Lynelle Clark's Blog, page 105

A Review for 'Be Ye Transformed' by Sheldon D Newton.

Be Ye Transformed Virtual Book Tour
with Sheldon D. Newton
Jan 6-17, 2014

ASIN: B00FMFGB06
ISBN: 978-1938807336
Publisher: Zoe Life Publishing; 1st edition
Genre: Christian Non-Fiction   


AuthorTour Schedule: 

About The Book And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)

Do you desire to have an exciting and intimate walk with the Lord? Then Be Ye Transformed is a must read. In this life-transforming book, author, Bible Teacher and pastor Sheldon D. Newton clearly lays out the path to victorious Christian living.

He addresses such vital subjects as:
. How to renew your mind to God’s Will & Ways
. How to bring the body under subjection to God’s Word
. How to Pray Effectively & Receive Answers
. How to forgive from the heart
. The Power of Practicing the Presence of Jesus
. How to Read, Study and Meditate in God’s Word,
and so much more.

The principles in this book will change your life permanently for the better if they are applied. Get your copy today and learn how to walk with God in a powerful way. Be transformed.


About The Author Sheldon D. Newton was born again at the age of thirteen and filled with the Holy Spirit shortly thereafter. After receiving the Call of God into the ministry, he began teaching and preaching the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ at the age of fifteen, and has been actively involved in ministry for over thirty years. His burning desire is to see believers established in the faith, rooted and grounded in Christ Jesus, living transformed lives through the application of timeless godly principles.This Divine Calling continues to take him throughout the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, and around the world, proclaiming that Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life.
Bishop Newton is a pastor, teacher and seminar lecturer. He is the noted author of various life-changing books, including: Humility and the Honor of God, The Sword of the Spirit, Diligence to the Things of God, Be Ye Transformed, How to Live for Christ As A Youth, My Name is Jealous, and Practical Principles of Success.Bishop Newton is the senior pastor of Jesus Christ Centered Ministries International, in Nassau, Bahamas and also serves as overseer and advisor to various churches and ministries. His ministry’s motto is: “to feed the people of God with the Word of God, raising up effective leaders, living by the standard of His Word and the Utterance of His Voice, manifesting His power, setting others free.”  Bishop Newton resides in Nassau, Bahamas with his wife and two children.
Social Links: Email Address: pgmchristianbooks@yahoo.com
Website www.sheldondnewton.org
Twitter link twitter.com/sheldondnewton
Facebook link www.facebook.com/sheldon.newton


Buy Links:
Amazon e-book: / Amazon paperback: 

Hosted by: WLN Book Tours: http://wnlbooktours.com/

5 Star Review
I received this book from the touring host for an honest review. The title a well fitting name for the book you can read with your Bible. A Bible study to understand how to “Be ye Transformed.”In the author’s own words, this book is for all of those who hunger and thirst for a real, dynamic and intimate walk with the true and living God. If you desire an upright and blessed walk with God the creator of the universe and serious about your destiny in life, this book is a definite tool to use.The author stays close to the word of God, using it as reference throughout the book. I really enjoyed the simplicity but honesty in the book making you testing yourself in all aspects of the Christian life.Everything is explained in a way that everyone can understand applying the principles brought forward in this book. It is a step-by-step walk through every step of the believer’s life since the day you get borne again. The author has used his life as a reference in many places so we can easily identify with what is brought forth in the book. All I can say is that this is definitely a Holy Spirit inspired book, thanks for your obedience.

Interview with John Emil Augistine plus review from his newly released book 'From the Abyss'

Interview Questions 
Once again John, thank you for the honor of adding my name in your book. That really had me going, still do J.
We all have a story to tell, some, like me, do not like to talk about my experiences. I find it difficult and sometimes even heartbreaking to talk about it, so I avoid the subject about me wherever I can. What prompted you in doing this and being so open about it?
I think the openness happened over the course of the last 25 years while I was writing songs. I learned to be as genuine as possible with my lyrics and music, and the genuineness had a snowball effect. The more genuine I was, the more I learned about myself through writing. Then I really got deep down to what was really going on inside, and the deep down stuff turned out to be fairly universal. I was watching a documentary yesterday called “Mister Rogers and Me.” In that documentary, Fred Rogers tells Benjamin Wagner: “Deep and simple is far more essential than shallow and complex.” In my experience, the deeper down you go, the more you see the sameness in people. So I have come to think, why not be open? Obviously, one answer is because of the inevitable harsh criticism, which I have certainly been subjected to, but I don’t expect everyone to understand or relate to this story. Those people who don’t and are vocal about it will naturally be harsh. Understanding and empathizing are difficult. Criticizing is easy. Just because someone criticizes, it doesn’t mean my story isn’t helpful to someone else. And that will be true of all our stories.
Are you still friends with Emily, the lady that introduced you to Cindi and also helped you in many ways? If so, what does her friendship mean to you?
I haven’t talked to Emily since 2001. She was the one woman who I thought had it all together and had so many characteristics I longed for in a girlfriend/wife. What I learned, and I probably won’t get to this in the rest of the series, was that she didn’t have everything. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I ended up finding girls who were even closer to what I needed/wanted than she was. I do miss her positivity once in a while, and I imagine we will run into each other again, but I haven’t actively perused a reunion.
In the beginning of the book, you said, you realized that Cindi was trouble and you thought, at the tender age of 25, that you could help her. Why did you think you could?
Helping is in my nature, and I thought she was worth my trying to help. I did see many good signs at first. She had been in Green Peace and was quite idealistic in many ways. I thought that was really cool. The only problem was she actually felt that things like Green Peace or being an organ donor were big mistakes. I thought, “Here’s this really genuinely good person who puts other people first,” and the whole time she was regretting doing those things. She got talked into that stuff and resented the people who talked her into everything I admired about her.
The young boy that acted foolishly with Maggie, is he still alive or did he become a grown-up, all serious and wise? Giggles
I’m not as much of an idiot as I was! (My wife would argue that point, by the way.) I absolutely still goof around with my kids, though. We can get on Mamma’s nerves if we horse around for too long, so I do eventually have to go back to grown up mode or find another place to live. J
Throughout the book, you mentioned signs. Signs that were posted throughout your life, warning you but you never did see them for what they were, and when you did, it seemed to have backfired in any case. How do you feel about signs now?
I think we all see signs. They are lessons that need to be learned. There’s no way to understand them until we go through the experience.
Has it become a way of life now and do you teach your children about their importance as well?
I have told Charles, my son with my ex, that he is meant to learn something from all this. I don’t know what it is, because it’s something that is specifically for him to learn. Still, I tell him he will have an opportunity to help others with it once it is learned.
Your tenacity to stick around and endure, which in itself, is not a bad thing to do. It shows you are dependable as a person, husband and father. Is it still evident in your life today, or did you learn to let go, as your father taught you…you know to walk away, choosing your fights?
There are those for whom you should not stick around. Those who will use every opportunity to take advantage of you. With Cindi, it’s always money. Still. I try to be as fair as possible with her and Charles, but you will read in later books how far she will go and how awful she can make life for me. So I stick around with those who are worth sticking around for. I keep Cindi at arm’s length. Also, after Cindi, I had a very tough decision to stick around with my current wife, but that’s in the next book.
When you were 25 you had a specific idea about paternal instincts, do you still feel the same, now that you are older?
I had no idea about paternal instinct at 25 except for feeling it from my dad, grandpas, and a few teachers and coworkers. When I thought about it over time, I realized it was another version of what I got from my mom and grandmas and friends’ moms. But it wasn’t maternal like I saw in the moms. It was paternal. It was genuine caring but in a dad kind of way. Men and women can both be very caring, and we all have to remember that we all have the ability in us…and to use it!
Are you by nature a patient man?
Absolutely not. I am still learning patience. My wife is my teacher.
The question what is right and what is wrong (what is right for the one is maybe wrong for the next person, as we could clearly see in your marriage with her), guilt, telling the white lie, responsibility, accountability, pressure to perform as a human being, we all struggle with these emotions and feelings from time to time. In your case it seems to have backfired majorly in your life with Cindi, does it still plague you or do you handle the situations differently?
I’m a people pleaser, so I still struggle with pleasing everyone, which, of course, isn’t possible. I want everyone to be happy and pleased, but in real life, there’s always someone who is going to have a problem with something. So if something I do backfires, that’s just the way it is. I feel bad, but I have to stop beating myself up while continuing to do positive things. Unfortunately, what is positive for one person may be negative for another, so I try to make sure I am not coercing or tricking someone into doing something my way in the name of a positive outcome.
Now looking back, what would you have done differently?
Nothing. I couldn’t expect that of myself. I did the best I could.
Are you still this honest as you were with Kim, telling her about your problems so that she knew what she was getting involved with? On the other hand, do you hold back your feelings, thoughts and struggles?
Depends who I’m talking to. Like probably a lot of people, I have people who I can really talk to and they know my real feelings about things despite the importance of conformity in certain situations. I’m honest with everyone until he or she proves he or she can’t handle my honesty. Then I just try to be silent around such a person. For example, I have been perfectly honest with my boss and his boss in the warehouse where I work. My boss can handle it, and we have a great friendship. His boss can’t handle my honesty. I don’t fit the model in the management classes he took. I mean, they really didn’t cover someone like me. So I just stay away from him. If he wants my opinion, I’ll give it, but he never likes it. Our relationship is what Martin Buber would call I-it. He sees me as an ‘it.’ The relationship my boss and I have is I-you. We see each other as equal humans and can talk more deeply because it is natural for us. I-you interaction is paramount to understanding each other.
To isolate yourself is a protective meganism that many people have, I know I talk of personal experience, it automatically kicks in when you are not in a good place, how did this benefit you in the long run?
Isolation didn’t work very well for me. I need time to meditate on my own to understand my life, but I need my family and friends to understand myself. Both are necessary.
Complete the sentence: To exist without living…
I don’t know. You have to jump in and live. Otherwise you are sheltered from everything in life and learn nothing.
To turn back is like a dog that returns to its own vomit, very crude I know but you returned to Cindi, still thinking that you could help, be the father, be the husband but matters worsened, now looking back what is your thoughts about that?
That is what I was taught to do. “For better or worse.” However, what works in one situation does not always work in another. What was right for one person cannot become a mandate for another. You have to learn to trust yourself and practice following your own heart. Practicing that means you will make mistakes. Returning was my mistake, but I learned from it and can’t say it wasn’t helpful. Now I can turn around and share what I learned from bad decisions like that.
How do the lessons you have learned benefit you in your relationship with your wife and children now?
I have learned to trust my wife, and that wasn’t easy. I had some serious trauma because of my first marriage, and my older children had to live through some of the effects of my recovery, as did my current wife. I hope they have at least learned that marriage takes work and is never perfect but can turn out well when both partners are committed to one another. My younger ones missed a lot of that turmoil and have had a more secure childhood. I hope that benefits them.


MusicMusic played a huge part during this time and at one stage, you had to let it go to save whatever was left of your marriage. Do you still find solace in the writing process, performing and making music?
I do, although I am so obsessive about completing my projects, that it makes me hard to live with. I have cut back quite a bit in terms of performing, writing, and recording. I’m in my life and I have to live it.
Are you still fearful that people will not come to a show?
I don’t care about numbers anymore. The people who matter to me are the ones who interact positively with me. Quality over quantity.
It seems to me that music gives you the voice to speak what is dear to your heart, please elaborate on that.
Music is spiritual. You hear someone’s spirit coming through music, no matter what kind of music it is. I learned early to allow my spirit to take over for my ‘ego’ and let the music happen. I was much happier when I learned to do that, and now I do it in all aspects of my life. I allow myself to be genuine.
Do you still lose yourself in the music so that you forget your obligations?
Absolutely. There is a feeling I get, and if it is strong enough, I have to follow it. I think you see that a lot in people who make things. Something pulls you and makes you do it.
What are you working on now?
Your interview. There is always a project, and sometimes that drives my wife crazy. In terms of books, I have From the Abyss I-III ready for editing (most of II is edited already by Sarah Wallace), and I am about a quarter of the way through a first draft of IV which will be the last one for a while. My wife and I are also collaborating on a kids’ book. Also, I am in talks with a somewhat well-known music group to help me record the album for book 1. All the music I wrote at the time the events of book 1 were happening will be recorded in a very cool way. I’m excited to start on that later this year. I have a “Best Of” out there and a few others coming out with a couple groups with whom I used to work. I’m lining up a few radio spots for the music stuff as well as the book stuff, so there is a lot going on. I never stop. Whatever I am supposed to do, when I feel it, I do it.
How do you define creativity?
Creativity is what happens when we ask, “What if?” There is nothing more important than starting there. Everything starts with that question.


Writing careerWhat is next, will you continue with the autobiography/non-fiction or will you try something new, maybe fiction?
I can’t write fiction per se. I have this need to be truthful and authentic in everything, and I just can’t do that with fiction. I will do whatever I am supposed to do. I have no idea what it will be next.
What is your favorite genre to read?
I don’t know about genre, but I have books that I constantly read. I read a book called Words from a Man of No Words by Shree Rajneesh. I also read I and Thou by Martin Buber quite often. I am going to go back and read Thoughts Are Things by Prentice Mulford again. I want to read Bo Lozoff’s Deep and Simple.

Favorite author?
My curve-ball answer is Brian Wilson.
Describe your writing process.
I need to have someone who I know is paying attention. Then I can start. In terms of songwriting, I always have had one undying fan, and that was a guy with whom I sometimes gigged and recorded named Pete. When I recorded something, I could think at least Pete would be interested in hearing it. But every project is different. There’s no one process. There’s probably a feeling that starts it, something I am compelled to do regardless of anything else. Then I do it and people usually get mad at me for spending the time, but if I know there is someone who will at least objectively look at what I did, then I feel justified.
     27.  How did/do you teach yourself to write?
By listening. I listen to people say things, colloquialisms, sounds of peoples’ voices, rhythms, tones. I listen to a lot of music, and I used to model my lyrics after people I listened to. Paul Simon and Van Dyke Parks were the two big ones. Eventually I developed a style of my own, and that’s how I write the books…like lyrics. Everything has a rhythm in my books.
      28.  What aspect of the craft do you think is most difficult to learn?
To be patient and wait for life experience. I wrote a book after college and realized I had not lived long enough to make an impactful ending. That was when I was 25. It took 12 more years before I realized I had lived long enough to amass some life experience to share.
     29.  What has been the most encouraging comment someone has made about your writing?
Whenever someone tells me he or she thinks my book will help someone.
     30.  What is the best and/ or worst part of being a writer?
I would say being called a writer is a negative for me. I hate to be cornered like that. Just because I was writing, I hate to then be defined by that action. We have to package people up like that because we need to categorize in order to explain our world, but it makes me very uncomfortable. I want to just be doing and forget what I have already done or how I will be perceived by categorists.
The positive side I think is simply doing. The best part of anything you do is the doing. I think people don’t realize that always.
      31.  Any advice for struggling writers?
Follow your heart.
      32.  Do you have a favorite spot to read and write?
I guess I don’t have any favorite spots. Wherever I am has to do. I write mostly in the warehouse where I work while waiting for trucks to come in.


Personal Note1.      You are an avid advocate for the Native American people, tell us more about that.
I’ve had a close association with two Lakota elders who call themselves Rainbow Warriors. There is a Lakota prophecy that says once all of us mess up the planet bad enough, there will be warriors of all colors and kinds who unite to make things right. However, if this doesn’t happen, we’ll be in trouble in terms of water and other essential resources. That’s where the rainbow warriors come in, and I have decided to be one because anyone can (and everyone should). I’m trying to tackle my part of it which is turning out to be understanding and discussing abuse and relationships.
2.      Do you have a bucket/ to-do list and would you share at least two things on it?
My and my wife’s goal is to get an RV once our kids get bigger and more self-sufficient (we have a 13, a 12, and two sixes at the moment), and drive across country singing and playing at so-called rest homes or “old folks’ homes.” When my grandpa was in hospice, I looked around and thought, “These people really need music.” So that’s my one and only bucket item.
3.      Most daring thing or experience you have done you would like to share.
I am a daredevil. There is no “most.” When everyone else opts out, I’ll do it. I’m also a ham, so you put daredevil and ham together and watch out. Once it’s done, though, it’s not daring anymore. The most daring thing I want to do is speak to groups about abuse, relationships, and understanding oneself through the writing process. I hope to move into that kind of venue eventually. That, to me, is daring at this moment.

This or that questions: ·         Coffee or Tea – I like both, though I drink far more coffee…black.
·         Sweet or savory – Sweet.
·         Homemade meal or takeout – Anything my wife makes, even if I think I am not going to like it.
·         Winter or summer – Autumn.
·         Night-owl or Early-Bird – Early
·         Telephone or visits – Neither.
·         Which social network do you prefer? Facebook
·         Blogger or website? Website, though I have sporadic blog entries.
·         What does your family say about your career? Supportive or Clueless
Most are clueless, and I get mixed reactions from those who know about it. I think most people think I waste a lot of time and energy on all my projects.
And FinallyMoto/wisdom in life you live by.
Listen to Brian Wilson’s “Love and Mercy.” That’s what I live by.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PISkFEzC5XE

Contact details and buy links of the newest books you would like the readers to know.
Website: http://www.johnedmilaugustine.comAmazon: http://www.amazon.com/From-Abyss-John-Emil-Augustine-ebook/dp/B00H9WCJR4/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnemilaugustineauthorTwitter: https://twitter.com/JohnEmilAugustTrailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0-Ym4tp30g




Blurb
24-year-old John Augustine is looking for a lasting, loving relationship and finds one hidden where he least expects it. Knowing that no relationship is perfect, he walks in with eyes wide open but is unable to see the future swirling with hell and heartache. Amidst the struggles of a new marriage, John begins to realize his wife is far different than the woman he thought he married. Her mental illness soon drags the new family past the point of no return. As a man, John struggles to be strong and tackle their problems single-handedly, though the marital foundation is eroding before his eyes. But once his wife files for divorce, he finds himself in a free-fall. Out of options, he accepts emotional support from an unexpected, beautiful girl. The new relationship leads to trouble, however, before the divorce can be finalized. Swallowed by conflicting pressures, John finds himself at the bottom of an abyss from which reemergence seems more and more unlikely. Will he make it back from the abyss?

John Emil Augustine grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota and toured in his twenties and early thirties with local and national acts; writing, arranging, and performing with notable jazz, blues, gospel, reggae, post funk, prog rock, and folk groups. John has also been a landscaper, mail carrier, English professor, and forklift operator. He currently lives in Minneapolis with his wife and four boys.
5 Star Review
I received this book from the author for and honest review.
I have read the original copy ‘Love seen from Hell’ in early 2012. It was one of my very first reviews in an official capacity. Back then, I was impressed with author John Emil Augustine’s openness and directness as he gave us a glimpse into his life, still am impressed with it.An autobiography that touches the very heart of many failed marriages. Many men just do not talk about this subject, suffering in silence because they believe that nobody would believe them. That people would think they are failures just because they turn the other cheek, you know, not men. John, who has become a dear friend over the past year, destroys this myth, that men must be strong and endure…you know, man-up.His frankness touches the heart, as he discusses openly his own failures, the abuse he suffered, his reasons for leaving his wife, and in the event also his son. Becoming a stronger man, husband, father and friend, which I have the greatest respect for.  Now the book is back under a new name and with the Publisher House, MasterKoda, and a very dear group to my own heart. It is a story of honesty, compassion, love, romance, loss, failure and victory. Questioning believes, coming to the root of all, as he went on this road of self-discovery. Telling his life-story with in an easy writing style, for all to understand. The words flowed easily, making it effortless to understand and he is very direct in his message.  He does not hide certain things to make him look better or gain sympathy, but gives all the gory detail, which lent to the authenticity of the book. 

Clarity of Lines by NR Walker. Excerpt, Character Interview with Cooper Jones, Giveaway and Review.

Book two in the Thomas Elkin series.Sometimes it’s not the two people in a relationship who fight falling in love, sometimes it’s those who love us that fight against it the most.Finally together, forty-four year old Tom, and twenty-two year old Cooper, are ready to show the world they’re together.  They’ve established their relationship is worth it, and want to share it with their families.Both men thought accepting the age difference was their adversity to overcome, and theirs alone. Their loved ones, however, will prove them wrong.
For their families, lines are drawn and start blur.  Through a series of events, life shakes Tom’s foundations, the lines for him have never been clearer.
The Thomas Elkin Series Blurb:When successful New York architect, forty-four year old Thomas Elkin meets twenty-two year old intern Cooper Jones, he had no idea how much his life would change.The blueprints on love, life and careers are sent back to the drawing board as both men realize their plans are about to be re-drawn forever.Generation versus generation, traditional versus contemporary, they’re about to prove to the world that the old and new can be the perfect design.
Goodreads Link - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18754176-clarity-of-linesBuy Links – Totally Bound - https://www.totallybound.com/clarity-of-lines

Excerpt 2:“You nervous?” I asked him.He looked surprised by my question. “No. Should I be?”I smiled at his confidence. “I just don’t think Sofia will be very understanding. No matter what she says, just remember, I’m on your side.”“Ryan’s mom always liked me,” he said.“She likes you as Ryan’s friend, yes,” I told him. “But as my boyfriend…”He shrugged. “And all the guys who’ll be here this weekend?” he asked. “All Ryan’s friends, some of my friends, they’ll all be here too. We’re meeting themas a couple too.”Shit. I hadn’t given that a thought.Then Cooper took his hand off my thigh and looked out of the window as he spoke. “If you don’t want to…”I pulled the car off to the side of the road, right near the driveway to the Casa. I think I startled him. He looked at me, wide-eyed. “Cooper, listen to me,” I said seriously. “I don’t care what anyone else thinks. I know some people will have a hard time with us being together, because we’re gay men, and because of the age difference. But I don’t care. I’m proud to call you my boyfriend. For the life of me I can’t figure out why you’d want to be with me, but you do, and I’m more than happy to walk in there, holding your hand. But I don’t want you to feel pressured.”“I don’t feel pressured,” he said. “And I can’t figure out why you’d want to be with me either, but you do.”I nodded. “Yes, I do.”He smiled, and leaned over the console and kissed me. “Thank you.”I sighed and looked out of the windshield. “Well, this is it.”Cooper followed my gaze, to the stone gate posts, to the chiselled sandstone sign on the post that read Casa de Elkin.“It’s named after you?”I nodded. “I designed this house,” I told him. “We named it Casa de Elkin, but have called it the Casa for years.”Cooper gave me a weak smile. “Well then,” he said, trying to sound upbeat. “Let’s do this.”I slipped the car into first gear and pulled into the drive. I parked the car near the closed garage doors and by the time I’d popped the trunk, Ryan was walking out to meet us. He gave me a bit of a hug, then bumped fists with Cooper. “Hey,” he said. “Most of the guys will get here in the morning. Mom said it might be better if they all crash in the pool room, or wherever they pass out,” he said with a knowing smile. “But you guys have a guest room in the house.”A guest room. Ryan looked at me a little apologetically. “Sorry.”“Don’t you apologise,” I told him. “It’s not my house anymore.”We grabbed our bags and the gift box from the trunk and walked towards the front door. Cooper asked me quietly, “Have you been back here in the last five years?”“I spent two weeks here right after we separated,” I told him. “But not since then.”“Come on,” Ryan said, opening the door. He turned to us and whispered, “Mom’s in the kitchen.”I took a deep breath and followed Ryan through the front living room and into the large open kitchen, where Sofia was dicing fruit.She looked well. She was wearing a white dress and her trademark gold jewellery and her brown hair was pulled back in a ponytail. She looked at me, then at Ryan and finally at Cooper. She recognised him immediately. “Oh my, Cooper? Is that you?”“Mrs Elkin,” he said politely.She gave me a tight smile, but then leaned in and kissed Cooper’s cheek. “It’s so good to see you. Ryan never mentioned you were coming.” Then she looked at me. “Did you bring Cooper with you? I thought you were bringing your friend.”There was a beat of absolute silence then I said, “I did.” Sofia looked at me then at Ryan and Cooper, then back to me. “I brought Cooper…my boyfriend.”Sofia laughed, but when I took Cooper’s hand, her smile died a slow, painful death. She looked kind of horrified. “Is this some kind of joke?”
Author Bio – I am many things; a mother, a wife, a sister, a writer.I have pretty, pretty boys who live in my head, who don’t let me sleep at night unless I give them life with words.
I like it when they do dirty, dirty things…but I like it even more when they fall in love.
I used to think having people in my head talking to me was weird, until one day I happened across other writers who told me it was normal.
I’ve been writing ever since…Where can you find me?
Author Links –Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/N.R.WalkerAuthorTwitter - https://twitter.com/NR_WalkerGoodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5819370.N_R_WalkerEmail – nrwalker2103@gmail.com

My 4 Star Review
I received the ARC from the Touring Host for an honest review.
The second book in the series and a wonderful addition. Where Elements of Retrofit stopped, Clarity of Lines continued, giving us a closer look at the relationship and the effect it had on their families. Again a fast paced short story that you read quickly, filled with funny antidotes as Thomas and Cooper grow more comfortable with each other.Coming out, unashamed and deeply in love, the two men's approach to the relationship was believable, the characters growing as you connect more with them. A touching story that pulled at the heartstrings as they came to grips with Thomas father's death. Again, I was really impressed with the younger man's character throughout the story. Especially with his ability to take charge and do what was right and needed at the right time. Showing maturity and responsibility as the story unfolds. His ability to connect with people without being arrogant showed a lot of promise.Thomas handled the relationship with Cooper's family very well, showing his wisdom and his strength when Cooper needed him the most. Although the age difference was not a problem for the two as in book one, I liked the way the author brought it in, making it realistic when the two went out to explore and discover each others different worlds. Compromising, working together to create a loving environment.Well written with great scenes kept the story alive, making this an enjoyable read from beginning to end.This series would be best enjoyed when starting with book 1, so that you as reader could understand the complexities and the struggles of the characters, that makes this a wonderful series.
Thomas Elkin SeriesCharacter Interview with Cooper JonesBefore we begin, I must say that I really liked his character. He is funny, a typical twenty-two year old but with so much maturity, that I was dumbstruck at times. He showed strength in times that was unexpected, doing what had to be done with great compassion. His interaction with people from all walks-of-life, caused for very interesting scenes within the books. Especially Lionel the door attendant, he loved to pester him and at the end, his ability to care made them the biggest of friends.With all that said, here are his questions.
Thomas Elkin was a successful architect at one of the prestigious companies in New York, older, sexy and available. What were your first impressions of him?I’d met Tom years before, but he was just Ryan’s dad back then. When I came to New York and met him again, my impression of him was different, to say the least.  Sure, he was older, had grayish kind of hair, but he was seriously hot.We know that you had the same love for buildings as him, were it your intention to meet him? Be honest.I’d studied his work at college, and I knew he was a senior at Brackett and Golding, but I didn’t even know if I’d even see him there, or if he’d even recognize me. It had been years, and I’d changed a bit since he’d seen me last. But no, when I ran into Ryan on the street, I had no intention of meeting his dad like that. Was he a mentor?Tom’s many things, but I absolutely respect his professional views and opinions. He looks at architecture the same way I do and he has so much more insight than me. Tom’s definitely a mentor.The moment you met, were you immediately attracted to him or was it a gradual thing?It was the moment we met. Well, for me at least. I was a bit shocked that I found an older guy attractive, but the heart wants what the heart wants.The age difference does play a huge factor in the story, what was your initial reaction towards it?It kind of weirded me out at first. I went home and tried to convince myself it was nothing, but then I started working with him, and the more we talked, the more I couldn’t deny his intellect was a huge turn on for me.Surely, you had to pause and think about Ryan, your best friend and the son of Thomas Elkin, that was the same age as you. How did you think he would react if he had to know?I knew Ryan would be okay with it if we could just get him to listen. When he did walk in on the two of you, he wanted to run but you stopped him. What were your thoughts at that stage?I knew if we let him leave, it’d be too hard to get him to listen. I just wanted him to hear it from us, not so much for my sake but for Tom’s. I didn’t want to come between him and his son.In Thomas words, that were the moment the relationship became real for him, did you feel the same?It was, in a way, yes. Telling someone else made it very real. During your internship at Brackett and Golding, it was easy to hide the relationship. When your time ended and you did not get the position, you were very professional and walked away. How did you feel about Thomas and losing the dream job at that very moment?Oh, man, I was gutted. Not for the job as much as the fact I thought Tom had used me. That was the worst. You were angry with Thomas; you had not talked to him for a few days, fuming. When you finally got together and you heard his reasons, what were your thoughts about that?I was pissed off, and hurt. I really needed a few days to get my head around what had happened, and once I’d spoken to him I knew his reasoning was logical. And professionally, it was what was best for me. Once I’d taken the emotion out of it, I could see that.This was the only place I thought you were mean to him, he was devastated at your reaction. Do you have a mean side that we have not seen yet?I think everyone has the ability to lash out when hurt. It was a kneejerk reaction. Childish, probably, but I was still hurt and I wanted him to see how much he’d hurt me. I’m not generally a mean person though, no.I loved the analogy you have used describing your relationship. You said that your relationship was like a retrofit project: making the older, classic style integrated with the modern. That nailed it perfectly for me, was it a slow awareness or was it a light-bulb moment?That was totally on the spot. But it was perfect. There we were, surrounded by blueprint plans overlooking New York, and it was an analogy I knew he’d understand. Lionel was a big hurdle for you, which caused a few funny moments, how did you felt when he had finally given you the last barrier, the key?Lionel’s first loyalty was to Tom, which was understandable. But I knew he’d warm to me. When Tom asked for the key, Lionel was trying not to smile, so I knew he liked me. Lionel loves me now. I bring him pastries for his wife. What’s not to love?The Generation Y topic came up often, and you used it often to get your way. Did you not feel you are manipulating the situations?Of course, I was manipulating situations. That’s why I did it. *laughs*  I only ever pull the Gen Y card when it’s funny, but would never do it seriously or use it to make Tom feel bad. According to Thomas, sex was always on your mind and you did it often. Is that the case?Ah, yes. I’m a 23 year old gay man in a long-term relationship. There will always be sex.  Lots and of lots sex.Your first meeting with Sofia did not go well, but you kept your cool on Ryan’s birthday. What were your initial thoughts about Tom’s ex-wife?Sofia had a lot of information dumped on her. In hindsight, I guess she handled it pretty well. I was more concerned with Tom’s reaction, and he defended me. Sofiawas a bit of a bitch to me first off, but she dealt with it eventually.You had met Thomas parents very briefly and after greeting them very politely, you walked away. I thought that was very mature of you. Does people’s opinions matter to you or do you just hide it very well?Nah, not at all. He needed some time with his parents so it was only right I walked away. I knew they didn’t know he was gay, and I would never put him in a situation that could hurt him.“I love you” is three very simply but very profound words. Again, Thomas made a mess of it declaring it to Sofia, of all people. How did you feel when you heard it like that?Man, my heart was hammering. I heard him say it to her and couldn’t believe it. I was floored that he said it, but he should have told me, not her. I was pissed at him, but still kinda glad he laid it out for Sofia like he did.For Thomas everything changed after that declaration. For the first time he had asked that, you must make love to him, and you did. It was beautiful. Did the dynamics changed for you as well, after you professed your love for him?Of course it did. It was a real emotional connection. You liked to challenge Thomas through out the story; does that apply to everything else in your life? Please give us an example.I love challenging everyone. I love to challenge myself. Especially at work – if we’re working on a joint project with other drafties, we need to push each other and ourselves to achieve higher goals. Otherwise all we strive for is mediocre. Your father did not accept the relationship and it devastated you. Thomas stepped in and showed his age when he spoke to them. You really complimented each other as a couple. It looked so easy but was it really?It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. There was a few minutes, when I was in the backyard, that I was quite prepared for my parents to say I wasn’t welcome in their house and that was a low point for me. I wasn’t exactly prepared for that.Tom told me what he said to them; how he didn’t want them to lose me because of him, and I guess he earned respect-points for that. The age difference was a huge barrier for friends and family, did you and Thomas ever talked about it, and how you would handle it?We didn’t really. We knew it would and could be a problem for our families, but there was always the unspoken rule that we were worth it. We were putting ourselves through it because we knewwe were the real deal.Why did you stall to move in, I mean, the man was on his knees and still you refused, was it a test in some way?More of a test for me, I think. It’s a monumental step in any relationship, and I didn’t want to rush it. I needed to make sure Tom was certain. Plus, I like to keep him on his toes. When Tom’s father passed away, you immediately rushed from Philadelphia to be with him. Thomas walked into your arms and broke down for the first time. Right in front of his son and ex-wife, showing his heart openly. That had to have shaken you?God, that was heartbreaking. I needed to be there. When Ryan called me to tell me, there was no question for me. I had to be there. When I walked in and Tom started to cry, it almost killed me. But he needed me to be strong.You took charge and did what had to be done, which impressed me. When Sofia included you as part of the family, how did it feel? I can’t lie; it felt good. I always like it when people stop resisting my charms and give in to my awesomeness *laughs* but seriously? I was stoked. Not just for me, but for Tom and Ryan. Do you think that they have accepted the relationship?I do. They might not love the fact that Tom and I are together, but they’ve accepted it. Do you have a final word for gay people and their families?
I know I’ve been very blessed with my family and a lot of people don’t have that. That said, I’d have to say patience, acceptance, tolerance and communication.  It’s not always easy, but don’t give up on each other.  Sometimes things take time, even though you wish it were instant, it doesn’t always happen that way. But one day, you’ll meet your Tom and I hope your family will see how happy you are too. 


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Best of Books Bloghop. Non-Fiction Books I have read in 2013

A review of this year's reading.
This year was extremely busy, reading wise. According to my Goodreads list I have read 284 books in total. No wonder I am tired **smile**, but not tired enough to stop, nope not me.
This post is just about the non-fiction and inspiring stories I have read, which was not a lot mind you, but still they are books to remember.

The first book I really can recommend - well I can recommend all of the books I have read **smile** - was this wonderful bundle from the authors of Masterkoda. A group of people that does what they say, support. Support is one of the most fundamental things an author can have, in a very competitive world of books. No man is an island is a cliche but in the world of books this is very true about authors. Without it we will fail connecting with readers, in marketing and networking and just the general idea of support. Especially Indie authors find this true on a regular basis.  So, if you are an Indie author in desperate need to connect with other authors connect with them, become part of the group and you will experience the same as me.

Click on the link to like my review and go ahead and buy your copy. It is only 99 cents. A bargain for what you receive in inspiring words. Amazon
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The next book I have read but will only future on Jan 6, 2014 on my blog is From the Abyss. Currently number two in the Fatherhood genre on Amazon.Be sure to come back on that date, when I will have an Interview with the author John Emil Augustine.(He is also part of Masterkoda) **wink-wink**
My review can be read on Amazon, and go ahead buy his book, which is only 99 cents and read about his story, you will not be disappointed.Amazon
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Choosing the road less Traveled is a story that will touch every person.I was wondering what will be revealed in this autobiography of this person, the reason I love to read autobiographies is that you get an insight in to their life normally not seen by other people. As I open the first page I was immediately drawn into the life of Myckell Williams. 


Amazon
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I received my very own print books from the author, which was no small thing, since I live in South Africa and the author in America. I was really blessed to getting to know this lady which brought us this Christian series. It has to be read in consecutive order. Although fiction I thought it good to place it here as well, since you need to know the Bible to understand and fully grasp the principles she is talking about.
Bella MauraAmazon


Justice QuinnAmazon


Mason MichealAmazon

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The next book I can recommend is "In the name of the Son and daughter", not very well known I know but worthy to be mentioned and read. The purpose of this book is to provide better understanding and awareness of abuse and the effects on children. The information includes useful data pertaining to healing from abuse. To learn more click on the link.

Amazon
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I will let the author speak on this book. But I was deeply touched, that's for sure. I can recommend this book to all readers, especially if you love children.
I Didn't Know - Identifying, Confronting & Overcoming Child Sexual Abuse - the title is indicative of the subject matter. In this book the author brings to the forefront the many faces of child sexual abuse; those of the victims and the abusers. Yvette Allen-Tatum boldly confronts her past of child sexual abuse to demonstrate that TRUE deliverance is possible. Yvette believes that we ALL (victims, abusers, enablers, nay-sayers, etc.) can OVERCOME the horrible effects of child sexual abuse.

This book proves that true healing is possible and necessary for us to become more than CONQUERORS through Christ Jesus. 

Amazon
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After learning that her autistic daughter Megan had been abused at the hands of her own brother, Kate Rose spent years trying to cope with her family's tragedy. She nearly gave up hope when the justice system refused to protect her daughter and was exhausted at the long, drawn-out trial that seemed to go nowhere. This was a touching story of one mother's fight against a system that refused to believe her, saving her daughter from her own family.

Amazon
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Powerful Prayer to protect and bless your family

Amazon
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This book was recommended to me by a friend, and I thought it a good idea to add it here as well. It encourages, inspire and helps you to form a clear picture of your own personal struggles.
The Invitation

Amazon
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And, I can not end this post without mentioning this book.My grandson and daughter reviewed this book for me and it received lots of attention on this blog.

Amazon
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For more books on other blog hoppers follow the linkLinky tools
                                      

Remembering some of the memorable romance reads in 2013

Today on this post, I  am remembering some of the books I have read over the last year. I have always loved books. From an early age I could get lost in a book, keeping myself busy and forgetting the world out there. Becoming a blogger and reviewer was a natural extend to my reading and I have learned that my opinion matters. Not only that, this road has open doors for me in my own writing endeavors. The connections I am building through this is priceless, and I know I have said it before but I really love this journey. Appreciating the hard work creating a book, the time away from your family, long hours alone, just you and your computer, the hard work in editing and the tireless work to market it. It is fulfilling every creative part of me.Thank you for every reader that supports us in buying and reviewing our books. We appreciate it more than you will know.So, with all that said let me show you some of the books I have read that stayed with me for a long time.

1. Seduced by Carri Quinn
2. Enchanter by Kristy Centeno
3. Knotted Roots by Ruthi Kight
4. Girls love Travis Walker by Anne Pfeffer 


5. Shattered Reality by Brenda Perlin

6. The Eighth Wonder by Kimberley S Young
7. The forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box by J Lewis Coleman


8. Her Wicked Sin by Sarah Ballance
9. A thistle in the Mist by Megan Denby
10. Never seduce a Scott by Maya Banks
11. Take my heart by Marie Higgins
12. Salt Bride by Lucinda Brant
13. The Mistress of Trevelyan by Jennifer St. Giles
14. His dark Desires by Jennifer St. Giles
15. Betrayed by Sylvia McDaniel
16. Wronged by Sylvia McDaniel
17. Beguiled by Sylvia McDaniel
18. Sagebrush Bride By Tanya Ann Crosby


19. Legal Ease by Lori Ryan
20. Going after the Heart by Kristen Bearisto 
21. All for Love by Ann Swann
22. Double Mocha, Heavy on your Phone Number by June Kramin
23. Born in Fire by Nora Roberts
24. Vermont Escape by Marsha R West
25. A Time Apart by Brittany Batong
26. Nobody has to know by Frank Nappi
27. Her dear and loving Husband by Meredith Allard
28. Wild Irish by Jennifer Saints
29. Smooth Irish by Jennifer Saints
And if I may, I know I am bias but every opportunity must be used, right **wink wink**
A Pirate's Wife
This is just a handful of the books I have read, some I received from the authors, some I have received as a promotional gift and some are freebies on Amazon. It does not matter how you obtained the book, just as long as you buy, download, read and leave a review. We love to hear back from you, the reader. Thanks for taking the time to stop here at Aspired Writer and all the positive comments. Without it, it will not be worth the effort or time.A Prosperous 2014 for you and yours, may you too realize your dreams in this coming year and eat the fruit of your handiwork.

Cover Reveal for the Ultimate Betrayal by Lacey Leigh plus Giveaway

About the Author:Lacey Leigh is a stay at home mother of three. Her children are very active in school activities and keep her really busy but she still finds time to put her stories out there for everyone to enjoy.Lacey's husband is medically retired from US ARMY. Though she hates that he had to leave the job he loved so much she is glad to have him home with her children and herself. Lacey's books are written for ADULT audiences ONLY. All audiences are encouraged to read the warning in the front of the book BEFORE purchasing/reading any of Lacey's work. Lacey does NOT wish to offend ANYONE by her writing. She only wants to write for those who enjoy the work she does.



About the Book:                Rainey lived with her father (Martin Tucker) and sister (Mariah Tucker) in a small po-dunk town in Alabama known as Covington. Her mother was killed in a horrific car accident when she was seven years old.                Rainey was in love with a wonderful man that treats her with respect and kindness. Everyone including her father was against their relationship at first because of the age difference between them. They were happy together until she moved away to college. The case concerning her mother’s murder was reopened, and she was betrayed by the people she should have been able to trust above anyone else.            Does Rainey and Jake’s relationship survive all the pain and hurt that they are destined to endure? Will her mother’s murder be solved? Will their love overcome…
The Ultimate Betrayal?

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Launch of Eternal Night by Jade Kerrion

 


  "What makes Kerrion’s writing so compelling is the beautifully flawed characters that find themselves in unexpected relationships...these kind of character level conflicts make Kerrion’s writing so deliciously addictive."—Noor A Jahangir, Author of The Changeling King

“Everything you want in a great story. Love, intrigue, action, betrayal, and understanding.”—Ch’kara Silverwolf, Author of Daughter of Light and Dark 

Alone for a millennium, since a human murdered her beloved consort, Ashra, the immortal icrathari queen, rules over Aeternae Noctis, the domed city of eternal night. Her loneliness appears to be at an end when her consort’s soul is reborn in a human, Jaden Hunter, but their reunion will not be easy. Icrathari are born, not made. If Ashra infuses Jaden with her immortal blood, he will be a vampire, a lesser creature of the night, a blood-drinker rather than a soul-drinker. Furthermore, Jaden is sworn to protect his half-sister, five-year-old Khiarra. She is the child of prophecy, destined to end the eternal night and the dominion of the Night Terrors—the icrathari and the vampires. As Ashra struggles to sustain her crumbling kingdom in the face of enemies without and treachery within, Jaden fights to defend his sister and unravel a greater mystery: what is the city of eternal night, and how did it come to be?

E-books available at Amazon / Amazon UK / Apple / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / Smashwords  Paperbacks available at Amazon / Amazon UK / Barnes & Noble / Book Depository
READ AN EXCERPTWith Tera beside her, Ashra strode forward. A wall of vampires parted to reveal the other two icrathari, Siri and Elsker. A dark-haired human slumped at Elsker’s feet, his wrists cuffed behind his back. Ashra stifled a chuckle. Surely Tera was overreacting; the human was by far the weakest creature in the chamber. Tera knelt down, wrapped her fingers into the human’s hair, and pulled his head back. The human’s face was handsome enough—the slash of his cheekbones accentuated his perfectly proportioned, sculptured features—but taken as a whole, he was not compelling enough to justify the fuss. Ashra shrugged. “You’re wasting my time, Tera.” Apparently undeterred, the icrathari warlord shook the human hard. His eyes flashed open. They were brilliant green, the exact color of the emerald ring Ashra wore on the index finger of her right hand. His gaze was unfocused, and the reflexive narrowing of his eyes matched the clenching of his jaw, hinting of wrenching pain. Tera looked up and met Ashra’s gaze. “Taste his soul.” Ashra recoiled, her upper lip curling in disgust. She had no desire to taste a human’s soul. Over the centuries, humans had grown weak, their small lives consumed by superstition and fear. It was better to live on the edge of perpetual starvation than fill her hunger with the pitiful excuse humans called a soul. “Go deep,” Tera said. But why? Ashra’s brow furrowed. She glanced at Siri and Elsker, but the two icrathari shrugged, apparently no more clued in than she was. She looked back at Tera. The icrathari warlord known as Ashra’s Blade was the epitome of calm understatement. If she was so insistent, she must have had a reason. Ashra knelt beside the human. Without flinching, she placed her hand against his muscled abdomen. It was bloody, his flesh ripped by a vampire’s talons. The man tensed at her touch, and his eyes flared wide with agony when her soul-sucking powers leeched into him. His breath came hard and fast, his chest heaving with the effort as he twisted in Tera’s unyielding grip, trying to break free. Ashra’s eyes narrowed. The human was weakened—tapped into his life source, she waded through his dazed thoughts and shivered from the echo of each spasm of pain that wracked his body—but still, he fought Tera on the physical plane and Ashra on the psychic dimension, denying her access to his memories and to his soul. She frowned and slammed her will against his, tearing an anguished scream from his throat, but still, his will did not crumble. Askance, Ashra looked at Tera. “Did you taste him?” Tera nodded. “It wasn’t hard the first time; he didn’t know what to expect, but apparently, he does now and is doing a fine job of fighting back.” Was that grudging respect she heard in Tera’s voice? “Does his soul really matter?” The icrathari nodded again. Ashra’s shoulders shifted with the motion of a silent sigh. His resistance left her with little choice. She leaned forward and glided her lips over his in a whisper of a kiss. Human myths spoke of succubi and incubi—demons that, with a touch, could stir lust in their unwilling victims. All myths were based in reality. The maddening beauty and soul-sucking powers of the icrathari had spawned the legends of succubi and incubi. With a touch, the icrathari could lure their victims into a state of sexual ecstasy, bending the will and baring the soul. The human tensed against Ashra, resisting the intimate contact. She almost recoiled. Had the centuries dulled her innate powers? Surely she had not forgotten how to lure a man. She closed her eyes and remembered love. As always, Rohkeus’s fine-featured face—those beautiful gold-flecked green eyes, so unusual for an icrathari, and teasing smile—came to the fore. With a dreamy half-smile, she deepened the kiss, driving the memory of love before her like a sharpened stake. At last, the man relaxed, succumbing to the kiss. She leaned into him, heedless of his crimson blood staining her white gown. He was warm, feverish even. Just skimming over six feet, he had more than twelve inches on her, but his physical strength, compared to hers, was puny. She was well aged; over four millennia old, she was the oldest of the icrathari and the strongest. She could have broken his neck with as little effort as a human child snapping a twig. Her hand trailed across his muscled torso. He made it easy for her to be gentle. His body trembled as if he longed for her. His mouth was hungry for her kiss. He arched up against her, as if craving more. His need was like a living creature, wild and aching for her touch. Eyes closed, Ashra shivered. Only one other person had desired her as much. And he was dead. She forced her way through the memories of pale bodies tangled upon cool silk sheets. When her soul-sucking power leeched out, it found no opposition. Images of the human’s life rewound in a blaze of vivid sights, sounds, and sensations. Ashra looked up at Tera, her smile little more than a barely perceptible curve of her lips. “He fancies himself the protector of the child of prophecy. Was she among those taken tonight?” Tera nodded. Ashra chuckled, the sound without humor. “It’s a pity her genetic heritage wasn’t sufficiently superior to prevent her from being culled.” “There’s more. Go deep.” She pushed past the blackness at the start of his memories, expecting deeper darkness. Instead, the colors shifted into shades of ochre and gray. Memories, older than his body, resided in his soul; memories of an Earth long since lost to them—a planet surrounded and nourished by water; images of tall buildings glistening beneath a benevolent sun, and of thriving cities filled with the bustle of humans; memories of quiet and intimate conversations beneath a silver moon, the same silver moon that now graced Malum Turris with its light, though a thousand years older and viewed only from beneath the protection of the dome. She saw herself as he must have seen her, a much-younger icrathari, still hopeful for the future, never realizing that the Earth they had all known and loved was irretrievably lost. Had she ever looked that vulnerable? Had her smile ever been so beautiful, so filled with love as she looked upon— “Rohkeus?” Oh, blessed Creator, was that stricken whisper her voice?
~*~E-books available at Amazon / Amazon UK / Apple / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / Smashwords  Paperbacks available at Amazon / Amazon UK / Barnes & Noble / Book Depository Connect with Jade Kerrion at: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Amazon

5 Star Review for 'Bad Elephant Far Stream' by Samuel Hawley Plus Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOKBad Elephant Far Stream is an elephant’s life story, told from her own perspective, through her own eyes. Inspired by the life of a real elephant known as Topsy, it follows Far Stream from her birth and capture in the wild in Ceylon in the late 1860s, through her transportation to America and thirty years with the circus, which ultimately led to her being labeled as “bad.” It’s an unusual and uncompromising novel that explores the questions: What is it like to be an elephant trained for human amusement? What does such a creature think? What does it feel? What does it yearn for? Bad Elephant Far Stream takes the reader on a voyage of discovery to find out.


ABOUT THE AUTHORSamuel Hawley was born and grew up in South Korea, the son of missionary parents. After earning BA and MA degrees in history from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, he returned to East Asia for two decades to teach, first in Japan and then Korea, retiring in 2007 as an associate professor of English at Yonsei University in Seoul. It was in Japan that Hawley started writing for magazines and newspapers on topics ranging from travel and Japanese fashion to sumo wrestling and fishing at downtown tsuribori. By the late 1990s he had turned his attention to books, notably The Imjin War(Institute of East Asian Studies Press, UC Berkeley, 2005), a 700-page account of Japan’s sixteenth-century invasion of Korea and attempted conquest of China. Hawley switched his focus to popular nonfiction after returning to Canada in 2007. His first work in this new vein was Speed Duel: The Inside Story of the Land Speed Record in the Sixties (Firefly, 2010), which received starred reviews in both Publishers Weekly and Library Journal. He followed this with I Just Ran: Percy Williams, World’s Fastest Human (Ronsdale, 2011), named one of the five “Best Sports Books of 2011” by the CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation). In 2013, Hawley decided to go “indie." He parted ways with his agent and formed his own imprint, Conquistador Press, to publish his first novel, Bad Elephant Far Stream.

Bad Elephant Far Stream (historical fiction) by Samuel Hawley263 pagesConquistador Press (November 2013)$15.95 (paperback); $7.99 (eBook)ISBN 978-0-9920786-0-7
Visit author Samuel HawleyConquistador Press"Bad Elephant Far Stream" on AmazonWatch the trailer


A Note From the Author
Bad Elephant Far Stream is a work of fiction. A real elephant, however, inspired the story. Her name was Topsy, an Asian elephant, trained to perform in the circus, origins unknown. She had a crooked tail, broken at a young age by hard treatment, reportedly by Adam Forepaugh Jr.; she performed in the Forepaugh Circus for many years as part of the dancing quadrille ; she killed a man named Jesse Blount in 1902 and attacked another named Louis Dondero. And she was euthanized at Coney Island on January 4, 1903, the event immortalized in the Edison film “Electrocution of an Elephant.” You can watch the flickering footage on YouTube. I tried to incorporate as much as I could discover about the real Topsy into this story. Unfortunately, only tantalizing hints exist about her in the historical record prior to her widely publicized killing of Blount. In writing Bad Elephant Far Stream I therefore drew upon the experiences of other elephants as well— Topsy’s contemporaries with other shows— to flesh out the story. Most of the episodes depicted here are therefore largely true. They actually happened—but not necessarily to Topsy. In gathering information, I searched through scores of newspapers of the day, from the Atlanta Constitution and Albany Evening Journal to the Washington Post and Wichita Daily Eagle. I accessed these through Stauffer Library at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario (special thanks to the inter-library loan staff), and through a number of on-line newspaper archives, notably www.newspaperarchive.com ; the Library of Congress’s http:// chroniclingamerica.loc.gov and the individual state listings at http:// www.xooxleanswers.com/ free-newspaper-archives/ us-state-and-local-newspaper-archives/ . Of these state newspaper archives, the one for New York at www.fultonhistory.com deserves special mention. The site is strangely quirky— and massive. A second major source was the Forepaugh Circus route books. These are detailed accounts for each year’s happenings that were published at the end of each season: a list of employees, the line-up of acts , the route taken, a daily journal, miscellaneous articles and snippets— usually a total of more than 100 pages. By far the best collection of these route books is housed in the Parkinson Library at the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Circus World Museum Assistant Director Rob Richard kindly provided me with material from the Forepaugh route books for the years 1878, 1880, 1883, 1889, 1891, 1892, 1893, 1894, 1896, 1898, 1900 and 1902. I found the daily journal portion , a major part of each book, to be especially useful . It was here that I read of such events as Topsy’s running in an elephant race as depicted in chapter 13 (she lost her footing and tumbled head over heels on at least two occasions, once in St . Louis , Missouri on May 24, 1893 and again in Marion , Kansas on August 30 of the same year, “turning a complete and artistic somersault”); the train derailment in chapter 14 (derailments and serious accidents occurred almost every season; the one in which the Forepaugh elephant car tumbled down an embankment occurred en route to Bluefield, Virginia on September 25, 1898); the tent blow-down in chapter 17 (Sioux City, Iowa, June 24, 1898); together with numerous other incidents and a wealth of descriptive detail. Third, there is the elephant database at www.elephant.se, essential for tracking elephants with nineteenth-century circuses to the extent that information exists. Also noteworthy is second-generation elephant trainer William “Buckles” Woodcock’s circus history website, http:// bucklesw.blogspot.com . I should perhaps mention here that I diverged from the database’s record on Adam Forepaugh’s elephant Romeo, the one whose death is depicted in chapter 5. He was one of several circus elephants at the time named Romeo and thus they are easily confused. The account I found most convincing— that an elephant named “Canda” was brought from Ceylon in 1851 and renamed “Canada” and later “Romeo”— is that forwarded by Stewart Craven, at one time Romeo’s trainer.
Another valuable source of information that went into the writing of this book was the Circus Historical Society’s on-line library at www.circushistory.org . This website contains listings of every stop in every town for many of the major circuses for most seasons. It also has a virtual library of books and articles written by or concerning old-time circus impresarios , performers and trainers: Richard Conover’s The Great Forepaugh Show, 1864-1894; Stuart Thayer’s American Circus Anthology; Charles Day’s book Ink From a Circus Press Agent and weekly column “The Circus in the Days of Old”; W.C. Thompson’s On the Road with a Circus ; Louis Cooke’s weekly newspaper series “Reminiscences of a Showman”; Tony Parker’s On the Road With a Wagon Show and a good deal more.

5 Star Review
I received the book from the author for an honest review.
This book was well researched, well written and compelling. It is gripping, heart felt, and filled with compassion as you read this unique story from the elephant 'Far Stream's point of view. Starting from her capture in 1871, in the forests of India to her death in 1903, you will read about this intelligent creature, subdued to entertain people. She received cruelty at the hands of some spectators and some handlers, not willing to learn from her. Her reluctance to accept any changes, especially when she was older. They were always pressured to learn new tricks to entertain the crowds. The author gave us a glimpse into the circus world from that period, with its high demands for perfection, pushing the animals to comply to their rules and ways. Always on the road, touring from town to town. With dangerous places, derailed trains and bulls that became mad, placing them all in danger. You learn about their executions, strangulation and many more ways they were kept in control.What touched me most was her constant longing for a past she could not remember, her heart-break when she realized that her family was gone and the joy when she was once again reunited by her sister. Always craving for freedom, never accepting her captured life, even if she did want to please the people that came in her life. Her different names as she grew into a matriarch of the group, not her flesh and blood but yet taking the role very seriously. The abuse that many of her fellow elephants endured, all to tame them, subdue them to fit in a man made world. Each elephant had their own unique character, their own troubles and seeing it from their perspective gives you a new found respect for these giants that walks the earth.A wonderful historical fiction that I can recommend to all readers.
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Fractured Innocence by Julia Crane Release Day Blitz December 24th

Fractured Innocence (IFICS #2Freak of Nature)By Julia CraneRelease Date: December 24, 2013


Blurb/Synopsis
*Warning 17+ due to sexual gritty topic and language. 
Kaitlyn and Erik are sent on a mission to track down Vance Dasvoik, a ruthless monster. His latest thrill—abducting and selling young women.

Vance's current victim: Aaliyah, a seventeen-year-old who never imagined walking her brother home from school one evening would change her life forever.

The mission quickly turns personal for Kaitlyn when she finds Aaliyah beaten, her mind and soul fractured from abuse of the worst kind. Kaitlyn knows firsthand what it's like to be haunted by the past and resolves to bring justice to the elusive Dasvoik.


ExcerptThis couldn’t be reality. Had they really been abducted? No! No! No! Please let this be a dream. A nightmare. Please let me wake up and find myself in my own bed. Things like this didn’t happen, not to her. Not to her brother! Certainly not in America. Her family didn’t have money, so she knew this wasn’t about ransom. Without moving she scanned the room trying to gain her bearings. She was curled up on the floor in the corner of a small room, that much was obvious. Her body ached. She tried to straighten her legs out but they remained bent. She couldn’t even push herself up to sitting.The walls were white and metal filing cabinets lined the walls. A large wooden desk sat off to the left with a computer. No windows. No pictures or paintings on the wall. Nothing personal whatsoever.   Her eyes continued to dart around the room, finally settling on the men. They were large, wore dark suits and looked scary. One was tall with a hook nose and curly blond hair, the other was short but muscular with a bald head. They were not the same men from the car. Desperately she tried to fight the panic that rose in her chest once she realized her brother was not in the room with them. Where was he? At least she knew he was alive from their comments. Too young? For what? So many questions and no answers. Maybe if she could figure out where they were they could escape. 

Book Link:Goodreads


Author Bio
Julia Crane is the author of the Coexist: Keegan’s Chronicles. She has a bachelors degree in criminal justice. Julia has believed in magical creatures since the day her grandmother first told her an Irish tale. Growing up her mother greatly encouraged reading and using your imagination. Although she’s spent most of her life on the US east coast, she currently lives in Dubai with her husband and three children.
Author Links:AmazonFacebook Author PageGoodreadsBlog/WebsiteTwitter


To follow the Release click below Fractured Innocence Schedule
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For your chance to win an ecopy of Fractured Innocence by Julia Crane, please leave a comment on each Blog Page participating in the Release.

The Viscount’s Vow Blog Tour By Collette Cameron. Giveaway and review.

The Viscount’s Vow -  Synopsis
Amidst murder and betrayal, destiny and hearts collide when scandal forces a viscount and a  gypsy noblewoman to marry in this Regency romance, sprinkled with suspense, humor, and inspiration. Half Romani, half English noblewoman, Evangeline Caruthers is the last woman in England Ian Hamilton, the Viscount Warrick, could ever love—an immoral wanton responsible for his brother’s and father’s deaths. She thinks he’s a foul-tempered blackguard, who after setting out to cause her downfall, finds himself forced to marry her—snared in the trap of his own making.
When Vangie learns the marriage ceremony itself may have been a ruse, she flees to her gypsy relatives, declaring herself divorced from Ian under Romani law. He pursues her to the gypsy encampment, and when the handsome gypsy king offers to take Ian’s place in Vangie’s bed, jealousy stirs hot and dangerous.
At last, under a balmy starlit sky, Ian and Vangie breech the chasm separating them. Peril lurks though. Ian’s the last in his line, and his stepmother intends to dispose of the newlyweds so her daughter can inherit his estate. Only by trusting each other can they overcome scandal and murderous betrayal.
“A brilliant tale combining Regency romance with exotic Romani culture.”
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BUY LINK: Amazon http://amzn.com/B00EZ8RBN2/


Collette Cameron Bio
Multi-published historical romance author Collette Cameron has a BS in Liberal Studies and a Master's in Teaching. She only teaches part-time so she has time for her greatest passion: writing. Collette’s been married for 30 years, has 3 amazing adult children, and 5 dachshunds. Collette loves a good joke, inspirational quotes, flowers, the beach, trivia, birds, shabby chic, and Cadbury Chocolate. You'll always find dogs, birds, quirky—sometimes naughty—humor, and a dash of inspiration in her novels. Her motto for life? You can’t have too much chocolate, too many hugs, or too many flowers. She’s thinking about adding shoes to that list.

Collette would love hearing from you. http://collettecameron.comhttp://blueroseromance.com
You can also connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Goodreads, & Google+.

Book Trailer Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndiFEQwv8B8
Excerpt One - The Viscount’s Vow – Gypsy Vardo Scene
Ian placed a hand on Vangie’s shoulder. “I’m so very sorry.”Oh, how she needed a comforting touch. But not his. Never again his.She wrenched away from him. Her voice ringing with scathing condemnation, she said, “Tell me, Lord Warrick, are you terribly disappointed I’ll not have a distended belly proclaiming to the world I carry your seed before you discard me?” Vangie heard him suck in a great gulp of air. “She was lying, Vangie.”She clamped a hand over her mouth to stifle the sobs demanding release.Was she? Or was Lucinda telling the truth, and Ian the liar?When she didn’t respond he pressed, “Lucinda knew you were behind me. Her lies were contrived to cause you pain and grief.” He laid a hand on her shoulder. “We’re legally married. By all that is holy, I swear it.”What did he know of holiness? Vangie struggled to turn over, the weight of the quilt covering her adding to the burden of her grief. She pinned him with a direct look.“Tell me one thing,” she rasped. “Did you or did you not venture to London for the express purpose of causing my downfall?”“Vangie. . .”“Perhaps downfall isn’t accurate. Putting me in my place? Giving me my just due? Ruining me?”He said nothing. Had guilt rendered him speechless? She searched his face. His handsome features were etched with sorrow, and his eyes . . . was that regret? Or . . . could it be? Were those tears awash in the silvery depths? Her heart twisted painfully. Blast and damn. No. She’d not feel compassion for him. She was the victim. She would offer him no quarter, no mercy. “Well, did you?” “That was before I. . .”Pain, razor-sharp pierced her heart and left it bleeding. “It’s a simple question, Ian. Yes or no?”    “It’s not that simple—”With a doggedness that surprised even her, Vangie persisted. “Yes or no?”“Sweeting, I’d been told. . .”Told? Fury whipped anew. She bit out, “Yes. Or. No?”Absolute, resolute, demanding truth’s validation, either to mend her shattered heart or annihilate it completely, Vangie would have her answer. No more a corked-brained, beguiled miss, blinded by love. Looking through the twin lenses of betrayal and deceit, she could at last see Ian clearly.His eyes pleaded with her to understand. His voice low and filled with self-condemnation, he uttered but one syllable. “Yes.”

5 Star review
I received this book from the touring host for and honest review.
It is a delightful romantic tale that takes you back in time. Although a long story the author’s writing style was fast paced and kept you interest through out. The detailed plot well delivered, the scenes well constructed, each a stepping-stone to create the plot and the characters strong and believable.I really enjoyed this book from Collette Cameron. The first of her books I have read, definitely not the last.The story was about revenge and greed that caused many misunderstandings, lies, cruelty and heartache. Mixed it with a budding romance, hope and love as two people found their way to each other, and you are thoroughly entertained. Learning how people can manipulate and cause harm without thought for their fellow human beings. All for their own selfish desires.Found in a compromising position one night at a ball Ian was forced to marry Vangie. This was where all the troubles started for these two. Both tried to convince her uncle that it was ludicrous but he and the ton was adamant.Believing many lies about Vangie, Ian thought he could get his revenge this way, since he believed she was responsible for killing his brother. With a lot of anger, he took what he wanted from her, but when the truth finally caught up with him, he was plaque with guilt, getting to know his wife through brand new glasses.Vangie was a Roma Princess, left penniless after her parents passed away and forced to live with an aunt and uncle whose cruelty knew no bounds. At a very young age, she had to learn how to defend, be strong and stand up for herself. With the help of her paternal grandmother, she was feisty, straightforward, and compassionate. Very humble, she had many things against her. When she met Ian, she had her doubts but defended him, loved him and trusted him unconditionally. However, when he took it too far she took matters in her own hands and went back to the only place she felt safe.Ian’s gullibility caused him many problems on the way. Trusting and believing the wrong people, which cost him much more than his freedom. Shackled to Vangie he was determined to show her who was boss in their marriage. As the scales fell from his eyes he surrendered to his heart and knew that she was the best thing that ever happened to him, willing to follow her and do what ever was needed to win her back. With a greedy stepmother, he had many problems that had to be solved. But his tenacity and determination pulled him through so that he could see what was important. He became a true leader with Vangie, at his side and respecter of her people.

Giveaway
$25 Gift card to Amazon or B&N (winners choice)

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Link to tour schedule -