Category Archives: Book Tour
VBT – LOVE, LIES AND BAD GUYS
Love, Lies, and Bad Guys
by Bill Blodgett
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GENRE: Romantic Suspense
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BLURB:
When US Marshal Jay Stonewalker sees a possible terrorist comment in a chatroom frequented by anti-government radicals suggesting a nuclear threat to New York City, specifically the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, he can’t get it out of his mind. Against his boss’s orders he heads off to NYC to investigate on his own time. While there he follows a suspicious character into a secluded recess of the New York Subway system and foils what he believes is the terrorist event. In a shoot-out with his suspect he’s wounded and calls the NYC PD for backup. When he sees NYPD Detective KC Daviau and other uniformed officers slipping into the darkness from the subway platform he’s relieved, but to his surprise he’s met with resistance and disrespect by Detective Daviau. Against his objections, KC takes custody of the evidence and leaves the scene. When Jay asks an officer if she is always that way he’s told that, “Since her parents died, she’s been… let’s say… a little cold.” When they are assigned to work the case together, KC’s icy exterior soon begins to melt away as they begin to fall for each other, but KC has to hold back. She has a dark secret and knows he can’t ever know her truths because if he did he would hate her just as she hates herself for what she’s about to do.
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EXCERPT
“I was surprised to see you had body art.”
“It isn’t body art. It is my belief. I guess that’s why I don’t show them. It’s personal. They are of my Goddess, Mother Earth and the symbol of our tribe, the mighty eagle. The Mother Earth Tree Goddess demonstrates the circle of life. Where all things on land, air and water are connected. They are all one. If one element is removed, the tree will wither and die. We believe that it is the same for people. We must be as one or we will all eventually suffer. The Eagle is our symbol for bravery, something that is essential to take on such a derêp.” He saw her puzzled look and continued before she could speak. “Derêp is our word for job or chore. The Eagle is dedicated to protecting our tribe, which is a very difficult job. I use his image to remind myself each day that my task is difficult and not to falter. If you were just another chick, maybe I’d say they were body art, but I want to share that part of me with you.”
“So…” she teased. “How many other chicks have admired your body art?”
He laughed lightly with maybe a hint of a gallows laugh, “Not as many as you might guess.”
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
I still live in the community where I met and married my lovely wife, Janice. Actually, she lived around the corner from me and we both ignored each other until our teen years when the hormone thing kicked in and we suddenly realized that the cute little girl skipping rope and that goofy boy riding a bike had both grown up.
We are the proud parents of April and Lindsay; both of whom are now married. April married Darren and they have two beautiful boys, Brian and Owen. Lindsay married Tim and they have two beautiful children: Kailyn and Evan.
I enjoy hiking, kayaking, camping with my family, golfing, making candles, and restoring my antique European sports car, a 1972 MGB.
They say to write from what you know, so I do. I write of love, life and relationships. In addition to the romantic plot we all expect from a Romance novel all of my books deal with a real-world issue as a sub-plot that we all have had to deal in some manner in life, but not in a preachy way. I find that including this sort of theme helps me identify with my characters on a personal level. My hope is that the reader will also feel that connection with my characters.
I have four other published novels. Dead Or A Lie and Saint’s Sword are vampire Romances. Unrequited is a contemporary novel with romantic elements and received 4 stars from Romantic Times Book Review magazine. The Last Prejudice is a family saga that deals with the issues a family must address when a family member comes out.
I have been a member of the RWA and the Central New York Romance Writers since 2004 and have held various posts in my local group. By day I am a construction inspector for an engineering company.
Please visit my website: www.billblodgett.com or email me at bill@billblodgett.com You can also find me on Facebook at @authorbillblodgett and Twitter @bill_blodgett
Buy link:
Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Lies-Bad-Guys-Connection/dp/B084DFQWWB/
Barnes and Noble
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Love%2C+Lies%2C+and+Bad+Guys+by+Bill+Blodgett
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Bill Blodgett will be awarding a $20 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $20 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Tell us about you as a person.
I hate watching sports other than real games with my kids and grandkids participating! It was so out of the norm for guys in the construction field like myself, but being true to yourself is important to me. So, consequently, I got good-heartedly harassed by my fellow construction workmates because I never had anything to add to the discussion about the big game that was on the night before, but they got over it!
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Growing up in the 1960’s I would have loved to hang out with Martin Luther King. Those days and his influence was so important. In my book, Unrequited, the most influential character is Riggs, an old black man and the son of a son of a slave. In those days maybe this character wouldn’t be accepted. When writing Riggs I sought out guidance from many of my black friend to make sure his character wouldn’t offend the very same people I wanted to complement. I even sought out advice on the word “black” to make sure it would be Okay. MLK broke ground that I hope will never be forgotten or abused.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
Love, Lies, and Bad Guys has a very interesting story behind it. The original title was, The Waldorf Astoria Connection, which is the sub-title now. Shortly after the attacks of September 11th we traveled to visit my daughter who lived in Waldorf, MD. My other daughter lived in Astoria, NY. While on a subway/train going into Washington, D.C. a young man got on the subway and was acting strangely by constantly checking his back pack. The See Something –Say Something signs were all over the subway. So the writer in me imagined a story about a mad bomber on a subway and as a shout out to my daughters I set the story in both Waldorf, MD and Astoria, NY!
What is your writing process?
I really need a secluded and quiet area to write. Music will just distract me and before you know it I’m singing along or drumming out the beat with a pencil or pen. My muse speaks to me as I settle down to go to sleep or when I’m driving the car. The next day I try to pound out those ideas for the next chapter in the book.
Tell us about your main character.
In Love, Lies, and Bad Guys two characters share the title as main character, Jay, a US Marshal, and KC, a NYPD detective. KC probably has the most to win or lose and probably the character most readers will be hoping makes it through this dilemma she’s got herself into. KC’s motivation is fueled by the death of her parent due to radiation exposure where they worked. She has vowed to not let this happen to any more innocent people.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
I liked Chris Pine from the new Star Trek movies. He has really intense eyes and can ramp up his emotions perfectly to match the scene he’s working in. I think this intensity would work well in the movie version.
What are you working on next?
I’m currently working on a sequel to Love, Lies and Bad Guys, subtitled, D.C. Under Siege. (Working title for now) It will take up where Love, Lies, and Bad Guys, The Waldorf Astoria Connection , leaves off, but Jay and KC only make cameo appearances to make room for a new couple of conflicted lovers!
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
I think Facebook and Twitter have a limited value unless you have a great number of followers. I think you have to put yourself in contact with a target rich environment like Good Reads, advertise on review sites like Long and Short Reviews and blog sites where avid readers visit like this site.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks has always been a favorite of mine.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
Extraordinary talents? None! But I do have a special talent of making all sorts of candles. My favorite candle to make is a pillar candle with text or a picture on the outside that glows as the candle burns.
You are given the choice of one super power. What super power would you have and why?
Healing. Wow wouldn’t that be great! It would be spectacular to heal people and see all of the joy it could give to that person and their family and friends. With that who needs money or the ability to leap tall buildings in a single bound.
List 5 things on your bucket list:
- Travel planet earth and see all of the marvelous wonders that there is out there.
- Travel into space even if it was just to the moon. That’s been a childhood dream since the first Apollo Missions when we’d watch in awe as space craft took off.
- Live long enough to watch my Great Great Grandchildren grow up
- Have another 50 years with my childhood sweetheart/wife.
- Drive in a NASCAR race.
Where can readers find you on the web? www.billblodgett.com
Any final thoughts? Thank you so much for having me here. The questions were thought provoking and made me appreciate everything I have.
Trailer https://youtu.be/TwVJ5PiMBtk
VBT – LEARNING TO BEND
Learning To Bend
by Michelle Davis
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GENRE: Women’s Fiction
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BLURB:
Jenna Moore’s flawlessly orchestrated life and engagement to Ben Kelly, “the perfect man,” vanish when she discovers a controlling side of her fiancé. Confused and unsure of who she is without Ben, Jenna decides to uproot from her safe, predictable life in Boston and move to Bend, Oregon, hoping to find her answers there. It’s when she meets Jackson, a former Navy SEAL who battles demons of his own, that Jenna finds the courage to let go of being perfect and embrace uncomfortable risks, transforming her life through forgiveness, compassion, surrender and acceptance. Yet the rewards from discovering her true self exceed Jenna’s expectations – not only does she find the greatest love of her life, but she also understands what’s kept her from learning to bend.
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EXCERPT
Yet, at that moment, there is a subtle shift in my being. As devastated and lost as I feel, a small part of me unfolds, almost releases. I can’t describe the feeling as it’s something I’ve never before experienced. I breathe, inhaling Ben’s scent, knowing it’s most likely the last time I am going to be this close to him. Then Ben moves his hand to the back of my head, pulling me towards him, passionately kissing me as we momentarily return to who we were. My body instinctively takes over as I languish in his taste, surrendering to him, if only for a few seconds. But I come to my senses and pull away. We are no longer the Jenna and Ben who are about to be married in two months. No, that couple is gone. It’s then that I do the unavoidable – I slowly remove the ring from my left finger and press it into Ben’s hand. After all, this is a family antique. It no longer belongs to me. I call for Sam, give Ben a final goodbye kiss on the cheek, and leave.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Michelle Davis, whose career path includes banking, teaching, and college admissions consulting, holds a B.S. in Finance from Lehigh University and a M.S. in Education from St. Joseph’s University. Through her blog, elevate, Michelle’s goal is to inspire others to shift their perspectives and welcome change as they realize their life purpose. A Pennsylvania native, Michelle and her husband enjoy visiting their sons in Boston and spending time in Bend, Oregon, the settings of her debut novel, Learning to Bend. To learn more about Michelle and how to elevate your life, visit www.michellemdavis.net.
https://www.michellemdavis.net
https://www.learningtobend.com
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/LearningtoBend/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/michellemillerdavis/
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Michelle-Davis/e/B083ZLXBXS/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Bend-Michelle-Davis-ebook/dp/B083L5HM7G/
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/learning-to-bend-michelle-m-davis/1136004857
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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE
The author will be awarding a $50 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to one randomly drawn commenter via Rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $50 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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What are four things you can’t live without?
- Coffee
- Exercise of some sort – I get antsy when confined and need to move so I don’t annoy people
- Dogs – I cannot imagine life without our incredible dogs
- Dark chocolate peanut butter cups – I fool myself thinking that the organic ones are good for me
What is your favorite television show?
I love watching Friends. I think that I’ve seen every episode multiple times. In fact, when I’m home alone at night, I’ll watch rerun after rerun – sometimes till one in the morning. I recently had the “aha” moment that most likely my fondness for Friends connects to my childhood when I loved the Archie comic book series. The characters are almost identical. Plus, Friends has the most amazing cast. Wouldn’t you want them to be your friends with Monica, Phoebe, Rachel, Ross, Joey, and Chandler?
If you could be any character, from any literary work, who would you choose to be? Why?
Tough question. It would be very interesting to be Liz Gilbert in Eat, Pray, Love. What incredible life experiences she had – eating in Italy, praying in India, and loving in Indonesia. Plus, Julia Roberts, my all-time favorite actress, played her!
What have you got coming soon for us to look out for?
My next book is called The Healers. It’s quite different from Learning to Bend. In fact, it begins with a murder. More to come later.
What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Amy Impellizzeri, author of Lemongrass Hope, The Truth About Thea, The Secret of Worry Dolls, and Why We Lie, encouraged me to attend her writers’ workshop. That was my introduction to writing (I’m not counting my freshman writing class at Lehigh University). She’s been a dear friend ever since and has served as my mentor.
It’s hard to pinpoint any particular book as influencing my writing, as I believe that my writing is still in its infancy and am unsure as to where it is headed. But I’d have to say that I love the intriguing story line of The Celestine Prophecy. Additionally, the characters are beautifully developed in A Gentleman in Moscow.
VBT – GODDESS OF THE WILD THING
Goddess of the Wild Thing
by Paul DeBlassie III
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GENRE: Thriller
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BLURB:
Winner of the Independent Press Award and the NYC Big Book Award for Visionary Fiction!
Eve Sanchez, a scholar of esoteric studies, is driven into unreal dimensions of horror and hope as she encounters a seductive and frightening man, criminal lawyer Sam Shear.
Sam introduces Eve to a supernatural world in which the wicked powers of a surrogate mother’s twisted affection threaten love and life. Struggling to sort through right from wrong, frightened yet determined, Eve nears despair.
Goddess of the Wild Thing reveals the dramatic tale of one woman’s spiritual journey where metaphysical happenings, unexpected turns of fate, and unseen forces impact her ability to love and be loved.
In the magical realm of Aztlan del Sur, a mythopoeic land of hidden horrors and guiding spirits, Eve, with three friends and a wise old woman, is caught in an age-old struggle about love—whether bad love is better than no love— and discovers that love is a wild thing.
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EXCERPT
Eve sharpened her focus. She saw the sharp nail of a witch’s right finger tracing Graciéla’s image on a foggy mirror in a grungy bathroom, touching the center of the mirror with a hatred so intense, the glass burned red hot. The mirror in Graciéla’s kitchen cracked. Shards jettisoned at the old healer then were magically warded off and drifted in place about her head and neck.
Graciéla’s energy, tired as she was, had fended off the pointed shards. She hadn’t been impaled. But the strain had ushered her from one world to the next. Death came not by the hand of another but by a weakened mind and body defending itself.
Eve, shaken, allowed her soft touch to stay on Graciéla’s forehead, confirming the horror of what she’d seen. Shamanic wisdom, often discussed between the two kindred souls, spoke to Eve as she stroked her friend’s head, remembering that death provided passage for one whose life had been well spent and whose time had come.
Eve wept.
After a few moments, she closed her friend’s green eyes and whispered tenderly, “Always my friend, always love, always together in life and in death.” She stood and wiped the tears from her eyes. A gray-brown, green-eyed, great horned owl hooted from the largest cottonwood branch outside the back window.
Eve heard Shirley finishing her call to the EMTs and police, and then walking to the front of the store to await their arrival.
One large shard lay at the end of the table, sharp tip pointed outward. It reflected Eve’s image, a glowing red ember menacingly centered at the brow point.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Paul DeBlassie III, Ph.D. is a depth psychologist and award-winning writer living in his native New Mexico. He specializes in treating individuals in emotional and spiritual crisis. His novels, visionary thrillers, delve deep into archetypal realities as they play out dramatically in the lives of everyday people. Memberships include the Author’s Guild, Visionary Fiction Alliance, Depth Psychology Alliance, International Association for Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy, and the International Association for Jungian Studies.
Website: pauldeblassieiii.com
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Goddess-Wild-Thing-Paul-DeBlassie-ebook/dp/B07656JLNR/ref=sr_1_1
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RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
Paul DeBlassie III will be awarding $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Thanks for being my guest today. Tell us about you as a person.
I am a psychotherapist and writer of visionary thrillers. I live with Kate, an artist and my wife of 40 years. We’ve raised four wonderful children – writers and artists one and all.
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?:
I’d hang out with the one and only grand master of the supernatural thriller, Algernon Blackwood. He’s an old man with old wisdom about the unseen world and everyday realities.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
In therapy, I help patients through love issues just like what happens in Goddess of the Wild Thing, how it dramatizes what happens more often that we think.
What is your writing process?
An idea springs to mind then, if it lingers over months and sometimes years, I hit the page running and word after word, sentences and paragraphs a story is birthed. Then comes the cleanup – edits, edits, edits, etc. As we all know, the writing is in the rewriting!
Tell us about your main character:
Eve Sanchez, the protagonist of the story, encounters a seductive and frightening man, criminal lawyer Sam Shear. He introduces Eve to a supernatural world in which the wicked powers of a surrogate mother’s twisted affection threaten love and life. The evil woman walks a fine line between sanity and insanity, dark and mysterious happenings in her wake. Where there’s love, there is often a woman who feels spurned and wills the demise of the loved woman. Eve struggles to discover the identity of the evil woman, a fierce battle with an unexpected outcome.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why.
Salma Hayek would propel the drama-filled love story forward with the intensity of her presence and capacity for empathy.
What are you working on next?
The Goddess of Everything is about ready for professional editing, a thriller about mother love gone bad and the need to break free.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
Book pr is a long-term process that is ongoing, daily, and requires consistent commitment and passion.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
Tim Prasil’s, Guilt is a Ghost.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
I love what I do and do what I love!
VBT – JUNGLE BEAUTY GODDESSES SERIES
Jungle Beauty Goddesses Series: Pretty Blue, Aquatic Ball, Dirty Ball
by C. G. Sturges
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GENRE: Fantasy, Erotica
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BLURB:
Jungle Beauty Goddesses “Pretty Blue” Book 1
If you were given planet Earth as a gift to develop its life forms—would the world be a better place than it is today? What would your primary expectation and goal be for each human? Would you give them free will or plan their destiny? Would you demand that your humans worship you as their creator? Would you be available to assuage their every desire; and acquiesce to their demands, prayers, and wishes? Would you grow to resent them for living the life you imagined?
The Jungle Beauty Goddesses were free-spirited goddesses who enjoyed their freedom as the youngest children—and the last deities born to their parents—creators of the universe. Per the family tradition of being awarded a planet, the septuplets were given planet Earth as a gift for their birthday. Their siblings, also gods and goddesses of the universe since the beginning of time, warn them about the challenges of selflessness, power, worship, and divine duty.
The seven sisters struggle to maintain their own freedom as limitless beings, while sibling rivalry makes it difficult to accept their collective duty to fulfill the family obligation to the deity-hood as creators for planets.
The entire universe threatens to collapse due to their negligence and disobedience. They question the boundaries of their divine powers as they ponder whether it is possible to mold a being to be superior to its creator.
Jungle Beauty Goddesses “Aquatic Ball” Book 2
Sometimes your worst nightmare is having everything you ever wanted. Upon visiting planet Earth, the Jungle Beauty Goddesses discover that the life forms they created are in danger of extinction, and an unforeseen dominant species has positioned itself to take dominion.
Unprepared and disillusioned about how to access their highest vibrational frequency; the Jungle Beauty Goddesses face their own demise.
The only way they can save themselves, their planet, and ultimately the universe is by managing to align with their deity powers and the wisdom of their highest selves in the face of their worst fears, disappointments, and betrayals.
Jungle Beauty Goddesses “Dirty Ball” Book 3
If you had the power to make anyone in the world fall in love with you—would you? Jungle Beauty Goddess Afar revokes her deity vows and takes her destiny into her own hands by participating in the life she was born to create for others.
Afar embraces the deepest, darkest nuances of her shadow self with brutality, dignity, and integrity. She brazenly unleashes the murkiest qualities of the human condition and leaves the chaos for her unsuspecting sisters to clean up or suffer the consequences of losing the planet given to them by their parents–creators of the universe.
Jungle Beauty Goddess Afar’s actions give a new meaning to the saying, “Hell has no fury like a woman scorned.”
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EXCERPT
Solution: We, the merbeings /mermaids/merfolks, are on the side of the Jungle Beauty Goddesses. We want to preserve the natural beauty of Earth and all of its life forms that are capable of adapting to Earth’s natural environment causing the least amount of damage to the cosmos.
We, the Mermaids, do not need to me be monitored like humans. We do not need the assistance of other worldly guides, angels, or higher order omnificent beings to exist and coexist peacefully with like-minded beings on planet Earth.
We will not use or create industrialized products or services, technology, or substances that will destroy the Earth’s natural resources. The Earth, as it is, without alterations, machines, or chemicals creates the prime and ultimate living conditions for our species.
Summary:
We are the natural evolutionary heirs to planet earth bequeathed by the hands of destiny. Planet earth is rapidly becoming an aquatic planet designed for life forms which can adapt to a water-only environment. If you sign planet Earth over to us for safekeeping—you will never have to worry about this planet being selfishly exploited for its resources. You will never have to come here again and you are free to live your life as you please.
With the deepest Respect and Love,
Merlady Jophiel
MerladyJophiel
Merlady Gabrielle
Merlady Gabrielle
By signing this document, you are collectively agreeing to give Planet Earth to Mermaids who would graciously take domain over all life forms in this world.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
Cassandra George Sturges is the author of “A Woman’s Soul on Paper,” “Success & Beauty is an Attitude,” “The Illusion of Beauty: Why Women Hate Themselves & Envy Other Women,” and “Why Racism is a Mental Illness.” For many years, she was an advice columnist for Today’s Black Woman Magazine and is currently a full-time psychology and sociology professor at a college in the mid-west. She is a high school dropout who graduated with her General Education Diploma and eventually earned five college degrees including two masters and a doctorate degree. In her late forties, she began making life-size fabric sculpture, cloth dolls that turned out to be the main characters in her Jungle Beauty Goddesses coming of age, modern creation Nubian Mythology fantasy fiction, sensuous, romantic series. She is the mother of two adult children, a grandmother, and for over 20-years has shared her life with her twin flame.
Cassandra George Sturges Social Media Links
https://www.facebook.com/Authentikbeauty
https://www.authentikbeautymagazine.com/c-g-sturges-bio
https://twitter.com/georgesturges
https://www.instagram.com/cassandrasturges/
http://junglebeautygoddess.blogspot.com/
https://www.youtube.com/user/AuthentikBeautyBlogs
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One randomly chosen winner via rafflecopter will win a $50 Amazon/BN.com gift card.
Enter to win a $50 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Any weird things you do when you’re alone?
I talk to my Star Alien Being Gemstones and Crystal Skulls. I love them and they love me. They all have different energies, properties, and personalities. I wear them in the center of my bra most days. They highlight and exude different parts of my personality. When I want to be charismatic and devilish—I wear my peach aventurine. When I need protection, I wear my clear Black Tourmaline Rutilated Quartz Crystal Star Alien Being. When I need to get things done and be extremely organized, I wear my Citrine Star Alien Being. I also noticed that people treat me differently based on the alien being or crystal skull that I am wearing. Random people speak to me and are kind when I wear my African Jade Alien Being and my blue apatite skull. When no one is looking, in stairwells, elevators, when I am in the car alone… we have conversations about what is going on in my surroundings. At the end of the day, I try to remember to kiss them and thank them for accompanying for that day.
What is your favorite quote and why?
My Favorite quote in the universe is: “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” By Dr. Seuss. I have been teaching Sociology and Psychology full-time for 20-years and I have this quote centered at the top of all of my courses syllabi. I encourage my students to be authentically truthful and respectful during class discussions because I believe as human beings we grow and evolve through each other’s truth. The richest, juicy, class insights and discussions have come from students sharing their truth. I tell my students that 2+2 = 4 all over the world, at every school—so the content that they are learning can be absorbed from home reading a book—but the collective energy of each student’s history, culture, and beliefs creates a unique learning experience that will never be duplicated ever again in human history. This is why it is essential to the learning process that my student’s share their honest opinions, outlooks, and beliefs about life.
VBT – FALSE LIGHT
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.
Academic sleuths Erika Shawn, art magazine editor, and Harrison Wheatley, a more seasoned art history professor, set out to tackle a brain teaser. This time the couple—married since their encounter in Stolen Light, first in the series—attempt to crack the long un-deciphered code of art forger Eric Hebborn (1934-1996), which promises to reveal the whereabouts of a number of his brilliant Old Master counterfeits. (Hebborn, in real life, was a mischievous sort, who had a fascination with letters and a love-hate relationship with art authenticators. I felt compelled to devise a puzzler on his behalf!) After publication of his memoir, Drawn to Trouble, published in 1991, he encrypts two copies with clues to the treasure hunt. On each of the title pages, he pens a tantalizing explanatory letter. One copy he sends to an art expert; the second, he releases into general circulation. The catch: both books are needed to decipher the code.
When the books are at last united 25 years later, Erik and Harrison are enlisted to help unearth their hidden messages. But when several research aides are brutally murdered, the academic challenge leads to far darker mysteries in the clandestine world of art crime. As the couple navigate this sinister world, both their courage under fire and the stability of their relationship are tested.
Read an Excerpt
“You must try a crostini,” came a vaguely familiar voice from above. Harrison looked up, surprised to encounter the striking figure of Aldo Fabbri pressing forward a fair young tray-bearer, his hand at the small of her back.
Harrison’s love fest with Florence was instantly tarnished. “Good to see you,” he said nevertheless, extending his hand to Aldo before plucking an hors d’oeuvre of bread and chicken liver pate from the waitress’s tray. “Come sit down,” he suggested with a near-genuine smile.
“Certamente,” said Aldo. “But first we must request the wine—from the Fabbri vineyard, of course.” Aldo turned to the waitress. “Per favore, a bottle of the Chianti Classico riserva,” he slickly commanded, with a proprietary ogle. “As you might recall,” he said, turning back to Harrison, “it’s our signature wine, made from the Sangiovese grape. This year’s crop”—he glanced heavenward—“supremo!” With a nod, he dismissed the waitress, then pulled out a chair.
“I didn’t see you at the conference,” Harrison said, trying not to recollect in vivid detail Aldo’s play for Erika’s affections at their encounter in Tuscany over a year ago. The seduction attempt had taken place when he and Erika had visited the Fabbri estate as part of their art recovery mission. Erika had not succumbed to Aldo’s efforts, but her moment of hesitation had caused Harrison great consternation. What a presumptive asshole! he silently hurled at himself. Erika had been in the initial stages of breaking free of her mistrust in men because of what she was beginning to see in Harrison, and he had not shown her the least bit of empathy in response. “The lecture hall was rather crowded,” he said, thrusting his attention to the subject at hand. “Perhaps you were hiding in the rear?”
“Alas, I arrived too late to attend the talks,” Aldo said, smoothing back his coal black mane.
He’s lost the golden highlights, Harrison realized. Gives the bastard a less flighty look.
“However, I did hear your talk on Gericault was admirable—ah, here’s our wine,” Aldo noted, at the waitress’s approach.
The wine was uncorked; the glasses filled; hearty samples downed; Harrison’s authentic praise begrudgingly delivered.
“To a successful book tour!” Aldo sang, raising his glass. “Salute!”
As they clicked glasses, Aldo cocked his head, as if at a sound in the distance. “I’m wondering. Whatever became of that woman you were with—Erika Shawn was her name, una donna molto bella e special! As I recall, a free spirit finding herself tethered to Puritanism, or merely conflicted by it. Either way, a pity.”
“Tethered to me, if you must know,” Harrison said, as coolly as his clenched jaw would allow. “As my wife.”
“Ah, lucky man to have tamed her!” Aldo looked about. “But where is she? Another toast is in order!”
“Back home, in New York. Working.”
“Yes?” Aldo gave him a bemused smile. “Quite a long tether, I’d say.”
About the Author:
Claudia Riess, a Vassar graduate, has worked in the editorial departments of The New Yorker and Holt, Rinehart, and Winston and has edited several art history monographs.
https://www.amazon.com/Claudia-Riess/e/B001KHYQK2
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3052782.Claudia_Riess
https://twitter.com/ClaudiaRiess
https://claudiariessbooks.com/
http://www.facebook.com/ClaudiaRiessBooks
https://www.pinterest.com/claudiariessbooks/
https://www.instagram.com/claudiariessbooks/
Buy the book for only $0.99.
https://www.amazon.com/False-Light-Art-History-Mystery-ebook/dp/B07ZPBRF2G
Claudia Riess will be awarding one $50 Amazon GC to a randomly drawn commenter via rafflecopter during the tour, and a set of Art History Mystery Books: Stolen Light and False Light (US Only) to three randomly drawn winners via rafflecopter during the tour.
VBT – CHEROKEE SUMMER
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
When Ace leaves home to spend the summer in Cherokee, North Carolina the last thing she expects to find is a boyfriend—until she meets Cherokee Tribe member John Spears. As Ace and John’s friendship blossoms, they find their life experiences mirror each other and they fall in love. Despite hurdles thrown by well-meaning family members and jealous frenemies, the star-crossed lovers remain committed to their mutual belief that the universe has drawn them together. However, when Ace sends John a strange text and then suddenly disappears, the two must rely on their trust in each other to save both their lives and their love.
Read an Excerpt
She sweeps her tongue over her lower lip and puckers up. I wrap my hand around the back of her neck and we both lean forward until our lips touch. I start off slow, keeping the pressure to a minimum. Her mouth is soft and warm and tastes sweet, like fruity gum. I stroke the tender skin behind her ear with the pad of my thumb. She sighs, then opens her mouth, inviting me in.
Holy freaking wow.
Our tongues meet in the middle and slide all over the place. My head pounds against my ribs so hard I wholly expect one to crack. She tastes so fine. I can’t breathe, but I don’t care. Oxygen is something we need on earth, and I’m clearly somewhere else. I brace my knee beneath the steering wheel to keep the lack of gravity from pulling me out of my seat. After all, this kiss doesn’t mean anything.
About the Author:
I am an IT by day, hip-shaker and writer by night, artist whenever possible, and an internet addict. I live in the sunny south with my teenage son and two Cairn Terriers.
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18714788.Susan_Antony
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/susanantonycs
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanAntonyCS/
Website: http://susanantony.com
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/susanantony
Book Bub Author Page: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/susan-antony
The book is only $0.99.
Buy Links
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cherokee-summer-susan-antony/1129952570
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Cherokee-Summer-Susan-Antony-ebook/dp/B07L7GLGRG/
iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/cherokee-summer/id1446915745
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/cherokee-summer
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Susan_Antony_Cherokee_Summer?id=hJaDDwAAQBAJ
Scribd: https://www.scribd.com/book/397450344/Cherokee-Summer
Hoopla: https://www.hoopladigital.com/title/12297775
Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Cherokee-Summer-eBook/989746632
Susan Antony will be awarding a free ebook copy of Cherokee Summer to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
VBT – ESSAYS FROM DYSFUNCTIONAL FAMILIES
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Two books in one (Kinda Sorta). Something Different. Essays from Dysfunctional Families is a fictional book which contains essays from ten different American residents. The book is written by fictional writer Dean K Brent. The book Literary Betrayal is a fiction written by Casey Bell, which tells the story of the aftermath of Dean writing the book Essays. Betrayal explores the possibility of what people might do if they discovered a bestseller written by a relative/friend is based on their life.
Read an Excerpt
Allison K.
Village of Shorewood, Wisconsin
When I was seven years old, I was adopted by a gay couple. I really didn’t understand the concept, but a part of me was happy to be living in a home and not at an adoption agency. They were really nice to me and treated me very well. I never wanted for anything. I guess you can say I was spoiled. However, there was always a part of me that wondered where my real parents were. I would ask on occasions, but neither one of my dads would answer me. After being ignored I began to become that loud wheel. You know the one that gets the most attention. I would ask about my parents more frequently and would ask if we could go to the adoption agency and figure out where they are. Finally, after much reservation my dads finally caved in and took me to the agency. To my surprise my parents lived not so far from me, but signed papers stating they didn’t want to see me; that hurt. However, through much research I found both my grandparents and without my dads’ knowledge sought them out. Both sets of my grandparents were happy to meet me. It was by them that I found out the truth about my parents. It was truth that I did not want to know. Both my parents did not want a child at the time…the condom broke. I never in my life felt so unwanted and angry.
About the Author:
Proud Uncle Casey Bell has authored two Young Adult books, three General Fiction, three Non-Fiction, two Short-Stories, one Horror, one book of Poetries, five Children books, one book of collection of Art, and has produced four Word Search books. Twenty-two books in total, but has no intentions of slowing down. He enjoys sharing stories, ideas, and art that cause people to think beyond the box. Not only a writer, but also a playwright, graphic designer, fine artist, and fashion designer.
Website: https://www.authorcaseybell.com
Tumblr: https://caseysbell.tumblr.com/
MySpace: https://myspace.com/caseysamuelbell
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15362662.Casey_Bell
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caseysbell/
Buy the book for only $0.99.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Essays-Dysfunctional-Families-Dean-Brent-ebook/dp/B00RBV05C4/
Casey Bell will be awarding a free eBook copy of the book as well as a free eBook copy of her book A Family of Strangers to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
VBT – Jay Got Married
Jay Got Married
by James Robinson Jr.
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GENRE: Non-Fiction Humor
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BLURB:
Jay Got Married consists of 9 humorous and, at times, poignant essays chronicling the ironies of everyday life in word and picture. Take for example the lead essay, aptly titled, “Jay got Married,” where I find myself mired in a horrendous dream.
In the fantasy, my aging father–dressed in his favorite Champion t-shirt with stains covering the front–marries my wife and I like he did 42 years ago but, this time around, the my 92-year-old ex-clergy dad forgets his lines causing me to coach him through the event with hints like: “ask for the rings, ask for the rings.” All the while, my best man sings Sonny and Cher’s, “I Got You Babe.”
Finally married, my wife and I end the ceremony with a kiss. But as I turn to exit, my eyes catch a glimpse of the bridesmaid who is no longer my wife’s best friend but now Gal Gadot from Dell Comics and Wonder Woman Fame. She is dressed in full Wonder Women regalia and looks totally shocked by the whole affair.
My mother turns to my father (now in the audience) with a quizzical look and says, “Dad, look at that bridesmaid. Isn’t that Superman?” She doesn’t get out much.
As we exit the church, and the bubbles fill the air–no one uses rice anymore—my wife ignores the limo and takes off on a sleek motorcycle, leaving me in the lurch—hence the cover.
Sure, it’s sounds crazy. But, in truth, isn’t the world of marriage crazy these days? In my case, what would one do when faced with the prospect of losing their beloved wife after 42 years? At age 67, would they remarry? Would they even want to remarry? These and other marital tidbits are discussed with humor and as much reverence as I could muster.
P.S. The author pairs up with Wonder Woman again in a final bit of photo wizardry Why? How? How are tricky copyright infringement laws avoided? Read Jay Got Married and find out.
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EXCERPT
You’re like, “What’s the big deal? Sure, it’s a sad thing, but don’t be too hasty. People fill that void in their lives all the time. It can happen. Sure, you’ve lost someone near and dear to you. But you could get over it. Even at your age. Time heals all wounds.” (Boy, you could’ve done better than that.) “People are living longer now. You’ll have more time to think this through. I see couples remarrying in their 70s and 80s.”
And I say, “While that may be true, I have to ask myself how I could find someone after a tragic death, when married people can’t seem to decide who they want while they’re both still among the living. I see people divorce and remarry two, three, four, and even five times. Amongst the marital shrapnel, some have their next spouses all picked out before the split.
Switch partners in the middle of a dance four or five times? Really? After a few shots at it, I would have to practice a little self-examination. I think I’d ask myself, “Am I missing something? Shouldn’t I be wondering if a pattern is developing?” Before I jump a fifth set of bristles, I’d be thinking, Why do I keep marrying people and divorcing them? Could it be… could it be… could it be… me?
Well, the difference is, you can count these cast-offs in the still among the living category. You can always figure on those exes to be around to torture for alimony, child support, and just general purposes. But once they’re gone, you’d have to feel some kind of grief. Even if you only see their name in the obituary and suck your teeth.
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AUTHOR Bio and Links:
James Robinson, Jr. is an award-wining author who has written 6 books in both the fiction and non-fiction genres. His first book Fighting the Effects of Gravity: A Bittersweet Journey Into Middle Life, was an Indie Award winner for nonfiction. His first foray into fiction, Book of Samuel, was a Readers’ Favorite Award Winner. His latest book—Jay Got Married—is a collection of 9 humorous, sometimes poignant essays.
Mr. Robinson resides in Pittsburgh, PA with his wife of 43 years. He is the father of three daughters ages 37, 38, and 40 and has six grandchildren
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/James-Robinson-Jr./e/B0074O0QLI%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesJRobinsonJr/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jamesrobinsonj1
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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE:
James Robinson Jr. will be awarding a $25 Amazon or Barnes and Noble GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon/BN GC – a Rafflecopter giveaway
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James, thanks for being my guest. Tell us about you as a person.
I was born in 1952 and endured the tempestuous 60’s which included flower power, Black Power, the death of Martin Luther King, Jr., and Joan Baez music. I recently wrote a book about my father’s (a minister’s) life which included his exploits as a civil rights advocate during the sixties. Attended Carnegie Mellon University (an English major in an Engineering College, go figure).
If you could hang out with one famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Ryan Reynolds. He seems like an interesting guy with a good sense of humor. #2—Gal Godot of Wonder Woman fame. No, I don’t care how hot she is; I need a picture with her for my book. Read it—or zip through the Jay Got Married Essay—and you’ll see why.
What’s the story behind your latest book?
Jay Got Married is a collection of 9 humorous essays told in a tongue-in-cheek style. The book centers around my views on life sometimes touching upon real-life issues. I find that essays are the best vehicle for me because I can tell one story at a time.
What is your writing process?
Oddly enough, I took a psych course in college where I remember the professor saying that you shouldn’t listen to the TV or radio because they are distracting—they are, in fact, in business to get your attention. So the best thing to do is to use some kind of white noise (they didn’t use that term way back then) like a fan or something similar. So a fan serves me best. Once I began to have children and grandchildren, however, my concentration has improved greatly, I am much better at blocking out noise. I still can’t compete with Metallica.
Tell us about your main character.
N/A But in a book of essays where I rely on personal experiences, my friends, family, and casual acquaintances are the main characters. My wife wasn’t very happy at all to be a main character.
If your book was to be turned into a movie, who would play the lead role and why?
If anyone turned this book into a movie they would need to be institutionalized. But I would have to play the lead; I’m the only one crazy enough.
What are you working on next?
I’m working on a sequel to my first book, Fighting the Effects of Gravity: One Man’s Journey Into Middle Life. I was middle aged when I wrote that book but now, I’m 67 and staring into the face of old age. The new book is tentatively titled: Old Age Sucks.
What advice do you have for other writers who want to get the word out about their book?
I always use promotions like KND (Kindle Nation Daily) and blog tours. KND promotions are great for a one-day blitz. Unfortunately, your sales numbers will take a precipitous drop the next day. There are blog tours that are very good for obtaining 7-8 reviews but aren’t meant to sell books. In theory, authors are supposed to twitter but I hate to do that. Libraries will also allow authors to use their facility to hold lectures and they will even post signs for upcoming author events.
What is your favorite book on your shelf right now?
Kurt Vonnegut’s Breakfast of Champions.
Do you have any special/extraordinary talents?
No, and thanks for making me feel insignificant.
You are given the choice of one superpower. What superpower would you have and why?
Sing like John Legend. I don’t want to fly and it seems like a superpower to me.
List 5 things on your bucket list:
- Learn how to play piano to impress my family and friends.
- Learn how to fly. Not like Superman. Fly a plane.
- Test drive the new, mid-engine Corvette
- Sell 100,000 books
- Take vacations in Hilton Head Island, SC like we used to before we started taking care of my 90-year-old parents.
Any final thoughts?
Buy my book; I’m poor.
