Today's Featured Books

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Sword and the Sunflower Series, three works of epic fantasy from author Mark Bradford:

• The Sword and the Sunflower, Book 1 in the Series
• Amira, Book 2 in the Series
• Upside Down, the prequel to the Series

"An epic fantasy journey that is closely connected with our own world, driven strongly by its characters and their deepest pain, but ultimately leads them towards a wider perspective and a fulfilling conclusion." ~Readers' Favorite 

The Sword and the Sunflower
Book 1 in the Series
Genre: Epic Fantasy
4.5 stars, 26 ratings
From $2.99  

A father who lost his heart, a traveler who lost his love, and a girl who lost everything.

Amira
Book 2 in the Series
Genre: Epic Fantasy
5.0 stars, 6 ratings
From $4.99  

In Amira, Book 2 and the epic conclusion of The Sword and the Sunflower, Stojan and Anastazja find they have become the two most wanted people in Amira. Running for their lives, they make their way across the vast country as the wonders of Amira and the Old World are revealed. But upon reaching their destination, they discover a horrible secret: in order to save their homeland, they must bring an end to the reign of the saints.

"An incredible journey of love, family, life and a coming of age." ~Bookshelf Muse

Upside Down
Prequel to the Series
Genre: Epic Fantasy
5.0 stars, 2 ratings
From $4.44  

What would you do if all your tech was taken away? If your loved ones were gone before you knew it? What skills do you have to survive—without a government, a military, or electricity? And what would you do if the saviors of the human race came? How would you react to The Saints? 

Nik Tesic is the brightest engineer the world has ever seen. She's brilliant, powerful, and decisive. And if she gets her way the world will never have to worry about energy again. She's found an unlimited supply. The world should remember her as the one who solved the energy needs. But unfortunately, they won't remember her at all. There won't be any records of the day she turned the world upside down.

Mark Bradford is an author of both fiction and nonfiction books, host of a top 5% global podcast, licensed UAV pilot, speaker, and full stack web developer. He is also the father of two and a martini aficionado. 

Mark speaks to professional associations, groups, and businesses about status, time, energy and resources, and how we all connect. To learn more, visit MarkBradford.org, and be sure to follow him online:
 

Free online: First Friday Book Talk & Reading. Presented by Larksong Writers Place, join this Friday for a Book Talk & Reading with Cassie Premo Steele, author of Beaver Girl, a novel set against the backdrop of a post-pandemic and climate-collapsed world. Friday, March 7, 12 PM CT. 

"I have nature and art and poetry, and if that is not enough, what is?" ~Vincent van Gogh

Octogenarian Mervyn Ambrose's acting career gets an unexpected new lease of life, but unfortunately, he doesn't. His bucket list is modest. Make one last stage appearance. Hold a secret farewell party for his friends. Say what he's always wanted to say to the people who annoy him, especially his sponsor. Bring the young woman he's recently befriended into his circle of friends. And orchestrate his wake. Mervyn's final act is far from ordinary. A dark comedy filled with powerful emotions and a touch of zaniness that will keep you enthralled. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

In 1944, a secret Nazi experiment split the universe in two—one where the Allies triumphed and another where the Nazis harnessed the atomic bomb first and conquered the stars. Now, in 2207, a portal opens between these parallel worlds, unleashing the Weltraumwaffe, the space fleet of the Third Reich, into our universe. Retired Admiral James King, battle-worn but determined, comes out of retirement to defend Earth against a fascist empire that refuses to die. World War II is raging once more—this time, in the depths of space. 4.6 stars, 160+ ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

New release in juvenile fiction (ages 10-14): When Ruby’s mother goes missing due to struggles with mental illness and addiction, Ruby and her aunt set out to find her. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when a jewelry store robbery and an act of kindness from the victim leads them down an unforeseen path. From Georgia to Washington to New York City, Ruby learns that even in life’s darkest moments, hope and unexpected blessings can shine through. "Heart-wrenching and profoundly moving." ~Bookshelf Awards. From $9.99 - SHOP NOW / 

The recently married Hippolyta Napier is making a new life amidst Aberdeenshire’s dark woods and pure, flowing waters. But suspicion, intrigue, and death await at her new home, and the forces of nature take few prisoners. Book 1 in the Hippolyta Napier series. "Excellent series of historical whodunits." ~Amazon UK Review. 4.2 stars, 358 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW / 

"An outrageously enjoyable romp through the meaning of story and authorship and the nature of reality itself." ~Chronogram Magazine. A man's life is upended by a mystery manuscript. What would you do if private stories from your life were published as fiction, but the writer can't be found? Can a book exist without an author? Where do stories come from, anyway? "One-third sleuth story, two-thirds philosophical expedition, A Book with No Author aims to worry the threads of appearance. The novel is a meditation on paradox." ~Dactyl Review. 4.8 stars, 12 ratings. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

"Dark humor and crisp dialogue drive the twisty storytelling." ~BookLife. In an all-too-possible, not-so-distant future dominated by AI, universal basic income, and "subtirees" living pod-bound lives of leisure, Stu Reigns dreams of more. When his brilliant ex develops digital immortality, the world's powerful elite scramble to secure their eternal existence, and Stu gets caught between a sick billionaire, a Russian mob, digital mind clones, and a shrewd, devout Southern matriarch. 5.0 stars, 62 ratings. From $4.99 - SHOP NOW / 

Earl Meanor was an honest, hardworking man who got shafted badly by some men he knew at work. They deliberately bad-mouthed his character. We believe they stole one of his inventions and then crafted a blacklist that nearly destroyed his life. Despite all the harsh treatment and circumstances, he kept his family together. This book tells Earl's story. 4.3 stars, 68 ratings. From $1.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

What’s a straight guy to do when he falls for his new friend? Paramedic Connor is a stressed-out tower of a man. Looking to unwind, he learns to knit but is caught off guard by his feelings for Judah, his instructor. Judah is tired of falling for the wrong men. He can’t help his crush on Connor though, which is trouble because pining for straight guys isn’t his style. As blizzard pummels the city, the friends hunker down and a spark between them ignites. But will the revelation of that attraction draw them together or tear them apart? 4.3 stars, 330 ratings. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

Have you had an adverse reaction to a medical shot? This book encourages people to detoxify to restore health. This is an updated color edition with a toxicologist-approved supplement listing and information about mRNA technology. A must-read for those suffering from any toxin-created issue. From $2.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

 

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on Tachyon Tunnel, an award-winning work of science fiction involving time-travel and romance from author Michael Gorton. 

★★★★★ "A thoughtful and engaging read that bridges the gap between hard science and deep emotion." ~Literary Titan

Tachyon Tunnel

A thought-provoking tale that challenges our understanding of reality and the human spirit.

Follow Paula, a molecular biologist on the cusp of receiving a Nobel Prize, whose life is abruptly cut short by a tragic accident. Her close friend, Alex, has been developing groundbreaking technology capable of tunneling through spacetime. Driven by grief and determination, Alex embarks on a daring journey using this technology, leading to a planet in Cassiopeia where Alex and Paula confront unforeseen challenges and emotions.

Author Michael Gorton's narrative seamlessly blends elements of adventure, romance, and science fiction, inviting readers to explore profound questions about time, loss, and the lengths one might go to alter destiny.

Author's note: As a scientist, I have always pondered the question of how we will be able to travel through the vastness of space. Many have suggested the use of wormholes, but I have a HUGE problem with using a tunnel created by black holes. To put is simply, we would be completely obliterated even getting close to a black hole. Gravity is fundamental to our 3D space, but I do not think it is how we will solve the problem of interstellar travel, thus...the Tachyon Tunnel.

Praise for Tachyon Tunnel

Literary Titan Gold Award Winner

★★★★★ "Thrilling journey through time & space!" ~Amazon Review

★★★★★ "As intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally gripping." ~Amazon Review

Coming soon...

Tachyon Tunnel 2: The Daklin Empire

Part two of the award-winning Tachyon Tunnel Series is coming March 10, with new twists, great science, adventure, and romance! Alex and the Tranquility team discover the Daklin Empire that has ruled the Galaxy for more than 50 million years. 

New Giveaway: Little People, Big Dreams Collection. We just launched a new giveaway! Enter for a chance to win the Little People, Big Dreams Collection of 10 beginner biography board books for young readers ages 2-6 or a $75 Amazon.com gift card (winner's choice). 

“You can find magic wherever you look.  Sit back and relax, all you need is a book!” ~Dr. Seuss

A single puddle on a highway changed Dinesh Palipana’s life forever. A car accident left him with quadriplegia, but he refused to let it define him. He returned to medical school, becoming Queensland’s first quadriplegic medical intern and only the second in Australia. Despite the challenges, he sees his accident as a turning point, making him a more compassionate doctor and a stronger advocate for disability rights. Now, working in one of Australia’s busiest hospitals, he continues to fight for equitable access, proving resilience and purpose can thrive in adversity. 4.6 stars, 82 ratings. From $7.99 - SHOP NOW / 

Lilla must recruit the biggest and most dangerous army in the Seven Galaxies, but the Teryn emperor won't comply unless Lilla earns the blessing of the Teryn Guardian Goddess Laoise. Dealing with gods is never easy. Lilla must bring the mysterious Heart Amulet to Guardian Goddess Laoise to earn her blessing. Now Lilla is trapped in a strange place with no way out and no idea where to go or how to find the amulet. Book 2 in The Last Lumenian series. 4.3 stars, 900+ ratings on Goodreads. FREE - SHOP NOW / 

Two broken souls, one beach house, and a love that could heal them both. Charlotte moved to L.A. to escape her mother’s overbearing control. Jordan's memories of being abandoned by his mother have kept him from making meaningful relationships. With Jordan's deep-seated fears of abandonment and Charlotte's own struggle for independence, can their relationship survive, or will their pasts keep them from the love they so desperately desire? 4.6 stars, 26 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

"I love a book with dark humor, sarcasm, dog bonding, and a twist of the paranormal. Your book delivered on all of these." ~Writer's Digest Self-published eBook Contest, Reviewer 1. Bridgette Ampersand—dog mom, coffee addict, and optometrist—is confronted with the demons of her past as she fights to save the people who matter most in the present. Book 1 in the series. 4.5 stars, 46 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW / 

Aurora Goldberg Stein is drowning in grief after the sudden loss of her husband, Jake. But when she begins hearing his voice and seeing his ghostly presence, she realizes their story may not be over. Drawn into memories of past lives with Jake, Aurora unravels the deeper meaning behind their connection. She once left her Brooklyn roots to follow Jake to Texas, only to find herself lonely and unfulfilled before tragedy struck. Now, with the help of a spectral guide, she's given a chance to confront the mistakes she's made with Jake across lifetimes. But will she finally get it right this time? From $2.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

Leah Branch never expected a record deal—especially after giving up on her dream—but when heartbreak pushed her to Nashville, she took the chance. What she didn’t expect was to be stripped of her name, image, and voice, forced to become someone she didn’t recognize. After one too many humiliations on the road, Leah snaps and flees, leaving behind a shattered career and burned bridges. Now, she must rebuild not just her reputation but her sense of self in this story of resilience, unlikely friendships, and the pursuit of an authentic life. From $2.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

Haunted by two decades of recurring nightmares and sleep paralysis demons, Meg Bartlett spent her life running—from a childhood in Iowa to a warehouse in Afghanistan. When she finally stopped and listened, she discovered that the nightmares she feared had been guiding her all along. Meg, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, shares her journey of confronting deep-seated fears, childhood trauma, and suicidal ideation to reclaim her life. Part memoir, part guide, this book weaves personal stories, dream interpretations, and tools to help readers unlock the wisdom hidden in dreams and become their own source of healing. From $9.99 - SHOP NOW / 

Two years after an explosion left Vinneta disabled and seemingly took the life of her beloved magic mentor, her mentor reappears—looking inexplicably younger—and Vinneta learns she’s destined to become the Crown Princess. But can she abandon her old life and embrace a royal identity built on deception? Meanwhile, Isbet, a secret seller of magical artifacts, stumbles upon a wild man in the forest who has lost all memories. As they investigate, they uncover a horrifying secret: townsfolk are being transformed into fish through sinister experiments. Can they unravel the truth before more lives are lost? FREE - SHOP NOW / 

A fake marriage to my billionaire boss seemed harmless. But now I'm pregnant and there's no faking this. Ben Blackwood has a body built for sin and a charm as lethal as his temper. He drives me insane in every way—grumpy, brooding, and too damn sexy for his own good. Pretending to be Mrs. Blackwood should've been all business—play the perfect wife, close the deal of the century. But one lie turned into one night, and now there's no going back. I'm pregnant with his baby and in his ruthless world, secrets like this destroy everything. 4.4 stars, 58 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW / 

Congratulations to author Linda Oatan High and Red Chair Press on the release of Somebody's Someone, a new work of juvenile fiction for readers ages 10 - 14 that blends humor, love, and friendship in the story of a twelve-year-old with a mentally ill parent.

"An uplifting narrative journey."  ~Kirkus Reviews

BONUS: Get a free preview of a sample chapter of Somebody's Someone and other books from Red Chair Press!

Somebody's Someone

NEW RELEASE: March 4, 2025
Author: Linda Oatman High
Illustrator: Yayira Dzamesi
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Available in hardcover, audiobook, and e-book from $9.99



 

12-year-old Ruby Bean has become an Accidental Expert on Missing Mothers. When Ruthie, her mother goes missing again due to mental illness and addiction, Ruby and her aunt leap into action to search for Ruthie.

A jewelry store robbery and unexpected kindness from the victim bring more twists to the journey. From Georgia to Washington to New York City Ruby, discovers that sometimes even the worst events can bring the best surprises into one’s life.

Note: Nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year. 46 percent of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life, and half of those people will develop conditions by the age of 14.

Praise & Recognition for Somebody's Someone
1st Place Winner, Children & YA Writing, Bookshelf Awards

"Heart-wrenching and profoundly moving." ~Bookshelf Review

"A real treat for young readers, blending humor, love and friendship." ~Barbara Binns, award-winning author of Courage

"A must read to understand the effects of mental illness on all family members." ~Linda Appleman Shapiro, psychotherapist and author of She's Not Herself

"A gem! A superbly written character-led novel for 10-14 year olds." ~The Wishing Shelf Awards

"A compassionate novel exploring the lifeforce of a child's love." ~Independent Book Review

"A beautifully illustrated, soul-stirring story." ~The Praries Book Review

"A tender exploration of the complexities of familial bonds and the enduring nature of hope" ~Literary Titan

About the Author

Linda Oatman High is an award-winning author of books for children and teens. She also teaches writing workshops. Linda holds an MFA in Writing from Vermont College. Learn more at lindahigh.com.

About the Illustrator

Yai Dzamesi is an illustrator & storyteller who is passionate about creating stories that dive deep and push hard. Her work is marked by warm hues that both comfort and challenge readers. Learn more at yayiradzamesi.com.

About the Publisher
One Elm Books is an imprint of Red Chair Press, an indie press 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:
 

    

Free online: Hill Writers Reading Series. Join for a cozy evening of storytelling and poetry with authors Willie Edward Taylor Carver and Amy Le Ann Richardson. Presented by Hill Writers: A Southern Writers' Collective. Saturday, March 1, 6-8 PM EST.

“Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart.” ~William Wordsworth

A girl drawn to a song, a Guardian seeking redemption, and a world on the brink of collapse. When Ria follows an eerie melody through a mysterious door, she steps into a strange new world and a destiny she never expected. Cedar Jal, a Guardian who escaped imprisonment using forbidden magyc, must protect their land from demons while grappling with a prophecy that names Ria as the key to everything. As the world teeters between salvation and destruction, their choices will determine whether they are its saviors or mere pawns in a greater game. 4.5 stars, 48 ratings. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW /