Today's Featured Books

The Art Of Going Green by JJ Millen

General Nonfiction

We’re taking more from the Earth than we’re giving back, and the effects are undeniable. Climate change feels overwhelming, but that doesn’t mean there’s no use in trying. The Art of Going Green cuts through the noise with easy, budget-friendly tips for everyday life—green cleaning, minimalist wardrobes, eco travel, and more. Save money, reduce stress, and embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Small steps make a big difference. Your planet, your future. From $5.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


The Biohunter by Ingrid Moon

Science Fiction and Fantasy

In a desolate future, a veteran monster hunter must recover a new specimen for the corporate elites. When he learns this organism is not a wasteland mutant but a teen girl, his moral compass spins sideways. Her survivalist spirit challenges everything Mercer believes about his job...his future, and his foggy past...leading him to wonder which side to fight for. From award-winning author Ingrid Moon comes an action-packed dystopian novel with crazy twists, a pinch of humor, and all the blood and violence of an edge-of-your-seat action movie. From $2.29 - SHOP NOW


FREE - Cupcake by Katie Mettner

Romance

Brady has waited seven long years for Haylee to notice him, but since she hasn’t, he's taking matters into his own hands this year. Futile first dates, cupcake competitions, and mean girls all add up to a romantic comedy with laugh-out-loud moments and just enough tension to make you believe in true love again. Join Haylee and Brady on their journey of love, laughter, and cupcakes! 4.5 stars, 259 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW


Considering Us by Jenn Bouchard

Romance

After an affair with a client’s husband leads to scandal and career ruin, private chef Devon Paige lands at Rockwood, a picturesque boarding school in New Hampshire. Her new challenge is coexisting with teacher and soccer coach Kyle Holling, who she hasn't seen since their one-night stand fifteen years ago. 4.5 stars, 67 ratings. From $5.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Imagination by Natania Patterson

Literary Fiction and Poetry

Life is full of ups and downs. We get the chance to experience life with loved ones and create memories as we tackle challenges on our way to becoming responsible adults. At times, we are stripped of everything we love and cherish reducing us to tears, fears, and rage. Nobody’s life experience needs to be the same. Nonetheless, we will all encounter the same emotions in this journey called, Life. From $4.99 - SHOP NOW


FREE - Opal: Spirit of a Woman by Kevin Heaton

Memoir and Creative Nonfiction

In Honor of Women's History Month, this is the story of Mary Opal Fetters/George, a courageous woman who lost her mother to childbirth, was sold into bondage by a father who no longer wanted her, and forced into child labor in another state for many years. In spite of all the odds stacked against her she championed a legacy of grace. This is her true story. FREE - SHOP NOW / 


Unbroken Vow by Bree M. Lewandowski

Romance

"He watched my husband die and expects me to abide by him without question? Never." Marrying a Paladin is forbidden, but Ada followed her heart, not knowing forbidden meant more than a jail sentence. 4.1 stars, 24 ratings. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW


Money skills for Teens Made Simple by Kemi Emmanuel

General Nonfiction

A guide to empowering teens to create a financially secure future through savings, budgeting, financial planning, spending and investing. This comprehensive guide will provide you with basic money skills, a roadmap for creating your personal budget, smart savings strategies, and much more. 4.9 stars, 102 ratings. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Spotlight on A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories

Spotlight

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists, a collection from author Radu Guiasu that is sure to make you laugh.

"Sharp writing that showcases a delightful sense of humor." ~Kirkus Reviews


A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists

Genres: Satire, Humor, Humorous Fiction
4.6 stars, 17 ratings.
Paperback: $19.99
Ebook: $3.99



Growing up under a dictatorship and the toil of academic life don’t seem like laughing matters, but the lighthearted stories in A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists find humor in all corners. Radu Guiaşu draws on his own experiences of academia, research, teaching, exploring nature, and growing up in Romania as inspiration for thirty-six short pieces that offer an entertaining escape from the mundane.

A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists is a wide-ranging collection that includes prose fiction as well as more inventive literary forms, such as lists, all-dialogue stories, and hermit-crab pieces such as a fake rejection letter. Full of clean, intelligent humour, this collection is unified by Radu Guiaşu’s wry, satirical voice, sure to put a smile on your face.

Praise for A Good Day and Other (Mostly) Humorous Stories and Lists

"Rich with satire and wit." ~BookLife 

"A diverse and enjoyable short story collection." ~Foreword Clarion Reviews

"A delightful, memorable collection." ~Literary Titan 

"An artful display of storytelling." ~Chanticleer Book Reviews 

"A gem of a collection." ~Readers' Favorite  

"A wonderfully eclectic series of shorts." ~The Wishing Shelf Book Review 

"Smartly funny." ~Independent Book Review 


About the Author
Dr. Radu Guiaşu grew up in Romania and moved to Canada at age eighteen. Holding four university degrees in biology, education, and zoology, including a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto, Radu Guiaşu is a tenured university professor who teaches and conducts research in fields such as ecology, animal behavior, and conservation biology. He has won teaching and research awards, and has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals, two academic biology books, as well as a novel The Faraway Mountains, which was inspired by his experiences growing up under a communist dictatorship. He lives in the Greater Toronto Area with his family. Learn more at RaduGuiasu.com.


What's New in Historical Fiction - Audiobook Edition

Events

Free online: What's New in Historical Fiction - Special Audiobook Edition. Join host Colin Mustful, founder of History Through Fiction, for a panel series featuring historical novelists and their audiobook narrators: Jillian Forsberg with Caroline Hewitt for The Rhino Keeper; Elizabeth R. Andersen with Ella Lynch for Sleight of Hand, and Elizabeth Becker with Bailey Carr for The Moonlight Healers. Monday, March 31, 1 PM CDT. 

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” ~Charles Dickens


The Skiers by Jen Craven

Book of the Day

At the onset of the professional waterskiing season, Sadie and Willa are neck-and-neck for the top spot. But outside pressure and the threat of exposed secrets, including a long-simmering love triangle, force friends into bitter rivals, where sabotage results in a deadly twist no one saw coming. Because in the end, friends want to see you succeed…just never more than them. 4.3 stars, 35 ratings on Goodreads. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Sim One by Tom Ahern

Memoir and Creative Nonfiction

Simone sent me an email. The subject line: “Just read.” Most of us spend our lives searching for the one, but what happens after the love story? Through a series of notes and emails, Sim One captures Tom’s raw, humorous, and heartfelt reflections on loving and losing Simone, his partner of nearly four decades, to cerebral amyloid angiopathy. This love letter meets memoir explores what it truly means to love, and keep loving, even in the face of inevitable loss. From $0.99 - SHOP NOW / 


How to Train a Dog with the Happy Dog Blueprint by Maura Caldwell

General Nonfiction

New release: Tired of struggling with your dog's behavior? The Happy Dog Blueprint is your ultimate guide to raising a happy, well-behaved dog—no stress, just results. With expert tips on everything from puppy training to helping rescues thrive, this book uses proven, positive techniques to create a strong bond and tackle common challenges. Perfect for the whole family. "I was very surprised how in-depth this goes. Very helpful in understanding your dog and how to create positive behaviors." ~Amazon Review. 4.9 stars, 16 reviews. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Big Black Seed by Karl Beckstrand

Children and Young Adult

Children tell you the story! Watch as a tortoise, cat, pig, bird, and insects plant a mysterious black seed. What will grow as the fruit of their labors? Kids’ vocabulary blooms as they describe events. Explore this simple gardening story for beginner readers. Low stimulation for autistic children. Build kids’ minds today! From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW

 


FREE: The Pharaoh's Cats Novels from Maria Luisa Lang

Spotlight

SPECIAL OFFER - TWO FREE DOWNLOADS!

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Pharaoh's Cat Novels from author Maria Luisa Lang, two books of historical fantasy that are also full of humor—and the e-book editions of each book are currently available as free downloads!

"Witty, clever and easy to read." ~Susan Barton, eBook Review Gal


The Pharaoh's Cat

Book 1 of The Pharaoh's Cat Novels
Genres: Historical Fantasy, Humorous Fiction
4.5 stars, 228 ratings.
Paperback: $7.99
Ebook: FREE



Suddenly talking and walking upright, a stray tomcat in ancient Egypt becomes the young Pharaoh's intimate and, when accused of his murder, time travels to New York City and learns how to raise him from the dead.

The cat is a quick-witted, wisecracking narrator as well as a free-spirited, ever-curious protagonist, and the story he tells is an exotic, imaginative, spell-binding tragicomedy. The novel interweaves feline and human, past and present, natural and supernatural. It contains numerous surprises, twists and turns, intriguing characters, both human and animal, fascinating revelations about ancient Egyptian history and culture.

Praise for The Pharaoh's Cat
"A wealth of rich history here, brought to life by a talented storyteller." ~Don Sloan, justfreeandbargainbooks

"A fun book and a new take on historical fiction." ~Teresa A.Wilson, terriluvsbooks

"Great for long-time fans of cats or for readers looking for a good and fun read." ~Joss Radillo, Koko's Book Blog


The Eye of Nefertiti

Book 2 of The Pharaoh's Cat Novels
Genres: Historical Fantasy, Humorous Fiction
4.4 stars, 131 ratings
Paperback: $8.35
Ebook: FREE



Now a New Yorker, the Pharaoh’s cat travels back in time to free Egypt’s legendary Queen Nefertiti from a horrific curse, discovering firsthand why her mummy has never been found and her famous bust is missing one eye.

Added to all this is an ingenious use of the Tarot and Italian opera, making for a fabulous story that will transport readers to different locations in the past and present.

Praise for The Eye of Nefertiti
"Well-written historical fiction." ~Wendy Scott, Multi-Award Winning Author

"Highly recommended." ~Charity Rowell-Stansbury, On My Kindle Book Reviews

"Oozes with charm...a nice blend of everything from mystery, adventure, and even a touch of romance." ~Socrates Book Review


About the Author
Maria Luisa Lang was born in Rome and now lives in New York City. She often returns to Italy to visit her family and has stayed for extended periods in London and Bath Spa. She has an art degree from the City University of New York, and her artwork has been exhibited in New York galleries. She is an amateur Egyptologist. Her fascination with ancient Egypt has inspired her to write two novels set there. Loving cats, she made one her protagonist. You can learn more and follow Maria via Goodreads and via her Amazon Author Page


Free online: Mississauga Library’s Author Talk Series

Events

Free online: Mississauga Library’s Author Talk Series. Join Nicola Ross, a National Magazine Award–winning journalist, who will be discussing 40 Days & 40 Hikes, a chronicle of her hike of the Bruce Trail, Canada's longest marked trail (more than 900 kilometers!). Perfect for hikers, non-hikers, and anyone who loves an adventure. Wednesday, March 26, 6-7 PM CDT. 

“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” ~John Muir


Color You In by K. Evan Coles

Book of the Day

EMT Gus has his sights set on a promotion to paramedic. He doesn’t care that his rookie partner thinks he’d do the job better. Or that the straight, married dad is all wrong for him. Madoc restarted his career to make a better life for his daughter. He hates having to be a rookie again. Especially when he can’t stop thinking about his new boss, Gus. The partners strike up a friendship, but when crushes become real feelings and Gus bonds with Madoc’s child, will Madoc be ready to stop playing it straight? 4.4 stars, 74 ratings on Goodreads. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


FREE - The Delilah Enigma by Donald de Brier

Literary Fiction and Poetry

New release. Set in London during WW2. Follow Lt. Sarah Leach, a Brit with MI6, and Robert Johnston, an American at the OSS, as they trade secrets and sex while working for the Allied effort. Developing assets for the D-Day invasion among French Resistance fighters leads to Sarah’s capture by the SS. Her location is unknown until Bletchley Park friends reveal classified intel to Robert. Will his rescue party get to her in time? Historical events and a sweeping cast of real and fictitious characters round out this “terrific read.” FREE - SHOP NOW


Western Steps by Brian Sherlock

Memoir and Creative Nonfiction

From Australian author Brian Sherlock: "Everyone will only ever have a first solo trip...and for mine I chose to spend it with some whale sharks in Western Australia. It was a big step, but it was one I gladly took with a backpack named Luna and some undiagnosed autism for company. Sometimes I second guess myself and sometimes I don't." Find out how things turn out in Western Steps. $3.00 - SHOP NOW


New Literary, Thriller & Sci-Fi Titles from Vine Leaves Press!

Spotlight

New releases from Vine Leaves Press!
Check out the new titles released in March from Vine Leaves Press, an indie press that pushes boundaries, celebrates individuality, and amplifies unique voices. This month's new releases include Literary Fiction, Thriller, and Sci-Fi titles...

Read on to learn more!


Finding Serenissima

NEW RELEASE: March 11, 2025
Genre: Literary Fiction
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: $5.99



Widowed Amelia rediscovers love, family, and identity amidst Venice's magic.

With the help of a feisty hotel owner, an attractive water-taxi driver, and a gondola full of Italians who call Venice home, Amelia, a widowed Australian, begins her search for serenity. As the island city works its magic, she comes to realize her life has been overshadowed by her famous American husband, Leo, well before his decline into Alzheimer’s. 

As Amelia navigates Venice’s winding canals and its language, she gracefully confronts the joys and challenges of aging, discovering that love and laughter can come at any stage of life. Balancing long-distance parenting and familial obligations, she redefines what it means to live fully as an older woman, all while the magical city slowly helps her reclaim her identity.

Finding Serenissima is a heartwarming tale of second chances, exploring the complexities of long marriage, independence, and rediscovering love in the most unexpected places.

Praise for Finding Serenissima
★★★★★ “A literary gem that immediately seized my heart.” ~Caroline James, author of The Cruise

★★★★★ “A charming journey.” ~Alka Joshi, author of the NYT bestselling The Henna Artist

★★★★★ “Vibrant as a glass of prosecco.” ~Janet Newman, author of Letters from Clara

★★★★★ “Compelling, honest and ultimately uplifting story of love and loss, friendship and community, joy and self-discovery.” ~Suzanne Leal, author of The Watchful Wife


Shaken

NEW RELEASE: March 18, 2025
Genre: Domestic Thriller, Psychological Fiction
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: $5.99  



Does one irreversible mistake define you forever?

When Sally unexpectedly becomes a mother at twenty, she tries her best to build a stable life for her son, Morgan. But the sleepless nights, overwhelming isolation, and relentless cries wear her down until she breaks, and in a moment of desperation, she does the unthinkable: she shakes her baby. Consumed by guilt and fear, Sally buries her actions beneath a facade of normalcy, but the cracks are beginning to show.

Enter Alyssa, the teenage babysitter, who is left in charge the night after the incident. As Morgan's condition deteriorates, Sally's partner, Charles, grows increasingly concerned. A series of alarming doctors’ visits spiral into a nightmare when authorities are alerted and fingers start pointing at Alyssa. Will Sally come forward and risk losing everything, or will she try to maintain the illusion of being a perfect mother—even if it means someone else takes the blame? 

Shaken explores the intense, often unspoken, struggles of new motherhood and the complexities of human fallibility. Perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Lisa Jewell, and Freida McFadden.

Praise for Shaken
★★★★★ “Shocking.” ~Valerie Taylor, author of A Whale of a Murder

★★★★★ “Gripping debut... a complex story about the nuances of love, grief, loneliness, and the moments of fear or rage that can change lives.” ~Barbara Claypole White, bestselling author of The Perfect Son

★★★★★ “Memorable characters with an unforgettable story.” ~Lisa Towles, award-winning author of Salt Island


Tick... Tick...Tick...

NEW RELEASE: March 25, 2025
Genre: Political Thriller, Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction
Paperback: $14.99
Ebook: From $5.99



Life as we know it hangs in the balance.

Harlan Stone is at the top of his game—an unflinching federal agent who reports solely to the President. But why is this highly specialized operative poking around Pennsylvania Dutch Country, grilling a back-water doctor about a sterile bull? 

Questions proliferate. Within a month, the global beef market collapses, and unexplained environmental disasters and panic strike worldwide. The Earth is spiraling toward catastrophic ruin. Eco-terrorists? Ruthless extortionists? Rogue nations? Someone’s after something, but who and why?

It’s a race against time; the future of the planet is on a stopwatch, and Harlan is the one person capable of preserving humanity.

Praise for Tick... Tick...Tick...
★★★★★ “A spell-binding tale of intrigue and science fiction.” ~Armin Shimerman, star of Star Trek: Deep Space 9

★★★★★ “An espionage farce full of sex, spies, sci-fi, and secrets with a serious message.” ~Gregory Frost, author of the Rhymer Trilogy

★★★★★ “A nail-biting thriller.” ~Lanny Larcinese, author of Get Bek


About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent.​ Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com


Writers' Room of Boston - Readings from the Room

Events

Free online: Writers' Room of Boston - Readings from the Room. Join virtually for an evening at the Writers' Room of Boston, hosted by Spencer Storey Johnson and featuring the work of Eleanor Kedney and Matt Gillick. Tuesday, March 25, 7 PM EDT. 

“Nowadays people know the price of everything and the value of nothing.” ~Oscar Wilde


Bright Eternity by Daniel Zeigler

Book of the Day

How much would you pay to cheat death? NewEden Life Sciences promises its revolutionary breakthroughs can add decades to clients' lifespans—and may even conquer death forever. But does the hype hide a darker agenda? Join gutsy journalist Carmen Norrell in her race to uncover NewEden’s secrets in this Christian sci-fi thriller. Fans of CS Lewis’ space trilogy will love Bright Eternity. Part of The Brightness Trilogy. "Extremely well done." ~Amazon Vine Voice Review. 4.8 stars, 26 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Rise of the Runners by Paul Darden

Science Fiction and Fantasy

Duante grapples with the profound loss of his parents, reflecting on a moment in a Harlem church where he felt an intense anger towards God. Now, in the sterile office of Dr. Cardoso in Manhattan, Duante contemplates the lives of strangers below, wishing he could trade places with them. His therapy sessions reveal his struggle with grief and the weight of being different at school—a burden amplified by the eyes of his peers. Duante recalls the overwhelming experience of his parents' funeral, attended by thousands. From $2.99 - SHOP NOW


FREE - Connections by R. L. Mosz

Literary Fiction and Poetry

Explore the profound meaning within our connections to one another via this collection of five stories celebrating renewal and redemption. Despite all the love and attention his family can give, Tony, the golden boy, hits the skids. Katie and Danny buy their dream house, but their future shatters when Danny becomes ill. Rowena, a college student who works as a server, has a dream that will forever change her life. And Katrin’s life is transformed by a mysterious stranger she meets on the lake. FREE - SHOP NOW / 


The Wrongful Conviction of Oscar Pistorius by Brent Willock

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

On Valentine's Day 2013, Olympian Oscar Pistorius heard a sound from his bathroom. Fearing someone was about to harm him and his girlfriend, Reeva, he grabbed his pistol and fired four shots into the bathroom. But it wasn't an intruder; instead, he killed his lover, and he was convicted of murder. Clinical psychologist Brent Willock brings a new perspective to bear on these horrific events: that Oscar's horrific actions occurred while he was in a state of paradoxical sleep. Willock uses scientific scrutiny and legal precedence to resolve the crucial anomalies surrounding the Pistorius trial. From$0.99 - SHOP NOW