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First full week of school and we are settling in to a routine. It was an uneventful week with a dentist appointment. My reading has slowed, but I am enjoying what I am reading and hope it picks up as we settle in. I watched season one of The Sinner. It’s a police procedural on NetFlix. Stay Caffeinated.
Last Week on the Blog
Twelve Year Blogoversary (event)
The Drowning Woman By Robyn Harding (audio review)
Resonance Surge By Nalini Singh (guest post/book review)
Only Good Enemies By Jennifer Estep (audio review)
The Murderer’s Son By Joy Ellis (audio review)
This Week on the Blog
The Invisible Hour By Alice Hoffman
Knockout By Sarah MacLean
Beneath Dark Waters By Karen Rose
Shadow Of Death By Heather Graham
Once Broken Faith By Seanan McGuire
New Arrivals at the Caffeinated Cafe
Learn more:
Door to Door by T.L. Brown
The Conquered World: Complete Saga: Science Fiction Adventure Romance by Elyn Wyn (98 hours)
Holly by Stephen King
A special thanks to T.L. Brown & Piers Ryman, Simon Audio
Around The Blogosphere
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The Stories We Cannot Tell follows two pregnant women who are forced to make difficult choices in life and the bond they form as they navigate this point in their life. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Getting pregnant and staying pregnant is such an emotional journey for a lot of women. I wrote this book so hopefully, women going through infertility or making a choice not to continue a pregnancy will feel less shame than society has made them feel. I didn’t have an easy time getting pregnant, and I had many friends going through hell to have a child and not a lot of these women shared their stories. I wrote this book before Roe Vs. Wade was overturned, something I never thought was a possibility in our country. I’m hoping the readers, no matter what their views on this topic are, realize that what’s right for them, may not be right for everyone, and having compassion and empathy is all most women in these situations want.
Was the character’s backstory something you always had, or did it develop as you were writing?
I had written a lot of the backstory for each of the women before I started writing the book. I wanted to get to know their quirks and personalities ahead of time, so I could incorporate them into who they are and the individual journey that they were going through. That being said, there were things that came out in the dialogue or in their stories as the writing of the book went on.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes that were important for me to explore were friendship, loss, love, family, and hope. I also wanted to explore how a woman views her pregnancy issues differently than a male partner, and when something happens to the baby, how his pain is just as genuine, but he may express it in a different way.
What is the next book you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m just beginning my next book so I’m not sure yet when it will be out. It’s the story of three sisters who go on a journey together to figure out what happened to their mother and end up finding things about their past they never knew.
Rachel is a thirty-year-old married Jewish woman who has wanted a baby for a long time. Katie’s a thirty-two-year-old single, Catholic woman who has been trying to find a man who will stick around. We follow the women individually as they find themselves pregnant–Rachel happily, Katie, not. As they enter their second trimester, they’re shocked to hear that there’s something very wrong with the babies they are carrying. Rachel and Katie meet in a support group and bond as they help each other through not only an excruciating decision but through the issues that come with making that decision. The Stories We Cannot Tell explores friendship, loss, love, hope, and family.
Life Lessons of Lucy Lu: Lucy Lu Gets Adopted follows a young puppy who is abandoned at an animal shelter and learns how to be a good dog and get adopted. What was the inspiration for your story?
After moving to the US from Canada, I was naive to how severe the pet overpopulation was until a friend opened up that world to me. I also did not realize that black dogs and cats are adopted the least. When my Eddy passed away, somehow, and it was quite a strange turn of events, I ended up getting an email about a dog needing a home but since she was a terrier mix, I had reservations. I had no experience with that breed. I said I would visit her but made no promises. She was being walked down the hallway to be euthanized when they got the call that I was interested. I was hooked from the minute I saw her. She had previously been abused with a broken leg that did not heal correctly. It would be her nemesis. As I drove up, she was in the yard, that little leg stretched out behind her. Heart tug. I took her home and decided to educate myself on the terrier breeds which I soon learned are very misunderstood. Lucy Lu became the love of my life, and I vowed then to help animals – particularly shelter dogs, black dogs, and terriers or terrier mixes. I grew up with animals but never had I met a dog with such a personality as Lucy Lu. She was divinely intelligent. I now volunteer at the local animal shelter where I have personally seen things I don’t ever want to repeat, volunteer with Georgia SPOT Society who help spay/neuter, and I volunteer with another animal coalition group against dog fighting, abuse, and neglect which is on a much higher level.
I saw a need to educate children because they are the next generation that needs to learn to love animals and not hurt them; to protect them and not use them for a human’s entertainment or income stream. Children can relate to animals, so if a child is suffering they can understand how the animal is feeling. I saw that not enough emphasis was being placed on change and that creating no-kill shelters only puts a bandaid on the big issue. On the life lesson side, children need to learn that the sky is wide open to them. Moreso than ever, you can be whatever you want to be. You can have dreams and achieve them, too. I grew up with just the essentials. There was no money for luxuries, yet here I am today writing books. Lucy Lu was such an inspiration to me in so many areas of my life, the biggest in finding my soul’s purpose. I now understand what I was sent here to do.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
It was important to me to drive home the problems we face in this country with shelter animals. We use animals for entertainment, we use them for punching bags, we use them for sources of income and this is not right. As stewards of this earth, it is our responsibility to protect those that cannot protect themselves, and animals are one such group that needs us all. Generational patterns can form if a child is not subjected to other ways of thinking or acting so this book was meant to help the child’s development as much as an animal. Children need to know they have opportunities, to never give up on their dreams, and to stay positive with hope. I’m hoping they can apply as much to their own life as they can to the animals. I wanted a book that would blend both human and animal issues together. I wanted it to educate children not only for themselves but for animals as well. I wanted a book that would spark something in a child’s parent to hopefully do more and maybe even effect change there.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Leo Brown?
After searching for an illustrator for what seemed like an eternity, I found Leo Brown through a Facebook group. I was not sure how we would fit together but after a few conversations, I realized that he was the one. He lives in England, so although we do things slightly differently, for the most part, it was smooth sailing. I do wish I had pushed for a few things differently, but since this was my first time working with an illustrator, I pretty much let him take the wheel and drive. I already had the idea for the cover–I wanted Lucy’s sweet face to stand out with a star around it because she was a superstar, and I think he nailed it!
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
I am hoping to have book 2 available in the first half of 2024. All books in her series will teach a life lesson that we can all learn from. I have six stories written so far, but I think the one I will use for my next book will talk about how sometimes we can hurt someone’s feelings and we don’t even realize it. It is the adage of do unto others as you would like done unto you. It will encourage us to act in a loving way and from a loving heart. This happens when Lucy Lu is in the backyard and meets up with some butterflies! You will be introduced to some new characters that she becomes friends with who will carry forward into the rest of the stories. Of course, there may be some sad moments in the beginning, but it will end on a high note with a happy ending.
“Mama, wait! You forgot me! Please don’t go, Mama! Please don’t leave me here!” Lucy Lu cried out. “Why are you leaving me?”
OH, NO! Even though Lucy Lu was an adorable, happy puppy who loved to be with people, her Mama abandoned her at an animal shelter! After a cold and scary night outside at the shelter, Lucy Lu was welcomed in by the nice lady that worked there, and she met a new dog friend that taught her how to be a good dog and get adopted. But Lucy Lu was still very afraid that she would have to live in a kennel forever… and she wouldn’t find a family to love and play with!
And then one beautiful day, finally, a happy, kind woman named Gracie visited Lucy Lu at the shelter…
Life Lessons of Lucy Lu is a beautifully illustrated dog book for kids and a great gift for any dog lover. Even reluctant readers will want to find out who rescues the cute talking dogs from the animal shelter! This empowering book for children also teaches kindergarten and elementary school-aged children to be caring, take care of abandoned animals, and make a difference in the lives of people and animals!
“Oh, Lucy Lu,” Gracie said. “You are perfect. You are the one. I would love to adopt you and be your new Mama. Would you like that?”
In our darkest moments, we all yearn for someone who can stand by our side, offering solace and companionship. Within the pages of The Mole VII, the author skillfully reveals his vulnerable core, delving into the depths of his emotions while chronicling the enigmatic presence of a lover who remains elusive despite his unwavering devotion. With fervent declarations of everlasting love and an ardent desire to be united, the author poignantly recounts the cherished moments they have shared, painting a vivid portrait of the profound depth of his affection.
Life’s unpredictable nature often presents us with various challenges, demanding our unwavering resolve to confront and navigate the ensuing chaos. Through his eloquent prose, the author weaves a tale of a man driven to desperate lengths to pursue success, only to lose himself amidst the allure of worldly riches. In his quest, he beseeches his beloved for support, yearning for their united front against the adversities that lie ahead. However, lurking within this narrative is the nefarious character of Willem, renowned for his mischief and malevolent intentions—an embodiment of villainy within the story’s fabric.
Once again, Ron Raye skillfully portrays the lamentable aspects of human existence: the atrocities perpetrated by men, the pervasive corruption plaguing leaders, unrequited love, and the unrelenting cruelties of death. Raye’s emotional vulnerability endears him to readers, as his evocative writing style masterfully captures their hearts. Despite its brevity, The Mole VII captivates, drawing readers into its intricately woven tapestry.
For those already acquainted with the previous works in The Mole series, The Mole VII undoubtedly deserves a prominent place on your reading list. As a continuation of the interconnected narrative, this book ensures an immersive and cohesive reading experience. I highly recommend obtaining a copy of Ron Raye’s The Mole VII to fully indulge in the author’s creative vision. Any admirer of contemporary poetry will undoubtedly find this literary gem a worthwhile addition to their collection.
The Tales of Scuba Steve: Isfjell Point, penned by Steven Kamlet, offers a thrilling exploration of the underwater world, inviting young readers into an adventure that is as fascinating as it is informative. This engaging narrative follows Scuba Steve, a professional diver, who leads a group of spirited youngsters at a unique swimming camp. Together, they embark on an extraordinary journey that goes beyond mere swimming lessons and into lessons about life and our environment.
Upon diving into the water, the group encounters ever-changing conditions, and when they resurface, they are transported to an icy Arctic landscape. Taking refuge in a cabin, they become aware of their location and the pressing environmental concerns of pollution and plastic waste. This discovery leads them to direct their efforts toward environmental conservation in a sincere and inspiring way. Their adventure continues with breathtaking experiences such as animal encounters from the region and the awe-inspiring spectacle of the aurora borealis.
Kamlet crafts the story with wit, humor, and a creative flair that keeps the reader guessing with every twist and turn. The characters are lively and endearing, filled with playful banter and clever exchanges that add charm and amusement to the tale. What truly sets this book apart, though, is its integration of educational content, such as detailed explanations of natural phenomena like glacial calving. The information is presented in an accessible manner, complemented by a section featuring photographs and facts to further enhance learning.
The presentation of the book is equally captivating, with expressive illustrations that burst with personality and unique designs. These artistic elements lend a fresh and original style to the book, making it visually delightful.
As a professional scuba diver, Kamlet’s passion for nature, the sea, and the environment shines through the pages, providing a genuine and heartfelt touch. While the book successfully conveys messages of environmental awareness in a positive and engaging way, I think some readers may find certain sentences in the explanations a bit complex. This minor detail, however, does not diminish the overall enjoyment and educational value of the book.
The Tales of Scuba Steve: Isfjell Point stands as a delightful and fun-filled tale that not only entertains but educates children on vital environmental subjects. The mixture of adventure, humor, and thoughtful insights makes it a must-read for young audiences, encouraging them to explore the world around them and take an active role in preserving it.
On a future Earth where humanity’s gravest climate change anxieties have become a horrific reality, The Wanderer’s Quest, by Veronique Racine, unfolds. Disease is rampant, resources are scarce, and the world is dominated by oligarchs who greedily amass more than their due. Amidst this dystopian landscape, our protagonists, Raydr, a hardened ex-prisoner, and Madan, a world-weary traveler mourning the tragic loss of his family, cross paths. Driven by revenge and an aspiration for a brighter future for the oppressed, their journey tests the limits of their resilience in a world where hope and redemption seem all but unreachable.
Racine’s science fiction novel, though reminiscent of the grim narratives of Cormac McCarthy’s The Road and William Gibson’s dystopian works, carries a unique imprint. The envisioned world of The Jackpot, as created by Gibson, where political disorder, pervasive anarchy, and climate change catastrophes concurrently culminate in a dystopian nightmare, echo throughout Racine’s narrative. Racine’s prose rivals Gibson’s in both its impact on readers and its arresting delivery.
Racine’s ability to articulate a compelling narrative is undeniable. The character development of Raydr and Madan, both vivid and relatable, is the lifeblood of this narrative. Their shared suffering and pain stir the readers’ emotions as they find themselves yearning for the pair’s triumph against seemingly insurmountable odds.
The Wanderer’s Quest, by Veronique Racine, ultimately delivers a striking commentary on the human spirit and its capacity to withstand forces vastly greater and more destructive than itself. Our protagonists, Raydr and Madan, in their refusal to surrender to the oppressive weight of their daunting reality, offer a potent reminder of our own resilience. Their story, in this respect, serves as an inspiration, proving that even in the bleakest of landscapes, hope and tenacity can thrive.
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