I’m delighted to share my latest review, for D.G. Kaye’s new book: Fifteen First Times: Beginnings: A Collection of Indelible Firsts.
Continue reading
I’m delighted to share my latest review, for D.G. Kaye’s new book: Fifteen First Times: Beginnings: A Collection of Indelible Firsts.
Continue readingI’m delighted to share my latest reviews, for two brilliant books: Born in a Treacherous Time by Jacqui Murray and Variety is the Spice of Life – a blend of poetry and prose by Sally Cronin. I decided to start with Book 1 in Jacqui’s Dawn of Humanity series and I’m glad I did because I’ll definitely be reading the whole series. Sally’s new book was as good as her previous ones, and a delight from start to finish.
Continue readingHappy New Year everyone. Today I’d like to share my first three book reviews for the year: Transylvannia’s History A-Z: 100 Word Stories by Patricia Furstenberg, Perfectly Imperfect by Jacquie Biggar, and Tell Me A Story: in 99 Words by Annette Rochelle Aben.
Continue readingI was absolutely delighted and honoured to have Linda’s Midlife Crisis in brilliant author Jacqui Murray’s top ten list for 2022.
I love reading. I prefer to do that than watch TV, go to the gym, floss my teeth, pay bills, or wash the laundry. I review a lot of the books I read, usually received from NetGalley, the library, Kindle Unlimited, or an Indie efriend, but I also buy quite a few. I collect my writing book reviews here and my education ones here. When I read, I choose thrillers, historical fiction, education (for my other passion), and then anything else.
Here are the top ten reviews–ranked by you–for 2022 (in alphabetic order):
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Thank you so much to the amazing Sally Cronin for including Linda’s Midlife Crisis in the Smorgasbord Christmas Book Fair. It’s the best place to go if you’re looking for Christmas gifts – and you’ll find books for everyone there. Sally’s included me with two brilliant authors, M.J. Mallon and Lauren Scott.
Welcome to the Smorgasbord Christmas Book Fair with a selection of books from personally recommended authors on my bookshelf I believe will make wonderful gifts for friends, family and for you.
The first book today is the latest release by M.J. Mallon and enjoyed the collection very much. Do What You love: Fragility Of Your Flame Poems, Photography and Flash Fiction –
About the collection
Do What You Love is a personal poetry collection celebrating how the fates may have a part in all that we do.
With special poems and short reflective moments inspired by family, flowers and nature, love, scrumptious morsels, places I’ve visited, lived and intend to live in, the friendships and hopes I have for the future.
The overarching theme is to live a life well lived… And to do what you love.
One of the reviews for the collection
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I was delighted to receive a copy of Haunted Halloween House recently, a delightful Halloween tale for small children by Robbie and Michael Cheadle. Having read some of the Sir Chocolate Series by the same authors, I couldn’t wait to read this standalone Halloween story illustrated with some of Robbie’s famous fondant art. Continue reading
I’m over the moon – Desolation Bluff has received a wonderful review from the amazing poet and short story writer, Colleen Chesebro. You can read her review by clicking the link in the title above, and also check out her fabulous website. #reviews #books
It was my pleasure recently to read Have Bags, Will Travel – a delightfully funny travel memoir by D.G. Kaye that is filled with tips and advice. It’s the perfect travel book for those who enjoy shopping, always have too much luggage and look back on the way travel used to be with a sense of nostalgia.
Continue readingI was delighted to hear that Darlene Foster had written another exciting adventure in the Amanda Travels series – and this time it is set in Paris, one of my favourite cities. It’s available now for pre-order, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive an advance copy for my honest review. Continue reading
Many thanks to the wonderful Sally Cronin. Brody Cody has been featured in Smorgasbord Bookshelf – Summer Book Fair 2022. First in Series #Children’s – Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space by Toni Pike, Myrtle the Purple Turtle by Cynthia Reyes
Over the course of the next three months I will be sharing the authors who feature in the Smorgasbord Bookshelf with the books that I have reviewed and can personally recommend.
In this first part of the summer fair, I am sharing books that are the first in a series in both adult and children’s books along with one of their five star reviews. I hope that this will encourage you to enjoy the series in full. I will feature every author on the shelves by the end of the summer. I hope you will enjoy.
The first children’s book today that I can highly recommend is Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space by Toni Pike.
About the book
Brody Cody is almost eight years old and definitely, absolutely, positively does NOT want a mother. His mother died when he was a baby but life with…
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I’m so excited – Linda’s Midlife Crisis has received a wonderful review from brilliant writer Mark Bierman #reviews
I’ve been absent on the blogosphere lately, my apologies to everyone who’s posts I’ve yet to read. I promise that I will
catch up. Between starting a new job, an online course, writing, and well, everything else, time is a precious commodity.
Today I have the pleasure of reviewing, Linda’s Midlife Crisis, by Toni Pike. I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
What’s it about?
How does a fifty-year-old woman start a new life?
Meet Linda Lockwood: fifty, fat, frumpy and bullied by her horrible husband Ron and the vile students and principal at the school where she teaches English. But her life is about to undergo a total transformation.
Linda suffers a breakdown after a traumatic classroom incident, and that brings out the worst in Ron and devious principal, Wayne Forsythe. Then she is rocked to discover her husband has a shocking secret.
With…
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The paperback version of Linda’s Midlife Crisis has just been released, so you can now enjoy it in print. It’s a lighthearted, entertaining read with a sprinkling of suspense, drama, humour, and more than a touch of romance. I’ve been overwhelmed by the lovely reviews it has received, and look forward to sharing some more of those soon.
I have good news to share. Linda’s Midlife Crisis has received another fantastic review, from wonderful author Jacquie Biggar. #reviews
Jacquie Biggar-USA Today Best-selling author
Reading has always been an escape for me. As a child, books allowed me to travel to faraway countries and have great adventures I’d never dreamed of in my small-town world.
As an adult, my tastes may have changed but the concept is the same; books take me away from the real-life issues we face today. There’s so much needless violence, climate crisis issues, and starvation that it’s impossible to go a day without something horrible happening somewhere.
While reading isn’t an answer (though there are great ideas for change in the pages of books), it is a way to take a step back and ease a bit of the stress.
Here is this week’s enjoyable reads. For more info click the covers or retail links.
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I’m walking on air and very honoured to have Linda’s Midlife Crisis included in D.W. Peach’s list of May Book Reviews. As always, she has read some amazing books.
#reviews #books
I read so many great books over my break that I decided to hold a couple book reviews until June. I have soooo many great reads for you to browse.
Below are reviews for this month’s 4 and 5-star reads including a historical fiction, a thriller, three romances, a cozy mystery, a horror short story collection, a MG horror novella, a women’s lit novel, and a debut poetry anthology.
Click on the covers for Amazon global links.
*****
If you like Amy Tan, I think you’ll enjoy this beautiful, often gripping, often heart-wrenching, and tragically romantic historical fiction. The book opens toward the end of the Russian revolution and then shifts eight years into the future to an international settlement in China, another nation on the brink of communism. Lydia is sixteen, living with her Russian mother as refugees, and they’re barely scraping by.
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I’m absolutely delighted and thrilled – Linda’s Midlife Crisis has been reviewed by amazing writer D.G. Kaye.
Welcome to my Sunday Book Review. Today I’m reviewing Toni Pike’s latest release – Linda’s Midlife Crisis. I enjoy Toni’s books and this one didn’t disappoint. This womens fiction/chicklit-ish story is about a neglected housewife with an unfulfilling job who learns to take back her power. Yay for Linda!
Blurb:
How does a fifty-year-old woman start a new life?
Meet Linda Lockwood: fifty, fat, frumpy and bullied by her horrible husband Ron and the vile students and principal at the school where she teaches English. But her life is about to undergo a total transformation.
Linda suffers a breakdown after a traumatic classroom incident, and that brings out the worst in Ron and devious principal, Wayne Forsythe. Then she is rocked to discover her husband has a shocking secret.
With her own determination and the help of friends and family, she starts to turn her life around. She begins to…
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I’m thrilled once again – Linda’s Midlife Crisis has received another wonderful 5-star review, from brilliant author and blogger Robbie Cheadle.
#review #WomensFiction #author
How does a fifty-year-old woman start a new life?
Meet Linda Lockwood: fifty, fat, frumpy and bullied by her horrible husband Ron and the vile students and principal at the school where she teaches English. But her life is about to undergo a total transformation.
Linda suffers a breakdown after a traumatic classroom incident, and that brings out the worst in Ron and devious principal, Wayne Forsythe. Then she is rocked to discover her husband has a shocking secret.
With her own determination and the help of friends and family, she starts to turn her life around. She begins to succeed, but there are still some more surprises in store Linda.
A feel-good and inspirational romance for older women who love second chances and chick lit.
Despite its heavy title and topic, this book is a fairly light and entertaining read. Linda is married to…
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I have wonderful news. Linda’s Midlife Crisis has received a fabulous review from amazing writer Sally Cronin.
Delighted to share the news of Toni Pike’s latest release – Linda’s Midlife Crisis…
About the book
Meet Linda Lockwood: fifty, fat, frumpy and bullied by her horrible husband Ron and the vile students and principal at the school where she teaches English. But her life is about to undergo a total transformation.
Linda suffers a breakdown after a traumatic classroom incident, and that brings out the worst in Ron and devious principal, Wayne Forsythe. Then she is rocked to discover her husband has a shocking secret.
With her own determination and the help of friends and family, she starts to turn her life around. Her own success might be the best revenge, but life still has some more surprises for Linda.
My review for the book May 21st 2022
This is a heartwarming read that shares the journey of Linda Lockwood as she suffers bullies in and out of…
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I have more good news to share – a wonderful review for Desolation Bluff, from eminent Vine Voice reviewer and author Jacqui Murray.
#reviews #books #thrillers
I can’t wait to share these Indie books with you. I just know you’ll love them as much as I did:
–a note about my reviews: I only review books I enjoyed. I need to be inspired to write. That’s why so many of my reviews are 4/5 or 5/5
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Thanks very much to the wonderful Sally Cronin for sharing news about my new book, Linda’s Midlife Crisis, on her wonderful Smorgasbord Blog Magazine.
#newrelease #book #womensfiction
Delighted to share the news of Toni Pike’s latest release – Linda’s Midlife Crisis…
About the book
Meet Linda Lockwood: fifty, fat, frumpy and bullied by her horrible husband Ron and the vile students and principal at the school where she teaches English. But her life is about to undergo a total transformation.
Linda suffers a breakdown after a traumatic classroom incident, and that brings out the worst in Ron and devious principal, Wayne Forsythe. Then she is rocked to discover her husband has a shocking secret.
With her own determination and the help of friends and family, she starts to turn her life around. Her own success might be the best revenge, but life still has some more surprises for Linda.
An early review for the book
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Just when I thought this week couldn’t get any better, brilliant writer, Carol Balawyder, posted a wonderful 5-star review for Linda’s Midlife Crisis.
I am used to associatingToni Pike’s writing with crime and thrillers, not this delightful modern feel-good women’s fiction and so it was a surprise for me to see it on her post.
The first part of the novel is about Linda’s marriage to Ron, a horrible man.
He was the sort of person who brought joy whenever he departed, a feeling of peace and freedom that lasted until the moment of his return.
Ron is constantly criticizing Linda, especially her weight, treats her like his servant and is often going out at night coming home smelling of alcohol. Linda stays in the marriage because she doesn’t know what else to do and likes her home when her husband is at work or playing golf. As much as Linda is the glass half full type of person Ron is eternally pessimistic.
Aside from her marriage, Linda also hates teaching…
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I’m walking on air after reading this wonderful 5-star review for Linda’s Midlife Crisis from amazing writer and Vine Voice reviewer, Jacqui Murray.
I’ve read a few of Toni Pike’s books–here’s my review of Desolation Bluff; you can read it later in May 2022 when it publishes–loved all of them. She has a way of pulling you into the life and dreams of her characters so you are cheering for their success. Her newest is Linda’s Midlife Crisis, which I grabbed. It’s about the drama and trauma of life in your middle years. You’ll see in my review, I had no complaints, no cautions, no disagreements, just lots of fun reading:
***
In Toni Pike’s Linda’s Midlife Crisis (2022), Linda Lockwood finds herself fifty years old in a job she hates–teaching in a dysfunctional High School–married to a man she no longer loves–doesn’t even like–living in a house she likes even less. She tolerates all of this by eating too much until one day, she snaps and decides to change her life. It…
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I’m over the moon to have Linda’s Midlife Crisis mentioned in a wonderful article on Second Wind Leisure Perspectives today. Many thanks to the amazing Terri Webster Shrandt, who every week produces the most stunning photography you could ever see.
Thank you so much to the amazing writer Sally Cronin for having me as a guest on Smorgasbord Blog Magazine this week. I’m talking about things I now know that I wish I had known long ago.
I am sure like me, there have been times when you have wondered what difference might have been made to your life, if your younger self had been gifted with the experience and knowledge you have accumulated over the years.
I invited several friends from the writing community to share their thoughts on this subject which I am sure you will enjoy as much as I did.
My guest today isToni Pike who writes for both children and adults and I can recommend both genres. Today Toni shares a number of areas that she feels have impacted her life and would have benefited from her experience gained over the years.
I wish I knew then what I know now! by Toni Pike
Thank you so much, Sally, for the wonderful invitation to write about things I wish I had known long ago. I always try to look forwards rather…
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I’m proud to announce the release of Linda’s Midlife Crisis, a feel-good women’s fiction book about a fifty-year-old woman who decides to turn her her life around. It’s a lighthearted, entertaining read with a sprinkling of suspense, drama, humour, and more than a touch of romance. Continue reading
Congratulations to the amazing Sally Cronin on this wonderful tribute to her work and writing. Delve into as many of these posts as you can – it’s a wonderful chance to learn more about her.
On Thursday as I did my usual rounds of social media, I discovered I was tagged in a number of posts from several authors. There was a conspiracy it seemed, and on investigation I discovered I was the target of a campaign by a group of authors intent on plastering my name across the Internet to their followers and beyond.
Unlike many campaigns of this nature…. this one was very different and delightfully so.
The eleven authors that form Story Empire honoured me with individual posts sharing my books, their reviews and some lovely comments that frankly left me blushing (and delighted of course).
I hope by this point I have responded to everyone who kindly left messages of support and apologies to anyone I have missed.. I will catch up I promise.
I love my job, which is how I regard blogging and author and book promotion. It began…
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I’m on cloud nine. Brody Cody Book 1 has been reviewed in Shower of Blessings! It’s another wonderful review for Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space, and I’m in the company of several fantastic authors reviewed in the same article.
Our neighbor girl on the right of our house and the couple on the left got mild Covid, but they are recovering nicely. We wear doubled masks when going to the gym and grocery stores. I wear my mask when walking in the neighborhood even when people are not out walking. We have to be patient to get through this crazy Covid. I find more time in reading and watching music or ballet videos. I also started to submit my memoir to my writing group for feedback. Here are the book reviews part 1 for this month.
House of Sorrow
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House of Sorrow by Joan Hall is about an elderly widow, Ruth, who lives alone in a Victorian mansion. She lives on the first floor to avoid getting up and down the stairs. Her nephew has suggested to her to move into a care facility, but she ignores him…
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I’m so thrilled to be included today in Smorgasbord Bookshelf’s Meet the Authors, alongside amazing authors Frank Prem and Jessica Norrie. Thank you so much to Sally Cronin for sharing her review of Desolation Bluff.
In this first feature for the Smorgasbord Bookshelf I am sharing authors whose books I have read and can personally recommend along with one of my reviews for their books.
The first recommended author today is Fran Prem whose poetry reveals the hidden, the beautiful and the tragedy behind locked doors, loving relationships, childhood, wildfires and the First World War.
Meet Frank Prem
Frank Prem has been a storytelling poet since his teenage years. He has been a psychiatric nurse through all of his professional career, which now exceeds forty years.
He has been published in magazines, online zines and anthologies in Australia, and in a number of other countries, and has both performed and recorded his work as spoken word.
He lives with his wife in the beautiful township of Beechworth in North East Victoria, Australia.
A selection of books by Frank Prem
My review for Sheep On The…
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In late November 2021, I tripped over in the street and broke my olecranon, the bone at the pointy tip of the elbow. In my previous article I talked about the surgery a couple of days later to have a plate, screws and wire inserted, and my overnight stay in the hospital. In this article I’d like to talk about my return home and problems faced in the first couple of weeks after surgery. I hope this might be of help to anyone else who might have a similar injury. However, in no way is this offered as any sort of medical advice. You must always follow the advice of your own doctor and other medical professionals. Continue reading
2021 came to an unpleasant end for me when I tripped over a paving stone in the street and fractured my elbow. I had to have surgery and would be at least six weeks with my right arm in a sling and my arm not to be used at all. I thought I would write about my experience to help those who might have a similar injury. This is part one, about the accident and the surgery.
I’m thrilled and delighted to share a very special review for Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space, Book One in the Brody Cody Series. The reviewer is the wonderful Sally Cronin, from Smorgasbord Blog Magazine.
With Christmas in a few weeks I thought I might check out more children’s books and delighted to share my review for Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space by Toni Pike.
About the book
Brody Cody is almost eight years old and definitely, absolutely, positively does NOT want a mother. His mother died when he was a baby but life with his dad is just perfect.
Brody is horrified when his father goes away to a publishing conference and returns with a wife, Pandora Smith, who is a children’s author. His life spirals out of control as he is forced to eat healthy food, do his homework and help with some chores.
Even worse, he and his friends suspect that his new stepmother might be an alien from outer space.
My review for the book November 11th 2021
The book does begin on a sad note…
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I’m over the moon. Fantastic author Mark Bierman has written a wonderful review for DESOLATION BLUFF and featured it on his website.
You can read the original article here:
My book review this week is a five-star review for Amanda in Malta: The Sleeping Lady by Darlene Foster. This is the eighth book in the Amanda Travels series, mysteries ideal for children aged 9 – 12 years. If you’re looking for an exciting children’s adventure set in a fascinating country, then I can’t recommend this highly enough.
I’m thrilled to share with you my five-star review of Life is a Mosaic, by Sally Cronin. It is a wonderful book of syllabic poetry – touching, insightful and a delight to read. I think it would make an ideal gift for any adult – or be a good way to give yourself a treat. I’m in a Covid lockdown in Canberra at the moment, so reading this was the perfect way to cheer myself up.
I’m thrilled to be in the Smorgasbord Blogger Daily today – and in such stellar company with posts from D.G. Kate and Pete Springer.
#review #bloggers
A small selection of posts I have enjoyed over the last few days and I hope you will head over to enjoy in full… thanks Sally.
The first post is from author Toni Pikewith her five star reviews for the historical paranormal novel A Ghost and His Gold by Roberta Eaton Cheadle (Robbie).
I’m delighted to share with you my five-star review of A Ghost and His Gold, by Roberta Eaton Cheadle. It is a dramatic historical paranormal story set in South Africa, and if you love history then I can’t recommend this highly enough.
Roberta Eaton Cheadle is a South African author with a keen interest in history. She wrote her novel, A Ghost and His Gold, with the intention of sharing some of the history of the Second Anglo Boer War and the impact it had on the various people of South Africa. The historical…
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I’m delighted to share with you my five-star review of A Ghost and His Gold, by Roberta Eaton Cheadle. It is a dramatic historical paranormal story set in South Africa, and if you love history then I can’t recommend this highly enough.
I was thrilled to be mentioned in Darlene Foster’s amazing mid-year book tag. She wrote a lovely review for Brody Cody and the Haunted Vacation House – what a great honour.
#children #reading
The year is more than half over so it might be a good time to see what we’ve read so far. I read about this book tag on There’s Something About KM’s blog
https://theressomethingaboutkm.com/blog/mid-year-freak-out-book-tag-2021/
I thought it would be fun to join in.
The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
My review: “A wonderful story told from the point of view of a stiff, emotionally repressed English butler whose only goal in life was to provide perfect service to his employer. Even though his employer was a man of dubious character and misplaced allegiances. The author does a superb job of depicting a man devoted totally to his job, at the cost of friendship and romance. This is writing at its finest.”
The Family Wayby Laura…
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I’m so delighted to be in Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore today alongside two wonderful authors, Geoff Le Pard and Vashti Quiroz-Vega.
Over the summer I will be updating author’s details in the Cafe and Bookstore and also sharing their bios, books and recent reviews with you in this series…
Meet Geoff Le Pard
I have been writing creatively since 2006 when at a summer school with my family I wrote a short radio play. That led to a novel, some more courses, more novels, each better than the last until I took an MA at Sheffield Hallam. I published my first novel in 2014 – Dead Flies and Sherry Trifle. In 2015 a second followed – My Father and Other Liars. In 2016 I have an anthology of short stories out, Life, in a Grain of Sand. I have now added ‘memoir’ to my list of genres with the launch of Apprenticed To My Mother. Other novels can be found here. I write in a range of genres so there is…
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Thanks so much to the wonderful Sally Cronin for sharing an excerpt from Dead Dry Heart – a psychological thriller.
It’s part of the “share an excerpt” series in the Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore.
We put a great deal of effort into promoting our new, recent and upcoming books but often our previous releases get sidelined.
In this latest series I am offering authors in theCafe and Bookstorea chance to promote an earlier book (not your most recent) by sharing an excerpt from the book of 500 words. At the end of the post you can find out how to participate.
Today Toni Pike is sharing an excerpt from her psychological thriller Dead Dry Heart
About the book
“A suspense thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat!”
Tyler Thompson is Australia’s young, brilliant and charismatic Prime Minister, riding high on a wave of popularity. But the past has come back to haunt him and there is a shocking secret from his childhood that he will do almost anything to conceal.
The one man who knows what happened twenty-five…
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This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
How do you show your love to someone? Most people convey their warmth, tenderness, kindness and support by the way they speak and act towards the other person.
But have you ever thought of showing love to yourself? Continue reading
Amazing writer Sally Cronin, from Smorgasbord Blog Magazine, has generously shared an extract from Brody Cody Book 1 on her blog today. It’s part of her Children’s Reading Room, which is a great place to find books for children.
We put a great deal of effort into promoting our new, recent and upcoming books but often our previous releases get sidelined.
In this latest series I am offering authors in the Cafe and Bookstore and the Children’s Reading Room a chance to promote an earlier book (not your most recent) by sharing an excerpt from the book of up to 500 words. At the end of the post you can find out how to participate.
Today an excerpt from Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space by Toni Pike.
About the book
Brody Cody is almost eight years old and definitely, absolutely, positively does NOT want a mother. His mother died when he was a baby but life with his dad is just perfect.
Brody is horrified when his father goes away to a publishing conference and returns with a wife, Pandora Smith, who is a children’s author…
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The wonderful Sally Cronin has generously shared D.G. Kaye’s review of Brody Cody and The Haunted Vacation House in the Smorgasbord Children’s Reading Room. Congratulations also to Bette A. Stevens for the fabulous review of The Amazing Matilda.
Welcome to the Children’s Reading room with books for children up to the age of twelve years old.
The first author is Toni Pike who is receiving great reviews for her recent release .Brody Cody and the Haunted Vacation House (Brody Cody Series Book Two)
About the book
Brody Cody loves his new stepmother but is surprised to hear that she is expecting a baby. To celebrate, his parents take Brody and his friends away for a week to a very spooky house in the Blue Mountains, owned by the elderly and even spookier Mr Sludge.
Very strange things start to happen, and the friends soon become convinced that the house is haunted. They love scary stories and know all about ghosts, but will they be able to solve the mystery?
A hilarious adventure for children aged 6-9.
It would be best to read the series in order. Book…
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Congratulations to amazing poet Sue Vincent who has a wonderful new release called Midnight Haiku: A Year in Contemplation.
I’m so excited and honoured to have a wonderful review from D.G. Kaye for BRODY CODY AND THE HAUNTED VACATION HOUSE – Book 2 in the Brody Cody Series for children aged 6-9. It is such a privilege to be included in her Sunday Book Review series.
Source: Sunday Book Review – Brody Cody and the Haunted House, #Children’s by Toni Pike
I’m absolutely delighted to let you know that wonderful writer D. W. Peach has read and reviewed Brody Cody and the Haunted Vacation House – Book 2 in the Brody Cody Series. Even better, this includes a review from her gorgeous grandson.
March is almost here! Time to plan some reading for spring (or autumn)!
February book reviews include my4 and 5 star reads of fantasy, a paranormal western, a psychological thriller, a western contemporary romance, and a spooky kid’s book. ! I hope you enjoy the browse.
Click on the covers for Amazon global links.
*****
I’m a total sucker for beautiful, lyrical writing, and this book is loaded with it. I was underlining the paperback like a mad woman. The story is based on a Russian folktale, I think, but it was unfamiliar to me, so I read the story as if it were a fantasy. It definitely has the feeling of a folktale with a Russian flavor. The details are rich, rich, rich, magical and fantastical, a feast for a reader’s imagination.
The story begins when Vasya is a child and…
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Thank you so much to Sally Cronin for a wonderful post that includes Robbie Cheadle’s review of my new children’s book.
I’m over the moon. Wonderful author Robbie Cheadle has reviewed my new children’s book and posted a lovely article on Robbie’s Inspiration.
Today, I am delighted to welcome author, Toni Pike, to Robbie’s Inspiration to introduce us to the second book in her Brody Cody Series of books for children.
Thank you so much, Robbie, for inviting me to write about my new book. I’m always amazed at how you manage to combine so many creative pursuits including your writing, so it’s a real honour to be here. I found it more difficult to write during the pandemic, and that gave me a lot of sympathy for children around the world and all the difficulties they’ve experienced over the last year. I think there’s nothing more important than teaching children to become enthusiastic readers, because It helps them in every aspect of their lives.
Brody Cody and the Haunted Vacation House has just been released, and it’s the second book in the Brody Cody Series. The first book, Brody Cody…
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I’m thrilled to see Brody Cody and the Haunted Vacation House join the shelves in the Smorgasbord Children’s Reading Room. Thank you so much to Sally Cronin for the lovely post.
Delighted to share the news of the second children’s book by Toni Pike released a few days ago..Brody Cody and the Haunted Vacation House (Brody Cody Series Book Two)
About the book
Brody Cody loves his new stepmother but is surprised to hear that she is expecting a baby. To celebrate, his parents take Brody and his friends away for a week to a very spooky house in the Blue Mountains, owned by the elderly and even spookier Mr Sludge.
Very strange things start to happen, and the friends soon become convinced that the house is haunted. They love scary stories and know all about ghosts, but will they be able to solve the mystery?
A hilarious adventure for children aged 6-9.
It would be best to read the series in order. Book 1 is BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE.
One of the early reviews for…
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Wonderful writer Carol Balawyder has read and reviewed Desolation Bluff, my latest thriller.
I recently came across a post on Derek Murphy’s website titled Best Self-Publishing Companies for Indie Authors (that aren’t scams).
You can go to his website to read the entire post (which I found interesting and informative). Since this is a post about Toni Pike’s novel Desolation Bluff I want to draw your attention to a section of Derek Murphy’s post that I find fits perfectly with Toni Pike’s novel.
When you put your book cover, your hook, tagline or teaser in front of the right readership, they understand it’s the kind of book they enjoy reading. The benefits are obvious. They click on the cover and read the blurb. Sounds good. They check out the reviews. If they trust the positive ones, they’ll consider buying it and check the price.
Cover
Blurb
Reviews
Price
COVER AND BLURB
Blind romance author Oliver Cameron uses the pen name of Fidel…
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I’m delighted to be Bette A. Stevens’ guest, talking about my new children’s book.
Bette A. Stevens, Maine Author
I’m delighted to have Toni Pike with us today. You’ll find out more about my talented author friend from Australia and get a peek into her latest children’s book. Check out this awesome teaser—Brody Cody’s second book is sure to be pleaser…
“Brody Cody loves his new stepmother but is surprised to hear that she is expecting a baby. To celebrate, his parents take Brody and his friends away for a week to a very spooky house in the Blue Mountains, owned by the elderly and even spookier Mr Sludge.” ~ Amazon blurb
Welcome back, Toni. ~Bette A. Stevens, Maine author
Thank you so much, Bette, for inviting me to your wonderful blog to talk about my new release, the second book in the Brody Cody Series. It’s called BRODY CODY AND THE HAUNTED VACATION HOUSE, another funny adventure for children aged 6-9. I…
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Thank you so much to Sally Cronin for sharing another one of my articles on her fantastic Smorgasbord Blog Magazine.
Since this series began in January 2018 there have been over 1000Posts from Your Archives where bloggers have taken the opportunity to share posts to a new audience… mine. The topics have ranged from travel, childhood, recipes, history, family and the most recent series was #PotLuck where I shared a random selection of different topics.
In this series I will be sharing posts from the last six months of 2020
It is an opportunity to showcase your writing skill to my readers and also to share on my social media. Which combined is around the 46,000 mark. If you are an author your books will be mentioned too, along with their buy links and your other social media contacts. Head over to find out how to participate: Posts from Your Archives 2021
This is the second post by author Toni Pike and is from her series about authenticity…
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BRODY CODY AND THE HAUNTED VACATION HOUSE is Book 2 in the Brody Cody Series – funny chapter books for children aged 6-9. Brody can’t help getting involved in all sorts of crazy adventures with the help of his friends, Kyle and Anastasia. Continue reading
I was thrilled to have one of the previous posts in my Personal Power series republished on the wonderful Smorgasbord Blog Magazine. Thank you so much to the amazing Sally Cronin.
Since this series began in January 2018 there have been over 1000Posts from Your Archives where bloggers have taken the opportunity to share posts to a new audience… mine. The topics have ranged from travel, childhood, recipes, history, family and the most recent series was #PotLuck where I shared a random selection of different topics.
In this series I will be sharing posts from the last six months of 2020
It is an opportunity to showcase your writing skill to my readers and also to share on my social media. Which combined is around the 46,000 mark. If you are an author your books will be mentioned too, along with their buy links and your other social media contacts. Head over to find out how to participate: Posts from Your Archives 2021
The first author and blogger to kick of the new series is Toni Pike with one…
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I’m delighted to share with you my five-star review of Sally Cronin’s new book of short stories and poems. Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet has only recently been released.
Wonderful news – Sally Cronin has just released a new book of short stories called LIFE IS LIKE A BOWL OF CHERRIES: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet.
I wasn’t sure if I would make it before Christmas, but thanks to David who pulled out all the stops as always, my new short story collection, with a sprinkling of poetry is now available.
About the collection
Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet is a collection of short stories with scattered poetry, reflecting the complexities of life, love and loss.
The stories in the collection dip into the lives of men and women who are faced with an ‘event’ that is challenging and in some cases life changing.
Even something as straightforward as grocery shopping online can be frustrating, and a DNA test produces surprise results, the past reaches out to embrace the present, and a gardening assistant is an unlikely grief counsellor. Romance is not always for the faint-hearted and you are never too old for love. Random acts of kindness have far…
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I’m thrilled to have Desolation Bluff included in this wonderful list of reviews from the amazing D.W. Peach. She has been on a huge autumn reading challenge, and I’m so excited to be in such stellar company.
My 60-book Autumn Reading Challenge speeds toward the finish line. I’ve read and reviewed 54 books!!
Ten days to read 6 more. Piece of Cake!
December’s Part I book reviews include my 4 and 5 star reads of fantasy, sci-fi, paranormal fiction, thrillers, a memoir written by a dog, poetry, and a children’s book! I hope you enjoy the browse.
Click on the covers for Amazon global links.
*****
Clearly, from the title, this is a fairy tale retelling, and though the story of Snow White is recognizable in the book, this tale has enough originality and enhancements to rise above the Disney version. No singing mice here; instead there’s a young woman named Gwen trying to survive in California at the start of the Civil War.
Like in the fairy tale, Gwen flees her evil stepmother (and…
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This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
How we self-avoid
I’ve always been happy to spend time by myself and would keep myself occupied, busily working on my many projects or tasks. In fact, I would drive myself to achieve my goals, making sure that every second of the day was accounted for. That made me feel as if I was being productive and useful.
I thought that was “spending time with myself.” But now I realise that this constant activity was actually a form of self-avoidance. Continue reading
I’m so excited to be a part of the Smorgasbord Christmas Book Fair, and included with such stellar company. Thanks so much to Sally Cronin for sharing a wonderful review of Desolation Bluff. If you’re looking for Christmas gifts, this is the place to find a great selection of books.
Welcome to the Christmas Book Fair where I will be featuring all the authors on the shelves of the Cafe and Bookstore that would make great gifts for family and friends.
The first book today is by multi-genre author Olga Nunez Miret and is a light-hearted look at reality baking show and the behind the scenes drama. I Love Your Cupcakes.
About the book
Dulce, Adelfa and Storm, the protagonists of I Love Your Cupcakes are business partners, friends and share some “interesting” family connections. All the men Dulce meets only want to talk about her cakes and she’s tired of it. Her friend Adelfa, although she’s a Chemistry Professor, can’t manage to find the recipe for the perfect relationship. And Storm, the third of the partners of their bakery/coffee shop/bookshop/art gallery and ex-fire station, is an artist who is not a master in the art of love. How…
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I’m so thrilled to be a part of the Smorgasbord Children’s Christmas Book Fair. Many thanks to the amazing Sally Cronin, who has put together a fantastic collection of Christmas gift ideas for children.
Welcome to the Children’s Christmas book fair with books for children up to the age of twelve years old. All of which would make great gifts.
The first author today is Joyce Murphy with the release of her second children’s book in time for Christmas. The Bee and The Dandelion – for ages 2 to 6 years.
About the book
Sally’s story made even the leader feel sad. And the Leader said …
“We will make a new law, all shiny and new,
To save all the bees, and you children too.”
The Bee and the Dandelion is a heart-warming, picture, rhyme book that tells the story of a Bumblebee, a little girl called Sally and a flower called a dandelion. Sally loves to pick dandelions but one day, when a Bumblebee flies onto her knee and begs her not to take his food; Sally is taught how precious flowers…
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This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
I’ve already mentioned self-validation, but I wanted to talk more about respecting our own opinions and feelings.
I realise now that for my most of my life I have been extremely reactionary. If someone said or did anything that concerned me in any way, I would immediately react and try to fix things up or do something about it. If I thought someone had a poor opinion of me for any reason, I would react and try to plead my case. Continue reading
Floriade is an annual floral display in Canberra that has been a popular attraction for over thirty years. It brings plenty of visitors to Australia’s capital city, and has always been held in beautiful Commonwealth Park, next to Lake Burley Griffin. Continue reading
I was thrilled to have a review for Brody Cody and The Stepmother From Outer Space featured in Smorgasbord Children’s Cafe and Bookstore this week. Thank you so much to the amazing Sally Cronin, who is so generous in her support for other authors. Thanks also to wonderful writer D.G. Kaye for her superb review.
This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
I was the worst control freak, always planning and organising everything I did so that every possible eventuality was taken into account. I would then worry and be anxious that it would all go according to my plan. My happiness depended on the outcome, or what people would think of me, or whether others were fulfilling their end of the bargain. Continue reading
I’m absolutely thrilled to be a guest on Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore, talking about a very important moment in my life – the great 2003 fire in Canberra.
Over the last six months of Covid times, with all the restrictions, limitations and changes to life, I have to admit that I’ve got into the habit of having too many snacks. Not surprisingly, I’ve put on a little weight and now the time has come to seriously think about losing it. Are any of you in the same position? Continue reading
I’m so thrilled to have Brody Cody and The Stepmother From Outer Space included in the amazing D.W. Peach’s August Book Reviews.
There is also exciting news as she will soon be launching her new book.
Only four this month! I’ve been slacking.
Actually, I’ve been super busy preparing for my launch and then dropping into bed at night, too tired to read.
This month, my offering of 4 and 5 star reviews includes fantasy, sci-fi, and a children’s book that my 7-year-old grandson reviewed. I hope you enjoy the browse.
Click on the covers for Amazon global links.
*****
I really, really enjoyed this book. The story starts with a “boys will be boys” rape of a very drunk teenager at a party. The main character, Ben, doesn’t participate, but he also doesn’t take strong action. This story is about his loss of innocence as he grapples with his guilt and the disheartening cultural biases, including within his own family, that force the victim into silence and give the perpetrators a break.
The story, the attitudes, and the choices of…
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I’m thrilled today to have a recent review for Brody Cody and The Stepmother From Outer Space included in the Smorgasbord Children’s Cafe and Bookstore.
This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power. Having already mentioned being your own best friend, values, standards and boundaries, I now want to talk about living an authentic life. Continue reading
I’m delighted to share with you a new 5-star review for BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE, my new funny adventure book for children aged 6-9. The wonderful D. W. Peach gave the book to her grandson, and he did a wonderful job of sharing his thoughts in the review.
You can imagine how pleased I am to receive a review from a boy the same age as my young hero. Continue reading
I’m so pleased to share with you three of my favourite reviews for THE MAGUS EPIPHANY, Book 3 in The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series. All four books in the series are now available in a Box Set, as well as individual novels. Continue reading
This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
Previously, I talked about deciding on your values. Always following and living according to those values means that you are living your truth.
A part of living your truth is having clear standards, based on your values, for how you live your life and what you are willing to accept from others. Maintaining those standards means that you can live your truth in every single aspect of your life. Continue reading
I’m delighted to share with you three of my favourite five-star reviews for THE ROCK OF MAGUS, Book 2 in The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series. All four books in the series are now also available in a Box Set, as well as individual novels. Continue reading
This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
Previously, I talked about values and living your truth – and that means living according to your own core values in every aspect of your life. This article is about standards – and next time I’ll be talking about boundaries. Continue reading
I’m thrilled to be in the Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore Meet the Authors series – and I’m in great company with authors Jacqui Murray and J. E. Pinto..
There are over 150 authors in the Cafe and Bookstore and I wanted to keep it to key pieces of information such as buying links, recent review, website and covers. However, I know that readers also like to know more about the background of authors.
In this series during June and July I will share the bios of all the authors in the cafe in a random selection. I hope that this will introduce you to the authors in more depth and encourage you to check out their books and follow them on their blog and Twitter.
Meet Jacqui Murray
Jacqui Murray is the webmaster for Worddreams, her blog about all things writing. She is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy, the Rowe-Delamagente thrillers, and the upcoming prehistoric fiction, Born in a Treacherous Time. She is…
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I was delighted to have a wonderful review of BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE included in a Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore Author Update. Many thanks to the amazing Sally Cronin for her generosity.
Welcome to the Friday edition of the Cafe and Bookstore updates, with recent reviews for authors on the shelves.
The first author with a recent review is James J. Cudney for his family drama Father Figure.
About the book
Between the fast-paced New York City, a rural Mississippi town and a charming Pennsylvania college campus filled with secrets, two young girls learn the consequences of growing up too quickly.
Abused by her mother, Amalia Graeme longs to escape her desolate hometown and fall in love. Contemplating her loss of innocence and conflicting feelings between her boyfriend and the dangerous attraction for an older man, Amalia faces life-altering tragedies.
Brianna Porter, a sassy, angst-ridden New York City teenager, yearns to find her life’s true purpose, conquer her fear of abandonment, and interpret an intimidating desire for her best friend, Shanelle. Desperate to find the father whom her mother refuses to…
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This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
You’ve probably already heard about values, the basic key principles that underpin your life. Harder to understand is the concept of your truth, and how to live by that. It took me quite a while to come to terms with what that really meant. Continue reading
I’m thrilled to share with you three five-star reviews for BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE, a funny chapter book for children aged 6-9. It’s my first children’s book, and I’ve been so delighted with the response that it has received.
This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
Have you heard the expression, “don’t give your power away,” and found it hard to find out exactly what that meant? When I finally worked it out, it was nothing short of a revelation to me. Continue reading
I’m delighted to share with you three of my favourite five-star reviews for THE MAGUS COVENANT, Book 1 in The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series. All four books in the series are now also available in a Box Set. Continue reading
This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
Some people may like to think that they don’t talk to themselves, but the truth is that we constantly communicate to ourselves using our own inner voice. How do you speak to yourself? Continue reading
I’m delighted to share with you another 5-star review for DEAD DRY HEART, a political suspense thriller, which was posted by a reader in Amazon UK. Continue reading
This is a series about authenticity, validation, self-belief and personal power.
Imagine something happens. You turn to your friend and say, “How should I feel and what should I think about that?” In a nutshell, that is what self-validation is all about. Instead of turning to someone else, try asking yourself that question. Continue reading
I’ve been very honoured by having my new children’s book reviewed by wonderful children’s writer, Robbie Cheadle.
Brody Cody is almost eight years old and definitely, absolutely, positively does NOT want a mother. His mother died when he was a baby but life with his dad is just perfect.
Brody is horrified when his father goes away to a publishing conference and returns with a wife, Pandora Smith, who is a children’s author. His life spirals out of control as he is forced to eat healthy food, do his homework and help with some chores.
Even worse, he and his friends suspect that his new stepmother might be an alien from outer space.
A hilarious adventure for children aged 6-9.
This book is a hilarious and fun read for young readers aged 7 to 13 years old. It is quite reminiscent, with its quirky and slightly dark humour, of Roald Dahl’s books, in particular, it reminded me a bit of James and…
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Thank you so much to amazing author, Bette Stevens, for featuring me and my new children’s book on her website today.
Bette A. Stevens, Maine Author
Multi-genre author Toni Pike popped by today to tell us a bit about herself and introduce her first children’s book—Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space. I have no doubt that it will be the first of a series of beloved chapter books for young readers. ~Bette A. Stevens
Toni Pike, multi-genre author
I’m the author of several fast-moving thrillers: DESOLATION BLUFF, DEAD DRY HEART and The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series. I’ve also written two non-fiction books: THE ONE WAY DIET, a guide to losing weight, and HAPPY TRAVELS 101, a short book of travel tips.
I live in Canberra, the capital of Australia, and firmly believe that coffee and long walks are an essential part of any day. Travelling is one of my main passions – but not at the moment! And I love spending time with family and…
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Thank you so much to the amazing Sally Cronin, for sharing D.G. Kaye’s review of my new children’s book, Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space.
Welcome to the first of the author updates this week where I share recent reviews for the authors on the shelves.
The first author is Toni Pike for her children’s book Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space.
About the book
Brody Cody is almost eight years old and definitely, absolutely, positively does NOT want a mother. His mother died when he was a baby but life with his dad is just perfect.
Brody is horrified when his father goes away to a publishing conference and returns with a wife, Pandora Smith, who is a children’s author. His life spirals out of control as he is forced to eat healthy food, do his homework and help with some chores.
Even worse, he and his friends suspect that his new stepmother might be an alien from outer space.
One of the recent reviews for the book on Goodreads
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I have good news to share. BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE, my latest release, has received a five-star review on Readers’ Favorite. Continue reading
The wonderful D.G. Kaye has reviewed my new children’s book, Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space, in her Sunday Book Review.
Sunday Book Review, featuring Toni Pike’s #Children’s book – Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space
Source: Sunday Book Review – Brody Cody and the Stepmother from Outer Space by Toni Pike – #Children’sbook
Thank you so much to the amazing Sally Cronin for inviting me to share an extract from THE MAGUS COVENANT – Book 1 in The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series. The “Share an Extract” series is in Sally’s Café and Bookstore – which has a wonderful collection of authors and their books in every conceivable genre. I’m so blessed to be a part of it.
Welcome to the Cafe and Bookstore New Series 2020 – Share an Extract with an opportunity to show one of your earlier books some love and attention by sharing an extract.. Check out the above link for all the details.
Toni Pike shares an extract from The Magus Covenant – Book 1 in The Jotham Fletcher Mystery Thriller Series – (The 4 books are available separately or as a Box Set).
About the book
THE WORLD AS WE KNOW IT IS IN PERIL – UNLESS ONE MAN CAN UNCOVER THE TRUTH…
A long-forgotten sect, a deadly brotherhood, a billionaire who trades in relics and a race across Europe in pursuit of a killer.
Jotham Fletcher is in Rome to give a lecture about Simon Magus at the church where he fell to his death beside the Roman Forum. Magus was a cult leader mentioned in the Bible and his libertine…
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Lucinda E. Clarke talks about her amazing achievement during the lockdown – writing her new book, which is now out. Read all about it here – and remember to grab a copy when you finish.
Yes, I’m ashamed since once I begin a project, I’m like a dog with a bone and I don’t let go.
For example, in 1984, when I wrote my first radio script, I had a broadcast time to deliver, and I made it – just. Since then, I’ve never missed one.
During this lockdown, I made my own deadline for getting the next book written and launched. I’ve made it, though it was hard. Like many of us, I just wanted to binge on Netflix and chomp chocolate.
But I set a goal of 3,000 words a day and stuck to it.
Now, in my bumbling fashion, I’m trying to get the word out.
So, why do I feel guilty?
I have not blogged for ages. I’ve promised to write about my travels to Australia and India and I have all the stuff to hand, but I’ve yet to find…
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BRODY CODY AND THE STEPMOTHER FROM OUTER SPACE is now also out in paperback, so readers have the choice of meeting young Brody Cody in print or in an eBook. He would love to meet you. In the first book of this new series, Brody thinks an alien invasion might be about to start in his own home – just as his life starts to spiral out of control. He can’t help getting involved in all sorts of crazy adventures with the help of his friends, Kyle and Anastasia. Continue reading
Thank you so much to Sally Cronin for generously sharing the latest 5-Star review for The Magus Covenant.
Welcome to the first of the cafe and bookstore updates this week, with recent reviews for authors on the shelves..
The first author is Frank Prem with a review for his poetry collection – Walk away silver heart: Poetry inspired by the Amy Lowell poem ‘Madonna of the Evening Flowers’ (A Love Poetry Trilogy Book 1)
About the collection
All day long I have been working
Now I am tired.
I call: “Where are you?”
But there is only the oak tree rustling in the wind . . .
from Madonna of the Evening Flowers
Drawing on the phrasing of the early 20th Century Amy Lowell poem Madonna of the Evening Flowers (above) Frank Prem has produced a collection of personal and interpersonal love poems written, as always, in the unique style that allows every reader to relate.
Prem’s interpretations breathe new life into contemporary love poetry and…
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