the same traits, angst and mannerisms of my best friend-Craig Esposito. A singer, with a passion for cooking, family angst as a kid defined his personality. My other buddy Gary-walks around with eighteen inch biceps and drove a 1973 Cadillac when we were teenagers –very easy to incorporate into a nostalgic 1980s storyline. Many days of ours were spent lifting weights at a musclehead gym.
Tony Albanese may make you poop in your pants if he was to come near you on a shadowy street, but he is really a fun loving great guy. Emotional to the core, Tony was taken from my cousin who cries at almost every event – funeral, wedding, ribbon cutting ceremony, you get the picture. I love this type of emotion. I had to add the terrifying appearance of my other teddy bear buddy Joe V to the mix and the ferocious temper of my other giant friend, Jamie as well to round him out.
Dialogue from events in your life can lead to great moments in a story and make a character tug at your heart. In 1995, my wife and I went to Las Vegas for our one-year anniversary. I was playing poker one day and sat next to an elderly gentleman. The guy was hunched over and never spoke as he played. As he was scooping in chips against a 20-something drunk guy, the 20-something said “old man, you’re kicking my ass!” Without skipping abeat, the old man said “I haven’t even started kicking your ass yet.” Boom, this fun moment was put in the memory bank for seventeen years before written as an early line for my Vincent Scala character.
I hope this helps with your characters. If you want to see how my Columbus Avenue Boys come to life, check out my work.
https://www.amazon.com/David-Carratur...
I have to admit, the Columbus Avenue Boys are MY BOYS. I loved writing about them so much – that heck…I wrote three stories about different parts of their fictional lives.
Or was it really made up? Were they fictional? Hmmmm.
Character development and realistic dialogue are my writing forte. I have read many novels over the year and the glaring annoyance of mine is that when I read contrived, out of place dialogue or traits, it sets me off. As such, I have gone to great lengths to give a heartbeat to my people.
Taking the best, worst, intriguing aspects of you, your family, friends, acquaintances and co-workers is what I do. If you are in my path when I am in the zone of writing, most likely your quirks, traits, comments, appearances, etc. will make it into my story – and if lucky---into the entire trilogy. To add length and depth to characters – combine these people in your life to make one super cocktail or multiple memorable pro/antagonists or supporting cast.
Chris Cameron, my antagonist is for all intents and purposes…I am him or he is ME. No, I am not a high caliber, division one athlete who was top of the class and who eventually became a billionaire, hedge fund manager who won the World Series of Poker and then became the greatest president – ever. But, all the traits of Chris are what I am, and I simply extrapolated out my dreams, ambitions, etc. I played football in college – but division three, back in the early 1980s. So, I lived vicariously through Chris. I played in the World Series of Poker in 2006 but lost after four levels – (curse you pocket Aces!). I used this experience to play out the entire first section of my debut novel, CAMERON NATION. The mannerisms, dialogue, gestures of poker players were blended into the story. David Einhorn, a famous hedge fund manager played in the event. His experience inspired a development of Chris Cameron. Einhorn wore a t-shirt with the hand prints of his children and he donated his winnings to charity (a huge part of my character!!!)
Sal Esposito and Tony Albanese are twin like behemoths. Giantsized-supersized bruisers and organized crime enforcers, nevertheless, I had to make them unique. Heck, my wedding party supplied most of what I needed to tap into (as well as the profile of a few acquaintances from my town that are now in the slammer for murder or dead). Sal has many of the same traits, angst and mannerisms of my best friend-Craig Esposito. A singer, with a passion for cooking, family angst as a kid defined his personality. My other buddy Gary-walks around with eighteen inch biceps and drove a 1973 Cadillac when we were teenagers –very easy to incorporate into a nostalgic 1980s storyline. Many days of ours were spent lifting weights at a musclehead gym.
Tony Albanese may make you poop in your pants if he was to come near you on a shadowy street, but he is really a fun loving great guy. Emotional to the core, Tony was taken from my cousin who cries at almost every event – funeral, wedding, ribbon cutting ceremony, you get the picture. I love this type of emotion. I had to add the terrifying appearance of my other teddy bear buddy Joe V to the mix and the ferocious temper of my other giant friend, Jamie as well to round him out.
Dialogue from events in your life can lead to great moments in a story and make a character tug at your heart. In 1995, my wife and I went to Las Vegas for our one-year anniversary. I was playing poker one day and sat next to an elderly gentleman. The guy was hunched over and never spoke as he played. As he was scooping in chips against a 20-something drunk guy, the 20-something said “old man, you’re kicking my ass!” Without skipping abeat, the old man said “I haven’t even started kicking your ass yet.” Boom, this fun moment was put in the memory bank for seventeen years before written as an early line for my Vincent Scala character.
I hope this helps with your characters. If you want to see how my Columbus Avenue Boys come to life, check out my work.
https://www.amazon.com/David-Carratur...
Book Signing this week
Please join me for the CAMERON’s QUEST book signing, this Thursday, Feb 23rd at the Quarry Restaurant in Tuckahoe. I will also have copies of COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS and CAMERON NATION available for purchase. If you cannot make it and would like a signed copy, message me.
Review highlights:
CAMERON’s QUEST
• a tantalizing and addictive story of best friends who suddenly find themselves on different roads in life.
• Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life.
• I could easily see this book play out as a movie, much like A Bronx Tale. It would be very cool to see on a screen.
COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS
• a riveting tale of criminal intrigue, highly recommended reading.
• A mob story with the prerequisite hits, casinos and Italian food, but augmented by a strong sense of camaraderie.
• The only thing I don't like about this book, is that I am done reading it, and now I am left to wait for the next book from Carraturo. He has obviously found a style of writing that really works and his story development is A-MAZING!
•
CAMERON NATION
• I had a hard time putting it down and did not from page 151 until I finished page 305, the end. I have recommended it to pretty much all my friends
• Everyone should read this book! You will come away with a renewed sense of pride in, and hope for, a once-again great America. My only question is: Where is Chris Cameron? We need him!
• Mr Carraturo felt that Columbus Ave Boys was his better novel. I disagree. This book is so relevant today and serves as a great learning tool. Oh, if only we could have a President with policies like Chris Cameron
Review highlights:
CAMERON’s QUEST
• a tantalizing and addictive story of best friends who suddenly find themselves on different roads in life.
• Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life.
• I could easily see this book play out as a movie, much like A Bronx Tale. It would be very cool to see on a screen.
COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS
• a riveting tale of criminal intrigue, highly recommended reading.
• A mob story with the prerequisite hits, casinos and Italian food, but augmented by a strong sense of camaraderie.
• The only thing I don't like about this book, is that I am done reading it, and now I am left to wait for the next book from Carraturo. He has obviously found a style of writing that really works and his story development is A-MAZING!
•
CAMERON NATION
• I had a hard time putting it down and did not from page 151 until I finished page 305, the end. I have recommended it to pretty much all my friends
• Everyone should read this book! You will come away with a renewed sense of pride in, and hope for, a once-again great America. My only question is: Where is Chris Cameron? We need him!
• Mr Carraturo felt that Columbus Ave Boys was his better novel. I disagree. This book is so relevant today and serves as a great learning tool. Oh, if only we could have a President with policies like Chris Cameron
Snapshot of reviews of my trilogy and book signing reminder
Please join me for the CAMERON’s QUEST book signing, this Thursday, Feb 23rd at the Quarry Restaurant in Tuckahoe. I will also have copies of COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS and CAMERON NATION available for purchase. If you cannot make it and would like a signed copy, message me.
A hobby that has been legitimized – I am a good writer!!! Check out the reviews and see for yourself.
Review highlights:
CAMERON’s QUEST
• a tantalizing and addictive story of best friends who suddenly find themselves on different roads in life.
• Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life.
• I could easily see this book play out as a movie, much like A Bronx Tale. It would be very cool to see on a screen.
COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS
• a riveting tale of criminal intrigue, highly recommended reading.
• A mob story with the prerequisite hits, casinos and Italian food, but augmented by a strong sense of camaraderie.
• The only thing I don't like about this book, is that I am done reading it, and now I am left to wait for the next book from Carraturo. He has obviously found a style of writing that really works and his story development is A-MAZING!
CAMERON NATION
• I had a hard time putting it down and did not from page 151 until I finished page 305, the end. I have recommended it to pretty much all my friends
• Everyone should read this book! You will come away with a renewed sense of pride in, and hope for, a once-again great America. My only question is: Where is Chris Cameron? We need him!
• Mr Carraturo felt that Columbus Ave Boys was his better novel. I disagree. This book is so relevant today and serves as a great learning tool. Oh, if only we could have a President with policies like Chris Cameron
A hobby that has been legitimized – I am a good writer!!! Check out the reviews and see for yourself.
Review highlights:
CAMERON’s QUEST
• a tantalizing and addictive story of best friends who suddenly find themselves on different roads in life.
• Mesmerizing reading, time stamped with actual events and just waiting to be elevated to the top of the gem pile, an amazing read about life.
• I could easily see this book play out as a movie, much like A Bronx Tale. It would be very cool to see on a screen.
COLUMBUS AVENUE BOYS
• a riveting tale of criminal intrigue, highly recommended reading.
• A mob story with the prerequisite hits, casinos and Italian food, but augmented by a strong sense of camaraderie.
• The only thing I don't like about this book, is that I am done reading it, and now I am left to wait for the next book from Carraturo. He has obviously found a style of writing that really works and his story development is A-MAZING!
CAMERON NATION
• I had a hard time putting it down and did not from page 151 until I finished page 305, the end. I have recommended it to pretty much all my friends
• Everyone should read this book! You will come away with a renewed sense of pride in, and hope for, a once-again great America. My only question is: Where is Chris Cameron? We need him!
• Mr Carraturo felt that Columbus Ave Boys was his better novel. I disagree. This book is so relevant today and serves as a great learning tool. Oh, if only we could have a President with policies like Chris Cameron
Exerpt from Cameron's Quest - a real life moment.
Below is an excerpt from Cameron' Quest. This section is a good snapshot of my writing style for the entire Columbus Avenue Boys trilogy. If you read to its end, you will probably have some moisture forming in your eyes - (it is not dust). And, the remedy will probably be to click the link and buy the book---books.....
MAY 7, 1987
Chris could not hold back his excitement. On any other day, he would saunter back to his apartment after a late afternoon workout. Not today, he was bouncing with energy and needed to share his euphoria. He had busted his ass, and for the first time had earned A’s for all of his classes. After a killer weight session of squats, and dead lifts, he spoke with his political science professor. He needed to pull high marks on the final exam and term paper to push his grade from B+ to an A. The professor praised his paper as one of the finest she had read during her seven years at UT.
The thesis was focused on the Great Depression. Chris had supported his contention that the big government policies of President Hoover and continued with more draconian measures by President Roosevelt had prolonged the misery. If not for the build-up of the military related to World War Two, the United States economy may have not recovered to the war production level. His analysis highlighted the New Deal as a failure. The unemployment rate rose from 14% to 19%, and the public works programs accomplished little of significance. This big government spending strategy was implemented via the recommendation of British economist John Maynard Keynes to lift the country out of its economic doldrums. His research disproved Keynesian economic policy and trumpeted supply-side economic policy as more effective in turning the country around following the 1920-1921 depression. President Harding had cut personal income taxes and reduced federal government spending. After Harding’s death, President Coolidge continued on this course, and the Roaring Twenties brought along a period of prosperity. His conclusion re-emphasized the argument with sound examples of the current success of Reaganomics supply-side doctrine.
Taking the stairs three at a time, Chris was sweating profusely. Breathing heavily, he opened the door of the apartment to the sound of a CNN anchor parroting the breaking news of presidential candidate, Gary Hart’s higher office ambitions crumbling. Mr. Hart’s love affair with Donna Rice aboard the yacht Money Business had been exposed.
“This crap’s been in the news for days. Doesn’t CNN have anything better to report on?” Chris derided the report as he walked to the kitchenette and the refrigerator full of beer. Sitting on opposite ends of the couch, Ron and J.R. had remained silent and did not respond to his current events banter. J.R. stood and clicked the television off.
“Hey, turn on Cheers. I hear Sam’s going to ask Diane to marry him tonight,” Chris howled.
J.R. somberly called out, “Yo CeeJay, sit.”
“Dudes, get ready to party tonight; my first 4.0 for a semester!” Ignoring the sedateness, Chris took a sip from a cold Shiner Bock, clicked the TV set back on and changed the channel to NBC before plopping in the recliner adjacent to his roommates.
“CeeJay, your mom called. I took the message while you were out,” Ron-Ron paused, his eyes were closed and his voice cracked. “Your grandfather had a stroke…sorry buddy…he died an hour ago.”
Not another word was said. Lost in the moment, they collectively sniffled and wiped tears away. Chris had emotionally supported his roommates, for J.R. and his mom’s cancer treatment and last year after Ron’s sister had been injured in a car accident. They came from different worlds but had formed a bond that would never waver.
As the shock of the death of man who Chris had called Grampy as a toddler was being fully processed, happy memories darted through his brain…the image of him as a baby sucking on a bottle while resting on his Grampy’s lap on their plastic-covered couch...a proud old man bundled in a winter jack braving the elements while watching his grandson play a late fall, football game...a black and white wedding photo situated on top of the living room fireplace, oh my God, after fifty two years of marriage how was his grandmother going to survive…a quartet of men happily toasting wine; Joe Cavazzi sharing a moment with his three paisanos.
The apropos lyrics to the introduction of Cheers sung out. Chris placed his face in the palms of his hands. He had to get back to Tuckahoe as fast as he could; Gary Portney was perceptive - Sometimes you wannabe where everybody knows your name.
https://www.amazon.com/Camerons-Quest...
MAY 7, 1987
Chris could not hold back his excitement. On any other day, he would saunter back to his apartment after a late afternoon workout. Not today, he was bouncing with energy and needed to share his euphoria. He had busted his ass, and for the first time had earned A’s for all of his classes. After a killer weight session of squats, and dead lifts, he spoke with his political science professor. He needed to pull high marks on the final exam and term paper to push his grade from B+ to an A. The professor praised his paper as one of the finest she had read during her seven years at UT.
The thesis was focused on the Great Depression. Chris had supported his contention that the big government policies of President Hoover and continued with more draconian measures by President Roosevelt had prolonged the misery. If not for the build-up of the military related to World War Two, the United States economy may have not recovered to the war production level. His analysis highlighted the New Deal as a failure. The unemployment rate rose from 14% to 19%, and the public works programs accomplished little of significance. This big government spending strategy was implemented via the recommendation of British economist John Maynard Keynes to lift the country out of its economic doldrums. His research disproved Keynesian economic policy and trumpeted supply-side economic policy as more effective in turning the country around following the 1920-1921 depression. President Harding had cut personal income taxes and reduced federal government spending. After Harding’s death, President Coolidge continued on this course, and the Roaring Twenties brought along a period of prosperity. His conclusion re-emphasized the argument with sound examples of the current success of Reaganomics supply-side doctrine.
Taking the stairs three at a time, Chris was sweating profusely. Breathing heavily, he opened the door of the apartment to the sound of a CNN anchor parroting the breaking news of presidential candidate, Gary Hart’s higher office ambitions crumbling. Mr. Hart’s love affair with Donna Rice aboard the yacht Money Business had been exposed.
“This crap’s been in the news for days. Doesn’t CNN have anything better to report on?” Chris derided the report as he walked to the kitchenette and the refrigerator full of beer. Sitting on opposite ends of the couch, Ron and J.R. had remained silent and did not respond to his current events banter. J.R. stood and clicked the television off.
“Hey, turn on Cheers. I hear Sam’s going to ask Diane to marry him tonight,” Chris howled.
J.R. somberly called out, “Yo CeeJay, sit.”
“Dudes, get ready to party tonight; my first 4.0 for a semester!” Ignoring the sedateness, Chris took a sip from a cold Shiner Bock, clicked the TV set back on and changed the channel to NBC before plopping in the recliner adjacent to his roommates.
“CeeJay, your mom called. I took the message while you were out,” Ron-Ron paused, his eyes were closed and his voice cracked. “Your grandfather had a stroke…sorry buddy…he died an hour ago.”
Not another word was said. Lost in the moment, they collectively sniffled and wiped tears away. Chris had emotionally supported his roommates, for J.R. and his mom’s cancer treatment and last year after Ron’s sister had been injured in a car accident. They came from different worlds but had formed a bond that would never waver.
As the shock of the death of man who Chris had called Grampy as a toddler was being fully processed, happy memories darted through his brain…the image of him as a baby sucking on a bottle while resting on his Grampy’s lap on their plastic-covered couch...a proud old man bundled in a winter jack braving the elements while watching his grandson play a late fall, football game...a black and white wedding photo situated on top of the living room fireplace, oh my God, after fifty two years of marriage how was his grandmother going to survive…a quartet of men happily toasting wine; Joe Cavazzi sharing a moment with his three paisanos.
The apropos lyrics to the introduction of Cheers sung out. Chris placed his face in the palms of his hands. He had to get back to Tuckahoe as fast as he could; Gary Portney was perceptive - Sometimes you wannabe where everybody knows your name.
https://www.amazon.com/Camerons-Quest...
