Horror/Thriller
Date Published: 10-23-2021
Publisher: Didactic Cafe Press
Can you survive the night when a murderous competition arrives in a small East Texas town with one road in and no way out?
About the Author
Chad Lehrmann is the author of numerous novels and also finds time to teach AP History to high school students. The product of a small town in Texas, he knows all too well the secrets that live in those supposedly idyllic villages.
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Historical Fantasy
Date Published: October 1, 2023
"I would advise you, young man, to take care around anyone with the surname Firefax. I know not if the rumors be true that they be king killers, but they are, without any doubt, a dangerous family."
Legend tells of a city of gold on a phantom island. The wealth of that city could end the American Revolution. But the only person who knows the island’s location is the world’s deadliest assassin. And he’s not giving up that secret without a fight . . .
1781. New England.
The world’s oldest family of high-profile assassins, the Firefaxes, have been killing off dignitaries—and being well-compensated to do so—for centuries. The family is thrown into turmoil by their patriarch’s death and the return of their cunning, cruel prodigal, Murdoch. Murdoch is the only one left who knows where the Firefax wealth is, kept on a secret island. But Murdoch’s former protégé, now turned nemesis, Istäni, who is the leader of a British intelligence network, and Murdoch’s former colleagues from a Continental intelligence network are looking for that wealth. These spy networks are bent on tracking down the legendary treasure, whatever the cost, but may have met their match in this wily, dysfunctional family of killers.
About the Author
A.M. Vergara is a physician assistant and paramedic. When not writing, reading, or working in the hospital or on the ambulance, she can be found outside, hiking, camping, riding her mule, foraging for edible mushrooms, field-herping, or playing her banjo.
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Historical Mystery
Date Published: 10-23-2023
Publisher: Level Best Books' Historia Imprint
"In a seamless blending of historical fact and narrative skill, Richard Helms reimagines the sensational case of Daniel M'Naghten, whose 1843 murder trial set a precedent that reverberates to this day. Helms has crafted a thoroughly gripping historical mystery that will leave readers eager to hear more of the “notorious thief-taker” Vicar Brekonridge.
—Daniel Stashower, Edgar Award Winning Author of American Demon
About the Author
A lifelong North Carolinian, Richard Helms retired from active practice as a forensic psychologist in 2005, after working in the field for over two decades. At one time, he was the only court psychologist covering four counties in NC. A court-recognized expert in sex crimes and the psychology of sex offenders, mystery writing was an easy transition and a logical next step after Helms left his professional career to become a college professor in Charlotte. He retired from teaching in the summer of 2016 to become a full time writer. Helms has twenty-two novels in print.
Besides writing, Helms loves gourmet cooking, woodworking, traveling, simracing, amateur astronomy, playing with his grandsons, and rooting for the Carolina Tarheels and Carolina Panthers. For a peek at his non-writing life, check out his other website at www.rickhelms.com
The parents of two grown children, Richard Helms and his wife Elaine live in Charlotte, NC.
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Children’s Book, Middle Grade
Date Published: September 30, 2023
Come along with Sitou on a magical journey of emotional discovery!
Are you ready for a magical trip through a beautiful autumn forest, where you'll learn lessons on joy, sadness, anger and fear and meet some wonderful friends? We're excited to tell you about "Sitou’s Journey into the World of Emotions," a captivating children's book that takes kids over seven and older on a trip of emotional discovery that changes them.
The Journey Starts with the main character Sitou, a young and sensitive girl. Sitou makes friends with a scared, talking hedgehog. As they go on a journey together, Sitou learns that even the smallest animals have their own emotions and feelings. Sitou wants to learn more about fear, sadness, joy and anger and she does. Sitou learns to recognize and understand her own feelings and those of others as she meets different animals. The book shows in a beautiful way how important understanding and emotional intelligence are, giving young readers the tools they need to deal with their own feelings with confidence and kindness.
Interesting is that the story isn't the end of the trip! The second part of the book is a workbook "Discover for Yourself the Essence of Joy, Sadness, Anger, and Fear". The workbook has a set of interactive tasks that encourage readers to use the lessons Sitou learned on her trip in their own lives. The assignments help kids understand and deal with their feelings, which is important for their mental health.
The author really wants to make a difference in the mental and emotional health of young readers. If this book can make a child smile or help someone who is having a hard time with their feelings and emotion, it will make the author very happy and proud. Parents, guardians, teachers, and therapists are encouraged to talk to their kids, students and clients about what's in the book. This can lead to fun and important conversations.
Why read: "Sitou’s Journey into the World of Emotions"?
· A heartwarming and interesting story for kids 7-12 years of age.
· Shows youngsters how important emotional intelligence and kindness can be.
· Interactive tasks reinforce what you've learned and help you grow as a person.
· A helpful resource for parents, guardians, teachers, and therapists who want to help children's mental health and intelligence.
· Beautiful illustrations made by an award-winning illustrator
Get a copy right away! Don't miss the chance to join Sitou and her friend the hedgehog on this touching trip. You can now buy the book "Sitou’s Journey into the World of Emotions, at https://www.amazon.com/Sitous-Journey-into-World-Emotions-ebook/dp/B0CGJTSZLT. Let your child's heart be touched by the magic of emotions as they discover the beauty of the autumn forest and the depth of their own feelings.
About the Author
Linda Luchtman is a debut author from the Netherlands. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which was a hard time for many people emotionally and mentally, the story of Sitou was born, but the author put it aside to write "The Bum Biter," a sweet little book for toddlers that was only released in her private circle in the Netherlands but will be available on Amazon later this year.
It wasn't until her daughter, Lara, struggled with anxiety in 2023 that the author revisited the story of Sitou. She knew it was the perfect way to help her daughter, and it did just that. Now, Linda is on a mission to share the story to help kids and adolescents with their emotional well-being. Next to this, she has made several assignments to go along with Sitou's story to help readers connect Sitou's journey to their lives. This makes it a more interactive and meaningful experience.
Linda is not only an expert in writing. She is also an expert in instructional design and using neuroscience to create effective classrooms. She has a Master's degree in this field and has helped many teachers and trainers in universities, vocational training, and businesses. She is a certified coach and is currently seeing her first coaching clients.
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A Kids' Court Whodunit #6
Middle-Grade / Mystery
Date Published: 09-29-2023
A missing ladder. A relentless bully. Can the junior lawyer uncover the truth before chaos erupts?
Luana Porcello has discovered a new love: volunteering at the community dog pound. Still, as much as she enjoys working with animals, law remains her true passion. So, when the local bully accuses his neighbor of theft, she happily resumes her attorney role, confident of her client’s innocence.
But as Luana gets to work, a formidable wall of evidence stands against her client, from physical proof linking him to the alleged crime scene to an eyewitness who insists he saw the accused commit the deed. Undeterred by the odds stacked against her, Luana is relentless in her quest to vindicate her client. Will her determination be enough to tip the scales of justice in their favor?
About the Author
Caron Pescatore was born in the United Kingdom. She spent most of her childhood in Jamaica before migrating to the United States. After practicing as a registered nurse for many years, Caron decided to enter law school, obtaining her J.D. in 2001. She worked as an attorney for several years before leaving the profession to become a stay-at-home mom—her most challenging career to date. She recently resumed working as an attorney at Legal Aid, representing people from marginalized communities. Ms. Pescatore is passionate about justice and fairness for all, a sentiment that led, in part, to her decision to write the Kids’ Court Whodunit series. Her favorite pastimes are reading, writing, and watching true-crime shows. She also recently discovered a love of painting using stencils. At present, Ms. Pescatore lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
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A Rhyming Backyard Adventure
Children's Book
Date Published: September 2023
Meet Twiggy! He loves to explore with his family finding treasures to store before winter. Fall is ending, and Twiggy finds a soft and fuzzy treasure to keep him warm during colder days. Unknown to him, it belongs to a girl searching for her favorite lost sock. Find out what happens when Twiggy and the girl come face to face. How will they cope with their complex emotions about the situation and each other?
About the Author
Renée DeVincent was born on an Army Base in Savannah GA. Her passion for reading and creativity developed at a young age. Growing up in a military family and moving frequently, books and art became a source of comfort and escape. Later in life, she embarked on her writing career, grant and technical writing, shortly after receiving her M.Ed. in Counseling. At the same time, she continued to develop her passion for fictional short stories, literature, and art, leading her to get an AAS degree in Graphic Design.
Reading books to her daughters inspired her to write and illustrate her first Children's Book, Twiggy and the Lost Socks. Renée believes reading and storytelling are powerful ways to connect with others and foster a love of learning. Using a lighthearted rhyming style, inspired by nature, Renée uses her colorful illustrations and writing to encourage self-awareness, responsibility, positive relationships, and a solid character.
Currently, Renée resides in the heart of Kansas with her two children and supportive husband of 30 years. When not writing or creating art, Renée loves to spend time with her garden, nature, the outdoors, and her many fur babies. Hazel the Doberman and Milo the Ragdoll cat, provide many hours of writing inspiration.
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Children's Book
Date Published: May 1, 2023
Publisher: Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.
My Favorite Season is Spring is a beautifully illustrated picture book which every child will love. Through rhythm and rhyme, take a fun and exciting journey with little Susie as she describes her favorite season. She finds so many fun things to do and she loves the outdoors, and you will too! Great engaging teaching tool for children.
About the Author
Patrice D. Wilkerson is an MBA graduate who loves writing poetry. She has been writing poetry since she was eight years old and loves to inspire others through words. She's written a collection of poetry entitled, Through It All, I'm Going to Make It, which she published in 2010.
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Memoir / Self-help / Spirituality / Relationships
Publication date: September 28, 2023
Publisher: Palmetto Publishing
Hello, goddess!
As a wife, mother, career woman, and active member of your community, you may have so many responsibilities that you lose sight of who you actually are. You have what society claims is the "perfect life." So why do you feel empty rather than exhilarated?
In Goddess Mode, Meli Rowland shows you how to break free of the mold tradition would put you in. She clears the way for you to seek your higher self and explains why it's essential-and never too late-to embrace your inner goddess. Follow the model Meli uses to find clarity.
Unearth the secret to maintaining a healthy balance. Experience how positive thinking and intentional action play critically important roles in every goddess's life, including yours. Discover invaluable tips, lessons, and exercises for overcoming any setback, adversity, or fear while living a life of true meaning for yourself. Awaken your inner power to self-trust, self-respect, self-love and self-heal.
About the Author
Meli Rowland is an entrepreneur, mother, social media influencer, and the creator and mentor of the Goddess Mode lifestyle. Following a disadvantaged childhood and years in foster care, Meli took her life into her own hands and defied all odds to become a self-made millionaire. Now, she educates women on how to discover their inner goddesses and define the lives they want for themselves through financial independence-and how to manifest in thirty seconds.
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Contemporary Steamy Romance / Romantic Comedy
Date Published: September 28, 2023
When local politics heat up, desires ignite as a conservative councilwoman and her liberal adversary find themselves entangled in a web of desire that blurs the lines between power and passion.
In the heart of Austin, Texas, a fiery clash of ideologies takes center stage on the city council dais. Mia Sinclair, the council's lone conservative, finds herself spiraling into turmoil as her marriage crumbles before her eyes. A daring move to save her relationship backfires spectacularly, leaving her vulnerable and exposed. On the opposing side, Gio Barra, the charismatic progressive council member, seizes the opportunity to publicly condemn her. Little does he know, beneath the surface, a fire of attraction smolders.
As their political feud escalates, so does their unexpected desire for one another. Their passion ignites in the most unlikely places, from intense debates to secret encounters in hidden corners. Mia's world crumbles further when she discovers her husband's betrayal, while Gio grapples with uncharted desires that his longtime girlfriend fails to ignite.
In the midst of personal chaos, Mia's and Gio's paths converge, revealing their raw vulnerabilities. They find solace and a strange connection amidst their heated debates, leading to a tentative truce and shared understanding. But as they navigate newfound tenderness, old insecurities threaten to tear them apart.
Dive into the sizzling pages of 10-1 and experience a world where passions run as high as political tensions. Get your copy today and join two sworn enemies as they discover that the heat of their rivalry masks an even more scorching connection—one that threatens to unravel their carefully constructed lives!
***The book is high heat, explicit sex and involves self-esteem struggles that depict self-harm.
About the Author
K. Sato has been obsessed with love stories her whole life. Like taped HEA’s of soap opera, TV and movie couples - she would watch over and over - completely obsessed. Fast forward decades later to when she picked up her first contemporary romance novel and realized she could craft her own stories AND make them as dirty as she wanted! That’s her HEA! When she’s not playing with her couples like naked Ken and Barbie, she’s reading some of her fave authors or hanging with her husband or working at Costco. ‘Cuz she might as well get paid for being there so much.
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Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis
Memoir
Date Published: September 7, 2023
Publisher: Acorn Publishing
Jennifer Gasner is seventeen when her dreams are shattered overnight. Receiving a diagnosis of Friedreich’s Ataxia, a rare genetic neuromuscular disease, means she must prepare herself for a life of loss. When she starts college, she can still walk on her own, but as her disease progresses, she spirals further into sadness, denial, and alienation. She turns to alcohol and a toxic relationship to distract her from what she refuses to accept—that her body, her self-esteem, and her hope for her future are failing.
When Jennifer develops a friendship with rock star Dave Matthews, her outlook changes. She begins to understand that using a wheelchair doesn’t mean her life is over. In fact, when she discovers disability culture, she realizes it’s not her body that needs to be fixed but her assumptions about being disabled.
In her captivating memoir, My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis, Jennifer invites you into her world, where she must learn to view her changing body with compassion and choose gratitude over anger as she finds strength and acceptance in a whole new way of moving through life.
Can you tell us a little about the process of getting this
book published? How did you come up with the idea and how did you start?
I have always had a desire to write a book about my life. I
had just stopped working and decided to try taking a class. After that, my
focus changed to a little and I didn’t write for a number of years until I took
a year-long certificate program in memoir writing.
What surprised you most about getting your book published?
How writing it made me really sick of myself and it there’s
so much more to do after.
Tell us a little about what you do when you aren’t writing
When I’m not writing, I’m usually walking my dog or going to
the movies or catching up on British TV. I haven’t traveled since the pandemic,
but I’m hoping to start again in a few months.
As a published author, what would you say was the most
pivotal point of your writing life?
I think it’s when I returned to writing after my little
hiatus, and my teachers had told me I had improved so much.
Where do you get your best ideas and why do you think that
is?
Music. Any time I hear is song especially from my past, it
brings up a lot of memories.
What is the toughest criticism given to you as an author?
That it doesn’t make sense or I’m not conveying what I want.
What has been your best accomplishment as a writer?
Finishing my memoir and publishing it, even though it’s
probably going to be difficult for some people.
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
Two. But I wrote them a long time ago and I haven’t looked
at them. It would be interesting to see how my writing has evolved.
About the Author
Jennifer Gasner received her BA in English from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and her MS in recreation from Western Illinois University. Her work with Independent Living Centers enabled her to learn about various disability programs throughout the country and ignited her passion for disability culture. She relocated to San Diego, California, on her own at the age of twenty-eight.
As a mentor for What’s Next, a program for youth with disabilities, and as co-chair of UC San Diego’s Staff Association for staff with disabilities, Jennifer solidified her role in the San Diego disability community. In 2020, Jennifer became an ambassador for the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), raising awareness about Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA). She participated in Rare Across America, meeting with legislators to discuss laws affecting more than 25 million Americans living with one or more rare diseases.
Jennifer is a member of the San Diego Memoir Writers Association, and her writing has been published in Shaking the Tree, volumes 3 and 4. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, movies, and traveling. She lives with her boyfriend Gregory and their dog. My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis is her first book.
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Suspense Novella
Date Published: September 27, 2023
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Sweethearts Eric Leidheldt and Desiree Chauveau are spending a weekend at his uncle's cabin when they encounter two strangers cutting wood. Eric is knocked unconscious, and Desi is viciously attacked. The following day two police officers come to their apartment to arrest Desi. Her assailants are dead, murdered with an axe, and her fingerprints are on it. She confesses—but is she really guilty? Eric is determined to stand by her, but the physical and emotional effects of the attack severely challenge their relationship.
Excerpt
The pickup was a very old, battered Dodge. Beyond it were two bearded men in plaid flannel shirts. The one with the axe was about forty, broad-shouldered, and dark-haired. The other one was tall, scruffy, a little younger, and had red hair. They both turned toward the approaching couple. The red-haired one stared at Desi in a way Eric didn’t like, but the other man smiled genially and said, “Howdy, folks. Pretty day, ain’t it?”
And then he swung the axe.
About the Author
Linda Griffin knew she wanted to be a “book maker” as soon as she learned to read and wrote her first story, “Judy and the Fairies,” at the age of six. She retired as fiction librarian for the San Diego Public Library to spend more time on her writing. She has had stories of every length from short shorts to novellas published in numerous literary journals, and The Axe is her seventh book from the Wild Rose Press.
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