2023 - A Life Through Books

Friday, December 29, 2023

Virtual Book Tour: My Life in Stitches by Darla A. Calvet #blogtour #interview #memoir #nonfiction #giveaway #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours @PublishingAcorn
10:12 AM0 Comments

A Heart Transplant Survivor Story


Memoir

Date Published: December 12, 2023

Publisher: Acorn Publishing


 

Darla Calvet is a thirty-nine-year-old working mom whose life turns upside down when she is diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Suddenly, fear threatens her dreams for the future as doctors’ appointments replace her daily routines and she realizes she may not live to see her daughters grow up. After dying twice while waiting for a new heart, Darla begins to understand her own resiliency—her heart may be weak, but her mind refuses to give up.

My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story is a candid, witty account of one woman's determination to transform a devastating prognosis into an inspiring fight for survival. Darla’s story offers insight into the complex world of medicine with a dose of humor about her challenges and victories as a heart transplant patient. In this sensitive, thorough, and informative debut, Calvet brings compassion and gentle wisdom to a difficult subject in hopes of demystifying the uncertainties that inevitably accompany long-term, life-threatening medical decisions.




Interview

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?

After I survived my heart transplant surgery, I immediately wanted to help others on this path. I attended a Writer’s Conference in Los Angeles and learned about the different publishing options. I liked the Acorn Publishing approach, so I went with them.  They have been great and I’m happy with the results.

What surprised you most about getting your book published?

I think I was most surprised that the general population would be interested in my heart transplant journey.  I thought the book would have a niche market with other patients, but it appears that everyone seems to be interested in it.

Tell us a little about what you do when you aren’t writing

I do work as a grant writer for nonprofits and own a boutique consulting business. It is a nice balance with my writing career. I also hang out with my French Bulldog Quinnie and my husband Pat.

 

As a published author, what would you say was the most pivotal point of your writing life?

First, publishing my dissertation for my PhD.

Second, getting accepted as an author with Acorn Publishing LLC.

 

Where do you get your best ideas and why do you think that is?

Usually when I wake up in the morning. I must give great coffee the honors for getting my brain going.

 

 

What is the toughest criticism given to you as an author?

When I first started writing, I joined a writer’s group with some cranky old men who wrote westerns. They did not understand my message or purpose in writing my transplant memoir.  They seemed bored and uninterested in the book, which hurt me greatly. I kept going anyway!

 

 

What has been your best accomplishment as a writer?

Getting a five star review with my debut book, My Life in Stitches.

 

 

How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?

None at present but I am about to begin my next book soon.  It’s addicting!

 

 


About the Author

A heart transplant survivor, Dr. Darla Calvet won a gold medal for ballroom dance in the 2022 Transplant Games of America. Currently, she serves as the vice president of the board of directors for the Southern California Transplant Games of America team. She is also the CEO of Blue Tiger, Inc., a strategic planning consultancy. A doctor of education, Calvet holds degrees from Claremont Graduate University, San Diego State University, and the University of California, Berkeley. She lives in San Diego, California, with her husband Pat and their French bulldog Quinn, and she is the proud mom of two adult daughters, Claire and Annie.

 

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Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Virtual Book Tour: Please, Thank you, and Excuse Me by Ashley Chadwick #blogtour #childrensbook #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
4:00 AM0 Comments

 



the lost art of mannerisms

 

Children's Book

Date Published: April 5, 2023

Publisher: Mindstir Media

Cori Elba (Illustrator)


 

When your children are learning to speak, it can come out and grunts, screams, or yells.


This can make it hard to understand them. To help them through this tough time, start by getting on their level. Look them in the eyes and reassure them that it is okay to get frustrated. Then ask them to use their words with please, thank you, and excuse me. These three basic phrases set a foundation for the language you will share between you and your child. Just remember… Repeat, repeat, repeat. Stay with their consistent repetition. You might grow tired of it, but to your two-year-old, it’s the routine they need to develop.

Politeness is spoken worldwide and in every language, whether in public or private. The simplicity of kindness teaches that everyone matters in this world. These three children's books (“Please, Thank You and Excuse Me,” “Listen, Share, and Be Nice,” and “Animal Etiquette for Kids”) are lighthearted and geared for all ages. Mannerisms must start somewhere, so why not parents, grandparents, teachers, friends, and caregivers show our children mutual respect for all people, places, and things?


This series of children's books is a fun way to re-introduce manners into your children's lives. It's cool to be polite and kind to everyone.

 


About the Author

Ashley has been a professional nanny for over fifteen years and the owner of a nanny service. She incorporates nature with mild education and mannerisms in children's lives. When Ashley is not a nanny, she is a world traveler, nature enthusiast, and loves mountain biking, yoga, and spending time with her nephew, Walker.

 

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Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Book Blitz: Love Songs of the Zombie by Ronald Stephens #promo #nonfiction #rabtbooktours @SongsOfZombie @RABTBookTours
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Nonfiction

 

Is there a God? Can religion be compatible with science? Do miracles happen? Why do bad terrible things happen to good people? You are on a lifetime journey seeking answers to these questions.

You want to base your beliefs on science, reason, and logic, while still affirming purpose and meaning for human existence. You seek to value religious traditions and scriptures but want to avoid accepting obsolete dogmas and superstitions.

The author, a scientist and business leader, shares insights carefully collected and collated during his 70-year quest, and provides surprising, illuminating, and stimulating ideas to help point you in the right direction.

Is it still possible to experience and participate in spirituality like the ancients did? Yes, and it can be done with poetic flair and joy.

 


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Virtual Book Tour: What's the Difference by Thomas J. Baechle #blogtour #nonfiction #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
4:00 AM0 Comments


A Curious Collection of Information about the English Language

 

Nonfiction

Date Published: June 11, 2023

Publisher: Mindstir Media

David Helton (Illustrator)



In What's the Difference, the distinctions between similar words are explored. Words such as cemeteries and graveyards, cougars and pumas, oceans and seas are explained, as well as seltzer water and club soda, milk and buttermilk, buffalo and bison.

Words that we frequently use interchangeably often have subtle differences, and sometimes have significantly different meanings. This book provides a fun look into the array of words in the English language that have similar meanings.

 


About the Author

Thomas Baechle grew up and until recently lived in Cleveland, Ohio, spending time near Lake Erie and hiking, bicycling, and picnicking  in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. 

He enjoys traveling and road trips and has visited most of the national parks in the US and each of the  50 states.

“Each park and each state is unique in its beauty grandeur.”

Thomas has pursued various  adventures and has backpacked across Isle Royale National Park several times with his son and grandson, skydived with his children, and run with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain. 

He recently relocated to the south shore of Massachusetts, where he enjoys time with family near Plymouth and Duxbury Bays. 

Before his retirement, Tom enjoyed a legal career.

 

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Monday, December 18, 2023

Teaser Tuesday: Blades (Devil's Fury MC, Book 14) by Harley Wylde #promo #comingsoon #teasertuesday #excerpt #motorcycleromance #agegap #rabtbooktours @changelingpress @RABTBookTours
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(Devil’s Fury MC)


Motorcycle Club Romance, Age Gap, Suspense

Date Published: Dec 29 2023

 

 

China -- I came to the US to further my education. I never counted on falling for a gruff biker who was so much older than me. But Blades never hesitated when I told him I was pregnant. He was the best man I’d ever met… until he went to prison. All our lives unraveled after that. My daughter was taken from me, and I was sold. I thought I’d never escape the hell of being exploited and abused, until he walked through the doors again, looking like a wrathful angel. He may have saved me, but do I really deserve his love?

Blades -- Being falsely accused of murder was bad enough. Finding out someone stole my woman and daughter was another. Our precious little Meiling found herself a good man, and she’s safe. Now I need to save her mother. My China. I’m going to gut everyone who dared to touch her and send them all straight to hell… then I’ll do whatever it takes to prove to her she’s safe with me, and that I’ve never stopped loving her. China and Meiling are my entire world, and I’m going to protect them -- this time.

 

WARNING: Guaranteed happily ever after, no cliffhanger, no cheating. Recommended for readers 18+ due to adult situations, language, and violence.

 

 


EXCERPT


Copyright ©2023 Harley Wylde

 

I eyed the man in front of me. It had been a long ass time since I’d seen the Devil’s Fury cut. “So, one of you finally came to see me. No one’s ever brought a pretty woman with them, though.”

The name Dingo wasn’t one I was familiar with. Then again, he looked young. Probably started prospecting after I’d been locked up. He put his hand on the woman’s shoulder and gave it a squeeze.

“You’re Robert Young?” she asked.

“Don’t go by that name anymore. I’m Blades. Who’s looking for Young?”

She took a breath and seemed to be steeling herself. I should have been the one preparing. Her next words would have knocked me on my ass if I’d been standing.

“I’m Meiling Shan Young. Your daughter, if my birth certificate is correct.”

I fell back against the metal chair. My daughter? “Fucking hell.”

“So you do know who I am?” she asked.

“Yeah. Told your mother not to bring you here. Why did she let you come now?” In all this time, China had stayed away just as I’d demanded. Had something happened to bring my daughter here after all these years?

“She didn’t. I don’t even remember her,” Meiling said.

My gaze shot to Dingo. Who the hell was he? Why had he brought her here? “Are you responsible for her being here? How she’d get mixed up with the club? I told Xi-wang to keep away from the Devil’s Fury.”

“We don’t know yet what happened to Xi-wang. Shortly after you were locked up, your daughter went into foster care and her mother vanished without a trace,” Dingo said. “As to why she’s with me… she’s my wife.”

I shot to my feet. “Like fuck she is!”

After everything I’d been through to keep them safe, this had to happen? I didn’t know how she’d met this bastard, but I’d see to it he was buried six feet under. How dare he touch my precious child?

“Sit down, old man,” Dingo said. “She’s been accepted by the club as my ol’ lady, and we’re legally married. Besides, she could be carrying your grandchild.”

I felt my blood pressure rising and wanted nothing more than to wring his neck. Slowly, I took my seat. Going after him right now wouldn’t do me any good. If my daughter liked him, then it would only hurt my relationship with her -- assuming I ever had the chance to have one.

“Why the fuck are you here?” I asked, focusing on Dingo.

“We need some answers. Mei doesn’t remember her mother, and never knew about you. In fact, her birth certificate was buried and a false one put in its place. You tried to keep her a secret, but it’s time to talk.”

I didn’t like it, but they weren’t the only ones who needed answers. They said my daughter couldn’t remember her mother. Where the hell was China? If I found out someone had hurt her, I was going to slaughter everyone responsible. “Fine. I’ll tell you what I know, then you explain what’s really going on.”

I told them how I met Meiling’s mother, about us falling in love, and me keeping the two of them a secret from the club. Everything up until I went to prison. After that, I lost track of China. I’d thought she was only listening to me and keeping away as I’d told her to do. I should have found a way to check up on her.

Meiling slumped in her seat. “So you don’t know what happened to her, or how I ended up in foster care?”

“Nope. I never even heard she was missing. No one ever came to ask me about you, but you were mine legally. If someone finds out what happened, I sure the fuck want to know,” I said.

“Outlaw is working on it,” Dingo said. “He’s a hacker for the club. Only thing we know for sure is the foster family who had Meiling…” Dingo stopped mid-sentence.

I wanted to ask what the hell a hacker was, but more importantly, what was it he didn’t want to tell me? If it had to do with my daughter, then I deserved to know. He might be married to her, but she was my baby first and foremost.

Meiling met my gaze. I knew whatever they were hiding would gut me. “He doesn’t want to tell you.”

“Did they hurt you?” I asked.

“They made her into a whore by the age of fourteen,” Dingo said. Even I could hear the pain in his voice.

I slammed my fists into the table, and everything went red. I roared out my rage, standing so fast the chair fell over. I ripped the chain free of the table and continued to pound the metal surface, denting it. Guards rushed in, and I knew they were going to put me in solitary if I didn’t calm down, but I couldn’t. I wanted to make them all suffer. Every last person who’d harmed my baby needed to die, and I wanted to be the one to do it.

Dingo held up a hand, cautioning them to stay back. “Give him a minute. We gave him bad news.”

Bad news? I nearly laughed. That was putting it mildly. Finding out my favorite motorcycle had turned to rust would be bad news. Discovering my China had moved on and found someone else would be bad news. Hearing someone turned my daughter into a prostitute while she was still a kid made me want to set the entire world ablaze.

“No. Fuck that shit.” I looked from my daughter to Dingo. “I didn’t fucking kill those people. You find out who did, get me out of here, and I’ll handle the men who hurt my daughter.”

“I didn’t hear that,” one of the guards muttered. “Did. Not. Fucking. Hear. It.” He walked out, dragging the other one with him. At least they had some sense.

“Are you trying to say you’re innocent?” Meiling asked.

I gave a bark of laughter. Innocent? Me? Not hardly. “No, daughter. I’m far from innocent, but I didn’t commit the murders I was accused of. If Outlaw can find out what happened with your situation, then maybe he can help with mine. When I got locked up, there wasn’t anyone capable of digging up that kind of dirt, not within the club, and certainly no one who gave a shit about me. You get me out of here, and I’ll make sure they all fucking pay.”

“On one condition,” Dingo said.

He had some nerve adding a stipulation. Was he trying to keep me away from my daughter?

“What’s that, boy?” I asked.

“You give your blessing for me and Mei to be together.” He cleared his throat. “I love her, and I will love and protect any children we have together. If we’re ever blessed with any.”

“You’re an idiot,” Mei told him, but I saw the affection in her gaze. “But I love you too.”

The way he smiled at the words told me enough. The bastard was head over heels for my little girl, and since they were already married, I might as well learn to live with it.

“Fine. You have my blessing, as long as you make her happy. Fuck up, and I’ll Goddamn bury you where they’ll never find your body,” I said.

The look he gave me assured me we were on the same page. I hoped like fuck the club was a better place than it had been when I got locked up. If it wasn’t, I’d need to find a way to get Meiling away from there. It didn’t matter if she was married to this little shit or not. I’d do whatever it took to keep her safe. I’d failed her until now. Never again.

“I know I’m a stranger to you, girl, but I’m your dad. I get out of here, and I’ll make things right for you. I don’t expect you to call me anything other than Blades, until I’ve earned the right to be called anything else.”

“We’ll have to agree to disagree,” Meiling said. “Daddy.”

I felt my throat grow tight and my eyes stung. I flashed her a smile, hoping she knew how much it meant for me to hear her call me Daddy. I’d missed out on everything. Her first steps. First words. And because I hadn’t been there to keep them safe, someone had tried to destroy my family. Once I was free of this place, I’d seek retribution. I only hoped it didn’t take them too long.

My daughter came closer and put her arms around me. I knew we weren’t supposed to touch but fuck all of them. I hugged her tight, wanting to remember this moment forever.

“Love you, Meiling. Always have,” I said, my voice a littler gruffer than usual. “Even if I can’t get out of here, remember that. You were wanted, and you were loved. Never doubt it for a moment.”

“Thank you, Daddy.”

* * *

I hadn’t realized they would have me freed within twenty-four hours. I’d spent eighteen years in prison for something I didn’t do. All this time, I’d thought my woman was safe. Off living her life, providing for our child. How could I have been so wrong? I knew about the evil in the world. Faced it every fucking day, even before I’d gotten locked up. It never once crossed my mind that darkness would touch my two girls, especially since I’d made sure to keep them away from the club.

It had taken a month to handle all the people who’d hurt my daughter and to find my precious China. She’d been dumped in a brothel not too far over the state line. From what the hackers had found, it looked like she was still there. If she wasn’t, I’d beat the hell out of everyone until I got some answers. One way or another, I was bringing her home.

Pulling into the parking lot of the Silk Purse, my heart hammered in my chest. It would be my first time seeing her in so damn long. Did she even remember me? Had they completely broken her?

I got off the bike and headed inside. The moment I saw her my fucking heart broke. My beautiful girl was just as stunning now as she’d been before, even with the scars clearly visible on her face and arms, and a few silver threads in her hair. She gave me a slight bow as I drew closer, but her eyes never met mine.

“Welcome to the Silk Purse. What will be your pleasure tonight?” she asked, her voice still holding the accent I’d so loved all those years ago.

“My pleasure?” I asked. She still didn’t look up. “I came to take my woman home. Our daughter needs her.”

She went still, completely frozen. Slowly, she lifted her head and her gaze locked with mine. The Xi-wang I’d known was there, but just barely. I could see her, but I could also see the road of pain she’d traveled while we’d been apart.

“Xi-wang.”

“Robert?” she asked softly. “You went to prison for murder.”

“Didn’t do it.” I reached for her, tugging her against me. “But I did kill a few people since then. They all deserved it.”

I stroked her cheek and wished I could turn back the clock. She’d had my heart the moment we locked eyes that first time.

 

 

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

 

Preorder Today



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Virtual Book Tour: They Call Me The Refund Man by Nathaniel R. McDaniel #blogtour #nonfiction #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
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How You Can Start a Successful Tax Business


Nonfiction, Small Business, Taxes

Date Published: September 12, 2023

 

 

Dive into the High-Stakes World of Tax Returns with Nathaniel McDaniel's Inspiring Journey


There are few certainties in life, but the inevitability of death and taxes stands unchallenged. Given this universal truth, the tax return industry emerges as a lucrative goldmine of opportunities, waiting to be seized by those ready to embrace its potential.

"They Call Me the Refund Man: How To Start A Successful Tax Business" chronicles Nathaniel McDaniel's transformative journey from long hours in the car industry to achieving financial liberation and a harmonious work-life balance through tax preparation.

After witnessing his personal life stagnate amidst the grind of car sales, Nathaniel took the bold step of charting a new course. Now, during the tax season alone, he rakes in more than he once did from nearly 80 exhaustive hours a week selling cars!

Nathaniel doesn't just share his story; he paves a clear path for you to navigate the complexities of the tax business. Discover actionable insights on:


    The art of effective market research.

    Gaining the right tax credentials.

    Assembling and nurturing a high-performing team.

    Crafting a magnetic marketing strategy.

    Forging enduring client bonds.

    Navigating legal intricacies.

And much more...


While the realm of tax preparation can appear labyrinthine and overwhelming, with the right guidance and determination, it transforms into a world of unmatched opportunity. "They Call Me the Refund Man" serves as both an enlightening memoir and an invaluable guidebook, making it an indispensable read for aspiring tax professionals and business enthusiasts alike.


Take the leap into the prosperous domain of tax returns. Unearth the secrets of this booming industry and redefine your future.


Grab your copy now and set forth on a journey towards unparalleled success!


 

About the Author

 Nathaniel R. McDaniel studied accounting and business at Eastern Oklahoma State College. He has owned Refund Man Taxes in Arlington, TX since 2008 which has been ranked the #1 tax service in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Married with four children and three grandchildren, McDaniels enjoys spending time with his 4-year-old daughter-taking her to her karate and gymnastics lessons. An avid traveler, he has been on 18 cruises and travels to Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Oklahoma Sooner College football games with his eldest son and brother.


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Book Blitz: A Pug's Tale: The Pawfect Match by Adam Palladino, EdD #promo #childrensbook #rabtbooktours @DrP775883386312 @RABTBookTours
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Children’s Book

Date Published: December 2023



In the heartwarming tale, "A Pug's Tale: The Pawfect Match," meet Roy, an 8-year-old boy with a fervent desire for a loyal companion. His dream of having a pug named Chug becomes an enduring journey filled with anticipation. Through the moments of hopeful waiting and the ticking of time, Roy's wish is granted, and the enchanting story unfolds as he discovers the joy of finally having his pawfect match, a furry friend who becomes his inseparable companion and confidant. Join Roy on this touching adventure that celebrates the magic of friendship and the fulfillment of dreams.


 

About the Author

Dr. Adam Palladino is a second-time author who wanted to publish a book that would bring humor to his students. As a K-12 educator and administrator, he showed his passion for learning and laughing by creating a pun-filled book. He currently resides in New York with his wife, LisaMarie. When he is not writing, you can find him studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, watching movies, walking around Barnes and Noble or being adventurous with his wife.

Dr. Palladino's first book, Terror in GuacamoleVille was a huge success, and the popularity of it continues to grow. If you have not received your copy yet, please pick yours up now!

Dr. Palladino's second book, A Pug's Tale: The Pawfect Match is a wonderfully adorable book for children from infancy to 8 years old. It has not yet been released, but when it does, please get your copy soon! Dr. Palladino will be traveling around the nation to promote both books, conduct read aloud, meet fans, and sign copies of his books. Please do not hesitate, get your copies today!


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Friday, December 15, 2023

Book Blitz: The Modern Teen's Etiquette Playbook by Alla Kesser Gross #promo #youngadult #nonfiction #rabtbooktours @RABTBookTours
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Confidence, Communication, and Online Presence for the 21st Century


Young Adult

Date Published: December 3, 2023

 

 

 

 

Are you a parent searching for a one-of-a-kind social skills guide that helps your teen thrive in both offline and online worlds? Look no further!

 

This groundbreaking book on etiquette for teens is specifically designed for today's digital age, covering not only traditional etiquette but also the essential art of netiquette.

Discover how mastering etiquette and netiquette can boost your teen's self-confidence in unfamiliar social settings and bring numerous benefits, such as impressing future bosses, avoiding conflicts, and steering clear of unintentional faux pas.


This unique book covers essential topics such as:

  • Self-care and personal presentation: hygiene, nutrition, exercise, and deportment.
  • Posture and body language: tips and exercises to improve stance, walking, and non-verbal communication.
  • Navigating various social situations: car etiquette, building entry and exit, stairway safety, and dining decorum.
  • Dressing for success: understanding body types, choosing the right colors, and sending the right message with clothing.
  • Mastering introductions: making a great first impression and handling awkward moments with poise.
  • Conversation starters: breaking the ice, using humor, and engaging in meaningful discussions.
  • Dining etiquette: what to expect from waiters, how to eat different types of food, and managing formal and casual meals.
  • Netiquette: navigating social media, texting, and other digital interactions responsibly, maintaining a positive online presence, and understanding online privacy.
  • Dating manners: cultivating a respectful and attractive presence in both offline and online dating scenarios.
  • Planning for the future: preparing for job interviews, internships, and professional opportunities in an increasingly digital world.

 

Give your teen the tools they need to flourish in today's interconnected world by teaching them the art of etiquette and netiquette. This book will help them build a strong foundation for personal and professional success, ensuring they stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression both offline and online.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to transform your teen's life – grab your copy today and invest in their bright future!


About the Author

 At the tender age of three, Alla had already begun a tutelage in social mores and manners at an educational daycare in the Ukraine run by etiquette professionals where she learned the importance of making eye contact, polite greetings, and the basics of dining and table manners. She continued formal etiquette training throughout her childhood and teen years, making several pit stops at esteemed manners and boarding schools throughout Europe, receiving a merit/honors diploma as an etiquette teacher at a prestigious British school where she graduated as an etiquette coach, then mastered the skills of flag etiquette, international relations, high-level delegation visits and conferences in Haag. Alla completed her formal global training on the finer points of American decorum and the cultural differences from continental protocols in New York City. To Alla, founder of the Lluxxall School of Etiquette and Manners in San Diego, geared for children and teens, enriching students on the basics of decorum from the dining room, classroom, and dorm room to the computer room and eventually boardroom is a natural and organic passion and her life’s mission. Coupled with an online advice column for teens, numerous magazine articles, live talks, podcasts, and now this compelling and comprehensive handbook, Alla will be repairing the world by molding a future generation of refined, self-confident, and well-mannered students well-equipped to achieve happiness and success both personally and professionally. Alla has earned two Master's Degrees, one in Education and another in Music and Literature.


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Virtual Book Tour: Journey to Bethlehem by Joseph Guy #blogtour #interview #giveaway #religion #spirituality #nonfiction
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Religion & Spirituality

Date Published: 11-25-2022

Publisher: OACC Media


 

Come with me to Bethlehem. A sleepy hamlet in the mountains of Southern Israel. Here we will find a newborn baby lying in a manger surrounded by his parents and barn animals.

It doesn’t seem like the most idyllic Christmas. There is no tree, no presents, and no stockings hung by the fireplace. Everything is ordinary. Jesus lying in a mound of hay is the furthest thing from extraordinary. Yet, the Savior of the world begins his first moments here in this barn, in this village.

During this journey, you will discover the true meaning of the season. It’s not the glow of lights or the smell of pine needles. We celebrate Christmas because of Jesus Christ, God’s gift to us.


 


INTERVIEW

 

What is your schedule like when you’re writing a book?

I try to write a little every day. A good rule I try to follow is one page or one chapter a day. I break this rule often, but it is a baseline I have set for myself. This baseline keeps me on track.


Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?

I have contemplated it, but I feel it would cause too much distraction instead of being beneficial. When you enter the field of writing, you want to create a following. The following can be difficult to create when you are writing under a pseudonym, although it is not impossible.


 Have you ever gotten reader’s block?

Often. There are times when I don’t have words for a particular character. I envision the overarching theme, but how to get there is bumpy. I am a big picture type of person, so I struggle with the small pieces that create the big picture.


Does your family support your career as a writer?

Yes. I have a terrific family that has been nothing but supportive of my writing. I have to press them to be critical of my writing. I always want to improve so I seek input from them.


How many hours a day do you write?

It is not the number of hours a day I write since I am a part-time writer. I try to write 30 minutes a week, sometimes more. I feel 30 minutes a week keeps your skills in good working order.


If you could invite any three people for dinner, whom would you invite?

Jesus Christ, Liam Neeson, and John Grisham.


Would you share something about yourself that your readers don’t know (yet)?

I’m contemplating a Christian television show in 2024. It would be a major shift from writing, but I believe change is good.

 

Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?

I want to be original because I believe readers appreciate the authenticity of writing from the heart. Readers can get what they want from Hollywood. They desire original content from writers.

 

How do you celebrate when you finish your book?

I don’t typically celebrate because I am already thinking about my next project. I like to be focused on what is next, so my readers always have something new to look forward to.

 

If you could be mentored by a famous author, who would it be?

I would like to be mentored by John Grisham. He has a way with words that I would desire to emulate. 



About the Author

Joseph Guy serves as the President of Joseph Guy International Ministries, an organization dedicated to reaching people around the world through digital ministry. He is the host of the podcast Biblical Insight With Pastor Joseph, and winner of the 2022 Readers’ Favorite 5-Star Review Award. It is his goal to change the world one life at a time through the timeless message of the Gospel. The great outdoors is where you can find him when he's not building God's kingdom.

 

Contact Link

Website

 

Purchase Link

Amazon


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