Today's Featured Books— Spotlight

Congratulations to Laura Katz Olson and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Wrinkled Rebels, the story of six aging radicals from the 1960s who reunite and grapple with past ideals and present struggles over a weekend.

★★★★★ “Badass.” ~Bill Ayers, political organizer, anti-war activist, author

Wrinkled Rebels

Now 80 years old, retirement and advanced age have dissipated the spirit of six college radicals of the 1960s, who jointly had participated in civil rights campaigns and anti-war protests. Having engaged in only periodic communication over the decades, they suddenly receive an invitation to reunite for an extended weekend. Struggling with whether to go, each of them has divergent qualms and expectations for the proposed gathering.

During their three days together, they confront their inner demons, each other, and their future. Does Rebecca, the prime mover of the event, find solace after losing her wife and career? Can Malaika regain her sense of self after stepping down from her successful law practice? Mourning the loss of her youthful athletic prowess and attractiveness, what happens when Deanna faces her old friends?

Struggling with two divorces and a failing marriage, can Russell attain peace of mind? How will Max, an expat living in Canada, manage with his incipient dementia? Will the demoralized Keith recover his idealism?

Wrinkled Rebels is a story of how six people achieve meaningful lives through the struggle for social justice. It is also a tale of love, the bonds of friendship, and growing old positively.

If you enjoyed the following books, you will love Wrinkled Rebels:

• Rebellion, Love, Betrayal by Jack Heinz
• A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
• The Opposition by Todd Gitlin
• Class Reunion by Rona Jaffe
• Tom Lake by Anne Patchett
• Dollbaby by Laura Lane McNeal

Praise for Wrinkled Rebels
★★★★★ “A warm-hearted, engaging novel of the life-shaping force of 60s activism and its enduring aftermath; a rare treat for those who were there and for those who wish they were.” ~David Farber, author of The Age of Great Dreams

★★★★★ “Capture[s] many of the personal nuances and life complications confronting those who sought so urgently to save the world.” ~Paul Buhle, founding editor of the SDS journal Radical America, retired Senior Lecturer, Brown University

★★★★★ “These badass activists reject the temptation to wallow in recitations of an old despond, or any nostalgia for a ship that’s already left the shore.” ~Bill Ayers, political organizer, anti-war activist, author of Fugitive Days: Memoirs of an Anti-War Activist

★★★★★ “A beautifully crafted work of art. Lovingly constructed characters captivated me from page one. Embedded in this novel is a micro history of the 1960s.” ~George Katsiaficas, political activist, author of The Global Imagination of 1968: Revolution and Counterrevolution

★★★★★ “For those who want to learn about the momentous years of social struggle in the 1960s - the civil rights movement; the anti-Vietnam war movement; the women’s liberation movement – Olson gives an engaging and lively flavor of these events through six different relatable characters.” ~Nancy Rosenstock, author of Inside the Second Wave of Feminism

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on a new children's book from author Daniel Huerga: Frankie the Fart Wants a Friend: A Funny Story of Friendship and Acceptance for Kids, winner of The Golden Wizard Book Prize and a glowing 5-star rating from Readers' Favorite.

Not sure you want a book based on a bodily function? Read on and you'll see why Frankie's story is perfect for kids ages 3 - 7. 

BONUS: Visit the website of Mandu Books to download free coloring pages from the book!

Frankie the Fart Wants a Friend

Meet Frankie, the most amiable puff you'll ever encounter! In this charming picture book, Frankie the Fart is on a quest for companionship. Despite his stinky nature, he's full of heart and ready to show that true friends come in all forms.

Why Kids Will Adore Frankie

• Laugh-Out-Loud Fun: Frankie's antics will have kids giggling from start to finish.
• Colorful Characters: Vibrant illustrations capture Frankie's bubbly personality.
• A Message of Acceptance: Learn that everyone has something special to offer.
• A Symphony of Giggles: The story's playful sounds will have readers erupting with laughter, creating a chorus of chuckles

Ideal for Little Ones

• Perfect for ages 3 to 7.
• A captivating read-aloud that encourages interactive storytelling.
• Embrace the Adventure: Join Frankie as he learns that friendship might just be a giggle away. Grab your copy today and let the fun-filled journey begin!

Praise and Recognition for Frankie

• Winner, The Golden Wizard Book Prize
• 5-star rating from Readers' Favorite
• "This book is a real stinker, but in a good way. Its humorous text and illustrations make it a book your whole family will enjoy reading." ~Kameron Brook, Reedsy Discovery
• "Imagine having Dr. Seuss, Eric Carle, and Maurice Sendak in a room and asking them to collaborate on a children's book. The result would likely resemble Daniel Huerga's Frankie the Fart Wants a Friend. This book is exactly what a children's book should be...a charming and engaging read that will leave both children and adults chuckling and reflecting on the power of acceptance and friendship." ~Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
• "Get ready to giggle your way through this tale of silly farting situations and friendship. The illustrations are beautiful and the humorous text makes this book a delightful read for children." ~Kidliomag Magazine

  

We are LitNuts are very excited about the focus of this special edition newsletter: Get award-winning urban fantasy and paranormal fiction from L.R. Braden, including the first books of two series for only 99 cents! Read on to learn more. 

BONUS: Sign up for the author's newsletter to get the latest updates on up-and-coming projects, events, special offers, new releases, and more. And if you scroll down on the sign-up page, you will also find links to the first chapters of nine novels that you can read for free! 

Demon Riding Shotgun

Possessed by a demon since she was eleven years old, Mira Fuentes maintains a fragile alliance with the snarky soul who shares her body. Together they hunt down unstable Rifters—demon-controlled humans bent on causing chaos in the mortal realm. But when a routine hunt leads to a powerful Rifter with plans for Baltimore, Mira quickly finds herself in over her head and at the top of the city's Most Wanted.

Recently retired from the PTF after losing his partner, Ty Williams now works for the Baltimore PD and keeps his distance from cases involving magic. But when a person dies of clearly magical causes and the PTF doesn’t have any agents to spare, Ty is the closest thing the department has to an expert. Saddled with a new partner he doesn’t want and a mountain of self-doubt, it's his job to track down a suspect who looks suspiciously like the one-night-stand he brought home from the bar last night.

Mira will have to set her trust issues aside and enlist the help of a man determined to uncover her secrets if she hopes to learn the identity of the demon's host and prevent the human race from becoming meat puppets for the denizens of the Rift.

Read Chapter 1.

Praise and Recognition for Demon Riding Shotgun

• Winner of the 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Award, Paranormal category
• Finalist in the 2023 Colorado Book Award, Sci-Fi/Fantasy category
• Winner of the 2022 Colorado Authros League Award for Writing Excellence, Fantasy and Paranormal categories
• "A delightfully tormented anti-heroine with the mother of all inner conflicts." ~Hunter J. Skye, author of the Hell Gate Series
• "A great read for every female lead Urban Fantasy enthusiast." ~NetGalley Review

A Drop of Magic

The war isn't over...

With the world clinging to a fragile peace forced on the Fae by humanity after the Faerie Wars, metalsmith Alex Blackwood is plunged into the world of the half-fae who traffic in illegal magical artifacts. Her best friend’s murder and his cryptic last message place her in the crosshairs of a scheme to reignite the decade-old war between humans and fae.

Worse, violent attacks against her and the arrival of a fae knight on a mission force Alex to face a devastating revelation of who and what she is. To catch a killer, retrieve a dangerous artifact, and stop a war, Alex will have to accept that she’s an unregistered fae “halfer” with a unique magical talent—a talent that would change everything she believes about her past, her art, and her future.

Her world is crumbling around her, and Alex will have to decide who to trust if she and the world are going to survive.

Read Chapter 1.

Praise and Recognition for A Drop of Magic

• Winner of the Eric Hoffer Book Award, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
• Winner of the First Horizon Award for outstanding debut authors
• Winner of the Imadjinn Award for Best Urban Fantasy Novel
• "A thrilling and original fantasy ride.” ~Kate Jonuska, author of Transference
• "A damned fun and original read, with sass, action, hot men, and a whole lot of magic.” ~Diana Pharaoh Francis, author of the Diamond City Magic and Horngate Witches Series

Lies and Illusion

Diplomacy has never been Alex’s strong suit…

When the vampire council puts Alex and James on trial for exposing the species’ existence to the world, Alex's freedom and James's life hang in the balance, though Alex suspects James’s new daywalking ability is the real aim of their inquisition.

Any hope of talking their way out of hot water evaporates when one of the council members is found murdered...with James standing over the smoldering corpse. With every vampire looking to claim Alex’s power for themselves, she will have to team up with an unlikely ally, push her magic to its limits, and match wits against a powerful new foe if she hopes to come out unscathed.

Read Chapter 1.

Praise and Recognition for Lies and Illusion

• "An intricately woven tale of hope, betrayal, deceit and love." ~NetGalley Review
• "A brilliant and powerful addition to the series." ~Amazon Review

          

Max's War

"Hellmann expertly marries heaps of historical detail with a thoughtful illustration of the dangers of nationalism. This ranks with the author's best work." Publishers Weekly

A sweeping World War 2 saga in which a young German Jew flees Europe, emigrates to America, and joins the Army to fight Nazis

As the Nazis conquer Europe, Jewish teen Max and his parents flee persecution in Germany for Holland, where Max finds true friends and a life-altering romance. But when Hitler invades in 1940, Max must escape to Chicago, leaving his parents and friends behind. When he learns of his parents' deportation and murder, Max immediately enlists in the US Army. After basic training he is sent to Camp Ritchie, Maryland, where he is trained in interrogation and counterintelligence.

Deployed to the OSS as well, Max carries out dangerous missions in occupied countries. He also interrogates scores of German POWs, especially after D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge, where, despite life-threatening conditions, he elicits critical information about German troop movements.

Post-war, he works for the Americans in the German denazification program, bringing him back to his Bavarian childhood home of Regensburg. Though the city avoided large-scale destruction, the Jewish community has been decimated. Max roams familiar yet strange streets, replaying memories of lives lost to unspeakable tragedy. While there, he reunites with someone from his past who also sought refuge abroad. Can they rebuild their lives…together?

This epic story about a Ritchie Boy is Libby Hellmann’s tribute to her late father-in-law who was active with the OSS and interrogated dozens of German POWs.

Sure to captivate readers of Kate Quinn and Kristin Hannah, Max’s War echoes modern-day decisions made during periods of conflict and explores what happens when hate seems to be winning.

Praise for Max's War
"Another engrossing and powerful historical novel from award-winning author Hellmann. Max's War moves quickly with memorable characters and vivid descriptions." ~BookReporter

"It's a story everyone should know, everyone should read." ~John Lawton, author of the Joe Wilderness series

"Hellmann's novel informs as its story surges ahead, through tragedies and breathless escapes, and the personal cost of vengeance." ~BookLife

Get a Free Gift!
Libby gave a lot of thought to the gift she gives you in return for joining her monthly newsletter, and we love her idea: A collection of seven short stories intended to help you get to know her style and her voice as a writer, which may in turn help you decide which novel of hers you will want to read next!

About Libby Fischer Hellmann

Libby Fischer Hellmann is a critically acclaimed crime writer loved by readers the world over for her compulsively readable thrillers and strong female characters. Her fast-paced crime fiction spans 17 novels and 25 short stories. She also writes historical fiction standalones and edited the evergreen crime fiction anthology Chicago Blues. Doubleblind, her newest PI Georgia Davis thriller, #6 in the series, was released in March 2022.

Libby's richly varied novels have won numerous awards, and Libby has also served as the National President (2005-2006) of Sisters in Crime, a 4,000+ member organization dedicated to strengthening the voice of female mystery writers.

Libby started out in broadcast news, beginning her career as an assistant film editor for NBC News in New York before moving to DC to work with Robin MacNeil and Jim Lehrer at N-PACT, the public affairs production arm of PBS. Retrained as an assistant director when Watergate broke, Libby helped produce PBS's night-time broadcast of the hearings. She moved to Chicago to work for public relations firm Burson-Marsteller in Chicago, and then later created Fischer Hellmann Communications.

Originally from Washington, D.C., Libby earned a BA in History from the University of Pennsylvania, and then a Masters Degree in Film Production from New York University. She's lived in Chicago more than forty years now, has two kids and a cat.

Learn more at LibbyHellmann.com, get seven free short stories by signing up for Libby's newsletter, and be sure to follow her online:
 

               

Looking for a little action in your next read? Follow the adventures of Montana Game Warden Danny Coogan in the best-selling "Frontier" novels of author Michael Cardwell. Read on to learn more.

BONUS: The e-book edition of The Rough Stuff, a powerful collection of Michael Cardwell's short stories, is currently available as a FREE download from Amazon.com!

FREE: The Rough Stuff

The Rough Stuff is a powerful collection of short stories. Filled with unforgettable characters, it is a mix of action-filled fiction and reflective morality tales about the truisms of life, its spectacle, its inherent dangers, and its frustrating uncertainty. Whether in the mountains of Afghanistan, on a farm in Indiana, or in a lake cabin in Idaho, Cardwell tells brutally honest stories about the lives of decent, hard men in America.

★★★★★ "Short stories about struggles in life that our true heroes face every day." ~Amazon Review

Frontier Justice: A Coogan Mystery

Danny Coogan is an Afghanistan veteran with a new job as a Montana Fish and Game Officer. He's looking forward to a simple life in the wilderness around the small town of Darwin, but his life becomes a nightmare when he is shot and left injured and alone in the freezing countryside. His assailant? Edmund Goodrunner, a local Native American Danny had considered a friend.

Thus begins a brutal battle of lies, deception, and revenge with drug runners, weapons dealers, kidnappers, and killers. Danny finds himself thrust into an FBI investigation and forced to juggle the threats of a dangerous domestic terrorist group that threatens every aspect of the community he loves and has vowed to protect.

Danny, along with his surrogate father, Senior Game Warden Ben Whitetail, and the local Tribal Police Chief, instill the rich flavor of rural America through poignancy and down-home humor as they struggle, each in their own way, to bring peace back to their snowy town.

If you like mysteries and crime stories with resilient heroes, slam-bang conflict, and nail-biting suspense seasoned with a splash of wilderness humor, then you’ll love Frontier Justice. Perfect for fans of Craig Johnson and CJ Box.

★★★★★ "An entertaining contemporary western filled with action, humor and heart." ~Goodreads Review

★★★★★ "Modern Western with action and heart." ~Amazon Review

Frontier Outlaws: A Coogan Mystery

Eight months after the showdown with the domestic terrorist group that nearly cost him his life, Danny Coogan faces a new threat to his community when the body of a dead rancher is found on the Dead Horse Indian Reservation.

Soon, Danny, the Tribal Police, the local Sheriff’s Department, and a U.S. Marshal are pressed into action. Danny’s connections to the Rez draw him into the murder case and plant him firmly in the crosshairs of the killers. Another victim is discovered, tortured, and murdered—but why? 

Along with fellow Afghanistan vet Matt Bringloe from the Tribal Police, Danny is determined to uncover the truth. When he finds a connection to a decades-old cold case, Danny must pull together the clues before someone else dies.

With the flavor of a down-home yarn and the intensity of a high adventure, Frontier Outlaws offers a thrilling ride that delivers a bronco-busting punch.

★★★★★ "Complex plot, great sense of place, well-drawn characters, and respect for First Nation culture. Plus drama and humor. I’ll be reading more in this series." ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "An excellent sequel to Frontier Justice." ~Goodreads Review

      

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Reflections on Life's Illusions: A Memoir of Culture and Consciousness by Jane Gallagher.

"Unconventionally structured and feminine forward, this memoir presents a narrative that celebrates the strength, resilience and whimsically intuitive nature of all women." ~Olivia Thomes, Hare's Paw Literary Journal

Reflections on Life's Illusions

“It is not our business to solve all the world’s problems. It is our business to learn to be aware of as much as we can...and to act as wisely as we can.”

As growing children, the baby boom generation experienced a vast array of cultural extremes, from McCarthyism's anti-communist paranoia to the Vietnam War, Watergate, systemic racism, second wave feminism, the birth of rock ’n’ roll, the civil rights movement, the environmental movement, and more. This memoir reflects on the dynamic relationship between the development of personal and cultural consciousness in order to highlight a path to resilience for anyone seeking to heal Earth's living systems.

Reflections on the effects of childhood awakening to cultural grief following the assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, mingle with reflections on the cultural impacts of rock ’n’ roll, the hippie movement, and the atrocities of Jim Crow racism. From challenges faced in search of personal identity, meaningful relationships, and a rewarding career to the repercussions of a life-changing hike through the mountains of Peru, a focus on the outer journey throughout the book is coupled with attention to a corresponding inner journey to reconnect with wonder, joy, and awe against the backdrop of a nation increasingly at war with itself.

Reflections on Life’s Illusions maps a path of discovery, illuminating what it takes to thrive personally and professionally while working to foster resilience within the turmoil of Western culture and the matrix of life on Earth.

Praise for Reflections on Life's Illusions
"Part memoir, part social commentary, Jane Gallagher's book is both unique and deeply thoughtful in its exploration of the relationship between her personal journey and how it was shaped by the cultural influences throughout her life. A multifaceted, heartfelt book, Reflections on Life's Illusions is rich with both personal stories and skillful cultural analysis, revealing the author's passion for self-understanding, propelled by compelling questions about the mystery of existence." ~Olivia Ames Hoblitzelle, author of Aging with Wisdom

"Jane Gallagher's memoir charts her journey to find direction and connection against the backdrop of the social and cultural mores of the baby boom generation. We attend her long quest to seek a clear and independent voice. She leaves us with a map to unearth the wisdom that nurtures and heals." ~Linda Hoffman, author of The Artist and The Orchard: A Memoir

"A tapestry of experiences that reflect not only her individual journey but also the broader context of the times in which women in her family lived." ~Olivia Thomes, Hare's Paw Literary Journal

Congratulations to Brendan Gillen and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Static, "a High Fidelity for our millennium."

★★★★★ “Reverberates with the drumbeat of why we make art.” ~Will Musgrove, author of Asphalt Dreaming

Static

For Paul, stealing is easy. When he's hungry, he strolls into a bodega and steals lunch. When rent’s due, he steals records and flips them for cash. As a lonely kid growing up in Ohio’s Rust Belt, stealing was the only way he could score the hip hop records and production equipment that fueled his musical dreams.
 
Now he’s in NYC fighting to keep his once-ascendant band alive and his life from falling apart. His bank account is flatlining. The love of his life has broken his heart. Bunky, his bandmate, is ditching him for Eloise, a soulful vagabond with an intoxicating voice. When financial trouble forces his parents from their lifelong home, Paul ramps up his stealing to save his family from collapse. And in a fever of creativity, he begins to steal from the voices in his life to make the music he’s sure will save his soul.
 
Set against the modern music industry, where a single social post can change your destiny, Static is alive to the weight of familial expectations, the pursuit of our deepest hopes and dreams, and the struggle to make meaningful connections in the anxiety of the digital age.

Praise for Static
★★★★★ “Static is a deep dive into the dark web of the American way of success and failure, and the unforgiving scream of the music of chance.” ~Salar Abdoh, author of A Nearby Country Called Love

★★★★★ “Funny, witty, and energetic... will hook you like a beautiful, catchy song that you’ll be humming for days.” ~Will Musgrove, author of Asphalt Dreaming

★★★★★ “A heartfelt, moving debut about the downtown New York music scene, brimming with wasted talent, floundering ambition, broken hearts, and betrayals—and wonderfully redeemed by the possibility of second chances.” ~Elizabeth Gaffney, author of Metropolis and When the World was Young

★★★★★ “Music pops out of every page in multi-sensory detail - the warm crackle of a needle on vinyl, the sweat of a crowd, the vibration of strings, the digitized reanimation of a sample, and the cacophonous ambient symphony of New York City.” ~Will Hagle, author of Madvillain's Madvillainy

★★★★★ “A generation ago, Nick Hornby showed us that a record store can be the perfect backdrop for a novel about the twisted path to growing up. So why haven’t more people paid attention since then? Luckily, Brendan Gillen has, and the result is Static, a High Fidelity for our millennium.” ~Dan LeRoy, author of Dancing to the Drum Machine

Today, we are shining a spotlight on Doombringer, a gritty dark fantasy novella from Marcel Liemant. If you relish twisted magic, supernatural creatures, and complex LGBTQI+ characters, dive into this mysterious tale!

★★★★★ "A beautifully written story set in a dark fantasy realm... The relationship between Oden and his daughter is magical and truly heartwarming. This story had war, loss, hope, love, perseverance, and strong family dynamics.” ~Tara Johnson, Goodreads Review

Bonus: Purchase print editions of Marcel Liemant books directly from the author at MarcelLiemant.com to get signed, wax-sealed paperback editions. 

Doombringer: Of Shadows and Sacrifice

Ancient enemies on the horizon. Twisted magic with a cost. A father who will sacrifice anything to save his daughter.

Oden Treaty is tireless. His nights are devoted to mining magic, his days to shielding his daughter from the reality of their realm ravaged by war. As the skies blacken with signs of imminent attack by the merciless Red Mages, Oden refuses to let the enemy that killed his wife destroy more of his home.

Surrounded by a community resigned to defeat, Oden unearths an unsettling prophecy foretelling his role in the destiny of the final battle. But with every spell cast eroding his body to dust, and their village about to be overrun, Oden is desperate to survive long enough to save his daughter’s world.

Can Oden wield unimaginable power in time to rescue his realm from doom?

★★★★★ "An intriguing dark fantasy." ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "The author's writing style is particularly captivating, vividly painting scenes that pull you deep into the story." ~Goodreads Review

Other titles from Marcel Liemant:

  

           

In this special edition of the LitNuts newsletter, we are shining a spotlight on the work of Lewis Pennington, author of The Memory Stones series of sci-fi thrillers and 12 Coffins, a coming-of-age thriller with a paranormal twist.

★★★★★ "The easiest five stars I've ever given a book." ~Tea&BookLover, Amazon Review of The Memory Stones
 

BONUS:
The Kindle Edition of 12 Coffins is currently
available as a free download! 

12 Coffins

Brothers Cody and Drew Edwards and their gang of mischievous friends are looking for excitement in their sleepy little southern town. It is only when they venture into a supposedly haunted coffin factory that they get more than they had hoped for...

When they discover that lying in the coffins grants them paranormal abilities, they begin a mysterious journey involving murder, deceit, and greed, along with the power to prevent one of the nation’s most devastating events. Determined to use their power for good, they realize that every action they take is accompanied by harrowing consequences.

In this crucible of danger and discovery, family bonds and friendships are tested, and true strength of character is revealed. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but neither could their determination.

★★★★★ "Mystery, suspense, and fun all wrapped into one book!" ~Amazon Review

The Memory Stones: Forgiveness is a Journey in Time

When Mase Winslow, the heir to a Civil War-era plantation, is forced to almost kill his best friend, a slave named Spoon, Mase unconsciously brings about the demise of his beloved home.

As guilt and remorse overtake him, he seeks atonement through death on the battlefield. With the help of an ordinary-looking stone given to him by Spoon’s mother, Mase is transported through time. When he realizes he can redeem himself by altering his actions, he suddenly has hope.

The reality-bending journey that ensues takes Mase to present-day New York City and then back to Civil War-era South Carolina, requiring him to navigate myriad challenges. With more than a century of guilt weighing him down, he battles himself, Yankee troops, nature’s elements, and a nemesis that follows him through time. Set against an ominous ticking clock counting toward a deadly showdown that could cost him the love of his life, all odds are stacked against him.

"One can't help but think of the Outlander series and Twelve Years a Slave. The Memory Stones is a rapid-fire thriller with endless twists and turns." ~Pamela Pyms, General Podcasts

The Memory Stones Series

• Book 1: The Memory Stones: Forgiveness is a Journey in Time
• Book 2: The Memory Stones: Righteous Love is a Narrow Path
• Book 3: The Memory Stones: True Sacrifice is Never Looking Back

  

This special edition of LitNuts is focused on Faeries Don't Lie and the Heart of the World Series from TF Burke, a world of of faeries, pegasi flyers, myths, and secrets for teen and young adult readers.

★★★★★ "A delightful, magical YA book." ~Goodreads Review

Bonus: Get a free download of Whirl of the Fae when you sign up for TF Burke's "Wyrd & the Wisp" newsletter. Whirl of the Fae is a mythological retelling of how the Irish Goddess of Love also became Queen of the Banshees. And with the "Wyrd & the Wisp" newsletter, you will receive special deep-dives into the mysterious world of the fae, along with adventures into swordplay, details on new releases, and more.

Faeries Don't Lie

Can Two Worlds Survive an Augury?

The worlds of Ahnu-Endynia are full of faeries, pegasi flyers, myths, secrets, and themes of belonging despite being misunderstood.

Sixteen-year-old Aunia, the village outcast, wants to impress Mathias, a visiting seventeen-year-old pegasus flyer. Mathias believes the time has come to choose between survival of the Mortal world or the Faery world.

But when Aunia releases a Chandarion’s god-like magic into the world, her action calls forth the Boggleman, a soul-sucking ghoul who abducts her father, eats her faery friends, and sets Dagel demons on her isolated village.

If Aunia and Mathias are not careful, they might be pulled into the Betwixt, the space between the worlds.

★★★★★ "A unique fairy story, with action, magic, romance, and a wonderful setting." ~Goodreads Review

Faeries Don't Forgive

Getting back to the underworld and saving her dad should be easier with the Boggleman gone. However, there are multiple obstacles in her way, and Aunia can't decide which is worse.

Is it the Da Vennen cult and packs of wererats hunting her for imprisonment or death? Her ongoing conflict with Mathias wanting to hide her away? Or maybe it's herself since she cannot un-know what she has learned.

        

Congratulations to Genalea Barker and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Lovehurts. Being a chubby girl in a society that values skinny isn’t just painful. Sometimes, it’s dangerous.

★★★★★ “Even as our hearts are breaking we are falling in love.” ~J.D. Spero, author of Boy on Hold

Lovehurts

A tactless remark from her boyfriend triggers eighteen-year-old Lena's descent into anorexia and depression. Repeatedly congratulated for her weight loss, Lena’s disordered eating escalates. It isn’t until she hits rock bottom that Lena admits her reckless pursuit of “skinny” might actually be ruining her life.
 
Determined to break free from the suffocating grip of her disorder and an abusive relationship, Lena embarks on a courageous journey of self-discovery and healing. But the road to recovery is rife with inner demons and past wreckage. To reclaim her identity, Lena must repair a fractured friendship, embrace the support of unexpected allies, and relearn how to trust herself.

If you enjoyed The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith, Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow, or All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven, you will enjoy Lovehurts.

Praise for Lovehurts
★★★★★ “Powerful and poignant... Even though your heart may hurt while reading, Barker brings you back with Lena's recovery from self-loathing and rediscovery of self-love.” ~Kelly deVos, author of Fat Girl on a Plane and Eat Your Heart Out

★★★★★ “A beautifully written gut-punch of a novel that I devoured in one sitting. Lena is an unforgettable character you will cry for, rage for, and root for. This big-hearted book will stay with me for a long time.” ~Dallas Woodburn, author of Before & After You & Me

In this special edition of the LitNuts newsletter, the focus is on romance. Specifically, on the Tumble Creek Series from Louise Forster, four books that focus on the importance of family and friends as the protagonists overcome past regrets and new discoveries that challenge everything they hold precious.

★★★★★ "A beautiful story packed with emotion, misunderstanding, and love. A must read for any romance lover. Definitely checks all the boxes." ~BookReader Review

Home Truths in Tumble Creek

Tumble Creek is keeping a secret. Jennifer and Sofie have no idea the revelation will involve them.

Chef Jennifer Dove lives an exciting life in London. Then fate throws her life upside down. Back in Australia, her beloved uncle passed away, leaving her a cryptic message. Then Jennifer and her sister, Sofie, learn of unsettling news regarding their uncle’s estate.

Meanwhile, cattleman/electrician Calum McGregor saunters into Jennifer’s life with a quirky smile and playful eyes filled with wicked humor. He takes her breath—but damn it, she's not staying in Australia, London beckons. But add broad-shoulders, big trouble in snug jeans, boots, and leather jacket, and rational thought disappears.

Rescued: Tumble Creek

Art teacher Sofie is in trouble. Police officer Brock discovers that he’ll risk everything to keep the woman he's fallen in love with out of court.

Sofie Dove wants to know what’s up with Brock Stewart. Everything about the ex-soldier-turned-police-officer screams passion—and it’s all for her. Sofie knows Brock has a past that still keeps him up at night, so she is trying to understand why he gives her mixed messages

After a scary incident destroys Sofie’s house, Brock insists he’s the only one who can keep her safe. He’s determined to find who’s out to get her. But an unexpected arrival in town has the potential to derail their budding relationship.

Promises In Tumble Creek

In a small town secrets aren’t kept for long. Adele must find a way to leave her past behind.

Adele Valentin knows she looks strong, capable, and unflappable from the outside. But when she loses everything, she can only think of one thing to do: run.

A friend’s house in the small rural town of Tumble Creek is a ready-made sanctuary, and Adele flees the big city without ever looking back.

The timing has never been right for Takumi Edwards to express his feelings for Adele, the beautiful, mysterious woman who visits occasionally but haunts his dreams nightly. But now she’s here to stay—at least for a while—and he will never have a better chance. But Adele struggles with both past decisions and how vulnerable Takumi makes her feel. When her past follows her to Tumble Creek, Takumi is the only one who can help resolve both what came before and what could be ahead—if Adele is only strong enough to ask.

Tumble With Me

Where secrets and quirky characters all find a home.

Ex-pole dancer Ava Bennett is ready for a change, even though the idea of moving to Lawson Grady’s hometown freaks her out. Aside from dancing, Ava is a skilled cabinetmaker and intends to build her own home. The biggest obstacle Ava needs to overcome is her private fear—one she’s reluctant to admit to herself, let alone share.

Ex-soldier Lawson, who has a few secrets of his own, is a gentle, kind-hearted guy who’s always ready to listen. Helping people and animals is in his blood. Lawson’s instinct tells him Ava is hiding something. But his efforts to help her come clean are in vain—until there’s no avoiding it.

    

You work long hours, run errands, manage the household, prepare meals, and so much more. Yet at the end of the day, it feels like you've accomplished nothing. How do you make progress when there is so much to be done? 

Introducing Your Time, Your Way: Time Well Managed, Life Well Lived by Carl Pullein, a book that sets forth a revolutionary approach to redefining your relationship with time.

★★★★★ "Clear, concise, and practical." ~Amazon Review

Your Time, Your Way: Time Well Managed, Life Well Lived

Is it actually possible to do more in less time?

The answer is yes, if you know how to make the system work for you instead of the other way around.

Your Time, Your Way sets forth a revolutionary approach to redefining your relationship with time. Written by author, coach, and Time Management Guru Carl Pullein, this productivity handbook presents an innovative, meticulously crafted time management system that will work for you.

Carl introduces the "Time Sector System," an incredibly user-friendly system designed to help you master the art of time management. Carl, a true time tamer with a career spanning 20+ years, has helped not just individuals but global brands like KIA utilize their time efficiently and effectively. And now he's here to help you.

With Your Time, Your Way, you will learn how to:

• Prioritize tasks by importance, not urgency. Focus on what truly matters to you.
• Avoid common pitfalls. Another calendar app won't save your schedule. Plan your day in a way that feels organic, not overwhelming.
• Master the art of time management. Turn your intentions into actions and spend more time doing the things you love doing.
• Implement the Time Sector System: a fresh method to divide your tasks into areas of focus and to structure your goals in a way that is easy to maintain.

      

This edition of LitNuts brings you the heat with these steamy science fiction and paranormal western titles:

• Tabitha Prime
• The Kepler Incident
• Justice Rides

Read on to learn more!

Tabitha Prime

The year is 2109. Tabitha, a devious vengeful clone of Bill Jones’ long-dead ex-wife, has developed a powerful weapon that can destroy stars, along with their planetary systems. With it, she secured her position as a Prime Director in the Mr’rk Interstellar Corporation.

But her obsession goes far beyond absolute power or fabulous wealth. She wants revenge for the death of Bull Travers, the man she cuckolded Bill with years ago on the USS Armstrong. In addition to killing Bill Jones, she seeks to destroy the entire Solar System so she can plunder Earth.

Fast forward five years. Bill Jones is promoted and given tactical command of the task force sent to stop Tabitha and her evil plan. But he has other issues, like a drug-addicted mentally unstable Admiral who also has an axe to grind with Bill, a starship upgraded with barely tested alien technology, and the off-chance of starting Earth’s first interstellar war.

Can Bill and the Enterprise stop Tabitha in time?

The Kepler Incident

In 2108, the faster-than-light science vessel USS Kepler suddenly went missing. An intense search found nothing, and the ship, with all 50 hands, was listed as "missing."

Four years later, a single communications packet from the doomed ship arrived at Starbase One, in orbit over Earth. After verifying the signal source, Star Fleet Command dispatched the USS Enterprise, commanded by Captain Bill Jones, to investigate the situation.

Upon arrival at Wolf 437, a red dwarf star with two planets, Enterprise found Kepler's damaged drive section. Hoping that Capt. Stewart, the commanding officer of Kepler, had somehow managed to land the rest of his crippled ship on a nearby planet, Capt. Jones sets out.

What he and the Enterprise find on the planet, labeled Gliese 486c, surprises everyone.

Justice Rides

Shot dead at the battle of Brown's Mill in 1864, Elijah Jones, a sergeant in the 8th Regiment of Indiana Cavalry, learns that he has been recruited by an immortal being named Adrestia Rhamnousia to help dispense justice in a dark world.

As part of his preparation and training, Eli spends five years with the Texas Rangers, riding with Captain Bill McDonald, one of the greatest Ranger Captains of all time. He deals with the worst humanity has to offer, including robbers, carpetbaggers, crooked lawmen, and the owner of a notorious New York speakeasy.

Justice Rides is not just a story of illicit sex, cheating, and retribution. It is a story of hope, family, romance, and eternal love that spans over 75 years of US history. Saddle up and enjoy the ride as Eli Jones makes the transition to the avenger known as Justice O. Peace.

Today, LitNuts is pleased to shine a spotlight on the work of Abby Greyson, author of sweet-and-swoony romances novels:

• I'd Never Date my Brother's Best Friend
• I'd Never Date my Best Friend...Again
• Accidentally In Love with my Best Friend's Brother

★★★★★ "Abby Greyson cleverly mixes romance and humor, and shows how two seemingly completely different people can complement each other perfectly." ~Goodreads Review

Bonus: Sign up for Abby's newsletter and get a free copy of Second Chance with my Bad Boy Ex. 

I'd Never Date my Brother's Best Friend: A Small Town Sweet Romantic Comedy

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 friends to lovers story." ~Amazon Review

I'd Never Date my Brother's Best Friend...Again: A Second Chance Sweet Romantic Comedy

A long-awaited homecoming, a runaway bride, and a second chance.

When I decided to join the Army, I never in a million years believed it would cost me the girl I loved. A decade later, I’m home, and Penny is starting the life we dreamed of…with another man. At least she was until I found her hanging from a cliff on her wedding day.

Still in love with me, she left her fiancé at the altar. But I’m no longer the man who left Willow Falls and joined the military. I’m broken and unworthy of Penny and the love she has to offer. I would never let her settle for less than she deserves. But how do I walk away from the one person my heart beats for? The one and only woman I’ve ever loved?

★★★★★ "Abby Greyson’s writing is both poignant and humorous, capturing the essence of a romcom while addressing serious issues faced by veterans and those they love." ~Goodreads Review

Accidentally In Love with my Best Friend's Brother : A Sweet, Enemies-to-Lovers, Football RomCom

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?

★★★★★ "Clean romance content that doesn't skimp on the swoon." ~Amazon Review

        

Today, LitNuts is pleased to shine a spotlight on The Jimmy Crikey Series of middle grade fantasy/adventure novels from author Wallace Briggs. Each of these books has received high praise from reviewers, not just the characters and storylines, but also for the lessons the books convey about self-confidence, empathy, respect, and other important values for young readers.

"A beautiful world that meshes fantasy and science fiction for young readers." ~Literary Titan

The Amazing Adventures of Jimmy Crikey: Worlds Beneath And Above The Stars 

Beneath the very ground on which you walk and beyond the stars above your head are more worlds than you could ever dream of. There are monsters. Magic wielded by witches and sorcerers. Epic adventures in worlds far across the ocean. And fearsome weapons that threaten to destroy everything.

With a bright red mop of unruly hair, big blue eyes, a small snub nose, pointed ears, and enormous feet, poor Jimmy Crikey is ridiculed by the neighborhood children and runs away in search of a world where he fits in. Following a midnight flight through the forest, he stumbles into a lost, underground world called Roombelow where magic, adventure, danger, and excitement await.

"Conveys a message of self-love and acceptance which is significantly important at this age group level." ~Amazon Review

Jimmy Crikey's Adventures in the Sky Islands (and beyond) 

Jimmy Crikey is the orphan alien living on Earth. Because of his strange appearance, Jimmy was bullied beyond endurance.But he saved the underground world of Roombelow from the sleeping spell cast by Matilda, the witch who forgot how to laugh. And now Gemma, the little lady who lived at the bottom of the well, is Jimmy's greatest friend, and Jade (Gemma's tiny niece) is Jimmy’s greatest admirer.

Once freed from the bullies, Jimmy blossomed and developed into a genuine hero. He uses his unique Attalian powers to defend Roombelow from many of the dangers that threaten. Meanwhile, far above Earth, the Sky Islands are invaded by the galactic race of Zylons. It takes the combined power of the four witches, the ancient Weatherman, Jade (an apprentice witch), and Jimmy to save the Sky Islands. 

"One senses a bit of Harry Potter, Alice in Wonderland and the fairy tales of our youth... Full of relevant messages about bullying and how one can overcome and rise above the conflict through courage and self-confidence." ~Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Readers' Favorite

Jimmy Crikey's Adventures in Parallel Worlds 

When Earth is invaded by an alien species of omnivorous worm, the four guardian witches of Earth are powerless against them. So it falls to Jimmy to seek the help of his technologically advanced friends on Attalia, his home planet in a different dimension.

Jimmy may be an orphan, but he has friends on both sides of the universe, including Jade, the apprentice witch who joins Jimmy on his quest. They escape the worms once and reach the safety of Attalia. But when Jade's life is threatened again, it's up to Jimmy to save the day.

"A highly creative, exciting story for kids that I'm sure plenty of adults will enjoy too." ~Liz Konkel, Readers' Favorite

The Adventures of Jimmy Crikey: The Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake, the underground home of the Aquamites, is invaded by a flesh-eating, fire-breathing serpent that is impervious to the magic of the four guardian witches. The witches call on Jimmy for help.

Jimmy accompanies Elwinn, witch guardian of everything associated with water, to visit the Emerald Lake. They capture the serpents, but Annison is seriously injured when a serpent takes a big bite out of her tail. All appears lost until Lord Oron reveals his true identity—and a plan that could save Annison's life. 

"An inspiring tale about friends and allies coming together to help each other." ~Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite

The Adventures of Jimmy Crikey: Jade, the Youngest Ever Witch 

Jade is approaching the end of her apprenticeship with Witch Matilda, the leader of the Guardians. But there are several challenges to complete before Jade becomes a fully qualified member of the sister's Coven, and Jade cannot accept help from anybody, especially not from Jimmy. 

Things get complicated when the cave world of Lithnia, the Sky Islands, and Roombelow all fall under threat, requiring help from Jimmy and Jade. And things get even worse when an alien race from the Alpha Centauri system risks destroying Earth in order to save their own planet. Can Jimmy help the aliens resolve their plight without bloodshed? And when Witch Matilda is called to a higher realm, who will be appointed as her successor?

GOLD MEDAL, 2023 Global Book Awards

"With all the great elements of a traditional fairy tale brought into the 21st Century, this tale offers both fantasy and realism, setting youthful minds alight while keeping their feet firmly planted on the terra firma of responsible human behaviour, empathy and respect for others. Unreservedly recommended." ~The BookViral Review

The Adventures of Jimmy Crikey: Radioactive! 

Roombelow is suffering from the aftereffects of the rock-chewing Scarab beatles that undermined the town and the world of the Diamites, and even the water-world of the Aquamites is crumbling.

Unexpectedly, a hole appeared in the centre of the Aquamites’ Emerald Lake. Not only does the lake begin to empty, but thirty Aquamites have been swept away in the flow and end up in the dangerous lake belonging to the Tritians.
Rescue cannot come soon enough because the Tritians live in a radioactive environment that poisons the young Aquamites, and Jimmy’s close friend Annison is in seriously trouble.

"If your child loves witchcraft, aliens, and futuristic tales, then this book will become their new favorite." ~Amy Louise Hill, Readers' Favorite

The Adventures of Jimmy Crikey: 6-Book Set 

One of the best values we at LitNuts have seen in a long time: Get the entire collection of critically acclaimed Jimmy Crikey books for less than $6 (free via Kindle Unlimited)!

Looking for a fun summer read? We've got it with the Boozy Book Club Midlife Romance Series of RomComs from author Rose Bak! Each book in the series is a steamy standalone featuring a couple over forty-five, a nosy group of matchmaking friends, and a sweet happily-ever-after ending that proves anyone can find love later in life.

"The author has an amazing ability to draw out all the feelings with her incredible writing and story telling." ~Goodreads Review

Beach Reads

She was supposed to be celebrating her sister’s birthday, not falling in love with some guy she just met!

When her sister invites her on a girls’ weekend to celebrate her fiftieth birthday, Teresa tries her best to get out of it. She’s much too busy to take a vacation, let alone spend time with the charming and sexy bartender at the resort they’re visiting.

Colin never believed in love at first sight, at least until he set eyes on Teresa. The curvy beauty is everything he’s ever wanted in a woman. If he could just convince her to stay…but first, he needs to tell her the truth about who he really is.

It's not just a vacation fling...it's love.

★★★★★ "A sweet and steamy romance, with secrets, intrigue, emotions, and love, which leads to a wonderful beach read." ~Amazon Review

Bubbly & Billionaires

Falling in love with billionaires is only something that happens in romance books, right?

Nurse Emma Edwards is known for her bedside manner. Her quiet confidence and sunny personality can cheer up even the grumpiest patient.

But her latest patient isn’t just grumpy, he’s successful, rich, and incredibly handsome. Wyatt Simmons made a fortune in business, but the widower is also quite lonely—at least until his daughter insists on hiring a nurse to care for him after emergency surgery. He might not want a nurse, but he does want Emma—for the rest of his life.

They come from different worlds, but they’re both old enough to know what they want: love.

★★★★★ "A fun story that will have you smiling as it warms your heart." ~Amazon Review

Martinis & Mysteries

Cops in romance books are always so sweet and protective. Unfortunately, Evie’s life is no romance book.

Bookstore owner Evie Fontenot has a mystery to solve. Someone is messing with her bookstore, and there’s no way someone is going to get away with ruining the successful business she created. Her friends insist she report the issues to the police, but based on her history with the law, she knows they’ll be no help. When she meets the bossy and rigid police chief, she knows she’s right.

Jake Wilson isn’t sure what’s going on at Boozy Books, but there’s one thing he does know: Evie is the woman he’s been looking for his whole life. He doesn’t appreciate Evie’s “girl detective” act or her prickly independence, but he does appreciate her business savvy and generous curves.

At their age, there’s no reason to play games. But Evie had no interest in forever, and Jake is not interested in settling for anything less.

★★★★★ "A wonderful story that pulls us into the lives of Evie and Jake and does not let go. The story keeps us turning the pages with humor, suspense, danger and love." ~Goodreads Review

About the Author
Rose Bak has been obsessed with books since she got her first library card at age five. She is a passionate reader with an e-reader bursting with thousands of beloved books. 
​​​​​​​
Rose lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family and special needs dogs. In addition to writing, she also teaches accessible yoga and loves music. Sadly, she has absolutely no musical talent, so she mostly sings in the shower.

​​​​​​​Although Rose enjoys writing both fiction and nonfiction, romance novels have always been her favorite guilty pleasure, both as a reader and an author. Rose's contemporary romance books focus on strong female characters over age 35 and the alpha males who love them. Expect a lot of steam, a little bit of snark, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. 

Learn more at AuthorRoseBak.com, get a free e-book when you sign up for Rose's newsletter, and be sure to follow her online:

           

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on books of the Nite Fire Series from C.L. Schneider, an immersive mash-up of urban fantasy and murder mystery with shapeshifters, dragons, and parallel worlds.

"Prepare to be sucked in by this gritty, dark, urban fantasy. One helluva ride!" ~Readers' Favorite

Nite Fire: Flash Point

A single act of compassion turned her from assassin to fugitive in the blink of a dragon’s eye.

For nearly a century, Dahlia Nite has protected humanity with her shapeshifting abilities. She hunts what lurks in the dark, concealing the existence of monsters, burying the secrets that threaten to destroy everything.

But when a supernatural serial killer sheds light on what should remain in the shadows, Dahlia's limits are tested. Ancient conspiracies are in danger of being exposed, awakening humans to a reality steeped in myth and legend—one more terrifying than they could ever imagine.

As the mystery deepens, Dahlia partners with the local police. She straddles the line between solving the crimes and hiding their shocking circumstances. But each new murder only lifts the veil higher. Each new clue leads her to the one place she thought to never go again: home.

Praise for Nite Fire: Flash Point
"Intense action, engaging characters, and slow, nuanced, nicely-layered worldbuilding." ~Fantasy Faction

"One of the unbelievably fantastic urban fantasies we've had the pleasure to read in a very long time." ~Chick Lit Cafe

"A wildly enjoyable gripping novel that will keep you hooked until the last page." ~Redheaded Book Lover Reviews

"A well-written, original urban fantasy that is a welcome addition to the genre. Bad-ass action scenes, great dialogue and terrific character and worldbuilding." ~Uncaged Reviews

Winner of multiple awards, including Book of the Year from the Independent Author Network, a Silver Medal in Urban Fantasy from the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards, and recognition from New Apple EBook Awards, Top Shelf Book Awards, Book Excellence Award, and others.

Nite Fire: Chain Reaction

Murder, mystery, mayhem, dragons—and mutants!

If anyone can tell the difference between monsters and humans, it's Dahlia Nite. For nearly a century, she's hunted one to protect the other; safeguarding humanity from the creatures that slip through the torn veil between the worlds—creatures like her. But the lines are blurring. As people begin mutating and combusting on the streets, Dahlia realizes a strange affliction has descended upon Sentinel City. The mysterious ailment strikes all walks of life, from the posh, high-end nightclub district to the homeless community. 

Assigned to the case, Dahlia and her human partner, Detective Alex Creed, investigate the deaths. But all they have are questions and bodies, and a public on the verge of panic. Working behind the scenes with her self-appointed sidekick, Casey Evans, Dahlia struggles to discover what, or who, is behind the alarming transformations. 

Praise for Nite Fire: Chain Reaction
"Mixes detective thriller with a buddy cop movie and gives it all a paranormal punch. I am loving this series." ~K.S. Marsden, author of the Northern Witch Series

"An urban fantasy series with a strong female lead." ~Behind the Pages

"If you like dragons, paranormal creatures with lots of action on almost every page then you are going to love Chain Reaction." ~Nancy Allen, The Avid Reader

Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors

She knows monsters are real because she is one. But how long can she hide the truth?

Secrets are a dragon's best friend. Deception is a close second. Both provide a sturdy armor, allowing half-dragon shapeshifter Dahlia Nite to live undetected among the humans. Walking in two worlds, belonging in neither, she wraps herself in a shroud of lies to hide in plain sight. But nothing stays hidden forever.

When dismembered bodies of multiple species are dumped on the riverbank, the case falls to Dahlia and Detective Alex Creed. Backed by Sentinel City's new task force, the pair find themselves urged along by clues that seem too good to be true. Bouncing from one crime scene to the next, they hunt for a clear motive in a murky sea of conflicting evidence. 

As the dots connect and worlds collide, Dahlia struggles to shield her friends from the truth. But secrets can be deadly. And Dahlia is not the only one who keeps them.

Praise for Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors
"I am absolutely in love with this series. The characters come alive, and the story has twists and turns that keep you fascinated." ~Naomi Valkyrie, author of the Life is Hell Series

"Full of action from shapeshifters to creatures that lay hidden in the night, this story will keep you turning pages." ~Goodreads Review

The Nite Fire Series

           

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Be Your Own Rock from Sagar Constantin, a book that promises to help your strengthen your mind and build the power to overcome anything.

★★★★★ “A thought-provoking and fascinating guide on navigating life's inevitable disruptions." ~Goodreads Review

Be Your Own Rock

The proven way to strengthen your mind and build the power to overcome anything

In a world that’s constantly evolving, the one certainty is change. Yet, navigating life’s transitions can often feel overwhelming, leaving us uncertain and apprehensive about the future.

Be Your Own Rock is more than just a book; it’s a journey of transformation, a guiding light for people who seek to find strength in difficult times, challenges, and change rather than fear it.

Crafted with profound insights and real-life stories, this book delves deep into the heart of change and transitions. It’s not just about coping; it’s about thriving. It’s about understanding the intricate dance of emotions, fears, and aspirations that accompany every transition in life. Whether it’s a career shift, a personal transformation, or an unexpected twist in your life story, Be Your Own Rock offers you the tools, wisdom, and courage to navigate your path with confidence and grace.

Reclaim your narrative, harness your inner resilience, and turn the page to a new chapter where you can stand firm as a rock and welcome the opportunity for growth, learning, and self-discovery.

Praise for Be Your Own Rock

★★★★★ "Invaluable guidance on navigating changes in your life." ~Henriette Bohnstedt, UK

★★★★★ "A must-read for anyone striving to become more confident and self-assured in their daily lives." ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "Of huge value for anyone seeking to master personal and professional upheavals." ~Goodreads Review

     

Congratulations to Alice McVeigh on the release of Pride and Perjury: Twelve Pride-and-Prejudice-Inspired Short Stories, the newest addition to the author's award-winning Warleigh Hall Press Jane Austen Series. 

“McVeigh's prose and plotting are pitch-perfect...echoes the master herself." ~Publishers Weekly

Pride and Perjury: Twelve Pride-and-Prejudice-Inspired Short Stories

Discover the untold stories behind Jane Austen’s beloved characters in this captivating new release, the fourth book in what Publishers Weekly described as “McVeigh's celebrated Austenesque series.”

What really happened when Wickham eloped with Lydia? What did the Longbourn servants secretly think of the Bennet sisters? ("I have very little hope," said Mr. Bennet, "of disposing of even one of my daughters much before luncheon." ~from McVeigh's Pride and Perjury.) Take a deep dive into Caroline Bingley's schemes, Lady Catherine's de Bourgh's diary—and Mr Knightley’s heart.

Praise for Pride and Perjury

"A wonderful collection." ~Goodreads Review

"Beautifully conceived, beautifully imagined, beautifully written." ~Amazon Review

"Though there have certainly been other attempts to imitate Austen's narrative and storytelling, none have been so masterfully executed as McVeigh's." ~IndieReader

Susan: A Jane Austen Prequel

Susan is a Jane Austen Prequel, brilliantly capturing Austen's own Lady Susan as a young girl.

Sixteen-year-old Susan Smithson—pretty but poor, clever but capricious—has just been expelled from a school for young ladies in London. At the mansion of the formidable Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Susan attracts a raffish young nobleman. But, at the first hint of scandal, her guardian dispatches Susan to her uncle Collins' rectory in Kent, where her sensible cousin Alicia lives and "where nothing ever happens." Here Susan mischievously inspires the local squire to put on a play, with consequences no one could possibly have foreseen. 

Familiar characters abound—Frank Churchill, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Darcy himself. But Susan—mischievous and manipulative—is the star. This is Austen that even Austen might have loved, with a touch of Georgette Heyer in the romantic sections. Fans of Bridgerton will also relish this classic regency romance, the first in a six-book series.

Praise for Susan

"Emma mingles with Pride and Prejudice in a delightful confrontation between the two books' worlds." ~Publishers Weekly BookLife Prize quarter-finalist review

"Think Emma or Pride and Prejudice, but with the added sense of humor, mischief, and determination that elevates Susan." ~Midwest Book Review

In addition to being a BookLife Quarterfinalist, Susan also received Gold/First Place awards from PenCraft, Global, eLit, Historical Fiction Company Book Awards, and other competitions.

Harriet: A Jane Austen Variation

Harriet is an intriguing and original take on Jane Austen's immortal Emma.

Emma, a privileged young heiress, decides to mentor Harriet Smith, a pretty boarding-school pupil, and to matchmake her as eligibly as she can… But how is she to guess that Harriet has a secret? Meanwhile, the brilliant, penniless Jane Fairfax consents to a clandestine engagement with Frank Churchill—though not daring to confess, even to him, that she is being relentlessly pursued by her best friend’s husband. Harriet sidelines Emma herself in favour of the ingenious Harriet and the fascinating Jane Fairfax. It is Emma—but an Emma with a surprisingly believable twist in its tail.

Recognition for Harriet

• Gold medal, Historical Fiction Company's Book Awards
• Bronze medal, IPPY Awards
• Starred Editor's Pick on Publishers Weekly
• Finalist for Foreword Indies Book of he Year
• Finalist for Chanticleer's CIBA Chatelaine Award
• Gold Medal, Global Book Awards
• Selected as one of "100 notable indies of 2022" by Shelf Unbound magazine
• Finalist in the International and American Fiction Awards

Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

The third in McVeigh's prize-winning series of standalone Jane Austen variations.

“Should she reject me again, I shall have to wed—as I swore I never would—for dynasty alone. I can only ever love Elizabeth Bennet.”

Love is put to the test in this fresh spin on Jane Austen’s starriest novel, entwining original and classic characters in a tale of passion and self-discovery. Alice McVeigh puts the spotlight on Darcy in this witty and imaginative re-telling of Austen’s classic tale. In a timeless story of love amid the clash of social classes, Darcy is faced with a terrible choice: to stay in London to force Wickham’s hand—or to go to Rome, to salvage his family’s reputation.

With a new Darcyesque slant, omitted scenes from the original, and an extra helping of humour—as well as excerpts from The Wisdom and Wit of Miss Mary Bennet—this is a fresh new Pride and Prejudice with (wedding) bells on!

Praise for Darcy

"The narrative is infused with a dry twenty-first-century sensibility that respects Austen while also peeking into her characters’ true thoughts... An often delightful deep dive into what the characters of Pride and Prejudice were thinking but not saying." ~Foreword/Clarion Reviews 

"Catnip for Austen fans... A joy to read!" ~Readerss Favorite

"Sparkling, witty, and delectable" ~Publishers Weekly

Finalist, UK Selfies Book Awards 2024

         

Congratulations to Rachel Stolzman Gullo and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Confuse the Wind, a novel in which a skyscraper engineer's worldview shifts as his son's illness reveals unexpected connections and discoveries.

★★★★★ “A deeply humane story that lingers long after the last page is turned.” ~Gayle Forman, New York Times bestselling author of If I Stay

Confuse the Wind

As a skyscraper engineer, Jonathan Brooks has always believed that a skyscraper is either made correctly or incorrectly, and all problems have solutions. He has yet to learn that people are made differently.

When his son, Theo, fell ill with encephalitis at fourteen months old, Jonathan and his wife, Carly, were devastated to learn that Theo’s setbacks would be long-lasting, possibly permanent. Theo is now seven years old and not yet walking or fully verbal, and Jonathan and Carly are living apart.

The broken family’s world is upturned by the arrival of Aimee, a complicated young Irish woman who begins working as Theo's nanny in ways Jonathan does not trust. But as Aimee brings about new advancements for Theo, their bond grows, until Aimee’s own personal crisis rocks the family and shows them all a new way forward.

Confuse the Wind is a book about our human interdependence and how we desperately need one another to survive and hopefully thrive. If you enjoyed A Gate at the Stairs by Lorrie Moore, Wonder by R.J. Palacio, Bee Season by Myla Goldberg, or Commonwealth by Anne Patchett, you will love Confuse the Wind.

Praise for Confuse the Wind
★★★★★ “A wonderful, strange, and astounding masterpiece.” ~Amanda Boyden, author of I Got the Dog

★★★★★ “A love song to love itself, as sturdy and astounding a thing, it turns out, as a well-designed skyscraper, built to confuse the wind.” ~Amy Hassinger, After the Dam

★★★★★ “A heart-wrenching, deftly told story that reminds us that sometimes you have to break a thing before you fully understand how it works.” ~Colin Broderick, Church End

★★★★★ “A beautifully written novel about one family traversing that divide and learning to love one another, not as they might be but as they are.” ~Gayle Forman, If I Stay

A must-read for booklovers who enjoy a complex, emotive narrative with a strong, passionate protagonist.

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Love Lost Adventure: The Lie by Roseann Gargiulo, a thrilling blend of romance and suspense, transporting readers across time from the Civil War era to the 1990s. 
 

Recipient of five 5-star reviews from Readers' Favorite.

Love Lost Adventure: The Lie

Surrounded by the whiteness of the blizzard’s snow, Theodora Hayes was determined to rekindle a flame she had walked away from many years ago. But can one ever truly go back? "Teddy" didn’t give it a second thought. Passion drove her need. Cole was the love of her life, and nothing was going to keep her from finding him…except maybe danger, murder, and yes, love—and its wicked dark past.

Love Lost Adventure: The Lie written is a story of many plots, all threaded together in a mixture of romance, history, murder, mystery, and adventure, with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. Set in the 1990s and the Civil War era, the story jumps effortlessly between dual timelines, but in a way that you always know where you are and what era the story is in. It's packed with twists and turns and plenty of suspense. It is both heart-stopping and heartwarming, with an eclectic mix of characters that you will adore.

Five-Star Reviews from Readers' Favorite
★★★★★ “People will do crazy things for love and there is no better example of this than Love Lost Adventure: The Lie. The characters were all quirky and unique and added something to the plot. This is a wonderfully written book. Anyone who loves a romance that isn’t just a romance would appreciate this work.” ~Miche Arendse, Readers' Favorite

★★★★★  “Gargiulo’s characters are richly developed, and their deep connections evoke a range of emotions, taking readers from laughter to tears at the turn of a page.” ~K.C. Finn, Readers' Favorite

★★★★★ “The alternating perspectives from several characters provided transitions that built suspense. The sudden twists in the plot made it unpredictable, and I was on edge as I read each page.” ~Stephanie Chapman, Readers' Favorite

★★★★★ “An awesome story told by a master storyteller.” ~Anne-Marie Reynolds, Readers' Favorite

★★★★★ “It’s all fun and games until somebody ends up in an incinerator!” ~Jamie Michele, Readers' Favorite

About the Author

Roseann Gargiulo is a multimedia artist, musician, and visual storyteller. She studied Motion Picture and Theatre Arts at the University of Miami and then received her Master’s in Information Technology at Florida State University.

Gargiulo’s writing style is not that of the typical romance writer. Instead, her multi-plot storylines are usually seen from a camera’s lens. Love Lost Adventure: The Lie is the first novel in the series, and she is currently working on the second. 

Learn more at LoveLostAdventure.com, sign up for the Love Lost Adventure free monthly newsletter, and be sure to follow Roseann online: 

          

The course of true love never did run smooth.

New release! Get Midsummer: A Contemporary Enemies-to-Lovers Adaptation from Jena Doyle, a book that involves politics, fairies, and intrigue in this dark enemies-to-lovers adaptation of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

"I've read and seen many variations of the play and this is one of my fave takes on it." ~Amazon Review

Midsummer: A Contemporary Enemies-to-Lovers Adaptation

When a Midsummer party turns into a nightmare, we learn there are consequences to making a vow in a magical place. And the fairies never play fair.

"The sexual encounters in this story were off the charts hot - smoking hot." ~Goodreads Review

"An intense, incredibly beautiful retelling of A Midsummer Night's Dream." ~Amazon Review

"It’s a hot book that’s for sure. This has fairies, enemies to lovers, arranged marriage, and orgies in the woods." ~Goodreads Review

"Smutty, intertwined storyline. The story is told from dual POV and each of them have a very different feel." ~Amazon Review

Ivy: As the daughter of the president, I've had my life planned out for me: college, law school, politics. I should have guessed that my mother would plan my marriage, too. She needs a political success, which means I have to wed my enemy for publicity. I hate Lex Fairfax so much, it burns. I don't know how I'll spend three weeks at a remote castle in Ireland with him, his girlfriend, and my boyfriend without our secrets tearing us apart. When a mysterious stranger overhears my drama, she takes pity on me...in her own way.

Lex: I hate Ivy Washington. She's annoying and frustrating, and she gets under my skin like no one else. Marrying her would be a special kind of hell. I just need to get through this without my past coming back to haunt me. Everyone keeps secrets for their own reasons, but mine will destroy all four of us. 

About the Author

Jena Doyle writes smut for smut’s sake. No apologies. No shame. And definitely no judgment. When she’s not dreaming up dirty words for wild hearts, she enjoys traveling, binge watching trash TV, and dabbling in tarot or astrology. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English / Creative Writing and has been known to ramble at great length about Shakespeare’s gay agenda. She lives in Western Maryland with her partner and furbaby. Learn more at JenaDoyle.com, get a free sexy motorcycle club story when you sign up for Jena's newsletter, and be sure to follow her online: 

              

Congratulations to Frances Park and Vine Leaves Press on the release of Blue Rice, a literary masterpiece in which an elderly Korean woman recalls the Korean War, love amid rubble, and acclimation to 1960 America.

★★★★★ “An American adventure filled with humor, history, heartache, and self-discovery.” ~Scott Saalman, author of Vietnam War Love Story

Blue Rice

By candlelight, an elderly Korean woman relives her years upended by the Korean War, finding love in the rubble, and her acclimation to 1960s America.

Recently widowed Honey, née Hanhee, is preparing to move out of her Arlington home when the Virginia earthquake of 2011 hits. Subtly, something in her cracks. Four days later, Hurricane Irene strikes, evoking monsoon-swept streets of yore.

With the power out, Honey’s life of a half-century ago cinematically comes to light: Her months as an unlikely prostitute at Madam Cho’s; her secret revolt against her dead parents whose love was in question; a mysterious monk’s prediction; her great, sassy Korean friend Kissuni Kim who dreamed of nothing more than ‘love-mak-ing’; her kindly American neighbor Emma Church who would guide her to independence; and, above all, her lingering love for her first husband Joe Lipton, a journalist who brought Honey to America, only to desert her.

Author Frances Park states that writing Blue Rice was like living a dream from scenes her late mother shared with her, as well as her watercolor-like remembrances of growing up in white America as a small child of war-torn Korean parents. 

If you enjoyed Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami, Pachinko by Min Jin Lee, or A Gesture Life by Chang Rae Lee, you will love Blue Rice.

Praise for Blue Rice
★★★★★ “A rare, sumptuous novel whose heroine will break your heart.” ~R.A. Cramblitt, author of Probably Lives in Tahiti

★★★★★ “Frances Park belongs among the best writers in America today.” ~Wayne Coster Cooper, WritersInTheSpirit

★★★★★ “A sublimely detailed tale of resilience and chosen family.” ~Megan Wessell, book blogger, A Bookish Affair

★★★★★ “A masterpiece.” ~Scott Saalman, author of Vietnam War Love Story

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of Jason Stocks, a poet whose work mirrors the hard-knock life he's accustomed to, broaching topics like domestic violence, poverty, demasculinization, and more. 

"Stocks's writing has a powerful immediacy, and his poems are packed with both profanity and pop-culture references." ~Kirkus Reviews

Laughing is Forever

"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 contained in Laughing is Forever. These mercurial poems surprise, thrill, and move in equal measure. They’re dying to be read." ~Independent Book Review

"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. I was reminded of early Eminem in the poignant anger of some of the poems." ~Sam Szanto, author of If No One Speaks

"These are the kind of tattered, beautiful poems I often search for and rarely find—the ones that explain, 'Just be happy with a beer after work. You know, quit all the complaining. It won't change a single thing. It just prolongs the suffering.'" ~Sean Thomas Dougherty, author of Death Prefers the Minor Keys

Blameforest

Finalist in the 2024 American Legacy Book Awards

"Provocative, explicit poetry written with muscular swagger." ~Kirkus Reviews

"Fierce, bold, and self aware, Stocks's debut poetry collection is steeped in the Gothic hauntings of Deep South life." ~Jenifer DeBellis, author of Blood Sisters and editor of Pink Panther Magazine

"In Blameforest, Jason Stocks captures the rhythms of a vibrant vernacular that is original and authentic. He builds a distinctive world that often turns violent and lovelorn, his rendering clear-eyed and voiced like a blade—and does so while displaying the expansive range of a skilled craftsman. Far more than a sequence of individual poems, Blameforest is 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

About the Author