Blood of the Dragonfly by Hawk MacKinney

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Join us for this tour from Apr 12 to Apr 30, 2021! 

Book Details: 

Book Title:  Blood of the Dragonfly ( The Moccasin Hollow Mystery Series - Book V) Author:  Hawk MacKinney ​

Category:  Adult Fiction (18+), 227 pages Genre:  Mystery/Suspense 

Publisher:  Sage Words Publishing 

Release date:  Feb 2021 

Content Rating:  PG. There are graphic death scenes.

Book Description: While dangling a fishing hook from his flat bottom skiff before dawn, former SEAL-turned-PI Craige Ingram spots grey-black smoke coiling above the treetops across the river in the direction of the Georgia bayous and Corpsewood Manor. Bayou or bogs, fire in the uncut cypress and pines bodes a sense that the river is no barrier to the fire that threatens his ancestral home, Moccasin Hollow. Neither are the bodies later found in the burned mansion of Corpsewood Manor. Craige wastes no time in helping his ex-SEAL buddy Lt. Graysen MacGerald who is now Head of Buckingham Homicide Investigations by unofficially investigating the bodies and an exquisite dragonfly brooch found in the mansion with a reputation for evil, hauntings, and mystery.

 

Buy the Book: Amazon B&N ~ BAM ~ Book Despository

Blood of the Dragonfly by Hawk MacKinney centers around a fire that ended up taking out a bigger part of the Corpsewood Manor, along with bodies found in the burned mansion. Former Navy SEAL-turned-PI Craige Ingram along with his buddy, Head of Buckingham Homicide Investigation Lt. Graysen MacGerald is immediately on the case to find the reasoning behind the burned bodies, as well as who started the fire in the first place. Craige Ingram is the person to follow as he starts the journey of solving the crime. A lot of things are happening in this story, many twists and turns that will keep you guessing. MacKinney does a really nice job choosing characters that develop well throughout the story. Lots of ups and downs and tension flowing around. Blood of the Dragonfly is a very well written book, the first book I have read by Hawk MacKinney, and I look forward to reading more. If suspense is what you enjoy, this would be a great choice for you. A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. .

And now an interesting interview with  Author Hawk MacKinney

What advice would you give budding writers? The world is full of naysayers and can’t and no. Don’t listen. Trust yourself. Talk to the person in the mirror. Trust your feelings -AND- keep writing, keep your notes, keep your journals. Those are part of your soul. What is the last book you’ve read? The biography of Bernadine Eugénie Désirée Clary – Napoleon’s fiancée who he jilted. She later wedded French General Jean Baptiste Bernadotte. Elected to carry the crown of Sweden, the couple founded the Bernadotte Dynasty – to this day on the throne of Sweden. And naysayers say history isn’t romantic! What a saga! What made you write a romance novel? Moccasin Trace is really volume one of the Moccasin Hollow Mystery Series, but it introduces the historical founding bloodlines of the serial protagonist and supporting characters in my contemporary series, Moccasin Hollow Mysteries. Strong females! Great setting and plot and great fun! How did you come up with this idea? I wanted to lay the groundwork of how history and upbringing can influence the direction one’s life takes, the decisions and beliefs at stake, and how one holds to the core that makes us individuals. In today’s tech savvy world, most writers use a computer or laptop. Have you ever written pen to paper? All the time, especially my instant notes. Computers are great for rewrites/editing. They save tons of time, but scrambling words into sentences/paragraphs/chapters etc. etc., drags in all the notes/feelings etc. Hawk MacKinney www.hawkmackinneyauthor.com

 

Meet the Author:

Hawk MacKinney began writing mysteries for his school newspaper, served in the US Navy for over 20 years, earned two postgraduate degrees with studies in languages and history, taught postgraduate courses in the United States and Jerusalem, authored professional articles and chordate embryology texts on fetal and adult anatomy, and is well known for his works of fiction. Moccasin Trace, a historical novel, was nominated for the prestigious Michael Shaara Award for Excellence in Civil War Fiction and the Writers Notes Book Award. Both his CAIRNS OF SANCTUARIE science fiction series and the MOCCASIN HOLLOW MYSTERY series have received worldwide recognition.Connect with the Author:     website  

 

Tour Schedule:

Apr 12 – PIck a Good Book – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway Apr 13 – Splashes of Joy – book review / author interview / giveaway Apr 13 - Rockin' Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway Apr 14 – Ms. Cat's Honest World – book review / guest post / giveaway Apr 14 - Book Corner News and Reviews – book review / giveaway Apr 15 – I Read What You Write – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway Apr 16 – Books for Books – book spotlight Apr 19 – Bigreadersite – book review / giveaway Apr 20 – Bound 4 Escape – book review / giveaway Apr 21 – Sadie's Spotlight – book spotlight / giveaway Apr 22 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book spotlight / giveaway Apr 23 – Nighttime Reading Center – book review / giveaway Apr 23 - Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway Apr 26 – My Reading Journeys – book review / giveaway Apr 26 - Kam's Place - book review Apr 27 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / giveaway Apr 27 - Buried Under Books - book review / giveaway Apr 28 – Sefina Hawke's Books – book review / giveaway Apr 29 – Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway Apr 30 – Adventurous Jessy – book review / giveaway Apr 30 - BookishKelly2020 – book spotlight Apr 30 - Books Lattes & Tiaras – book spotlight / giveaway

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Let's Talk by Lisa Jacovsky

 

Let's Talk

by Lisa Jacovsky

GENRE: Picture Book

BLURB:

Harper, a seven-year-old little girl that is typically developing, loves going to the pool. One day when she gets to the pool, she meets a new friend, a little girl who is also seven years old . She has no idea that this friend is any different than her. All Harper knows is she has a new friend that wants to play in her tube with her. They both love to swim at the pool and want to play together however, Emma has little communication skills. Emma can make sounds and not words and flaps her hands when she is excited. When Harper realizes she cannot communicate with her new friend she becomes determined to find a way to. In talking to her mom, Harper is told that Emma has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Determined to not let this stand in the way of her new friendship she becomes determined to learn how to communicate with Emma. She begins to learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder and asks Emma's mom to show her the different ways she can communicate with her new friend. Harper becomes excited to begin to use her new tools to communicate with Emma. The two become inseparable from that day on. Harper introduces Emma to all her friends and teaches them how to communicate with her. Harper and Emma become the center of their circle of friends and begin to have many more adventures together.

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EXCERPTS:

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Lisa Jacovsky currently is a Doctoral Level student at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is excited for the possibilities having her Doctoral degree will bring her. She has been in the field of ABA since 2014 where she began her career working with adults in residential group homes. She moved onto working with children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2018 and is currently working in Early Intervention. It is her experience with children that inspired her to finally fulfill her dream of writing a book. Lisa began writing short stories when she was seven years old. Writing is a passion for her and one of the many things she enjoys. Lisa lives in New Jersey where she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and working on the next stories of the Rascal Cat brothers silly shenanigans.  

Facebook: Booksbylisajacovsky

Instagram: Booksbylisajcovsky

Twitter: Lisachildbooks

Website: www.lisajayauthor.com

Email: ljayauthor@gmail.co,

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE

Lisa Jacovsky will be awarding signed copies of both her children's books and four kinds of stickers (two of each book) to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

RAFFLECOPTER:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/28e4345f3690

Cleo Can Tie a Bow by Sybrina Durant

 

Join us for this tour from Apr 6 to Apr 19, 2021! 

Book Details: Book Title:  Cleo Can Tie a Bow by Sybrina Durant 

Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages 

Genre:  Children's Picture Book 

Publisher:  Sybrina Publishing 

Release date:   Sept 27th, 2020 

Content Rating:  G for everyone. [youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9p4b6V6ONw] 

Book Description: Cleo can tie a bow. She learned from a rabbit and a fox. They can help you learn to tie one, too. Great parent-child activity for learning to tie a bow with any ribbon or string - including shoe laces.

Buy the Book

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Cleo Can Tie a Bow: A Rabbit and a Fox Story by Sybrina Durant is a cute little story about a little girl who loves bows so much she has them everywhere. You will find them in her hair, on her shoes, in her room on her bed and on her curtains. Everywhere she goes and everywhere she is there are bows. Pink bows, so apparently she loves pink too because there is also a lot of pink in her book, which is fine with me because I love pink as well. And the fox and the bunny were so cute, and what a clever idea to have the focus Tie the rabbits ears at the same time Cleo tied her bow to teach children how to tie a bow for themselves. The fox and the deer are adorable as well as the deer they invited along. These are among the amazingly creative illustrations created by illustrator Pumudi Gardiyawasam. I just love how Gardiyawasam brings the story to life by creating the perfect picture for each page, with unique and fabulous characters and the vibrant and beautiful colors throughout the book. I can see little girls loving this book, so my copy is going to my sweet and beautiful grandaughter. Cleo Can Tie a Bow is a wonderful, colorful book inside and out and would be the perfect addition to any daycare, preschool or kindergarten classroom, as well as any elementary school library. I can also see this book in dentist and Drs. offices. If books are allowed. Go out and get this book for your child. You will be happy you did. A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. .

Are there under-represented ideas featured in your book? 

No, but this book has received a lot of criticism for containing so many pictures of a little girl wearing the color pink. Some critics have mentioned they thought that might be off-putting to boys. I find that strange, since we live in a time that is celebrated as being all inclusive. After all, pink is not just for girls anymore and boys have always looked good in bows.

In actuality, only about 10 out of 32 pages of the book feature the color pink. The rest of the story takes place in a naturally colored forest setting so there is really no reason for boys not to be able to enjoy the reading and learning process just as much as girls will. 

How important are names to you in your books? How do you choose names? 

Character names are very important. In fact, I’ll share a little secret with you that all the characters in this book have unwritten names. No one will ever know what they are unless they read this little back story. (https://wordpress.com/post/sybrinapublishing.wordpress.com/10190)  Regarding how I chose the main character’s name for this book, I wanted a name that flowed easily in the title or that rhymed with the word bow. I developed a very long list of possibilities. Here are a few: Tibby, Tessy, Becka, and Chloe. It took me a long time to settle on Cleo. I think I picked the best name.  How about you?  

What are some day jobs that you have held?  Have any of them impacted your writing? 

I still have a day job at an engineering company. For nearly forty years, I have been a catalogue-er of information in some capacity or other. I work 10 hours a day at my “day” job and then I come home and work some more on my “wobby”, as my husband calls it. It doesn’t impact my writing too much because I really don’t write that much anymore – but it does have a huge effect on how I go about promoting and marketing my books. You must be very disciplined about keeping track of who you have reached out to and how you have reached out to them. It takes a lot of creativity and pre-planning and scheduling, too. Those kinds of things take thousands of hours. That kind of work is never, ever done. I have found ways to save myself lots of time in the process. I use auto-scheduling services to post daily to all of my social media and to my blog.  Most of my posts are related to promoting the sale of off-shoot products related to my books. Being an Amazon associate, allows me to find lots of items related to themes and characters in my books. You can see some of the products related to Cleo Can Tie A Bow in my Girls Love Bows Gift Shop. https://sybrinapublishing.wordpress.com/girls-love-bows-gift-shop-glbgs-1/

Do you now or have you ever considered writing under a pen-name? Why or why not? No, I never wanted to do that because of 2 reasons. The first is because when I was young and dumb, I hated my name because no one ever pronounced it correctly. I told my Dad I wanted a nick name that was easy to say and he got very angry. He told me he gave me such a unique name because he knew I was going to be famous some day. Of course, as a teenager, I simply couldn’t see beyond the nose on my face and scoffed at that idea.  But then, in my 30’s, a psychic told me that I would one day be famous for my writings and songs and that they would help a lot of people. Maybe, though far apart, both of those incidents were the catalysts that make me strive so hard (through marketing and promoting) to let the public know that my books exist and that they can be found under the name that my father wanted people to know me by. My little sister, however, writes under the pen name, Gina Rose. She is an exceptional author of historical regency romance. All of her books are full of humor and suspense, too.

What’s your funniest flaw?  That I’m a Pollyanna. The definition being that I am an excessively and blindly optimistic person.  My glass is always half-full.  Why is that a funny flaw, you might ask? Well, because I’ll probably still be promising myself that all my efforts will eventually pay off when I’m lying on my death bed.  I think a lot of entrepreneurs have that syndrome. You know…like…even if I never experience financial success from all this hard work, maybe my books will become famous after I’ve passed and my kids will one day benefit.

 

Meet the Author: I've been writing creative and technical works for years. Many of my songs are on Youtube and Itunes. Two of my books are available as ebooks online. They are "Learn To Tie A Tie WIth The Rabbit And The Fox" and "Sybrina's Phrase Thesaurus". connect with the author: website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ pinterest ~ instagram ~ goodreads

 

Tour Schedule: Apr 6 - Laura's Interests – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway Apr 6 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book review / giveaway Apr 6 - A Mama's Corner of the World – book review / giveaway Apr 7 - Rockin' Book Tours – book spotlight / giveaway Apr 7 – Lisa's Reading – book review / giveaway Apr 8 - Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway Apr 8 - Cover Lover Book Review - book review / author interview / giveaway Apr 9 – Hall Ways Blog – book review / giveaway Apr 9 - Books, Tea, Healthy Me – book review / guest post / giveaway Apr 12 – Splashes of Joy – book review / author interview / giveaway Apr 12 - Sefina Hawke's Books – book spotlight Apr 12 – Kam's Place – book review Apr 13 – Chit Chat with Charity – book review / author interview Apr 13 - The Bespectacled Mother – book review Apr 14 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review / author interview / giveaway Apr 14 - The Momma Spot – book review / giveaway Apr 15 – Reading is My Passion – book review Apr 15 - The Book Review Crew – book review / guest post / giveaway Apr 16 – She Just Loves Books – book review / giveaway Apr 16 - icefairy's Treasure Chest - book review / giveaway Apr 19 – I'm All About Books – book spotlight / giveaway Apr 19 - Leels Loves Books – book review / giveaway

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Cancer Awareness Book Tour with Multiple Authors

  According to the National Cancer Institute, "In 2020, an estimated 1,806,590 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in the United States and 606,520 people will die from the disease." It is impossible to meet someone who has not been touched by this disease in some manner, whether it be physically or emotionally.

There are many types of cancer--so many that each month of the year is dedicated to promoting awareness of a different type. Just as cancer comes in various forms, it touches different people in various ways. When a writer is touched by this disease, the natural reaction is to take pen to paper--or rather fingers to keyboard. The results will surprise you! The stories are as diverse as the disease. During the month of April, here at iRead Book Tours, we are featuring some tremendous titles written by or inspired by cancer survivors!

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View AGAIN: SURVIVING CANCER TWICE WITH LOVE AND LISTS on iRead Book Tours

 

Book Title:  Again: Surviving Cancer Twice with Love and Lists Author:  Christine Shields Corrigan ​Category:  Adult Non-Fiction (18+), 256 pages Genre:  Memoir Publisher:  Koehler Books Release date:  Oct 2020 Formats Available for review: print-softback (USA and Canada), ebook (mobi file (for Kindle), gifted Kindle copy, PDF, NetGalley download) Tour dates:  May 10 to May 28, 2021 Content Rating:  PG-13. My book has some profanity and one non-explicit sex scene with my husband.

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"This  no-nonsense debut memoir recalls Corrigan's two-time battle with cancer and takes a pragmatic approach toward guiding other patients. Candid, sagacious writing on illness and adaptation." --Kirkus Reviews

 

 

A breast cancer diagnosis at forty-nine forces Christine Shields Corrigan, a wife, mom, and meticulous list-maker, to confront her deepest fears of illness, death, and loss of control as she struggles to face cancer again. From the discovery of a “junky” cyst, to chemotherapy and surgery, sleepless nights filled with rosaries and “what ifs,” and shifting family dynamics, her adult experience mirrors her teen bout with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, with one exception—she no longer has parents keeping her in the dark.

With the ghosts of cancer past hovering around her, Chris falls into the same overprotective traps her taciturn Irish-Catholic parents created, striving to keep her family’s life “normal,” when it is anything but, and soldiering through on her own, until a neighbor’s unexpected advice and gift move her to accept others’ help. With fierce honesty, poignant reflection, and good humor, Chris shares a journey filled with sorrow, grace, forgiveness, and resilience, as she winds her way through cancer for the second time. Again offers practical guidance and hope to individuals that they have the strength to forge a path beyond a diagnosis.

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Buy the Book: Amazon ~ B&N ~ BAM Book Depository ~ IndieBound Add to Goodreads

 

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View FLYING AGAINST THE ODDS

on iRead Book Tours

 

Book Title:  FLYING AGAINST THE ODDS: One Man's Journey to New Ways of Healing by Jean-Jacques Trochon with Heather Whitehall-Trochon Category:  Adult Non-Fiction (18+),  249 pages Genre:  Memoir Publisher:  Ikhaya Publishing Release date:   November 2020 Format available for review:  print (Internationally), ebook (mobi, epub) Tour dates: May 17 to June 4, 2021 Content Rating:  G. Memoir for General Audience.

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“IT TAKES A DIFFERENT KIND OF THINKING TO SOLVE A PROBLEM THAN THE KIND OF THINKING THAT PRODUCED THE PROBLEM.” —Albert Einstein Jean-Jacque (JJ) had a devastating problem. At age fifty-one, he was diagnosed with stage four cancer and given three years to live. Rather than accept that outcome, JJ did what he always does: he set out to find a solution. Desiring to look beyond traditional treatments and their often harmful side effects, he put his unconventionally wired mind to work. JJ was relentless as he investigated alternative therapies and pursued global trailblazers in cancer research. Moving from the role of patient to patient-researcher, he became a trailblazer in his own right, being sought after for his latest findings. Ultimately, JJ brought together the most innovative international minds at the Rethinking Cancer 2017 conference in Paris. Together, they found common ground, and they continue to create integrative, synergistic approaches to treatment. Today, almost a decade after his diagnosis, JJ has defied the odds and is cancer-free. Recently retired from his career as a commercial airline captain on the Airbus A380, he now devotes himself to sharing his ongoing research with scientists and patients. JJ’s story illustrates how looking at things differently often enables us to see them in a whole new light.

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Buy the Book: Amazon ~ Book Depository add to Goodreads

 

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View CAROLINE AND MORDECAI THE GAND on iRead Book Tours

 

 

 

Book Title: Caroline & Mordecai the Gand by Jeff Gunhus Category:  Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12), 186 pages Genre: Fantasy, Literary Publisher:  Seven Guns Press Release date:  March 31, 2021 Format available for review:  print (USA), ebook (mobi for kindle, epub, PDF, audiobook (audible download) Tour dates:  Mar 31 to May 11, 2021 Content Rating: PG: The language is G. There is one scene with the main character punches a bully resulting in a bloody nose. The emotional treatment of grief and the death of a loved one can be somewhat intense.

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"Readers of all ages who look for ethereal, haunting stories of recovery and courage will find Caroline & Mordecai the Gand may hold the trappings of a fantasy adventure; but inside there is so much more. Make the right decision, to read this!" - D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review "Caroline’s story is profoundly sad, and yet hopeful, magical, and yet rooted in reality. There is magic, mystery, and daring adventure." - BooksCoffee

Jeff Gunhus

This novella was written by USA Today bestselling author Jeff Gunhus after he received a devastating diagnosis of state 3 cancer. The story is a message to his five children on how to deal with grief and a plea for them to grasp onto joy and love even in the darkest of times. Caroline loses her spark. It takes a great adventure for her to find it again. Caroline loses her father in a car accident for which she feels responsible. Consumed by grief, she has a difficult time readjusting to a world that has changed so dramatically for her. On the anniversary of her father’s death, a strange window opens in the middle of the small lake behind her house. She climbs up an old oak to peer inside, but falls out of the tree and discovers that the window also serves as a door into a different world. Enter Mordecai the Gand, a mysterious traveler who befriends Caroline and promises to help her find a way back home since the window she fell through has disappeared. The two set out on a series of adventures that include visiting a tree village populated by a tribe known for eating travelers, running into a witch under a spell of her own making, hiding in a cave with a dragon encased in a wall of ice (prone to melting by campfire), all the while being pursued by a mysterious entity call the Creach which promises to devour Caroline and trap her in an eternity of despair. As they navigate these adventures and this new world, Caroline slowly discovers that she is meant to help each of the characters she meets. As she battles internally whether to stay or return home to the sadness and grief waiting for her there, she must regain perspective and open her heart to the act of caring and to the joy of love itself. In the end, she must demonstrate great courage, loyalty, and caring as the plot unfolds, becoming the active hero of her own story.

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Buy the Book: Amazon ~  Audible Add the Goodreads

 

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View MARVELLOUS MACEY THE DELIGHTFUL DAYS on iRead Book Tours

 

Book Title:  Marvellous Macey, The Delightful Days by Caitlin Bangsund Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-8),  40 pages Genre:  Children's Picture Book Publisher:  Caitlin E. Bangsund Release date:   March 2021 Format available for review:  print, ebook (PDF) Will send print books out:  USA and Canada Tour dates: Mar 1 to mar 28, 2021 Content Rating:  G. This children's book is for everyone.

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booksforbookz.blogspot.com/2021/03/marvellous-macey-delightful-days-by.htmlCan you va va voom? Do you light up the room? Marvellous Macey does! She may not quite fit the mould, but she is living delightful days. Embrace Macey's world of imagination and ability to love and accept everyone. Life may not be perfect and some things might be hard, but Macey shows us how to live in the moment and find the delight! Be inspired by Macey to make everyday the BEST day. Caitlin Bangsund is the author of Marvellous Macey, The Delightful Days. It is the first in a series based on true life. Caitlin knows the trial and trauma of childhood cancer, childhood disability, and the fear of almost losing her daughter — the star of the series — Macey. She encourages readers to look for the treasures that hide in the rubble and gloom. Life is beautiful chaos and her message is to press on and conquer. Read her stories and help create a world that is full of kindness and acceptance.

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BUY THE BOOK: Author's Website Amazon add to Goodreads

 

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View MC PLAYS HIDE AND SEEK on iRead Book Tours

 

Book Title:  MC Plays Hide and Seek: An Empowering Story for Healthy Children Who Care About a Person Living with Cancer by Eva Grayzel Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  64 pages Genre:  Children's Picture Book Publisher:  Mascot Books Release date:   Jan 5, 2021 Format available for review:  print (USA), pdf Tour dates: Jan 5 to Feb 1, 2021 Content Rating:  G for everyone.

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When asked about her motivation for writing her children's picture book about cancer, author Eva Grayzel explains: My children were 5 and 7 when I was diagnosed with stage IV oral cancer. It’s a disease that cannot be hidden under clothing. My caregivers were so consumed with me, we didn’t addressthe feelings of our children. I regret not seeking professional attention for them during that time, but we didn’t think of it. If my healthcare providers had recommended it, we would have followed through.

Since my voice was compromised during treatment, finding a book about understanding cancer would have been an easy solution. However, I could not find one to help start the conversation with our children. Months after my recovery, my daughter still wouldn’t kiss me. She was intuitive, afraid of losing me and didn’t want to commit to another day of loving me. My son was shopping  with his grandma for a birthday card and he found a Get Well card. “Let’s buy this for Mom.” Grandma had to tell him that I wasn’t sick anymore. When I reached my 10 year cancer-free anniversary, I had to mark it. There was no better way than filling the void for a children’s book to minimize fear and promote dialogue about cancer. ‘M.C. Plays Hide & Seek’ emphasizes feelings children experience and ways to address their emotions in a healthy, comfortable way. It’s everything I wished I had for my children. And, I hope it will be everything you need for yours.

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Buy the Book Amazon.com Eva Grayzel ~ B&N

 

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Tour Schedule: Apr 5 – Cover Lover Book Review – books spotlight Apr 6 – Man of la Book - A Bookish Blog – books spotlight Apr 7 – Lamon Reviews – books spotlight Apr 8 – Rockin' Book Reviews – books spotlight Apr 8 - Thoughts in Progress – books spotlight Apr 13 – Books for Books – books spotligh

• Apr 13 - Gina Rae Mitchell - books spotlight Apr 14 – Literary Flits – books spotlight Apr 15 – A Mama's Corner of the World – books spotlight Apr 20 – The Adventures Of a Travelers Wife – books spotlight Apr 21 – Lisa's Reading – books spotlight Apr 22 – jayme_reads – books spotlight Apr 23 -  Splashes of Joy – books spotlight Apr 27 – Sefina Hawke's Books – books spotlight Apr 28 – Locks, Hooks and Books – books spotlight Apr 30 – Kam's Place – books spotlight

Melanin Brown Discovers America by Candice Davis

 

Join us for this tour from Apr 6 to Apr 19, 2021!

Book Details: 

Book Title:  Melanin Brown Discovers America by Candice Davis

Category:  Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12),  96 pages 

Genre: Early Chapter/Middle Grade 

Publisher:  Mascot 

Release date:  April 2021 

Content Rating:  G.

Book Description: Melanin Brown is a girl far beyond her years who observes a brand new student being bullied at her school because of his ethics. This causes her to feel distressed, uncomfortable, and the treatment does not sit right with her. As she is given guidance from her parents, friends, and teachers, she also leans on her desire to treat people in the same manner in which she would want to be treated. Melanin finds how to confront disparate difficult situations while simultaneously navigating her own sense of truth and justice. Melanin is the friend we all wish was in our group when we were in school. Kind, sincere, and smart, Melanin is a leader for our times whose compassion knows no bounds. Open these pages and accompany Melanin on her path to self-confidence!

 

Buy the Book: Amazon.com ~ Mascot B&N Add to Goodreads 

Meet the Author: Candice Davis is a middle school Special Education Teacher in Washington, D.C., with a background in film. She started her career in education as a Curriculum and Personnel Specialist, writing grants and proposals. Due to her desire to have more of a direct impact with disadvantaged students, she transitioned into teaching. This is Davis’s debut book. She holds a M.Ed. in Educational Psychology with a focus in Social Foundations from the University of Virginia and a BA in Film and Video Studies from George Mason University.

Tour Schedule: Apr 6 – Working Mommy Journal – book spotlight Apr 6 - Sefina Hawke's Books – book spotlight Apr 7 – Rockin' Book Reviews – book spotlight Apr 8 – A Mama's Corner of the World – book spotlight Apr 9 – Splashes of Joy – book spotlight Apr 12 – The Book Review Crew – book spotlight Apr 13 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book spotlight Apr 14 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight Apr 15 – Laura's Interests – book spotlight Apr 16- Books, Tea, Healthy Me – book spotlight Apr 19 - Deborah-Zenha Adams – book spotlight

The Wisdom of the Flock by Steve M. Gnatz

 

Join us for this tour from Mar 29 to Apr 9, 2021! 

Book Details: 

Book Title:  The Wisdom of the Flock: Franklin and Mesmer in Paris by Steve M. Gnatz Category:  Adult Fiction (18+),  541 pages Genre:  Historical Fiction 

Publisher:  Leather Apron Press 

Release date:   January 2021 

Content Rating:  PG-13. There is mild (romantic) sexual content and very mild profanity.

View the book trailer here:

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=3881313301879562

Book Description: 1776: Benjamin Franklin sails to Paris, carrying a copy of the Declaration of Independence, freshly signed. His charge: gain the support of France for the unfolding American Revolution. Yet Paris is a city of distractions. Ben’s lover, Marianne Davies, will soon arrive, and he yearns to rekindle his affair with the beautiful musician. Dr. Franz Mesmer has plans for Marianne too. He has taken Parisian nobility by storm with his discovery of magnétisme animale, a mysterious force claimed to heal the sick. Marianne’s ability to channel Mesmer’s phenomena is key to his success. A skeptical King Louis XVI appoints Ben to head a commission investigating the astonishing magnétisme animale. By nature, Ben requires proof. Can he scientifically prove that it does not exist? Mesmer will stop at nothing to protect his profitable claim. The Wisdom of The Flock explores the conflict between science and mysticism in a time rife with revolution, love, spies, and passion.

Buy the Book Amazon B&N ~ IndieBound add to Goodreads

The Wisdom of the Flock: Franklin and Mesmer in Paris by Steve M. Gnatz is and interesting view of Franklin sailing to Paris with a copy of the Declaration of Independence, and the time he spent in France. There is a lot to learn here and the author gives his thoughts on what it was like. I found the characters well thought out and crafted and I think they all played their parts well as the story unfolds. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of historical France the happenings there and all that went on as he told Benjamin Franklin's detailed journey in France. Each scene crafted was told with expertise and detail throughout the places there during that Era. Gnatz takes us on an interesting journey with a compelling story that is mixed with true facts as well as a bit of fiction made up through the mind and eyes of this author. Being a musician, one thing I especially enjoyed was  Marianne Davis and her love for music. Though I know how glass can be musical, I had never heard of the glass armonica Franklin built for Marianne. How I would love to hear Marianne play the glass armonica today. I enjoyed learning even more about this instrument in the interview from the author published here. I encourage you to read this wonderful and interesting interview. I enjoyed this book very much, though it was pretty long, and for me I think it could have been shortened a bit if a lot if the unnecessary words could have been taken out. All in all it is an interesting read. The author's extensive research is evident here as well as his love and knowledge for the historical icon Benjamin Franklin. I encourage others to check The Wisdom of the Flock: and Mesmer in Paris by Steve M. Gnatz out. Whether you are a history buff or maybe just wanting an interesting historical story. A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

And now an interesting interview with the Author Steve M. Gnatz

 

1. What is a glass armonica and how does it figure in the book? Ben Franklin invented the glass armonica. The story goes that he was familiar with the musicians who used “musical glasses” to produce sound. This practice had probably been around nearly as long as glass itself. Ben observed in 1761, after seeing Marianne Davies perform on the musical glasses, that despite how beautifully she played, she appeared to be in pain from the activity. He devised an instrument that featured sequentially sized stacked glass bowls attached to a rod at their center and bathed in a tub of water. The rod was turned by a treadle mechanism, keeping the turning bowls bathed with water. The musician could then gently apply her finger to the appropriate bowl to produce the note she wanted – resulting in music without any pain. Ben had the very first glass armonica built for Marianne. Historians have questioned the nature of the relationship between them - but very little is known. For a time, Marianne was quite successful as a musician using the instrument that Franklin had invented for her. Later in her career though, in a letter featured in The Wisdom of the Flock, she lamented that Franklin no longer seemed to want to protect her “franchise” and that many other musicians were able to compete. I took advantage of the lack of detail in the historical record to create a relationship between Franklin and Marianne Davies that was already in place at the beginning of the book - but then also to explore how their relationship changed over time, ultimately leading to her disenfranchisement.
2. How was Mesmer involved with the glass armonica? It is historically accurate that Mesmer obtained his copy of Marianne’s instrument during a time that she was playing in Vienna prior to the opening of The Wisdom of the Flock. But any romantic relationship between Mesmer and Marianne is a presumption, as there is no historical record one way or the other. Nonetheless, the glass armonica has a haunting, ethereal quality that Mesmer found useful in his seances. He is known to have played it very well himself. The glass armonica fell out of favor in the early 1800’s (but is recently enjoying somewhat of a revival) as it was felt to be associated with melancholy and madness. Some have theorized that this association was due to high lead content in the glass bowls. Mozart and many other composers wrote music for the glass armonica in its heyday – which can still be heard performed today. Of course, modern glass armonicas do not use leaded glass!
3. Are there other examples of the role of music in The Wisdom of the Flock? Franklin was a music lover. He is known to have played the glass armonica, but mostly he was known to appreciate music and musicians. He is said to have loved listening to anyone playing Scottish Aires. I used the knowledge of Franklin’s love for music to help inform his relationship with Marianne. It is also known that he befriended Madame Brillon (an accomplished musician) and also a potential love interest, while in Paris. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was in Paris around the time of the book and makes a cameo appearance playing at private showing of the Beaumarchais play The Marriage of Figaro. The blind pianist Maria Paradis is featured, both due to her special relationship with Mesmer – for he is purported to have helped her (temporarily) regain her sight using magnetism animale – as well as her playing of a concert in Paris during Franklin’s time there. And Marco (a fictional character) and his merry band bond with Marianne and the others on the Seine in singing folk songs that they all instinctively know.
4. What about the setting of your book? Have you been to Passy? I’ve been to Paris many times, but the area where Franklin stayed in Passy has changed significantly over time as the city expanded. In the late 1700’s, Passy and Auteuil were outside of the city gates of Paris. They were suburbs, if you will, or even perhaps more like separate country towns outside the walls. Today, you can see a small plaque not too far from the Eiffel tower that denotes the area where Passy and Auteuil used to be. The home of the Leray family (the Hôtel de Valentinois), depicted in The Wisdom of the Flock and where Franklin stayed during his time in France, is gone. The Kingswoods is now a city park. The Louvre was not a museum yet, but a government office building. The Tuileries Gardens and the Place Vendôme are very much the same as they were. In fact, I used my own recollection of the shadows among the colonnades of the Place Vendôme in creating the scenes of Mesmer’s quarters there - especially in the way people (such as Marianne) could drift in and out in a ghostly fashion. The Ile de la Cité and the Pont Neuf are still in the same places, but no doubt considerably more crowded than during Franklin’s time there. Still, it is fun to walk across the bridge and think about how Marianne might have scurried at night!

1. The Wisdom of the Flock seems to be about human relationships, is it? Yes and no. I tried to use the narrative to weave a tale using historical characters (real and fictional) and give them personalities and qualities that would make them feel human to the reader. I wanted to tell the story using their dialogue. The superficial story does have a lot to do with my characters falling in (and out) of love. But my goal was also to tell a deeper story of the power of love and hope. As Ben reminds us - a definition of hope is a common vision of a better future. Perhaps at a subconscious level if we can envision a better future (whether it is in human relationships, the birthing the United States, or in health/wellness) we will see our hopes come to fruition.

Meet the Author: Steve Gnatz is a writer, physician, bicyclist, photographer, traveler, and aspiring ukulele player. The son of a history professor and a nurse, it seems that both medicine and history are in his blood. Writing historical fiction came naturally. An undergraduate degree in biology was complemented by a minor in classics. After completing medical school, he embarked on an academic medical career specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. There was little time for writing during those years, other than research papers and a technical primer on electromyography. Now retired from the practice of medicine, he devotes himself to the craft of fiction. The history of science is of particular interest, but also the dynamics of human relationships. People want to be good scientists, but sometimes human nature gets in the way. That makes for interesting stories. When not writing or traveling, he enjoys restoring Italian racing bicycles at home in Chicago with his wife and daughters. connect with the author:  website ~ facebook ~ goodreads

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Tour Schedule: Mar 29 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway Mar 29 - Gina Rae Mitchell - book spotlight / giveaway Mar 30 – Rockin' Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway Mar 31 – Book Corner News and Reviews – book review / giveaway Apr 1 – Deborah-Zenha Adams – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway Apr 1 - Sefina Hawke's Books – book review Apr 2 - Books Lattes & Tiaras – book review / giveaway Apr 5 – Splashes of Joy – book review / author interview / giveaway Apr 6 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway Apr 6 - Books for Books – book review Apr 7 – Laura's Interests – book review / guest post / giveaway Apr 7 - I Read What You Write - book review / guest post / giveaway Apr 8 – PuzzlePaws Blog – book review / giveaway Apr 8 - Kam's Place – book spotlight / guest post Apr 9 – michellemengsbookblog – book review / author interview / giveaway Apr 9 - Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway TBA – High Society Book Club & Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway

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Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers by Mary Brett

 

Join us for this tour from Mar 22 to Apr 2, 2021!

Book Details: 

Book Title:  Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers by Mary Brett 

Category:  Adult Non-Fiction (18 +),  350 pages Genre:  True Crime 

Publisher: Wildblue Press 

Release date:   Jan 19, 2020 

Format available:  print, ebook, and audible Content Rating:  R. VIOLENCE, CRIME SCENE PHOTOS

Book Description: OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF SERIAL KILLERS​ by author Mary Brett is as close as you will ever come to discovering the answer ... and in the killer’s own words! In this one-of-a-kind book, author Mary Brett corresponded with some of America’s most evil convicted serial killers and asked just one question: ​WHY? Their return letters give an insightful look into the dark mind of each killer. The reader also will be able to scrutinize direct quotes, unedited, from ​interrogation statements, trial testimony, media interviews, and parole hearing inquests 75 Serial Killers are included in the book, some only known to the unfortunate victims’ family, friends, and community, while others are the most infamous in the annals of serial killers. All bios feature the crime, the capture, the victims, and background facts. Crime scene Photos, some graphic, are featured.

 

Buy the Book: Amazon ~ WildBlue Press Audible

Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers by Mary Brett is an interesting book to read. Brett contacted about 75 serial killers to get their reasoning of why they took the lives of many people. Only a few wrote back, but it was interesting to read what they had to say. The answers were scattered, some not admitting to be a killer at all, some told exactly what happened and some really didn't give an answer at all. There were many that were deceased. Brett did an excellent job of researching each person and had all of the info about their life, early childhood, growing up, and the crimes they were convicted of and those that didn't have enough evidence. There are quotes from most of them from different publications. I am glad I read this book, knowing how some of these criminals felt at the time the murdered their victims. I wish there had been more direct letters to hear more from the actual serial killers. Letters were the most interesting part.  All in all, I sometimes read true crime books and this is a good one, it is well written and extensive research was done in order to obtain all of the info in each book. If you enjoy stories such as this, I encourage you to try Mary Brett's book.

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Meet the Author:

I have just finished my 4th book, OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF SERIAL KILLERS. Iwrote to convicted serial killers asking just one question: Why? Their letters back to me formed the basis of what I hope is a fascinating read as well as a chilling look into the mindset of 75 psychopathic killers who walked among us. WildBlue Press is the Publisher and I thank them and their amazing staff for producing my book in both paperback andKindle format. In presales, my book hit #1 on Kindle in VIOLENCE IN SOCIETY. I am a Virginia native, living in Florida. I hold a BFA from Virginia Commonwealth University.connect with the author: amazon

Tour Schedule: Mar 22  - From the TBR Pile – book review / giveaway Mar 22 - Stephanie Jane - book spotlight / giveaway Mar 24 - Books for Books – book spotlight Mar 25 – Pick A Good Book – book review / guest post / giveaway Mar 26 - Celticlady's Reviews – book spotlight / giveaway Mar 26 – Reading is My Passion – book review Mar 29 – Bound 4 Escape – book review / giveaway Mar 30 – Sefina Hawke's Books – book spotlight Mar 30 - Jazzy Book Reviews - book review / guest post / giveaway Mar 31 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway Mar 31 - Literary Flits - book review / giveaway Apr 1 – Jessica Belmont – book review Apr 1 - Leels Loves Books - book review / giveaway Apr 2 - The World As I See It – book review / giveaway    Enter the Giveaway: a Rafflecopter giveaway https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js

Lets Talk! A story of Autism and Friendship by Lisa Jacovsky

 

Join us for this tour from Mar 29 to Apr 16, 2021!

Book Details:

Book Title:  Lets Talk! A story of Autism and Friendship by Lisa Jacovsky
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Lisa Jacovsky
Release date:   July 2020
Formats Available: hardback, ebook
Tour dates: Mar 29 to Apr 16, 2021
Content Rating:  G.

 

Book Description:

Harper, a seven-year-old little girl that is typically developing, meets a new friend one day at the pool that is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They both love to swim at the pool and want to play together however, Emma has little communication skills. Emma can make sounds and 

not words and flaps her hands when she is excited. When Harper realizes she cannot communicate with her new friend she becomes determined to find a way to. She begins to learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder and the different ways that Emma can communicate. Once she does the two become inseparable. Harper introduces Emma to all her friends and teaches them how to communicate with Emma. Harper and Emma become the center of their circle of friends and have more many more adventures

together.

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NOW LETS HEAR MORE ABOUT THIS BOOK FROM THE AUTHOR 

There are many books out there about autism and/or friendship, What makes yours "different?

    There are books out there about Autism or with a main character that has Autism. I think what makes my book different is that the book is based off my real-life experience in my career. I work in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis and was able to bring a lot of my experience to what I wrote in the book. Emma uses a specific technique to communicate which her key ring of cards with words on it she can read and point to. This is called a PECS or Picture Exchange Communication System and I don’t think many people would know that or know of the use of cards to communicate. There are many different variations of a PECS system but I chose the one I did because of how easy and versatile it is. It Is something I recommend regularly to the families I work with in my career, and it is quite successful. I feel like it brings a realness to the book and something people have not seen before. 

Also, the fact she can read and write I think makes this book stand out. I do not think many people realize how smart little ones with Autism are. By having her be able to read and write I am already pushing the boundary that Autism means little ones cannot communicate. I feel like it shows Autism in a different, more positive light Also, being able to read and write is inspired by a real-life client I had. I have worked with many little ones with Autism that can read and write perfectly well. I think bringing this real ness to the character sets my book apart. I think it shows families if she can do it then their little one can to. 

 

Meet the Authors:

Lisa

Jacovsky currently is a doctoral level student at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is excited the possibilities having her Doctorate degree will bring her. She has been in the field of ABA since 2014. She began working with children with Autism in 2018 and is currently working in Early Intervention. It is her experience with children that inspired her to finally fulfill her dream of writing a book. Lisa began writing short stories when she was seven years old.

Writing is her passion and one of many things she enjoys. She is excited for the future of her series Lets Talk!.

connect with the authors:  website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Tour Schedule:

Mar 29 - Working Mommy Journal – book spotlight / giveaway
Mar 29 - Cover Lover Book Review – book spotlight / giveaway
Mar 29 - Rockin' Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Mar 30 - Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway
Mar 31 – Westveil Publishing - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 1 – She Just Loves Books – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 1 - Gina Rae Mitchell – books spotlight / giveaway
Apr 2 – Splashes of Joy – book spotlight / guest post /giveaway
Apr 5 – I Read Kid's Books – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 5 - A Mama's Corner of the World - book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 6 – The Adventures of a Travelers Wife – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 7 – What Polly Reads – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 7 - Locks, Hooks and Books – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 8 – Sefina Hawke's Books – book spotlight
Apr 8 - The Bespectacled Mother - book spotlight
Apr 9 – Nighttime Reading Center – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 12 – Lisa's Reading – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 13 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 14 – I'm All About Books – book spotlight /giveaway
Apr 14 – Pick A Good Book – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 15 – Books for Books – book spotlight
Apr 16 – Struck by Stories – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway

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