Today's Featured Books— Spotlight
Spotlight on She Steals My Breath, Book 1 of The Medicine Man Series
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on She Steals My Breath, Book 1 of The Medicine Man historical romance series from author Karen Kay.
She Steals My Breath (The Medicine Man Book 1)
Genres: Historical Romance, Native American Literature, Western & Frontier Romance4.2 stars, 396 ratings
From: $0.99
Her Beauty Takes His Breath Away. Only She Can Restore It
Eagle Heart of the Blackfoot Nation has not come to the for Union trading post to trade, but to find his missing brother. The medicine man has never seen a white woman, but, when Laylah McIntosh walks into the room, her beauty steals his breath.
Laylah has assets besides beauty that make her valuable to her father, the fort's trader: her skill with numbers, her photographic memory, and her knowledge of the sign language used by all the tribes. But, when she’s injured and caught in a fierce blizzard, it is Eagle Heart who rescues her.
Forced into each other's company, their attraction deepens. But a union between them is forbidden in both their worlds. Can their love find a way to survive? Or will their differences separate them forever?
Warning: Sensuous historical romance with a strong paranormal element could cause a gal to go West in search of love and adventure.
Praise for She Steals My Breath
★★★★★ "A blend of historical romance and today's headlines." ~Amazon Review
★★★★★ "A beautifully told American Indian love story." ~Goodreads Review
★★★★★ "A culture-busting romance." ~Amazon Review
The Medicine Man Series
Get the entire four-book series!
-
She Steals My Breath (Book 1):
4.2 stars, 396 ratings - She Captures My Heart (Book 2):
4.3 stars, 257 ratings - She Paints My Soul (Book 3):
4.5 stars, 299 ratings - She Brings Beauty To Me (Book 4):
4.3 stars, 210 ratings
About the Author
Karen Kay is the author of American Historical Romance novels. Her great grandmother was Choctaw Indian, and she is adopted Blackfeet. Ms. Kay has been praised by reviewers and fans alike for bringing insights into the everyday life of the American Indian culture of the past. She is honored to be able to write about the American Indian culture. “With the power of romance, I hope to bring about an awareness of the American Indian’s concept of honor, and what it meant to them to live as free men and free women. There are some things that should never be forgotten.” ~Karen Kay
Learn more at novels-by-karenkay.com where you can also sign up for her newsletter, and be sure to follow her online:
Spotlight on the Love Birds Series from Katie Eagan Schenck
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the Love Birds Series from author Katie Eagan Schenck. Follow the McAllister family through love, loss, and second chances:
- Book 1: When Cardinals Appear
- Book 2: When Swans Dance
- Book 3: When Doves Lament
When Cardinals Appear
Genres: Clean & Wholesome Romance, Contemporary Women Fiction, Coming of Age Fiction, Small Town & Rural Fiction4.5 stars, 43 ratings
From: $0.99
She has a promise to keep. But when her plans are thrown into a tailspin, will a persistent red bird show her how to let her dreams take flight?
Lanie McAllister is ready to move on. Wrestling with her mom’s death, the young woman just wants to settle the estate and soar off for good to her boyfriend in California—far away from painful memories. But she suspects the lucky cardinal she keeps seeing is trying to send a message when a flat tire puts her back in the path of the man who broke her heart.
With fate constantly throwing the man her mother always hated in her way, Lanie can’t seem to shake the wounds of the past. And when her current love makes a serious misstep and she discovers her ex harbors a secret, she starts to rethink what will make her truly happy.
Questioning her vow to her mother to never look back, is the cardinal a clue Lanie’s true happiness is hiding in plain sight?
When Cardinals Appear is the emotional first book in The Love Birds women’s romantic fiction series. If you like heroines who grow, overcoming loss, and second chances, then you’ll adore Katie Eagan Schenck’s bittersweet tale.
Praise for When Cardinals Appear
"An uplifting romance about mending bruised relationships and holding onto hope." ~Kirkus Reviews
"A captivating, absorbing, and addictive novel that explores some weighty issues through a heartwarming and sweetly satisfying story." ~The Book Review Directory
"A good, old-fashioned love story that will tug at readers' heartstrings." ~Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
"Readers will fall in love with these well-drawn characters, the charming small-town setting, and just the right amount of sparks flying." ~Angela M., Line Editor, Red Adept Editing
When Swans Dance
Genres: Clean & Wholesome Romance, Contemporary Women Fiction, Small Town & Rural Fiction4.5 stars, 47 ratings
From: $2.99
A new business. The wedding of the year. But when a health scare jeopardizes their plans, can Steven and Rose learn to dance or will this be their swan song?
Fresh off the closing of his late mother's estate, Steven is ready to start the next chapter of his life—marrying Rose. Though he struggles to find that ever elusive work/life balance, he's optimistic about the future of his new law practice.
One double shift too many makes Rose an unhappy nurse, but all that overtime will not only help fund her upcoming nuptials, it might earn her the coveted head nurse position as well.
But when Steven suffers a health emergency, suddenly all of their plans—and finances—are thrown into a tailspin. Postponing the wedding makes the most sense, but Steven won't hear of it. Rose fears if he doesn't slow down, he'll make her a widow before she ever becomes a wife. As questions arise over whether they'll ever take that walk down the aisle, can a pair of swans help them find their way back to each other?
When Swans Dance continues the emotional saga of The Love Birds women’s romantic fiction series. If you like spunky heroines, tenacious heroes, and stories of rekindled love then you’ll adore When Swans Dance.
Praise for When Swans Dance
"This romance explores the true meaning of love and commitment in a way that is heartwarming, thought-provoking, and unforgettable." ~Irene S., Proofreader, Red Adept Editing
"An emotional women’s romantic fiction read." ~Amazon Review
When Doves Lament
Genres: Small Town & Rural Fiction, Later in Life Romance, Single Women FictionNew release: October 2024
4.3 stars, 9 ratings
From: $4.99
Neither expected to fall in love again. But together they might just discover that the love of their lives came later.
Max McAllister swore off love before the ink was even dry on his divorce papers. Between his attempts to salvage the strained relationship with his daughter and rekindling his passion for woodworking, he doesn’t have time for the drama that romance brings.
Carissa Owens has finally found her footing again after losing her husband five years ago. Her wedding business is thriving and she has her sights set on expanding to corporate events—if she can secure a meeting with a lucrative new client.
But when Max’s daughter hires Carissa to plan her wedding, Max insists on being involved in every aspect of the process, ruffling Carissa’s feathers. As they spend more time together, an unexpected attraction sprouts wings. That is, until Max reveals a surprise for his daughter that puts Carissa’s professional reputation at risk. Can they find a way to dovetail their plans or will their budding romance have a crash landing?
When Doves Lament is the emotional finale of The Love Birds women’s romantic fiction series. If you like grumpy heroes, business-savvy heroines, and later-in-life characters, then you’ll adore this heartwarming tale.
When Doves Lament can be read as a standalone, but is best enjoyed with the rest of the series.
Praise for When Doves Lament
"Poignant, thoughtful story brimming with hope and second chances." ~Angela M., Line Editor, Red Adept Editing
"A poignant look at life after the death of one’s mate." ~Goodreads Review
About the Author
Katie Eagan Schenck writes sweet romance and women’s fiction that warms the heart and gives all the feels. She has an MFA in creative writing from Queens University of Charlotte. When she's not writing she's either drafting regulations for the federal government, baking delicious treats, or binging Hallmark movies. She lives in Maryland with her husband, daughter, and their three cats. Learn more at KESchenckAuthor.com; sign up to get free chapters, polls, cover reveals, and publishing news from Katie; and be sure to follow her online: 
New Release: Bertram’s Emporium of Things People Say from Ariel Peckel & Vine Leaves Press
Congratulations to Ariel Peckel and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Bertram’s Emporium of Things People Say, a place where satire meets the macabre, humorously dissecting modern culture wars.
★★★★★ “Zany and off-the-wall imaginative." ~Ian M. Rogers, author of MFA Thesis Novel
Bertram’s Emporium of Things People Say
NEW RELEASE: November 5, 2024Genre: Satire
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: From $4.99
Step into the twisted corridors of Bertram’s Emporium, where the mundane meets the macabre in a carnival of unrestrained wit and biting satire.
In the madness of contemporary culture wars, the Emporium serves no ideology. It serves up iconoclasm. From hillbilly erotic philosophy to a cancel rag that declares the Sun triggering, from The Pronoun Simulator to The Abortion Avatar, from neocon unicorn princess to Antifa blackshirt, no extreme of the ideological spectrum is too self-absurd to spare. On one end, the far-right’s demands for freedom from sweeping government powers evaporate the moment their own sacred cows of religious education and fetuses are at stake. On the other, militant gender identity ideology undermines the rights of the very people it patronizingly claims to protect, with dangerous implications for women, trans people, and detransitioners. On the whole, the absurdity of those ideologies is on plain display to those residing between the extremes who long for a more reasoned approach. Bertram’s Emporium delivers one in the guise of humorist social commentary vignettes. It also delivers purely comedic pieces at a time when everybody can use a laugh.
Welcome to the Emporium.
Praise for Bertram's Emporium
★★★★★ “Brilliant!” ~Alycia Vreeland, author of Baby Darlin'
★★★★★ “We all need to see ourselves in the mirror, so we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Get up-to-speed with this comment on our times—and for a good laugh.” ~Rusty Allen, author of Ella's War
★★★★★ “A wild philosophical ride that is as funny as it is timely and as mind expanding as it is mind bending.” ~Daria Sommers, award-winning director, writer and producer
★★★★★ “Fast-paced jabs at the excesses of 21st century cancel culture, militant ideology, and alternative facts, with plenty of plain ol’ fun thrown in for good measure.” ~Ian M. Rogers, author of MFA Thesis Novel
About the Author
From Colombia to Israel to Canada, and in the process, from Judaism to apostasy via philosophy, Ariel Peckel is of no fixed identity. He obtained a PhD from the University of Toronto in philosophy of religion with a focus on the Enlightenment and on modern naturalism and atheism, writing a dissertation on Hume, Nietzsche, and Wittgenstein. He has published an award-winning article in the journal Hume Studies (2024), and divides his time between academic writing and satirical social commentary, aspiring to refine the art of tipping sacred cows in both domains. Learn more at ArielPeckel.com.
About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent. Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com.
One Year, One Night: YA Historical Fiction
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on One Year, One Night, a recently released work of historical fiction for young adults from S.L. Roman and Red Chair Press.
"A heart-wrenching and beautiful story that inspires curiosity and empathy." ~Kirkus Reviews
BONUS: Check out the history behind the story and the video trailer for the book.
One Year, One Night
NEW RELEASE: August 2024Genre: Historical Fiction for Young Adults (ages 11 - 18)
Available in hardcover, softcover, audiobook, and e-book from $9.99
It's never easy to go back, especially when the memories you've been running from suddenly resurface.
When Annie returns to her home village after a long absence, she rediscovers the diary she kept the year she turned 16, the year that changed her life. We follow Annie as she navigates a blossoming love story with a handsome soldier and her growing affection for an evacuee child. With tender and amusing moments, this story—set in a small English village during World War II—explores love, resilience, and loss with a fresh new voice.
Praise for One Year, One Night
2024 Literary Titan GOLD Book Award Winner
2024 International Book Awards: Finalist for Best in Children's Fiction
"A smartly plotted middle grade novel set during WWII with a strong, likeable protagonist." ~The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
"An authentic portrayal of juvenile sentiments." ~Tripti Kandari for Feathered Quill Reviewer's Choice award
"A powerful meditation on the ever-changing nature of human relationships over time." ~Jason Street for Reedsy
"A touching story set in a rural village during the beginning of WWII. It is laced with humor and includes many heart-warming scenes. Highly recommended." ~Edith Wairimu for Reader's Favorite
"The story centralizes a female perspective on war, focused on what girls and women had to do to survive during such times, making it accessible and relatable to a young female readership. A vivid chronicle of the lives of girls and women during World War II." ~Kirkus Reviews
"Despite the book's discussion of serious themes, it is an easy and entertaining read with a subtle touch of humor. The characterization is top-notch, and the storyline is amazing, straight to the point, and kept me engaged throughout without being overwhelming. I highly recommend One Year, One Night to young adults looking for a short and interesting fictional story." ~Thomas Anderson, for Literary Titan
About the Author
S.L. Roma
n is the pen name of the writing team of Laura Meloni and Sarah Onions. The writers have been friends for many years, but they wanted to write together under a pseudonym. With surnames of Meloni and Onions, they thought they sounded more like a vegetable market, so they came up with the name S.L. Roman (in homage to Laura’s native city, Rome). Both have been teachers at the high school level. One Year, One Night is their debut novel.
About the Illustrator
Kevin Hopgood is a children's illustrator and comic book artist. He works for a wide variety of publishers in the UK, US, and Europe. Past clients include Marvel comics, for whom he co-created the character War Machine which appeared in the latest Iron Man movie. He's also worked for publishers such as Oxford University Press, Barrington Stoke, and Franklin Watts.
About the Publisher
Red Chair Press is committed to learning and literacy (and laughter!). Founded in 2009, Red Chair Press has been dedicated to publishing series to engage children in stories that provide models for strong character and good behavior. By working with only the highest-quality artists from around the world, Red Chair Press ensures that their books will appeal to a wide range of readers. Learn more at RedChairPress.com, and be sure to follow them online:
Jason Stocks: Poetry with "a powerful immediacy." ~Kirkus Reviews
Today, LitNuts is sharing the work of Jason Stocks, a writer and teacher living in south Florida. Before becoming a teacher, Jason worked in a chicken house, washed dishes, bagged groceries, waited tables, and sold cars.
Jason's first full-length poetry collection, Blameforest, was a finalist in the American Legacy Book Awards for contemporary poetry. His most recent poetry collection, Laughing is Forever, was released earlier this year.
"These mercurial poems surprise, thrill, and move in equal measure. They’re dying to be read." ~Independent Book Review
Blameforest
4.8 stars, 43 ratingsPaperback: $12.99
Ebook: $2.99
Finalist in the 2024 American Legacy Book Awards
"Provocative, explicit poetry written with muscular swagger." ~Kirkus Reviews
"Fierce, bold, and self aware...steeped in the Gothic hauntings of Deep South life." ~Jenifer DeBellis, author of Blood Sisters
"Stocks captures the rhythms of a vibrant vernacular that is original and authentic...a layered and nuanced work of innovative literature to be read in one sitting, and then over and over again." ~Jacob M. Appel, author of The Cynic in Extremis
Laughing is Forever
5.0 stars, 25 ratingsPaperback: $13.18
Ebook: $2.99
"Stocks's writing has a powerful immediacy, and his poems are packed with both profanity and pop-culture references." ~Kirkus Reviews
"This collection is brave, unflinching and hits you like a punch in the jaw. It is at times brutal and vicious but also tender and intelligent." ~Sam Szanto, author of If No One Speaks
"These are the kind of tattered, beautiful poems I often search for and rarely find." ~Sean Thomas Dougherty, author of Death Prefers the Minor Keys
"Jogging from detritus-ridden, Bukowski-inspired free verses to Lowell-style observations of the inner life, this hardtack collection of poetry runs the gamut. A rugged, sinuous voice drives the free verse narratives." ~Independent Book Review
More about the Author
Jason Stocks was born in Arkansas, raised in Mississippi, and currently calls Florida home. He received his BFA from Goddard College and his MFA from Solstice of Pine Manor College where he was the 2014 Sharon Olds Poetry Fellow. His work has appeared in numerous journals, including Exterminating Angel Press, Confrontation, and Deep South Magazine.Blameforest, his first collection of poetry, was nominated for four indie awards, including the 2024 American Legacy Book Awards. Learn more by visiting his YouTube channel, and be sure to also follow him on Facebook and on Amazon:
The Bench by Francesca Flood, Ed.D. - a Book to Sooth Your Soul
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Bench by Francesca Flood, Ed.D., a collection of interconnected stories that invite introspection and reflection on life's biggest questions.
★★★★★ "A warm healing soup for ALL souls!" ~Goodreads Review
Hope Verdad Presents The Bench: A Parable About Life, Death, and Beyond
Genres: Family & Personal Growth, Inspirational Religious Fiction, Divination4.8 stars, 80 ratings
Paperback: $14.99
Ebook: $4.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
Five strangers' lives become intertwined by fate, trauma, and a mysterious bench that holds the key to their darkest moments. In this riveting book, the author explores the depths of human experience, the thin line between life and the afterlife, and the eternal search for understanding humankind's true meaning.
Set in a timeless and familiar place, the bench becomes a crossroads between worlds, a beacon of hope and transformation for those burdened by personal crises. As each protagonist takes their turn on the bench, they encounter a stranger who offers solace in the form of lost loved ones, sparking revelations and insights into the mysteries of life and death.
The Bench is more than just a story; it's an immersive experience—a meditation on love, grief, and our quest for meaning. Drawing inspiration from the emotional complexity of The Shack and the philosophical depth of The Alchemist, Dr. Flood weaves a narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level.
Perfect for those who crave stories of spiritual discovery and emotional depth, The Bench invites readers to reflect on life's biggest questions and discover the resilience of the human spirit.
Praise for The Bench
"Each of these chapters tells a story of a spiritual crisis and revelation. Well-written and absorbing. Highly recommended." ~Dr. Judith K. Gwathmey, Professor of Medicine and Physiology, Boston University of Medicine
"Learn how love, faith, and forgiveness can sustain us.." ~Captain David Winegar, Retired
"Heartwarming and thought-provoking." ~Amazon Review
About the Author
Francesca Flood, a native of Brooklyn, New York, has carved her path in the world of writing through a crucible of life experiences. Her award-winning work focuses on evocative speculative fiction that pushes the boundaries of imagination and explores spiritual realms. Her narratives, a tapestry of the mystical and the mundane, invite readers to delve into profound questions about life, choices, and reality. Crafting intricate plots and profound philosophical insights, Francesca’s work has garnered a diverse and dedicated following.
Francesca holds a Master’s in Pastoral Theology and a Doctor of Education. She has published in multiple peer-reviewed journals, has served as editor/author in a compendium on entrepreneurship with Springer-Meteor, and has been editor/author for the American Bar Association’s book on suicide.
Learn more at HopeVerdad.com, sign up for Francesca's newsletter (scroll to bottom of her website for the sign-up form), and be sure to follow her online:
Wisdom Keeper: My Extraordinary Journey to Unlock the Sacred Within
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Wisdom Keeper, a spiritual memoir with a healing purpose from author Chloe Kemp.
Wisdom Keeper has received widespread praise and numerous awards, including a Gold Medal for a Memoir by a Female from the Living Now Book Awards.
Wisdom Keeper: My Extraordinary Journey to Unlock the Sacred Within
Genres: Health & Spirituality, Women's Personal Spiritual Growth, Spiritual Healing4.4 stars, 43 ratings
From: $0.99
Psychic dreams and visions, remembering past lives, and becoming an intuitive shamanic healer—this is the story of an ordinary woman's extraordinary spiritual journey. With raw honesty, Chloe shares her story of awakening to her Divine purpose, healing herself, and her journey to heal others. Wisdom Keeper reveals the Divine pathway to a more peaceful, happy, fulfilled, and healthy life.
Chloe's extraordinary journey is filled with miracles, visions, lucid and prophetic dreams, parallel universes, and knowledge of past lives. She healed herself from deeply embedded trauma, an incurable illness, and serious medical conditions. Chloe shares significant mystical experiences she had in Ecuador, Europe, Mexico, and Asheville, N.C., including an invitation to become a Spiritual Grandmother. She has performed intuitive shamanic energy healings and mediumship sessions in Ecuador, Mexico, and the United States.
Recognition & Praise for Wisdom Keeper
- Gold Medal: Memoir by Female, Living Now Book Awards
- Finalist: Nonfiction—Inspirational, Readers' Favorite International Book Awards
- Finalist: New Age: Non-Fiction & Spirituality: Inspirational, Best Book Awards
- Finalist: New Age—Nonfiction, American Book Fest International Book Awards
- Amazon Best Seller: Health & Spirituality, Inspirational Personal Testimonies, Multiple Sclerosis, Spiritual Growth, & Spiritual Healing
- “Chloe navigates us through her astonishing journey, which is a testament to her unrelenting commitment to exploring new regions of consciousness and to her exceptional capacity for receiving direction from Spirit Guides.”—Alex Ndirangu, Reader’s Favorite Book Reviewer
- "This book has both memoir elements and self-help content, and the balance between them, the organization, held my interest completely." ~Writer’s Digest Book Awards Judge
- "A journey of darkness to light, struggle to freedom, and fear to love. A must-read for all who want true transformation." ~Dr. Shannon South, Award-Winning Therapist, Best-Selling Author
- "Chloe reminds us we are essential in the Universe; when we heal, our loved ones, people around us, and the Earth also heal. This book is truly for everyone." ~Eduardo Morales, Shamanic Curandero, Tepoztlán, Morelos, Mexico
About the Author
Chloe Kemp is an award-winning writer and has also served as Creative Director, Editor-in-Chief, and Publisher for an award-winning parenting magazine. She is grateful to be sharing ancient wisdom and shamanic energy healing in her book Wisdom Keeper. Chloe's writing and multimedia art goals are to help awaken, inspire, illuminate, educate, motivate, and heal. Social issues touch her heart deeply, which is reflected in her work. Learn more at chloekempwisdomkeeper.com, sign up for her Wisdom newsletter, and be sure to follow her online: 
Teeth of the Dragon: a new spy thriller from Amazon best-selling author Andrew Ceroni
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Teeth of the Dragon, the latest espionage thriller from former special agent and Amazon best-selling author Andrew Ceroni.
"Ceroni is a master at crafting action scenes in all their violent glory. Fans of fast-moving spy thrillers with sumptuously choreographed violence will not pause until the last page." ~Publishers Weekly / BookLife
Teeth of the Dragon
Genres: Suspense Thrillers, Literature & FictionNew release: September 2024
From: $2.99
CIA Agent Dave McClure is about to face the biggest and most deadly challenges of his career. First, in Jerusalem and then in Japan...
In this nail-biting thriller, the CIA are struck by several threats at once. First, several abduction attempts are made on U.S. Embassy employees in Jerusalem. CIA Agent Dave McClure is sent to speak with the station chief at the embassy, but he soon finds himself up against a cell of Hezbollah terrorists. Back in the States, after leaving his kendo club one night, Dave is kidnapped and brought to a cabin in the West Virginia mountains, where Hezbollah agents intend to torture and then kill him. Dave must find a way to escape or breathe his last. And then there's a situation in Tokyo, where embassy employees are being threatened, bullied, and beaten by Yakuza members. Dave is sent to assist, leading to yet another life-or-death challenge for the beleaguered agent. And it will take all the courage and cunning McClure possesses to make it out alive.
Praise for Teeth of the Dragon
★★★★★ "Dave McClure is a daring, bold, intuitive, risk-taking, calculating, and savvy agent you will enjoy." ~Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
★★★★★ "The CIA we deserve and the agent we wish we had more of." ~Amazon Review
More From Andrew Ceroni...
First Bullet
Genres: Espionage Thrillers, Suspense Thrillers, Literature & Fiction4.4 stars, 52 ratings
From: $2.99
A white-knuckle thriller with three intriguing story lines.
Facing the grave dangers of a triple-threat, the CIA is on its heels. CIA Agent Dave McClure and his Special Operations teams face the grave dangers of a triple threat...from a Chinese base hidden in the mist-covered Blue Mountains of Jamaica, to a German terrorist team attack on a strategic missile base in Wyoming, and finally to Berlin, Garmisch, and the German Alps where intelligence sources warn the CIA of a plot to overthrow the German government. The CIA must act fast and forcibly to avoid the outbreak of World War III.
Praise for First Bullet and Andrew Ceroni
★★★★★ "Step aside Jack Ryan...there’s a new action hero in town!" ~Jill Rey, Amazon Vine Voice Reviewer
★★★★★ "Authentic and intriguing...a riveting work full of action." ~Readers' Favorite
About the Author
Andrew Ceroni served a distinguished career as a Senior Supervisory Special Agent focused in Title 18 U.S.C. Chapter 37 espionage investigations as well as counterespionage and antiterrorism operations throughout Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific Rim. Ceroni grew up in Poughkeepsie, NY, where he attended public schools. He received a congressional nomination to the U.S. Air Force Academy, graduating with a B.S. Degree, and received his M.A. Degree from Case Western Reserve University. Ceroni also completed studies in the German and French languages at the University of Maryland. He is a graduate of numerous intelligence and law enforcement training forums. An author of eight award-winning novels, he is a member of Authors Guild. Follow him online: 
New releases from History Through Fiction: Well-crafted fiction based on real events & people
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on new and forthcoming releases from History Through Fiction, an independent publisher focused on high-quality historical fiction. Read on to learn more.
Bonus: Sign up to receive news from History Through Fiction and get a chance to win a print edition of HTF's newest release, The Rhino Keeper.
The Rhino Keeper by Jillian Forsberg
New release: October 2024Genre: Historical Fiction
4.6 stars, 100+ ratings on Goodreads
From $2.99
A novel based on the remarkable true story of a rhino that dazzled 18th-century Europe and the keeper who loved her.
Based on the true story of a Dutch sea captain who traveled with an Indian rhinoceros called Clara across 18th century Europe, The Rhino Keeper evokes both the thrill of discovery in the archives and the wonder felt by a world in which no European had seen a living rhinoceros.
2022 – College student Andrea Clarkson uncovers a historical mystery while studying abroad in Holland. From hidden desk drawers come unusual historical documents featuring a rhinoceros. On a lichen-covered eighteenth-century grave, the same animal is carved. When an expanding river forces exhumation, what she finds buried there is life-changing. Andrea faces her nightmares to retrieve what a grave robber steals: valuable proof of a long-forgotten history.
1740 – Ship captain Douwemout van der Meer has something not seen in two hundred years: the only rhino in Europe, called Clara. Douwemout and Clara tour Europe, enthralling peasants and queens, hoping to change popular views that rhinos are man-eating beasts. Absolute wonder follows, but when a priest sees idol worship and becomes hell-bent on destroying her, Clara, Douwe, and the lives of her bonded caretakers are at risk.
As Douwe becomes protectively dedicated to adventuring with Clara, unexpected love finds him, and his heart starts to tear. Will he choose a life with a traveling wonder-beast forever, or can love exist in many forms for the rhino keeper?
Praise for The Rhino Keeper
"Illuminates the extraordinary connection between humans and animals...a historical mystery and a tale of old-world adventure, reminding us that even the wishes we take to our grave may someday come true after all.” ~Sarah Penner, NYT Bestselling Author of The Lost Apothecary and The London Séance Society
“A charming page turner perfect for animal and history lovers alike.” ~Diana Giovinazzo, author of Antoinette’s Sister
"A masterful tale of mystery, love, and the magic of discovery.” ~Elizabeth R. Andersen, author of The Alewives
My Mother's Secret by Alina Adams
New release: November 2024Genre: Historical Fiction
4.4 stars, 119 ratings on Amazon
From $6.49
With his dying breath, Lena’s father asks his family a cryptic question: “You couldn’t tell, could you?” After his passing, Lena stumbles upon the answer that changes her life forever.
As her revolutionary neighbor mysteriously disappears during Josef Stalin's Great Terror purges, 18-year-old Regina suspects that she's the Kremlin’s next target. Under cover of the night, she flees from her parents' communal apartment in 1930s Moscow to the 20th century's first Jewish state, Birobidzhan, on the border between Russia and China. Once there, Regina has to grapple with her preconceived notions of socialism and Judaism while asking herself the eternal question: What do we owe each other? How can we best help one another? While she contends with these queries and struggles to help Birobidzhan establish itself, love and war are on the horizon.
New York Times Bestselling author Alina Adams draws on her own experiences as a Jewish refugee from Odessa, USSR, as she provides readers a rare glimpse into the world's first Jewish Autonomous Region. My Mother's Secret is rooted in detailed research about a little known chapter of Soviet and Jewish history while exploring universal themes of identity, love, loss, war, and parenthood. Readers can expect a whirlwind journey as Regina finds herself and her courage within one of the century's most tumultuous eras.
Praise for My Mother's Secret
“An eye-opening family saga...that feels both exotic and chillingly familiar." ~Kyra Davis, NYT and USA Today bestselling author of the Just One Night
“A page-turner that has it all: a compelling mystery, sharp insights into Soviet history, a sense of humor, and a complicated and fascinating cast of characters.” ~Maria Kuznetsova, author of Something Unbelievable
"Smart and sumptuous, wry and thoroughly immersive. It transports you to an important moment in Soviet-Jewish history that is more relevant than ever. A triumph." ~Irina Reyn, Goldberg Prize for Jewish Fiction winner and author of The Imperial Wife
The Aziola’s Cry: A Novel of the Shelleys by Ezra Harker Shaw
Recent release: May 7, 2024Genre: Historical Fiction
4.5 stars, 15 ratings on Amazon
From $9.49
Love, tragedy, and the pursuit of literary greatness intertwine in a tumultuous journey that defies societal norms and tests the resilience of Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
In the year 1814, Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, a gifted teenager born into a family of literary brilliance, falls deeply in love with the youthful rebel, Percy Bysshe Shelley. Defying societal conventions, they embark on a daring escapade, accompanied by Mary's step-sister Claire, leaving behind their respective families and Percy's wife and children. However, their journey proves to be far from an idyllic romance, for it is fraught with tumultuous challenges.
In their quest for freedom and expression, Mary and Percy immerse themselves in experimental notions of free love and join forces with the enigmatic and infamous Lord Byron. Amidst these thrilling encounters and adventures, the young lovers are confronted by heart-wrenching tragedies that test their resilience and resolve.
Driven to elude the strict laws of England, which threaten to separate them from their own children, Mary and Shelley embark on a nomadic existence, wandering through the captivating landscapes of Italy while constantly evading their haunting past. As their circumstances become increasingly dire, their shared passion for writing emerges as the sole lifeline that binds them together. Through their literary endeavors, they become each other's guiding force, ultimately crafting timeless masterpieces that will etch their names into the annals of literary history.
Praise for The Aziola's Cry
"Eloquent narrative driven storytelling...truly memorable and deftly crafted." ~Midwest Book Review
"Shows us the terrible joy of life lived on the very precipice of love and art's volcano." ~Jonathan Gibbs, author of The Large Door and Randal: Or the Painted Grape
About the Publisher
History Through Fiction seeks to provide readers with compelling narratives that also act as valuable historical resources. HTF, though fictionalized, include important primary and secondary source materials that are disclosed to readers through a variety of traditionally nonfiction elements such as footnotes, endnotes, or a bibliography. This way, readers may enjoy a fictional narrative while also examining the historical foundation upon which that narrative is based. By combining elements of fiction and nonfiction, HTF authors provide readers with an immersive experience that is both entertaining and educational.Learn more at HistoryThroughFiction.com. Also, be sure to sign up for HTF's newsletter and to follow History Through Fiction online:
New Release: The Field of Plenty from Luke Beling & Vine Leaves Press
Congratulations to Luke Beling and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Beling's new novel, The Field of Plenty, in which a star kicker uncovers dark family secrets after losing a crucial football game and after the death of his father.
★★★★★ “A winner on the football gridiron and beyond.” ~Paul Volponi, author of The Final Four
The Field of Plenty
NEW RELEASE: October 22, 2024Genre: Literary Fiction
4.9 stars, 8 ratings on Goodreads
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: From $5.99
Mitchell Baker’s meteoric rise as a star punter and field-goal kicker stunned everyone—except his father, Ken, who had meticulously groomed Mitch into an athletic sensation. But just as Mitch’s career peaks, tragedy strikes: Mitch loses the most crucial game of his high school career, and shortly after his father dies. Struggling to cope, Mitch falls into a pill addiction and reconnects with Uncle Paul, a mysterious family friend and self-proclaimed miracle worker.
Unraveling a web of deceit spun by Uncle Paul and his late father, Mitch confronts the painful truths about his past. He’s thrust into a dilemma—questioning the very foundation of his upbringing. In this turbulent journey, Mitch faces off against his rival Teddy Jones and finds an unlikely ally in the troubled yet captivating Bianca Black.
Confronted with the raw realities of his own broken self-identity, Mitch navigates the chaos of loss both on and off the field, and he must determine what’s real…and what’s worth fighting for.
Praise for The Field of Plenty
★★★★★ “A gritty, character-led sports novel packed full of hard-hitting drama. Highly recommended!” ~The Wishing Shelf
★★★★★ “A deep meditation on loss, grief, family legacy, and the ways in which human beings heal.” ~Geoff Herbach, author of Cracking the Bell
★★★★★ “A poignant debut from an author to watch. Heartfelt prose threaded with hope about lessons learned—for better or worse—about the power of identity.” ~T.L. Simpson, Strong Like You
★★★★★ “Immersive and intelligent.” ~Craig Leener, There’s No Basketball on Mars
About the Author
Luke Beling is a South African-born author and singer-songwriter who grew up listening to music from the ’60s and ’70s, influenced by records his father played and the surrounding struggle of his native country. As a twenty-something, Beling developed a fond taste for subversive literature, fiction defending the outcast, stories highlighting the grit of the human spirit. Beling believes art should embody both the miracle and labor of life. Everyday tales borne from world wandering, Beling’s songs and stories hope to impart deep pockets of truth.Luke lives on the Big Island of Hawaii with his wife and four daughters, is the director of tennis for a private club, and is an author and alternative/folk singer-songwriter. Learn more at LukeBeling.com.
About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent. Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com.
Scions and Shadows: A world of magic & intrigue spanning centuries
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on books of the Scions and Shadows fantasy series from author Dax Murray, a world of magic and intrigue, spanning centuries of political conspiracies, divine machinations and conflicts of ethics, morality, and conscience. There is an overarching plot to the series, but each book can be read as a stand-alone and in any order.
Bonus: Earn rewards by participating in The Shades and Silver Audiobook Kickstarter campaign.
Stars and Soil
Genres: Sword & Sorcery Fantasy, Epic Fantasy4.6 stars, 7 ratings
From $4.99
The land is dying, commoners are protesting, and workers are revolting. The king is ailing, but the prince is not stepping in to quell the unrest.Lady Caitlin doesn't care—she hasn't cared about anything since the day her world shattered and she lost everything. But fate intervenes, giving her the influence and power to rule the realm as queen or tear it all down from the inside.
Caught in a web of deception and conspiracies, Caitlin must unravel the truth of a long-hidden magical prophecy or she will become yet another pawn of an enemy that has its sights set on making Caitlin into its weapon.
Stars and Soil is the first novel in the Scions and Shadows series and is perfect for those who like their fantasy full of court gossip, political intrigue, shifting alliances, deep worldbuilding, backstabbing, betrayal, and sapphic and disability representation. Fans of Seth Dickinson's The Traitor Baru Cormorant and Tessa Gratton's The Queens of Innis Lear will feel right at home in this magical, queer-normative world.
Praise for Stars and Soil
"A complex story about grief and trying to find both agency in one's life and what one wants out of it." ~Liz Sauco, author of Lost Blades
"A very emotionally convincing main character, making her journey through her fantastical world all the more engaging." ~Ka'ua Lara, author of A New World For You
Nominated in the Queer Indie Awards 2023 for: Best Overall Fantasy, Best Epic Fantasy, Best Dark Fantasy, and Best Supporting Character
Smoke and Steel
Genres: Sword & Sorcery Fantasy, Epic FantasyFrom $4.99
Being one of the youngest of the Sua royals never stopped Saritrah from scheming to take the throne. But violent insurrectionists shattered those plans when they stormed the palace and decimated her family.In the years since, she has amassed an army and will return to claim her crown. However, Ashur, her one remaining sibling, has done the same, and Saritrah must act soon if she's to secure her prize.
Saritrah must retrieve a magical artifact from the hidden city before Ashur does, all while making sure none betray her. If she fails, Sua is lost not just to her, but also forfeited to the insurrectionists and stripped of its pride as a warrior nation.
Shades and Silver
Genres: Sword & Sorcery Fantasy, Fantasy Anthologies4.5 stars, 7 ratings
From $0.99
The birthright of every Ástfríður is to know each metal in the earth, command it, bend it to their desires. Each Ástfríður must choose which metal they would wear upon their heads, denoting the path they would walk. But Britt does not know if they can choose the path they want...if they can overcome a past which has stolen their identity. And Astrid has never felt the pull of the metal at all while trying to navigate a world that they feel has rejected them. The Veil of the Ástfríður has kept them hidden from the world and safe from intruders. Yet Britt and Astrid feel they are imposters in their own homes. Each must decide who they are and what they want to be, or risk losing their place in the Veil.
Shades and Silver is a duology about identity, doubt, disability, and acceptance set in the universe of Scions and Shadows.
Praise for Shades and Silver
"Lyrical writing, detailed characters, and exquisite world-building/" ~Amazon Review
2023 Indie Ink Awards Finalist; Writing the Future We Need: Disability Representation by a Disabled Author
About the Kickstarter Campaign (ends October 25!)
The Kickstarter Campaign for Shades and Silver: The Audiobook aims to bring to life this anthology of fantasy stories about disability, unicorn-people, and belonging via narrator Kyle Rocco East, a finalist for the Indie Ink Award for their narration of Chameleon Moon.
You can become a backer of this project for as little as $1 and earn rewards ranging from an e-book edition of the book to a package that includes audiobook, e-book, and paperback editions of book from the Scions and Shadows Series, including Shades and Silver (all formats), Stars and Soil (e-book and paperback), and Smoke and Steel (e-book and paperback). All print copies will be signed by the author!
Visit the Shades and Silver: The Audiobook Kickstarter campaign now to learn more.
About the Author
Dax Murray is an award-winning author of revolutionary fantasy that focuses on trauma, healing, and leftist political advancement. After realizing their dream of being a curmudgeonly hedgewitch in the woods of Western Pennsylvania was not possible due to the construction of an outlet mall, Dax took up a new form of sorcery, where they whispered to rocks in arcane languages and taught them how to spy on you, colloquially known as software engineering.But this new career lead to an epic battle between the valiant forces of Ethics and all-powerful legion of Student Loan Payments, and Dax left that behind to join the magical order of word-placing. Today, they can be found waiting on the god (ie: cat) who has allowed them to live in their abode and use their word-magic to make others cry.
Learn more at DaxMurray.com, and be sure to sign up for Dax's Diatribes (via website pop-up or sign-up form at bottom of left column on the website) to get exclusive sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes looks, and exclusive updates from Dax Murray, including a free copy of Scorched Scars, a novella set in the world of Scions and Shadows, and Shrouded Sight, a short story anthology set in the world of Scions and Shadows.
Victory Island: Small-town romances from author Jennie Atkins
- Moonlight Cowboy - Book 1 in the Series
- The Warrior's B & B - Book 2 in the Series
Moonlight Cowboy
Book 1 of the Victory Island SeriesGenre: Small Town Romance
5.0 stars, 9 ratings
From $1.99
I’m Daniel Gallagher, an art teacher by day and a world-famous artist by night. I’d do anything to reboot my life after the death of my wife. So when my private investigator friend asks me to do him a favor, I jump at the chance to escape to the small island town of Victory. Big mistake.The woman I’m to monitor works at the island’s art gallery and has island residents wondering where she’s getting the money for her extravagant shopping sprees.
As I get to know her, I discover two things. One, falling for the gallery assistant is not in my job description. And two, there is a reason I should have left my gumshoes at home—especially when the secrets I discover have nothing to do with the secret missions of mercy she carries out for her employer but have the ability to yank the moorings out from under her.
Praise for Moonlight Cowboy
★★★★★ "A beautiful story with threads of romance and mystery." ~Goodreads Review
★★★★★ "An excellent choice for a feel-good love story with memorable characters and a charming setting." ~Amazon Review
The Warrior's B & B
Book 2 of the Victory Island SeriesGenre: Small Town Romance
New release: October 14, 2024
From $1.99
Sage Johnson decided whom she intended to marry at the ripe old age of eight years old. Too bad the groom-to-be, her dearest childhood friend Derick Rogers, didn’t have a clue.Twenty years later, Derick is halfway around the world fighting for his country, and Sage is a physical therapist and the new owner of her grandparent’s bed-and-breakfast—not the life she’d envisioned. Especially when Derick appears at her B & B blinded and bruised by an IED explosion and needing her help. In a panic, she lies about who she is and introduces herself as Abbi Johnson.
She could get away with it, right? What could go wrong? Everything!
About the Author
Once a Financial Systems Business Analyst, Jennie Atkins can finally devote her time to a lifelong dream of being a writer. Native Ohioans, Jennie and her husband of almost 50 years picked up their Ohio roots and retired to the Smokey Mountains where she writes from the confines of her She Shed with a stash of chocolates at her side. Learn more at JennieAtkins.com and sign up for her newsletter to get free copies of the first two chapters of The Warrior's B & B, as well as advanced notices on special offers and upcoming releases. Be sure to also follow Jennie online:
Get Avenging Love & the Trinitarian Knights Collection from author Kevin Mansoor
★★★★★ "Kevin puts you right in the middle of what's happening. So many emotions...anger, fear, humor...I even laughed out loud." ~Amazon Review
Avenging Love
Book 1 of The Trinitarian Knights CollectionGenre: Epic Fantasy
4.4 stars, 59 ratings
Paperback: $14.99
Ebook: FREE
Within the enchanted realms of imagination, Kevin Mansoor artfully crafts tales that whisk readers away to worlds where reality melds seamlessly with fantasy. His quill, touched by moonlight, breathes life into imaginative characters that leap off the page, conjuring epic adventures that push boundaries and urge readers to embrace the extraordinary.Enter the international best-selling debut of the Trinitarian Knights Collection, Avenging Love, a journey that propels readers into a realm uncannily similar to our own. Yet, for David, the boundaries between dimensions blur, revealing a world coexisting with angels and demons. Amid this duality, his heartache stems from the loss of his beloved wife, Sarah, taken from him by the demon dimension three years past.
David, alongside his guilt-laden Saint Bernard, Duke, embarks on a quest to avenge their love and find solace for their tormented souls. Though the path ahead is clear, it leads through the very gates of Hell itself.
Can David break free from the clutches of the tequila bottle he's hidden behind for years? Will the enigmatic 2000-year-old Emma guide him to heed his heart's call? And when David enters an unwinnable battle, will the Archangel Michael stand by his side?
Through a riveting journey, David and Duke confront their deepest personal demons. Join them as they traverse a perilous path, facing their own shadows head-on in a tale that resonates with both heartache and hope. Get your copy of this international best-seller for FREE today!
Praise for Avenging Love
Ranked #1 in its category in seven different Amazon markets/countries and has never left the top 50 in its category on Amazon in the United States.
The Trinitarian Knights Collection Special Edition Boxed Set
Genre: Epic FantasyPrice: $5.49 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
This special edition boxed set includes all three novels in the series, plus a novella and exclusive bonus content that delves deeper into the characters and events of this epic saga.Embark on an unforgettable journey through the realms of Heaven, Earth, and Hell with the complete Trinitarian Knights Collection, which includes:
- Avenging Love (Book 1): See description, above.
- Behind the Bravery (a bonus-content short): Get the perspective of Duke, David's canine companion in Avenging Love.
- Protecting Love (a novella): Before Avenging Love, a tormented David battles to protect his family. Plagued by nightmarish visions, he confronts a sinister offer that could silence the demons within.
- The Deception of Fear (Book 2): David's illusion of tranquility shatters when a nemesis, long believed dead, appears on his doorstep, igniting a maelstrom of mystery and fear.
- Buried Within (Book 3): A creeping darkness threatens to engulf the world as David's closest ally, the fallen Archangel Michael, prepares for a long-foretold battle.
About the Author
Kevin's literary journey is driven by a deep passion to not just tell stories, but to fully immerse readers in them. Learn more at KevinMansoor.com. Be sure to also sign up for his newsletter and to follow him online:
New Release: Landed from Jennifer Lang & Vine Leaves Press
Congratulations to Jennifer Lang and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Landed: A yogi's memoir in pieces and poses, in which the author explores her sense of home through her experiences in Israel, a cross-cultural marriage, and yoga teachings, ultimately discovering that true home lies within oneself.
★★★★★ "Lyrical. Poignant. Funny." ~Sarah Tuttle-Singer, author of Jerusalem, Drawn and Quartered
Landed: A yogi's memoir in pieces and poses
NEW RELEASE: October 15, 2024Genre: Memoir, Creative Nonfiction
4.74 stars, 23 ratings on Goodreads
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: From $6.49
American-born Jennifer traces her journey—both on and off the yoga mat—reckoning with her adopted country (Israel), midlife hormones (merciless), cross-cultural marriage (to a Frenchman), and their imminent empty nest (a mixed blessing), eventually realizing the words her yoga teachers had been offering for the past twenty-three years: root down into the ground and stay true to yourself. Finally, she understands that home is about who you are, not where you live.
Written in experimental chapterettes, Landed spans seven years (and then some), each punctuated with chakra wisdom from nationally-acclaimed Rodney Yee, Jennifer's first teacher.
If you enjoyed You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith, The Art of Leaving by Ayelet Tsabari, The Postcard by Anne Berest, Bluets by Maggie Nelson, or Belonging or Diaries of War by Nora Krug, you will love Landed.
Praise for Landed
★★★★★ “Crisp, witty, heartfelt.” ~Dawn Raffel, author of Boundless as the Sky
★★★★★ “Imaginative and inspiring.” ~Elisa Bernick, author of Departure Stories
★★★★★ “Real, heartfelt, and captivating.” ~Terri L. Orbuch, Ph.D., author of 5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage from Good to Great
★★★★★ “A must-read for anyone seeking a profound understanding of the human spirit in a world of turmoil.” ~Sarah Tuttle-Singer, author of Jerusalem, Drawn and Quartered
About the Author
California-born Jennifer Lang lives in Tel Aviv, where she runs Israel Writers Studio. Her prize-winning essays appear in Baltimore Review, Under the Sun, Midway Journal, and elsewhere. A Pushcart Prize, Best of Net, and Best American Essays nominee, she holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and served as an Assistant Editor at Brevity. Her first book, Places We Left Behind: a memoir-in-miniature, was a finalist in multiple awards including the Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards. Landed: A yogi's memoir in pieces & poses is Jennifer's second book. A longtime yogi and yoga instructor, her greatest passion is YogaProse: Using Your Practice to Write Your Story. Learn more at IsraelWriterStudio.com.
About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent. Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com.
Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Mystery & more from Rachel E. Croxton
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Rachel E. Croxton, author of fantasy, horror, paranormal, mystery, and romance stories for young adults and readers of all ages. Read on to learn more.
★★★★★ “Croxton's writing has vivid descriptions and creative flourishes that paint a world both alien and mesmerizingly familiar, appealing directly to the heart of fantasy lovers." ~Amazon Review
The Dark Prince of Lazera
Genres: Teen & Young Adult Fantasy Romance, Teen & Young Adult Sword & Sorcery Fantasy4.4 stars, 100+ ratings
From $2.99
Simina, a poor girl in the small village of Lazera on the planet Zormonia, loves to read books. The stories take her to distant lands and allow her to imagine herself in a different world, a different life. Her favorite things to read are fairy tales and romance novels.One day, she discovers an intriguing new book: The Dark Prince of Lazera. It tells of an evil, dark prince who possesses dark magic. Simina does not believe the dark prince is real...until a fateful encounter that causes Simina's life to change in unexpected ways.
★★★★★ “Perfect for anyone who loves a good mix of mystery, fantasy, and unexpected twists." ~Goodreads Review
Mutated Files: Case One
Genres: Teen & Young Adult Zombie Fiction, Teen & Young Adult Science FictionNew release: September 30, 2024
From $2.99
Eighteen-year-old Carol Tyson's life takes a sudden turn when she discovers a poster in her missing father's belongings that comes to life, warning her of an imminent apocalypse. To find her father, who may hold the key to stopping the catastrophe, Carol must journey into a future overrun by zombies and mutants. But as she and her allies face this dystopian world, a far greater evil lurks in the shadows, threatening everything. ★★★★★ “An engaging story, unique concepts...making it fun to read." ~Amazon Review
Blu Rain
Genres: Paranormal Vampire Romance, Bisexual Romance4.4 stars, 50+ ratings
From $2.99
Most well-known for his role as King Nar's Royal Adviser, Blu Coloure puts on the facade of a cool, calm, and calculated individual. He's neat, articulate, and proper, like a noble should be. But his orderly world is shattered one night when he finds himself dying on the street, bathed in blood.The next morning, he discovers he's still alive...but only partially. Tainted with the curse of vampirism, Blu begins his painful transition. He gets help from an odd man who seems to hide quite a few secrets, but Blu must fight every day to survive as the hunters will stop at nothing to destroy all vampires and the werewolves are itching for any reason to start a war.
★★★★★ “Perfect for supernatural, action and romance fans." ~Goodreads Review
About the Author
Rachel E. Croxton has been writing since the age of eleven. She fell in love with it, and hasn't been able to stop since. She enjoys writing all kinds of genres from fantasy to sci-fi, horror and romance. In her spare time, she enjoys watching her favorite TV shows. Her inspiration comes from a lifelong interest in magic, folklore, and the paranormal. Learn more at rcroxtonbooks.com, sign up for her newsletter (at the bottom of any page on her website), and be sure to also follow her online:
Fun RomComs from author Abby Greyson
Get A Not So Merry Ex-Mas, a new release from Abby Greyson, author of sweet-and-swoony romances. This sweet, second-chance, holiday romantic comedy is part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses series (12 books in total!).
Be sure to also check out other fun RomComs from Abby, including I'd Never Date my Brother's Best Friend and Accidentally In Love with my Best Friend's Brother. Read on to learn more.
“Being a bright spot in someone's day should be your goal. It doesn't have to be big—a smile or a hello will do.” ~Abby Greyson
A Not So Merry Ex-Mas
New release: October 2, 2024Part of the Sweet Christmas Kisses series
4.7 stars, 127 ratings
From $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
For years I've been dreaming of a real Christmas back home. Tree trimming, decorating, Christmas carols. What I wasn't expecting was Cole.If I was to dream up the perfect man, it would be Cole Nichols: tall, broad shoulders, smile to die for, and dreamy green eyes that held a mischievous glint. Add in a heart of gold and always helping others in need.
We had planned out every detail of our lives together…including his dream of becoming a major league pitcher. So 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 heading back home to start my life over. That new start begins with Christmas at my best friend’s cabin…and the man I’ve done everything to leave behind.
This is a sweet, kisses only, holiday romantic comedy featuring a second chance, close proximity, enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, slow burn, and a happily-ever-after ending.
★★★★★ "Abby Greyson cleverly mixes romance and humor, and shows how two seemingly completely different people can complement each other perfectly." ~Goodreads Review
I'd Never Date My Brother's Best Friend
Book 1 in the Bake My Day With Love series4.3 stars, 235 ratings
From $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A movie star, a grump next door, and a dating experiment gone awry.My brother’s best friend has always been a gorgeous thorn in my side. He’s the famous Sean O’Connell, rom-com celebrity, owner of a smile that can melt even the coldest of hearts. He’s one of the happiest people I’ve ever met, and to be honest, it’s annoying. I don’t have to be happy or like people. I’m good, thank you very much.
But Sean thinks I need to be happy, so he recruited my best friend and my brother to put the Get-Jessica-A-Man plan into action. A makeover and some speed dating were absolutely not on my social calendar. But there’s no stopping Sean once his mind is made up.
As Sean’s sunny disposition starts to rub off on me, I feel myself falling. But for the wrong guy. Is it possible the thorn in my side is actually the rose I’ve been longing for?
★★★★★ "Sweet romance, perfect for teens and others who like clean romances...a funny and enjoyable read with great characters." ~Amazon Review
Accidentally In Love with My Best Friend's Brother
4.5 stars, 392 ratingsFrom $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
My best friend’s annoying brother, some spilled tea, and a crazy proposition.Josh Owen’s is the top receiver in the NFL, with a bad boy reputation. He’s click bait fodder for any, and all, gossip columns.
A newly released video shows us “kissing,” and the news is spreading like wildfire. Now me, "good girl" Brie, is in the rumor mills with him.
His agent sees this as a golden opportunity for Josh to get on better terms with his team. I think it’s crazy, but Josh needs help. So in spite of our love-hate relationship, I agree to be his “girlfriend." But as fake kisses begin to feel more real, I start to wonder: Can the bane of my existence be the one who’s had the key to my heart all along?
★★★★★ "Jam-packed full of banter, cuteness, omg comments, and the most adorable small town Gossip Girl vibes." ~Goodreads Review
Bonus: Two options to get a free e-book by signing up for Abby's newsletter!
About the Author
Abby Greyson loves writing clean, kisses-only, sweet-and-swoony romance stories that invite people to remember what it’s like to fall in love over and over and over again. Stories that make you laugh, root for the main characters, and wonder what they are doing long after the book is finished. On the days Abby isn’t reading or writing, she enjoys spending lazy days with her Mr. Wonderful, her two pups, and watching the Buffalo Bills on a football Sunday. Learn more at AbbyGreyson.com, sign up for her newsletter, and be sure to follow her online:
New release - All Shook Up: Finding Purpose After Traumatic Brain Injury
Congratulations to Debra J. White and Vine Leaves Press on the release of All Shook Up: Finding Purpose After Traumatic Brain Injury. On January 6, 1994, Debbie's life changed when a car accident caused severe brain trauma, transforming her future into one filled with resilience and purpose.
★★★★★ "Debbie's spunk and petulance will drive the reader to laughter despite the tragic circumstances." ~Dr. Fawzia Mail Tung
All Shook Up: Finding Purpose After Traumatic Brain Injury
NEW RELEASE: October 8, 2024Genre: Memoir, Biography, Memory Disorders, Nervous System Diseases
#1 new release in Memory Disorders on Amazon
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: From $6.49
January 6, 1994, started as an uneventful day in Debbie's life, but she doesn't remember.
During a late afternoon walk with her two dogs, Debbie’s life irrevocably changed when she was hit by a car. The impact threw her into a snow-filled ditch, leaving her unconscious and bleeding from severe brain trauma.
Two months later, Debbie returned home to a world that felt foreign. The lingering effects of her brain injury meant she could never work again. She grappled with permanent memory and mobility issues that reshaped her daily existence.
Despite the long and arduous recovery, Debbie found new purpose in life. She embraced creative writing and devoted herself to volunteer work, including working in animal shelters and teaching English to refugees. Surviving on disability payments posed its own challenges, but she persevered.
Though her financial situation is strained, Debbie's heart is fuller than ever. The accident, as devastating as it was, forged her into the person she is today. She cherishes the new path her life has taken and wouldn’t change a thing. Or would she?
Praise for All Shook Up
★★★★★ "Debbie’s story is one of resilience, persistence, healing and a commitment to community service...reminds us that there is no better way to heal than by giving to others." ~Sandy Bahr, Grand Canyon Director of the Sierra Club
★★★★★ "Debra's sense of humor is refreshing. She had the rug pulled out from under her and rose to new heights. She didn’t let her handicaps deter her from bettering the lives of others." ~Nazli Currim, author
★★★★★ "A fascinating look at the life of a strong resilient woman...a must read for those who think they’ve been dealt a bad hand in life." ~Dr. Fawzia Mail Tung
About the Author
Debra White's life changed after a 1994 car accident and traumatic brain injury ended her career. She reinvented herself through volunteer work and writing. Debra has written for Animal Wellness, Arizona Republic, Social Work, Psychology Today, and others. She has also reviewed books, contributed book chapters, and wrote a book for TFH Publications. Learn more at DebraWhite.org.
About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent. Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com.
Spotlight on The Fate of Our Union by Hildebrand Hermannson
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Fate of Our Union, Book 1 in The Fate Series by Hildebrand Hermannson.
"A phenomenal work of high fantasy." ~Self-Publishing Review
The Fate of Our Union
New release: September 24, 2024Genre: High Fantasy, Ancient Historical Fiction, Mythology
4.3 stars, 22 ratings
Hardcover: $19.99
Paperback: $13.99
E-book: $0.99
A miraculous seven-headed horse, a symbol of unity, assembles three struggling youths with extraordinary origins into a journey of self-discovery. There, Sunu the Saxon Poet, Rufus the Roman Stoic, and Keresaspa the Sarmatian Priestess must overcome pride, aversion, and unforgiveness; there they must learn from historical heroes, philosophers, and the gods that strengthen them to battle an unseen monster and its rising wolfmen—dividing the Sons of Man.
Praise for The Fate of Our Union
"Sunu’s character arc, while epic in scope, is charming and fun... There’s also an engaging secondary character in the warrior Keresaspa... An enjoyable, well-researched historical adventure." ~Kirkus Reviews
"A brilliant first piece of a new series that boldly leans into philosophy, anthropology, ethics, history, religion, and magic, for a phenomenal work of high fantasy." ~Self-Publishing Review
"Well-written and thought-provoking." ~Amazon Review
"Perfect for lovers of complex world building, strong historical and mythological themes." ~Goodreads Review
"An epic tale that feels both ancient and timeless." ~Goodreads Review
About the Author
Hildebrand Hengest Hermannson’s deep-rooted fire for Indo-European culture and Western Philosophy ignites his first novel, The Fate of Our Union, the inaugural piece in a planned series. His work draws inspiration from a range of national epics, including The Saga of the Volsungs (Norse), Mahabharata (Indian), Aenid (Roman), Odyssey (Greek), Táin Bó Cúailnge (Celtic), and the Shahnameh (Iranian). He crafts these rich cultures into original stories featuring fantasy world-building, dynamic characters, and intricate plots and themes. His iron weaving is further strengthened by the Stoics, Cynics, and Yogis, who feared not pain, death, or poverty, ordained by the Thunderer and the Fates, and who embraced their destiny like epic heroes. Hildebrand’s Wild Hunt of thought breathes life into his spiritual, ethical, and cultural interests, inspiring us to live in accordance with our immortal heroes and philosophers.
Learn more at hhhermannson.com and be sure to follow him online:
Spotlight on Paula Cappa, author of supernatural, metaphysical & mysterious fiction
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Paula Cappa, award-winning author of supernatural, metaphysical, and mysterious fiction. Paula's novels have earned awards and recognition from the prestigious Eric Hoffer Book Awards, the Global Book Awards, the Chanticleer Book Awards, the American Book Fest Best Books Awards, the Readers' Favorite International Awards, and the Gothic Readers Book Club Awards. If you are not familiar with Paula's work, read on to learn more!
"Paula Cappa is a master of the metaphysical mystery genre." ~Midwest Book Review
Draakensky: A Supernatural Tale of Magick and Romance
New release: September 27, 2024Genre: Ghost Suspense; Horror Suspense; Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Literary Fiction
4.4 stars, 10 ratings
Paperback: $13.99
E-book: From $4.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)
A murder. A wind sorcerer. A dark spirit. On Draakensky, magick dictates destiny.
The Chief of Police discovers an elderly woman dead in the Mianus River. There is a ghost who resides here and flings its words through the spinning air. River magic too, streams across Draakensky Windmill estate, conjuring a secret in Bedford, New York.
Sketch artist Charlotte Knight arrives on Draakensky to a bright opportunity. She is hired to illustrate the poetry of Rainer Maria Rilke under the direction of Jaa Morland, the recluse spinster of Draakensky. Jaa, a believer in ghosts, instructs Charlotte to ‘draw the ghosts.’
From the first night, Charlotte hears the watery voice of Draakensky’s ghost speak to her. Sinister dark eyes watch at the window. Fear mounts when a strange man stalks her through the village cemetery and shops. When a wicked force of nature strikes Charlotte, warning her to flee Draakensky, she is shaken to the bone.
Needing solid ground, Charlotte meets the local restaurant owner, Marc Sexton, who knows the ghostly Otherworld and the magickal practices from his Celtic ancestry; he sports a silver wolf amulet at his neck. Their romance takes Charlotte into a piercing adventure through darkness and doubt, passion and aching love.
As dark magick accelerates on Draakensky, Charlotte is driven into realms of owl magick, witchcraft, and necromancy. She battles her own fear of ghosts and wrestles with how to trust Marc Sexton, a man with hidden realities.
If magick is destiny, then Charlotte must survive the world of ghosts or surrender to a more powerful source in this literary tale of mystery, sorcery, and love.
If you enjoy Gothic fiction like Woman in Black by Susan Hill or The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson, you will enjoy Draakensky.
Praise for Draakensky
★★★★★ "An immersive novel weaving magic and romance into a tapestry of fantasy, poetry, and horror.." ~Richard Thomas, Bram Stoker Award Finalist.
★★★★★ "Intricately crafted and lavishly realized...a feast for lovers of the modern gothic." ~Christopher Hawkins, author of Downpour
★★★★★ "A gorgeous, gothic novel that has all the potential to become a modern classic. Dripping with dark, delicious prose and packed with sinful secrets and intricate lore." ~Stephen Black, author of The Famine Witch
★★★★★ "Dazzling storytelling! A stunning, adventurous, romantic fantasy!" ~Carol B Allen, Amazon Bestselling Author & Global Gold Medal Award Winner of the Sci-Fi Fantasy Virago Trilogy
"A novel steeped in the rich dual attractions of Gothic romance and ghosts.." ~Midwest Book Review
"Spine-tingling, atmospheric mystery." ~San Diego Book Review
Greylock
Genre: Ghost Suspense, Horror Fiction, Ghost Thrillers4.2 stars, 127 ratings
From: $2.99
Pianist Alexei Georg harbors a dark secret. He is haunted by a creature of darkness that relentlessly pursues him from Boston to Russia to Mt. Greylock. Whenever Alexei performs an old Russian sonata, a menacing presence appears in the audience, in the aisle, and on the stage with him. Is there a ghost inside Alexei's music?
When Alexei's wife, Carole Anne, a prima ballerina is found murdered, Alexei becomes the prime suspect. Trapped in an unhappy marriage, broken by secrets and obsession, Alexei flees Boston to Russia. But Alexei cannot flee the supernatural powers living within his music.
Alone on the summit of Mt. Greylock, Alexei escapes into an affair with the ravishing Lia Marrs. But the creature of darkness knows no bounds. Alexei must find a way to halt the dark force threatening his life or become a prisoner to its power.
Praise for Greylock
Gold Medal Winner, Global Book Awards.
Chanticleer Book Award Winner, First Place.
Best Book Award Finalist, American Book Fest.
"A plot replete with all the wonderful trappings of a romance-laced mystery with unexpected twists and turns." ~U.S. Review of Books.
"A smart, entertaining supernatural thriller. Think Stephen King meets Raymond Chandler with a score by Tchaikovsky." ~David Corbett, best-selling author of The Mercy of the Night
Night Sea Journey, A Tale of the Supernatural
Genre: Ghost Suspense, Horror Fiction, Ghost Thrillers4.1 stars, 98 ratings
From: $2.99
From the land of ghosts, a dark and powerful visitor invades a woman’s consciousness. This is a tale of angels and demons, supernatural forces, murder, and the power of love.
Artist Kip Livingston is haunted. Each night, a winged creature invades her dreams and drags her to the bottom of a ghost-grey sea. Even Kip's Jungian therapist, Dr. Laz Merlyn, cannot help Kip out of this ghostly world. Then she meets the charming but lost Raymond Kera. Raymond can't resist the seductive Kip. When Raymond is drawn into Kip’s night sea journeys, her nightmare becomes his own.
Can Raymond rescue Kip? What risks will he have to take? Or will Kip pay the ultimate price?
Praise for Night Sea Journey
Eric Hoffer Book Award Winner
Silver Medal Winner, Global Book Awards
"Stunning and absorbing plot on par with—if not better than—a Dan Brown novel." ~U.S. Review of Books
"A continual thrill ride, impossible to put down, a fast-paced thriller." ~San Francisco Book Review
The Dazzling Darkness
Genre: Occult Suspense, Ghost Thrillers, Ghost Suspense3.9 stars, 370 ratings
From: $2.99
A mysterious cemetery. An ancient secret. A little boy, lost.
Elias Hatch protects the secrets of Old Willow Cemetery and the enchanted woods that host the spirits of Emerson, Thoreau, and Alcott.
On a cold March afternoon, five-year-old Henry Brooke goes missing. Elias cannot fathom how the boy got inside the cemetery's locked gates, unless...
Henry's parents are frantic as the days pass in a futile search of the cemetery gardens for their little boy. They face their deepest fears—is their child dead? Alive? Where is he? Matters are made worse by a series of ominous hauntings and the horror that their Henry will never be returned.
Detective Mike Balducci suspects the truth lies in the shadowy apparitions drifting through the oaks and elms. An Emerson enthusiast, Mike uses his transcendental instincts to hunt, chase, and track the leads to locate little Henry. But to do so, he must combat a power source far stronger than he's ever imagined.
Set against the metaphysical world of Concord, Massachusetts' historical Transcendentalist philosophy that still pervades modern society in Concord, this supernatural mystery is about a family who confronts the secrets of the dead and everlasting hope.
Praise for The Dazzling Darkness
Gold Medal Winner, Global Book Awards
Bronze Medal Winner, Readers' Favorite International Book Awards
Gothic Readers Book Club Choice Award Winner
“A lovely mesh of mystery and the supernatural." ~Leigh M. Lane, author of Finding Poe
“An adventure into dark and mysterious places.” ~Cathryn McIntyre, author of Honor in Concord
"The spirit of Dan Brown meets the darkest and most somber ruminations of Ralph Waldo Emerson." ~Jonathan Stone, author of The Cold Truth
About the Author
Paula Cappa is author of four novels and recipient of multiple book awards, including the prestigious Eric Hoffer Book Award. Her short fiction has appeared in The Lorelei Signal, ParABnormal Magazine, Coffin Bell Literary Journal, Unfading Daydream, Dark Gothic Resurrected Magazine, Whistling Shade Literary Journal, SmokeLong Quarterly, Sirens Call Ezine, Every Day Fiction, Fiction365, Twilight Times Ezine, and in anthologies Journals of Horror: Found Fiction, Mystery Time, and Human Writes Literary Journal. Many of her published short stories are now Kindle Singles. Paula is also Co-Chair of the Pound Ridge Authors Society in Pound Ridge, NY. Learn more at Paula's website and be sure to follow her online:
Get The Chimera Snare: Fragments - Book 1 of a new dark fantasy series
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Chimera Snare: Fragments, the recently released first book of a new dark fantasy series from authors S & E Black.
★★★★★ "A riveting journey into the realm of mystical secrets." ~Amazon Review
BONUS: Enter a giveaway on Facebook or Instagram to win one of two handmade and signed art prints!
The Chimera Snare: Fragments
Book 1 in a Dark Fantasy SeriesNew release: August 17, 2024
4.7 stars, 12 ratings
Special editions, signed copies & gifts at Clay Urn Publishing
Paperback: $24.99 from Amazon
Ebook: $4.99 from Amazon
High school chaos clashes with an other-worldly feud as two earthbound teenagers work together to thwart a reality-bending showdown.The Chimera Snare: Fragments plunges the reader into the middle of an otherworldly feud between the distant realms of Celestine and Daeva. Notable characters from each realm are vying for the possession of a powerful set of artifacts known as The Order of Existence that grants the user control over all reality. While the Celestines have established themselves as the guardians of The Order, a sect within the persecuted realm of Daeva aims to assume control of it and exact a long-awaited vengeance.
When two Celestine guardians are expelled from their realm and trapped within the bodies of two earthbound teenagers, a race begins between the feuding realms: Will the Celestines find a way to free their guardians, or will the Daeva succeed in their quest to alter the fabric of existence?
Meanwhile on Earth, high schoolers and best friends Rayshell and Trish are thrust into the story when they realize that they are living vessels in this realm for the two banished Celestine guardians, putting Rayshell and Trish in a race against time to connect with the Celestines before the Daeva find them.
The Clay Urn Publishing Store
In addition to signed and limited edition copies of The Chimera Snare, Clay Urn Publishing offers a variety of artisan gifts, including a Triple Moon Pendant, hand-painted artwork, fragrances in the form of artisan candles, soaps, and incense, and other curated goods. Visit Clay Urn Publishing to learn more.
About the Authors
Shannon Vierra is an urban gardener and avid seed collector—last clocked in with over 3500 different varieties. In the makeup community, Shannon goes by zoomzoommacaron where she collaborates with fellow MUAS across the world. She hosts a monthly zombie-themed makeup group called the #zombabescollab and adores SFX and other creative makeup. Shannon is also the owner of ShopCorpsicle which specializes in handmade props, fake food, miniatures, prosthetics, and other accessories. She uses the alias Silence In Shadows for her traditional art. 
Edward Ayllon first discovered the joys of creative writing through his early high school studies, and has spent many years exploring and developing a deep appreciation for the arts. Since first collaborating with his wife, Shannon, he has sprouted a passion and true affinity for storytelling and crafting literature. In addition to refining his skill in creating written works, his other interests include playing bass guitar, listening to music, and dabbling in photography.Shannon and Edward write together as S&E Black, and The Chimera Snare: Fragments was released on August 17, 2024, which was their anniversary. (Happy Anniversary, Shannon and Edward!) Both are originally from California and now live in the Chicago area with an a clowder of rescue cats. Learn more at TheChimeraSnare.com.
About Clay Urn Publishing
Clay Urn Publishing LLC, co-founded in 2023 by Edward Ayllon and Shannon Vierra, is home to The Chimera Snare series and is open to other imaginative and captivating literary works. Committed to supporting independent voices, this publishing house seeks to create a platform where unique stories can flourish. Clay Urn has also developed a creative way to promote animal welfare and independent animal rescue organizations. Visit ClayUrnPublishing.com to learn more, and be sure to follow Clay Urn online:
New release: A Ben & Blue Mystery for young readers
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Ben & Blue: Searching for Lucky #3002, a new mystery for young readers ages 8 - 12 from author Ellen Melissa Cohen and Red Chair Press.
★★★★★ "Educational and told from the heart." ~Readers Favorite
BONUS: Get the FREE Discussion Guide for educators and parents.
Ben & Blue: Searching for Lucky #3002
NEW RELEASE: October 1, 2024Genre: Juvenile fiction (Ages 8-12, Grades 3-6)
Available in hardcover, softcover, audiobook, and e-book from $8.99
Ben knows only three things about his dad: 1) he has green eyes, 2) he has a number, and 3) at one point in his life, he made a deposit at a bank.
Ben’s mom is usually good about answering Ben's questions. But not this one. So, when Ben is assigned a family tree project at school, he confronts his mom (for the zillionth time), and instead of telling Ben the truth, she buys him a dog (Blue).
With the dreaded day of oral reports looming, Ben enlists the help of his best friend, Cooper, and Blue to uncover his dad’s whereabouts and complete his family tree. But what Ben discovers is stranger than anything he could have ever imagined. And to make matters worse, Blue’s former owner enters the story and unusual things start to happen.
Praise for Ben & Blue
"This sweet story tackles the complicated topic of nontraditional families with sensitivity and humor. An excellent read for middle grade readers and their parents looking for suspense, action, and uplifting entertainment." ~Lisa Parker Hayreh, Independent Book Review full review
"Combining the very adult topic of donor-conceived birth with a fun mystery for youngsters...was a stroke of genius on the part of this author." ~Feathered Quill Book Reviews full review
"An outstanding addition to middle-grade fiction. A heartwarming, insightful, and thoroughly enjoyable read that both children and adults will appreciate." ~Literary Titan full review
"Heartfelt and full of surprises." ~Courtney Sheinmel, author of My So-Called Family
(Spoiler Alert!) "A solid introduction...for elementary readers into what it means to be born by sperm donation." ~Booklist
"An informative and engaging story about reproduction and a different, more scientific, approach to how babies are made. Told in simple language so young readers can follow along. Educational and told from the heart." ~Readers Favorite
2024 International Book Awards: Finalist for Best in Children's Fiction
About the Author
Ellen Melissa Cohen, M.D. is a psychiatrist on faculty at Harvard Medical School and a board member of the New England Society of Clinical Hypnosis. She graduated Barnard College as a creative writing major before going to medical school. Her short story “The Mystery of the Northern Lights” was published in the Nancy Drew Anthology (Silver Birch Press; 2016). Ellen lives with her husband near Boston, Massachusetts. Learn more at EllenMelissaCohen.com.About the Illustrator
Donald Wu was born in Hong Kong and grew up in Oakland, California. His passion for drawing and comic books led him to attend California College of the Arts where he studied illustration. Donald currently lives in the San Francisco Bay area with his wife, Leanne, son, daughter, and dog. Learn more at DonaldWu.com.About the Publisher
Red Chair Press is committed to learning and literacy (and laughter!). Founded in 2009, Red Chair Press has been dedicated to publishing series to engage children in stories that provide models for strong character and good behavior. By working with only the highest-quality artists from around the world, Red Chair Press ensures that their books will appeal to a wide range of readers. Learn more at RedChairPress.com, and be sure to follow them online:
Coming Oct. 1: Martha's Notebook, Book 1 of a new Zombie Apocalypse Trilogy
We're just 2 days away from the release of Martha's Notebook by C. Fulster, the first book of a new zombie apocalypse trilogy that includes a viral outbreak, zombies, and AI gone wrong. Pre-order now to get your copy on October 1.
Bonus: Get the e-book for a special price of $2.99 now through October 5. (After that, the e-book will be available at a regular price of $4.99.)
Martha's Notebook
New release coming October 1, 2024Special pre-order price: $2.99
Before the incident, Martha’s biggest worry was her parents’ divorce. Now she’s hiding from a zombie horde hell-bent on annihilating humankind nicknamed “Chippers.”
But this attack wasn’t spurred by a viral outbreak. Instead, these zombies seem to be puppets of an AI technology gone rogue, and with every day that passes, it’s learning more about how to accomplish its sinister goal.
But why is an AI creating, controlling, and upgrading zombies—and more importantly, how do you stop an ultra-intelligent, world-ending technology that can shift course at a moment’s notice?
Only one thing is clear: there’s no going back.
Martha’s Notebook is the electrifying first installment of a new sci-fi horror trilogy that will keep you on the edge of your seat with every twist. Jam-packed with survival, suspense, and existential dread, it’s sure to satisfy any post-apocalyptic fiction enthusiast.
About the Author
C. Fulster is a seasoned electrician, devoted husband, and new father who moonlights as an award-winning writer, producer, and illustrator. He has sixteen children’s books, three animated screenplays, and one internationally acclaimed short film under his belt, and he has donated the proceeds of five picture books to charity.In his free time, he can be found indulging his passions for hockey, spicy food, and relaxing. He currently resides in Colorado with his beautiful wife, adorable daughter, and their two dogs. Learn more at cfulster.com where you can also sign up for his newsletter (scroll to the bottom on any page on his website), and be sure to follow him online:
Spotlight on the work of Lancelot Schaubert: "Conviction but without the cliché and bluster."
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Lancelot Schaubert, author, editor, and producer of albums, films, and photo novels. The works in today's special edition newsletter run the gamut from science fiction to humor to social commentary. Read on to learn more.
“Lancelot Schaubert writes with conviction but without the cliché and bluster of the propaganda that is so common in this age of blogs and tweets. Here is a real practitioner of the craft who has the patience to pay attention." ~Jonathan Wilson Hartgrove, bestselling author of Common Prayer and The Awakening of Hope
Of Gods and Globes
A collection of three anthologiesGenre: Science Fiction
Series: $11.97 for all three e-books (individual titles from $3.99)
Author and editor Lancelot Schaubert rounded up sci-fi and fantasy writers to write about cosmic influence. The fantasy writers took a more mythological approach, speaking of the symbolic (or perhaps godly) Mercury and Mars and Neptune. The sci-fi writers tell you what it’s like to live on Jupiter and Uranus. All of them, though, speak of the influence of what one writer called "the music of the spheres."
Books in the Series:
- Of Gods and Globes: A Cosmic Anthology
- Of Gods and Globes II: A Cosmic Anthology
- Of Gods and Globes III: Trigger Warnings and The Abyss
Praise for contributors to the Of Gods and Globes anthologies
"As in all her books, Juliet Marillier shows the strength and power that women can control regardless of their place in the world or society in which they are born." ~TOR
"Cohen has real talent with character development and interaction and prickly, defensive, sympathetic heroins." ~BookLife
"Schaubert’s words have an immediacy, a potency, an intimacy that grab the reader by the collar and say ‘Listen, this is important!’” ~Erika Robuck, author of Hemingway’s Girl
Bell Hammers: The True Folk Tale of Little Egypt
Genre: Humor, Historical Fiction4.2 stars, 133 ratings
From: $0.99
Pranks. Oil. Protest. Jokes between newlyweds. And one hilarious siege of a major corporation.
Remmy grows up with Beth in Bellhammer, Illinois, as oil and coal companies rob the land of everything that made it paradise. Under his Grandad, Remmy learns how to properly prank his neighbors, friends, and foes.
Beth tries to fix Remmy by taking him to church. Under his Daddy, Remmy starts the Bell Hammer Construction Company, which depends on contracts from Texarco Oil.
Together, Remmy and Beth start to build a great neighborhood of "merry men" carpenters: a paradise of s’mores, porch furniture, newborn babies, and summer trips to Branson. Then a faulty Texarco oil derrick falls down on their house and poisons their neighborhood's well.
Poisoned wells escalate to torched dog houses, stolen carpentry tools, cancelled contracts, and eminent domain claims. Sick of the attacks from Texarco Oil on his neighborhood, Remmy assembles his merry men: "We need the world's greatest prank. One grand glorious jest that'll bloody the nose of that tyrant."
Praise for Bell Hammers
"A Tree Grows in Brooklyn as told by Gabriel Garcia Marquez if Marquez lived in rural Illinois and only told stories to his grandkids. Seriously a delight to read." ~Colby Williams, author of Small Town, Big Money
"Humor, compassion, and heart." ~Brian Slatterly, editor of The New Haven Review
"Emotionally stirring with both a vulnerable sensibility and rawness." ~Natalie Gee, Brooklyn Film Festival
Least of These Least
Genre: Local U.S. Politics, Christian Liberation Theology, Christian Monasticism & AsceticismFrom: $0.99
Least of these least. The biblical verse fills us with dread: Where have we overlooked the hungry, the sick, the refugee, the homeless, the naked, the prisoner? When have we neglected to quench, feed, heal, host, and visit?
The dread grows: When, specifically, have we done so to Jesus himself? What have you done for Him through those you have every right to hate, shame, mistrust, avoid, or resent?
Praise for Least of These Least
"Lancelot Schaubert writes with conviction but without the cliché and bluster of the propaganda that is so common in this age of blogs and tweets." ~Jonathan Wilson Hartgrove, author of Common Prayer and The Awakening of Hope
About the Author
Lancelot Schaubert is author of the novel Bell Hammers, dozens of stories, and hundreds of poems and essays. He edits The Showbear Family Circus (which, in its heyday, published more than 500 works from 400+ renowned academics, artists, and authors), as well as the anthology series Of Gods and Globes. Lancelot also performs songs from All Who Wander, delivers keynote speeches and narrations, and produces photo novels, short films, and theatrical productions. Learn more at LanceSchaubert.org, sign up for his newsletter (scroll down to "Newsletter Signup" on his home page), and follow him online:
Spotlight on award-winning author Julie Ryan McGue
Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Julie Ryan McGue, an award-winning author who writes about finding out who you are, where you belong, and making sense of it all.
“An inspirational story of perseverance and resiliency...about the discoveries that searching for the truth reveals—how it sets you free and offers the gift of love.” ~Linda Joy Myers, founder of the National Association of Memoir Writers and author of Don’t Call Me Mother
Twice a Daughter: A Search for Identity, Family, and Belonging
Genre: Memoir, Creative Nonfiction, Adoption, Parenting, Personal Transformation4.5 stars, 1000+ ratings
From: $12.99
Julie is adopted. She is also a twin. Because their adoption was closed, she and her sister lack both a health history and their adoption papers—which becomes an issue for Julie when, at forty-eight years old, she finds herself facing several serious health issues.
To launch the probe into her closed adoption, Julie first needs the support of her sister. The twins talk things over, and make a pact: Julie will approach their adoptive parents for the adoption paperwork and investigate search options, and the sisters will split the costs involved in locating their birth relatives. But their adoptive parents aren’t happy that their daughters want to locate their birth parents—and that is only the first of many obstacles Julie will come up against as she digs into her background.
Julie’s search for her birth relatives spans eight years and involves a search agency, a private investigator, a confidential intermediary, a judge, an adoption agency, a social worker, and a genealogist. By journey’s end, what began as a simple desire for a family medical history has evolved into a complicated quest—one that unearths secrets, lies, and family members that are literally right next door.
Praise for Twice a Daughter
"An engaging, endearing chronicle of a woman’s quest to find her origins." ~Kirkus Reviews
"A compelling, poignant memoir about the search for truth and belonging." ~Readers' Favorite
Awards:
- National Indie Excellence Awards Finalist in Parenting & Family
- International Book Awards Winner in Parenting & Family
- International Book Awards Finalist in Best New Nonfiction, Nonfiction: Narrative, and Women’s Issues / Women’s Studies
- Independent Press Awards Distinguished Favorite in Parenting & Family
- CIBA Nellie Bly Book Awards Finalist
- NYC Big Book Awards Winner in Personal Growth
- NYC Big Book Awards Distinguished Favorite in Parenting & Family
- Living Now Awards Gold Winner in Memoir—Female
Belonging Matters: Conversations on Adoption, Family, and Kinship
Genre: Nonfiction, Family & Personal Growth, Parent & Adult Child Relationships, Adoption4.9 stars, 25 ratings
From: $0.99
Belonging Matters supports the adoption community while creating a conversation with those not directly touched by adoption. The collection explores the pursuit of identity and the boundaries of family and kinship. It challenges the reader to embrace all of who we come to be, and to discern with whom and where we belong. Because belonging defines the human experience, and it is what nourishes our spirit, fuels us with purpose, and compels us to soar beyond the limitations of our lived experience.
Praise for Belonging Matters
"Rich with compassion and wisdom." ~Midwest Book Review
"A narrative where the pursuit of identity intersects with human connection." ~American Writing Awards Book Reviews
Awards:
- Literary Titan Book Award Winner
- Finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards
- Firebird Book Award Winner
- Finalist in the Annual National Indie Excellence Awards for Book Cover Design and in the Personal Growth category
- Finalist in the International Book Awards in Parenting & Family category
- Nonfiction Winner, Honorable Mention in New York Book Festival
Twice the Family: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Sisterhood
Genre: Memoir, Creative Nonfiction, Adoption, Grief & BereavementNew release coming February 4, 2025
From: $12.99
What is it like to grow up as an adoptee and be raised with your identical twin?
In this coming-of-age memoir, set in Chicago’s western suburbs during the 1960s to 1980s, adopted twin sisters Julie and Jenny become the oldest daughters in a big family made up of a mixture of adopted and biological children. The twins’ sisterly bond is tight as the two strive for individuality, identity, and belonging. But Julie’s parents’ continual addition of adopted and biological children to the family leads to a number of painful experiences: they encounter infertility, infant mortality, a child with special needs, and then, when Julie is sixteen, a sudden family tragedy.
Faced with these challenges, Julie questions everything—who she is, how she fits in, the circumstances of her adoption, where she belongs, her faith and idea of family. As their family values, parental relationships, and sibling bonds are tested, Julie realizes her adoptive family is held together by love, faith, support, and her parents’ commitment to each other and family. But the life her parents have constructed is not one that Julie wants for herself—and as she grows older, she realizes how her parents’ goals and dreams differ from her own, and how the experiences that have formed her have provided a road map for the person and mother she wants to be.
Join author Julie McGue on this journey of identity and individuality, searching for answers through tragedy and adversity.
About the Author
Julie Ryan McGue is an award-winning American writer. Her weekly blogs focus on identity, family, and life's quirky moments. If she's not at her computer writing, she's out exploring with her camera, or on the tennis court. She is the mother of four adult children, a grandmother, and splits her time between NW Indiana and Sarasota. Learn more at JulieMcGueAuthor.com, sign up for her newsletter (see the "Don't Miss a Blog Post" form on her website), and be sure to also follow her online:
New release: Kyd's Game, a thriller from Marc Rosenberg & Vine Leaves Press
Congratulations to Marc Rosenberg and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Kyd's Game, a cross between John le Carre's Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Patricia Highsmith’s The Talented Mr. Ripley.
★★★★★ “A gripping geopolitical spy thriller set against the current Russo-American landscape." ~Peter Watt, author of the Fronteer series
Kyd's Game
NEW RELEASE: September 24, 2024Genre: International Thriller, Suspense, Espionage
4.56 stars, 18 ratings on Goodreads
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: From $6.49
Neil Kyd, accused of assassinating a Russian presidential candidate and hunted by Russian Special Forces, has only one thing on his mind: saving his daughter's life.
Kyd has done everything possible to help his terminally ill daughter. He's out of options when he's recalled by the Agency and offered a special job: a quick "in-and-out" assignment to retrieve a video disk from an ex-girlfriend in Moscow. If he accepts, the Agency will place his daughter into a cutting-edge medical program that will give her a chance. He agrees.
If you If you enjoyed Tinker, Soldier, Tailor, Spy by John leCarre, The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith, or Lee Child's Reacher series, you'll enjoy Kyd's Game.
Praise for Kyd's Game
★★★★★ “A fast-paced espionage thriller.” ~Gerard Lee, author of Top of the Lake
★★★★★ “A classic international thriller. Vivid characters and tight plotting make this a great read.” ~Brian Stoddart, A House in Damascus
★★★★★ “Jack Ryan meets Tucker Jones in the character of Neil Kyd in a story that balances fast-paced spy craft with the tenderness of a father's love for his daughter.” ~Readers’ Favorite
★★★★★ “Riveting, page-turning...will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the shocking conclusion.” ~Feathered Quill, Book Reviews
★★★★★ “Teeming with unexpected twists and turns.” ~The US Review of Books
About the Author
Marc Rosenberg grew up in Texas but has spent more than half his adult life living and working as a screenwriter in Australia. At an early age he became an adventurer, taking a job as an estate agent in London, living for a year on a kibbutz and traveling overland through Asia. Rosenberg has made films with Miles Davis, Daniel Radcliffe, and Jeremy Irons, winning two Australian Writers’ Guild Awards and the Los Angeles Fade-In Grand Prize for Best Original Screenplay. He has contributed to the journal Film International, written a book on screenwriting, The Screenplay Tree, and has taught extensively in the United States, India, China, and Australia. An avid reader, he has a passion for espionage, crime, and authentic character-based literature. Learn more at mrcrsnbrg.com.
About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent. Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com.