Blog Archives

Little Lamb in Amsterdam by Joshua & Donna Wilson Review

6/30/2015

About the Book App

Title: Little Lamb in Amsterdam
Author: Joshua & Donna Wilson
Genre: Children's Book App
Synopsis: Come explore the Netherlands with Little Lamb, on her bike journey, across the country. You will ride past must-see attractions, discover Dutch art, culture, food and learn many Interesting and educational facts along the way!

My Review

Little Lamb in Amsterdam is a highly engaging interactive book app that takes children on a guided tour through the Netherlands where they will experience the sights and sounds of this amazing country.

Little Lamb lives with her family on a farm in the Netherlands. One day she decides she'd love to explore other parts of this country she calls home. Little Lamb sets out on a bike ride across the Netherlands taking in all her wonderful country has to offer.

This educational app which has dual language (Dutch & English) capability allows readers to discover additional facts by simply touching the screen. The adorable Little Lamb rides her bike across the screen popping up in the next exciting location, easily capturing the attention of little readers and making learning fun.

I highly recommend downloading Little Lamb in Amsterdam. Available on iTunes and Android.

Book Video

0 Comments

If You Were Me And Lived In... China by Carole P. Roman Book Review Giveaway

6/30/2015

0 Comments

About the Book

Title: If You Were Me And Lived In...China
Author: Carole P. Roman
Illustrator: Kelsea Wierenga
Genre: Children's Geography Book
Number of Pages: 30
Synopsis: Carole P. Roman's award winning series has traveling again and this time it's to East Asia to visit the People's Republic of China. In this book, younger readers can learn about the wide variety of climate when they read about China's vast size. They will begin their journey in China's ancient capital, Beijing, where they will discover the Imperial Palace of the Forbidden City. Different regions of cuisine are discussed, highlighting the variety of styles and spices of food. Currency, sports, exciting tourist attractions, and a lovely description of the New Year Festivities are included in this introduction the beautiful land of China. Embraced by educators, parents, and children, the series gently and respectfully introduces the subjects of cultures and customs around the world. On "If You Were Me and Lived in...South Korea": "Roman has proven her skill at writing children's books with her Captain No Beard series, as well as with the other volumes in her cultural series. If you were me and lived in ...South Korea uses a technique of speaking directly to the child reading or listening, similar to Laura Numeroff's If You Give a...series. This strategy is well suited to a book about foreign cultures as it gives little imaginations a boost by helping children envision themselves growing up with customs and traditions different from the ones they're familiar with..." Peter Dabbene ForeWord Reviews Clarion Review On "If You Were Me and Lived in...France": "It is the simplistic and positive way that Roman,a former social studies teacher, delivers the text, that makes this series appealing-the books are short and to the point and just what you want when you're introducing geography and culture to the youngest reading set." Bianca Schulz-The Children's Book review. "It is vital vital that we continue to embrace culture and learn about the history of our world neighbors. Carole P. Roman has developed a series of cultural books designed to help parents and educator take the first steps in engaging our children in a fun way of embracing other cultures." Storytellers Campfire.

My Review

If You Were Me And Lived In...China is an educational journey through China which teaches young readers about the country's traditions, landmarks, and history.

Written in simple text, this well thought-out story engages readers through colorful pictures and fun Chinese words and phrases. A few things children will enjoy learning about are the Chinese New Year celebration which lasts for 15 days and the different types of foods eaten throughout the country depending on the region you live. Children might also be surprised to learn that China did not allow foreign visitors until the 1970's.

Some of things I was most intrigued by were the Forbidden City with its 4000 rooms and hidden chambers. I also didn't realized that it was the game of table tennis that opened the door for the United States and China to form a relationship. The glossary of Chinese words also helps to instill further learning.

If You Were Me And Lived In...China is a wonderful book which introduces children to a different culture in a captivating and creative way. I highly recommend picking up a copy.

Book Pack Giveaway
~ US Only ~

a Rafflecopter giveaway

0 Comments

Lionel Goes To Camp by Paul Hewlett Book Review

6/29/2015

1 Comment

About the Book

Title: Lionel's Grand Adventure: Lionel Goes To Camp
Author: Paul Hewlett
Genre: Children's Fantasy
Number of Pages: 97
Synopsis: Lionel is dying to go to summer camp to try to learn more about his dad. But did his mom even sign him up, or is the joke on him waiting for a letter that will never come? Lionel has never met his dad, and his mom never talks about him, but Lionel’s magical Three-Toed-Potbellied Walbaun foot has him convinced the answers are at Camp Bonine.

My Review

Lionel Goes To Camp is an exciting adventure where readers join Lionel at his first summer camp, enjoy more Three-Toed-Potbellied Walbaun magic gone awry, and experience a whole lot of fun.

Lionel just has to go to Camp Bonine this summer and he hopes all his begging and pleading has convinced his mom to send him. After a wish made to the Walbaun reveals more clues about his dad, Lionel is certain camp will bring him closer to finding out the truth. But, when Lionel learns Tad Winters is his bunk mate he knows it will take more than just the magical Three-Toed-Potbellied Walbaun to survive.

Creative and well written readers will delight in Lionel's latest grand adventure. The crazy wishes granted by the Walbaun foot are hilariously mixed up, but somehow always end up working out for Lionel. His wishes lead him to clues about his dad and help him defeat a back stabbing bully, but it's his resourcefulness, honesty, and ability to be a good friend that help Lionel achieve the highest honor a camper can achieve. Lionel Goes To Camp is an all around great read.

I highly recommend picking up a copy. Available on Amazon.

1 Comment

Pointe of Breaking by Amy Daws & Sarah J. Pepper Cover Reveal

6/29/2015

0 Comments

Amy Daws and Sarah J. Pepper have teamed up to bring you a new adult contemporary romance collaboration! Meet ivy league socialite, Leo Richards, and struggling ballerina sensation, Adeline Parker, in this angsty, emotional page-turner. Coming JULY 14!

POINTE Getting screwed over backstage by my married-ex tears my heart into a million tiny pieces. Sitting in the audience at the ballet with my former fling wasn’t my idea of fun.

I live in my pointe shoes, not even my ex can taint my love for ballet. I hate the ballet. This on again/off again crap was getting old. And then my whole world changes when I notice the smoldering gaze… Then I look to the stage, and I can’t take my eyes off…

OF... Leo Richards. Adeline Parker. Concentrating on anything except his sexy…everything, is impossible. Her presence commands my attention…I’ve never experienced this before.

He makes me second-guess everything I’ve ever dreamed about. She makes me question everything I’ve ever known.

Fighting him is a strategic sport—no clothes allowed. All I can think about are her sexy ballerina legs wrapped around me—tutu definitely on.

BREAKING Our scandalous rendezvous is plastered all over NYC’s tabloids. Because of my status in Manhattan, now I’ve dragged her into the limelight.

My ex will stop at nothing to tear us apart. Seriously powerful people forbid me to be with her.

Rumors about his past keep building. I can’t tell her this secret.

When it came to Leo, I only knew the big things. When it came to Adeline, I knew nothing about the little things.But uncovering those things about him [her] may push us past our breaking point.

*An in-depth interview on collaborating for a novel with Amy Daws and Sarah J. Pepper*

How did the two of you meet? Sarah: At Barnes and Noble of course! Kinda cliché, I know but where else would two coffee addicts/book nerds go? Amy: Yep. Good ‘ol B&N. Sarah and I live in the same town and I was in the process of writing a memoir about my struggles through multiple miscarriages. I was in dire need of publishing help so I basically Facebook stalked her until she agreed to meet up and help me!

Would you say it was Insta-Love? Sarah: LMAO! Well, let's just say that secrets were spilled and I left crying like a baby. Amy: She was quite moved by my story. But that doesn’t take much. Pepper is a bawl baby. I would say it was definitely “insta-respect” on both sides. She was impressed that I knew as much as I did about publishing and I was impressed she’d written 12 books and knew basically EVERYTHING! It wasn’t long before we became great friends. Having another author in town to bounce ideas and frustrations off of over a cold cocktail is amaze-balls. How did the idea for a collaboration come up? Amy: It’s all Pepper’s fault! I blame her entirely. J Actually, it was just before the release of the 3^rd book in my London Lovers Series and just after the release of her Snow White Lies. I was resistant at first because I couldn’t wrap my brain around breaking away from my London Lovers. But she sent me her first chapter and dang it…I was inspired. That’s all it took. Sarah: Daws and I were at our lovely biweekly writer block session (aka drinks on some random night)(akaaka babbling about books because our husbands were so sick of hearing about this chapter or that). Anyways, earlier that day I watched the Take Me to Church ballet YouTube vid (on repeat) and fell freaking IN LOVE with the love, angst and torment. I wanted to do something a little different than my usual fantasy romances, so I pitched it to Daws... and so we fell into a world of tutus, pointe shoes and hot college boys ;-) Was the process of collaborating easier or harder than writing solo? Sarah: Oh there was a give and take. Immediately after Daws agreed to do a collaboration with me, I was like OMG! WHAT ARE WE DOING?!?! WE ARE BOTH CONTROL FREAKS (I say with the utmost respect Daws) lol so I write the first chappy and email it to Daws, secretly hoping she doesn’t scower her email like I do lol. I panicked and feared the demise of our friendship even though she hadn't written a word. Lol, so to say I got cold feet was an understatement.... I was all prepared to give her the "maybe we shouldn't do this together speech" when she sent me her follow up chappy.... I was like... Omg, this is PURE GOLD! I fell in love... it was instant. Lol, so I called Daws up and told her I was going to be a pain in the ass to work with. I am pretty sure she rolled her eyes like that wasn't a secret lol. And the rest of the book followed a similar process. Amy: It’s fun to have someone just as emotionally invested as you are in your story. So that was a positive. But overall, I’d say it’s a harder process. I’m used to an editor ripping my stuff apart, but it took a bit for me to be able to accept that from a peer. Working through creative differences was difficult. I remember telling her once when we were butting heads… “If you want this idea, you gotta sell me on it. Sell me on it and then we can do it!” That’s a lot of what our creative process was. Selling each other on our ideas. But that was exciting too! Can we expect more collaborations between the two of you? Amy: I don’t know! There’s a secondary character in our book that has peaked both of our interests. And Pepper and I live in the same town making collaborating really accessible. So who knows! Sarah: Lol I am game but that all depends on our readers :-D What can we expect from Pointe of Breaking: When Ivy League & Tutus Collide? Amy: Angst. That’s the biggest thing I’d say. It’s an emotional, rollercoaster, angsty read. But there’s some humor peppered (see what I did there?) in to breathe lightness to the story. And it’s definitely got some sexy bits to it! It’s just a really deep love story about finding someone and pushing through the barriers that make relationships hard. Sarah: Plus, we went back and forth with the chapters... so if any one chapter ends on a cliffhanger, I want you to imagine either Daws or I getting ready to affectionately strangle each other whilst thinking, "how am I going to fix this mess!" Hehe, it was FUN! What was the best part of collaborating with a friend? Amy: I feel like working together and critiquing each other’s chapters enabled this amazing quality control for both of us. Pepper pushed my writing abilities for sure. Even more than my editor has in the past. My sister beta read and she said she could see a definite improvement in my writing. So that’s exciting to take and apply into my London Lovers Series! Sarah: Knowing that Daws knows me—the real me. And since we are tight, we aren’t afraid to call each other out if we weren’t writing our best. Knowing that we each are committed to the story 100% helped a lot. Any embarrassing stories to share from working together? Sarah: Lol the sex scenes hahaha. I don't think Daws realized how dirty I got! Amy: Yes, the sex scenes were super weird at first!!! And we would talk to each other inside the word doc that we passed back and forth with comments in the margins that are definitely not fit for this interview! It was hilarious. Lastly, because I have a thing about quotes…can you tell me the favorite quote that the other person wrote? Amy: I made the comment: “Best thing you’ve written so far!” several times throughout the book. Pepper has a great lyrical quality to her writing that I envy. So there were many…but here’s just one: “I thought I was enough. The happiness that had once tingled through me like it was awakening my soul was now shredding it. Hopelessness replaced the hopeful.” Sarah: "I f**king hate the ballet.” This line, this sole comment sold me on the collaboration. It was just soooo different from the chapter I previously wrote—such a completely different standpoint. It was perfect.

Amy Daws lives in South Dakota with her husband, Kevin, and their miracle daughter, Lorelei. The long-awaited birth of Lorelei is what inspired Amy's first book, Chasing Hope, and her passion for writing. On most nights, you can find Amy and her family dancing to Strawberry Shortcake's theme song or stuffing themselves inside children's-sized playhouses because there is nothing they wouldn't do for their little miracle. For more of Amy's work, visit: www.amydawsauthor.com

5762464

Sarah J. Pepper specializes in dark, paranormal romance - think "happy ever after" but with a twisted, dark chocolate center. Real-life romance isn't only filled with hugs, kisses, bunnies, and rainbows. True-love can be more thoroughly described in times of darkness and tribulation. It's in those harsh moments where you see what a person is truly capable of - both the good and bad. Sometimes prince-charming isn't always on time, and the glass slipper is a little snug. However, it doesn't mean Charming is not Mr. Right, and who says every shoe is the perfect fit? Get a glimpse inside her head at www.sarahjpepper.com

0 Comments

14th Century Love and Havoc by Sarahi Hannah Estephani Guest Post Giveaway

6/27/2015

0 Comments

Character Insights Of 14th Century Love and Havoc

Author, Sarahi Hannah Estephani created some interesting characters in her novel, “14th Century Love and Havoc.” It is first novel of the series, “An Incarnation of Silke.” Sounds interesting, yet any story can be confusing if you do not correctly comprehend the story from the beginning.

Here is a list of important characters:

The Universal Power – The reader must define this character by whomever they have chosen in their life as their creator of the Universe. Not everyone has the same belief; therefore, their god, creator, or idol is the Universal Power.

Silke – This character is a spirit without body form, the soul of Alanna da Firenze Sarengotti.

Knodi – pronounced as “No·die” a destructive spirit of all demons. Hard to defeat, since he is strong and detrimental to the souls he competes against. It is stronger than a seven-headed dragon spewing fire. The physical being of this demon is yet to known.

Alanna da Firenze Sarengotti – the main character and the physical being of the Spirit, Silke – Alanna’s birth befalls in Florence, Duchy of Tuscany, migrates to Venice, and travels to many places. She is born with mysterious powers, which is to help Alanna conquer any demons out to destroy her.

The Litel Club of Nuisances – The leader is Concetta. Romilda, Fulvia, and Lucretia occur as her followers. Four girls that create a large amount conflict in the convent.

Loretta – Alanna’s sister also known as mia sorella grande.

Benjamin Cannes Gardesano Spagnoli – Handsome mercenary, also known as Gentle Ben.

Duca Victor Visconti – The Duke of Milan

Carianne – Alanna’s best friend

Although, there contains other characters not listed, each one represents something significant to the story. Sarahi wishes you to slip back in time and enjoy “14th Century Love and Havoc” in its entirety, a novel unlike the others: a series unlike the others.

©Copyright 2015 Sarahi Hannah Estephani

About the Book

Title: 14TH Century Love and Havoc
Author: Sarahi Hannah Estephani
Genre: Historical Romance/Erotica
Length: 422 pages
Release Date: June 5, 2015
SYNOPSIS: What happens when your life mission is to conquer the demons out to destroy you? We all must face each personal demon and defeat the creature or it gets stronger with each failure. The Spirit Silke reveals her mission in the 14th Century as Alanna da Firenze Sarengotti. She reveals how demons will put restrictions with tragedies. While Alanna life predictions are given, can her paranormal life overpower the Demon, Knodi?

Grand-Momma grabbed her head before catching her balance and then continued predicting my destiny.

“O fie— O God’s blood… thine heaven from above, saith it is naht so… O, ugh, O please heed my monition that danger do prevail to conquer litel Alanna. A demon, he be strong, thou moste seek a safe place for her at all tymes. This vile tormentor will be far worse than any seven-headed serpent dragon with hot burning flames that spews fire for breath.”

Tears continued rolling down Grand-Momma’s face.

“I do accept mia figlia’s bambino as la mia famiglia. May God bless thee with thine Hooly presence at all hours of thy days and thereafter?” Will she discover who, what, when, or how Knodi appear? Can Alanna conquer Knodi before it is too late?

Currently Available at:

14TH CENTURY LOVE AND HAVOC
AMAZON US
AMAZON UK
BARNES & NOBLE
KOBO
iBOOKS
GOOGLE BOOKS
SMASHWORDS

About the Author

Sarahi Hannah Estephani (SHE) takes pleasure in writing about reincarnation, paranormal, science fiction, historical, comedy, mystery, drama, erotica, poetry, lyrics, and journalism. As a firm believer in the spiritual world, SHE uses life experiences to share to the world with her art of writing through fiction.

In school, Sarahi’s teachers always told her that one day she would be a famous writer and an editor. Yet, SHE did not believe them. Her verbal skills showed some difficulty due to her shyness and thought it affected the ability to write. Once she had broken out of deep timidity, people began to tell Sarahi to write books because of her unique way with words.

SHE has obtained as a published and printed poet in the Novel, “Blood Rose, Blood Saga #1” by Jacquelynn Gagne. Sarahi’s “Blood Rose” Poem won the contest as the grand prizewinner. The announcement printed in the 2013 Ambrosia Arts Magazine. In addition, there are two articles written by Sarahi Hannah Estephani in the magazine as well.

Another writing, a short erotica/comedy story called, “Better Than a 69” self published on Amazon under the erotica genre. Warning, the content is very explicit.

The greatest pride and joy for Sarahi transpired into “14th Century Love and Havoc” Novel. The storyline based upon true-life regression of a former incarnated life. SHE has plans in the near future to spin-off from this novel.

BLOG ~ TWITTER ~ FACEBOOK

14th Century Love & Havoc eBook Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

0 Comments

Drama Queens Series by Kevin Klehr Guest Post & Blog Tour

6/25/2015

1 Comment

Guest Post by Kevin Klehr
DREAMING UP A GAY ANGEL

One evening a friend asked me about my writing. I talked about my surprise at how my gay angel character, Guy, seemed to win many readers’ hearts. And as the night flowed with much conversation and wine, I had an epiphany.

You see, back in the mid-80s when I moved to Sydney, I met a man who was an aspiring artist. He sold his soul to his paintbrush, determined to be as successful as the many avant-garde creatives he admired. He quickly became one of my closest friends.

He had an awkward personality, and although he was liked by those who I introduced him to, his social graces were underdeveloped. This had more to do with the fact that he was self-conscious of what he said and how he acted, and this combination brought out the parent in those he met.

He was unique. He was a guy who balanced part-time work, socialising, and art, making sure there was plenty of time for the latter, as this was his dream. So many hours were spent alone at the easel.

He shared several exhibitions with other artists, but there was one upcoming event he was really excited about – his own individual showcase in Perth. He never made this important event. He died of an asthma attack over the Easter weekend of 1990, one week before his important show.

In my novels, Guy the angel is awkward. He is self-conscious. He brings out the parent in his friends. Yet this character is loosely based on a completely different individual. When I talked about Guy after many wines the other night to a friend, I started wondering if he was really my old buddy.

My artist pal was twenty-eight when he passed away. Guy is about the same age. Both are tall. And in the second paragraph of Drama Queens with Love Scenes, my angel is described as having “a vanilla hint of gayness”. My artist friend denied it, but if he had lived…

The last time I saw him was a week before he died.

He actually said “good-bye”. It sounded so final. This was strange as whenever we parted he’d always make the point of reminding me of our next engagement, which on this occasion, was three weeks away.

I hugged him and something inside told me not to leave. That little voice was encouraging me to stay the night and get drunk with him. But it was Sunday evening and I was catching up with someone else. I always regret not listening to my gut feeling.

The character of Guy developed into his own, but I wonder whether I really just channeled my old friend. Was there a possibility that my subconscious had bled onto my keyboard? And as writers, are we simply doing this all the time without even realizing it?

About the Books

Title: The Drama Queen Series
Author: Kevin Klehr
Genre: LGBT Fiction
Book One Synopsis: Close friends Allan and Warwick are dead. They're not crazy about the idea so to help them deal with this dilemma are Samantha, a blond bombshell from the 1950s, and Guy, an insecure angel.

They are soon drawn into the world of theatre - Afterlife style, with all the bitchiness, back-stabbing and ego usually associated with the mortal world.

Allan also has a secret. He has a romantic crush on his friend, Warwick, but shortly after confiding in his new angel pal, his love interest falls for the cock-sure playwright, Pedro.

Not only does Allan have to win the heart of his companion, he also has to grapple with the faded memory of how he actually died.

Book Two Synopsis: Adam’s about to discover how much drama a mid-life crisis can be. He’s obsessed with Mannix, the nude model in his art class. But Adam has been married to Wade for nearly two decades, and they don’t have an open relationship.

Little do they know that Fabien, a warlock from the Afterlife, has secretly cast a spell of lust on Adam and his potential toy-boy.

As things begin to heat up, Adam’s guardian angel, Guy, steps in. But what’s the best way to save the relationship? Should Guy subdue Adam’s wandering passions or instigate a steamy threesome?

Currently Available at:

KEVIN KLEHR'S ABOUT.ME
KEVIN KLEHR’S WEBSITE
KEVIN KLEHR'S BOOKS ON AMAZON
KEVIN KLEHR'S BOOKS ON BARNES AND NOBLE
KEVIN KLEHR'S BOOKS ON KOBO
KEVIN KLEHR ON SMASHWORDS
iBOOKS

About the Author

Kevin lives with his long-term partner in their humble apartment (affectionately named Sabrina), in Australia’s own ‘Emerald City,’ Sydney.

From an early age Kevin had a passion for writing, jotting down stories and plays until it came time to confront puberty. After dealing with pimple creams and facial hair, Kevin didn’t pick up a pen again until he was in his thirties. His handwritten manuscript was being committed to paper when his social circumstances changed, giving him no time to write. Concerned, his partner, Warren, snuck the notebook out to a friend who in turn came back and demanded Kevin finish his novel. It wasn’t long before Kevin’s active imagination was let loose again.

Kevin’s first novel, Drama Queens with Love Scenes, has been relaunched via Wilde City Press along with the sequel, Drama Queens with Adult Themes.

Kevin is currently working on the third in the series, Drama Queens and Devilish Schemes, and a romance novella, Nathan and the New Yorker.

1 Comment

The Little Rainbow by Cassie Lloyd Blog Tour & Book Review

6/24/2015

0 Comments

About the Book

Title: The Little Rainbow
Author: Cassie Lloyd
Genre: Children's Fiction
Length: 26 pages
Release Date: May 15, 2015
Synopsis: The Earth is constantly flooding, and she isn't able to soak up all of the rain. She is terrified that she will drown. God sends the Earth a rainbow that takes away the rain and illuminates the Earth with brilliant colors. The Earth is delighted with the little rainbow and the rainbow continues to grow and become brighter and stronger every day. One day, the little rainbow disappears, and the Earth is devastated. The Earth must find the hope to survive the storm.

Currently Available at:

THE LITTLE RAINBOW
PAPERBACK
AMAZON US
AMAZON UK
KOBO
GOOGLE PLAY
BARNES & NOBLE
SMASHWORDS
iBOOKS

My Review

The Little Rainbow is a wonderfully written and magnificently illustrated story about a precious rainbow whose presence is a symbol of an unyielding promise.

After heavy rains the earth is fearful she will drown. She begins to pray and God sends a lovely little rainbow to brighten the earth. The earth is overjoyed, but one day when the rainbow disappears the earth is shattered and violent storms erupt. Will the rainbow ever return?

I absolutely love the artwork in this book. The little rainbow brings vibrant color to the dull earth and those scenes are depicted beautifully on every page. The joy and unwavering love the rainbow provides for the earth is heartwarming. This is a sweet story that is sure to become a fast favorite among both children and parents.

I highly recommend picking up a copy. Available on Amazon.

About the Author

I am a former Elementary Art teacher and an aspiring author/illustrator. I live in Glasgow, Ky with my husband of ten years, Daniel, and our three-year old daughter, Alayna.

0 Comments

Bubbles Big Stink in Frog Pond by Ben Woodard Book Review

6/23/2015

0 Comments

About the Book

Title: Bubbles: Big Stink in Frog Pond | Author: Ben Woodard | Illustrator: Fran Riddell | Publication Date: June 15, 2015 | Publisher: Miller-Martin Press | Pages: 32 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 7 Book Description: Bubbles is causing a stink. And the other frogs are not happy. They tell him to stop bubbling the water or he'll have to leave Frog Pond. But he can't help it. He's been bubbling since he was a little tadpole. Will Bubbles have to leave Frog Pond? Where will he go? And what happens when danger comes? Find out in this fun picture book about friendship and self-respect for preschoolers and all ages.

Amazon * Goodreads

About the Author: Ben Woodard

A spellbinding storyteller of high adventure, Ben Woodard has walked the Great Wall of China, hiked in Tibet, and climbed to 18,000 feet on Mt. Everest. And recently learned to surf in Hawaii. Ben is active in SCBWI and a member of a local children's writing critique group. He is a former Marketing Manager for a major corporation and ran his own marketing consulting business. He started writing children's stories in 2008 and has written picture books, middle grade and young adult. Stories of adventure and wonder. Stories that inspire and educate, and, most of all, entertain. Ben lives in Kentucky with his wife Lynda.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

My Review

Bubbles Big Stink In Frog Pond is a humorous tale about a precious little frog whose constant "bubbling" causes a really big stench.

Bubbles has a real problem with gas, so much so that his friends can't take it anymore. But, when Bubbles leaves the pond trouble threatens his friends. Will he be able to help them?

This is a funny and entertaining read that preschoolers will enjoy hearing over and over again. The bright and engaging illustrations add to the hilarity and the story of friendship and acceptance is endearing. I highly recommend picking up a copy. Available on Amazon.

0 Comments

Our Marriage Contract by Taylor M. Fletcher Virtual Book Tour

6/22/2015

0 Comments

About the Book

Book Title: Our Marriage Contract
Paperback: 68 pages
Genre: Self Help, Inspirational
Synopsis: NO JUDGES, NO LAWYERS, JUST GREAT COMMUNICATIONS...... Although titled Our Marriage Contract and written by a lawyer; I'm happy to say the book has absolutely nothing to do with the court or U.S. legal system. Instead the book actually explains and shows people how their relationship Expectations...Leads to Disappointment....Disappointments Leads to Resentment and Resentment Leads to Failure.

FROM A MALES PERSPECTIVE......In the book, I'm not writing from an expert or lawyer standpoint. Nope! I wrote the book from an average guy standpoint, who after years of darting and trying to figure why during most of my relationships I was either a hero at times or a big fat zero; even when I tried to do the right thing.

I FINALLY CRACKED THE CODE....So I think. After finally coming to grips that as crude as it may sound; relationships are just like any other of life's fragile unions and in order to be successful there needs to be rules both people must follow to make it work. Now, here's the fun part, part of putting my hypothesis or what I called "cracking the code" to the test, not only did I test and try it out on my then fiancée' and now wife but I tested it on many of my friends who are in relationships or at the early stages of one. To my surprise it worked! Seriously! I was kind of shocked because I'm no Dr. Phil or other relationship expert, I was just a guy who figured it had to be an easier way to get what I wanted out of a relationship, and now I had the answer!

Two years later, Our Marriage Contract "the book" was born and published. I am really happy with the final product because I stayed true to the books mission which was to share my personal experiences and explain in under 65 pages how people can have a great relationship, regardless if they've been in a relationship for 6 months or 6 years, all with just a simple piece of paper. In the book I think women will appreciate The Men's Quick Start Guide (page 17) and men in-turn will surely appreciate The Hostile Love Terms (page 32). In the end both people will know how to simply "ask" for what they not only need but want" in their current or next relationship and have fun doing it! Why? Because, I explain step by step how the process of "getting what you want" requires going to out to dinner along with a few other things designed to bring the couple closer in their relationship. Our Marriage Contract is currently listed on Barnes and Noble, Amazon and Kindle.

Here's one of my many Relationship Expectation examples in the book.

Valentine’s Day is coming, so I ask my wife, "Honey what do you want for Valentine's Day"? She candidly replies "nothing ", I then say "are you sure"?, She again says "I'm fine"!. Five days later Valentine Day rolls along and because I didn't get her anything "but " all the ladies in her office are receiving flowers, cards, bears, balloons and flowers...all except my wife. And even when she comes home, there's still no flowers, cards candy etc. Now my wife is extremely disappointed at me but she can't say or show it because remember I did asked her. Instead she's disappointed, now what happens if this continues for years? You guessed it, Expectations leads to Disappointment...Disappointment leads to Resentment...Resentment leads to Failure.... Don't think this can happen, well it does and in the book I explain how to avoid that situation so both people ultimately "get what they want".

Buy Links
Amazon ebook
Amazon paperback
Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Taylor M. Fletcher is the Managing Partner at The Law Offices of Kawalski, Fletcher & Kirkpatrick, P.C. Mr. Fletcher has more than ten years’ experience as a corporate law attorney, an attorney consultant, and an expert legal volunteer for various public and private non-profit organizations throughout the Tri-State area.

Social Links

Website http://ourmarriagecontract.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OMCthebook15
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ourmarriagecontract?fref=ts

Tour Hosted By

0 Comments

Frankie Dupont and the Lemon Festival Fiasco by Julie Anne Grasso Book Review

6/19/2015

1 Comment

About the Book

Title: Frankie Dupont and The Lemon Festival Fiasco | Author: Julie Anne Grasso | Illustrator: Alexander Avellino | Publication Date: March 29, 2015 | Publisher: Independent | Pages: 100 | Recommended Ages: 8 to 12 Summary: Hot off cracking his first official case, Frankie Dupont is on the scene when his new teacher takes ill. The pint-sized detective suspects a classic case of sour grapes, but the evidence leads him to the one place he wouldn’t mind avoiding for the rest of his natural life. Enderby Manor has a few more secrets up her sleeve, and as Frankie begins to unravel them, he uncovers a plot stinkier than a sardine sandwich. In Book 2 of the Frankie Dupont Mysteries, Frankie will make some new friends, upset some old ones, and of course, there will be lemon meringue pie.

Amazon * Goodreads

Haven't read Book 1 yet? Click on the cover below to grab a copy of "Frankie Dupont and the Mystery of Enderby Manor".

Book Video

Early Buzz About the Book

"This is a wonderful book 2 in the Frankie Dupont series. Just be forewarned that you will want lemon pie and lemonade after reading! The Lemon Festival Fiasco has multiple suspects and red herring clues to follow and solve while reading. Twists and turns will keep young readers engaged and thinking. This would be a perfect read for gifted education classes. Characters to love, and plenty of action! " ~ 5 Star, Carolyn W., Amazon

* FREE * Printable by Wise Owl Factory

We are pleased to share with you a FREE Educational Supplement for Frankie Dupont and the Lemon Festival Fiasco created by Carolyn Wilhelm from the Wise Owl Factory. These supplements are appropriate for grades 3 and higher and are recommended for a mystery unit and/or gifted education classes to help children develop higher level thinking skills. Please visit the Wise Owl Factory where you can download the FREE Educational Supplement for Frankie Dupont and the Lemon Festival Fiasco as well as for Julie Grasso’s other books (or click on the image below to take you there).

My Review

Frankie Dupont and the Lemon Festival Fiasco is a scrumptious mystery that easily immerses young readers as they join Frankie as he uncovers puzzling clues and poison lemons in his least favorite place of all, Enderby Manor.

Frankie can't wait to show off his dog, Sherlock, to his class, but shortly after school begins catastrophe strikes. Miss Chestnut presents Mr. Mullberry with a lemon pie, but after one bit he becomes violently ill. One whimper from Sherlock alerts Frankie to a possible poisoning. Wasting no time he rushes home and tests the pie and confirms his suspicions. Certain Miss Chestnut is to blame, Frankie rushes back to school only to find his class boarding a bus for a trip to a place he'd rather avoid, Enderby Manor. Once they arrive at Enderby Frankie, along with Kat and Amy, discover more than they bargained for. The "lemon pie poisoning" is no longer an open and shut case and Frankie must work quickly if he wants to catch the culprit.

The Lemon Festival Fiasco is the second book in the Frankie Dupont series and to the delight of myself (and I'm sure young readers) many of the eccentric, know-it-all, and hilarious characters return. Madame Mercure is one of my favorite characters. She's such a snob and appalled by all people below her class especially the "little germ incubators," otherwise known as children. I like how the story unfolds. It starts out with an attention grabbing crime which is not easily solved, compelling readers to continue on the trail of clues with Frankie until the mystery is solved.

The story is well crafted, the characters are entertaining and there are even a few fun illustrations readers will appreciate. I think this is a perfect story for 2nd and 3rd graders, although some older children will also enjoy it. Reading Book 1 is a must, as the prior case and characters are referenced often in Book 2.

I highly recommend picking up a copy of Frankie Dupont and the Lemon Festival Fiasco.

1 Comment

<<Previous

About the Book App

My Review

Book Video

About the Book

My Review

Book Pack Giveaway ~ US Only ~

About the Book

My Review

Character Insights Of 14th Century Love and Havoc

About the Book

About the Author

14th Century Love & Havoc eBook Giveaway

Guest Post by Kevin KlehrDREAMING UP A GAY ANGEL

About the Books

About the Author

About the Book

My Review

About the Author

About the Book

Amazon * Goodreads

About the Author: Ben Woodard

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Goodreads

About the Book

About the Author

Tour Hosted By

About the Book

Amazon * Goodreads

Haven't read Book 1 yet? Click on the cover below to grab a copy of "Frankie Dupont and the Mystery of Enderby Manor".

Book Video

Early Buzz About the Book

* FREE * Printable by Wise Owl Factory

My Review

Archives

Book Pack Giveaway
~ US Only ~

Guest Post by Kevin Klehr
DREAMING UP A GAY ANGEL