Blog Posts

Author Interview: Sonya McKinzie

2/12/2018

Meet Sonya McKinzie, Author of Thrive-Her: Women That Walk Confidently and Spiritually from Surviving to Thriving

BBB: Tell us about yourself.

SM: Sonya A. McKinzie is a 15-year and second-generation survivor of domestic violence and advocates for domestic violence victims and survivors. She is a single mother of a remarkable 6-year old princess. As the founder and executive director or Women of Virtue Transitional Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, charitable and humanitarian organization that advocates for survivors/victims of abuse and acts to spread awareness about bullying, domestic and teen violence prevention she strives to make a difference in their lives. Further she works to empower girls and women to live healthy, productive and fulfilling lives. Sonya holds a MA in Human Services Counseling with a focus in addictions and recovery, BA in Business Management and is a certified victims advocate. She has authored four books of which one was a co-authoring project. She is the creator and founder of the Blog Daily Journeys – Women of Virtue – Darkskinisbeautiful (The name was born through her challenges and struggles with being taunted for her dark skin. The same skin she has come to love and embrace). She is also the creator of the facebook group ThriveHer: Women that walk confidently and spiritually from surviving to thriving. The group is an extension of her November 2017 book release.

BBB: What inspired your book?

SM: Thrive-Her: Women That Walk Confidently and Spiritually from Surviving to Thriving was created based on the foundation of her spiritual walk with God and her past. I think most readers will find the book real, relatable, spiritually defining and uplifting. This project will help readers unmask their trials, hard-knock life experiences, and secrets while being comfortable and transparent in doing so.

BBB: What other books have you written?

SM: I have written Heaven Rain on me, Perfectly Imperfect, co-authored a chapter in the anthology “Soul Source” and my latest book ThriveHer of which three of the books have been best sellers.

BBB: How did you come up with the idea for your book cover?

SM: I had a photo shoot earlier last year and some of the pictures displayed a complete sense of confidence, beauty and regality. When the photographer showed me the picture, I thought “Who is she” and “Is this really me”? After choosing to use the picture, I chose to use a purple orchid in the background, which is my favorite color and flower. Purple is defined as regal, respectable and royalty and purple is the known color for domestic violence awareness – with all these things in mind – the cover was born.

BBB: What are you currently working on?

SM: I am currently working on two projects, one is a compilation of my poems and haikus and the other is a book of guiding words and messages – uplifting and powerful.

BBB: How can readers discover more about you and your work?

SM: Readers visit my web site, blog and follow my social media pages which are located below:

Blog: https://darkskinisbeautiful.wordpress.com/
Web site: http://www.perfectly-imperfect-womenofvirtue.com
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/ThriveHer2017
Facebook Organization Page: https://www.facebook.com/WomenofVirtueTransitionalFoundation
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/womenofvirtuefoundation/

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Author Interview: Sharon Crittendon

1/16/2018

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Meet Sharon Crittendon, Author of Prayer Plus Faith Equals Miracles: 31 Days of Fervent Prayers

BBB: Tell us about yourself

SC: I was born in Rochester, New York. Subsequently, my family moved to Chicago, Illinois where I spent the majority of my teenage and young adult years. I received my master’s degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago and my doctorate from Benedictine University in Lisle, IL. After earning my doctorate, I married my husband who is now the pastor of Rest-Oration Church in Champaign, Illinois. During my time in ministry and as a pastor’s wife, I have had the opportunity of working with many families who are seeking healing and deliverance, paying particular attention to women. I generally work women who are having trouble moving beyond their past hurt, anger and unsettling experiences. As a conference speaker and facilitator, I have dedicated my time to helping women to move beyond the broken places of their past and realize that there is a bigger, better and brighter future ahead. I declared that 2018 would my year of giving back to others! In this same vain, I have recently started an organized effort to raise money and collect care bags and blankets for the homeless who live on the streets of Chicago. I have dedicated 100% of my book sales to fight against homelessness which is a big problem in Chicago. Anyone who purchases my book will be doing so to help a greater cause, which is to help the less fortunate.

As a young adult, I would sit and read various fiction books which sparked a desire to write fiction books. I had no clue how to get started so I never followed through until recently. Although I have not written any fiction works, based on passions and calling to ministry, I have started a new journey of writing Christian non-fiction, spiritual books.

BBB: What do you think readers will find most appealing about your book?

SC: My book entitled “Prayer Plus Faith Equals Miracles: 31 Days of Fervent Prayer” is a 31 day prayer devotional. Based on reviews that I have received thus far, readers have found that as believers, they are lacking a real and true relationship or daily connection with the Holy Spirit. This is more than just a book, but it is a journey of prayer and communing with our God. Many have found that reading this book has either caused them to start a prayer life or enhanced their existing prayer life. Readers have also found that as they read each prayer daily, that the prayers are focused and effective. This book has helped so many to continue to grow with the Lord and build up their faith.

BBB" How did you come up with the idea for your book cover?

SC: I imagined the title of the book and what that looks like in relation to what the scriptures say about the words in my title which are prayer, faith and miracles. After spending time in prayer and deep thought about what this book means to me and what it can do for the lives of others, the first thought that came to mind was when Jesus walked on water and the disciples had little faith that he had the power to perform this task. It was through our trust and faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, that we can believe that we can do the impossible.

BBB: What are you currently working on?

SC: I am currently working on my next Christian Non-fiction book entitled: “Guard Your Heart: A Guide to Victorious Living.” This is a self-help book for just about anyone who has ever dealt with having a broken heart. It will help readers to understand why they go through broken hearts and how to prevent it from crippling their future relationships. It will be ideal for singles to help them find the right relationship with the person that God has designed just for them and prepare them for marriage. It will also be best suited for those who are seeking spiritual guidance on how to develop a relationship with God, and how to foster healthy holistic friendships.

BBB: How can readers discover more about you and your work?

SC: Readers can discover more about my work by visiting my author page on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/0692952047. OR, they can follow me on Facebook author page at Sharon Crittenden; on twitter@scrittenden42 and Instagram@scrittenden41.

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Author Interview: Elliot Parker

12/12/2017

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Meet Elliot Parker, author of Demon, Interrupted

BBB: Tell us about yourself.

EP: Good Morning! My name is Elliot Parker and I am a 38 year old author of Urban Fatasy. My debut novel Demon, Interrupted is out today! I have been transplanted into the deep South from the stark and cold North. My day job is in academia. I have a deep love for science and analytics but me life would not be complete without art. When people talk about right brain and left brain I always feel like I am split right down the middle. Writing for me has always been the perfect blend of both. I can use my analytical brain to plot and structure and scheme, and I can use my creative brain to spark the initial ideas and fill in all the fantasy and finer brush strokes of my stories. I love animals and am constantly finding new ways to add to my menagerie of dogs, cats, turtles, fish, birds, goats, and horses.

BBB: What inspired your book, Demon, Interrupted?

EP: What started my writing journey was the need to connect with an old friend. My best friend from childhood and I had grown apart after high school. We traveled different paths in our lives and our connection had grown sporadic. When we reconnected after years apart she was struggling very outwardly with depression. It helped me to understand and reflect on my own very inward struggles with depression. We both needed a lifeline and it was writing. A joint venture began to write together, and consistently communicate by trading ideas and pages and critiquing each other. What started out as a way to reconnect, turned into fulfilling publishing journey for both of us. My journey was much slower (because she is a WAY better writer than me), but no less rewarding. To this day she is one of the first people I turn to with new ideas or when I need help.

The story of Demon, Interrupted itself was spawned from a kind of “Ah-ha” moment when I recognized that Catholicism has such a deep and rich history. It would be a never ending well of material if I could harness it. How could I use Catholicism the way Rick Riordan uses the Greeks? The Patron Saints were my answer. There are so many each with multiple unique “powers”. What if those powers were real and genetic? What if they could be passed from generation to generation? That is the crux of my fantasy world in Demon, Interrupted.

BBB: Tell us about your main character.

EP: Evangeline Lawson, my main character is the last living descendant of Saint Anthony of Pauda, the Patron Saint of Lost Articles. She has the supernatural ability to find any missing object. Her family has been hunted and systematically extinguished leaving her scared and untrained in her abilities. When her back is against the wall she follows a supernatural trail of breadcrumbs to the world’s most morally ambiguous angel. She will be trained and tested within an inch of her life if she hopes to survive long enough to take her place in this supernatural world (or lead it…maybe).

BBB: What do you think readers will find most appealing about your book?

EP: I hope what readers will find most appealing about my book is the blend of science into fantasy. All my training and education is in research science so even when I am weaving fantastical powers, I try to support it in some basis of science. I am fascinated by Quantum Theory and on an atomic level especially. Things can get tangled quickly when you take into consideration the affects an observer can have. I exploited the theories of observer affects in my novel for many of the powers the character exhibited. What if a person’s will power is tangible? What if they could not only exert it on a particle but expand it to an entire living being? The stronger your will power the more powerful you could be in this world. You don’t need money or prestige to become powerful in this world, you only need to have a strong will.

BBB: How can readers discover more about you and your work?

EP: I love hearing from and connecting with readers. Writing is a lonely endeavor so to know that someone out there in the ether connected with something that I wrote? It brings me such joy! Please find me at my website www.elliotparker.com, on Facebook @authorelliotparker, or on Twitter @AuthorEParker. If you sign up for my newsletter you can get a free prequel to Demon, Interrupted called the Sins of Saint Anthony. Thank you so much!

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Author Interview: Ammar Habib

12/3/2017

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Meet Ammar Habib, author of the Dark Guardian Book Series

Ammar Habib is a bestselling and award winning author who was born in Lake Jackson, Texas in 1993. Ammar enjoys crafting stories that are not only entertaining, but will also stay with the reader for a long time. Ammar presently resides in his hometown with his family, all of whom are his biggest fans. He draws his inspiration from his family, imagination, and the world around him.

BBB: What inspired your Dark Guardian Series?

AH: The Dark Guardian Series is a superhero/vigilante, action/thriller series. It follows the adventures of Ethan Daniels and his alter ego of the vigilante called The Guardian. Throughout the series, Ethan battles many dark forces, some worldly and others more mystical. The series was inspired by many of the comics I read growing up along with a lot of my own imagination. It currently contains three novels and four shot stories. The novels are Dark Guardian, Dark Guardian: A New Dawn, & Dark Guardian: Legends.

I’m a big fan of action stories in all genres (books, comics, movies, etc.). So my reading of the genre was definitely a major inspiration. I’ve also been blessed with a constantly active imagination since childhood which never really shuts down, so that is another major source of inspiration.

BBB: Tell us about the series’ main character, Ethan Daniels.

AH: Ethan Daniels starts off the series as a very torn character. He is a darker anti-hero, his initial motives purely selfish. However, as the series moves along, he progresses from a selfish character motivated by revenge into a hero who acts as a beacon for others and puts the good of others above his own selfish desires. Each novel in the series contains a very unique arc for his character development.

Ethan is the heir to a fortune and possesses some pretty impressive physical skills. However, his best assets aren’t his money or physical strength. It’s his iron will and determination that helps him win the day many times. However, his weakness is that he is never satisfied with himself. Ethan is the kind of person who will ignore his 99 successes and focus on his 1 failure, sometimes making him his own worst enemy.

A very important aspect of Ethan’s character is his relationship with the series’ heroine, Katrina. Although this is definitely not a romance series, I’ve always viewed the story as a love story. I say this because Ethan’s and Katrina’s love for each other is often the thing that keeps them from falling off the brink. Readers see their love mature as Ethan’s character changes through the course of the novels. It grows from a very boyish/girlish love in the first book and into a more spiritual connection by the third one.

BBB: What do you think readers will find most appealing about this series?

AH: That’s a great question, and the full answer is a little long. So far, it seems that many readers have enjoyed the character arc Ethan experiences in each novel and the themes that it plays into. Every novel in the series has a specific theme that the novel’s plot was built on.

The first novel has a theme of freedom in which Ethan must choose whether he’ll let the tragedies of his past control his life or if he will take control of his own life. It also contains a theme about the power of love and how that can save a person from losing themselves.

The second novel possesses a theme of “hope in the darkness” and “sacrificing for the greater good.” In this story, Ethan is deep into his mission as The Guardian, but his quest is starting to eat away his soul. He spends much of his time as a torn character, constantly having to stop himself from crossing over the line and becoming the monster he knows he can become. He keeps holding onto the light at the end of the tunnel that he believes is waiting for him on the other side of his mission.

The third novel contains a theme of legacy and the idea of acting as a beacon for others. In this book, Ethan’s actions as a vigilante have become a global sensation that has inspired many others. He must now be that beacon for others in many ways and try to keep his legacy going beyond his own life. This book culminates the entire series’ ideas about heroes and sacrifice.

Having the stories build on themes that I believe most people can somewhat relate to helps bring this somewhat supernatural story to the common reader’s level and helps the audience connect to the story. I believe this makes the books appealing to the general reader and so far it has proven true.

BBB: What other books have you written?

AH: I have had some short stories and poems published outside of this series. My other novel outside of this series is Memories Of My Future. This book is a historical/inspirational novel which actually won the 2017 Independent Press Award for Best Inspirational Work.

BBB: What are you currently working on?

AH: I actually have quite a few projects in different stages of development outside of this series. I recently signed a contract for a children’s picture book, which will be releasing next year. I also have a police novel releasing next year as well. My agent is shopping around a Young Adult novel and is also shopping around a non-fiction project of mine. I also have a graphic novel being read by some publishers. So 2018 will be very exciting God-Willingly!

Thank you so much for the interview, Stacie! I hope your readers enjoyed learning a bit about my writings as much as I enjoyed answering your questions!

Connect with Ammar Habib on Social Media:

Email: ahabibwr@yahoo.com

Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Blog
Goodreads
Newsletter

Purchase Links:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

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Author Interview: Michele Barrow-Belisle

11/17/2017

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Meet Michele Barrow-Belisle, Author of Fairy Wishes 123

BBB: Tell us about yourself.
MBB: About me….hmmm, let’s see….I’m a writer, and I’m sort of as addicted to it. Reading too. I’d be a tremendously happy girl if I could just read, write, drink lattes and eat chocolate…all day every day.

I really love chocolate, in case that wasn’t evident from the last point.

I’m a polymer clay sculptor. My favorite things to sculpt are faeries and miniature clay food.

I have lengthy conversations with imaginary people. Sometimes even arguments.

I’m a Libra. And as balanced as they come ;)

I live with my amazing husband who rides a motorcycle, my incredible son who’s also an incredible writer and a cat with a princess complex, who truly believes our entire reason for being is to see to her every whim. Which, of course, we do.

When I went to John Taylor from Duran Duran’s book signing event, I signed a copy of my book and gave it to him. Pretty cheeky, I know.

My sister-in-law Tami was the first person to read FIRE & ICE after I wrote it. She loved it, and that gave me the encouragement to move forward. And now here we are six years later, and still going strong.

I’m a teacher by nature. And teaching preschoolers is much harder and infinitely more rewarding than teaching adults. I’ve done both and I love both, but children always bring their A-game and force you to be on yours.

I once modelled for a clothing company called President Stone. For a while, there were larger-than-life posters of me plastered all over the city. The company went out of business. Totally not my fault.

I adore my life. I really do.

Uhm, let’s see what else… did I mention the chocolate?

What inspired your book, Fairy Wishes 123?
MBB: As a mom and a preschool teacher, I’ve read countless stories to young children, and I got a feel for what types of stories children loved best. I was also a little surprised at how many books geared toward young children simply didn’t measure up. They were either too long, too short, too boring or had unappealing illustrations. So, writing my own children’s book has always been in the back of my mind. And I guess I finally found a window of time and some inspiration to finally write them. The ‘Wishes Series’ was born, and I knew if had to be a rhyming book because they were the ones children requested most often, and they were the most fun to read as adults. And I knew I wanted bright colorful illustrations, to capture the imagination. Hopefully I’ve achieved both of those things.

BBB: Tell us about your main character.
MBB: The story is about two culturally and ethnically diverse little fairies who want to trade lives with each other, thinking the grass is greener on the other side. They soon discover that it’s best to just be themselves.

BBB: What other books have you written?
MBB: This is my first illustrated children’s book, which will include at least 6 more books in the Wishes series. But my debut novel was a series for teens, Fire & Ice (Faerie Song Saga). It’s a six book YA fantasy romance series, and the 4th is releasing Feb.28th 2018. It’s also currently in development for a major motion picture, which we’re all very excited about! I have one stand-alone New Adult, paranormal romance novel, Entangled Summer. And In non-fiction, I’ve also published several how-to polymer clay sculpting art books.

BBB: What do you think readers will find most appealing about your book?
MBB: I think the illustrations will capture their heart, at least I hope they will, that and the rhyming, which are my favorite types of books to read aloud to children.

BBB: Tell us about your illustrations.
MBB: I worked on the illustrations myself, beginning with sketches from photographs, adding color and then applying digital effects using a light box. I’ve always loved art ad graphic design in all its many forms and media, so that was a fun part of the process, though also the lengthiest part.

BBB: How did you come up with the idea for your book cover?
MBB: I wanted something magical, that was an invitation into an enchanted fairy world…a world reader would want to enter into.

BBB: What are you currently working on?
MBB: I actually have several projects on the go at the moment. I’m working on an illustrated guide for about the Faerie Song Saga realms, along with writing the fifth and sixth books in that series.

I’m working on illustrations for the next book in the children’s wishes series, Pirate Wishes 1-2-3.

Lastly, I’m revising a new young adult novel, Written In Red, which is a post-apocalyptic dystopian fantasy. Here’s the premise: In a post-apocalyptic world governed by Witches, 17-year-old girls must compete in the Culling Ritual where those with magic triumph and those without are enslaved. But for Freedom Bliss Matthews, being released from an asylum on the eve of the Ritual might mean trading one prison for another.

BBB: How can readers discover more about you and your work?

MBB: Readers can find my books through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indigo/Chapters Books, as well as most book retailers globally.

You can find me on social media here: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and via my website.

The very best way to stay connected is by signing up for my mailing list, where I send out updates about news, book releases and any book-to-movie developments.

Thanks so much for the opportunity to visit. I’m always up for a chat, so please feel free to reach out anytime! 😊

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Magelica's Voyage to the Land of the Fairies Blog Tour Kick-Off & Giveaway

6/12/2017

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BeachBoundBooks is pleased to be coordinating a Blog Tour for the enchanting children's book written by Louise Courey Nadeau, Magelica's Voyage to the Land of the Fairies. The tour will run from June 12 - June 30, 2017.

About the Book

Title: Magelica's Voyage to the Land of the Fairies
Author: Louise Courey Nadeau
Illustrator: Nathan Heinze
Publication Date: April 2017
Publisher: Magelica Inc.
Number of Pages: 35
Recommended Ages: 5 to 10
Summary: Five Star Readers Favourite and Story Monster approved! New Magelica's Voyage to the Land of the Fairies is finally out! Its the third children's book in the Magelica trilogy. Put on your magical necklace and join Magelica and her friends as they discover that fairies are real and that love is the most powerful magic of all!In this very special adventure, rainbows light up the sky as Magelica and Prince Will embark on an extraordinary voyage to uncover the mystery of her past. Empowered on her quest by her chosen mother, Magelica and her friends follow the secret scroll to the Land of the Fairies. As they make their way through the forest, fear gets in the way and their courage is tested.

FREE Download!

Take a peek inside...

Other books in the series...

Title: Magelica's Voyage
Author: Louise Courey Nadeau
Publication Date: June 1, 2013
Publisher: Magelica Inc.
Number of Pages: 48
Recommended Ages: 5 to 10
Summary: Who ever heard of a girl being hatched from an egg the colour of sapphires? Magelica doesn't know where she came from or who she really is. But when she's transported to the Isle of Dreams in a flying bathtub, she launches into an adventure of discovery, and learns that wonderful things can happen when she uses her imagination, believes, opens her heart and trusts in love. Come fly with her and discover for yourself the power of imagination, gratitude, believing in yourself, and love! In this special first voyage, fantasy, adventure, magical illustrations, empowering messages, and a wonderful cast of enchanting characters come together as Magelica takes young girls and the special people in their lives on a fun, inspiring voyage about making your life magical.

* Available in English / French / Spanish *
Amazon | Goodreads

Title: The Rescue (Magelica's Voyage Book 2)
Author: Louise Courey Nadeau
Publication Date: May 27, 2015
Publisher: Magelica Inc.
Number of Pages: 48
Recommended Ages: 5 to 10
Summary: When Magelica dreams of the prince lost on a deserted island, she realizes that it could lead to his rescue. She returns to the Isle of Dreams to tell Queen Raya what she knows. Can they save Prince Will before it's too late? Will the power of laughter and love be enough?

* Available in English / French / Spanish *
Amazon | Goodreads

About the Author

Louise Courey Nadeau, born and raised in Montreal, Canada, wife and mother to two girls and two boys is the creator and author of Magelica’s Voyage, Magelica’s Voyage: The Rescue and Magelica’s Voyage to the Land of the Fairies; an adventure/fantasy trilogy about a young girl on Earth who suddenly grows wings at the age of 12 and sets out on a voyage to discover who she is and where she comes from. Empowered by her Chosen Mother to follow her heart, Magelica and her fun and wacky friends learn that following your dreams is no easy task! Called upon to connect peoples and worlds, and bring balance and harmony, Magelica discovers that the greatest enemy is fear, but realizes that it is no match for courage, believing in herself, and love, the most powerful magic of all.

Author, mother, wife, Founder and CEO of Magelica Inc., former marketing and advertising executive, a tireless fundraiser for many charities, a painter, and gardener, Louise’s passions keep growing. Louise's dream is to create a bond with children and their caregivers around the globe, and make a real difference by entertaining them with exciting stories that stimulate their imagination, and help them discover the power of their own magic. Books are just the beginning. She is simply getting started!

"Through life's trials and tribulations, I always believed I could. With the Magelica book series, my own beliefs, courage, determination and resolve have been tested over and over. Believing I can, has kept me going! My goal is for young girls to be empowered to grow up strong, positive and powerful, and for young boys to have the self-confidence to support girls in their goals, thereby creating a new gender balance for a new generation. "The children of today, will grow up to be the parents of tomorrow. By inspiring them now, the ripple effect will eventually change the world."

"Magelica's Voyage is inspired by my life, my family, and the special people and places I love", says Courey Nadeau. "All of the characters in the story, including Magelica are reflections of the person I am- the wacky part, the funny part, the philosopher, the teacher, the caretaker, the chosen mom, the giver, and of course the dreamer. What would Magelica do, I often ask, and I get the answer. When you fly with Magelica, the possibilities are endless and there is magic all around."

To learn more about Louise Courey Nadeau please visit Magelica's Voyage website at Magelica.com. You can also follow Magelica on FB, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. Magelica books and necklaces are available on amazon.com and at selected retailers.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Blog Tour Giveaway

Prize: One winner will receive a Magelica Prize Pack which includes all three books in the series and Magelica's necklace (pictured above).
Giveaway ends: June 30, 11:59 pm, 2017
Open to: Internationally. How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Louise Courey Nadeau and is hosted and managed by Stacie from BeachBoundBooks. If you have any additional questions feel free to send an email to stacie@BeachBoundBooks. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule

Blog Tour Kick-Off
June 12
BeachBoundBooks

June 12
Domestic Chanteuse (Promo)

June 13
A Wildflower Mom (Review)
Maude’s Web (Review)

June 14
Java John Z’s (Promo)
K & A Children’s Book Reviews (Promo)
The Blended Blog (Review)

June 15
Grab the Book! (Review)
Nothing But Books (Promo)

June 17
Oh My Bookness (Review)

June 19
Amanda’s Books and More (Review)

June 21
Kay LaLone I Love Books (Review)

June 25
Word Magic: All About Books (Review)
Adalinc to Life (Review)

June 26
Mel’s Shelves (Promo)

June 28
Stitch Says (Review)
Bookworm for Kids (Review)

June 29
Bound 4 Escape (Review)

June 30
Romance Authors that Rock (Review)
Teatime and Books (Review)

Blog Tour Wrap-Up
BeachBoundBooks

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Author Interview: Shavonda Robinson

5/26/2017

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Meet Shavonda Robinson, Author of Thy Paintbrush to Abstracting Images

BBB: Tell us about yourself.

SR: I am mother of two beautiful kids, I am an award winning songwriter/poet, I am an upcoming author who has two books coming out, I created my own online poetry magazine for all poets, and I currently reside in Nashville, TN.

BBB: What inspired your book, Thy Paintbrush to Abstracting Images?

SR: I love to inspire and teach others through poetry.

BBB: What other books have you written?

SR: Thy Paintbrush to Abstracting Images is my first published book.

BBB: What do you think readers will find most appealing about your book?

SR: The cover, title, and different messages throughout the book.

BBB: How did you come up with the idea for your book cover?

SR: My vision tied into my writing and title naturally from there I knew it had to be abstract.

Thy Paintbrush to Abstracting Images is available on Amazon.

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Author Interview: Stephanie Baruffi

5/24/2017

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Meet Stephanie Baruffi, Author of Clarence

BBB: Tell us about yourself

SB: I am a wife and mom of three boys. I live in New Jersey, but I work in Philadelphia, PA as an Early Literacy Specialist. I have my Masters Degree in Reading and I taught many grades ranging from 1st to college!

Literacy is my passion. I love to see the faces of children as they discover new learning. I love being the one who has given them another tool to put in their “literacy tool belt.” More than that, I love supporting teachers, especially in grades K-3. The art of pedagogy is something that has been in my heart since the days I lined my dolls up in rows and taught them how to spell more, than 30 years ago. I hope I can always be around a school setting until I retire to the Caribbean and become a famous author!

In my spare time, I really enjoy being with my family or relaxing. Being the only girl in my home leaves little time for pedicures and pampering, so when I get free time I love to get massages or hang out with the girls in my extended family, no matter what they are doing!

Most of the time you can catch me at basketball, baseball or soccer supporting my sons and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

BBB: Tell us about your main character.

SB: My main character, Clarence, is around age 8-9. From the cover you can tell that he is upset, which has led many of my readers wondering why. In the story he feels different; different from his loud, Italian family and different from his peers at school. He is bullied because of his big ears. Clarence struggles with feeling accepted and doesn’t know how to handle being different. He wants so desperately to be a part of something big and with the help of his Nonna he discovers that he is beautifully and wonderfully made.

My grandfather, Clarence, who died in 2012, inspired this character. Both have a big, beautiful set of ears! I wrote this book in memory of him.

BBB: What do you think your readers will find most appealing about your book, Clarence?

SB: I have been able to marry two very important topics into this book: the Italian culture and bullying. I found that my culture is not represented in many children’s books so it was essential to tell this story highlighting some important parts of my heritage, such as food, family, and faith. Being an educator, I also know that educating students about bullying and making smart choices is very relevant so I wanted to give my readers the chance to see what good choices and bad choices look like and how that pertains to their life experiences. The dialogue and illustrations are what will initially dram in the reader, but overall the theme of this book will connect with them and leave them with a sense of empowerment and inspiration.

BBB: Tell us about your illustrations.

SB: Michela Cardelli crafted my illustrations over a period of 6 months. She lives in Pisa, Italy and I connected with her using Fiverr. She and I collaborated daily about every aspect of the illustrations and she was very mindful of what my vision was for the book, while also maintaining creative ingenuity with the design. Many of the illustrations are members of my family, so I would send her a picture and she would work her magic and bring them to life with precision and accuracy. I asked her to put a true picture of my grandparents inside the book somewhere and if you look at the book on page 14, you will see them inside of a picture frame. Seeing that made me cry!

It was a true advantage having and illustrator that lived in Italy. She added cultural aspects to the drawings that only an artist from that region would and because of that the finished product is an authentic representation and, to me, a work of art!

BBB: How can readers discover more about you and your work?

SB: Here is a list of the ways my readers can discover more about me and my work. I love to interact with them as much as possible so any chance you get, please reach out and let me know what you think of Clarence!

www.foundations.net
www.stephaniebaruffi.com
www.instagram.com/stephaniebaruffi_author

www.facebook.com/slbaruffi

www.twitter.com @slbaruffi
books2read.com/u/mgKJ16

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Author Interview: Cheryl Carpinello

4/5/2017

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Meet Cheryl Carpinello, Author of Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend, Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend, The King's Ransom, Sons of the Sphinx, and Tutaankhamen Speaks

BBB: Tell us about yourself.

CC: I’m a retired high school English teacher with a passion for ancient & medieval history. I taught the Legend of King Arthur at the high school for 25 years along with the literature of Ancient Rome & Ancient Greece.

My target audience is reluctant readers, although my readership is broader. As a teacher, I worked with a number of students who didn’t like to read, who hadn’t come across that genre that hooked them to books. Through my teaching, I discovered the key to many of those reluctant readers is through the Arthurian Legend and Medieval Times. All you need to do is look at the movies, TV shows, and video games out there. A new King Arthur movie—King Arthur: Legend of the Sword—will be released 2017. Also, Games of Thrones is a huge draw for older readers and adults.

I also love to travel. Being a retired airline employee—yes, I worked two jobs—gives us the opportunity to see more of the world than most people. So far, we spent 3 weeks in Egypt, 3 week in the UK, 1 week in Iceland, as well as numerous trips to Mexico, Hawaii, and my favorite city Las Vegas!

All of my books are now, or in the process, of being distributed by Bublish, Inc. That was the culmination of 7 years of hard work, writing and promoting my stories. For those who wonder, being a writer is not an overnight success story.

BBB: What inspired your trilogy about the Princess Guinevere?

CC: My inspiration for Book One: Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend came from my high school students. They only knew 3 things about her: she married King Arthur, she had an affair with Lancelot, and she caused the downfall of the fabled Camelot. I decided to introduce younger readers to this princess at the age of 12 and give them a more dynamic character than the static one out there.

The only reason there is a Book Two Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend is because of Guinevere’s friend Cedwyn. He is also the impetus behind the third book in the trilogy. I never planned to write another story about Guinevere after completing the first one, but kids can be persistent. Over the years when working on other projects, Cedwyn kept pestering me. He was promised he would get to be a knight and wanted to know when I was going to make that happen. I finally gave in to him.

Consequently, writing book 2 meant that I would also have to write book 3!

BBB: Tell us about your main characters.

CC: In Book 2, Guinevere is 15 years old and still a princess. King Arthur is away fighting battles in northern England. She is feisty, eager for adventure, and cares deeply for those around her. However, she tends to jump into situations without thinking thoroughly about her actions and usually finds herself in trouble. She thinks more with her heart than with her head.

Cedwyn, her childhood friend, tends to follow Guinevere’s lead if somewhat hesitant at times. He enjoys their adventures as much as she does. He is fiercely loyal to Guinevere. She has promised to take him with her as her squire when she marries King Arthur. Cedwyn’s dream is to become a knight of King Arthur’s and serve Guinevere. In “At the Dawn of Legend” the subtitle of the book is “Cedwyn’s Story.” He is granted his dream of knighthood, but in no way that he ever imagined.

BBB: What other books have you written?

CC: My Arthurian Legend books:

Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend (book 1-re-released March 2017) is the story of the Princess Guinevere at age 12 and her friend Cedwyn. https://www.amazon.com/Guinevere-Legend-Legends-Reluctant-Readers/dp/1946229415

Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend (book 2-to be released in May 2017) continues the adventures of Guinevere and Cedwyn, but it soon becomes a battle of life and death for the two.

The King’s Ransom (book 1 of Young Knights of the Round Table) 3 friends take the Knights’ vow to clear their mentor of theft and murder charges or to die trying. https://www.amazon.com/Young-Knights-Round-Table-Reluctant/dp/0997487577.

My Ancient World books:

Tutankhamen Speaks where King Tut talks from the grave to tell about his life and answer a persistently asked question. https://www.amazon.com/Tutankhamen-Speaks-Cheryl-
Carpinello-ebook/dp/B00E18KH46

Sons of the Sphinx is a time travel adventure back to 1330 BC Egypt with the ghost of King Tut https://www.amazon.com/Sons-Sphinx-Cheryl-Carpinello-ebook/dp/B00MVGC96Y.

Study Guides are available for all my books. Links to these are on my blog Carpinello’s Writing Pages.

BBB: What do you think readers will find most appealing about your book?

CC: What makes my books appealing to the Middle Grade readers/YA (ages 10-16) are not only the adventures back in history, but also the journeys of my characters to find who they are and what their place is in their world.

Also, in my stories about Guinevere and Cedwyn, readers understand how good intentions sometimes lead to not-so-good situations. They’ve been there! And, they are there when Guinevere and Cedwyn make decisions that don’t turn like they imagined. Without realizing it, reading how Guinevere and Cedwyn handle themselves in times like these helps readers when they come face-to-face with similar situations.

BBB: How can readers discover more about you and your work?

CC: Website: Cheryl Carpinello
Blog: Beyond Today Educator
The Quest Books

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Author Interview: Susan Count

2/4/2017

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Meet Susan Count, Author of Mary's Song and Selah's Sweet Dream

BBB: What inspired your book?

SC: Mary’s Song was inspired by Selah’s Sweet Dream. In Sweet Dream, Selah’s grandmother was a phenomenal equestrian and a celebrity as she rode in spite of her disability. She introduced Selah to horses, but passed away when Selah was quite young.

BBB: What other books have you written?

SC: Selah’s Sweet Dream. It’s won three First Place awards, The story of a girl who aspires to be an equestrian super star like her grandmother, Mary. And a horse with an attitude.

BBB: What do you think readers will find most appealing about your books?

SC: As a writers of children’s books – I hear from the parents! They appreciate the wholesome, encouraging aspect of the books thru heartbreaking circumstances. They tell me the stories are good for the heart and soul. They feel the aspects of faith are beautifully woven and are a natural reflection of love and family.

BBB: Tell us about your illustrations.

SC: The cover of Mary’s Song is by Ruth Sanderson. You may not know her name, but you know her work. She did the paperback covers for The Black Stallion. If you love her horse art, it is worth a trip to her web site to see her fairy princesses. They are beyond amazing.

BBB: How can readers discover more about you and your work?

SC: I’m most active on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/susancount/

Come to my website to get a free, short horse story. Sign up to read the rest of the scenes as they are posted.
http://www.susancount.com

Susan Count's books are available on Amazon.

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