A Life Through Books: October 2020

Saturday, October 31, 2020

Release Blitz: Author Acceleration by Krista Dunk #promo #releaseday #authors #nonfiction #writing #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours

Non-fiction: writing, research & publishing guides/adult & continuing education

Date Published: November 1, 2020

Publisher: 100X Publishing

So, you want to write a book…but where do you begin? You have creativity, wisdom and stories to share, but how do they go from being ideas to being published?

In Author Acceleration, author and publisher Krista Dunk shares her knowledge and insights to help aspiring authors write books their readers will love. Many people have books inside them, books other people need to read, and carry them around for years, never releasing them. Whether they’ve started writing and gotten stuck or never dared to even try, there are common obstacles that can stop authors in their tracks. Krista addresses these author obstacles, giving readers practical solutions and new perspective to help them succeed. Author Acceleration also gives aspiring authors an excellent foundation of knowledge for how to develop the concept and content for their books, writing and skill building, publishing options, and book marketing ideas. If you’re ready to write, be sure you have this book in your author toolbelt!

Excerpt

For some people, being an author is a calling. For some, writing and storytelling is where their creativity lies. For others, they feel compelled to tell their story and impact people. Still for others, being an author is a hobby. Whether you write as a hobby, have a calling or hope to make writing your full-time work, all of those take dedication, know-how and help.

For those who like the idea of being able to self-publish as many books as they have in their hearts and minds, it’s very possible. You can do it with a little support and know-how. Like learning to ride a bike when you were six or to drive when you were 15, this author thing can be mastered and won’t be perplexing anymore!

As authors, we have a great opportunity. Our voice and message in written form can be far-reaching, going even beyond our lifetimes. We have a weighty responsibility. Our words will influence others, even those we may never meet. We have a unique creative outlet and expression. Authorship affords us a special way to release the gifts, messages, creativity and wisdom God has placed inside each of us. Being an author is an amazing thing.

After the many things I’ve done in my lifetime, I believe #AuthorLife is the best life. What will author life look like for you? I hope it is filled with joy and a confident satisfaction, knowing you’ve written many books your readers love and have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

About the Author

Krista Dunk is an author, speaker, real estate investor, the project director for 100X Publishing, and founder of the Author Acceleration Academy. A teacher at heart, Krista has written nine books so far. Her first book, Step Out and Take Your Place, published in 2011, helps people of God discover their God-given gifts and calling by taking a journey to seek Him. She has also published a workbook and journal to partner with her first book, a devotional, the first book in the Ninja Kitty children’s book series, books in The Abundance Plan book series, and most recently Author Acceleration, a book for authors and aspiring authors.

As a child and young adult who struggled with timidity, Krista now finds herself speaking and training in front of audiences large and small. She is passionate about helping people get a vision for how their life could look and to step out into it. Training, coaching and working with authors has been one of Krista’s greatest joys.

Krista and Chris, her husband of 27+ years, live in Washington State with their two teenagers.

Learn more at: www.KristaDunk.com

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Thursday, October 29, 2020

Book Blitz: Stillwell by Michael Phillip Cash #promo #paranormal #suspense #rabtbooktours #bookbuzz @michaelpcash @RABTBookTours @BookBuzznet

A Haunting on Long Island Series, Book 1

Paranormal Suspense

Publisher: Chelshire

Paul Russo’s wife just died. While trying to get his family’s life back in order, Paul is being tormented by a demon who is holding his wife's spirit hostage on the other side. His fate is intertwined with an old haunted mansion on the north shore of Long Island called Stillwell Manor. Paul must find clues dating back hundreds of years to set his wife's soul free.

Other Books in the A Haunting on Long Island Series:

The Flip

A Haunting on Long Island Series, Book 2

Julie and Brad Evans are house flippers. They buy low, clean out the old occupants junk, and try to make a profit. Enter Hemmings House on Bedlam Street in scenic Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island. Too good a deal to pass up, but with an ominous secret. The old Victorian Mansion has dwellers that do not want to be dispossessed. As the house reveals it's past, will the couples marriage survive The Flip?

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The After House

A Haunting on Long Island Series, Book 3

Remy Galway and her daughter Olivia are rebuilding their life after a failed marriage in a 300 year old cottage in historic Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island. Little do they know, another occupant is lurking in the haven of their own home. Will the After House be their shelter or their tomb?

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Pokergeist

A Haunting on Long Island Series, Book 4

Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch…Clutch is a ghost. Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.

Amazon

About the Author

Michael Phillip Cash is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter. His novels are best-sellers on Amazon under their genres – Young Adult, Thriller, Suspense, Ghost, Action Adventure, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance and Horror.

Michael writes full-time and lives on the North Shore of Long Island with his wonderful wife and screaming children. You can follow him @michaelpcash.

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Virtual Book Tour: Uphill and Into the Wind by David W. Reed #blogtour #nonfiction #memoir #interview #giveaway #rabtbooktours @davidreedwriter @RABTBookTours @PublishingAcorn

Non Fiction / Memoir

Date to be Published: 10/15/20

Publisher: Acorn Publishing

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It's 1973. Our nation is torn apart by the Vietnam War, and the massacre of unarmed students at Kent State. The Vice President has resigned for bribery and tax evasion. The President is being investigated for engaging in criminal activity.

At twenty-three, David Reed has become embittered by political strife and corruption. Disenchanted with his future, he wants out. Along with new friends, Rusty and Susie, David leaves everything he knows to cross the United States with little more than his bicycle and a camera.

The trio gets more than they bargain for, with menacing animals, extreme weather, and astonishing encounters.

Uphill and Into the Wind recounts an odyssey that spans 5420 miles on bicycles. It chronicles the sudden and surprising glories of nature, the raw beauty of the land, and the majesty of the mountains. But that is just the start. Through it all, the three are changed forever, in ways they did not expect, by their long journey into the unknown.

Interview

What is the hardest part of writing your books?

Trimming and polishing. Deciding what to cut, what doesn’t move the story forward. Definitely the editing phase is the most difficult.

What songs are most played on your Ipod?

I listen to Sirius XM. My favorites are classic rock groups like the Eagles, though I also love classical music.

Do you have critique partners or beta readers?

Yes. I’m in a writer’s “read and critique” group, the same one for 4-1/2 years. We meet once a week. Each of us gets to read every other week. We all critique.

What book are you reading now?

Dipping into one of the Classics right now. Just started re-reading To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee. Am also reading A Thousand Splendid Suns, by Khalid Hosseini.

How did you start your writing career?

When I was twenty I started keeping a journal. After my Dad passed away, I read his private memoir and was inspired to write my own. After 50 pages I realized that my bicycle odyssey was the story of a lifetime and that’s what I needed to write about.

Tell us about your next release.

I am a twin. This is our story, a twin’s life. My sister and I shared the same thoughts, finished sentences together and even shared a twin language. We attended school together, until our parents separated us. Even with different paths, we remained close.

Jackie had a successful career, met the love of her life and retired extra early. She was living the dream, until something happened that changed our lives.

About the Author

David Reed has spent a lifetime studying the natural world, from his youth in the woods, his University training, his apprenticeship as a stonemason, and his travels on a bicycle, to his career as an award-winning landscape architect.

A career highlight includes re-designing four major gardens in San Diego’s jewel, Balboa Park.

A visual storyteller, David has guest lectured at the San Diego Museum of Art, Rutgers University, Kansas State University, The New School of Architecture, and other venues. His professional work has been published in Sunset Magazine, Garden Design Magazine, and Building Stone Magazine.

Uphill and Into the Wind is David’s debut memoir. But his work has been published in A Year in Ink, the San Diego Writers, Ink Anthology and awarded at the Southern California Writers Conference.

David believes that life is “out there,” in the forest, and on the land, not inside the box.

He currently resides in San Diego with his wife and family.

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Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Virtual Book Tour: The Butterfly Blueprint by Stephanie Miller #blogtour #interview #nonfiction #christian #rabtbooktours @butterflygrowth @RABTBookTours

How to Renew Your Mind and Grow Your Faith

Christian, Spiritual growth, Christian mentorship

Date Published: Sept 22, 2020

Publisher: Lucid Books Publishing

Have you ever found yourself doing the same thing over and over again without realizing it? Are you spiritually stuck, wanting a deeper relationship with God but not sure how to get there?

In The Butterfly Blueprint, Stephanie Miller uses each stage of a butterfly-egg, caterpillar, cocoon, and butterfly-to show you five ways to grow your faith. By examining how your past shapes your perspective and understanding of the value of authenticity and accountability in relationships, you will learn how to identify and address your spiritual blind spots that are hindering your growth.

Stephanie opens up her own journey of transformation while providing practical steps you can implement to see real progress in your spiritual life.

● Your purpose will become clearer.

● Your relationships will grow deeper.

● You will create a new perspective to share your story with others.

You were not created to remain a caterpillar your entire life. Let God change your perspective so He can transform you into the beautiful butterfly He made you to be.

Interview

What was your main drive to write this book?

My relationship with God was the main drive to write this book. In everything I do want follow His plan for my life so writing this book was for Him and because of Him.

What do you hope readers will learn by reading this book?

I hope they learn what it means to truly be a new creation in Christ. I hope they understand that there is more to spiritual growth and transformation than reading the bible more or going to church. Our transformation into who God has called us to be starts with surrender. Most importantly I want them to be able to live transformed as a beautiful butterfly in Christ!

Did you do much research when planning this book?

I did some research. I included much scripture throughout the book, so I had to look up and research bible verses and themes that exemplified the main message of each chapter. However, scripture in my book wasn’t an afterthought, it was my first thought.

Did you have any main people who helped you in the process of this book or influenced you to write it?

I had a few people who encouraged me to write it and others who helped me with the book. I had an editor friend look over the first draft of the book and tell me that it didn’t feel complete. From her initial comments and critique, I added what is now the main the focus of the book, The Butterfly Blueprint.

How long did this book take you to write from initial thought to hitting publish?

I wrote the first draft of this book in a little over a month, put it on hold after I had a baby and then picked it up earlier this year. So from the conception to the birth of this book, it was about one and a half years.

Do you have plans to write more about this topic or new topics?

Yes. The topic of spiritual growth and transformation is a huge passion of mine. For this book I had a difficult time determining what the title would be, but God has already revealed to me the title of my next book, which will be, “Holy Soles: Walking in the Way of Jesus.” It will be a faith-filled, scripture-packed bible study to encourage others in their relationship with Jesus!

About the Author

Stephanie Miller, M.A., is a certified personal growth coach, writer, and speaker. Currently living in Colorado, she is the wife of a busy Army dentist, and mom to a strong-willed toddler and sweet baby boy. Together they enjoy going on hiking adventures. Her ministry, Butterfly Beginnings, specializes in helping those who are spiritually stuck by catalyzing change through connection with the Holy Spirit. She seeks to encourage women and challenge them to grow closer to God and in community with each other. Her past published works include I Am Enough in Christ, a workbook and devotional. Connect with her at www.butterflybeginnings.net.

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Monday, October 26, 2020

Release Blitz: Eris Rising by Courtney Ramm #promo #memoir #releaseday #giveaway #nonfiction #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours @PublishingAcorn

Memoir

Date Published: September 1

Publisher: Acorn Publishing

Warrior’s aren't born, they are forged from the harsh experiences that shape them as they strive to defend what is sacred and true. And geniuses aren’t born either—or are they? Courtney Ramm would know, as she’s one of 229 offspring born from the controversial “Genius Sperm Bank”, a genetic experiment that existed in the 1980s and ‘90s. With a predisposition for “genius”, Courtney found herself driven toward success. Following her passion for dance, by the age of eight she was studying at the renowned School of American Ballet and soon thereafter, performing on New York’s greatest stages. At twenty-five years old, she acted upon a strong inner calling to start her own dance company—in Hawaii.

Moving across the globe from the concrete jungle of Manhattan to the tropical jungle in Hawaii, Courtney brought along her endless to-do lists and a strong determination to succeed. But one thing was missing from the picture-perfect life she had imagined: a perfect husband.

When she first locked eyes with Marcus at a spiritual gathering, she sensed something was off in the uncanny intensity of his stare. But she dove into a relationship anyway, not grasping the graveness and outright danger of the decision.

Eris Rising is a story of breaking deep karmic patterns, grappling with the calling of destiny, and changing long-held karma into mission. With the powerful feminine warrior spirit of Eris as inspiration, this memoir shows how it’s possible to move forward after life-altering “mistakes”, and recover the true “genius” within.

About the Author

Born and raised in the heart of New York City, Courtney Ramm has followed her passion for dance since childhood, which led to a career as a professional dancer, choreographer, and teacher. She’s directed dance schools, performed, and taught all over the world, from Singapore to Thailand to Manhattan.

With her Master’s degree in Dance Education, Courtney has led wellness retreats in Hawaii, focusing on empowerment and transformation. Courtney is the founder and artistic director of RammDance, a non-profit dedicated to keeping the legacy of modern dance pioneer Isadora Duncan alive. She blends her love of dance with holistic healing, and is a certified Pilates instructor, Yoga teacher, Ayurvedic consultant, Theta healer, Master Detox Chef, and Reiki practitioner.

Alongside her focused training and career in dance, writing has always been one of Courtney’s passions. She knew she would write a book—although she never imagined her memoir would take such a twisted turn.

Courtney is a full-time single mama to two toddlers. Eris Rising is her first book.

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Friday, October 23, 2020

Virtual Book Tour: Marybeth, Hollister and Jane by Vera Jane Cook #blogtour #giveaway #womensfiction #cozymystery #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours @verajanecook

Woman’s Fiction, Cozy Mystery

Date Published: 9/28/20

Some secrets draw people closer.........after they tear them apart.

Marybeth and Hollister moved to rural New York to escape—both the city life and a checkered past. Their lives were unassuming, until they bought a grandfather clock. They just wanted something to fill the space under their stairs, but they got much more than they bargained for. What secrets could the clock possibly hold?

Jane was sent to Callicoon to find the Eagle diamond, which was stolen from the Museum of Natural History in the ‘60s and never recovered. Convinced she won’t find what she’s looking for, she grudgingly takes the assignment. When she arrives, things aren’t what they seem and Jane finds more than she ever expected.

About the Author

I am an award-winning hybrid author of southern and women's Fiction, including Dancing Backward in Paradise, The Story of Sassy Sweetwater, Where the Wildflowers Grow, Pleasant Day, Marybeth, Hollister & Jane and Lies a River Deep. As my alter ego, Olivia Hardy Ray my books include Annabel Horton, Lost Witch of Salem, Annabel Horton and the Black Witch of Pau, and Pharaoh’s Star. The first novel I ever wrote, Dancing Backward In Paradise, won an Eric Hoffer Award for publishing excellence and an Indie Excellence Award for notable new fiction, 2007. The Story of Sassy Sweetwater and Dancing Backward in Paradise received 5 Star ForeWord Clarion Reviews and The Story of Sassy Sweetwater has been named a finalist for the ForeWord Book of the Year Awards. I have published in ESL Magazine, Christopher Street Magazine and I have also written early childhood curriculum for Weekly Reader and McGraw Hill.

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Thursday, October 22, 2020

Virtual Book Tour: The Haunting on Palm Court by Stephanie Edwards #blogtour #interview #giveaway #romanticsuspense #rabtbooktours @rabtbooktours @steph_a_edwards

Book #1 in the Isle of Palms Suspense series

Romantic Suspense

Date Published: Sept. 1, 2020

After Blake Nelson catches her abusive fiancé, Parker, with another woman, she seeks serenity at her late grandmother’s beach cottage. He follows Blake to the island and attempts to kill her, but instead, he dies in an accident while fleeing the police. His malevolent spirit returns to the cottage to finish what he started. The haunting intensifies when Blake reconnects with her first love, Clint. Will Blake discover how to banish Parker before it’s too late?

Interview

What is the hardest part of writing your books?

Writing the middle is always the most difficult because you want the timing to be just right.

What songs are most played on your Ipod?

Murky Moon Sky by Burn the Treaty, a Nashville-based duo—I used this song for my book trailer, so I listen to it anytime I need help finding inspiration.

Do you have critique partners or beta readers?

Yes. I’m fortunate to have worked in journalism and public relations for years, and I have some great friends who will give me the absolute truth about what works or doesn’t. I’ve also made some new friends who are authors and have been willing to give feedback.

What book are you reading now?

Dreams of Falling by Karen White

How did you start your writing career?

When I was 13, I started writing a column for my hometown newspaper. I fell in love with writing, and since then, I’ve worked as a writer in some capacity. The Haunting on Palm Court is my first novel. I’d always wanted to write a book, but I didn’t find the inspiration I needed until my husband and I traveled to Isle of Palms, South Carolina. Our vacation rental had the creepiest backyard, filled with Spanish moss-covered oaks. It was breathtaking and spooky. I knew I’d finally found the inspiration for my story.

Tell us about your next release.

I’m working on the second book in the Isle of Palms Suspense series, Return to Palm Court. It’s from the point of view of Brittany, Blake’s sister. She goes to help Blake with the family bed and breakfast and her troubled niece. As more frightening events begin taking place, Brittany realizes the ghosts of their past may not have been laid to rest after all.

About the Author

Stephanie Edwards has been writing professionally since she landed her first newspaper column at the age of 13. Her love for the Lowcountry, the Atlantic Ocean and a good ghost story inspired her to write her first book. She lives in Tennessee with her husband, Ron, and their adorable dog, Shadow.

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Twitter: @steph_a_edwards

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Virtual Book Tour: Better Sleep, Happier Life by Dr. Venkata Buddharaju #blogtour #sleepdisorders #nonfiction #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours @bublishme @drbuddharaju

Simple Natural Methods to Refresh Your Mind, Body, and Spirit

Sleep Disorders

Depression (Books)

Happiness Self-Help

Date Published: April 7, 2020

Publisher: Bublish, Incorporated

"[An] incredible self-help book. Highly recommended!" Susan Keefe, The Columbia Review of Books and Film

“Dr. Buddharaju dissects the most complex sleep science into simple practical strategies that can be put to use by anyone!” — Murali Ankem, MD, MBA, Associate Dean School of Medicine at University of Louisville

Did you know that sleep is a key component for a happy life? Research shows us it is. But with all of today’s technology and stresses, many people are getting less sleep or experiencing poorer quality sleep. This can negatively impact mood, concentration, productivity, physical health and, yes, even happiness.

As a practicing physician for more than twenty years, Dr. Venkata Buddharaju (known as Dr. Buddha to his patients) has extensive experience treating patients with sleep problems. And the number of patients he is seeing with sleep disorders is on the rise.

In Better Sleep, Happier Life, Dr. Buddharaju teaches seven simple, practical, and natural methods to help you get better sleep in order to refresh your mind and body. Filled with wisdom from his years of experience as well as simple lifestyle changes, Better Sleep, Happier Life can help you find rest and refreshment in the midst of your busy life…and reap the benefits.

About the Author

Dr. Venkata Buddharaju (or Dr. Buddha, as his patients call him) is a fellowship-trained physician at the Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine from the American Board of Internal Medicine.

He now teaches and consults at hospital intensive care units and pulmonary units as well as sleep medical practices. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and teaches medical students from UIC, Chicago Medical School and Internal Medicine resident trainees at Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago.

He directs the Sleep Disorders Center and Clinic at Thorek Memorial Hospital in Chicago and serves as a Section Chief of Pulmonary & Critical Care at AMITA Health Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center Chicago where he teaches Internal Medicine and Family Practice Residents while working in ICU as an Intensivist. Additionally, he is president of the medical staff at Kindred Chicago Lakeshore and Central hospitals. Dr. Buddharaju has numerous medical-device patents and is working to develop more patient friendly medical devices. Throughout his career, he has conducted clinical research, published his work in various medical journals, and worked to develop and implement high quality patient-care policies. He believes strongly that balancing natural healing practices with traditional medicine is important for the future of effective health care.

For additional resources, visit www.drbuddha.com.

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