How to Escape an Abusive Relationship

How to Escape an Abusive Relationship
Author: Dottie Randazzo
ISBN-13: 978-0615184241
Publisher: Creative Dreaming
Book Length in Pages: 80
Price/Currency: $10.95 US
Paperback

I never cease to be amazed at how Dottie Randazzo can pack such a powerful punch in so few words. All of her books are short and to the point, and only have a few sentences in large print on each page, but she gets her message across in a way that impacts the reader to take action. How to Escape an Abusive Relationship spoke to me so profoundly that I felt goose bumps all over while reading it. Dottie's plan is to have a plan. I know it sounds simple, and it is simple for someone who is not in an abusive situation, but her plan is doable for anyone who IS in an abusive relationship. It may not be easy, but having a plan moves the victim one step at a time toward freedom without upsetting the abuser and making the situation worse. Dottie has been there and knows what it is like to have to sneak around to get a moment alone in order to make her next move toward getting out. She has captured the mind of the victim without ever seeing herself as a victim. In fact, she sees herself (and so do I) as a smart, funny, successful woman who somehow got herself into a very undesirable and unhealthy situation. I admire her for being brave enough to refuse staying a victim and taking undeserved punishment. And, I admire her for writing this book to help others. Dottie tells exactly how she escaped the mental and emotional abuse of her ex-husband. This empowering information will help you formulate your own plan to get out alive and with a means of providing for yourself after your prison bars open.

Don't stay any longer than you have to; get started on your road to freedom now! Anyone who is in an abusive situation should GET THIS BOOK!

Three Flies Up - My Father, Baseball and Me

Three Flies Up – My Father, Baseball and Me
Author: Kelley Dupuis
ISBN: 978-1-4327-2155-8
Publisher: Outskirts Press, Inc.
Genre and Target Market: biography; father/son relationships; baseball
Publication Date: 2008
Book Length in Pages: 382
Reviewer: Sarah Moore

There certainly is no shortage of stories that have been told about the difficult dynamics of the father/son relationship. The struggle for independence and manhood, generational differences in career expectations and the battle for respect have been put on full display for centuries. Amidst the emotional issues, it is not unusual to find the sport of baseball as an essential element woven into the American father and son story. The autobiography Three Flies Up, the third book written by author Kelley Dupuis, certainly contains all of these expected components. But, this autobiography is far from the formulaic tale of familial strife and reconciliation.

We are introduced to Dupuis’ entire family throughout the course of the book, including a troubled younger sister who suffered an untimely death and a mother who maintained a positive outlook despite a difficult marriage. We also get to know the cast of characters who worked with Dupuis over the years, most memorable being those who managed to irritate the author in some capacity. Dupuis’ world travels as an employee with the State Department and contentious relationships with domestic bosses are detailed with humor. His career successes and setbacks certainly do provide a backdrop in Three Flies Up, and create the circumstances for family interactions. However, the heart of this autobiography comes from the relationship between the author and his father, Joseph Ellis Dupuis.

Dupuis explains his father’s selfish behavior in a way that makes the reader uncomfortable, if not downright angry. How is one supposed to react to a man who tells his son on his tenth birthday that he is one-sixth of his way to death or who bullied his kids as payback to some assumed wrong from his wife? Joseph Dupuis was a man who found derogatory comments to make about minority groups, focused on the negative aspects of every situation and resented any moment at which he was not receiving everyone’s full attention (even at his own wife’s funeral). But, Dupuis also creates compassion for the fragility of his father’s personality. He was a man who showed quiet moments of tenderness when singing to his son’s elderly cat or caring for his tomatoes every year in his small garden. He cried out to his son as he lay in a hospital bed and realized that dementia was overtaking him, “I used to be a man!” To imagine those words coming from my own (very complex) father made for a very painful moment of reading.

There are moments in Three Flies Up that are absolutely gut-wrenching. Anyone who has struggled with the ravaging effects of dementia, particularly with a parent, will undoubtedly relate to Kelley Dupuis’ writing. As the primary caregiver for the last year of his life, Dupuis fed, changed, and guided a father who was slipping deeper into a world of confusion and anger. He writes about his father’s return to a childlike dependence with tenderness and honesty. When the author writes about his need to escape to the kitchen just to cry and mourn the person his dad had become, you cannot help but find yourself connected to the author.

Despite a troubled relationship that at one point led to five years of estrangement, the author and his father had one interest that allowed them to speak a common language—baseball (particularly the San Diego Padres). When every other discussion had reached an impasse, the question, “What time is the game on?” could reunite the two for a common cause. Mr. Dupuis uses each baseball season and its victors as a way of marking the passage of time in this book. Interspersed with funerals, love affairs and family fights are recollections of batting statistics, lousy trades, and the annual fate of those “good boys” from the Padres. While two pages abruptly detailing the pitch count in the seventh inning of a Padres game may seem superfluous to some, anyone who finds a connection with sports and their life lessons will appreciate the perfect symbiosis.

Three Flies Up was my introduction to Kelley Dupuis’ writing and I will be making it a point to read his two previously published books. While I will never be a father or a son, I could understand the relationships detailed in this autobiography. Don’t we all have some point of remorse or resentment with our parents? How many of us embrace those elements that strengthen sometimes the shaky bonds with our family? Aren’t our close relationships often the most complicated ones? I encourage you to learn more about Kelley Dupuis and his father by reading Three Flies Up and then, if you can, join your own dad at the ballpark for a couple of beers and some cheering for the home team.

A Saving Hurricane

A Saving Hurricane
Purchase at http://www.booklocker.com/books/3527.html and on Amazon.com.

Synopsis. From one storm to another. It was the worst decision she ever made but it was for the best. Where do you go to hide from an abusive husband? Where can you disappear completely? Where can you go to save yourself and your children? You run straight into the nation’s worst disaster in history--Hurricane Katrina. Because refugees have no name, because misery loves company and because in the devastation there’s a chance to start over. In a broken New Orleans, one woman builds a new life, falls in love, but makes dangerous choices to survive.

Author Bio.Bernadette Sukley has been researching, writing and editing for over 20 years. Her work has appeared in Sports Illustrated for Women, Men's Health and Natural Health magazines. She's written and copy edited for the Danish-based expat publication, ABROAD. She currently lives in the shadow of Hawk Mountain.

Mystical Mentor: Breaking Through Barriers Finding Peace of Mind

Mystical Mentor: Breaking Through Barriers Finding Peace of Mind
Dick WarnTrafford Publishing (2008)
ISBN 9781425161651
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (6/08)


A chance encounter at an international Toastmaster meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, introduced Dick Warn to a mystical mentor who changed his life. His mentor, Russell Swank, was a self-made millionaire. He did not acquire his wealth easily. He had some hard lessons to learn on his path. Turning negative events into lessons provided him with some tremendous learning experiences. He took the author, Dick Warn, under his wing to provide him with some guidance to get him started on his journey of breaking through barriers to find peace of mind.

Mr. Warn learned we are here to learn from our experiences. We choose what kind of life we want to experience. Heaven and Hell are states of mind which we are experiencing right now. It is up to us to decide which one we want to experience. Each day is a new day that offers us a fresh start and a chance to be the person we want to be. Russell provided him with exercises to help him discover what his three top goals for living were. He also had him identify barriers holding him back. I wrote these exercises down in my journal. It was fascinating for me to realize one barrier holding me back is that I buy things I don’t need to try to fill a void that cannot be filled by things. How simple and basic this is, yet I had never put it into words prior to this exercise. Quoting Russell Swank, he states, “The battles that need to be won are within.”

There is also a very powerful exercise that involves creating a forgiveness deck of cards. On these cards you write the name of a person that has hurt you and a prayer forgiving them and releasing them. In a few short minutes of creating these cards, I found myself forgiving and releasing people. There were a few I was totally able to release in that moment. There are still a few I will need some time to work on. What is interesting is that the day before reading “Mystical Mentor,” an ex-boyfriend offered an apology for his atrocious behavior during our relationship. What a gift I received in that phone call. I feel I will be able to forgive and release him much easier now.

In addition to reading about Mr. Warn’s powerful experiences with Russell Swank, the book also offers a large selection of quotes taken from various powerful mentors who have gone before us. I really enjoyed taking the time to read and contemplate what was being said. I also found a list of books he suggests reading. I already have about a quarter of these books in my book room. Unfortunately, I had only read one of them.

I found “Mystical Mentor” to be an incredibly insightful and inspiring book. I appreciated Mr. Warn’s willingness to tell his story and to do it so openly. Once he started his journey, he still encountered some rough spots that became tremendous learning experiences. By being so candid and honest, readers will appreciate his book so much more. I am truly grateful for having the opportunity to read “Mystical Mentor.” It came along at the perfect time. Now that I am done with it, I have a reading list to get to work on. I look forward to rereading it after I have read the books on the list. Enjoy your journey.

Rue de la Pompe: A Satiric Urban Fantasy

Rue de la Pompe: A Satiric Urban Fantasy
James Earle McCracken
iUniverse (2008)
ISBN 9780595485055
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (7/08)

Let me start this review by saying that I certainly read a lot. Between my reading for work and reading for pleasure, I probably average at least 150 books a year. And since I’ve been doing this for a while, I’ve read a few good books by now. I do not find it surprising that nowadays I often feel I’ve read a variation of what I am currently reading before. Granted, all authors are at least somewhat influenced by the work of others, but all too often the similarities are too great to overlook. So it has been quite a while since I’ve read a book and thought, “Wow, this was truly different and truly refreshing…”

Well, this past weekend has been one of those “wow” moments. After having read the first couple of chapters of James Earle McCracken’s Rue de la Pompe, I had to put it down and ask myself where the author was going with his story. After a few more, I was no closer to being able to categorize the book, but I was sure having a good time. Having finished it, I still would be extremely hard pressed to describe it with any accuracy, but I feel like I would after an exhilarating day at an outstanding amusement park. It was wild; it was unpredictable; it was mad-cap and scary at times; but always witty, picturesque and never boring.

The story is deceptively simple. A thirty-year-old American living in Paris, Michael Whyte, receives a mysterious gift of formal wear and an invitation to a party on his birthday. This sets him on an epic quest for the very first French franc coin. It is the author’s truly unique approach to telling the story—through the inner voices of Michael’s different personalities (Mr. Whyte, Mikey, Smart Ass, Dumb Ass and Jackass)—and the fantastic use of the locale, Paris, which set this story apart in the best possible way. I do not know of another author who would dare to describe Paris as “On the good days, the city struck Michael as a beautiful woman who wasn’t his type; the rest of the time, Paris was a bad summer camp with weird counselors and lousy toilets.” When you add to this a cast of extremely quirky characters (a Zen-master quote-spouting jeweler, a Castilian “compact assassin,” a helpful deaf-mute, a farting statue of Benjamin Franklin, a joke-telling rhinoceros, a Doberman-like concierge, an epistemologist, an enigmatic beauty who speaks all of the languages, a couple of villains, as well as a few other more or less lunatic characters), you should not be surprised when the book turns out to be a cross between a roller-coaster, an abduction by a flying saucer, a carousel, the Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted House located in the Hall of Mirrors and completed with a few side shows.

The author manages to poke fun at pretty much everything and everybody, but he does so in a highly entertaining and intelligent way. Nobody and nothing get spared, be it the pacifistic Dutch, the Japanese tour groups, over-the-top menus filled with pretentious ingredients and complicated dishes, cheese-discussing French alligators or the sex life of elephants… I’ve enjoyed his highly individual writing style, the unorthodox story and the unbelievably peculiar set of characters immensely. A great book to brighten an otherwise uninspiring weekend, a tedious trip or a wait in a doctor’s office somewhere, “Rue de la Pompe,” by James Earle McCracken, is certainly by far the most original work I’ve read lately and I do hope the author will keep his promise about the upcoming book two.

Finish Line, the game of golf and life

Title: Finish Line
Author: James Ross
ISBN: Hard Cover 978-1-4363-3327-6/Soft Cover 978-1-4363-3326-9
Publisher: Xlibris
Genre and Target Market: Fiction; male relationships; sports
Publication Date: 2008
Pages: 289
Reviewer: Barbara Milbourn

Author James Ross is on his game, weaving his sports theme into a highly entertaining and satisfying second novel called Finish Line. He returns J-Dub Schroeder to his beloved Prairie Winds Golf Course in East St. Louis after a near ten-year absence during which he battled his unscrupulous business partner/chiseler, Lewferd Zerrmann, for what was rightfully his.

Julie and all the old regulars from the first novel, Lifetime Loser, are there to welcome him home. J-Dub’s brother, Curt, has come on board. Because of his chance meeting across a craps table more than a decade ago with the fiery Tina Ventimiglia, he introduces two new characters in the summer of 2007, during which the book takes place except for the author deftly reaching back in time for stories that provide necessary footing for the present.

We meet them in the beginning—two early teens, Justin Ventimiglia and Keith Puccio, fresh out of school and into a bit of mischief. Now they’ve got a debt to repay and lessons to learn. Curt gives them an opportunity at Prairie Winds for just that, but when the workday is over, it’s time for the game of golf; and that, true to the author’s style, has plenty to teach about the game of life.

Ross understands the importance of a villain and tension and delivers it, not in the two-legged form this time, but as an illness—possibly a life-threatening illness; one that has crept in stealthily and has to be dealt with. Its thread and threat winds and twists around the protagonist until the very end, or as James Ross would say, the finish line.

Don’t think for one moment though that you’ll be bogged down or blanketed in depression about the trials of a sick guy—far from it. This book is packed with action, stories, plot, humor, interest, and surprises. Ross clips along at his usual good pace; not one that leaves you frantic and hyperventilating on the edge of your seat, but one that richly entertains and rewards you in its fast current.

The protagonist has his finger on today’s pulse and calls it as he sees it: from how the hospital experience and medical profession has evolved, to less-than-perfect politics, to cheaters at the game, to the gaming industry. Ross provides interesting and unexpected insight into many avenues that have bearing on his story.

I savored how intimately acquainted and comfortable I became with Prairie Winds. I personally like knowing where the cart barn is and a whole lot about what (and who) is in it. I can tell you distinguishing features of several holes on the course, how to cut holes and move pins on the green, and what it feels like to walk through the front door of the clubhouse. I can tell you where the shower is, show you the imprint of Fred’s behind on the back booth, pour you a cup of coffee, or stock your cooler for the front nine. While I like all the detailed imagery that crept in when I wasn’t looking, I am crazy about the characters.

Ross is a man’s man. His characters are predominantly male and they have grown in number. They’ve got names like Pork Chop, Lug Nut, Bowtye, Captain Jer, and Paco. They play golf, play cards, gamble, work the night shift, fly planes, treat animals, and they like pretty women. Even though their histories and habits run the gambit with sometimes shocking consequences, they’re there for each other for life. They are friends, brothers, competitors, mentors, and the man next door. His female characters have presence and importance. They are socially conscious, sharp, quirky and fun.

Ross is a storyteller—a talented one. His characters come from everywhere around the world, and dialogue rolls off his tongue. His stories come full circle—back to heart, happiness, family, and all-out goodness.

Enjoy!

How to Escape an Abusive Relationship

I never cease to be amazed at how Dottie Randazzo can pack such a powerful punch in so few words. All of her books are short and to the point, and only have a few sentences in large print on each page, but she gets her message across in a way that impacts the reader to take action. How to Escape an Abusive Relationship spoke to me so profoundly that I felt goose bumps all over while reading it.

Dottie's plan of escape is to have a plan. I know it sounds simple, and it is simple for someone who is not in an abusive situation, but her plan is doable for anyone who is in an abusive relationship. It may not be easy, but having a plan moves the victim one step at a time toward freedom without upsetting the abuser and making the situation worse.

Dottie has been there and knows what it is like to have to sneak around to get a moment alone in order to make her next move toward getting out. She has captured the mind of the victim without ever seeing herself as a victim. In fact, she sees herself (and so do I) as a smart, funny, and successful woman who somehow got herself into a very undesirable and unhealthy relationship. I admire her for being brave enough to refuse staying a victim and taking undeserved punishment. And, I admire her for writing this book to help others.

I was never in as bad a relationship as the one Dottie tells about in her story, but I can relate because I wanted to leave my first marriage for many years before I actually did. Even then, I didn't have a plan for success afterward; therefore, I found myself without a place to live and with no access to the abundance of money and possessions I had previously shared with my spouse. Why didn't it occur to me to have an exit strategy?

Dottie tells exactly how she escaped the mental and emotional abuse of her ex-husband. This empowering information will help you formulate your own plan to get out alive and with a means of providing for yourself after your prison bars open.

Don't stay any longer than you have to; get started on your road to freedom now! Anyone who is in an abusive situation should GET THIS BOOK!

Thompson Western Series book review

Cattle Country and Back Trail: Two Tales from the Thompson Western Series
Erwin A. Thompson
ISBN: 0-595-40228-3
Publisher: iUniverse
$17.95 US
Reviewer: Gordon Randall

I could not remember the last time I read a Western novel, so when presented with the opportunity I thought, “Why not?” Turns out that Cattle Country Back Trail by Erwin Thompson grabbed me by the horns like a champion roper and tied up my attention tighter than a piece of wet leather.

Though it may be fiction, the author sure has a knack for this genre ‘cause I was immediately drawn into the action quicker than a drunk gun slinger on Saturday night. Thompson paints the picture with vivid descriptions of the rural countryside as well as the muddy ruts of old western towns. Thompson knows people, too. He takes you inside every character’s head so you understand where each of them came from, how they got where they are, what made them who they are, and why they act the way they do. He would have been a great cowboy psychologist!

After reading Cattle Country Back Trail, I found myself steeped in thought about how different and hard life was back then. I sometimes wonder how quickly my life would change if I were thrust into an alien environment.

The two stories told in this work have been blended without a hitch even though there is a time lapse that sort of fast forwards you. I found the book to be a thoroughly entertaining and a delightful way to spend a lazy afternoon out on the range—my back porch.

Purchase on Amazon.com
Purchase on iUniverse.com

About the Author:

Erwin A. Thompson has been writing since he was in high school. He wrote again during the war and on inclement weather days when he worked for Union Electric (now Ameren) as a gas pipefitter fixing gas leaks. Thompson has written approximately forty books and is still writing at age 91. He wrote to entertain himself and his children, which accounts for several memoirs and family history pieces as well as poems and songs! He's written twelve Westerns: Cattle Country Back Trail: Two tales from the Thompson Western Series were the first two short novels that he published in one print/binding. As the subtitle suggests, they are linked stories and characters. All Erwin’s books supply good reading with deep messages of character and community without being preachy.

Preschool Children's Book Queen Vernita

Title of Document: Book Review

Book Title: Queen Vernita’s Visitors

Author: Dawn Menge

ISBN Number: 978-1-59800-714-5

Publisher: Outskirts Press, Inc

Genre and Target Market: children, educational, fantasy

Publication Date: 2008

Book Length in Pages: 30

As the mother of a preschooler, I am always looking for new books to stir up my daughter’s imagination. Books with outdoor adventures and colorful, detailed pictures seem to be her favorites. When you add a fun way to expand her knowledge base, I am particularly excited to sit down and dig into a new story. The new book by Dawn Menge, titled Queen Vernita’s Visitors, meets the qualifications of both my daughter and me perfectly. I know the Queen will be a favorite bedtime character in our home for a long time to come.

The main character of Menge’s book is Queen Vernita, the ruler of a world called Oceaneer. Although she loves being a queen, Vernita has discovered that it can be lonely at the top. To diminish the isolation she feels in her castle, Queen Vernita decides to invite twelve of her friends to visit her – one for each month of the year. Queen Vernita and her friend of the month take their attention to the calendar one step further by deciding on a fun activity for each day of the week. Who wouldn’t want to have a huge snowball fight every Friday in February or eat apples right off the tree every Thursday in September? Queen Vernita is a hostess who knows how to show her friends a good time!

My experiences as both a parent and a teacher have taught me that repetition is important when teaching a new concept to a child. Menge goes through each day of the week on every page and always mentions the number of days each guest gets to visit (including the fact that Tommie only visited for twenty-eight days in February because it wasn’t a leap year). By the last few months detailed in the book, even the youngest readers will be able to recite the days of the week with you. Queen Vernita’s Visitors provides a fun and creative way to learn that Tuesday comes after Monday and so on. Just as important to the adult reader who is sharing the story with a child, I never felt like I was reciting the same material over and over again. The repetition serves its purpose without overpowering the enjoyment of learning how Queen Vernita and her guests spend their time together.

Children will love the exciting games and adventures that are laid out in this book. From jolly jump rope to climbing big pine trees to making pumpkin pies, these characters know how to keep themselves busy. Queen Vernita is not satisfied with watching TV or playing video games, and hopefully Menge’s readers will take the cue and try some of these fun activities themselves. Great books are often the catalyst for hours of imaginative fun.

The beautiful illustrations drawn by Bobbi Switzer add so much to the pleasurable experience that is Queen Vernita’s Visitors. The bright colors and large drawings can be used to tell a story all by themselves. With just enough detail to be interesting but not be too busy, the pictures can be used to encourage kids to have further discussions about the great times that Queen Vernita and her visitors have every day. Switzer’s pictures also provide a perfect opportunity for siblings to share this book. The older child can take pride in reading each day of the week while her younger counterpart can delight in the pictures of Queen Vernita as she makes the most out of her castle and its surroundings.

I love that the author used family members and friends as the inspiration for the characters in this book. Queen Vernita is based on her grandmother, which I imagine made for wonderful childhood visits! Dawn Menge has said that she hopes to use the Queen Vernita character in a series of books. I certainly hope that she follows through on this intention, as I promise that my daughter and I will cuddle together and read every one of her stories. Queen Vernita’s Visitors is a beautiful book that takes children and adults alike through a year of friendships and fun. It is a must-have addition to any kid’s library!

Women in the Wild West

Edith and the Mysterious Stranger
Linda Weaver Clarke

American Book Publishing (2008)

ISBN 9781589824690

Reviewed by Wendy Cleveland for Reader Views (6/08)

Edith and the Mysterious Stranger centers around the Roberts family living in the Wild West of Bear Lake, Idaho. Melinda is about to have a baby with her husband, Gilbert, but has found out that she needs to be bedridden for the remainder of her pregnancy. They enlist the help of Melinda’s cousin Edith, who is a nurse, to stay with them until the baby is born. Edith has never been married. Though many men have courted her, she seems to always find fault with each one. Melinda and Gilbert challenge each other that they will introduce Edith to two men, Henry and Joseph, with the help of Edith’s mother, Martha. Of course, Edith does not give either one of them a chance even though they continue to fight for her heart throughout. During one of Edith’s visits to her mother, she hands her a letter and tells her “We truly don’t know men until we’re married because we never know the inner person. You know, the heart, his spiritual side. We’re so busy courting and trying to impress one another that we never get to know the soul of the person.” Throughout the story, Edith receives numerous letters from this “Mysterious Stranger” each becoming more personal. Edith soon falls in love with this person even though she has never met him. Once Edith finds out who the “Mysterious Stranger” is, she is pleasantly surprised. Meanwhile, another love story is taking place between the new ranch-hand, David, and Gilbert’s 16-year-old daughter, Jenny. However, David came to the ranch with his own intentions that will be tested.

When I first started reading this book, I did not know that it was Christian Fiction nor have I ever read any. I was pleasantly surprised to find this story very uplifting. Ms. Clark did a fantastic job of portraying the importance of knowing your God Given Gifts. The history of the Wild West was also intriguing with the world of outlaws and cattle rustlers as well as the medicines and herbs they used. The doctor kept telling Melinda to take a few glasses of wine or whiskey each day for her cramping. Who knew?

The Power of the Written Word—this is the life lesson I took away from Linda Weaver Clarke’s book “Edith and the Mysterious Stranger.” In today’s society, no one writes letters anymore. Everything is done by email or telephone. Most everyone today is also materialistic looking at the outer rather than inner person. The fact that Edith fell in love with someone just by getting to know them through their letters and not seeing them was inspirational to me. Humility—if we all could just get a little of that, we would all be better people. Even though this book was a Christian love story, I would definitely recommend this to anyone interested in a good inspirational read from beginning to end. You won’t be disappointed. I’m definitely a fan and will be looking for another installment in the Roberts family saga.

The Stories of Devil-Girl

The Stories of Devil-Girl
Anya Achtenberg

Modern History Press (2008)

ISBN 9781932690620

Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (6/08)

The Devil-Girl was raised to believe that she had the devil in her, or at least he was at work in her life. Her abusive mother taught her to believe that she wasn’t worth anything. Throughout her childhood and young adulthood, Devil-Girl encountered perverts and sadists that cared only about using and abusing her. The Devil-Girl was never heard. She didn’t have a voice that was believed worth listening to. This is a really painful story to read. It made me fear for all of the “Devil-Children” out there who don’t get heard.

Achtenberg has a talent for writing scenes in vivid detail which brings them to life for the reader. It also makes the pain the Devil-Girl is suffering more real. It is inspiring to see the character turn her life around and use her experiences to help other Devil-Girls out there. This is a very good way to inspire others who are being abused to make something positive of their lives and not allow the current situation to ruin their futures. I think that it will also make people take a closer look at what is happening in the lives of people around them, especially children’s.

The Stories of Devil-Girl is the first book in the Reflections of America Series. This series “highlights autobiography, fiction, and poetry which express the quest to discover one’s context within modern society.” If The Stories of Devil-Girl is any indication of the quality of the books to follow in this series, readers will be thrilled to have access to some excellent works. If nothing else, this book is one tough act to follow.

Movie Girl Book Review

Movie Girl
Author: Christina Hamlett
Outskirts Press
$11.95 US
ISBN: 9781432718541
Reviewer: Melanie Cressman

When she is picked to write a screenplay for her school’s new movie, Laurie isn’t fazed. Soon after, she finds that she might have a need to worry.

Movie Girl is the classic untold story of a crush that takes control of someone and totally changes them without their realization. In this story, Laurie has a crush on Artie. She begins to follow Artie around, and without knowing it, pushes everyone away as she chases after him. She winds up missing cheerleading tryouts to join Chess Club, writing a love poem to herself, and nearly destroying a friendship with one of the greatest guys she knows, all the while attempting to write a screenplay for her movie.

Laurie finally decides to give up on Artie after realizing how much she has changed to become a person he might like and still has not convinced him to like her. We can all take a lesson from how Laurie stubbornly continued to like Artie despite the events that should have led her to like someone else. We just need to take the time to look around and not take our friendships for granted just because we think we want something else.

Movie Girl is a feel-good story; one that has a simple but common timeless theme—love will prevail. Everything always works out in the end, and everyone can realize that we should appreciate what is right next to us as much as what we could have. Some things are simply meant to be, and nothing, from crazy stunts to hectic scheduling, can ever change that.

About the Reviewer:
Melanie Cressman is a fourteen-year-old who enjoys reading and writing for pleasure in her free time. She has always loved the thrill of opening a new book. She began writing reviews for her school book club as they read the books nominated for the Volunteer State Book Award. She enjoys reading everything from mysteries to historical fiction, horror stories to romance. Her favorite author is currently Meg Cabot. She loves writing and hopes that she will one day be able to do it as a fulltime career and have someone else review her books!

An Interview with Texas Rangers Author Mike Cox

Mike Cox is the author of thirteen nonfiction books including a study of Texas disasters, three books on the Texas Rangers, one collection historical stories, one true crime story, a biography, a memoir and three local histories, as well as numerous magazine articles, essays and introductions for other books. He has been an elected member of the Texas Institute of Letters since 1993.

Mike’s latest work, The Texas Rangers: Wearing the Cinco Peso, 1821-1900, is the first of a two-volume comprehensive history of the Rangers published by Forge in March, 2008 (496 pages, $25.95). The second volume will release in 2009.

Writers in the Sky is pleased to host the following interview with Mike Cox, author of The Texas Rangers: Wearing the Cinco Peso, 1821-1900.

When did you decide you wanted to become an author?
My late grandfather was a freelance writer, my late father and my late mother also were writers. Naturally, I grew up thinking that ever kid aspired to be a writer. And now, I’m proud to say my youngest daughter has shown an interest – and talent – at writing.

Do you have another job besides writing?
I’ve been a writer for more than 40 years, but during most of that time, like most freelancers, I had to have a day job. For nearly 20 years, I wrote for Texas newspapers. Then I was spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety, which includes the modern Texas Rangers. I retired from the Texas Department of Transportation, where I was communication manager, in the fall of 2007.

Were you an avid reader as a child?
Absolutely. I still am as an adult. My only complaint is that I don’t seem to have enough time to read everything I’d like.

What type of books did you enjoy reading?
History, biography, science fiction, historical fiction, murder mysteries.

Tell us a bit about your latest book and what inspired you to write such a story.
In a way, I’ve been working toward The Texas Rangers: Wearing the Cinco Peso, 1821-1900 all my life. I grew up hearing stories about some of the old-time rangers from my granddad, L.A. Wilke. Then, as a newspaper reporter, I met a fair number of rangers. Finally, as spokesman for the DPS, I dealt with many rangers over a 15-year period. Most of the rangers would sooner be in a gunfight than do a media interview, so I had good job security.
I had written a children’s history of the rangers in 1990, following up in the late 90s with two collections of nonfiction stories about the rangers. In 1999, I signed the contract to do this book, which I hope will stand for a long time as the definitive history.

From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?
Much longer than I anticipated. Fortunately, in Bob Gleason with Forge Books, I had a very patient editor.

Describe your working environment.
I work at home in a book-and-memorabilia-filled office. Probably could use a little Feng Shui work!

Are you a disciplined writer?
Yep, pretty much. I love to fish, hunt and camp, but I try to write at least something every day. I don’t miss many days out of the week.

Have you ever suffered from writer’s block?
Rarely. Don’t have the time. And as a newspaperman, I quickly learned to write no matter how I felt because I had to if I wanted to stay employed.

How was your experience in looking for a publisher?
I was already an established author, so it wasn’t too hard. Interestingly enough, I’ve never sold anything through an agent, though I have had several.

What words of advice would you offer those novice authors who are in search of one?
Join a good writer’s group like the Writers’ League of Texas, read books on writing and attend workshops. Oh, and just start writing.

What type of book promotion seems to work best for you?
I’m still trying to figure that out. I have a publicist who has done some good things to get my book noticed and would certainly recommend her.

What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?
My dad constantly told me “show, don’t tell” and my mother finally taught me to write in active voice.

Do you have a website/blog where readers may learn more about you and your work?
www.mikecoxonline.com
www.lonestarbooks.blogspot.com
www.saddlebagbooksonline.com

Do you have another book in the works?
I’m putting the finishing touches on the second volume of the Texas Rangers book.

Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?
I haven’t decided yet…well, I am at work on a book about Texas UFO stories. Let me hasten to stress that I don’t believe in little green men – or women, for that matter – but I do believe in good folklore.

Anything else you’d like to say about yourself or your work?
If you read my book on the rangers and like it, spread the word. If you’re interested in a writing career, I highly recommend it and wish you the best of luck.

More about Mike Cox:
Since 2000, Mike has written a syndicated weekly newspaper column called “Texas Tales” on interesting, little-known incidents in Texas history. In 1982, he began writing “Texana,” a Texas book review column for the Austin American-Statesman. He has written travel articles for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and for more than two years wrote a weekly column on legislative and statewide news for the Texas Press Association.

His byline regularly appears in a number of national and statewide magazines, including Texas Highways, Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine and Texas Sportsman. In addition, he has written articles and monographs for a wide variety of Texas historical associations, museums and non-profit organizations.

Mike is also an accomplished and experienced public speaker, on such topics as the Texas Rangers, free-lance writing, leadership, and media relations.

He retired in the fall of 2007 as Communication Manager for the Texas Department of Transportation, where he handled media and internal relations on highways and other transportation issues.

Prior to that, he spent more than 15 years with the Texas Department of Public Safety as Chief of Media Relations and Public Information Officer. In between, he was Director of Member Services for the Texas Press Association. Earlier, he was an award-winning newspaper reporter for nearly 20 years, most of that time with the Austin American-Statesman.

Mike lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Linda, 14-year old daughter Hallie, one dog (Abby) and one cat (Amy). He and Linda own Saddlebag Books and specialize in selling used and rare Texana and Western Americana.

Book Reviews for June 2008

Bloodstone Castle
Mirella Patzer
ISBN-13: 978-0978486525
http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=00100fNjb-GSUgtC-DShr5ZJQItpWGwVZHLMp3mVk7pPYzaKkhiIlF9Q3n9vYipWqQKC9-ShtWg1g_Si5lItTzXr_pKBOkM8V2anInVT20skjar3KLWxAqyZw==

Bloodstone Castle stands sentinel on the shores of the Ligurian Sea. Secreted somewhere in its dungeons is an ancient Roman treasure of immense value. Contessa Morena of Bloodstone Castle possesses a mysterious bloodstone pendant, the only proof the treasure exists.

Since childhood, she has been promised in marriage to Duke Ernesto of Savona. Ernesto is a desperate man, a gambler who has lost his family's fortune, a man who resorts to murder, not once, not twice, but three times to keep from paying his debts and to hide his dirty secret. Marriage to the lovely Morena will make the treasure his and restore his power and desperate circumstances.

After the brutal murder of his father, Duke Amoro of Genoa swears two oaths. The first is to avenge his father's death. The second is to honour his father's dying wish and wed Morena of Bloodstone Castle and end the violent feud with between their two families. He severs his affair with his mistress, Laria, and departs for Bloodstone Castle to propose to Morena. But Morena refuses to marry him. Her life thrown into chaos, Morena must choose between obligation and honour, truth and lies, good and evil. She must honour the betrothal her father arranged with Ernesto. Amoro continues to try to convince Morena otherwise. Ernesto arrives at Bloodstone Castle to claim his bride, but finds Amoro there. The two men confront each other with much animosity.

Then, when the murdered body of Morena's father is brought home, Amoro helps her with his burial, then her and takes her to his home in Genoa. He is fiercely protective over her. This angers Morena at times because she insists upon her independence. While she is conducting an act of charity, she notices Amoro's men following her. As she tries to escape, she falls from her horse and is taken back to Amoro. When Amoro agrees to allow Morena full independence, they set a wedding date. Laria and Ernesto meet and together they plan to separate Amoro and Morena.

On the day of the wedding, Morena falls into the clutches of Ernesto. Amoro arrives to rescue her and the two men agree to battle each other - winner gets the girl. Ernesto cheats and Amoro is held prisoner. Morena realizes her love for Amoro and to save his life, agrees to marry Ernesto. Laria is free to pursue Amoro again. But Amoro continues to refuse Laria. When Laria learns that Ernesto plans to kill Amoro, she aids Morena in a daring rescue to Amoro and his men.

In medieval Italy, two men face each other with ruthlessness and intensity. Enter their world of splendour and depravity, of passion and wickedness. It is Italy's most dazzling and dangerous age, and as Duke Amoro of Genoa and Duke Ernesto of Savona match wits and cunning, it is a dance the death to decide which one of them will win the hand of the beautiful Countess Morena and the hidden treasure of Bloodstone Castle.

Sarah's Journey
ISBN: 978-1-897559-01-7
Available from http://www.eternalpress.au/
Cherokee, Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance

Sarah Collins leaves on a wagon train only to be ambushed by Indians. When she finds she is alone in the middle of nowhere, she searches for a town before she runs into anymore Indians. Nathaniel Grey Wolf Elder had done some scouting and traveling with the army. He would do anything to have a home and saves every penny he makes to buy a piece of land.

Sarah Collins remembers the war cries that sliced through the air, killing everyone on the wagon train. When she is left defenseless, she later awakes to find she has been rescued by an Indian. Wolf finds Sarah after she has been snake bit and does everything to save her. She learns he is a half-breed, his mother an Indian, his father, a white man. He will take her to Independence but informs white people can be hateful to those who are with an Indian. He has a good friend, Miss Maggie that will give her a place to stay. Sarah and Wolf form a very close relationship but others are determined to destroy. Can temporary traveling companions find love in each other’s arms to make a difference in the world?

Sarah’s Journey is an incredible adventure into the life and loss of those that lived during rough times. The hatred, prejudice and hardships many faced were an everyday occurrence. I liked Maggie and was glad there were a few people as kind as she. The rift between Wolf, the white men, and Sarah, is very well written. A great plot, rich characters and a stunning tale hard to let go, Ginger Simpson has a way of allowing the reader to share in the great adventure in this recommended read that really pulls at the heartstrings. Be prepared for an awesome read.


Movie Girl
Author: Christina Hamlett
Outskirts Press
$11.95 US
ISBN: 9781432718541
Reviewer: Yvonne Perry

Have you ever liked someone so much that you began assuming they shared your affection and admiration? This type of mental outlook clouds our reality and causes us not to see what is really happening around us. The relationship with the person who was truly meant for us doesn’t have a chance to blossom because we are so attached to the outcome that we can’t see past what we think should happen. This is the case with Laurie Preston in Movie Girl.

The story begins when the would-be lovers are barely teenagers. Laurie falls in love with Artie the first time she sees him and begins to pursue her dream of marrying him. However, Artie is oblivious to her feelings for him. He hardly knows she exists. The nonchalant coincidentally-on-purpose meetings she sets up to “run into” him are more clumsy and accidental than she planned, and he doesn’t gets the message. Instead, he has her write a poem for his girlfriend, whom Laurie assumes is none other than herself!

Being the youngest in a family of writers, Laurie has a natural talent for writing and everyone at school knows it. Therefore, when Paul Revere High School is awarded a grant to allow the school to film a movie, Laurie is the sophomore chosen to write the script. From asking him to be on the writing committee to playing the lead role, Laurie tries everything to get the unsuspecting future-father-of-her-children to notice her—she even joins the high school chess club in an effort to sit next to him.

Once the script begins to take shape, Laurie’s infatuation for Artie becomes more and more obvious. With names like MacArthur Wedlock and Lauren Trueheart and the setting in the fog-shrouded moors, the committee has to help open her eyes to a better storyline.

Hamlett uses the book as a teaching tool. Not only is there a lesson in the moral of the story, and take-home value demonstrated in family relationships, but the reader also learns something about writing for screenplay and how it differs from writing a book. A book is written with great detail given to imagery, plot, character, and scene. A screenplay has a special formatting with a lot of white space and only minimalist description other than to say who enters when and where.

The truth about Artie comes out in a heart-breaking manner, but it also opens Laurie’s eyes to an even greater truth. The friend she has been ignoring and continuously pushing away is almost lost before she realizes what a treasure he is.

Christina has developed her story well and told it in a manner that both adults and teenagers will appreciate. While the story is set among teenaged characters, it deals with such a mature topic that anyone, any age can benefit from the reading. It gives adults a glimpse into what teens deal with; it gives teens a reminder to utilize family dynamics and allow the adults who love them to play an active role in their daily triumphs and frustrations.

The story has a happy ending with many lessons learned. I highly recommend this book.

Book with a View

More book reviews for June 2008.

Positive Force
Author: Tim Stewart
Publisher: Nightengale Press
ISBN: 9781933449579
$ 15.95 US
Reviewed by Melanie Cressman

As I picked up Positive Force, the cover immediately caught my eye like a Wassily Kandinsky painting. I flipped it over to peruse the summary, and I was instantly fascinated. I opened the front cover and plunged into the novel.

When Officer Brandon James begins to investigate cases on gang violence within his community, things get horribly out of control, sending his family into shock, his life into turbulence, and his sons’ reality into a fuzzy haze. Without the semblance of their normal reality, their world is again changed when a ghost joins their ranks. Soon the situation becomes more drastic and Officer James knows that he must do something to interfere with the gangs.

Deciding to take action, his two sons go undercover as new gang members to get an insider’s perspective. His sons, along with the help of some unlikely friends, convince the local gang forces to create Positive Force, a cumulative gang that brings people together to do good for the community.

With a plot driven by seemingly un-related coincidences, and writing that is crystal clear and concise, Positive Force is the story of people taking several negative aspects of a situation and creating something positive that can truly make a lasting impact on everyone in their community. The characters bring the conflict between good and evil to life in an intriguing way. This book will not only inspire readers, but it will also enthrall, charm, and help to stimulate pressing questions about whether or not our reality is the best it could be.


Lifetime Loser

Author: James Ross

ISBN: 978-1-4257-8208-5

Publisher: XlibrisGenre and Target Market: fiction; male relationships; legal drama

Publication Date: 2007Book Length in Pages: 327
Reviewer: Sarah Moore

J.W. Schroeder (known as J Dub) is one shot away from getting the score he needs to become a member of the PGA Tour. He has played well throughout this qualifying tournament, and his confidence is peaking. His wife, Marcia, is standing nearby, pregnant with their first child. She questions the unstudied approach that J Dub is taking to such a crucial swing, while his suddenly swelling ego allows him to believe nothing can go wrong. Marcia’s doubts prove warranted when J Dub fails to earn a spot to play his beloved golf game professionally. With all of the family’s hopes and dreams riding on that ill-fated shot, what will be next for the Schroeders?

So begins the first foray into the literary world for author James Ross. Over the next 300 pages of Lifetime Loser, Mr. Ross takes us through twenty-three years of J Dub’s life and introduces us to a cast of unforgettable characters. J Dub and his wife are lured to Illinois by the villain of the novel, Lewferd “Lew” Zerrmann. Lew asks J Dub to manage a golf course he just acquired, with promises of eventual ownership and a life-changing fortune. However, as the novel unfolds, we realize that failing to keep his word is the least of Mr. Zerrmann’s unappealing qualities. Lew and his business associates introduce the well-intentioned J Dub to a world of murder, perversion, tax evasion and a demented fascination with a genocidal dictator. What could go wrong?

One of the strongest parts of Lifetime Loser is the detailed attention to character development that Mr. Ross pays to each player in his story. We learn the background story for each person, from high school experiences to luck with women to professional successes and failures. The readers also receive vibrant physical descriptions … for better or for worse! I found myself rooting for J Dub and his family, while becoming more sickened by each new detail that was shared about Lew Zerrmann. The emotional investment that I staked in these characters was directly due to Mr. Ross’ determination to make these people three-dimensional and complete in their personalities.

I also was drawn to the layout that Mr. Ross uses to develop his storytelling. While the entire novel is written in the third person, the person, issue … and even year … of focus changes from chapter to chapter. We are let into the homes of the characters and even unexpectedly taken back in time to provide context for the plot. There are also lapses allowed in the chronology so that the reader is given the opportunity to fill in the details based on what we have learned about the people and their situations. Ross manages to elegantly fold these different snapshots together to create a novel rich in detail.

Readers should not expect a quick and casual read that can be completed in one afternoon. The text of Lifetime Loser is dense and needs to be read carefully. I found several instances in which I flipped back to chapters I had already read just to see how a particular aspect of the plotline had shown hints of itself before fully unfolding. The need to go back and forth in my reading was not due to any shortcomings on the part of Mr. Ross’ writing, but was instead based on my interest in how Ross managed to get the intricate story to its current point.

This initial offering, Lifetime Loser, by James Ross is a great novel for anyone who appreciates the art of creating strong characters on the written page. It is not often that I find myself audibly gasping in reaction to a development in a novel, but the actions of the main players in Lifetime Loser made me do just that. This book is certainly a page-turner, but with a plot that deserves your time to give it a slow and deliberate read. I have no doubt that you will be amazed by some of the situations that our protagonist faces as he simply tries to support his family by helping others play the game that he loves. Ross has a creative mind that translates well to each page of his first book. I look forward to meeting the other people who I hope James Ross chooses to create in the future.

Book Reviews Published in Writing Newsletter

Narrow Lives
Tyler R. Tichelaar
Marquette Fiction (2008)
ISBN 9780979179037
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views

Tyler R. Tichelaar’s novel “Narrow Lives” is a collection of short stories, all of them connected by one character – Lysander Blackmore. While Lysander might not appear much in some of them – and in others he’s already dead, he has greatly influenced the lives of all characters who tell us their stories. Their lives – for various reasons – have not been lived fully; hindered by various character flaws or simply by lack of confidence.

All of the stories, seven in total, are written as first-person narratives. They are united by the central figure of Lysander Blackmore, but they are also connected and very much defined by their locale, the town of Marquette. Marquette provides the perfect backdrop for the everyday humanity and the struggles we all face daily.

It would be difficult to decide which of the stories touched me most deeply, since I connected with every single one of them. It did not matter whether the narrator was young or old, male or female, rich or poor—all of their stories resonated with me. They also all made me vow that I will not be stopped in my endeavors and that I will try to live my life as fully as possible – each and every day. Reading about other people’s regrets, misgivings and misfortunes made me all the more determined not to falter.

Tyler R. Tichelaar’s writing is rich and powerful. Even the shorter stories pack a powerful punch. The longest of them, Scofield’s story, which takes up nearly half of the book, is a novel in itself. Well-rounded, believable characters and life situations which sound familiar, yet fresh, guarantee reader’s enjoyment of this charming collection of stories. The very helpful “Principal Characters” section helps the reader keep all of the numerous individuals straight, something that would probably be impossible without that handy section.

“Narrow Lives” is a great book about human nature and the influence some people have over others, this book would probably be even more enjoyable for the readers who are familiar with the U.P. of Michigan. If you aren’t one of those, it might make you want to go there and explore. And if you just decide to do some armchair travelling, this is a good book to do just that.

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Stolen Fields: A Story of Eminent Domain and the Death of the American Dream
Jean Boggio
Colerith Press (2008)
ISBN 9780979933042
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views

Stolen Fields is a story of the American Dream gone wrong. It is a story of hatred, bitterness, ambition, and greed. It is also a story of “What If” and “If only.” What if eminent domain had not taken the Cole property? If only Grandfather Cole had been able to build his prosperous ventures?

Jean tells of growing up as a descendant of the strong-willed and vibrant Cole family. In the first few chapters she gives the reader a glimpse into the historic heritage and of the hard working Coles and the economic success of the fertile farm on Neville Island near Pittsburg. The Cole farm on Neville Island was known as “The Market Basket of Pittsburgh.”

Jean Boggio consistently and fairly shared two sides of a story. I felt bonded to the family as I listened as Jean shared lighthearted gossip through the stories handed down from one generation to the next, fairly reporting on two completely different perspectives of the perceived facts.

During the years of 1918 and 1919 toward the end of WWI, the United States government came up with a plan to rival the German Krupps Works that provided munitions for the German juggernaut. Neville Island was selected to be the site for the project. The government officials invoked the process of eminent domain to seize the property for public use. The project had only begun when the Armistice was signed. The government no longer needed the land. It was put it up for public auction.

The Cole family, distraught by loss of the home that had been in the family for over a hundred years, held out in an attempt to negotiate a fair market price. After a great deal of harassment and the fear of arson they were forced to accept the government-determined price.

Family accounts, newspaper research, and historical sources, as well as her own memories provided Jean Boggio with the material for this remarkable account of the Cole’s of Neville Island and the impact of eminent domain on the dreams of her parents, their children, and ultimately on the generations that follow. Although there were feelings of hatred, and bitterness by members of the Cole family, theirs is a journey that resonates with a sense of accomplishment, pride, and promise.

This is more than a leisurely nostalgic stroll down memory lane. Jean’s vivid descriptions draw the reader into the experience of being a part of her childhood at the Sandy Lake farm. She has the amazing ability to turn everyday circumstances and events into entertaining, often humorous, stories that resound with simplicity, warmth, and reality. Jean uses flashbacks depicting scenes from her childhood. She reveals details of her relationships with her sister, her parents, her grandparents, Aunt Gladys, Uncle Robert, Uncle Ned, and her cousins. These colorful characters provide dramatic word pictures bringing an excitement to the otherwise routine life for the Cole’s from Neville Island. Family photos are included throughout the book to illustrate the events. These pictures add another dimension and a sense of relationship to the Cole family.

I especially enjoyed Jean’s openness in relating college relationships and her early experiences in New York City. As an aspiring actress she was sympathetic to the beatnik culture. I appreciated her positive writing even in light of romances gone awry, family relationships gone amok and personal goals unattained. Jean gained a broad range of work experiences in corporate offices, in the field of education, and ultimately in the medical field as a nurse.

Strong writing, thorough research, and an objective look into the avarice that often accompanies the process of eminent domain make “Stolen Fields” a significant contribution to the history and future restructuring of a process often misunderstood and abused.

As a memoir writer Jean Boggio is a gifted storyteller. Her vivid descriptions and characterizations insure that the enjoyment of her writing will linger long after reading the final chapter. “Stolen Fields” is a rich and entertaining reading experience.

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Book reviews submitted to this blog are also published in Writers in the Sky Newsletter. You may subscribe to the writing newsletter and submit your book review.

Writing for Teens with Marc Loranger

Virtually meet Marc Loranger, author of a teen fiction titled You're It as he joins Barbara Milbourn today on Writers in the Sky Podcast.

Born in Welland, Ontario, Canada, Marc is the youngest of seven children. He graduated from Salem College in West Virginia with a degree in Broadcasting and has worked at several media outlets over the last twenty years or so. You’re It is actually part 2 of an exciting, new adventure series he has developed. He released his first book Diamond In The Rough in 2004. Marc Loranger is currently living in Oakville, Ontario. Marc also writes poetry and short stories to keep his creative juices flowing.

Click here to listen to the interview...


Here is a brief synopsis of the book:


You're It picks up where Diamond In The Rough left off. If you like reading a story that has you hanging on to every word, then this book will leave you breathless and wanting more after each chapter. Who would have guessed that an innocent looking baseball card would send three boys into a world of espionage and murder. Join James, Corey and Jed on this nonstop thrill ride. Just make sure you fasten your seatbelt first.



For more information about Marc Loranger please visit www.outskirtspress.com/youreit.



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Listening to Writers in the Sky Podcast on a computer is easy. Just click this link: http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com/ and go to my blog.On the right sidebar there is a list of archived shows. Click on the interview you would like to hear and it will open a post that has a link to the audio file.

Writers in the Sky Announcement from Yvonne Perry

AUTHOR’S CORNER BY YVONNE PERRY

My parent’s fiftieth wedding anniversary is June 6, 2008. I’ll be traveling to Georgia (Gwinnett County) on Saturday evening to celebrate with them on Sunday. That happens to be the same weekend that I am giving two workshop presentations on Book Promotion in the Digital Age: Online Book Marketing at the 2008 Tennessee Writers Alliance 3rd Annual Writer's Conference at Battleground Academy in Franklin, Tennessee. I’m looking forward to both events and even bought a new camera so I’ll be able to share some photos with you.

Lillian Brummet and I had a delightful discussion about freelance writing on Conscious Discussions Talk Radio show on May 22. What does it take to be a successful freelance writer? The answer and the audio may be heard on Blog Talk Radio or you may Click here to listen....

I am proud to announce that WITS team member Taryn Simpson’s book The Mango Tree Cafe, Loi Kroh Road has won Best Online Marketing in the 2008 Indie Book Awards. As a result, Taryn and co-author Alan Solomon will be receiving a gold medal and the book will be categorized as a winning novel. Finalists and winners will also receive a listing in the 2008 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Catalog which will be distributed to book buyers, media, and others. She will receive exposure for a full year at http://www.indiebookawards.com/. Way to go Taryn! Read more about this book and view the video trailer at http://www.mangotreecafe-loikrohroad.blogspot.com/.

By the way, Taryn is able to create video trailers (just like movie trailers) for your book. She recently completed one for Barbara Techel and Frankie the Walk'n Roll Dog that gave me goose bumps, and made me cry and laugh! You have to see it! http://www.joyfulpaws.com/ < class="MsoNormal">

Those of you who have published a teen/tween book and would like it reviewed by a teenager, should contact me. Melanie Cressman is a fourteen-year-old who enjoys reading and writing for pleasure in her free time. She has always loved the thrill of opening a new book. She began writing reviews for her school book club as they read the books nominated for the Volunteer State Book Award. She enjoys reading everything from mysteries to historical fiction, horror stories to romance. Her favorite author is currently Meg Cabot. She loves writing and hopes that she will one day be able to do it as a fulltime career, and have someone else review her books! Be sure to read her review in this month's issue of Writers in the Sky Newsletter.