Listener’s Advisory: Mature Situations; 18+ Open Door Relations; ADHD; Anxiety
About The Author: The sassy and sensational Beth Gelman is a professional pianist and vocalist, as well as a teacher and office manager (and an amazing party planner. Stay tuned for future books about that!). Authentic, resilient, loyal, and spiritual, she’s not afraid to learn, fail, speak her mind, or try new things. Life is short—get ‘er done! She loves writing romances, especially romances about women who speak up, but more than anything she loves her husband, twin boys, and her faithful dog, Nora. The Perfect Series are her first books. Title: Always Falling Behind Genre: Contemporary Steamy Rom Com Book Synopsis: Never hitch a ride with a stranger…unless he’s hot. I’m Abigail Farnsworth-Burton. ADHD’er extraordinaire. Aspiring artist of mediums I’m not practiced in and chef of meals I’ve never eaten. And now, heiress. Basically, it means I now own more assets than I can wrap my head — and my limited organizational capacity — around. So, of course, my car breaks down 400 miles shy of my new mansion. And, of course, the only guy offering a ride looks intimidating as hell…until he opens his mouth. I didn’t care that he tripped over his words every time he spoke to me. I figured if he were a real killer, he’d be smoother in his script. Bad guys are never this hot…right? And Elias McGinnis is anything but scripted — unlike the voice in my head that seems intent on my eventual downfall. My one saving grace is my new friend, Amy The Great. She always knows exactly how to get things done. Too bad she’s a chicken. But old money attracts new enemies, and focusing on anything is impossible with my sexy live-in mechanic. If I only had a plan – and some actual cash. Oh, and a car. Always Falling Behind is a fun and steamy rom-com that shows people with neuro-divergent brains living their best lives. Find The Book: https://amzn.to/45Ns6oy Visit Beth’s Website: http://www.BethGelman.com YouTube: https://youtu.be/RwzC_jfjtpQ Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/2nwatr64
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Listener’s Advisory: Mature Situations
About The Author: Rhys Shaw has always been interested in history, dilapidated ruins, stories of deceit and survival. Her belief that women are overlooked in history, or blamed for mankind’s unsavory decisions is the reigning theme behind her gritty realistic historical fiction books. In The Welexia Series, Rhys draws upon her love of story to bring the pages alive with the personal struggles and pain of strong female characters, taking us on their journey to overcome and thrive. In the modern world, Rhys shares her home with a few furry friends and a less furry spouse. She can often be found with her nose in a book, or taking a walk - though not at the same time. Title: A Queen’s Wisdom: Strength In Mercy (The Welexia Series Book 4) Genre: Medieval Historical Fiction Book Synopsis: When your mind says one thing but your heart says another, how do you rationalize love? A hidden enemy in the kingdom threatens to tear Welexia apart. Queen Alaria must continue to remain strong for her family and all Welexians. This emotionally torn survivor must rule as her duties demand. An heir is imminent to her kingdom’s survival, but is it wise for a royal wedding to proceed in a world of uncertainty and threats? She must draw on her learned wisdom to make a decision. As her dear friend slowly dies, memories of her mother's death return to the surface. Will this storm of emotions break her, or will she endure? A Queen’s Wisdom is the final, heart-pounding book in the Welexia medieval historical fiction series. If you like strong female characters—unafraid to break from tradition, in an all-inclusive world, then you’ll love Rhys Shaw’s gritty series. Buy A Queen’s Wisdom to discover the fate of Welexia and her courageous queen! Find The Book: https://amzn.to/4eKHx58 Visit Rhys’ Website: https://www.welexia.com/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/b7QRFWHx7Xc Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/2vvcx4az Do you remember the lyrics from the George Michael song, “Freedom”… “I think I’m gonna get me some happy!” ![]() Well, I got some happy and a whole lot more at the Lakeshore Art Festival in Muskegon, Michigan this past weekend. If you’ve never been to this amazing event, I highly recommend you watch the Facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/LakeshoreArtFestival AND set aside the weekend on next year’s calendar. ![]() This phenomenal event shines sunlight on about three hundred artisans from almost every art discipline known to humanity. No kidding, I don’t think there was one artistic endeavor that wasn’t represented in this spectacular force of community. From lawn sprinklers with spinning elements and shining colors, to paintings and pencil drawings that looked like photographs, to clothing, jewelry, and so much more… I was comforted with a new reminder every ten feet of the remarkable talent human hands hold. Food trucks shared their digestible art, and a DJ added joyful sounds to the day. I walked through the streets looking at the smorgasbord of nearly every kind of art imaginable as people ate, sang, danced, and marveled at the wonderment of life. In that environment, I challenge anyone to feel anything but happy! I drove three hours to escape my regular routine (which is generally happy, most of the time) to find excessive amounts of happy in the places where I always find it… inside books and authors. It was well worth the drive, the hotel, and the ten miles I added to my sneakers. On the drive out Saturday afternoon, I listened to an audiobook written by an author who is new-to-me, contemplated the last several months of my life, the next several on the horizon, and while relaxing with another book near Lake Michigan and watching the sunset that night, found a gentle peace knowing I could disconnect from the monster of stress by reconnecting with the gentleness of friends, words, and water over the next couple of days. More than twenty authors pitched tents along the street bordering the park, mimicking white sails dotting the lake’s horizon. Under each lived many incredible stories, real and make believe. I reunited with dear friends, members of my “tribe” who imprinted on my heart and soul years ago… and I made many new friends, who I’m sure will become special to me, as well. The day was a delightful montage of listening and learning about each author’s imagination, their personal story, and so much laughter… it felt a little surreal. After all, could this much happy gathered together all in one place, be an actual reality? I’m here to tell you that truly, it is… and it’s probably more real than your eight hours of daily cubical time. As I spent the day talking with the authors and discovered the stories their imaginations created, time slowed. Nine o’clock in the morning to five o’clock in the afternoon felt almost like a week of pure play. I learned amazing things about the people behind the pens and keyboards, too. Their personal stories merit as much attention as the ones their imaginary friends force them to report. The skies began in the morning with puffy clouds and a warm breeze floating in from Lake Michigan, turning to perfect blue in the afternoon, as if someone had painted it just for this day. As the day progressed, the wind became gusty, forcing authors to grab hold of canopy stanchions and pull tight their anchor lines. Though rambunctious, the wind never turned angry, and the warm sun refused to retreat. One author in slicker-yellow, tickled my memory of days on sailboats and laughter… and writing poetry on the bow. Our Michigan writing community is overwhelming sometimes, but in a good way. How can so many people be so nice, so creative, and so accepting of the unique approach each takes to their craft? It’s remarkable! These people are colleagues, not competitors, even as they sold books… there was not one pushy pitch or resentful, jealous encounter in the mix. They were far more interested in simply meeting new people and sharing with them a world of possibility. Authors welcomed visitors with warm smiles, gentle laughter, and so much kindness, you’d never know it was an election year. As I spent time petting a very silky-soft chicken (yes, her name is Kay-Kay, and she is the star of a book!) It was difficult for me to make decisions about which books would make the trek back home to fill my shelves. Exercising some modicum of restraint and feigned fiscal responsibility, while pretending to be an adult… I didn’t buy all I wanted, but I’m thrilled to report that at the end of the day, I stuffed a tote full to overflowing with stories I’ve never read, personally inscribed by each author! If spending a day talking with authors, petting a chicken, and buying books is not the definition of happy… somebody needs a new dictionary.
Listener Advisory: Mature Situations & Language
About The Author: Darcy Monroe is an avid romance reader and spicy romance writer. Title: The Hall of Art and Pleasure Genre: Erotic Romance Book Synopsis: Mackenzie’s love life is a wreck. Drinking her troubles away in a strip club seems like the best solution until a dancer slips her a business card with a local address on it. When she walks through the door, she’ll never be the same… The address leads to a house with the deal of a lifetime: complete seven nights of “education” in The Hall of Art and Pleasure, and on the eighth night, step through a different door to be tested. She accepts the challenge and begins an awakening unlike any other. Room by room, Mackenzie starts to take back her confidence. Then she meets Tristen. Heartbreakingly sweet, he seems interested in her for more than her body. Mackenzie is torn between the desire to finish her time in the Hall and her longing for a real relationship. If she continues her carnal quest, she may lose Tristen, but if she quits, she’ll never know what lies behind the final door… Find The Book: https://amzn.to/3zb5LoK Visit Dacy's Website: https://darcymonroewriter.wordpress.com/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/BYmkc5QH9W4 Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3rbudd69 Listener Advisory: Mature Situations & Language
About The Reader: Mark Love lived for many years in the metropolitan Detroit area, where crime and corruption are always prevalent. As a former freelance reporter, Mark honed his writing skills covering features and hard news. He is the author of the Jamie Richmond romance mysteries, the Jefferson Chene mystery series, and more. Mark now resides in West Michigan, where he enjoys a wide variety of music, books, travel, cooking, and the great outdoors. Title: Rules of Desperation Genre: Mystery Book Synopsis: How far would you go to achieve the goal of your dreams? All Nicholas Burr wants to do is traditionally publish a mystery novel. Sure, he's had some success as a ghostwriter for a young adult series, but that's not the same. It's not even close. Camille, his long-suffering wife, has had enough. She's tired of being the breadwinner. Tired of listening to him prattle on about his next project. Tired of... him. Nicholas Burr is desperate. Should he do something rash? Something unexpected? Something so outrageous it would get everyone's attention? Yet, if there's one thing he knows, it's that he must follow the rules. Find The Book: https://amzn.to/3VRhx0t Visit Mark’s Website: https://www.motownmysteries.com/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/p-675sYN_AQ?si=pPZE0FtOvdVKjTQh Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/b3ea4sym About The Author: Jamie M Samland is a fantasy author based in Canton, MI, USA. He is passionate about creating vivid worlds and compelling characters that transport readers to new realms of imagination. Drawing inspiration from his love of storytelling, Jamie spends his free time playing board games, roleplaying with friends, and indulging in other hobbies like martial arts and home repair. When he is not writing, Jamie is often found lost in thought, dreaming up new and exciting stories to share with readers alongside his husband and their cats.
Title: Ooo Shiny! Volume 3: Vampires! Genre: Multi-Genre Short Stories Book Synopsis: Fascinating and blood-curdling tales that bite back. Get ready to delve deeper into the shadows as "Ooo Shiny! Volume 3, Vampires!" presents a collection of 20 vampire-ish-centric short stories that are as enthralling as they are eerie. Sure, they were supposed to focus solely on vampires, but you know how easily I get distracted... Prepare for a jaw-dropping excursion into the macabre, where the night is just as animated as the day. Our friend, the squirrel, is back—this time trading in holiday mischief for nocturnal adventures. Forget cocoa and leprechauns; we’re talking blood wine and undead ballroom dances now. Ever tried speed dating in a vampire-only nightclub? How about tracking down a bloodsucker who’s a social media influencer by day? Have you ever been stuck with a vampiric roommate who strictly follows a non-garlic, no-sunlight lease agreement? From vampiric hijinks to soul-searching immortals, this volume takes you on an unforgettable journey where fangs meet funny, dread meets drama, and where you'll learn to appreciate the smaller nuances of eternal life. So open the cobwebbed gates to "Ooo Shiny! Volume 3, Vampires!", and step into the moonlight, if you dare. Find The Book: https://amzn.to/3RxsRwn Visit JM Samland’s Website: https://www.jamiemsamland.com YouTube: https://youtu.be/3DN09c5d0-U Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/bdfpy5mw About The Author: Jamie M Samland is a fantasy author based in Canton, MI, USA. He is passionate about creating vivid worlds and compelling characters that transport readers to new realms of imagination. Drawing inspiration from his love of storytelling, Jamie spends his free time playing board games, roleplaying with friends, and indulging in other hobbies like martial arts and home repair. When he is not writing, Jamie is often found lost in thought, dreaming up new and exciting stories to share with readers alongside his husband and their cats.
Title: Ooo Shiny! Volume 1 Genre: Multi-Genre Short Stories Book Synopsis: The dark lord's call pulls the exalted king from his eternal slumber, but he's trapped behind a stone wall. A centipede pleads for help, but what if it's a hyper-advanced AI from the future? An assassin uses everyday objects in his craft and grooves to 1990s top 40 hits. Cannibal ghosts drive campers into an eating frenzy. What if Ivan the Terrible's Golden Library were hidden under the Red Square Krispy Kreme? What if a competing dungeon offered dental? Ooo Shiny! is a collection of 19 absurd stories from a mind that can't focus, each taking only 5 to 15 minutes to read during your morning constitutional. Sometimes rambling nonsense that aims to make you smirk or your eyes roll, even the most black-hearted, humorless souls will find at least one chuckle in this collection. Grab a stick of unicorn jerky, put down your time-traveling phone, and respawn into the dungeon next to the D.E.D. sorority mixer! As one advance reader called it, "Fun... In a disturbing way..." Find The Book: https://amzn.to/45ClCsQ Visit JM Samland’s Website: https://www.jamiemsamland.com YouTube: https://youtu.be/CkRTf-frg4A Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3xy6u5n8 About The Author: Jamie M Samland is a fantasy author based in Canton, MI, USA. He is passionate about creating vivid worlds and compelling characters that transport readers to new realms of imagination. Drawing inspiration from his love of storytelling, Jamie spends his free time playing board games, roleplaying with friends, and indulging in other hobbies like martial arts and home repair. When he is not writing, Jamie is often found lost in thought, dreaming up new and exciting stories to share with readers alongside his husband and their cats.
Title: The Invisible Castle Genre: Middle-Grade Fantasy Novelette Book Synopsis: Long before he became the storied mage-knight protector of House Galmoth, Ser Nerik Vazadon and his friends stumble upon an invisible castle. The ancient butler invites them to stay forever as the castle's masters, but as they begin exploring their new home, they sense something ominous is at play. With only their wit and friendship, they must unravel the mystery of the castle's magic and outmaneuver the force that seeks to hold them captive. In this captivating YA fantasy novelette, Ser Vazadon recounts the harrowing tale of his youth and the invisible castle that threatened to become his eternal prison. Find The Book: https://amzn.to/4cnJq5N Visit JM Samland’s Website: https://www.jamiemsamland.com YouTube: https://youtu.be/U7M9gHrswbg Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/ysras68w A Conversation with Nicky Burr, author of "Justifiable Homicide" (with thanks to Mark Love)6/1/2024 ![]() If you're an author, you understand that much of what we do as novelists is simply taking dictation and helping to retell the stories our characters share with us. The characters of our stories are vibrant, and outspoken, forever imposing their will upon us. That's part of the allure of writing... we get to see the world through another perspective, and perhaps take risks with imagination that society may not support in real life. Most of the time, our characters only speak when we're alone with them, they can be very shy. But every now and then, a character has such a strong will, and such a charismatic personality, they will choose to interact with people who are not their author. I am fortunate to have enjoyed such a connection with Nicholas "Nicky" Burr. He is the author of the hot new murder mystery, "Justifiable Homicide." and a ghost writer for a longstanding YA series. His author-collaborator, Mark Love, was kind enough to encourage Nicky to grant me a private audience to discuss his writing career and a bit about the sensational trial that came about was a result of his novel. I am grateful to Mark Love for setting up this interview. Here is a bit of our conversation... to discover more about Nicky's life, check out Mark Love's new novel, "Rules of Desperation available in paperback and ebook on Amazon." DKP: Nicky, thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I understand that you were a ghostwriter of a young adult series before the novel came out. What made you choose to write in such an opposing style for your first solo project?
NB: It’s part of the challenge any artist takes, to stretch their talents. What’s important is to know your audience and make sure what you’re writing appeals to them. After completing each book in the young adult series, I tried my hand at writing a mainstream novel. DKP: How does writing that series differ from writing Justifiable Homicide? NB: In the Skipper series, there is a sense of youth and innocence. The main characters are smart and clever. They are comfortable with each other. There’s no controversy between them. I’ve always been drawn to mysteries. For this tale, I just dug a little deeper, getting a glimpse of the dark side. I had to get in the mindset of someone who would do whatever it took to achieve their goal. DKP: Did you have a different approach or process; what was different about your research? NB: The process is the same. I let my imagination wander and put the characters in different situations. With this novel, I referred to a lot of newspaper accounts about murders and unsolved crimes. It was important that the readers could sympathize with the main character and root for him. DKP: Did you collaborate with the other ghostwriters? NB: Not on this project. Just to clarify, when writing the Skipper series, I do those on my own. There have been several different ghost writers over the years. Some may have collaborated, but not with me. DKP: Which came to you more naturally, writing for the series, or writing the novel? And why? NB: I’ve done several books in the series, so it’s easy for me to slip into the storyline and write. Although Skipper and Jojo aren’t my own creation, I’ve gotten to know them well over the years. I must admit to reading the series as a kid, so even though they are fictional, they’re like good old friends. DKP: Was there a scene or character in Justifiable Homicide that, upon final edit, didn't make it into the book? And if so, why did you (or your editor) make the cut? NB: Yes, that’s not uncommon. With Justifiable Homicide, there was some debate about whether the protagonist would get caught, or whether he would get away with it. I wrote an alternative ending where just before he disappears, ready to start his new life, the scene shifts and he’s sitting in a prison cell, replaying all the steps he took. That wasn’t satisfactory to me or the editor, so it was cut. DKP: Is there anything about who you are, or some aspect of your lifestyle, that you would exchange to become a better or more famous writer? NB: The events of our lives impact our abilities to create. My life hasn’t been all sunshine, lollipops, rainbows and unicorns. Fame can be fleeting. If my next book isn’t a hit, that will just ignite my passion to write a better story. Life’s journey can fuel your efforts. A shortcut doesn’t guarantee anything. I’d rather earn the acceptance and rewards than have it handed to me. DKP: The pressure of the trial must have weighed heavily on you. With the constant questioning (and perhaps a feeling of being gaslighted) from the police, was there ever a time during that process where you doubted your own innocence, and perhaps felt close to a confession just to make it all go away? NB: I’m an innocent. So, there was nothing to confess to. DKP: Did you always feel confident that the truth would find its way into the light? NB: Early in their investigation, I offered to take a polygraph, so the cops could rule me out as a suspect. I was certain that once they had the results, they would move on. When it came to the trial, my attorneys assured me that the case against me was weak. They felt certain I’d be exonerated. DKP: The prosecutor made many comparisons between the case of your missing wife to the novel you wrote. Is that simply mere coincidence, or were some elements of those characters, motivations, and locations based in real life? If so, which parts? NB: *Smiles* Life imitates art. Or is it the other way around? There are some writing coaches who encourage people to write what you know. I may have taken some liberties, using my own situations to shape the conflicts with my characters. The struggles between the husband and wife, the way the marriage was deteriorating, could be seen as a reflection of my own life. People change. Part of writing fiction is to draw from your own experiences and build on those to create an interesting story. DKP: You've been on a whirlwind press junket to promote the new release. How have you found becoming an instant celebrity? NB: It’s been a little odd. I’m used to just being a guy in the background. After appearing on some of the talk shows, people have spotted me in restaurants and airports. Everyone wants a selfie or an autograph. DKP: Are you having fun, or would you rather go back home and focus on the next book, writing in relative anonymity? NB: *Laughs* I don’t think going back is an option. Once the initial dose of celebrity winds down, I’ll return to the shadows and get back to work. DKP: Writing and promoting a book can be emotionally draining and stressful, although, truly, we never saw it on you. What were the worst and best parts of that adventure, and if you ever became overwhelmed, what did you do to recharge and walk out into another day in the public spotlight? NB: The best was that I had some time to recharge between most of the appearances. That was part of the publisher’s strategy from the onset. Flights and car services took me from the airports to the studios or television stations, so I wasn’t fumbling for rides. Each hotel I stayed in had a swimming pool, so I was able to get in a dozen laps or so. It was a great way to keep in shape and clear my head. *Laughs* The worst part was waking up in a strange hotel room each morning. It often took me a few minutes to figure out what city I was in. That was a bit unnerving. DKP: Many writers have a playlist of specific music that they listen to while they write; others prefer silence. Which is best for you... and if you have a playlist, what are three songs from that list? NB: I can work in silence, but don’t prefer it. Music is essential to life. I like variety. It’s not unusual for certain songs to help set the mood or the scene. Here are three from my playlist. The Five Browns: Rhapsody in Blue https://youtu.be/AWsjRK-yQvk?si=pBEkxn-mHBzymhIh Rickie Lee Jones: Woody & Dutch on the Slow Train to Peking https://youtu.be/qhBgGwr_Ktg?si=eQgW94Kw940aQWW0 The Commitments: Mustang Sally https://youtu.be/4eUJElS45gE?si=p-XwG4N19L01U4jp DKP: I don't know if your publisher is going to produce an audiobook version of Justifiable Homicide, but if they do, who would be your ideal celebrity narrator(s)? NB: That’s a great question. Matt Bomer would do a wonderful job on this story. DKP: What's coming next for you? NB: I’ve got a couple of ideas percolating. One is about an elusive serial killer. Another possibility could be a caper, like an art or jewel heist. DKP: We heard rumors of another manuscript, Double Cross... will that be coming out soon, or are you working on something else? NB: Double Cross was written before Justifiable Homicide. That’s been picked up by Corrigan Press for next year. DKP: Will you still write for the children's series? NB: Yes, as long as there is interest in the series and ideas keep coming, I’ll write them. DKP: Thank you for your time today. I look forward to chatting with you again soon. And, good luck to both you and Mark Love with the new releases, Justifiable Homicide and Rules of Desperation!
About The Author: Preethi Saravanakumar is a software developer by profession. Writing poetry remains her major passion; she also writes children’s literature. Preethi has written hundreds of poems, which have been published in a variety of places, including her blog, Instagram, and even in a few magazines. She has published a few picture books, as well. Her first book of poetry was published in 2011. Her latest volume, Scribblings of My Soul, recently won three book awards. And her latest nonfiction book, Pearls of My Mind, has won two awards.
Title: Walking with The Sun Genre: Children’s Book Synopsis: One Journey. Two Friends. A big Realization! Following Garud's idea, they walk towards the west to escape the scorching heat. The ignorant friends only learn at the end that they were walking with the sun. Later, there is a big surprise awaiting Gaja! Find The Book HERE: https://amzn.to/3X2SWHe Visit Preethi's Website: https://preethisaravanakumar.wordpress.com/ Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yzscmvaa YouTube: https://youtu.be/bPeRx-j5eyo |
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