Today's Featured Books— Spotlight
Spotlight on Rampart, a political thriller from Truscott Jones
Literary Fiction and Poetry Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror Spotlight
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Rampart, a new political/legal thriller from author Truscott Jones. If you enjoy the political intrigue and high-stakes drama of Grisham and Turow, you’ll love Rampart.
★★★★★ "Politics, power, and suspense – Rampart has it all." ~Amazon Review
Rampart
Genre: Political Fiction, Legal ThrillerNew Release: December 31, 2024
4.9 stars, 10 ratings
Price: From $2.99
On a crisp morning at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, former Secret Service agent Sam Kilbrough stands only feet from the main stage as the president approaches. A 9mm Glock G43 is carefully tucked inside his Gore-Tex windbreaker. When he expertly draws the gun and shoots the man he was once sworn to protect, it sparks the trial of the century...against sitting Vice President Elijah Styles. Did the nation’s first gay VP conspire to murder his own boss, or was Styles the victim of a masterful set up?
As the trial begins, the nation is divided: Was Styles a scheming climber fixated on taking the Oval Office by any means, or a hero devoted to derailing a mad ruler’s tyrannical plans? Lawyer Mandela Briggs and his tiny defense team are determined to save their client from the death penalty, while the ambitious U.S. attorney is hell-bent on securing a conviction that will launch his campaign for the Senate. Through it all, Chief District Court Judge Carolyn Bering must navigate the courtroom as tensions rise and the political stakes escalate. The decision ultimately lies in the hands of twelve jurors, each with their own biases and motivations.
This thriller exposes the cultural petri dish of an us-versus-them society, diving behind the scenes to lay bare the human impulses driving both our nation’s justice system and its politics. Was the assassin a Trojan Horse sent by Styles to kill President Magnus Thorne and propel the Veep into the White House, or a lone wolf with a warped sense of patriotism? Did Thorne stage the spectacle to evoke sympathy, justifying troops on American streets and his war on dissent? Were Styles and Kilbrough lovers?
Follow the trial’s twists and turns, from the West Wing to the courthouse to the court of public opinion, to see if anyone can bridge the gap between the search for truth and the quest for power. The fate of the nation rests on the jury’s decision.
About the Author
Truscott Jones practiced trial law for 25 years, the last ten as founder and senior partner of his own firm. He sold his practice, leaving to teach government and world affairs to students at a public high school. Amidst both careers, always the political nerd, Jones worked at two national conventions, crunching delegate rules for presidential candidates on a pair of campaigns, and as surrogate speaker and debate-prep partner for a sitting U.S. senator. Learn more by visiting and following his Amazon Author Page.
Spotlight on The Karma Series from author Mark Nistor
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Karma Series from author Mark Nistor:
"A rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue." ~NetGalley Review
Challenging Karma
The Karma Series Book 1Genres: Psychological Literary Fiction; Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Literary Fiction; Psychological Thrillers
Paperback: $9.99
Ebook: $1.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
In a tale of unimaginable wealth and stereotypical boredom, four men embark on a quest for fulfillment that concludes with an enthralling murder mystery game. Unknowing foes come and go from their game. Some will not survive, but the ones who live start their own customized versions of the murderous game.
How many lives change in the name of boredom, revenge, and justice? Uncover the influence of Karma on a detective, vigilante, and homeless individual as they fight to prevail in a challenge started by four wealthy friends.
Praise for Challenging Karma
- "Gritty and riveting." ~Reedsy Review
- "A great read for anyone who loves a good mystery with a twist." ~NetGalley Review
- "A riveting mystery that kept me guessing until the very end." ~Goodreads Review
Surviving Karma
The Karma Series Book 2Genres: Psychological Fiction; Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Literary Fiction; Psychological Thrillers
Paperback: $11.49
Ebook: $3.49 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A day after release from prison after a wrongful murder conviction, Pin joins forces with a criminal mastermind to execute his revenge. But as police officers disappear and police informants offer up a mixed bag of secrets, Pin ultimately deviates from the plan, and one deadly underestimation of a person’s character alters the universe forever.
If you like storytellers with streetwise voices, the unique style of this second book in The Karma Series is for you. Full of twists and turns, this is perfect for literary fiction enthusiasts.
Praise for Surviving Karma
- "An emotional and reflective journey into themes of accountability, resilience, and the human condition." ~Cameron, Books Shelf
- "Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking thrillers with moral complexity and action-packed suspense." ~Sandra Cruz, Reader Views
About the Author
Mark Nistor is a family man, entrepreneur, and author. Trained as a logistics professional, he later ventured into video and television production. Scriptwriting and editing videos to tell a story inspired him to turn one of his first scripts into the novel Challenging Karma. Learn more at MarkNistor.com, and be sure to follow Mark's Amazon Author Page.
Spotlight on The Spirit Song Saga Coming-of-Age Fantasy Series
The Spirit Song Saga from author Ross Hightower is an epic coming-of-age fantasy adventure series that is perfect for young adults and booklovers of all ages. LitNuts recently featured two novels that serve as prequels to the series: Argren Blue and Desulti. Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on three novels that form the core of the Spirit Song Saga Series:
"An exhilarating journey into a world of magic, danger, and sisterhood." ~Readers' Favorite
Bonus: Visit the author's website to read four free short stories. You can also get a free download of the first chapter of Spirit Sight: Volume 1.
Spirit Sight: Volume One
Genre: Coming of Age Fantasy
Book 1 of the Spirit Song Saga
4.5 stars, 72 ratings
Paperback: $16.95
Ebook: On sale for $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Eric B Hoffer 2023 Book Awards Grand Prize Short List
In a remote village, on the edge of a corrupt empire, Minna Hunter wakes one day to find small orbs of light flitting through the trees. But Minna's delight at finding she has spirit sight soon turns to despair. In the Empire, communing with spirits is punishable by death. Branded a witch, she resigns herself to a lonely existence.
When her sister, Alyn, gains spirit sight, Minna promises her she will never leave her alone. But titanic forces are at play, forces with Minna and Alyn's fates in mind. When the Inquisition captures Alyn, Minna must leave her small life and step onto history's grand stage.
In the Inquisition prison, Alyn learns she must choose between serving her captors against her own people or die. Meanwhile, Minna evades agents of the Inquisition and discovers her world is not what she believes it to be. To save her sister, she must master her spirit song, grasp her destiny and become the heroine her people need.
Praise for Spirit Sight: Volume 1
- "High fantasy mixed with mythic tale-telling." ~Eric Hoffer Award
- "Packed with action, with plenty of twists and turns and lots of well-written dialogue." ~Readers' Favorite
- "Blends its classic fantasy premise...with themes of religious and political corruption, with an appealing focus on spirituality and the natural world." ~IndieReader
Spirit Sight: Volume Two
Genres: New Adult and College Fantasy, Coming of Age Fantasy
Book 2 of the Spirit Song Saga
5.0 stars, 11 ratings
Paperback: $16.95
Ebook: $3.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Spirit Sight Vol 1 introduced readers to an epic fantasy adventure, full of magic, mystery, redemption, love and loss. In Spirit Sight Vol 2 the saga continues to its exciting conclusion.
It’s too late for the Empire to capture Minna Hunter before she finds her spirit guide, but she has much to learn, and now they know she’s coming. While Minna and Ulf feel love’s first tremulous breath, the Empire sets its trap.
Though Minna escapes, she’s alone and lost in the teeming Imperial capital. She must evade her pursuers and find a way to rescue her sister. Meanwhile, Alyn faces an impossible choice; become the Inquisition’s witch or die.
In an exciting climax, full of gaudy displays of spirit power, wrong turns, missed opportunities, and startling revelations, Minna shoulders the burdens of being her people’s savior.
Praise for Spirit Sight: Volume 2
- "A mystical journey, filled with discovery, forgiveness, tragedy, and triumph!" -JR Konkol, author of the Rebirth of the Fallen series
- "Blends all of the elements of fantasy with the soul-searching, coming of age of the main character. Every page is full to the brim with external crises and internal realizations and truths." ~Kathie Giorgio, author of Hope Also Rises
Spirit Light: Volume One
Genres: Teen & Young Adult Coming of Age Fiction, Teen & Young Adult Epic Fantasy
Book 3 of the Spirit Song Saga
5.0 stars, 8 ratings
Paperback: $19.95
Ebook: $5.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
After their thrilling adventures in Spirit Sight, the Empire knows what Minna and Alyn Hunter are capable of and won't rest until they are dead.
Tales of the powerful saa'myns' exploits spread like wildfire throughout the Empire, igniting their people's hopes for freedom. As the daughters of the greatest seer who ever lived, they know their mother saw a path to defeating the Empire. But Ragan was struck down before telling anyone her plan, leaving them to find the way forward alone.
And they are in more danger than they know. Witches more powerful than the one who killed Ragan are tracking them. Can the Alle'oss withstand the might of the Empire while Minna and Alyn divine their mother's plan? Or is it already too late?
Praise for Spirit Light: Volume 1
- "An exhilarating journey into a world of magic, danger, and sisterhood." ~Readers' Favorite
- "Swashbuckling fantasy adventure of the highest order." ~David Buzan, author of In the Lair of Legends
About the Author
Ross Hightower spent most of his life in the South, but somehow found himself living in Milwaukee and loving it. One cold, snowy morning, not too long ago, he woke with a story stuck in my head. That wasn’t unusual, but what happened next was unprecedented. He wrote it down. That small story grew into his first novel, Spirit Sight. Learn more at RossHightower.com, sign up for his free newsletter, and be sure to follow Ross online:
Spotlight on RT Dixon, author of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Mystery & Romance
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight the work of RT Dixon, author of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Mystery & Romance. In the spotlight are:
Realties Edge
Genre: Science FictionFrom: $3.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A mind-bending tale that follows the intertwined lives of Tony Danials and David Stevenson across multiple realities. The story kicks off with Tony, an elderly man contemplating suicide, who suddenly finds himself living a different life as a successful neurosurgeon married to his longtime love, Mark. As Tony navigates this new reality, he grapples with the joy of a life he always wanted and the confusion of memories from his original timeline.
The narrative then shifts to David Stevenson, who participates in a quantum consciousness experiment that sends him tumbling through various realities. He experiences life as a happily married man in the 1970s, encounters different versions of his friends and loved ones, and struggles to determine which reality is truly his "home."
Throughout their journeys, both Tony and David explore themes of love, identity, regret, the nature of consciousness, and the roads not taken.
Shadows of the Reaper
Genre: FantasyFrom: $3.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
When the line between life and death blurs, what price will you pay to protect the ones you love?
Joey McCreary’s life takes a chilling turn during a mundane night shift at Sunny’s Diner when Death himself offers a deal: an extension of life in exchange for becoming the Reaper’s apprentice. But as Joey collects souls, the weight of his choices grows unbearable, dragging him deeper into a world where morality and mortality clash.
Caught in a sinister web of cosmic balance, Joey must confront his darkest fears and the ultimate sacrifice to redeem himself. Guided by an ancient force of compassion, he discovers that Death is more than an end; it’s a transition...an eternal dance.
The Cost of Silence
Genre: RomanceFrom: 4.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
James has spent decades torn between desire and loss, haunted by the men who shaped his life. First, there was Ethan, the solder who ignited something fierce inside him during the chaos of War. Their love was wild, dangerous, forged in secrecy amidst gunfire and stolen moments. Then came Adam, the man who found James broken and gave him things he didn’t think he could feel again: comfort and stability.
Through it all, Sara has been by James' side, loyal and mischievous, always there to pick up the pieces. But now, Sara is done watching James wallow in the past. She wants him to see what she sees...that he’s still wanted, still needed. And she’s ready to play matchmaker.
About the Author
RT Dixon, who also writes under the name Ron Trentham, is a Tennessee-based author who combines a passion for storytelling with a deep love for animals, capturing the joy, challenges, and heartwarming moments of the bond between humans and their furry companions. Learn more at rtdixon.com, and be sure to follow him online:
The Tixie Chronicles: Children/YA Fantasy from Jack Borden
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Tixie Chronicles, a four-book Children/YA Fantasy series from author Jack Borden. This coming-of-age adventure features heart-stopping sword fighting action scenes, memorable characters with complex relationships, heroic bravery, and vivid world-building.
"A powerful educational tool, this rich work is filled with stunning illustrations and fitting dialogue that enhance the reading experience. It will enthrall children and adults alike." ~Feathered Quill Review
The Vultures of Doom
Book 1 of The Tixie ChroniclesGenre: Fantasy Action & Adventure, Children's Folk Tales & Myths
From: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A great darkness is coming to the forest. Avelyn and Killian Lorcan are tixies, a race of tiny beings that live simply in a massive, beautiful forest. But unbeknownst to the tixies, an ancient evil has found them at last.
Separated from their parents, Avelyn and Killian travel across the forest alone, encountering friends and enemies along the way. But when Avelyn recovers an ancient sword of great power, their destinies are forever changed.
★★★★★ "A captivating adventure of courage and destiny." ~Amazon Review
The Keeper of Knowledge
Book 2 of The Tixie ChroniclesGenre: Fantasy Action & Adventure, Children's Folk Tales & Myths
From: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Killian Lorcan doesn’t want to read old scrolls. As a tixie boy of eight summers, all he wants to do is explore the forest floor around his house, fight imaginary monsters, and scare off the occasional spider.
But when Mac, the local Keeper of Knowledge, invites Killian to see his house and read some old scrolls, Killian himself gets caught up in a story of betrayal, violence, and a civilization on the verge of collapse. More importantly, he finds out how his ancient ancestors came to live in the wilds of the forest he calls home.
The Ants of Fire
Book 3 of The Tixie ChroniclesGenre: Fantasy Action & Adventure, Children's Folk Tales & Myths
From: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A couple of days after the defeat of the Vultures of Doom, the peace of the forest is again shattered when an old enemy returns. This time, he attacks the forest with an army of fire-breathing ants that bring chaos and death. The ants scorch everything in their path, leading to a final brutal confrontation with the Woodland Tixies.
"A compelling tale that will shape the landscape of children's literature, thanks to its astute storytelling and graceful prose." ~Feathered Quill
The Lost City
Book 4 of The Tixie ChroniclesGenre: Fantasy Action & Adventure, Children's Folk Tales & Myths
From: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Four summers have flown by since Avelyn and her family won the vicious battle against the Ants of Fire. Now, a mysterious aging sickness is shortening the lives of the tixies.
When shy but determined 16-year-old Avelyn's beloved mother suddenly ages 100 summers before her eyes, Avelyn is paralyzed with sadness. But Killian, her more outgoing little brother, discovers a way to save their mother and the other tixies, leading Avelyn and Killian to make an epic journey across dark and dangerous lands in search of a sacred Magic Dust that is rumored to give creatures long life.
★★★★★ "A well-written thrilling YA fantasy adventure filled with danger, magic, and mystery." ~Goodreads Review
About the Author
Jack Borden lives and writes in the forests of Texas, where he lives with his wife, a few children, two somewhat useful dogs, and a garden that always needs tending. He enjoys long walks in the woods, hanging out with his family, and traveling with his family. He's particularly fond of far West Texas and the Pacific Northwest. Learn more at Jack-Borden.com, and be sure to follow him online:
Spotlight on Teen/YA Fantasy from author Christina Leonard
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Christina Leonard, author of two fantasy and coming-of-age books for Teen/Young Adult readers and booklovers of all ages:
- Farewell: 4.5 stars on Goodreads
- Tragon Moon: 4.33 stars on Goodreads
"Leonard’s storytelling is both compelling and evocative." ~Goodreads Review
Farewell
Genre: Teen & Young Adult Contemporary Fantasy
Available in hardcover, paperback, e-book and audiobook starting at $3.20
Wendy Mitchell is not having the college experience she always thought she would. When she first arrived at Gladstown College, she thought she would make friends and go to parties. But here she is, three and a half years later, with no friends on campus and failing grades.
While cleaning lab supplies for extra credit one afternoon, Wendy noticed the closet door swing open all on its own. She investigates the odd happening, only to find herself locked in the closet as the ground rumbles.
When she steps out of the closet, she finds herself somewhere in the middle of a forest with a bow being pointed directly at her by a strange man dressed like he’s ready for combat. According to him, she has been dropped somewhere on the outskirts of the Farewell Kingdom.
Tragon Moon
Genres: Coming of Age Fantasy, Magical Realism
Available in hardcover, paperback, e-book and audiobook starting at $3.20
Raena and Abby have relied on one another for as long as they can remember. Never knowing their parents and being shuffled through the foster care system, they quickly came to realize they are the only people they can count on. But when Abby doesn’t come home from work one night, Raena is left to take care of her nephew, Jaxon. She believes she has everything under control until her landlord tells her she must pay three months' worth of back rent before the end of the month, or she and Jax will be out on the street.
Then Raena meets King Wade of Maranetta, who invites Raena to work for him and promises to take care of her and Jax in return. Raena accepts, but what she doesn’t know is the world of powers and long-kept secrets that await her around every corner of King Wade’s palace and the deeply rooted connection she has to the family who lives there.
About the Author
Christina Leonard was born and raised in Southern New Jersey, where she lives with her family and four cats. After graduating in 2022 with her masters degree in Publishing from Pace University in New York City, her masters thesis was published in Publishing Research Quarterly. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, including her five nieces and nephews. Learn more at AuthorChristinaLeonard.com and be sure to follow her online:
Spotlight on Randall Silvis: "A masterful storyteller." ~NYT Book Review
"Randall Silvis is a masterful storyteller." ~The New York Times Book Review
Bonus: Aspiring writers and experienced authors alike will appreciate Ten Easy Steps to Becoming a Writer, a no-nonsense book on the art, craft, business, and teaching of creative writing.
The Ryan DeMarco Mystery Series
Five-book seriesFrom $7.17 (Book 1 is free via Kindle Unlimited)
The Ryan DeMarco Mystery Series is a collection of literary and emotionally propulsive thrillers:
Two Days Gone (4.2 stars, 2000+ ratings), Book 1 in the series, is a Hammett Prize Finalist and Amazon #1 Bestseller. What could cause a man to suddenly snap and destroy everything he has built? "A suspenseful, literary thriller that will resonate with readers long after the book is finished." ~Library Journal, Starred Review
Walking the Bones (4.3 stars, 457 ratings): When long-buried secrets come back to the surface, DeMarco is drawn into a case that will demand more of himself than he may want to give. "Silvis smoothly blends moments of exquisite beauty into a sea of darker emotion to create a moving story heavy with the theme of the ‘past is never past.'" ~Publisher’s Weekly
A Long Way Down (4.4 stars,156 ratings): DeMarco and his new love, Jayme, agree to investigate murders that might tie into a cold case from his school days. "Silvis is at it again, striving for a blend of crime story and literature, mutilated bodies and lapidary prose." ~Booklist
No Woods So Dark as These (4.3 stars, 129 ratings): DeMarco and Jayme want nothing more than to live quietly in each other's company. But dreams of a peaceful life are shattered when two bodies are discovered in a smoldering car in the woods. "Poignant and gritty." ~Kate Kessler, bestselling author
When All Light Fails (4.5 stars, 105 ratings): In the final book of the series, DeMarco comes out of retirement to help a nine-year-old girl find her biological father in what might be the most emotionally troubling case DeMarco and Jayme have yet encountered. "A soulful, deeply felt story." ~Kirkus Reviews
The Deepest Black
Genres: Crime Thriller, Mystery, Murder ThrillerFrom $9.99
A crime novel unlike any you've ever read―based on true events. Where does the line blur between fact and fiction? Acclaimed author Randall Silvis is looking for a story―any story to follow up the books of The Ryan DeMarco Mystery Series that catapulted him to success. But when a stranger tips him off about a series of murders in a small Pennsylvania town, Silvis finds himself embroiled in a world of corruption that shatters his sense of reality.
Small Town Crime Series
Genres: Heist Thrillers, Psychological FictionFrom $3.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Only the Rain: Facing bills, a new baby, and a bone-dry bank account, Russell has nothing left to lose. When a good deed leads him to a stash of money, he takes a handful to help his family. But when the criminals he robbed come looking for their dirty money, Russell must choose between saving his daughter or giving the devils their due.
First the Thunder: Three brothers grapple with their lives in decline and stumble upon a shocking secret that, if revealed, would upend their lives. A riveting exploration of the unforgivable secrets that families keep—and the consequences that come from exposing them.
Ten Easy Steps to Becoming a Writer
From $6.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)The Art, Craft, Business, and Teaching of Creative Writing
Silvis pulls no punches in his assessment of creative writing programs, the American educational system in general, and the publishing industry. This is not some slim volume of writing tips; this is 350+ pages of insights and advice based on a successful writer's personal experience.
About the Author
Randall Silvis’s many literary awards include two writing fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts, the prestigious Drue Heinz Literature Prize, a Fulbright Senior Scholar Research Award, six fellowships for his fiction, drama, and screenwriting from the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, and an honorary Doctor of Letters degree awarded for “a sustained career of distinguished literary achievement.” Learn more at RandallSilvis.com, and be sure to follow Randall online:
Spotlight on Red Lines Press: Hard-to-find proletarian literature
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on books from Red Lines Press, a small press that is focused on publishing hard-to-find proletarian literature, defined as "work [that] advances class consciousness" while also being "a bloody good read." The two books featured in today's special edition newsletter—both translations of works by German writer Oskar Maria Graf—certainly fit the bill:
- We Are Prisoners, the autobiography of Oskar Maria Graf
- Anton Sittinger, a "must read" novel for anyone who seeks to understand how and why Adolf Hitler came to power
“He behaves disgracefully and provokes laughter and disbelief, but in so doing, he wins our hearts.” ~Thomas Mann on Oskar Maria Graf
We Are Prisoners
Genres: Autobiography, MemoirPaperback: $15.95
This autobiography of Oskar Maria Graf was first published in 1927. It was his first major work.
Graf's autobiography covers his early youth growing up in the village of Berg by Lake Starnberg, his cruel abuse by his older brother, his escape to Munich, where he worked as a baker, and then to anarchist communes in Switzerland. Graf is drafted into the army, where he reluctantly serves as a horse-groom on the supply trains. He is discharged as mentally unfit, spends a year in an asylum, then returns to Munich, working in a biscuit factory, starting his literary career, and making money on the black market.
We Are Prisoners paints a fascinating picture of bohemian life in Schwabing, the radical politics of the time, and climaxes with the short-lived Bavarian Soviet Republic of 1919. Many of the characters in the novel became well-known artists and writers in Weimar Germany. We Are Prisoners (A Confession) is an honest and blithe personal account of momentous events.
Graf's quirky literary style combines a self-deprecating and anarchic sense of humor, sympathy for the downtrodden, and the Heimat genre of German culture.
★★★★★ "A fascinating insight into Germany from 1900 to 1919." ~Amazon Review
Anton Sittinger
Genres: Literary Fiction, Historical FictionHardcover: $25.00
A "must read" for anyone who seeks to understand how and why Adolf Hitler came to power.
This is the first English translation of the novel written in 1934-5 and first published in German in 1937. It covers the events of the Weimar Republic from the end of the First World War to Hitler’s appointment as Reichskanzler in 1933—all viewed from the point-of-view of a Munich civil servant who retires to the countryside and "does not concern himself with politics."
Oskar Maria Graf provides a uniquely satirical insight into the mindset of the German middle classes. The eponymous antihero does not welcome Hitler, but does nothing to oppose the Nazis either, while his wife, Malwine, actively welcomes and propagandises for the "national" movement.
Anton Sittinger’s drinking pals likewise cover the broad spectrum of attitudes from the local busybody, a Catholic businessman who supports the mainstream bourgeois parties but eventually capitulates, to the enthusiastic and active support of Captain Schlicht, leader of the district SA. Only the Marxist painter Koestler offers resistance, attempting to rally villagers against Nazi terror, ultimately without success.
The Nazi takeover is seen not so much as a coup or "seizure of power," as had been attempted in 1923, but rather a "creeping to power" made possible, and even welcomed, by the ruling class, which had grown impatient with "democratic" politicians failure to quash unrest.
There are thousands upon thousands of Anton Sittingers in every country, even today. Despite its historical setting, the atmosphere may seem all too familiar to the contemporary reader.
About the Publisher
Red Lines Press is dedicated to publishing hard-to-find proletarian literature in English, including translations of previously untranslated and/or out-of-print work, first in German and subsequently other languages. Shorter texts and extracts are published on the Red Lines Press website. Longer works are available via Amazon.com. Learn more about Red Lines Press at redlines.home.blog.
Suspense, Thrills & Romance from author Terri Greening
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Terri Greening, author of thrillers, mysteries, romantic suspense, and historical fiction:
- We Meet Again in Summer - new release!
- The Lady of the Lighthouse
- The Copper Isle Ghostslayer
- Danger Inside the Beltway
★★★★★ "Greening’s skillful writing weaves emotional depth, eerie tension, and unexpected twists." ~Goodreads Review
We Meet Again in Summer
New release! Coming January 20, 2024Genres: Medical Thriller, Medical Romance
E-book: $3.99
Lily Prescott is a romance novelist. She is stunningly lovely, single, and lonely--especially after her breakup with Mitch Jaymison, a handsome, divorced doctor.
When a chance meeting Lily and Mitch together again, they decide to try to overcome their previous problems, even as Lily struggles to put the emotional hurts of the past behind her. Interference from Lily’s billionaire ex-fiancé and nefarious happenings at the hospital near Mitch's home only make matters worse.
Through elegant social occasions in town, sailing dates, and romantic beach walks at the lake, Lily and Mitch pursue their love amidst an overshadowing uncertainty and increasing physical peril as they progress toward a final, challenging reckoning.
The Lady of the Lighthouse
Genres: Historical Thriller, Espionage ThrillerFrom $3.99
"A deftly crafted and fully entertaining World War II thriller." ~Midwest Book Review
This World War II, Great Lakes thriller brings together a Great Lakes shipping captain, a dashing Italian spy, a pirate, and the young woman who loved them all.
Loralei Lancaster, a lonely, pregnant young mother and lighthouse keeper on the Great Lakes, is caught up in a WWII espionage plot while waiting for her shipping-captain husband, Devon, to return from a Great Lakes voyage. When a dashing, Italian spy posing as a down-and-out art dealer and handyman enters her life and seduces her, she must ultimately choose between her passionate love for him and her love for Devon, her family, and her country.
The Copper Isle Ghostslayer
Genres: Suspense, Action, Mystery, ThrillerFrom $3.99
Literary Titan Book Award Winner
When nature photographer and former journalist Layla Devereaux travels to a remote island, she finds it haunted by ghosts. Originally there to solve a murder mystery and free her wrongly accused brother, Layla soon realizes she faces greater dangers than imagined. She turns to local businessman Colton Harding for help, and together, they try to unravel the mystery, even as vengeful spirits aim to thwart their efforts.
As Layla searches for answers, she also grapples with ghosts from her own past failed relationships. But dealing with both the living and dead becomes easier with Colton by her side. To solve the lighthouse murder and secure her brother’s release, Layla must learn who she can trust among the living as well as the dead before the island’s dark secrets claim yet another victim.
Danger Inside the Beltway
Genres: Suspense Action Fiction, WoFrom $3.99
A Washington, DC Thriller.
Tarryn Blue, a young investigative reporter in Washington, DC, becomes the target of a killer when she unknowingly uncovers and writes a controversial article about a major financial fraud. She turns for help to Brock Spencer, an FBI agent looking into the story, and together they work to unravel and solve a crime in a high stakes political world of escalating danger, intrigue, and physical peril.
★★★★★ "A fun, romantic romp with lots of action!" ~Goodreads Review
About the Author
Terri Greening is the award-winning author of four novels.She enjoys yoga, gardening, nature parks, walking, and biking. Learn more at TerriGreening.allauthor.com, and be sure to follow her online:
Spotlight on The Dead Chip Syndicate, a literary thriller set in Macau
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Dead Chip Syndicate, a crime thriller set in Macau by award-winning screenwriter and author Andrew W. Pearson.
When an ex-pat moves to Macao to run his twin brother's Artificial Intelligence company, he falls under the influence of a charismatic casino owner who recruits him to sell a crypto coin to the Chinese elite. But he soon discovers he's the dupe in a huge money-laundering scheme that might be orchestrated by his treacherous twin.
★★★★★ "A captivating blend of crypto, casinos, and culture." ~Amazon Review
The Dead Chip Syndicate
Genres: Crime Thrillers, Cultural Heritage Fiction4.7 stars, 12 ratings
Paperback: $14.66
E-book: $6.99
Offered the chance to run his twin brother's A.I. company, Anthony Wilson ditches his failing screenwriting career to start anew in Macau. The job turns highly lucrative when Anthony's new client, Cash Cheang, a pompadour-topped and Johnny Cash-loving casino operator, hands him a bag full of cold hard Yuan to implement a facial recognition system in his casino.
Hearing about Anthony's past life as a screenwriter, Cash offers him another job—ghostwriting a biography about the casino mogul's life, rising from the mean streets of Macau to become one of the city's most notorious and successful businessmen. Anthony accepts the job while also agreeing to help Cash sell his latest scheme, a cryptocoin aimed at raising funds for a floating casino in Macau.
As Anthony learns more about Cash's life, he realizes the biography is filled with dangerous secrets about the Chinese elite, secrets these powerful people would rather see buried for good. "You always cheat the ones closest to you," warns an old Chinese proverb...words that ring true as Anthony enters a playground more surreal and depraved than decadent Hollywood. More deadly, too, as Anthony soon discovers he's the dupe in a huge Chinese money-laundering scheme that might be orchestrated by his treacherous twin.
Praise for The Dead Chip Syndicate
"Pearson’s prose is savvy and brisk but with sharp edges, and the novel will both delight and disgust readers fascinated with wealth and power run amok." ~BookLife
"Not just an eye-opening book and an utterly absorbing insight into Chinese culture, but a commanding thriller and one that does not put a foot wrong." ~NetGalley Review
About the Author
Andrew Pearson was born in Pakistan, grew up in Singapore, and was educated at boarding schools in both England and America. With a degree in psychology from UCLA, Pearson has had a varied career in IT, marketing, mobile technology, social media, esports, and entertainment. Along the way, Pearson has authored 17 books and optioned and adapted multiple novels into screenplays, including an award-winning adaptation of The Dead Chip Syndicate. Learn more at andrewwpearson.com, and be sure to follow Andrew Pearson online:
Spotlight on The Year of Rejection by Hope Mills
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Year of Rejection, an unflinchingly honest memoir from Lithuanian-Irish writer Hope Mills.
The Year of Rejection
Genre: MemoirPaperback: $12.56
E-book: From $4.99
A new voice debuts with an unflinchingly honest memoir: the story of a desperate return to the self after decades of depression.
Hope Mills is an immigrant overachiever until an unexpected eviction leaves her homeless. She descends into psychosis for the next year, bleeding depression onto the corners of her sociology textbooks. Hope digs into atypical anorexia and avoidant attachment, deflating her passions into passive suicide. But it didn't start with the eviction.
Hope Mills is twelve years old when she moves from Ireland to Lithuania. In one swoop, she loses her father, brother, and Catholic schoolgirl identity, landing in a town of 900 people where everyone knows her name. She battles a generational, cultural, and language barrier at home and at school, quickly collapsing into a hostile teenager. On this shaky foundation, Hope attempts suicide twice in six years. But when she graduates, she returns to Ireland to begin her life. By her third year of college, Hope seems to have everything figured out—until her new world crumbles beneath her feet.
About the Author
Dovilė Milišauskaitė, better known by her pen name, Hope Mills, is a Lithuanian-Irish writer. Her work explores mental health, grief, and coming-of-age. Sometimes it's fictional, sometimes it's not. Hope graduated from University College Dublin, Ireland's largest university, with a BSc in Sociology, Politics & International Relations in 2023. She splits her time between Dublin and Ignalina. Learn more by following her online:
Spotlight on Kapardi, an environment thriller set in the Himalayan Mountains
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Kapardi from author Kolhapur Ramamurthy. Read on to learn more about this environmental thriller set in the Himalayan Mountains.
Kapardi
New release: December 2024Genre: Suspense/Thriller
4.5 stars on Goodreads
Paperback: $16.00
E-book: From $3.00 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A spine-chilling tale set in a realm where ancient Indian philosophy intersects with modern science.
Kapardi is a thrilling narrative centered around environmental themes. Pakistan's premier intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), is secretly searching the Himalayan Mountains for an antediluvian temple that is believed to hold the key to environmental preservation. A group known as The Sarvagni Crusade reawakens to oppose the ISI in the search for the temple, and a game of death ensues.
A young officer of India's top investigative agency, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), gets caught up in the game, and struggles to reconcile the events unfolding around her in a story that delves into ancient Indian worships and Hymns envisioned by the great sages of the land for the purpose of safeguarding the environment.
About the Author
Kolhapur Ramamurthy was born in 1968 in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, India. He has authored two books, Divya Dhatri and Kapardi in Telugu language. He has a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, and is currently working in Vijay Tanks & Vessels (P) Ltd. as Vice President (Engg. Services). Learn more at RamaCliffhangers.com, and follow Kolhapur on Facebook.
Spotlight on Fantasy & Paranormal Romance from VJ Silvey
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of VJ Silvey, author of fantasy and paranormal romance.
VJ's characters include wolf shifters, witches, vampires, fae, kickass heroines, and "a few alphaholes." You'll also find plenty of heat in the romance storylines, realistic adult themes, violence, betrayal, and humor.
Read on for an introduction to VJ's work via three of her novels:
- Cursed by Fate: Between Ruin and Salvation Series Book 1
- Wild in Spirit: Between Fear and Obsession Book 1
- Wrecked by Chance: A Second Chance Shifter Romance
Cursed by Fate
Book 1 of the Between Ruin and Salvation SeriesGenre: Paranormal Romance
4.4 stars, 65 ratings
Paperback: $9.99
E-book: FREE
Abandoned by her parents. Forced to betray her mate. Pushed to battle her vicious Alpha.
Stranded at ten years old with no memory of her childhood, Ava spent the past ten years training to be a fierce fighter whose skills rival any wolf shifter in the pack.
Her idyllic life is thrown into chaos when she realizes her power-hungry Alpha intends to overthrow the Supernatural Council, making himself the Wolf King. But her uncle’s secrets stand in the way, and they are in danger of discovery.
When the Alpha’s son, Derek, shows up for private lessons, her world is shaken by the threat his presence poses and his obsessive pursuit of her. Struggling between her inexplicable attraction to him and her fear of losing everything, she feels cursed to lose her heart, as well as her life.
Can she resist Derek’s charms and keep their secrets safe, or will she be able to turn him against his own father?
★★★★★ "Fantasy with a dash of romance and a hefty dose of intrigue." ~Goodreads Review
Wild in Spirit
Book 1 of the Between Fear and Obsession SeriesGenre: Paranormal Romance
4.3 stars, 25 ratings
Paperback: $12.99
E-book: $4.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Darling party girl of the wolf shifter world, Bailey Easton's fun-loving ways disguise a handful of secrets that no one would suspect.
While most wolf shifters go out on the mating tour excited to find their fated mates, Bailey wears a scent-disguising necklace designed to keep her hidden. She has no desire for a mate or even to live the pack life. Not only does she secretly run the supernatural world's news channel, but she has bigger and better plans beyond what the wolf and witch community can offer.
Between fear of being trapped in a life she would hate and an obsessive stalker, Bailey finds that she doesn’t even understand what she truly wants, especially when she's forced to meet her mate and break his heart. Will she cave to her own instincts or resist beyond the expectations for every shifter female?
★★★★★ "Great shifter romance." ~Amazon Review
Wrecked by Chance
New release: December 31, 2024Genre: Romantic Fantasy
Paperback: $12.99
E-book: $0.99
What happens when your second chance turns into your greatest fear?
Bold, confident, and beautiful, Dina Ryder looks like she has her whole life together. Daughter of a prominent Minnesota Alpha, a well-trained fighter, and an intuitive and aggressive businesswoman, she’s spent years making a name for herself in the supernatural world.
But she’s also 28 years old, unmated, and considered a pack burden by wolf shifter standards—the firstborn passed over for the son. Despite everything, she’s just a female novelty, a prize to be won, and nothing more. After ten unsuccessful years looking for her fated mate and for her place in life, the dormant fears of inadequacy begin to overwhelm her, convincing her she’ll never find happiness or the life she’s dreamed of...until she meets him.
But Alpha Morris shoulders his own burden, a secret passed from generation to generation in his pack. One that will strip Dina of every freedom, of everything she’s ever worked for…and one that will endanger her very life.
★★★★★ "Vampire attacks, two kidnappings, an unexpected fated mate twist, and more than enough spice to fuel the suspense and anticipation." ~Goodreads Review
About the Author
VJ Silvey writes about wolf shifters, witches, vampires and fae. With kickass heroines, a few alphaholes to get in line, and plenty of shenanigans, you’ll never predict what’s coming next in her stories. Between the humor, the drama, and the romance, her books will leave you wanting more. A Texas native, who loves to travel, she sees invisible worlds in every destination. English teacher by day, author by night, VJ sneaks in as much reading and writing as possible after her two toddlers go to bed. Learn more at VioletJeanWrites.com; sign up for her newsletter for freebies, updates, and upcoming releases; and be sure to follow her online:
Spotlight on the Shock Pepper epic sci-fi/fantasy series
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Shock Pepper: Part 1 by Blox Widdle Manor, the first book of the new Shock Pepper epic sci-fi/fantasy series.
"I've always been a big fan of stories that intertwine and characters that cross paths throughout the story, and this book is going to give you just that." ~Annalisereads, TikTok Reviewer
Shock Pepper: Part 1
New release: December 2024Book 1 in the Shock Pepper Series
Genre: Epic Sci-Fi/Fantasy
E-book price: $0.99
The Shock Pepper realm is a multiverse where there exists a planet very much like our own earth, full of corruption, deceit, and greed, and where storylines intertwine across space and time and across different universes.
Part 1 is set in the Shock Pepper realm and includes mind-bending twists and gray characters. The first part of this series sets the base for how the storylines intertwine and clash, spreading across time and universes.
The multiple storylines of Shock Pepper
- Storyline1: Sam is jobless and leads a sad life. His friend Adrian introduces him to a witch, who provides a magic potion that can put Sam to sleep for ten years. Sam drinks it to escape the tough times. He wakes up in a hospital three months later with a pregnant woman by his side who claims to be his wife and tells Sam that he had a head injury that makes him hallucinate about the witch.
- Storyline 2: Just when Priya is content with life, her loving husband, and a darling child, tragedy strikes. Between her encounter with the witch and an investigation leading into murky part of the world, things become darker every day.
- Storyline 3: Brianna loves Sam but her life goes in a turmoil when something horrible happens. And a baby enters her life. She tries to find what the mysterious yet powerful Miss Revorg and Adrian are up to. She overhears a conversation that she shouldn't have.
- Storyline 4: Laborers and dumpster workers go into a minimum wage protest, demanding a rise in pay. The one-dollar protests kickstart a revolution, something that breaks into a countrywide moment. But things are not what they seem.
- Storyline 5: Jordan Ganathy takes a Witch's help to get back his lost leg. The Witch gives him a deal that he cannot resist. But the deal has catches.
- Storyline 6: Jeff, a bumbling but lovable policeman, has a schizophrenic wife and nasty colleagues. Dead bodies show up randomly in the village. And then comes the monster behind the marsh.
About the Author
Special Holiday Offer: 12 FREE Holiday Romance Novels!
Get all 12 books of the Sweet Christmas Kisses Series FREE now through December 30!
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the Sweet Christmas Kisses Series and a very special deal:
ALL 12 STANDALONE BOOKS OF THE SERIES ARE AVAILABLE AS FREE DOWNLOADS NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 30!
Maybe you got a new e-reader, tablet, or smart phone for Christmas and are looking for something new to read. Maybe you love romance novels. Maybe you have a soft spot for holiday stories. Or maybe you just like FREE stuff! Whatever the case may be, don't pass up this great opportunity. Click below so you can download all 12 books for yourself—and be sure to tell your friends about this great deal, too!
Jingle Bells Rock & Roll by Evie Sterling
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Christmas, Military Romance, Holiday Romance
4.5 stars, 267 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
In Blue Flag, New York, the jingle bells aren't the only things rocking and rolling.
As a rock star topping the charts, I'm used to my life being a non-stop show. But this Christmas, I'm trading stadium lights for twinkling stars in my hometown of Blue Flag, New York. My parents' quaint mountain bed and breakfast is a far cry from the Hollywood hills, but it's exactly the escape I need. Accompanying me are two people who keep my world spinning: Bryn, my best friend and personal assistant, and her twin brother, Kade—a former Navy SEAL who now serves as my bodyguard and who has had my heart racing since our teen years. With a winter storm outside and emotions swirling inside, this Christmas is shaping up to be anything but silent.
A Doctor's Snowed in Christmas Wish by Daisy Flynn
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Medical Romance, Clean & Wholesome Romance, Christmas Holiday Romance
4.3 stars, 197 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
A Clean, Age-Gap Holiday Romance
I had a a reputation as one of NYC’s top surgeons. Then a patient died. I was exonerated of any wrong-doing, but depressed and disillusioned afterwards. A tranquil island off the coast beckons, and I fall for a beautiful, compassionate woman during a snowstorm. She’s built a simple life in a community she loves and can’t leave. Now I have a life-changing decision to make: Go back to my million-dollar practice in NYC, or follow my heart?
Love Rekindled at Evergreen Inn by Willa Lyons
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Clean & Wholesome Romance, Christmas Romance
4.3 stars, 131 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
A Small Town Parent Trap Romance
Our daughter orchestrates a parent trap, hoping for a Christmas miracle. He’s my first love, my husband, my heartbreak. Jimmy's salt-and-pepper hair and rugged face still make my knees go weak. But memories of the fire that broke our marriage burn between us like dying embers. The imminent birth of our first grandchild and the resurrection of my parents' bakery brings us back together. Now, we're snowed in at Evergreen Inn, and forced to confront our past. As we frost cookies side-by-side, old flames threaten to reignite. This Christmas reunion could save our family's legacy or destroy it forever.
Stuck With My Christmas Crush by Francesca Spencer
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Clean & Wholesome Romance, Christmas Romance
4.4 stars, 210 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
A Sweet, Opposites-Attract Romantic Comedy
I’m dressed as a Christmas fairy. My car is broken. My phone is dead. I get rescued by a bossy grump, and as a storm closes in, I hunker down with Jason, the handsome capable ex-military, and Rocko, his enormous dog. At first, Jason resents my presence. Then the power goes out, and we’re left with nothing but a wood-burner and candles. Jason’s frosty exterior melts away in the soft warm glow. He even forgets to be annoyed about the trail of pink glitter I’ve left in his room. Maybe I shouldn’t admit that I’m having the best time in this snowed-in disaster. I know what I want for Christmas. I wonder if Jason wants it, too.
A Not So Merry Ex-Mas by Abby Greyson
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Christmas Romance
4.5 stars, 252 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
A Sweet, Second-Chance, Holiday Romantic Comedy
For years I've been dreaming of a real Christmas back home. Tree trimming, decorating, Christmas carols. What I wasn't expecting was Cole. Tall, broad shoulders, smile to die for, dreamy green eyes, and a heart of gold. We had planned out every detail of our lives together, including his dream of becoming a major league pitcher. When my gran got sick and I needed to take care of her, I gave him the push he needed, breaking my heart, and his, in the process. A decade and a divorce later, I'm starting over, beginning with Christmas at my best friend’s cabin…and the man I’ve done everything to leave behind. Is Christmas past here to haunt me, or to bring a future I stopped letting myself dream of?
A Christmas Call of Duty by Ava Wakefield
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Christmas Holiday Romance, Military Romance, Small Town Romance
4.6 stars, 203 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
A Sweet, Small-Town Military Romance
When I asked Santa for a Christmas miracle, dropping my ex’s hunky brother on my doorstep wasn’t exactly what I had in mind. After my last breakup, I swore off dating military men once and for all. So when a dreamy K-9 handler for the U.S. Army came into my clinic with an injured dog and bedroom eyes, you better believe I was sending him packing as soon as my work was done. But now we're stuck together in a blizzard. Colt Ralston is the reason I missed spending Christmas Eve with my family, but now that our local animal shelter is in trouble, avoiding him is easier said than done. Colt’s mission is clear: Help save the shelter and infiltrate the fortress around my heart.
Finding Me in The Storm by Hazel Belle
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Christmas Holiday Romance, Clean and Wholesome Romance
4.6 stars, 189 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
A Small-Town Holiday Clean Romance
After finishing my residency, I needed a restful escape. But a snowstorm leaves me stranded at a ski lodge. Nate, the laid-back owner of the lodge and my best friend’s older brother, is nothing like I anticipated—he’s fun, adventurous, and charming in a way that contrasts my meticulous, all-business attitude. Snowed in together, Nate introduces me to the warmth of spontaneity, festive cheer, and maybe even a sprinkle of Christmas love. Our forced proximity kindles an unexpected spark, revealing that our different worlds might just be a perfect holiday match. Can I let Nate show me how to savor the simple joys of life. Or will my career ambitions keep us from celebrating a future together?
Snowbound With My Grumpy Ex by Lily Waters
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Holiday Romance, Men, Women & Relationships Humor
4.6 stars, 124 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
One blizzard. One cozy guesthouse. One ridiculously oversized Santa sleigh.
When my car skids off the road in the middle of a snowstorm, I'm forced to seek shelter in Devon's family guesthouse. Now I'm decking the halls with the guy who broke my heart. My mission? Transform this dusty cabin into a winter wonderland before I lose the biggest break of my design career. And try not to strangle him with tinsel in the process. But with every ornament hung and every unexpected moment of kindness, something's melting, and it's not just the icicles. So, Santa, if you're listening, I don't need presents this year. Just get me out of here before I do something crazy...like fall for this snow-dusted heartbreaker all over again.
Sleighed by the Farmer's Daughter by Deanna Lilly
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Holiday Fiction, Christmas Romance
4.7 stars, 165 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
He thought his holidays were ruined until he was rescued by an elf in Santa’s sleigh.
Seth hasn’t been home for Christmas in more than a decade, but now his niece and sister-in-law demand his presence. Last-minute complications at the factory mean driving hours through a snowstorm. One wrong turn, and he finds himself stranded on a farm in the middle of nowhere. Mackenzie is overwhelmed running Santa’s village, and this blizzard isn’t helping. The last thing she needs is an unexpected guest. With her family out of town, taking in a tall, handsome stranger may not be wise, but she can’t let him freeze to death. Can Seth help Mackenzie save Christmas for the small town of Cloverdale before he loses his heart and unwraps a love he never thought he wanted?
Cabin Fever With My First Flame by Madison Love
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Women's Christian Fiction, Women's Romance Fiction, Christmas Romance
4.7 stars, 200 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
A Sweet, Second-Chance, Christian Holiday RomCom
After my divorce, I got the better end of the deal with three sassy daughters, my food truck, and what was left in the bank account—enough for a fresh start and three tanks of gas. The problem is, I needed four. Being stranded on the side of the road isn't the end of the world—unless it's during a blizzard and we're rescued by the one person I never wanted to see again: Finn Hollister, a.k.a. my first love. Stuck in a cabin with Finn and kids ready to play matchmaker was not how I planned to spend the holidays. When it comes time to make our Christmas wish lists, Finn asks for one thing. I just don't know if I can afford to give it to him.
Faking It with My Bossy Ex by Leah Blair
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Clean and Wholesome Romance, Christmas Holiday Romance
4.7 stars, 143 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
My gorgeous ex is now my boss and he wants to date me again.
Working under my handsome ex is a holiday nightmare. One minute he's a bossy jerk, and the next his gaze lingers a little too long. When a snowstorm traps us in the town’s iconic romantic inn, he wants us to fake being a couple to snag the last room that’s reserved for lovebirds only. He even insists we enter the Christmas Couples Contest. I came for work, not to swoon over the fact he still carries a photo of us in his wallet. I should remember how he dumped me years ago. But when the kisses under the mistletoe feel too right to be wrong, I think he may be faking his way into a second chance…
A Holly Jolly Mix Up by Bella Greene
Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses SeriesGenres: Police Romance, Clean and Wholesome Romance, Holiday Romance
4.6 stars, 146 ratings
Paperback: $10.99
E-book: FREE
When life gives me a snowstorm and a double-booked rental, I find a Christmas miracle in the form of a sassy journalist.
Jane is as sharp as the snowflakes falling outside. She’s less-than-thrilled about being stuck with a detective. But with every day we’re snowed in, her playful banter warms the coldest nights. And I discover a side of her that’s as sweet as sugar cookies. Little does she know, unraveling the mystery of her heart might be the most intriguing case of all. Whether this is a holiday spark or the start of something lasting, my heart's ready for the greatest gift of all—love.
Spotlight on author Mark Fuller Dillon
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of author Mark Fuller Dillon, including four FREE works of horror, science fiction, and fantasy.
"Mark Fuller Dillon is an original talent, whose precise use of language, obliquely disturbing imagery and meticulous world building single him out." ~Peter Tennant, Black Static #35
At First, You Hear the Silence
Genre: Dark Fantasy, Science Fiction4.40 stars on Smashwords
E-book price: FREE
A dark modern fantasy, suitable for Young Adult to Adult readers.
At thirteen, Philippe can see his father trapped in a world of secrets and silence, a world with no place for honesty or courage. But when the walls of that world fall apart, and something from outside breaks in, the silence becomes a warning shout...and Philippe will be tested in ways his father could never imagine.
"An enthralling encounter with mysteries from beyond." ~Jeffrey Thomas, author of Punktown
"A new twist on what used to be called science fantasy, it strikes a great balance between horror, sf, and action writing." ~David Longhorn, editor of Supernatural Tales
In a Season of Dead Weather
Genre: Horror, Fantasy, Short Stories4.13 stars on Smashwords
E-book price: FREE
Short stories based on dreams and nightmares. (May be too intense for young readers.)
The weird, the uncanny, the strange: these are the local conditions of dead weather.
In a season of dead weather, the mind clutches at reality; but what does it find instead? Madness, or monsters? Ghosts, or things more terrible than ghosts? Illusions, or invasions? Dreams, or the darkness at the end of all nightmares? One thing is clear: these are tales that echoes tell in a season of dead weather...of things barely glimpsed in the moonrise...of places perfectly normal by day but haunted by the light of winter stars.
Doorways Unforeseen
Genre: Literary Fiction, Horror, FantasyNew release: October 2024
E-book price: FREE
Doorways to nightmares in prose and verse.
In Doorways Unforeseen, doorways lead to nightmares...from a bone-white church in a dead town of the captured and collected, to a barren farm where floating figures mob and kill, to a cedar forest where a creature from the sky reaches out to shatter souls. In prose and verse, these horror stories and nightmares wait beyond the mind's doorways unforeseen.
All Roads Lead to Winter
Genre: Science Fiction, Erotica4.11 stars on Smashwords
E-book price: FREE
An erotic science fiction novella.
The aliens are here, and now our lives are different: no wars, no hunger, no exploitation. For political prisoner Thomas Bridge, there can be a strange new love; for the alien delegate Avdryana, there can be companionship in a world that she finds crowded and foreign. But even with hope for the future, can there be an escape from the stifling ideas and expectations of the past?
At the heart of this story are parallel worlds, politics, the grip of memory, the strength and generosity of women, the pain of loss, the mystery of love...and all the roads that lead to winter.
Ice & Autumn Glass
Genre: PoetryPaperback: From $14.40
Poetry from Mark Fuller Dillon.
"Mark Dillon marries the Jacobean line and gothic imagery to a colloquial, thoroughly modern, goth-punk demotic, a frenzied coupling that yields up a species of frictive, delirious lyricism, a monstrous infant both old and new." ~Richard Calder, author of Dead Girls and Babylon
"These poems have strong bones, but they also have heart. They have a soul that reveals much about the poet and even more about ourselves." ~Jason E. Rolfe, author of Clocks
"Elegantly, meticulously constructed...accessible and acutely felt." ~Jeffrey Thomas, author of Haunted Worlds and Punktown
About the Author
Spotlight on the Rinyv Series: Fantasy for Young Adults
Spotlight on the Rinyv Fantasy Series for YA Readers!
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the Rinyv Series of fantasy books for young adults from author Duyu Wander.
★★★★★ "Imaginative dark/horror fantasy suitable for YA/late teens, as well as adults." ~Amazon Review
★★★★★ "If you enjoy anime, horror, sci-fi, and apocalyptic stories, this is the book for you." ~Goodreads Review
Arrival of The Moon Hare
Book 1 of the Rinyv SeriesGenre: Teen & Young Adult Fantasy
4.3 stars, 84 ratings
From $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Fear hinders one's potential.
A sinister presence delights in Rinyv's torment, relentlessly pursuing and killing her after she turns fifteen. Now, having encountered death four times already, the girl is living her fifth life hoping to alter her fate and stop the endless cycle of suffering.
As the terrifying age of fifteen approaches and chaotic events lead people down the path of despair, Rinyv can't help but do everything in her power to overcome her trauma and grow stronger.
As another death draws near, Rinyv appears to hold the key to saving not only herself but all of mankind. Armed with the knowledge of her past lives, continuous training, and a giant pair of scissors found on holy ground, she is no longer a powerless, naive young girl.
On a Grim Adventure
Book 2 of the Rinyv SeriesGenre: Teen & Young Adult Fantasy
4.8 stars, 20 ratings
From $3.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Embrace your demons to thrive.
With Earth under invasion and no home to return to, Rinyv seeks refuge with her childhood friend, Minato Herman. Grateful for the Hermans' hospitality, she becomes their guardian, shielding them from the horrors outside.
As weeks pass without help arriving, hope dwindles and despair tightens its grip. To make matters worse, a terrifying creature obliterates their sanctuary one night, thrusting Rinyv and Minato into a world filled with dangers.
Everything spirals out of control when their bond starts to fracture, and now the girl finds herself compelled to heed the moontarian weapon's call—revive your darkest demon: Annette Valmar.
Remote Island Prison
Book 3 of the Rinyv SeriesGenre: Teen & Young Adult Fantasy
New release: December 15, 2024
From $5.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Yesterday's wrath is tomorrow's strength.
After defeating one of El-Bona's strongest lackeys, Rinyv wakes up on the remote island she and her friends had been searching for. But instead of finding her comrades, she is trapped in a brutal prison where mutants endure relentless training under a cruel regime.
As Rinyv navigates this harsh new reality, a monstrous threat rises from the sea, ready to annihilate everyone on the island. The aliens also close in, determined to capture their queen—and this time, they’ll stop at nothing.
With time running out and danger at every turn, the girl must harness all her strength to survive.
About the Author
Free e-book: Stalin's Army of Apes
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on a FREE e-book: Stalin's Army of Apes, a science-fiction/alternate-history novel based on actual events that asks the question, "What if Stalin's deadliest weapon wasn't nuclear, but genetic?"
★★★★★ "A crazy mashup of sci-fi, thriller and mystery." ~Goodreads Review
Stalin's Army of Apes
Genre: Alternative History, Mystery, Science Fiction4.1 stars, 74 ratings
Paperback: $11.99
E-book: FREE
What if Stalin's deadliest weapon wasn't nuclear, but genetic?
In the frozen wastelands of Siberia lies a secret that turns the Cold War into a blood race. While the world watches for missiles, Stalin and ruthless scientist Ilya Ivanov hunt for something far more dangerous—the power to create Humanzees—monsters engineered for destruction.
Professor Benjamin Fioretti's groundbreaking ape research is about to win him a Nobel Prize. But when his work catches the CIA's attention, he's dragged into Russia's darkest secrets. There, he uncovers the savage truth—Stalin and Ivanov are using his own research to breed an army of super soldiers.
Based on the true events of disturbing genetic experiments conducted by Stalin's chief scientist, Ilya Ivanov, in the 20th century, Stalin's Army of Apes follows one man's descent into a nightmare where loyalty crumbles and nothing is what it seems. As Benjamin races to stop his creation from being unleashed, he must face an impossible question: In a world where science and power collide, how far is too far?
About the Author
Itamar Eyal Friedman is the author of Stalin's Army of Apes, a thought-provoking novel that blends historical events with speculative fiction. The story explores the terrifying intersection of scientific ambition and political power through the lens of Stalin's secret hybridization experiments.Friedman's journey began in 2010 when, while researching for a scientific magazine article, he uncovered the disturbing true story of Josef Stalin and his scientist Ilya Ivanov's attempts at human-ape hybridization. This historical foundation sparked a deeper exploration into questions of human nature, free will, and scientific ethics. Learn more at StalinsArmyofApes.com.
Freedom Fleet Series Launch & Giveaway from Daniel Arenson
Freedom Fleet Series Launch & Giveaway!
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the release of Freedom Fleet, a new science fiction series from best-selling author Daniel Arenson that asks, "What if World War II had been fought in space?"
To celebrate the launch, the author is giving away a commemorative coin. Forged from an ounce of pure silver, the coin features aliens and the message, "Invasion is Here." This unique coin is perfect for sci-fi fans or collectors of precious metals.
Freedom Fleet
Book 1 of the new Freedom Fleet SeriesGenre: Science Fiction
New Release: December 17, 2024
From $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
What if World War II had been fought in space?
In 1944, a secret Nazi experiment split the universe in two. In our universe, we won. Hitler died. Freedom prevailed. But in a parallel universe, the Nazis discovered the atom bomb first...and conquered the world. The light of freedom perished, and the Nazi shadow spread across Earth, the solar system, and the stars.
In 2207, a portal opens between the two universes. One universe of freedom. One of tyranny. And through this portal flies the Weltraumwaffe, the space fleet of the Third Reich.
James King was enjoying his retirement. He once commanded the Freedom Fleet, an armada of starships tasked with defending Earth. In his fifty years of service, Admiral King fought many battles. But he never faced anything like this.
He is old. Tired. Battle-worn. But he must don the uniform again. He must lead the Freedom Fleet once more. Or the shadows of our past will swallow us all.
WWII rages again. This time in space. The Freedom Fleet will face off against the Weltraumwaffe. Freedom or tyranny—only one can win.
Bonus Offer: Three Free Novels!
Join the Everrealms and receive three free fantasy and science fiction novels: Requiem's Song, Moth, and Alien Hunters. This "series starters" bundle includes 1000 pages + hours of entertainment.
Be sure to also join Daniel's Everrealms Facebook Group.
About the Author
MINTARI — Dinosaurs. Majestic giants. They've captured our imagination for generations. On planet Mintari, they live again.
EARTHRISE — They came from deep space. They came to destroy us. But we will fight back! Start reading with Earth Alone, the first novel.
STARSHIP FREEDOM — The starship Freedom is just a museum ship... until the aliens attack.
REQUIEM — An ancient kingdom whose people can grow wings and scales, breathe fire, and take flight as dragons. Start reading with Requiem's Song.
KINGDOMS OF SAND — Enter a world of sand and splendor, a world where gladiators battle in the arena, where legionaries and barbarians fight for glory, and where empires rise and fall. Start reading with Kings of Ruin.
MOTH — Discover Moth, a world torn between day and night--its one half drenched in eternal daylight, the other cloaked in endless darkness.
To learn more, visit DanielArenson.com.
Spotlight on Son Ward, Teen & YA Fantasy from author E.A. Loghry
★★★★★ "Not your typical plot. Reads more like historical fiction. Bonus: no romance! ~Amazon Review
Son Ward
New release: November 2024Genre: Teen & Young Adult Coming-of-Age Fantasy
Paperback: From $14.99
E-book: $7.99
In a quiet valley kingdom untouched by war and strife, King’s falconer Shain becomes the unexpected choice for Son Ward, the heir to the throne. Holim, the King’s nephew, full of jealousy and wounded pride, strongly opposes the decision.
As Shain wrestles with his new calling and the responsibility it entails, he must choose whether to become the man the King sees in him or give in to his own doubts and insecurities.
Will Shain rise to his King’s call and prove himself as the kingdom’s leader, or will Holim’s schemes succeed in derailing his path to the throne?
About the Author
E.A. Loghry grew up as an avid reader, and the stories she read illustrated many important truths about life and her place in the world. Her passion is to share those truths in her own stories, and her hope is that her writing will change lives just as the stories she read changed hers. When she isn’t working as an aircraft mechanic in Dallas, Texas, she enjoys painting, writing, and reading. Son Ward is her debut novel, and she hopes you will enjoy reading as much as she enjoyed writing it. Learn more at ealoghry.wordpress.com.
Spotlight on The Women Unveiled Series from Karen Martin
★★★★★ "Martin masterfully intertwines history and fantasy, creating a narrative rich in detail and imagination." ~Literary Titan
Dancing the Labyrinth
Part of The Women Unveiled SeriesGenres: Mythology, Classic Literature & Fiction, Women's Historical Fiction
Paperback: From $13.94
E-book: $4.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A tale of a young woman's quest for understanding, blending the echoes of the past with the promise of a brighter, more empowered future.
Cressida is young. Pregnant. Alone. Her life takes a turn when she stumbles into a cave full of paintings from an ancient matriarchal society. She befriends Angela, and together they work on deciphering the meaning behind the images.
This dual-time novel blends past and present, myth and reality, feeling and concrete experience, making for a highly unique read.
Follow the journey of Cressida, a damaged heroine who navigates the intricate maze of life, unravelling mysteries and discovering her inner strength.
Praise for Dancing the Labyrinth
★★★★★ "Martin's dreamy, esoteric book of female empowerment, maternal love, and overcoming childhood wounds, is dark, breathtaking, painful, and lovely, all at once." ~BookLife/Publishers Weekly
★★★★★ "A powerful and profound celebration of women's resilience, courage and indomitability." ~Dean Kalimniou, Neos Kosmos
★★★★★ "Storytelling that is not just strong but fascinating." ~Jane Riley, The Book Commentary
Delphi
New release: October 2024Part of The Women Unveiled Series
Genres: Mythology, Dysfunctional Relationships
Paperback: From $16.73
E-book: $9.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
In this sequel to Dancing the Labyrinth, venture into a world where a woman's foresight and intellect shape destinies, as Cressida challenges the status quo of both her past and future.
Four years after Cressida sought refuge in a timeless Minoan cave, the appearance of an unknown aunt spirals her into chaos. Childhood wounds resurface, compelling Cressida toward a crucial decision. Will she trade her newfound life for love and financial security? Inspired by dreams, she travels to Delphi seeking counsel from the Oracle, unaware of her pivotal role to save humanity from catastrophic misery.
With a rich tapestry of snakes and prophetic visions, and a captivating heroine in search of her own truth, Delphi offers a spellbinding exploration of the human spirit. Prepare to be swept away by a story that seamlessly weaves the threads of ancient lore with a young woman's unyielding quest for understanding.
Praise for Delphi
★★★★★ "A celebration of myth and self-discovery, offering a rewarding experience filled with beauty, complexity, and wonder." ~Literary Titan
★★★★★ "A sophisticated, nuanced and often disconcerting exploration of trauma and how this manifests itself within a quest for self-identity." ~Dean Kalimniou, Neos Kosmos
★★★★★ "Full of feminine power." ~Philip Chrysopoulos, Greek Reporter
About the Author
Karen Martin is an award-winning Australian playwright, theatre director, and author living in regional Victoria, Australia. She ran away with the Women's Circus, created plays in prisons, and wrote theatre that strived for transformation. She won awards for her work, received funding to travel to write in-situ, and learned to listen as the muses whispered in her ear. The books of The Women Unveiled Series can be read separately but are united by a distinctive feminine narrative exploring societal boundaries. The series blends Greek mythology, history, and imagination in the telling of (almost true) stories.
Learn more at KazJoyPress.com, sign up for email updates, and be sure to follow Karen and KazJoyPress online:
Spotlight on Creative Manifesting & the Law of Attraction Series
Creative Manifesting: 11 Laws of Manifestation to Amplify Your Intuition and Inner Genius
Book 8 of 8 in the Law of Attraction SeriesGenres: New Age Dreams, Spiritual Gifts, Creativity Self-Help
New release: November 11, 2024
Current #1 Bestseller in New Age Dreams
5.0 stars, 30 ratings
Paperback: $9.99
E-book: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Awaken your inner genius and creative potential—even if you feel blocked or doubtful of your talents.
Are you tired of seeing your ideas die before they ever have a chance to shine? You have the talent, the vision, the drive…but something always seems to hold you back?
Here’s the hard truth: Most creatives today only tap into a fraction of their potential. The education system trained us to fit molds, follow the rules, and avoid risk, leaving our genius locked away. However, your mind holds access to an endless supply of creative potential. Everyone has access to a divine intelligence capable of attracting opportunities for creativity, connection, and abundance.
Imagine waking up every morning with an unstoppable flow of creative energy, where ideas come to you effortlessly, and your art, business, or brand finally gains the recognition it deserves. This reality is within your reach, but it requires you to unlock the power of multi-dimensional thinking—to expand your perception, see beyond the obvious, and tap into the creative flow that leads to groundbreaking ideas.
Inside Creative Manifesting, you’ll discover:
- A creative “hack” to awaken your inner genius and tap into a limitless reservoir of creative potential.
- How to block out external opinions that cloud your intuition.
- Secrets to unlocking mental flexibility.
- How to access ideas buried deep in your subconscious.
- A guide to maximizing your creative output.
- And much more.
Even if you’ve been rejected in the past or feel doubtful of your abilities, this guide will show you that it’s not about working harder—it’s about thinking differently.
Focused Manifesting: 11 Laws of Manifestation to Master Your Mind and Attention
Book 7 of 8 in the Law of Attraction SeriesGenres: Journaling, Spiritual Self-Help, Personal Transformation
4.7 stars, 100 ratings
Paperback: $19.99
E-book: $5.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Why distractions are blocking your manifestation results—and how to fix it.
You have the tools. You’ve read the books, tried the techniques, and set your goals. Yet, every day feels like a struggle to stay consistent with your practice. Sound familiar?
Here’s the truth: Distraction is the silent killer of your power. We live in a world full of noise—constant demands on your attention that steal your focus and make it almost impossible to manifest consistently. Without focus, your results are unpredictable, scattered, and frustratingly slow.
But here’s the good news: visionaries like Steve Jobs, Warren Buffet, and Tony Robbins have shared a simple truth—where attention goes, energy flows. Once you learn how to control your attention, you can manifest your desires consistently and predictably. This is why Focused Manifesting may be the most important book in the series.
Inside Focused Manifesting, you’ll discover:
- The #1 distraction that’s keeping you from manifesting the life you want—and how to eliminate it.
- A simple exercise for choosing goals that create heart-mind alignment.
- How to turn manifestation into a daily habit vs. a random event.
- Feng shui secrets.
- Mindfulness exercises.
- A counter-intuitive way of using technology.
- A little tweak for 10x-ing the effects of gratitude.
- And much, much more!
The Magic of Manifesting: 15 Advanced Techniques To Attract Your Best Life, Even If You Think It's Impossible Now
Book 1 of 8 in the Law of Attraction SeriesGenres: Teen & Young Adult Philosophy, New Age New Thought, Spiritual Self-Help
4.7 stars, 3700 ratings
Paperback: $16.80
E-book: $5.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Unlock the power of your mind to manifest your best life in 2025.
Do you feel stuck—like no matter what you try, nothing ever seems to change? Years pass, and you find yourself replaying the same old script?
Here’s the truth: Your thoughts have more power than you think. And if you’re not conscious of this, you’ll live on autopilot and at the mercy of random circumstances.
This is not about wishful thinking or blind positivity. Manifesting is about aligning your thoughts, emotions, and actions with the universal laws that govern success and abundance.
In The Magic of Manifesting, you’ll discover 15 advanced techniques to shift your mindset, break free from self-doubt, and manifest the life you’ve always wanted. You'll learn:
- The science of manifestation they don't want you to know and how to make it work for you.
- How to unlock your mind’s potential to attract success, love, and abundance.
- The #1 mental exercise top performers use to stay focused and thrive.
- How to identify and release hidden blocks keeping you from achieving your goals.
- Simple steps to rewire your beliefs and shift from scarcity to abundance.
About the Author
Founder of MNTALITY, Ryuu Shinohara is a metaphysics philosopher and researcher devoted to exploring the hidden laws of life. Passionate about teaching others, he shares proven, timeless principles of reality—both mystical and scientific—that he has adopted and tested with results throughout his life. His books draw from this experience, offering clear, relatable, and practical insights for anyone at any level of understanding (even non-believers), transforming theory into practice and practice into results.
About Monk Mode University
Monk Mode University is an education platform introducing higher-level, conscious teachings around personal development, spirituality, and business to independent thinkers around the globe. Learn more via the Monk Mode University Facebook Page.
Spotlight on Daylight Saving Time: The Power of Growing Older
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Daylight Saving Time: The Power of Growing Older, the latest book from award-winning author David W. Berner.
★★★★★ "A contemplative memoir that navigates the themes of time, change, and self-reflection." ~Literary Titan
Daylight Saving Time: The Power of Growing Older
Genre: Memoir, Philosophy & Spiritual Growth, Personal Transformation4.7 stars, 16 ratings
Paperback: $12.95
E-book: $6.99
An instruction book on the art of growing older.
When we are young, we think little about growing old. But time soon catches up with us: the first gray hair, a buckling knee, the purchase of reading glasses, or when a heart attack at the age of 56 rattles your world and reminds you that none of us gets out of here alive.
In this meditative and intimate personal narrative on the act of aging, David W. Berner discovers how to accept and revel in the present, when the days that remain are fewer than those that have passed, and offers a path for celebrating life's final chapters. Through the lessons of seasonal change, the natural world, literature, and spirituality, Berner gives us a kind of instruction book on the art of growing older, challenging us to accept aging's transformative powers. As a keen observer of the world, he forms a guiding philosophy on how to discover joy in the time we have left and nourishment in life's remaining seasons.
Awards for Daylight Saving Time
WINNER (Autobiography): London Book Festival 2024
WINNER: Firebird Book Award 2024
GOLD STAR AWARD: Literary Titan
WINNER: Book Excellence Awards
WINNER: Impact Awards
Praise for Daylight Saving Time
"An authentic and moving narrative with fittingly beautiful and powerful writing." ~International Review of Books
"A candid reflection on life...at a time when the trail's end is closer than where it began." ~Midwest Book Review
"A fascinating read, (the author) writes with a gentle beauty and grace." ~Readers' Favorite
"A touching, introspective exploration of life as we age...of what it means to truly live the beauty of life before it's gone." ~Ryan Lindner, author of The Half-Known Life
"With his best writing yet, David W. Berner takes cues from the events in his life, the seasons, and the natural world to craftily bundle a layered personal narrative that is deeply woven with nuggets of wisdom and reflection that can only come from the power of growing older." ~Nancy Chadwick, author of Under the Birch Tree
"David W. Berner manages to mix the profound with everyday experiences and finds beauty in the mundane. I feel like I am having a conversation with a friend." ~Martin Wells, author of Lost for Words
"A candidly told, thought-provoking, important book." ~The Prairies Book Review
"The lovely prose and the ability to find meaning and pleasure in so many of his daily activities made this work feel like I was wrapping myself up in a cozy blanket." ~Manhattan Book Review
"An authentic and touching memoir that delves into the complexities of aging, offering profound insights and heartfelt reflections on life's journey." ~Book Excellence Review
The Writer Shed: Sign up to receive The Writer Shed, a free monthly newsletter from author David W. Berner about his latest books, writing classes, and what he's reading and writing right now.
About the Author
David W. Berner is author of fiction, creative nonfiction, memoir, short stories, and poetry. His work includes the novels A Well-Respected Man, The Islander, Night Radio, Sandman, and Rainbow Man, and the nonfiction books Accidental Lessons, Any Road Will Take You There, Walks with Sam, The Consequence of Stars, and Daylight Saving Time.Awards for his writing include the Eric Hoffer Book Award, the NYC Big Book Award, the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors Award for Literary Fiction, and the Book of the Year Award from the Chicago Writers Association. In addition, he has been recognized by the Paris Book Festival, The Society of Midland Authors, the Hawthorne Prize, the Royal Dragonfly Awards, and the Readers' Choice Awards, and he has been honored as the Writer-in-Residence at the Jack Kerouac Project in Orlando, Florida, and the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Home and Museum in Oak Park, Illinois.
David is a retired associate-professor at Columbia College Chicago, a long-time Chicago broadcast journalist, and now teaches writing at Gotham Writers Workshop of New York City. Learn more at davidwberner.com, and be sure to sign up for his free monthly newsletter and to follow him online:
Spotlight on Air & Ashes: YA Romance with a Sci-Fi Twist
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Air & Ashes, Book 1 in a new YA Romance/Fantasy/Sci-Fi series from author Margaret Mantor, perfect for fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout’s The Darkest Star and Leigh Bardugo’s Shadow and Bone.
★★★★★ "A captivating fantasy with rich world-building, complex relationships, and just the right amount of suspense." ~Goodreads Review
Bonus: Sign up for the author's newsletter and read the first three chapters of Air & Ashes FREE!
Air & Ashes
New release: October 2024Book 1 of The Elementum Series
4.6 stars, 68 ratings on Goodreads
From $0.99
What if you found out everything in your life was a lie?
After seventeen-year-old Emma Cross learns her mom didn’t die of cancer but was murdered, Emma's life is upended. Forced from her home, Emma is thrown into a world hidden within our own, where Elementums—genetically engineered super soldiers who control the elements—are caught in a vicious war against the unstoppable Clinic.
Emma is convinced she doesn’t belong there—until she herself is targeted as a rare Halfbreed. If she wants to survive and uncover the dark secrets of her mom’s past, she must train to defend herself against the Clinic while resisting the distracting allure of the icy Kaden Hale—a powerful, driven Elementum with secrets of his own.
When Emma discovers a highly classified project that somehow involved her mom and could change the entire course of the war, there’s no turning back. Only three options remain: life in the Elementum world, death, or worst of all—capture.
Praise for Air & Ashes
★★★★★ "Echoes the relentless energy and survivalist spirit of The Hunger Games.” ~Goodreads Review
★★★★★ "A fresh take on the 'hidden power' trope...masterfully weaves suspense, humor, action, and heart.." ~Amazon Review
About the Author
Margaret Mantor is an author, architect, and avid science fantasy romance reader. She lives in Colorado with her husband and corgi. When she isn’t writing, she is sketching, pampering her little burnt-toast-loaf, and cheering on her talented ceramic artist husband. Learn more at MargaretMantor.com, read the first three chapters of Air & Ashes free when you sign up for Margaret's newsletter, and be sure to follow her online:Spotlight on books for children from best-selling author and TEDx speaker Marcy Pusey
LitNuts is pleased to shine a spotlight on the work of best-selling author and TEDx speaker Marcy Pusey, including these award-winning books for children:
The Survival Squad: Friends, Fear, and a Jungle Journey
New release: October 2024Genres: Children's Sociology Books, Children's Books on Emotions & Feelings
4.9 stars, 21 ratings
From $1.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Owl, Meerkat, and Tiger are headed to the biggest jungle party of the year! Along the way, they face challenges like rivers, snakes, and elephants. Each friend reacts in their own way: Meerkat sounds the alarm, Owl strategizes, and Tiger might fight, flee, freeze, or fawn! Created by trauma-certified author Marcy Pusey, The Survival Squad helps kids learn about their brain’s “survival team.”
Praise for The Survival Squad
★★★★★ "A game-changer for helping children understand their reactions to the things that they encounter along their 'walk through the forest.'” Goodreads Review
★★★★★ "A jungle journey that helps a child with the emotions of life." ~Amazon Review
Speranza's Sweater: A Child's Journey Through Foster Care and Adoption
Genres: Children's Books on Adoption, Children's Orphans & Foster Homes Books, Children's Books on Violence and Abuse4.7 stars, 156 ratings
From $4.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Speranza wears her sweater everywhere, hanging onto the last memories of her birth home, until it’s threadbare. Like her unraveled sweater, Speranza must weave together a new story, bringing threads from her past and strands from her present, into a new future of love, family, and the true meaning of home.
Recognition and Praise for Speranza's Sweater
Mom’s Choice Gold Award Winner
Royal Dragonfly First Place Award Winner
★★★★★ "A useful book to introduce foster families and adoption to young children.'” ~Readers' Favorite
Weirdo and Willy
Genres: Children's Sociology Books; Children's Social Activism & Volunteering; Children's Fairy Tales, Folklore, Legends & Mythology4.8 stars, 59 ratings
From $3.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Willy is taunted by his classmates for being weird—for the way he dresses, what he eats, and the things he likes to do. One day, a “Weirdo” actually shows up in response to their name-calling. The creature wants to play! Thus begins a tale of unlikely friendship: Weirdo and Willy find the companionship they’ve been missing in the most unlikely of people…er, creatures. Taunters beware! You never know what might actually show up!
Recognition and Praise for Weirdo and Willy
★★★★★ Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Awards
★★★★★ "A different take on dealing with bullies, and an excellent tool for discussion." ~Goodreads Review
About the Author
Marcy Pusey is an award-winning author of several bestselling books for adults and children, an international two-time TEDx speaker, and the Founder of Miramare Ponte Press. With her passion for storytelling and her commitment to uplifting others, Marcy loves to inspire her readers with powerful tales that touch the heart and stir the soul. She also enjoys helping fellow authors pursue their writing dreams by providing them with coaching, consultation, and publishing services.Marcy has spent her whole life helping others. Through her work as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Certified Trauma and Resilience Practitioner, she helps people discover the emotional tools and support they need to grow beyond trauma and embrace their lives to the fullest. For more information about Marcy and her work, visit MarcyPusey.com or MiramarePontePress.com. You can also sign up to join one or both of Marcy's "tribes": Overcoming Traumatic Experiences and Stewards of Story, and be sure to follow Marcy online: