A Life Through Books

Friday, September 26, 2025

Book Blitz: Campus of Shadows by Jo Loveday #thriller #psychological #horror #rabtbooktours @JoLoveday @RABTBookTours
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A Psychic Battle for the Soul

 

Psychological Horror Thriller

Date Published: September 23, 2025

 


College is rough, but being possessed by a vengeful spirit who wants you to murder your old boss? That’s next-level.

Freshman year was supposed to be a fresh start. But between his party-animal roommate, mounting anxiety, and a creepy black vulture that keeps showing up at the worst possible times, he’s barely keeping it together.

Then the nightmares begin. The voices. The blackouts. And soon, he’s not sure if the darkness closing in is stress… or something else entirely. Something old. Something angry. Something that wants revenge and has chosen him to deliver it.

With his mind slipping, his only hope is a friend who refuses to give up on him… even when the person she’s fighting to save might already be gone.

 

About the Author 


Jo Loveday is the award-winning author of gripping psychological thrillers and chilling horror novels that will keep you up way past your bedtime with just enough romance to make your heart race for more than one reason. Her stories delve into the shadowy edges of the human psyche, exploring morality, madness, and the eerie unknown that lurks beneath the surface of everyday life.

With a background as a registered nurse, Jo brings both compassion and clinical insight to her work, offering an authentic and unsettling look into the human condition. Whether it's a slow descent into madness, a supernatural presence worming its way in, or a moral dilemma that haunts the characters long after the story ends, Jo’s writing grips you by the soul and stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Born in the frosty tundra of Winnipeg, Canada, Jo eventually escaped the cold when a job offer in Florida lured her south. Now a dual citizen of Canada and the U.S., she divides her time between Florida, Georgia, and frequent pilgrimages to Winnipeg. You can find her lurking online at JoLoveday.com.


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Virtual Book Tour: It Takes a Forest by Jessie Todd Mayfield #interview #childrensbook #Rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
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Juvenile Fiction

Illustrator: Amanda Ravensdale

Date Published: June 10, 2025

Publisher: Lucid Books Publishing



It Takes a Forest is a heartwarming tale of courage, community, and the bonds that hold us together. When Mama Wolf discovers her den is no longer safe for the winter, she must make a difficult decision to protect her young pup, Caleb. In the midst of a fierce snowstorm, they venture through the forest in search of a safe haven. Along the way, they encounter creatures who, though kind, are unable to provide shelter. Just as hope seems to dwindle, Mama Wolf finds a family willing to take Caleb in.

As Mama Wolf departs with a tender kiss, Caleb is left with a swirl of emotions-doubt, fear, and curiosity. Can Mama truly repair their den? What will it be like to live with a new family? And most importantly, will she keep her promise to return?

Join Caleb on his journey of discovery as he learns what it means to be part of a new family, while Mama Wolf works tirelessly to secure their home. Through the experiences of both Caleb and his foster family, this enchanting story reminds us all that raising little ones in safety and love takes not just a parent, but an entire forest.





Interview

What is the hardest part of writing your books?

The hardest part about writing books is everything that comes after the initial inspiration and creation of a new idea— the editing, rewriting, and then the waiting for publication. It’s a long time between the fun part of creating something new, and then seeing it reach other people.

 

What are your most played songs?

My husband’s music— The David Mayfield Parade— have some of my favorite songs including “Sapphire Town” and “Never Knew I Could.” But I also love the whole You Don’t Own Me Anymore album by the Secret Sisters.

 

Do you have critique partners or beta readers?

My husband, David, is always my first reader. Then my sisters and parents are great readers and writers themselves and give excellent feedback.

 

What book are you reading now?

I’m enjoying rereading some old favorites this fall. I am currently reading The Catcher and the Rye, which was my favorite as a teen.

 

How did you start your writing career?

I have always been writing privately, but a couple years I was challenged to try to write a book based on my little brother’s adoption story. That inspired me to create something I had never tried before— children’s literature— and it’s been such a fun adventure.

 

Tell us about your next release.

I don’t have another book completed, but there are several projects brewing. I am excited to share about them when the time comes.

 


About the Author

 

 Jessie Todd Mayfield lives in Akron, Ohio where she works as a labor and delivery nurse by night and writer by day. She is passionate about children’s literature from her years of teaching English abroad, and about at-risk children from her family’s own involvement with the ministry Safe Families for Children and foster care—namely her youngest brother, Jacob, who was adopted from foster care. Jessie loves to write songs and travel the country with her bluegrass musician husband, David, who is her greatest encourager and sweetest soulmate. She is grateful for her family who has championed this project, and the many families doing the hard work of making their homes a safe place for children—whether theirs or someone else’s.


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Thursday, September 25, 2025

Book Blitz: Earth's Last Encore by Logan Peterson #scifi #sciencefiction #rabtbooktours @exoticmanuever @RABTBookTours
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Science Fiction

Date Published : 07-24-2025



Saddled with a dying sun, humanity has no time to catch its breath after barely fighting off alien invaders. A defective yet determined super-soldier, Lieutenant ‘Duck’ Diaz shoulders the task of proving humanity’s worth to the Stellarans, an advanced alien species offering salvation.

Haunted by his failures and mistrusted by those he fights to save, Duck finds an unexpected ally in Hannily, the Stellaran princess who believes in the potential for unity. Together, they must bridge the divide between two fractured worlds, confronting betrayal, cultural rifts, and their own doubts to give humanity a second chance at survival—or risk losing everything to the void.

 

About the Author


I am a working new father and served in the US Army where I drew inspiration for Earth’s Last Encore. I am a nerd at heart for Anime, Kpop, TCG’s, you name it. When I’m not writing overly introspective work I’m playing with my Corgi and new son. I currently reside in the Minnesota Twin Cities.


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Virtual Book Tour: The Patron Saint of Lost Girls by Maureen Aitken #giveaway #literary #interview #fiction #shortstories #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
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Literary Fiction / Short Story Collection

Date Published: 09-16-2025

Publisher: Wayne State University Press



In 1970s and '80s Detroit, the city wrestles with an unending economic downturn, increasing violence, and white exodus to the suburbs. Amid all of this is twentysomething Mary who is just trying to grapple with her identity in a world filled with uncertainty.

In this collection of linked stories, we follow Mary as she seeks to cope with and withstand hardship and confront her fears of exploitation, abuse, and death. Along the way, she delves into the complex yet nurturing relationships with her family and friends who teach her to love better, live fuller, and question power. The Patron Saint of Lost Girls presents an unflinching tale of life in the late twentieth-century postindustrial Midwest.

 



Interview


What is the hardest part of writing your books?

The hardest part is knowing when it’s done. I like the revision process but at some point you have to let it go.



What are your most played songs?

Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and 5th Symphony.

Not Like Us

Lose Yourself

Because the Night

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons



Do you have critique partners or beta readers?

I have two writing groups. They are lovely. We meet once a month. They always offer insights that inspire me to look at the bigger picture and scope of the work.



What book are you reading now?

I am re-reading Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, which is such a fantastic book.



How did you start your writing career?

I started as a kid. I wrote a lot and won some Scholastic Awards.



Tell us about your next release.

I have a flash fiction collection about dementia. It is really about the love of a mother and daughter.


About the Author


Maureen Aitken’s short-story collection, The Patron Saint of Lost Girls, received a Kirkus star, the Nilsen Prize, and the Foreword Review INDIE Gold Prize for General Fiction. It will be reissued in September, 2025 by Wayne State University Press. Her stories have earned a Minnesota State Arts Board’s Artist Initiative Grant, a Loft Mentor Award, an award from Ireland’s Fish Short Story Prize, and two Pushcart Prize nominations. It was also nominated for a Minnesota Book Award. Her stories have been published in Prairie Schooner and New Letters, among others. This is her second story featured in The Missouri Review’s Blast section.


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Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Teaser: Buddy by Jim Roelofs #excerpt #teaser #nonfiction #biography #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
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Overcoming Cerebral Palsy, Abandonment, and Poverty


Nonfiction / Biography

Date Published: August 29, 2025



In a world where resilience shines through adversity, "Buddy: Overcoming Cerebral Palsy, Abandonment, and Poverty" offers a moving portrait of a life lived against the odds. Written by a retired radiologist who unexpectedly discovered the power of storytelling, this book chronicles the extraordinary experiences of Buddy, a man with Cerebral Palsy who has defied societal expectations and personal challenges.

The narrative begins on a seemingly ordinary summer bike ride, where Buddy’s remarkable spirit first captured the attention of his fellow cyclists. Despite facing the trials of abandonment and poverty, Buddy's polite demeanor and thoughtful presence soon revealed the depth of his journey. As conversations around the picnic table echoed the desire to share his story, a reluctant author was born. With the encouragement of friends, family, and a determination to honor Buddy's incredible life, the author embarked on a mission to bring this inspiring tale to light.

Through a series of heartfelt interviews, we delve into Buddy’s memories that trace back to early childhood, uncovering a treasure trove of experiences that illuminate his unyielding strength. With contributions from friends who painted the backdrop of his life, this book is not just a biography; it's a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome.

"Buddy" is a compelling read for anyone who believes in the power of perseverance and the importance of sharing our stories. Join the author as he takes you through the highs and lows of Buddy’s life, revealing the beauty of friendship, the struggle for acceptance, and the enduring hope that shines through even the darkest of circumstances. Discover why, "If not me, then who?" is a question that resonates deeply within all of us.


Excerpt

Prologue


Buddy Brown knew it.


He had seen it.


It was the vision of what he might look like if he became “Mega Rich.”


His 15-year-old cousin and her boyfriend had driven from Minneapolis to his home in Pillager, Minnesota, and 13-year-old Buddy Brown was mesmerized by their red customized conversion van. It had captain’s chairs, teardrop windows, and a bed in the back. Visualizing what he would do with his vehicle (when the time came) was no problem. He would go to the Ford dealer and ask them to modify a Ford Econoline van into a four-wheel-drive unit. Although the manufacturer had not yet produced a four-wheel-drive van, he knew they had already done it with the F-150 pickup, so adapting a van should be no problem. He would be wealthy enough to pay for the changes.


In addition to the chairs, windows, and bed, customized elements inside would include carpeting along the sides and an upholstered ceiling with tiny colored lights poking through, creating a mysterious mood. The cell phone had not yet been invented in 1973, but Buddy had a concept that a mobile phone could be placed inside a vehicle. His mind excelled at invention, mechanics, and mathematics.


Once he purchased the van, he would drive it to his parents’ home during the night and park it in front of the picture window.


When they awoke and looked outside, they would see that Buddy had made it. He was “Mega Rich.”



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Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Teaser: Viking by Harley Wylde #excerpt #teaser #mcromance #romanticsuspense #comingsoon #rabtbooktours @RABTbookTours @changelingpress
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Dixie Reapers MC (#24) Bad Boys (#2)


MC Romance

Date Published: September 26, 2025



She brought a child and a secret. He promised protection—and delivered passion.

Karoline: My world crumbled when I found out my brother was killed in action. But the shock deepened when a social worker showed up with Athena—a niece I never knew existed. With my brother’s last wish urging me to seek out his best friend, Viking, I found myself at the gates of the Dixie Reapers MC. What I didn’t expect? The dangerous, inked biker who once teased me as a kid now makes my heart race… and my body ache.

Viking: I never thought I’d see Karoline again, let alone with a kid in tow. The moment I laid eyes on her—all grown up and looking like sin—I knew I was in trouble. But with threats from her brother’s past closing in, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep Karoline and her niece safe—even if it means risking my heart and breaking every club rule. But secrets don’t stay buried, and neither does desire.

If you love protective, possessive bikers, secret baby/child tropes, and off-the-charts chemistry, Viking brings you a ride-or-die romance with heat, heart, and a hero who falls hard and fast.

 



Excerpt

All rights reserved.
Copyright ©2025 Harley Wylde

Karoline

Athena fell asleep on the couch after lunch, curled into a tight ball with Hopper the rabbit clutched against her chest. I covered her with a soft blanket, watching the steady rise and fall of her breathing, the way her copper curls spilled across the cushion. She hadn’t spoken a single word since arriving -- not to me, not to the social worker. Not even a whisper. Three hours into guardianship, and I was already wondering if I’d made a terrible mistake thinking I could do this. She was so small, so vulnerable, and so completely shut down that I had no idea how to reach her.

Lunch had been an awkward affair -- me chattering nervously about nothing while she stared at the peanut butter sandwich I’d made, taking tiny mouse bites only after I’d demonstrated that it was safe to eat. She’d followed me around the house like a silent shadow, those watchful eyes taking in everything but giving nothing away. When I’d suggested a rest on the couch, she’d climbed up without protest and simply curled into herself, as if trying to take up as little space as possible.

My heart ached thinking about what might have happened to make her this way. Kris would never have neglected her -- of that I was certain. Had the woman who’d been caring for her done something? The thought made my gut clench in protest. I’d never understand people who could harm sweet innocent children.

I glanced at the small pink suitcase the social worker had brought in, sitting untouched by the front door. Maybe there were answers there. At the very least, I needed to know what she had, what she might need.

Moving quietly so as not to wake her, I carried the suitcase to the kitchen table and unzipped it. The contents were pitiful -- a few sets of clothes, most looking worn and slightly too small. A pair of pajamas with faded unicorns. A toothbrush in a plastic case. A small stuffed dog that had seen better days. I had a hard time picturing my brother neglecting his daughter to this extent, which made me think it had been the caregiver’s fault. And at the bottom, a plastic bag containing an envelope. My breath caught when I saw my name written on the front -- Kris’s handwriting, the familiar slant of his letters making my eyes sting with fresh tears.

“Oh, Kris,” I whispered, running my fingers over the ink. It was real, tangible proof that he had existed, that he had thought of me. That he had trusted me with the most precious thing in his life.

With trembling hands, I opened the envelope and pulled out several sheets of paper. The first was a formal-looking document -- legal paperwork naming me as Athena’s guardian and requesting that I adopt her in the event of his death. It was dated just three months ago, as if he’d somehow known his time was running short. Of course, I’d already handled paperwork like this from the social worker, but seeing a copy my brother personally sent to me hit me hard.

Behind this was a handwritten letter on lined paper, folded in thirds. I took a deep breath and unfolded it.

Lina,

If you’re reading this, then I’m gone, and I’m so damn sorry for that. I’m sorry for a lot of things, especially for not telling you about Athena sooner. I wanted to. Every time we talked, every time I saw you, I wanted to tell you about this amazing little person who has my stubborn chin and your fiery hair. But I couldn’t risk it -- not until I was sure it was safe.

Athena is my daughter. Her mother was someone I met during a mission four years ago. It wasn’t serious between us, but when she told me she was pregnant, I stepped up. When Athena was born, her mother decided she couldn’t handle parenthood and signed over full custody to me. I’ve been raising her with help from friends when I’m deployed.

Here’s the part that’s going to be hard to believe, but I need you to trust me. If I died during a mission -- and if you’re reading this, that’s what happened -- then there’s a chance you and Athena could be in danger. The work I was doing was classified, and there are people who might think I told my family things I shouldn’t have. They might think Athena knows something, or that I left information with her or her caregivers.

I didn’t. I never brought my work home. But these people don’t take chances. So I need you to do something that’s going to sound crazy. I need you to take Athena and go to Lief Hansen -- Viking, as he’s called now. He’s with the Dixie Reapers MC in southern Alabama. He’ll know what to do. He’ll keep you both safe.

I know I’m asking a lot. I know you probably haven’t seen Lief in years. But he’s family to me, and he’ll protect what’s mine. And Lina -- you and Athena are mine. My sister. My daughter. The two people I love most in this world.

Just go to Viking as soon as you can. He’ll explain everything.

I love you, Christmas girl. Take care of my little one.

Kris

I stared at the letter, reading it again, and then a third time, trying to make sense of the words. Danger? People coming after Athena? It sounded like something from a spy movie, not real life. Not my life.

But Kris was dead. That part was all too real.

I glanced back at the couch where Athena slept, peaceful for the first time since I’d met her. Could someone really want to hurt this innocent child? Or me? It seemed impossible, paranoid even. Yet Kris had never been the paranoid type. If he thought there was danger, there must be some basis for it.

And Viking… Lief Hansen. The name sent a complicated flutter through my chest. In my mind, he was still the golden giant who’d called me “Little Kringle” and made my teenage heart race. But he wouldn’t be that person anymore. According to Kris’s letter, he was part of a motorcycle club now -- the Dixie Reapers. I’d never heard of them, but the name alone conjured images of rough men in leather, doing God knows what.

Could I really just show up there with a traumatized three-year-old? What would I even say? Hey, remember me, your old friend’s little sister? The one who used to follow you around like a lovesick puppy? Well, my brother’s dead, this is his secret daughter, and apparently, we might be in danger from mysterious unnamed enemies. Can we crash with you?

It was absurd. All of it.

And yet…

I looked at the letter again, at Kris’s familiar handwriting. I need you to trust me, he’d written. And I did. Always had. From teaching me to ride a bike to helping me through my first heartbreak, Kris had never steered me wrong. If he thought Viking was our best option, then that’s what we would do.

I folded the letter carefully and slipped it into my pocket. Then I walked back to the couch and knelt beside it, studying Athena’s sleeping face. Her long eyelashes cast faint shadows on her freckled cheeks. Her tiny hand clutched Hopper’s ear, keeping him close even in sleep.

“I’ll keep you safe,” I whispered, gently brushing a curl from her forehead. “I promise.”

I had no idea how to protect us from whatever danger Kris thought might be coming. But I knew who might. And no matter how awkward, how difficult it might be to face Lief Hansen after all these years, I would do it. For Athena. For Kris.

Tomorrow, we would find the Dixie Reapers.

 


About the Author

Harley Wylde is an accomplished author known for her captivating MC Romances. With an unwavering commitment to sensual storytelling, Wylde immerses her readers in an exciting world of fierce men and irresistible women. Her works exude passion, danger, and gritty realism, while still managing to end on a satisfying note each time.

When not crafting her tales, Wylde spends her time brainstorming new plotlines, indulging in a hot cup of Starbucks, or delving into a good book. She has a particular affinity for supernatural horror literature and movies. Visit Wylde's website to learn more about her works and upcoming events, and don't forget to sign up for her newsletter to receive exclusive discounts and other exciting perks.

 

Author on Facebook, Instagram, & TikTok: @harleywylde

 

Publisher on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @changelingpress

Save 15% off any order at ChangelingPress.com with code RABT15


 

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Virtual Book Tour: Not That Orange! by Bailey Adams #childrensbook #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
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Children's Book


Not That Orange is a delightful and colorful tale about self-acceptance, diversity, and embracing what makes us unique!

Carrot is on a mission—he’s searching for his orange! But there’s just one problem… he’s green! With the help of a friendly orange from a nearby tree, Carrot embarks on a journey across the farm, asking the other crops for help. But as confusion grows, Carrot soon discovers something surprising—carrots can be all sorts of colors, not just orange!

Through fun, playful storytelling and charming illustrations, Not That Orange teaches young readers (ages 3-5) an important lesson: being different is not just okay—it’s something to celebrate! In a world that often focuses on fitting in, this book encourages little ones to embrace who they are and appreciate the beautiful diversity around them.

Perfect for preschool and kindergarten-aged children, Not That Orange is a wonderful addition to any home or classroom library, inspiring kids to be confident in themselves while learning about colors, friendship, and the joy of being uniquely you!



About the Author


Bailey Adams is a children’s author and dedicated educator with a passion for literacy and creative storytelling. Based in Metro Detroit, she currently works as an elementary P.E. teacher but has also taught third, fourth, and fifth grade. With experience as a Reading & Math Coach for Kindergarten and first grade, Bailey's ultimate dream is to become an Elementary Literacy Specialist while continuing to share her love of storytelling with young readers.

Bailey’s journey as a writer began in the fourth grade when she discovered the magic of crafting stories—and she hasn’t stopped since. She embraces an organic writing process, letting ideas flow naturally from inspiration sparked by books, shows, or random bursts of creativity. Instead of following structured outlines, she prefers to sit down and let the words lead the way, trusting that storytelling from the heart produces the most genuine and meaningful work.

Despite being a perfectionist in many areas, Bailey believes that writing should be an intuitive and soulful process, with revision and refinement coming later. She is passionate about inspiring young minds through engaging, heartfelt stories and hopes to make a lasting impact in both the classroom and the literary world.


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