Giovanni Gelati's Posts - The Book Marketing Network
2024-03-28T23:14:10Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2977877975?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=1ryqttj46sokm&xn_auth=no
J.T. Patten,The Safe Havens Black Ops Series and The Green Beret Foundation.
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-11-05:523145:BlogPost:644070
2014-11-05T13:59:41.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<div><div><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997484140?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997484140?profile=original" width="250"></img></a> J.T. Patten, the Safe Havens black ops series</b></div>
<div> </div>
<div>In the world of black operations, often neither the public nor the participants know what it transpiring as innocents can be targeted and the enemy can be allowed within secured gates of National Security. Author J.T Patten, a former guest of the show, gives us an update about his Safe Havens…</div>
</div>
<div><div><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997484140?profile=original"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997484140?profile=original" width="250"/></a>J.T. Patten, the Safe Havens black ops series</b></div>
<div> </div>
<div>In the world of black operations, often neither the public nor the participants know what it transpiring as innocents can be targeted and the enemy can be allowed within secured gates of National Security. Author J.T Patten, a former guest of the show, gives us an update about his Safe Havens black ops series, which has been described by best selling authors as “Blacker than black”, “Authentic”, and a “new loud voice in thrillers”. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The first of the series, Shadow Masters, has been highly ranked and rated on Amazon and Goodreads. The indie debut novel has sold over 1,100 copies and has sustained ranking in the top Thriller categories for the past eleven months since its release. Its audiobook, narrated by actor, Charles Kahlenberg, will be released in early December.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Patten, a former intelligence specialist and special operations advisor with degrees in Foreign Languages, Intelligence, and Counterterrorism, blends espionage, conspiracy, and military thriller sub-genres in what he describes as the emotional and operational blends of realistic warrior and spy situations. Having worked integrally with U.S. Army Special Forces groups in intelligence training and operational intelligence support, this Veteran’s Day, Patten will be donating book sales to the Green Beret Foundation. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997484328?profile=original"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997484328?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="250"/></a>In a brief conversation with Patten about the Green Beret Foundation, J.T. stated, “Green berets have been perhaps my favorite SOF group to work with. For as much as I have had the opportunity to train and support them, they have mentored me, taught me, and included me with their team family on numerous occasions. Those members and my experiences with them have inspired many of the story scenes that I write. Despite my writings being fictional (and approved by the CIA and DOD for release), I feel that I need to give something back to that community. In Shadow Masters, there is a powerful scene that involves the loss of a special forces warrior and the ripple effects that many readers don’t realize can happen in the real world. It still gives me a lump in the throat to read.” The root of that segment, again, highly fictionalized according to Patten, was actually taken from Patten’s experience as a youth, which inspired him to seek a career with intelligence and special activities.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Learn more about the Green Beret Foundation at <a href="http://www.greenberetfoundation.org" target="_blank">www.greenberetfoundation.org</a> or visit J.T. Patten on Twitter @jtpattenbooks and at <a href="http://www.safe-havens.com" target="_blank">www.safe-havens.com</a>.</div>
</div>
<div>In the world of black operations, often neither the public nor the participants know what it transpiring as innocents can be targeted and the enemy can be allowed within secured gates of National Security. Author J.T Patten, a former guest of the show, gives us an update about his Safe Havens black ops series, which has been described by best selling authors as “Blacker than black”, “Authentic”, and a “new loud voice in thrillers”. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The first of the series, Shadow Masters, has been highly ranked and rated on Amazon and Goodreads. The indie debut novel has sold over 1,100 copies and has sustained ranking in the top Thriller categories for the past eleven months since its release. Its audiobook, narrated by actor, Charles Kahlenberg, will be released in early December.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Patten, a former intelligence specialist and special operations advisor with degrees in Foreign Languages, Intelligence, and Counterterrorism, blends espionage, conspiracy, and military thriller sub-genres in what he describes as the emotional and operational blends of realistic warrior and spy situations. Having worked integrally with U.S. Army Special Forces groups in intelligence training and operational intelligence support, this Veteran’s Day, Patten will be donating book sales to the Green Beret Foundation. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>In a brief conversation with Patten about the Green Beret Foundation, J.T. stated, “Green berets have been perhaps my favorite SOF group to work with. For as much as I have had the opportunity to train and support them, they have mentored me, taught me, and included me with their team family on numerous occasions. Those members and my experiences with them have inspired many of the story scenes that I write. Despite my writings being fictional (and approved by the CIA and DOD for release), I feel that I need to give something back to that community. In Shadow Masters, there is a powerful scene that involves the loss of a special forces warrior and the ripple effects that many readers don’t realize can happen in the real world. It still gives me a lump in the throat to read.” The root of that segment, again, highly fictionalized according to Patten, was actually taken from Patten’s experience as a youth, which inspired him to seek a career with intelligence and special activities.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Learn more about the Green Beret Foundation at <a href="http://www.greenberetfoundation.org" target="_blank">www.greenberetfoundation.org</a> or visit J.T. Patten on Twitter @jtpattenbooks and at <a href="http://www.safe-havens.com" target="_blank">www.safe-havens.com</a>.</div>
Mark Rubinstein, Peter May, Aleshia Robinson & much more this week on The G-ZONE!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-09-02:523145:BlogPost:640114
2014-09-02T17:38:30.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480171?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480171?profile=original" width="300"></img></a> Mark Rubinstein, Peter May, Aleshia Robinson & much more this week on The G-ZONE!</p>
<p><i>We are fortunate to have a very busy month on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show!</i></p>
<p>We have three shows this week, one has already happened-Mark Rubinstein & Peter May were on this morning. Here is the link:…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480171?profile=original"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480171?profile=original" width="300"/></a>Mark Rubinstein, Peter May, Aleshia Robinson & much more this week on The G-ZONE!</p>
<p><i>We are fortunate to have a very busy month on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show!</i></p>
<p>We have three shows this week, one has already happened-Mark Rubinstein & Peter May were on this morning. Here is the link: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/09/02/mark-rubinstein-peter-may">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/09/02/mark-rubinstein-peter-may</a></p>
<p>Weds. Aleshia Robinson returns to The G-ZONE @10AMEST, and to round out the Holiday shortened week we are simulcasting Helping Hands Press “Thirsty Thursday” @8PMEST.</p>
<p>I will have more about each author here on the blog as the week goes on.</p>
<p>Just in case anyone forgets, here is the main link for the blogtalk show, you can click on that or on the sidebar of my blog there is a widget you can click on to the shows as well.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop</a> </p>
Happy Monday Folks! Here is this week's schedule on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-11:523145:BlogPost:637839
2014-08-11T19:52:25.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479841?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479841?profile=original" width="325"></img></a> Happy Monday folks!</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We have a very interesting group of guests on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio this week.</p>
<p>Tuesday <b>Melanie M. Jeschke</b> drops by to discuss her pending release “Expectations”, her trip to Oxford, and much more. Melanie will be on @11AMEST! Here is the link for the show:…</p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479841?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479841?profile=original" width="325"/></a>Happy Monday folks!</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>We have a very interesting group of guests on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio this week.</p>
<p>Tuesday <b>Melanie M. Jeschke</b> drops by to discuss her pending release “Expectations”, her trip to Oxford, and much more. Melanie will be on @11AMEST! Here is the link for the show: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/12/melanie-m-jeschkeexpectationsinklingsintentions-much-more">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/12/melanie-m-jeschkeexpectationsinklingsintentions-much-more</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Weds. is a double header with <i>Lynette Sowell & Julia Roller</i>. The show starts @10.30AMEST.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thursday night @6PMEST <b>RJ Thesman</b> returns!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you wondering<b><i>,”Hey, how can I be a guest of The G-ZONE?”,</i></b> wonder no more. Just email me, message me on Twitter, or any other place you find me. I would love to have you on the show.</p>
<p>Here is the main link for The G-ZONE, you can find any of the shows we have done on the archives as well as any that are scheduled for the future: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop</a> </p>
<p> </p>
Glow In The Dark - Michele Huey
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-09:523145:BlogPost:637461
2014-08-09T15:35:07.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p align="center"><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481744?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481744?profile=original" width="313"></img></a> GLOW IN THE DARK</b></p>
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center">Matthew 5:14-16; Exodus 34:29-35</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><i> When Moses came down from Mount Sinai</i><i>¼</i><i>his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD. – Exodus 34:29…</i></p>
<p align="center"><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481744?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481744?profile=original" width="313"/></a>GLOW IN THE DARK</b></p>
<p align="center"></p>
<p align="center">Matthew 5:14-16; Exodus 34:29-35</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p><i> When Moses came down from Mount Sinai</i><i>¼</i><i>his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD. – Exodus 34:29 (NIV)</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p> I can remember when I first discovered how glow-in-the-dark figures really worked. Until then I’d never really given much thought to how something could radiate light without being a source of light itself. I noticed how they shone brightly at first, then slowly lost their glow. Rather than give off light all by themselves, glow-in-the-dark figures radiate the light they’ve absorbed from a light source such as a light bulb or the sun. The brighter the light source and the closer and longer the exposure, the more light is absorbed and the brighter the glow.</p>
<p> I remember how I’d take a glow-in-the-dark figure and hold it close to a light bulb, then hurry to a darkened room so I could watch it glow. But the glow would eventually fade, and I’d have to return for more light.</p>
<p> Christians, too, are “glow-in-the-dark” figures. We are to radiate the light we absorb from God to a world darkened with selfishness and sin. The closer we get and the longer we stay in His presence, the brighter we will glow.</p>
<p> I wonder how well I am radiating God to those around me. Too often I jump right into the day without taking much time to absorb His light through praying and reading His Word. Then, when I go into the sin-darkened world, His radiance dims much too quickly.</p>
<p> Yes, I can go to church once or twice a week and catch some light, but it’s only when I’m up close to God on a daily basis and I spend adequate time with Him that I absorb – and then radiate – the most Light.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><i> Remind me, O God, that my purpose in life is to radiate Your glory. For You alone are the true Source of Light. Amen.</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="right">By Michele Huey</p>
<p align="center"><b>© 2000 by Michele Huey. All rights reserved.</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Michele Huey is the author of <i>The Heart Remembers,</i> “Gracie’s Gift,” Vol. 1 in her <i>Fifth Wheel</i> series, and <i>Before I Die</i>, as well as two books of devotionals. She writes an award-winning weekly newspaper column, <i>God, Me, and a Cup of Tea</i>. Michele and her husband, Dean, live in western Pennsylvania and have three grown children and five grandchildren. Visit Michele online: <a href="http://www.michelethuey.com">www.michelethuey.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
Michele Huey,author of "Before I Die", "The Heart Remembers", & "Fifth Wheel",is on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show today!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-08:523145:BlogPost:636938
2014-08-08T16:16:05.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b>Today @ 1PMEST Michele Huey will on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show!</b><br></br> <br></br> <i>She will be discussing a number of things including her soon to be released novel "Before I Die".</i><br></br> <br></br> <b><i>The link for the show is</i> :</b><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/08/michele-huey-before-i-diethe-heart-remembersfifth-wheel">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/08/michele-huey-before-i-diethe-heart-remembersfifth-wheel…</a> <br></br></p>
<p><b>Today @ 1PMEST Michele Huey will on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show!</b><br/> <br/> <i>She will be discussing a number of things including her soon to be released novel "Before I Die".</i><br/> <br/> <b><i>The link for the show is</i> :</b><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/08/michele-huey-before-i-diethe-heart-remembersfifth-wheel">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/08/michele-huey-before-i-diethe-heart-remembersfifth-wheel</a> <br/></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAeVj1nk-QQ/U-T1dXZnrDI/AAAAAAAAMeg/FWBi6nyS6SY/s1600/01+Michele+Huey.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAeVj1nk-QQ/U-T1dXZnrDI/AAAAAAAAMeg/FWBi6nyS6SY/s400/01+Michele+Huey.jpg" border="0"/></a></div>
<p><b>Here is more on Michele:</b><br/> A writer with a passion for teaching and speaking, Michele Huey writes an award-winning weekly newspaper column, God, Me, and a Cup of Tea, which placed second in the 2009 Pennsylvania Newspaper Association's Keystone Press Awards. Two compilations of these columns have been published as devotional books. Her work has appeared in numerous anthologies and national publications. Her daily radio program, God, Me, and a Cup of Tea, aired on stations in Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Alabama for 10 years. She writes devotionals on assignment for Pathways to God and is a former newspaper feature writer, photographer, and editor. Her debut novel, The Heart Remembers, has enjoyed 5-star reviews on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Goodreads. Her second novel, Before I Die, and her short story series, Fifth Wheel, are also published by Helping Hands Press. An inspiring speaker, Michele is a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association and serves as pulpit supply for a small, local congregation, which she calls her "little flock." A former teacher with more than 20 years of experience in the classroom, Michele was named to Who's Who Among America's Teachers (2004-2006). In addition to serving as a mentor for the Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild, she coaches writers through The Writing Academy, teaches at writing conferences, and was a member of the team that rewrote two CWG courses. She has a passion for reaching women with the Word of God and serves as the assistant director for the annual Punxsutawney Christian Women's Conference. <br/> <br/> WHERE YOU CAN FIND MICHELE ONLINE: Visit her website at <a href="http://michelethuey.com/">http://michelethuey.com/</a><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481744?profile=original"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481744?profile=original" width="313"/></a></p>
David Clarke,Alan Lester,David Stearman,Anne Baxter Campbell! Why it must be another "Thirsty Thursday" simulcast on The G-ZONE!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-07:523145:BlogPost:636785
2014-08-07T20:08:02.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482253?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482253?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> It is almost time for another “THIRSTY THURSDAY”</b><br></br> <br></br> <i>What is Helping Hands Press “THIRSTY” for:</i><br></br> <b>Your input!</b> <i>Your ideas!</i> <b>Your feedback!</b><br></br> <br></br> The authors at Helping Hands Press will be ready to answer your questions, listen to your thoughts, and to help you have a great experience!<br></br> <b>The Party starts @ 8PM EST, we hope…</b></p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482253?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482253?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>It is almost time for another “THIRSTY THURSDAY”</b><br/> <br/> <i>What is Helping Hands Press “THIRSTY” for:</i><br/> <b>Your input!</b> <i>Your ideas!</i> <b>Your feedback!</b><br/> <br/> The authors at Helping Hands Press will be ready to answer your questions, listen to your thoughts, and to help you have a great experience!<br/> <b>The Party starts @ 8PM EST, we hope that you can make it!</b><br/> <br/> <b>The link for this evenings simulcast is:</b> <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/08/helping-hands-press-thirsty-thursday-party">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/08/08/helping-hands-press-thirsty-thursday-party</a> <br/> <br/> <i>Tonight’s guests are</i> : <b><i>David Clarke, Alan Lester, David Stearman, Anne Baxter Campbell &….who knows who else will call in, maybe you.</i></b><br/> <br/> <i>The call in number is</i> <span id="skype_c2c_container" class="skype_c2c_container notranslate" dir="ltr"><span class="skype_c2c_highlighting_inactive_common" dir="ltr"><span class="skype_c2c_textarea_span" id="non_free_num_ui"><img class="skype_c2c_logo_img" height="0" width="0"/><span class="skype_c2c_text_span">1-949-270-5955</span></span></span></span>!</p>
Nature, Nurture, and a little bit of Maturity by Jen Cudmore
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-07:523145:BlogPost:636767
2014-08-07T13:36:07.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482163?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482163?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="400"></img></a> Nature, Nurture, and a little bit of Maturity by Jen Cudmore</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"<a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/c/charlesrs388332.html" title="view quote">Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.</a>" <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/c/charlesrs388332.html" title="view quote">Charles R.…</a></p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482163?profile=original"><img width="400" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482163?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="400"/></a>Nature, Nurture, and a little bit of Maturity by Jen Cudmore</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>"<a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/c/charlesrs388332.html" title="view quote">Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.</a>" <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/c/charlesrs388332.html" title="view quote">Charles R. Swindoll</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> "Nature vs. Nurture" is an argument that has stumped people for ages. How much of our identity is shaped by the personality we were given at birth, and how much is influenced by the way we were raised? I remember discussing this argument in one of my psychology classes in college. The final answer seems to be that it differs for each person; some are more dominated by nature and others by how they were nurtured.</p>
<p> Our reactions, which we choose, play a big part in quality of life. As proven by statistics, if we are positive and loving in how we respond, we’re more likely to be content and happy. And as we get older and learn from our mistakes (another choice!), we’re less likely to respond in a negative manner.</p>
<p> The nature /nurture topic struck me as I was working on my origin story for the San Francisco Wedding Planner series. These installments are due out this month! As you delve into the backgrounds of Heather, Bryan, Indigo, Gloria, and Skye, you’ll see how nature, nurture, and maturing over time has shaped each character. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Here is the opening to the story I wrote about Bryan and how he ended up in San Francisco.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><i> "Bro! Over here!"</i></p>
<p><i> Bryan Tate swiveled on his heels at the sound of his brother's voice bellowing across the airport terminal. Raul charged toward him, white teeth gleaming nearly as much as the mass of gold necklaces about his neck.</i></p>
<p><i> "I thought you were gonna meet me at the curb," Bryan said.</i></p>
<p><i> "No way!" Raul threw his arms around Bryan and squeezed. "It's been too long, man!"</i></p>
<p><i> The smell of cologne wafted over Bryan and he tried not to gag. Ignoring the raised eyebrows of those nearby, Bryan patted Raul's back and stepped away. While he wasn't much for PDA, he was glad to see his only sibling for the first time in over a year. They had separate mothers and for the most part separate childhoods. Yet despite their differences, they'd kept in contact over the years.</i></p>
<p><i> Raul scanned him up and down. "A flannel? Really?" He gave Bryan a pained expression.</i></p>
<p><i> Bryan glanced down at his blue and green flannel over top a plain navy T-shirt. "What's wrong with it?"</i></p>
<p><i> With a shake of the head, Raul tsked. "We'll have to do some shopping while you are here."</i></p>
<p><i> </i></p>
<p><b><i>Jen Cudmore’s Amazon Author Page</i></b><i>:</i> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jen-Cudmore/e/B00D9EMQ7Y/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1407417971&sr=1-2-ent"><i>http://www.amazon.com/Jen-Cudmore/e/B00D9EMQ7Y/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1407417971&sr=1-2-ent</i></a></p>
<p> </p>
No,I Won't Use an e-Reader by Mark Rubinstein
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-05:523145:BlogPost:636728
2014-08-05T13:41:07.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p align="center"><b> </b></p>
<p align="center"><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480024?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480024?profile=original" width="255"></img></a> No, I Won’t Use an e-Reader</b></p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">Let me begin by saying I <i>love</i> books, whether electronic or paper. I’ll read on my Kindle or a “regular” book. Frankly, I’ll read on whatever’s available. I just love reading and being transported to…</p>
<p align="center"><b> </b></p>
<p align="center"><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480024?profile=original"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480024?profile=original" width="255"/></a>No, I Won’t Use an e-Reader</b></p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">Let me begin by saying I <i>love</i> books, whether electronic or paper. I’ll read on my Kindle or a “regular” book. Frankly, I’ll read on whatever’s available. I just love reading and being transported to another world beyond my own. It’s pleasurable to share the domain the writer has created. It’s a realm to which I bring my own thoughts, feelings, fantasies and experiences, all of which no doubt, color my reading experience. It’s the <i>experience</i> of taking in the writer’s creation that’s so meaningful, not the medium by which it’s delivered.<br/> <br/> I’ve heard many people refuse to <i>consider</i> using an e-reader. There seems to be an impenetrable wall of resistance to even the notion of using a reading device. It’s the usual mantra about loving the “feel” or “smell” of paper, or the pleasure derived from holding a <i>real</i> book in hand; or perhaps it’s the physical act of turning pages; or the heft of the book itself.</p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">I too, love the sensory elements of reading a paper book, but that hasn’t precluded me from using an e-reader. After all, one reading medium doesn’t rule out the other. </p>
<p align="left">Why do some people refuse--absolutely reject--the idea? </p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">It’s not that they’re knuckle-draggers or technophobes because they often have smart phones, iPods, computers and Skype. And, I’ve noticed the repudiation of e-readers isn’t limited to older people. I know plenty of people under forty who, despite being completely comfortable with the technology of our times, want absolutely nothing to do with reading devices. </p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">So, what exactly causes them to spurn this one technology?<br/> <br/> I’ve thought about it as a psychiatrist, writer and avid reader. Maybe it’s because reading is something cultivated over the course of a lifetime, often beginning in childhood. Many book-lovers were read to as children—by a parent, babysitter, or some other adult. It was, for most of us, a very special thing.<br/> <br/> <a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479922?profile=original"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479922?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="250"/></a>“Read me a story” is something most of us can remember asking, if we think back to our earliest formative years. “Being read to” is an experience which becomes embedded in our psyches as a distinct and unique childhood pleasure. It’s loaded with meaning, and is suffused with memories of nestling on Mommy’s or Daddy’s lap; the look of the book with its bright, colorful illustrations; or the feel of the paper while we helped turn the pages. The physical book itself became the symbol housing the powerful emotional satisfaction of having parental attention bestowed upon us, with all its attendant meanings.</p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">The book encapsulated a deep sense of pleasure, safety, wonder, satisfaction, and above all, love. These early experiences, and their residue, linger with us, and can have enormous emotional resonance.</p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">On a pre-conscious level, perhaps some of us refuse to even <i>try</i> an e-reader because our minds view it as a renunciation of one of life’s earliest pleasures.</p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p align="left">It’s merely my theory, but when I reflect upon how readily other technologies are embraced, none of them carry the primal significance of a “book in the hand.” </p>
<p align="left"><br/> Mark Rubinstein,<br/> Author, “Mad Dog House”</p>
<p align="left"> </p>
<p> </p>
Three Lessons Learned From Adopting Older Children from Foster Care By Sue Badeau
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-04:523145:BlogPost:636406
2014-08-04T17:39:45.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482138?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482138?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"></img></a> Three Lessons Learned From Adopting Older Children from Foster Care</b></p>
<p><b>By Sue Badeau</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>1. <b>Everyone can heal and grow.</b> Healing and growth may look different for each individual and we may never see the wholeness we are hoping for, but we can continue to work towards it. I learned this lesson at an early age from my grandfather as…</p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482138?profile=original"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482138?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"/></a>Three Lessons Learned From Adopting Older Children from Foster Care</b></p>
<p><b>By Sue Badeau</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>1. <b>Everyone can heal and grow.</b> Healing and growth may look different for each individual and we may never see the wholeness we are hoping for, but we can continue to work towards it. I learned this lesson at an early age from my grandfather as he showed me how he cared differently for the various plants in his vegetable garden so that each would have the best chance of growing and bearing fruit. I have come to understand that this analogy also applies to children and teens – they are not all easy to grow – like zucchini – but then, what a boring garden it would be if we grew nothing but zucchini!</p>
<p>2. <b>There is as much value in the journey as in the destination</b>. I know, I know, it sounds like a worn cliché, but we have found it to be true. Years ago, we went on a family hike and this message came home to me in a powerful way as I saw my son who had been diagnosed with <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001734/">cerebral palsy</a> and predicted that he would never walk, clambering along the hiking trail with his brothers and sisters. Years later as we experienced everything from teen pregnancy to a son in prison, I have had to remind myself again and again of this important lesson.</p>
<ol>
<li>3. <b> God makes all things new</b>. While God does not “fix” everything in the sense of removing all obstacles, curing all diseases or unlocking all disabling conditions, He does, indeed, make all things new. I learned this after experiencing a car wreck – I still have some scars and there are things I cannot do, yet I was changed by the experience and “made new” in important ways. And as I think about some of my children viewed as most “damaged” by the world – whether physically or emotionally “damaged” by all kinds of brutal early life experiences – turning to drugs, early pregnancies or other outlets for their pain– I know that some people look at them and only see the wreck – but I like to look at them and see them as survivors. And I am always amazed how – in spite of the “damage” they have sustained they – through God’s grace and healing power – are able to find amazing new ways to do old things that many of us take for granted – communication, relationships, eating, moving, getting through the day.</li>
</ol>
Internet Treasure Hunt by Susan J. Reinhardt
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-08-04:523145:BlogPost:636626
2014-08-04T13:21:39.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><u><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997483570?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997483570?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Internet Treasure Hunt</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I was a kid, I enjoyed Nancy Drew. Many stories involved treasure maps or disciphering clues. The Internet is like a giant treasure hunt. Here are some of the things I've discovered in my travels:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. <a href="http://zoemmccarthy.com/leading/5-tips-building-relationships-success">Zoe…</a></p>
<p><b><u><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997483570?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997483570?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Internet Treasure Hunt</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I was a kid, I enjoyed Nancy Drew. Many stories involved treasure maps or disciphering clues. The Internet is like a giant treasure hunt. Here are some of the things I've discovered in my travels:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. <a href="http://zoemmccarthy.com/leading/5-tips-building-relationships-success">Zoe McCarthy</a> gives 5 tips on building relationships. She stresses a genuine caring to see others succeed.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>2. <a href="http://thewriteconversation.blogspot.com/2014/07/your-scenes-not-working-maybe-lighting.html">K. M. Weiland</a> guest posts at The Write Conversation about using lighting to communicate mood in a scene.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>3. I love teacups and saucers. While most of my modest collection aren't antiques, it's fun to read about them. Here's a <a href="http://www.antiqueplateworld.com/antique-tea-cup-and-saucers-collection-tips-for-beginners">website</a> that gives tips for beginning collectors.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Writers: What are some of the techniques you use to show danger or match a dark mood?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Readers: When reading a book, what makes a scene creepy for you?</p>
Cheat Sheet or Quick Reference Guide? Part II by Susan J. Reinhardt
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-28:523145:BlogPost:635893
2014-07-28T13:53:50.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><u><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479947?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479947?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Cheat Sheet or Quick Reference Guide? Part II</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Last week, we talked about Cheat Sheets and how they keep you from putting forth your best writing efforts.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I read a craft book, blog post, or take an online course, I often think, "how am I ever going to remember all this material?" Well, the plain fact is I won't recall…</p>
<p><b><u><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479947?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479947?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Cheat Sheet or Quick Reference Guide? Part II</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Last week, we talked about Cheat Sheets and how they keep you from putting forth your best writing efforts.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I read a craft book, blog post, or take an online course, I often think, "how am I ever going to remember all this material?" Well, the plain fact is I won't recall everything. Unlike a Cheat Sheet, a Quick Reference Guide is designed to summarize the important stuff without explaining every nuance related to the topic. It's a memory jogger not a way to cut corners.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><u>How do I construct a Quick Reference Guide?</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. <b><u>If a nugget jumps out while I'm reading a craft book or other educational tool, I jot it down.</u></b> It's helpful to have more than one document with each focusing on a specific topic.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For example: I have a mental block with techy stuff. "Now, how do I do an em dash?" I have the simple instructions printed out for quick reference. This way, I'm not searching the Internet every time I need an em dash.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>2. <b><u>A short statement that gives me a fast definition of a term.</u></b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>Jill Elizabeth Nelson's book, Rivet Your Reader With Deep Point of View,* drove a particular point home: Don't name your character's emotion. That simple statement keeps me on track when writing my novels.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I read this book while writing my second book, The Scent of Fear. One reader commented: "I don't know what you did in this book, but it's even better than the last one." I employed the principles in Jill's book to my writing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>3. <b><u>Writers Conferences</u></b></p>
<p><b><u> </u></b></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997469317?profile=original"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997469317?profile=original" width="176"/></a>If you want to talk about cramming tons of information into your head, this is the place it happens. Many workshop presenters hand out notes to help you retain the material, but I rarely had time to go over them more than once.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I try to isolate the principles they're teaching and write them down. This helps me remember the highlights and apply them to my writing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>For example: Tim Shoemaker taught a workshop on Show, Don't Tell. He gave out a small tube and a lightweight ball. The lesson is embedded in my brain forever. I look through the tube at the ball. This represents what the Point of View Character sees, hears, and knows. This character cannot refer to what another character is thinking. He's not a mind reader.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>These are the types of items that go on my Quick Reference Guides. Most of the time, they're not formal lists. They can be notes in a file that I can grab when I need them.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>*I was unable to get the Amazon link to work in this post. This book is available on Kindle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Writers: What Quick Reference Tips do you have for me?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Readers: Do you ever save household/DIY/craft or other tips to jog your memory about a subject? Please share.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Answering a Call by Karen Gass
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-26:523145:BlogPost:636016
2014-07-26T18:17:24.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><i><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482343?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482343?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> When the call came for writers who were interested in being part of the Sweetland book project, I jumped at the chance. When they accepted me, I was honored beyond belief!</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What a project</b> - nine authors, each writing a chapter of the book. Each chapter is uniquely created by the author, with her own cast of characters. Although, it’s a good…</p>
<p><b><i><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482343?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482343?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>When the call came for writers who were interested in being part of the Sweetland book project, I jumped at the chance. When they accepted me, I was honored beyond belief!</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What a project</b> - nine authors, each writing a chapter of the book. Each chapter is uniquely created by the author, with her own cast of characters. Although, it’s a good possibility one author’s characters could show up in another author’s chapter. Every story leads to the Labor Day Picnic in Sweetland.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sweetland is a small town, where everybody knows everybody else. Before we could start writing our chapters, we had to create the town of Sweetland. We made a map to keep track of the characters homes, workplaces, restaurants, community buildings and the most important place of all - the ice cream shop. We had to decide on weather conditions, geographical aspects - it was like playing house!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><i>I’m looking forward to the completion of the book, and finding out what happens at the end!</i></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482459?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482459?profile=original" width="200"/></a>Tina Harper has lost her husband, and now her job. Desperate to find another one, she is offered what seems like the perfect job and but has to turn it down. A new friend from church, Amanda Casey, takes Tina under her wing, and they pray together for God’s provision. The gates of Heaven open and the blessings pour down as God begins to provide for Tina’s every need; even a need she didn’t realize she had.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Karen Gass</i></b> is the author and Indie publisher of Morningshine and Morning Glory, the first two books in a 3-book series titled The Spring Street Quilters. She is also the author of Log Cabin Quilts: A Brand New Story by Karen Murphy, published by Martingale and Co. This was the first quilt design book ever printed with a fictional story to go along with each quilt design. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and The Christian Pen. Karen is currently enrolled in Southern New Hampshire University working towards her BA in Creative Writing with a minor in Graphic Design. At this time Karen is working on the third and final book in The Spring Street Quilters series.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><i>The Amazon Kindle link for “Not Forgotten” is</i>: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Summer-Sweetland-6-Not-Forgotten-ebook/dp/B00M33UXQI/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1406381801&sr=1-5&keywords=summer+in+sweetland">http://www.amazon.com/Summer-Sweetland-6-Not-Forgotten-ebook/dp/B00M33UXQI/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1406381801&sr=1-5&keywords=summer+in+sweetland</a></p>
Grab a FREE AUDIO BOOK from Alan Lester!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-26:523145:BlogPost:635511
2014-07-26T13:00:00.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="250"></img></a> Grab a FREE audio book from Alan Lester!</p>
<p><b><i>From Alan:</i></b></p>
<p> "Thank you my friends, for enduring my 10-day countdown. Thank you for caring and sharing my posts! For those who have enjoyed my blogs, I have written another one for today. Hurting in Hope e-book is now available at Amazon, but also, the audio book is available for free download on my website.…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=original"><img width="250" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="250"/></a>Grab a FREE audio book from Alan Lester!</p>
<p><b><i>From Alan:</i></b></p>
<p> "Thank you my friends, for enduring my 10-day countdown. Thank you for caring and sharing my posts! For those who have enjoyed my blogs, I have written another one for today. Hurting in Hope e-book is now available at Amazon, but also, the audio book is available for free download on my website. The paperback is due for release on Thursday 31 July :-) If you get to read or listen to this book, you should know that I have been praying big things for you for months! I trust He will answer those prayers. <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l/wAQF6zqsAAQHTjQYCzLcJHK6MbkdFogTObC3C5O9zUHfsgQ/www.sermonaudio.com/new_details3.asp?ID=78220">http://www.facebook.com/l/wAQF6zqsAAQHTjQYCzLcJHK6MbkdFogTObC3C5O9zUHfsgQ/www.sermonaudio.com/new_details3.asp?ID=78220</a> "</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i><u>Here is more information on “Hurting in Hope: Mom Has Died” :</u></i></b></p>
<p><b>Amazon Kindle link</b>: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hurting-Hope-Mom-Has-Died-ebook/dp/B00M34WEGY/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1406312770&sr=1-1&keywords=alan+lester">http://www.amazon.com/Hurting-Hope-Mom-Has-Died-ebook/dp/B00M34WEGY/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1406312770&sr=1-1&keywords=alan+lester</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Kathi Macias</b> <i>(Award-winning author of more than 40 books <a href="http://kathimacias.com/about-kathi-macias">http://kathimacias.com/about-kathi-macias</a>)</i></p>
<p>“From the depths of agony and loss, Pastor Alan Lester has penned a message of hope and healing to a hurting world. Because he has recently walked through the Valley of the Shadow of Death with his beloved wife and helped his children do the same, he is now able to speak both personally and practically with a passion born of grief and sorrow. Hurting in Hope: Mom Has Died is a book of ever-deepening faith, which will both bless and challenge you—and one you will not soon forget.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482092?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482092?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Shoved into an inescapable disaster, ALAN LESTER is forced to make a phone call to his sixteen-year-old daughter, CHYREECE; mom has died. After uttering those words, he remains on the line with her, driving numbly along a muddy farm road, through a violent South African thunderstorm.</p>
<p>He briefly recalls other terrible moments when his recently deceased wife CHARLEEN had faced similar news. Even her elder brother, her last remaining relative, had died very suddenly just over two weeks previously, and now the time of her own death had come.</p>
<p>The author skims over nineteen years of beautiful married love, culminating in a final encapsulating thought; he and his wife had not parted with untidy loose ends because they had learned to live their goodbye. At the time of her death, there had been nothing left unsaid. This tranquillity extended even into the very moment of his wife's heartbreaking moment of death.</p>
<p>Instead of wandering alone in a morbid wasteland after his wife's death, the author describes the beautiful ways in which family gave him a new place to call home. This compassionate family life was not limited to biological family members, but extended even to the household of God—the church. He gives testimony of genuine loving relationships that bore the brunt of the author's weakness.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Dr. Josh Mack</b> (<i>Pastor of Living Hope Church, Pretoria, South Africa <a href="http://www.livinghopechurch.co.za">www.livinghopechurch.co.za</a> <a href="http://joshnmarda.wordpress.com">http://joshnmarda.wordpress.com</a>)</i></p>
<p>“I am so glad God has given us examples of how to honor Him in the most difficult moments. For me, Alan Lester has been one of those. As I have watched him grieve and as I have listened to him pray and as I have heard him sing and as I have seen him continue to live for Christ in the midst of intense pain, I have often wished others would have the opportunity to learn from him as well. I am thankful he's written this book because I believe it gives a real life glimpse into the way God's grace can change the way we as Christians live, love, suffer and comfort those in pain.”</p>
Love ,Acceptance,Connection,The Dark Side...Mark Carver's "Indelible"
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-25:523145:BlogPost:635920
2014-07-25T18:11:43.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><i><u><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482640?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482640?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Mark Carver just released “Indelible” on paperback yesterday!</u></i></b></p>
<p><i>It is an interesting novel to say the least.</i></p>
<p><b>Check out this one review, take right from Amazon:</b></p>
<p> I really loved this book! <b><i>The story of an artist, struggling with his darker sides, wanting to be noticed, but also looking for love and acceptance and…</i></b></p>
<p><b><i><u><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482640?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482640?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Mark Carver just released “Indelible” on paperback yesterday!</u></i></b></p>
<p><i>It is an interesting novel to say the least.</i></p>
<p><b>Check out this one review, take right from Amazon:</b></p>
<p> I really loved this book! <b><i>The story of an artist, struggling with his darker sides, wanting to be noticed, but also looking for love and acceptance and connection.</i></b></p>
<p><i> </i></p>
<p><i>You can have them both, right?</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Well, when trouble falls upon the dog early on in this story, you know things aren't going to go as planned. This was a very cool book, an interesting character study, and I read it with eagerness during each sitting. It is the kind of read that both writers and readers alike would connect to. The prose is inviting, easily digested in large morsels and never gets in the way of the story. It largely is told from the POV of one character, and the author expertly has the reader stuck in the middle of this character's dillemas. On one side is the allure of recognition of his art, status with the fans, facebook likes and retweets and adoration at conventions. On the other side is something that seems deeper: an opportunity at a relationship that can provide a more meaningful happiness but without all the artistic recognition.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>You can have both, right?</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Well, characters we like acting against their own best interest makes for some great fiction. I found myself wanting the main character to speak up more, to express his feelings, to offer a kiss, to stop taking that pill, to do this and that and otherwise, but that's not what us humans always do. The author seemed to enjoy having the character participate in mini self-sabatoge while the reader thinks... "no, don't do it.. don't do it." I love how the author did the ending, although I am sure some will want something different. Either way, the character here is someone you will invest in, and the book is an excellent achievement.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>~Mark Matthews</b>, <i>author of On the Lips of Children</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479121?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479121?profile=original" width="200"/></a>Here is the synopsis, link for novel and a little bit on Mark Carver:</b></p>
<p><b>Amazon link:</b> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Indelible-Mark-Carver/dp/1622084128/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1406310692&sr=8-4&keywords=mark+carver"><b>http://www.amazon.com/Indelible-Mark-Carver/dp/1622084128/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1406310692&sr=8-4&keywords=mark+carver</b></a></p>
<p>Most people would say that Cameron McConnell has a pretty sweet life - living in sunny California, designing fantasy weapons for big-name clients, and enjoying his bachelorhood with his loyal dog Conan.</p>
<p>But it's not enough. Cameron knows that deep inside him is a barbarian that wants to break free. The only problem is that no one else knows it.</p>
<p>So he makes a drastic choice: a savage tattoo on the left side of his face.</p>
<p>From that moment on, everything changes. His family is horrified. Women are intrigued. Friends are in awe. And the fantasy weapons world goes nuts. Cameron becomes an instantly-recognizable celebrity, and he thinks that this could be what he was missing all along.</p>
<p>But what happens when the mask we show the world becomes a permanent part of us? And what happens when we start to believe the myth we have created?</p>
<p><b><i>Mark Carver</i></b> is the author of The Age of Apollyon Trilogy, the short story series The Jerusalem Chronicles, and Indelible. His next book, Cyn, will be released soon and he is currently working on his sixth novel, Beast. Besides writing, he is passionate about art, tattoos, heavy metal, and medieval architecture.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After living in China for more than eight years, he now lives in Atlanta, GA with his wife and two children.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><i>Please visit Mark's homepage for news and info</i>: <a href="http://www.markcarverbooks.com">http://www.markcarverbooks.com</a><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480034?profile=original"><img width="500" class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480034?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="500"/></a><a href="http://www.markcarverbooks.com"></a></p>
<p> </p>
Contests, Giveaways, Free Sample Chapters to read & much more! Melanie M. Jeschke's "Expectations"
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-25:523145:BlogPost:635613
2014-07-25T12:31:26.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482454?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482454?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Melanie M. Jeschke was on The G-ZONE recently discussing “Inklings”, “Intentions”, and her soon, August 7th, to be released novel “Expectations”.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Right now she is at Oxford University guest lecturing and guiding tours. She will be back on The G-ZONE in early Aug. to discuss her experience.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You can take part in some fun while she is gone. Click…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482454?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482454?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Melanie M. Jeschke was on The G-ZONE recently discussing “Inklings”, “Intentions”, and her soon, August 7th, to be released novel “Expectations”.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Right now she is at Oxford University guest lecturing and guiding tours. She will be back on The G-ZONE in early Aug. to discuss her experience.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You can take part in some fun while she is gone. Click on the link below and go to a Tab Helping Hands Press has set up for her. On that tab you will find our last interview on blogtalk on the sidebar, a sample of “Expectations” to read, and on Monday there will be contests and giveaways.</p>
<p>Here is the link and more:</p>
<p> <a href="http://myhelpinghandspress.blogspot.com/p/expectations.html#.U9JJZbE3dYY">http://myhelpinghandspress.blogspot.com/p/expectations.html#.U9JJZbE3dYY</a> </p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Expectations</b></p>
<p>The Oxford Chronicles</p>
<p>Melanie M. Jeschke</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><b>An unforgettable tale of dreams pursued</b></p>
<p align="center"><b>in Tolkien’s Oxford and romantic Paris</b></p>
<p align="center"><b> </b></p>
<p>From the humble Oxford home of Edith and J.R.R. Tolkien to the sophisticated culture of Paris, this inspiring sequel to <i>Inklings</i> and <i>Intentions</i> follows a complex journey through loss and recovery. </p>
<p align="center"><b> </b></p>
<p>In the autumn of 1965, four members of the Oxford University Inklings Society face different challenges as they hurry to their agreed-upon rendezvous at the Eastgate Hotel. Newlywed Kate MacKenzie has just learned that her constant nausea is due to an unplanned pregnancy. Her husband David is bursting with the good news that he has been invited to spend a semester as a visiting lecturer at the American College in Paris. Yvette Goodman, though a successful scholar, is struggling with her disappointment in her single status as her twenty-ninth birthday looms ahead. Oxford don Austen Holmes makes a detour to the St. Cross cemetery, where he pays a brief visit to the grave of his young wife.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>They all believe they have a glimpse into what their futures hold. They all have dreams and longings, as well as disappointments and sorrows. Will God provide for Kate, David, Yvette, and Austen as they hope He will, or is His plan for each of them something far beyond their expectations?</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>“The wonder of C.S. Lewis's and J.R.R. Tolkien's Oxford, the joy of romance, and the challenge of faithful commitment in a fallen world—in Melanie Jeschke's gifted hands, these are the ingredients for a great love story and, more importantly, a renewed and renewing celebration of God's grace and mercy.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>—Dr. Bruce Edwards, C.S. Lewis Scholar and editor of <i>Further Up & Further In: Understanding C.S. Lewis’s the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.</i></p>
Patti J. Smith - New Release - "Behind The Smile: Overcoming Depression through Scripture and Prayer"
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-24:523145:BlogPost:635410
2014-07-24T12:51:15.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481678?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481678?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Behind our smiles are tears. We are the victims of depression. We are the ones who are fighting a war within ourselves – a war that consists of many battles on many fronts. Of those won, the losses always seem to eclipse the triumphs.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This book addresses the spiritual side of the battle by utilizing personalized scripture, to bring the reader into God's word…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481678?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481678?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Behind our smiles are tears. We are the victims of depression. We are the ones who are fighting a war within ourselves – a war that consists of many battles on many fronts. Of those won, the losses always seem to eclipse the triumphs.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This book addresses the spiritual side of the battle by utilizing personalized scripture, to bring the reader into God's word with the goal of providing serenity and hope.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We can be victorious … through treatment, scripture and prayer.</p>
<p>The Amazon Kindle link for “Behind The Smile” is: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Behind-Smile-Overcoming-Depression-Scripture-ebook/dp/B00LWKJ61Q/ref=la_B00FGT9ODY_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1406205400&sr=1-4">http://www.amazon.com/Behind-Smile-Overcoming-Depression-Scripture-ebook/dp/B00LWKJ61Q/ref=la_B00FGT9ODY_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1406205400&sr=1-4</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Patti J. Smith was born in Wimpole Park, England. She lived in England and Morocco as well as several state-side Air Force Bases and considers her father's last assignment, Moses Lake, Washington, her hometown. She audited for the Dept. of Labor and Veteran's Administration Offices of Inspector General, served in the U.S. Army Reserve (Transit Control Unit and Criminal Investigation Division) and recently retired as a background investigator.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Patti lives in Vista, CA with her husband and has three granddaughters. She serves as a Regional Coordinator for the Silent No More Awareness Campaign, Co-leads Rachel's Hope After-Abortion Healing Retreats and sings in her parish choir.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Her writing includes devotionals, light romance and suspense, and her strong faith is reflected in each genre.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>She is a prolific blogger and reader, and proudly admits to being a diehard Seattle Seahawks fan and Fantasy Football fanatic. Her travel adventures include Spain, Mexico, Canada, Australia, Fiji, South Korea and almost all states - including Hawaii and Alaska.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Follow her blog: <a href="http://www.gridirongrannyfootballfanatic.blogspot.com/">http://www.gridirongrannyfootballfanatic.blogspot.com/</a></p>
<p>Goodreads: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7306825.Patti_J_Smith">www.goodreads.com/author/show/7306825.Patti_J_Smith</a></p>
<p>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/gridirongranny5">https://twitter.com/gridirongranny5</a></p>
<p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/giridirongranny">https://www.facebook.com/giridirongranny</a></p>
<p>Pinterest: <a href="http://wwwpinterest.com/gridirongranny">http://wwwpinterest.com/gridirongranny</a></p>
Lester Ray Tibbett, one of the characters in Tracy Krauss' fun filled romance series "Neighbors"!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-23:523145:BlogPost:635398
2014-07-23T21:42:28.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><i><u><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481595?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481595?profile=original" width="333"></img></a> Here is a fun interview with one of the characters from my series NEIGHBORS:</u></i></b></p>
<p><b>What is your full name?</b></p>
<p>Lester Ray Tibbett. My parents were country people - old fashioned, and they named their kids accordingly. My sister's name is Patsi Mae. She hates it and goes by Pat, but I don't mind so much. You can call me Lester, or Lester Ray -…</p>
<p><b><i><u><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481595?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481595?profile=original" width="333"/></a>Here is a fun interview with one of the characters from my series NEIGHBORS:</u></i></b></p>
<p><b>What is your full name?</b></p>
<p>Lester Ray Tibbett. My parents were country people - old fashioned, and they named their kids accordingly. My sister's name is Patsi Mae. She hates it and goes by Pat, but I don't mind so much. You can call me Lester, or Lester Ray - just don't call me late for supper.</p>
<p><b>Very funny. I take it you and your sister are close?</b></p>
<p>Yes. I've been her guardian for the last nine years since our parents died. She was only nine at the time. I took over both the farm and the responsibility of looking after her. I suppose you could say I'm more of a father figure than a brother. </p>
<p><b>That was quite a responsibility. Are you quite a bit older than she is?</b></p>
<p>I was twenty-three when my folks passed. You do the math.</p>
<p><b>So what brought a thirty-two year old boy from the country to the city of Calgary? (I did the math, as you can see...)</b></p>
<p>A combination of things. Bad debts (which I hate to admit) and old equipment, combined with several years of drought. Plus, Patsi finished school and it seemed like it was a good time to move so she could go to college.</p>
<p><b>What are you doing now that you've moved?</b></p>
<p>I got a job with a big construction company called 'Titan'. They're in the process of building a high rise downtown. It's new work for me, but I've always been pretty handy, and I learn fast. And you don't grow up on a farm without knowing how to work hard.</p>
<p><b>Speaking of growing up on a farm, I hear you are also quite the rodeo cowboy. Is that true?</b></p>
<p>I've done my share. I used to ride broncs, but after an injury I gave it up. There wasn't really any money in it for me and let's be honest - it's a dangerous sport. I still love watching, though, and I don't mind getting back in the saddle just for fun.</p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481699?profile=original"><img width="400" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481699?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="400"/></a>Where is your favourite place to hang out in Calgary?</b></p>
<p>I go to this pub downtown called the 'Urban Cowboy' a lot with my friend Jed Malloy. I don't drink much, but I like to play pool and it also has one of those old school mechanical bulls, which is a hoot.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Is there anyone special in your life?</b></p>
<p>You mean besides Jesus?</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Is that a joke?</b></p>
<p>No. I'm a Christian and not ashamed to say it. If you mean a special woman, maybe, but that might be privileged information.</p>
<p><b>I see. If you did have a girlfriend, what kind of woman would she be?</b></p>
<p>Down to earth, I guess. I'm a pretty down to earth kind of guy myself. Not too pretentious and not too needy. And obviously she'd have to share my values.</p>
<p><b>Doesn't sound too difficult, but then again you are over thirty and still haven't found her. Do you think you're being too choosy?</b></p>
<p>Absolutely not. I've been busy looking after the farm and raising my sister. I just haven't had time for a serious relationship. Now that Patsi is grown, I'm starting to think more about my own needs for companionship. A life partner.</p>
<p><b>More than anything else, what do you want in life?</b></p>
<p>To be happy. To see my sister settled. That's about it. Like I said, I'm not a very complicated sort of guy. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Anything else you'd like to tell us about yourself?</b></p>
<p>That's about it, I guess. I'm not that comfortable talking about myself. I don't like being in the limelight. I just like to mind my own business and live a quiet life.</p>
<p><b><i>Thanks for this interview, Lester.</i></b></p>
<p>In fact, living a quiet life isn't really part of the equation for Lester. See how he deals with a rebellious sister, nosy neighbours, danger on the job site, and his attraction to a woman that probably wouldn't have made his 'must have' list... All in the continuing series NEIGHBORS. </p>
<p>The Amazon Kindle link for “Neighbors” is: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Neighbors-New-Neighborhood-Tracy-Krauss-ebook/dp/B00IK6799Q/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1406150954&sr=1-4&keywords=tracy+krauss+neighbors">http://www.amazon.com/Neighbors-New-Neighborhood-Tracy-Krauss-ebook/dp/B00IK6799Q/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1406150954&sr=1-4&keywords=tracy+krauss+neighbors</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
"Homeowner With A Gun" by Samuel Hawley
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-23:523145:BlogPost:635451
2014-07-23T18:26:33.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481616?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481616?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Samuel Hawley was on The G-ZONE yesterday, we covered a variety of topics including a new release he has coming up in October. Here is the cover, the synopsis and the link for the show:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The G-ZONE show link:…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481616?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481616?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Samuel Hawley was on The G-ZONE yesterday, we covered a variety of topics including a new release he has coming up in October. Here is the cover, the synopsis and the link for the show:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The G-ZONE show link: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/23/samuel-hawley-author-of-bad-elephant-far-stream-returns-to-the-g-zone">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/23/samuel-hawley-author-of-bad-elephant-far-stream-returns-to-the-g-zone</a></p>
<p><b>From Samuel Hawley:</b></p>
<p><i>It was great to be on the show, Giovanni. Thanks!</i></p>
<p>Here is a synopsis of "Homeowner With a Gun," and the cover .</p>
<p><b><i>“HOMEOWNER WITH A GUN”</i></b> (release date- October 2014)</p>
<p><i>It’s the middle of the night. You’re awakened by a noise. Someone is in your house. What do you do?</i></p>
<p>When it happens at 148 Maple Drive, homeowner Jeff Shaw gets his gun and goes downstairs to investigate while his wife calls 9-1-1. It’s their home, after all. Jeff has to protect it. He finds two men in the kitchen and shoots them both. Dead.</p>
<p>The incident puts great strain on Jeff and his family. He wants to believe they just need to get on with their lives and everything will return to normal. But it’s not that easy. The dead intruders belonged to a gang, ANG, “Ain’t No Game,” that now wants revenge. And one of the gang, an ex-con who goes by the name I-Man, knows more about the break-in than he’s letting on.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It starts with a threatening phone call. Then it gets worse. The police, unable to protect the Shaws, suggest they move away for a while. What should Jeff do? Homeowner With a Gun takes the reader on a white-knuckle thrill ride as this everyman fights to save himself and his family, while something a detective said plays in the back of his mind: "Maybe the intruders broke into the wrong house. Happens all the time. You wouldn’t believe how often..."</p>
<p> </p>
Samuel Hawley Returns to The G-ZONE this morning @ 10AMEST!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-23:523145:BlogPost:635357
2014-07-23T11:32:04.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481674?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481674?profile=original" width="300"></img></a> Good Morning Everybody!</b></p>
<p><i>This morning @10AMEST Samuel Hawley returns to The G-ZONE to discuss his many novels, books, and</i></p>
<p><i>unique writing process. Please join us either live or on the archives as your time allows.</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The link for the show is:…</p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481674?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481674?profile=original" width="300"/></a>Good Morning Everybody!</b></p>
<p><i>This morning @10AMEST Samuel Hawley returns to The G-ZONE to discuss his many novels, books, and</i></p>
<p><i>unique writing process. Please join us either live or on the archives as your time allows.</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The link for the show is: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/23/samuel-hawley-author-of-bad-elephant-far-stream-returns-to-the-g-zone">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/23/samuel-hawley-author-of-bad-elephant-far-stream-returns-to-the-g-zone</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Samuel Hawley was born and grew up in South Korea, the son of missionary parents. After earning BA and MA degrees in history at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, he returned to East Asia with his wife to work as a teacher for nearly two decades, first in Japan and then Korea, ending in 2007 as an associate professor of English at Yonsei University in Seoul. He additionally served for three years as head of Yonsei’s 3,000-student Communicative English Department, and as publications chairman and editor for the Royal Asiatic Society, Korea Branch. He continues to serve as general editor of the Society’s annual journal Transactions, the oldest Korean studies journal in the world, published since 1900.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997478568?profile=original"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997478568?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"/></a>It was in Japan in the early 1990s that Samuel started writing for magazines and newspapers on topics ranging from Japanese fashion and international travel to the world of sumo wrestling, daimyo clocks and fishing at urban tsuribori. By the late ‘90s he had turned his attention to books. His most notable work from this period is The Imjin War (co-published by the Royal Asiatic Society, Seoul and the Insitute of East Asian Studies, UC Berkeley, 2005) the most comprehensive account in English of Japan’s sixteenth-century invasion of Korea and attempted conquest of China, an event of seismic importance in the history of East Asia. He next focused on US Navy ensign and American diplomat George C. Foulk, Washington’s representative in Seoul at the time of Korea’s opening to the West. Foulk, one of the first Westerners to learn to speak Korean and to travel extensively in the country, was perhaps the foremost Western expert at the time on the “Hermit Kingdom." Hawley's interest in Foulk resulted in two books, America's Man in Korea, and Inside the Hermit Kingdom (both Lexington Books, 2007).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After returning to Canada in 2007, Samuel began writing popular nonfiction full-time. His first work in this new vein was I Just Ran: Percy Williams, World’s Fastest Human (Ronsdale Press) about one of Canada’s greatest yet least known athletes. I Just Ran won an Independent Publisher Awards silver medal and was named one of five "Best Sports Books of the Year" by the CBC. He followed this with Speed Duel: The Inside Story of the Land Speed Record in the Sixties (Firefly Books), which received starred reviews in both Publishers Weekly and Library Journal. He has most recently written a novel, Bad Elephant Far Stream (Conquistador Press, 2013), and a feature film screenplay, Speed Duel, based on his book.</p>
Meet Bryan Leland Tate MD from "The San Francisco Wedding Planner" by Jen Cudmore
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-22:523145:BlogPost:635110
2014-07-22T19:18:41.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481541?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481541?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Today I’m going to tell you about Bryan, the handsome ortho surgeon from the short stories I’ve been writing. I’m part of a 5 author team working together on the San Francisco Wedding Planner series.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I picture Bryan much like Paul Rudd. Not a total hottie but definitely a cutie pie. He’s about 6 feet tall with blue eyes and typically clean shaven. He’s 36…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481541?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481541?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Today I’m going to tell you about Bryan, the handsome ortho surgeon from the short stories I’ve been writing. I’m part of a 5 author team working together on the San Francisco Wedding Planner series.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I picture Bryan much like Paul Rudd. Not a total hottie but definitely a cutie pie. He’s about 6 feet tall with blue eyes and typically clean shaven. He’s 36 years old when he first meets Heather, owner of Donovan’s Wedding Service.</p>
<p><b><i>So, Bryan. You grew up in San Francisco?</i></b></p>
<p>Yes. Spent most of my childhood here, playing baseball. Mom and I moved to Seattle when I was in high school. I enjoyed Washington state, but I’m glad to be back.</p>
<p><b><i>And you’re much older than your brother Raul.</i></b></p>
<p>I was twelve when he was born. After my parents split, I stayed with my mom, so we didn’t live in the same house, but I was over there all the time. He was my little buddy until I moved away. I wouldn’t say we’re close, but we understand each other and respect our differences.</p>
<p><b><i>Tell me some ways you’re different from Raul.</i></b></p>
<p>I don’t get into as much trouble. Hehe! No, I mean, he likes to wear a ton of bling and cologne; it takes him two hours to get ready each morning. I’m more simple; I prefer jeans and T-shirts. He makes fun of my flannels all the time, but that’s what I mostly wore in Seattle. Raul has a million friends, and I’m happy to just have a few. He’s very much a people person, which is why he’s always doing karaoke. He keeps trying to get me to go, but I don’t like to be in the spotlight. Give me a guy with a broken femur or a rotator cuff injury and I can handle that, no problem. Just don’t make me give a speech or sing in public!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>What are your hobbies?</i></b></p>
<p>I enjoy cooking. I cooked all the time for my mom before she passed. She especially loved my omelets. My favorite is lasagna – love to cook it, love to eat it! I also enjoy hunting. Just took my first trip to Alaska last fall to hunt for moose.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Tell us about the women in your life</i>.</b></p>
<p>Well, my first steady girlfriend was Jocelyn. We dated when I was in high school but I botched that up pretty bad when I went to college. I dated a few girls in college but nothing serious until I met Mandy. I actually thought she was the one, and we spent 5 years together. But unfortunately I was wrong about her.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481577?profile=original"><img width="400" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481577?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="400"/></a>And now you’re dating Heather. Is it true that Raul set you up?</i></b></p>
<p>Hehe. Yes, actually, it was pretty much his fault we’re together. But I don’t give him all the credit. Heather is great. I love how simple she is, and yet so beautiful. She really cares about people, you know? She works so hard to give her clients what they want and make sure they have the perfect wedding. I love that. She makes me want to be a better person.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Heather describes herself as persistent and a worrier. Would you agree?</i></b></p>
<p>Uh, yeah, I guess so. She’s a bit too hard on herself, really. But I think we balance each other out pretty good. I hope she thinks so, too.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>What do you think of her mother? And her best friend Skye?</i></b></p>
<p>Well…what can I say about Gloria? She’s a sweet lady – a teenager trapped in a grandmother’s body! She means well. Heather’s friend Skye is … different. I don’t know her that well, but I’m hoping to become better acquainted with her soon.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>COMING SOON!</b> <i>All 6 stories have been combined into one book and will be released in paperback this weekend!</i></p>
<p>The next segment of short stories will be released in only a few weeks. All the characters from the series tell a bit more of their backstory – what shaped who they are today. I’ll let you know the release date just as soon as I’m informed!</p>
The G-ZONE - A Doubleheader of Suspense & Thriller @10AMEST- D.P. Lyle & Patti J. Smith!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-22:523145:BlogPost:635101
2014-07-22T11:48:04.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><i><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481537?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481537?profile=original" width="200"></img></a> We have two guests on The G-ZONE today: D.P. Lyle starts the show off and Patti J. Smith takes us home as she comes in at the half way mark.</i></b></p>
<p><i>Here is a little bit on both authors</i>:</p>
<p><b><i>D. P. Lyle</i></b> is the Macavity and Benjamin Franklin Silver Award winning and Edgar, Agatha, Anthony, Scribe, and USA Best Book Award nominated author of…</p>
<p><b><i><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481537?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481537?profile=original" width="200"/></a>We have two guests on The G-ZONE today: D.P. Lyle starts the show off and Patti J. Smith takes us home as she comes in at the half way mark.</i></b></p>
<p><i>Here is a little bit on both authors</i>:</p>
<p><b><i>D. P. Lyle</i></b> is the Macavity and Benjamin Franklin Silver Award winning and Edgar, Agatha, Anthony, Scribe, and USA Best Book Award nominated author of many non-fiction books (MURDER & MAYHEM; FORENSICS FOR DUMMIES; FORENSICS & FICTION; MORE FORENSICS & FICTION; HOWDUNNIT: FORENSICS; and ABA FUNDAMENTALS: UNDERSTANDING FORENSIC SCIENCE) as well as numerous works of fiction, including the Samantha Cody thriller series (DEVIL’S PLAYGROUND, DOUBLE BLIND, and ORIGINAL SIN); the Dub Walker Thriller series (STRESS FRACTURE; HOT LIGHTS, COLD STEEL, and RUN TO GROUND); and the Royal Pains media tie-in novels (ROYAL PAINS: FIRST, DO NO HARM and ROYAL PAINS: SICK RICH). His essay on Jules Verne’s THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND appears in THRILLERS: 100 MUST READS and his short story “Even Steven” in ITW’s anthology THRILLER 3: LOVE IS MURDER.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481620?profile=original"><img width="200" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481620?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="200"/></a>Patti J. Smith</i></b>: was born in Wimpole Park, England. She lived in England and Morocco as well as several state-side Air Force Bases and considers her father's last assignment, Moses Lake, Washington, her hometown. She audited for the Dept. of Labor and Veteran's Administration Offices of Inspector General, served in the U.S. Army Reserve (Transit Control Unit and Criminal Investigation Division) and recently retired as a background investigator.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Patti lives in Vista, CA with her husband and has three granddaughters. She serves as a Regional Coordinator for the Silent No More Awareness Campaign, Co-leads Rachel's Hope After-Abortion Healing Retreats and sings in her parish choir.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><b><i><u>The link for the show is</u></i></b>:<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/22/dp-lyle-and-patti-j-smith-return-to-the-g-zone">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/22/dp-lyle-and-patti-j-smith-return-to-the-g-zone</a></p>
Meet Private Calvin Mitchell—a female soldier during the Civil War and one of the main characters in ‘The Officer’s Daughter’
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-21:523145:BlogPost:635327
2014-07-21T23:44:16.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480752?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480752?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Meet Private Calvin Mitchell—a female soldier during the Civil War and one of the main characters in ‘The Officer’s Daughter’</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>I’m part of the <b>Summer Reading Blog Tour</b> and today it is my turn to interview a character in my latest release, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KNET26Q/"><b><i>The Officer’s Daughter</i></b></a> – a Civil War…</p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480752?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480752?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Meet Private Calvin Mitchell—a female soldier during the Civil War and one of the main characters in ‘The Officer’s Daughter’</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>I’m part of the <b>Summer Reading Blog Tour</b> and today it is my turn to interview a character in my latest release, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KNET26Q/"><b><i>The Officer’s Daughter</i></b></a> – a Civil War romance, part of Murray Pura’s American Civil War series ‘Let Freedom Ring’.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I invited Private Calvin Mitchell for a cup of tea and a nice little chat. It may surprise you that this private is not a man but a woman. In 1864, women were not allowed to fight in the war between the States – but Calvin did. She has tried hard to keep her true gender a secret, but the captain of her company found out.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What is your real name?</b></p>
<p>You didn’t really think I was going to answer this question, I hope. I haven’t even told Captain Andrew Burns. But maybe I will spill my secret at the end of my story . . .</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>All right, Calvin, let’s go on to the next question. Why did you join the Union army? It is not allowed for a woman to fight, because it is a man’s job. So why did you change your petticoats for trousers?</b></p>
<p>I’m a tomboy really. My mother died when I was young and my father and six brothers were my daily examples. I loved doing what they did. So when everyone from my family had joined up and left me alone, I decided to do the same thing they did – just like I have done my whole life.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Weren’t you afraid to get shot or die?</b></p>
<p>I don’t like to admit it, but yes, I was afraid. Especially during my first battle when I realized that I had two options; shoot the enemy or get shot by them. I was terrified when I saw everyone in my company changing into blood thirsty animals – and even more frightened when I realized that I was one of them.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>I can’t imagine how that would have been. Did you ever regret your decision?</b></p>
<p>Sometimes I doubted if I had made the right decision, but somewhere deep inside I knew I was in the right place and that kept me going. When I was wounded, it was the first time I regretted my decision – especially when Captain Burns discovered my secret.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481695?profile=original"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481695?profile=original" width="200"/></a>You sound like a tough girl – but are you really?</b></p>
<p>Well, I do like to believe I’m tough, but one person can make me vulnerable. I don’t always like it, but I guess that’s part of falling in love.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>All right! Then now I want to know who that one person is, of course. </b>J</p>
<p>Well, he is a warm and friendly man with his heart in the right place – a natural leader. And he is tall and muscular and handsome *swoon*. . . Yes, you’ve guessed it right – it is Captain Burns.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Oh, I think I’ve seen him. Brown hair, brown eyes?</b></p>
<p>Yes, that’s him! *smile*</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Besides Captain Burns, did you make other friends during your time of enlistment?</b></p>
<p>I tried to be the quiet boy that no one noticed so I wouldn’t be found out, but there were some soldiers I worked with very closely. One of them is Corporal Shane Dean. He is an all right fellow, I guess. Always likes to tease me and Bubba, my pet squirrel.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>You have a pet squirrel? How nice! I’d love to see him some day.</b></p>
<p>He’s outside, waiting in a tree for my return. He doesn’t like to come inside. But you can meet him before I go home.</p>
<p><b>I’d like that!</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>You’re still young. What do you hope to do with your life when the war is over?</b></p>
<p>I’d like to live on a farm with many animals and have children with Captain Burns. *blush*</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Sounds like a good plan. I hope you will get what you long for. Thanks for being with us today and answering my questions. All the best to you and the captain!</b></p>
<p>Thank you!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481709?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481709?profile=original" width="300"/></a>Here is the complete list of participants. Visit the blogs you haven't read yet and keep an eye on what is yet to come. Some authors are hosting a giveaway, so you might win free ebooks along the way!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Monday, July 14 – Ruth L. Snyder – <a href="http://ruthlsnyder.com/introducing-heather-donovan-from-the-san-francisco-wedding-planner-series/">http://ruthlsnyder.com/</a></p>
<p>Tuesday, July 15 – Cindy Noonan – <a href="http://cindynoonan.com/">http://CindyNoonan.com</a></p>
<p>Wednesday, July 16 – Mishael Witty – <a href="http://bluebrownbooks.com/">http://bluebrownbooks.com/</a></p>
<p>Thursday, July 17 – Michele Huey – <a href="http://christianwriterspage.blogspot.com/">http://christianwriterspage.blogspot.com/</a></p>
<p>Friday, July 18 – Patti J. Smith – <a href="http://gridirongrannyfootballfanatic.blogspot.com/">http://gridirongrannyfootballfanatic.blogspot.com/</a></p>
<p>Saturday, July 19 – Amber Schamel – <a href="http://amberschamel.blogspot.com/">http://amberschamel.blogspot.com/</a></p>
<p>Sunday, July 20 – Mark Carver – <a href="http://www.markcarverbooks.com/">http://www.markcarverbooks.com</a></p>
<p>Monday, July 21 – Marian Baay – <a href="http://marianbaay.blogspot.com/">http://marianbaay.blogspot.com</a></p>
<p>Tuesday, July 22 – Jen Cudmore – <a href="http://www.jencudmore.com/">www.jencudmore.com</a></p>
<p>Wednesday, July 23 – Tracy Krauss – <a href="http://www.tracykraussexpressionexpress.com/">http://www.tracykraussexpressionexpress.com/</a></p>
<p>Thursday, July 24 – Marcia Laycock – <a href="http://marcialeelaycock.com/thespur/">http://marcialeelaycock.com/thespur/</a></p>
<p>Friday, July 25 – Joy Ross Davis – <a href="http://www.joyrossdavis.com/">www.joyrossdavis.com</a></p>
<p>Saturday, July 26 – Travis Perry – <a href="http://travissbigidea.blogspot.com/">http://travissbigidea.blogspot.com/</a></p>
<p>Sunday, July 27 – Mark Venturini – <a href="http://markventurinijourney.blogspot.ca/">http://markventurinijourney.blogspot.ca/</a></p>
<p>Monday, July 28 – Iola Kirkwood – <a href="http://iokirkwood.com/">http://iokirkwood.com/</a></p>
<p>Tuesday, July 29 – Marsha Hubler – <a href="http://www.marshahubler.wordpress.com/">marshahubler.wordpress.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Did you like this post? Please share on your social media. Thank you!</p>
<p> </p>
D.P. Lyle,Patti J. Smith,Tracy Krauss,Kathy Nickerson...all on The G-ZONE this week!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-21:523145:BlogPost:635222
2014-07-21T19:34:09.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><i><u><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479545?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479545?profile=original" width="300"></img></a> Happy Monday to all!</u></i></b></p>
<p><i>Yes, I know it is the middle of the afternoon already, the day half shot.</i></p>
<p>Here is what is happening on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show this week:</p>
<p><b>Monday-Today- the broadcast has already happened.</b></p>
<p><i>But so what-you can catch the show on the archives anytime 24/7 at your leisure. Here is the…</i></p>
<p><b><i><u><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479545?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479545?profile=original" width="300"/></a>Happy Monday to all!</u></i></b></p>
<p><i>Yes, I know it is the middle of the afternoon already, the day half shot.</i></p>
<p>Here is what is happening on The G-ZONE blogtalk radio show this week:</p>
<p><b>Monday-Today- the broadcast has already happened.</b></p>
<p><i>But so what-you can catch the show on the archives anytime 24/7 at your leisure. Here is the link:</i></p>
<p><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/21/tracy-krauss-kathy-nickerson-return-to-the-g-zone">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/21/tracy-krauss-kathy-nickerson-return-to-the-g-zone</a></p>
<p><i>The rest of the week looks like this:</i></p>
<p><b>Tuesday</b>: D.P. Lyle & Patti J. Smith 10AMEST</p>
<p><b>Weds.</b> :Samuel Hawley -10AMEST</p>
<p><b>Thursday:</b> Dianna T. Benson & Jerry Guin</p>
<p><i>The main link for the show remains the same</i>- <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop</a></p>
<p>As does the call in number,1949-270-5955, if you any questions for the guests.</p>
<p><b><i><u>We hope that will listen in. Have a great day! </u></i></b></p>
Bouncing Around The Net by Susan J. Reinhardt
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-20:523145:BlogPost:635055
2014-07-20T20:48:47.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><u><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997469317?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997469317?profile=original" width="176"></img></a> Bouncing Around the Net</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Let's take off down the Internet court and dribble that ball. Ready, set, shoot that basket!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. <a href="http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/7-things-i-learned-so-far-by-heather-sellers">Heather Sellers</a> guest blogs on the Writers Digest website. Here are…</p>
<p><b><u><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997469317?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997469317?profile=original" width="176"/></a>Bouncing Around the Net</u></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Let's take off down the Internet court and dribble that ball. Ready, set, shoot that basket!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>1. <a href="http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/guide-to-literary-agents/7-things-i-learned-so-far-by-heather-sellers">Heather Sellers</a> guest blogs on the Writers Digest website. Here are 7 things she's learned so far in her writing career. Check out these valuable tips.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>2. Carol Garvin, at <a href="http://www.careann.wordpress.com/2014/07/18/confidence-building-tlc-for-writers/">Careann's Musings</a>, often blogs about gardening and nature. Her pictures are an integral part of her posts. She relates one of her experiences to the importance of attending writers conferences.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>3. Bruce Brady guest posts at <a href="http://thewriteconversation.blogspot.com/2014/07/life-lessonsdont-let-donts-stop-you.html">The Write Conversation</a>. He talks about not letting don'ts stop you. With a title like that, I had to read it.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Writers: Have you attended a writers conference? Please share your experience.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Readers: Have you ever undertaken a project people said was absurd (or impossible) and succeeded? Please share.</p>
<p> </p>
Strong Root Systems by Sue Badeau
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-19:523145:BlogPost:635115
2014-07-19T17:44:10.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481591?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481591?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> While having our coffee this morning, and listening to the wind whip through our neighborhood, my husband remarked, “Its amazing that the trees in our backyard have survived all the windstorms and hurricanes that have run through here.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“They must have good root systems,” I casually replied.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Root systems – that's what holds trees firm in the…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481591?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481591?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>While having our coffee this morning, and listening to the wind whip through our neighborhood, my husband remarked, “Its amazing that the trees in our backyard have survived all the windstorms and hurricanes that have run through here.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“They must have good root systems,” I casually replied.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Root systems – that's what holds trees firm in the face of brutal storms and gale-force winds. Root systems – its what we all need to hold our lives firm in the face of the brutal storms and gale-force winds that besiege and beset us in life. Children need roots most of all.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We understood this intuitively when, as young, naïve kids, we decided to start our own agency focusing on permanence for youth in foster care. We named the agency, “Rootwings Ministries,” drawing upon the quote generally attributed to journalist Hodding Carter, II - "There are two things we should give our children: one is roots and the other is wings."</p>
<p> </p>
<p>All children need both roots and wings. Sounds simple. Yet so many children’s root systems have been ripped out from under them as a result of trauma. Then, when the storms of life come along they are tossed about like tumbleweed rather than holding fast like the trees in our yard.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This is especially true for children who experience out-of-home placement in foster care or juvenile justice systems. First, they often experience traumatic events in their life-before-the-system such as domestic violence, abuse, neglect or abandonment. Then, they experience the profound grief associated with being separated from their birth parents, as well as grandparents, siblings, school, friends, neighbors, church and others who are significant in their lives.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>All too often, in our culture, we are eager to fit them with wings and launch them into the world, hoping that by providing them with a few life skills, a little education and opportunities for employment, they will fly high and soar.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The good news is, often they do.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479831?profile=original"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479831?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"/></a>The question is, what happens on the windy days of life? Do they have roots that will help them weather the storms?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Children who have experienced trauma need roots in a family, in their community, in their culture and in a community of faith. Each of us can play a role in helping children develop the sturdy root systems that will serve them well in every storm life brings their way.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We <b>strengthen children’s root systems</b> when we work to ensure that every child is entitled to a safe, stable, permanent, legal family of their own – either their family of origin, kin or through adoption. We can never satisfy ourselves by saying that some children are “unadoptable” or “too old” or “too disabled” or “too competent” to need a family.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We <b>strengthen children’s root systems</b> when we welcome children who have experienced trauma into our neighborhoods and communities and never consider any child a “throw-away.” In our schools, the child who bullies may need our help and love just as much as the child who is bullied. Instead of “zero-tolerance” we need to offer help, hope and healing to all children, reaching out in a supportive way to all families.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>We strengthen children’s root systems</b> when we embrace them within our faith communities. The biblical concept of hospitality refers to loving the “stranger” and we are instructed again and again throughout both the old and new testaments to welcome the alien, the orphan, the stranger, the “least of these”. If you are part of a community of faith – have you taken an inventory lately to truthfully assess how welcoming you are to the alien, orphans and strangers in our neighborhood, community or in the global community? If not, maybe today, while you listen to the wind outside your window, it might be time to start.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>********</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
Meet Gloria Donovan ... The San Francisco Wedding Planner's Cougar!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-19:523145:BlogPost:634611
2014-07-19T14:54:33.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><i><u><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481982?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481982?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> Meet Gloria Donovan ... The San Francisco Wedding Planner's Cougar!</u></i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Six volumes of The San Francisco Wedding Planner series have been released and are available in ebook format for only 99 cents each. Don't miss out on the fun! Next week round two, the backstories of all the characters will be released, and Ruth L. Snyder suggested the…</p>
<p><b><i><u><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481982?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481982?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Meet Gloria Donovan ... The San Francisco Wedding Planner's Cougar!</u></i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Six volumes of The San Francisco Wedding Planner series have been released and are available in ebook format for only 99 cents each. Don't miss out on the fun! Next week round two, the backstories of all the characters will be released, and Ruth L. Snyder suggested the authors go on a “Blog Hop” to give the readers a sneak peek. Other authors from Helping Hands Press will also participate to introduce readers to their characters and stories as well.</p>
<p>When The San Francisco Wedding Planner series was in the planning process, each of us was asked to select the character we would most like to focus on for round two. Surprise, surprise! I chose Heather's mother, Gloria Rasmussen Donovan. We are alike in a few ways. I have a thirty-four year son who cringes when the phone rings, waiting to hear my honest opinion of his life and how to raise my granddaughters ... And let's not forget my academy award worthy guilt-trip provocations. </p>
<p>Gloria meddles in every aspect of her daughter's life (isn't that a mom's job?). Being widowed, she is trying to find herself ... Unfortunately, it's in the teen and make-up section of Nordstrom's. "Dress Young, Feel Young" is one of her mantras, the other being, "Date Young, Feel Young." Both a source of embarrassment for Heather and entertainment for her staff.</p>
<p>Close your eyes -- picture a 50+ woman in a hot pink tank top, skin-tight leopard print capris, spiked heels, and pouty, over-painted lips....and listen to “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cindy Lauper!</p>
<p><b><i><u>That's Gloria!</u></i></b></p>
What are you going to read this weekend? Looking for for Romance,maybe some Humor? Try Tracy Krauss' new release "Navigating The Neighborhood"!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-18:523145:BlogPost:634600
2014-07-18T18:17:58.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481699?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481699?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"></img></a> Lester Tibbett is back after a near death experience that has put a few things in perspective. It hasn’t stopped his friend Jed from harassing him about women or the upcoming bull riding competition. Nor has it made life any easier when it comes to dealing with his teenage sister. Just when he is at the end of his rope, he makes an unexpected discovery. Is it fate or mere…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481699?profile=original"><img width="300" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481699?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"/></a>Lester Tibbett is back after a near death experience that has put a few things in perspective. It hasn’t stopped his friend Jed from harassing him about women or the upcoming bull riding competition. Nor has it made life any easier when it comes to dealing with his teenage sister. Just when he is at the end of his rope, he makes an unexpected discovery. Is it fate or mere coincidence?</p>
<p><b>Tracy Krauss</b> is an author, playwright, artist, director, and teacher. She grew up in small town Saskatchewan and received her Bachelor of Education Degree in Saskatoon with majors in Art, English and History. She has lived in many interesting places in northern Canada, many of them north of the 60th parallel. She is currently a full time High School teacher of Art, Drama, English and History. She is currently working on several novels and stage plays, and resides with her husband in beautiful Tumbler Ridge, BC.</p>
<p><i>The Amazon Kindle link for “Navigating The Neighborhood” is</i>: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Neighbors-Navigating-Neighborhood-Tracy-Krauss-ebook/dp/B00LWS4EJ2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1405706080&sr=1-1">http://www.amazon.com/Neighbors-Navigating-Neighborhood-Tracy-Krauss-ebook/dp/B00LWS4EJ2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1405706080&sr=1-1</a></p>
<p>- <b>Website</b>: <a href="http://www.tracykrauss.com">www.tracykrauss.com</a></p>
<p>- <b>Goodreads</b>: goodreads.com/author/show/3492473.Tracy_Krauss</p>
<p>- <b><i>FB Author page</i></b>: tinyurl.com/Tracy-Krauss-Author-Fanpage</p>
<p>- <b><i>Pinterest</i></b>:pinterest.com/tracykrauss/</p>
The G-ZONE Tonight-Simulcast-6 Guests- A preview RIGHT NOW!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-17:523145:BlogPost:634965
2014-07-17T19:53:10.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<h1><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481499?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481499?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="550"></img></a> Helping Hands Press “THIRSTY THURSDAY” Party!</h1>
<p> </p>
<p><i>It is almost time</i> <i>for another “<b>THIRSTY THURSDAY”</b></i></p>
<p> What is <b><i>Helping Hands Press</i></b> “THIRSTY” for:</p>
<p><b><i><u>Your input! Your ideas! Your feedback!</u></i></b></p>
<p><i>The authors at Helping Hands Press will be ready to answer your questions, listen to your…</i></p>
<h1><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481499?profile=original"><img width="550" class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481499?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="550"/></a>Helping Hands Press “THIRSTY THURSDAY” Party!</h1>
<p> </p>
<p><i>It is almost time</i> <i>for another “<b>THIRSTY THURSDAY”</b></i></p>
<p> What is <b><i>Helping Hands Press</i></b> “THIRSTY” for:</p>
<p><b><i><u>Your input! Your ideas! Your feedback!</u></i></b></p>
<p><i>The authors at Helping Hands Press will be ready to answer your questions, listen to your thoughts, and to help you have a great experience!</i></p>
<p><b><i><u>The Party starts @ 8PM EST, we hope that you can make it!</u></i></b></p>
<p><b><i>THE LINK TO THE HELPING HANDS PRESS FACEBOOK PAGE IS:</i></b></p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HelpingHandsPress">https://www.facebook.com/HelpingHandsPress</a></p>
<p>Please listen in, call in, be part of the conversation!</p>
<p><b><i><u>Here is the link to the Broadcast</u></i></b>: <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/18/cq-scafidimarsha-hublerpatti-j-smithjames-j-griffinsheila-seiler-lagrand">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gelatisscoop/2014/07/18/cq-scafidimarsha-hublerpatti-j-smithjames-j-griffinsheila-seiler-lagrand</a></p>
Meet Gracie Allen of Michele Huey's "Fifth Wheel" series!
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-17:523145:BlogPost:634578
2014-07-17T17:04:52.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><b><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480521?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480521?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"></img></a> SUMMER READING BLOG TOUR, DAY 4: MEET GRACIE ALLEN OF MICHELE HUEY’S <i>FIFTH WHEEL</i> series</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Today you get to meet Gracie, the feisty neatnik of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Wheel-1-Gracies-Gift-ebook/dp/B00KXIJ730/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405452710&sr=8-2&keywords=Michele+Huey"><i>Fifth Wheel</i></a> series who agrees to sell…</p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480521?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997480521?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>SUMMER READING BLOG TOUR, DAY 4: MEET GRACIE ALLEN OF MICHELE HUEY’S <i>FIFTH WHEEL</i> series</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Today you get to meet Gracie, the feisty neatnik of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Wheel-1-Gracies-Gift-ebook/dp/B00KXIJ730/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405452710&sr=8-2&keywords=Michele+Huey"><i>Fifth Wheel</i></a> series who agrees to sell her home so her hubby's dream of traveling the country in a fifth wheel could come true.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Each story in the series (which will be written by various authors, handpicked by Yours Truly) will take Gracie and Jim to a different part of the country, where they will meet up with various characters in crisis. The first story, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Wheel-1-Gracies-Gift-ebook/dp/B00KXIJ730/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405452710&sr=8-2&keywords=Michele+Huey">"Gracie's Gift,"</a> came out last month (see Book Description below). The second story, "Ellie's Escape," should be out by the end of the month.</p>
<p>But let's get to know Gracie a little better.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Following is the original interview I conducted with Gracie before I began plotting the series and writing the first story. (Yes, I interview my main characters before I begin writing.)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR Gracie Allen</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>NAME</b>: Gracie Allen</p>
<p><b>ADDRESS</b>: rural western PA</p>
<p><b>AGE</b>: 65</p>
<p><b>FAMILY INFORMATION:</b></p>
<p> <b>Spouse</b>: Jim, retired coal miner</p>
<p> <b>Children</b>: James III (Trey), Gracelyn (Lyn), Gabrielle (Gabby), Jackson (Jack) </p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Background:</b></p>
<p>*<b>Parents</b> (maiden name Satkowski) – father, steel mill worker, carpentry; mother, homemaker (took in ironing and sewing)</p>
<p>*<b>Siblings</b>: PJ (younger brother), younger sister, Veronica, who died from leukemia when she was in high school</p>
<p>*<b>Born and raised where</b>: southwestern PA </p>
<p>*<b>Early influences</b>: family, school, church, books, esp. illustrated books, teacher who encouraged my art</p>
<p>*<b>Education</b>: high school, beauty school</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479873?profile=original"><img width="350" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479873?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350"/></a>Growing up, what were your dreams?</b> To become an illustrator of children’s books, but my parents couldn’t afford college or art school, so I worked as a waitress to pay for beauty school</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Current position</b>: homemaker (Well, I was until Jim wanted to sell the house. Now I'm a camper-keeper.)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Most satisfying aspect of work</b>: I love being home, in my own “queendom,” I can set my own schedule and am free to watch the grandchildren. I have time to enjoy gardening, birdwatching, keeping my house clean. (That is, until . . . well, you know . . . )</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Biggest challenge</b>: Jim – now that he’s retired he’s always underfoot. Now that we've sold the house, my biggest challenge is to adjust to life on the road. (And not kill Jim.)</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>In one sentence, what is your philosophy of life/guiding principal?</b> Family first.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Who/what encouraged, motivated, inspired you?</b> Aunt Abby (my godmother), Mrs. Gabriel (my high school art teacher), my lifelong BFF Sherry</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Who do you most admire and why?</b> Aunt Abby – she went through hard times and came through; her kindness and compassion. My husband, Jim. He worked to provide for the family so I could be a stay-at-home mom, then when the kids were gone, continued to work past retirement age (65) so I could have medical insurance. He was so ready to retire at 65.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What qualities do you admire in others?</b> Honesty, work ethic, putting family first</p>
<p><b><br/> What is your biggest unfulfilled dream?</b> To become an artist, a children’s book illustrator</p>
<p><b><br/> What do you want to be remembered for?</b> That I put my family first. You shall know them by their fruits. My family is my fruit.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479882?profile=original"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997479882?profile=original" width="350"/></a>If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?</b> I wouldn’t be so OCD (anal) about a perfect house and doing everything just right.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What irritates/annoys you?</b> People who don’t keep their word, paper crinkling, clutter, dust, a dirty sink</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>How would you describe yourself?</b> Kind, compassionate, introverted, homebody</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Hobbies, interests:</b> gardening, canning, crocheting, cooking and baking, reading</p>
<p><b><br/> What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?</b> My children</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What do you feel you’ve left undone?</b> My own dreams</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Do you have any regrets?</b> Yes, I didn’t go to art school</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What is your greatest fear?</b> Losing Jim, something bad happening to any of my loved ones, losing my home</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>What are your feelings as you close this chapter on your life?</b> Uncertainty, instability, anxiety, fear</p>
<p><b><br/> What Scripture best describes your approach to your life?</b> Proverbs 31:10–31 The mother is the heart of the home.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>“Gracie’s Gift” (<i>Fifth Wheel, Vol. 1) </i></b></p>
<p>Gracie Allen is content with her life as a housewife. Her children and grandchildren are nearby. She has the freedom to set her own schedule, keep a spotless house, tend her flowerbeds, and make time for her art projects. But when her newly retired husband announces he wants to put their home up for sale to buy a fifth wheel so they can spend their retirement years traveling, her secure, snug little world is turned upside-down. She’s confronted with more than having learn to live with him 24/7 in “a tin can on wheels.” If she wants her forty-five-year marriage to survive, she has to decide which she loves more: the things that make her who she is—or the man who provided them.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><i>A writer with a passion for teaching and speaking,</i> <a href="http://michelethuey.com/"><i>Michele Huey</i></a> <i>writes an award-winning weekly newspaper column and mentors budding writers. She’s an avid (sometimes rabid) Pirates fan and grandmother; loves baseball, Italian food, and hiking; and makes the best homemade pizza around. Michele and her husband, Dean, live in western Pennsylvania and have three grown children and five grandchildren.</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fifth-Wheel-1-Gracies-Gift-ebook/dp/B00KXIJ730/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405452710&sr=8-2&keywords=Michele+Huey">Click here to download your copy of "Gracie's Gift" <i>(Fifth Wheel, Vol. 1</i>). (Only $.99!)</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="gI"><span> </span></span></p>
A More Excellent Life by Alan Lester
tag:thebookmarketingnetwork.com,2014-07-17:523145:BlogPost:634959
2014-07-17T11:59:17.000Z
Giovanni Gelati
http://thebookmarketingnetwork.com/profile/GiovanniGelati
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"></img></a> A More Excellent Life by Alan Lester</p>
<p>“Won't you please take a picture of this?”</p>
<p>I looked up to see Charleen holding the white gerbera flower she had picked at the flower farm the previous day. High up on the long stalk of the flower, Randall, our pet chameleon, had clamped himself with his prickly claws. Half-raising the camera, I lowered it again with a smile…</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=original"><img width="300" class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997481993?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"/></a>A More Excellent Life by Alan Lester</p>
<p>“Won't you please take a picture of this?”</p>
<p>I looked up to see Charleen holding the white gerbera flower she had picked at the flower farm the previous day. High up on the long stalk of the flower, Randall, our pet chameleon, had clamped himself with his prickly claws. Half-raising the camera, I lowered it again with a smile and remarked, “How can I take a picture of a flower without something beautiful in the background?” And so the cover of Hurting in Hope was etched into digital memory.</p>
<p>The more I consider this picture, the more appropriately it frames the content of this book. It should be obvious that the three main features of this picture have at least one commonality: they have all, by now, experienced death. The flower surprised us with its longevity, yet it was the first to wither, fade and die. A few months later, Randall, the chameleon, after living with us for almost two years, suddenly became unwell and succumbed to his malady. Those two deaths were quite expected within their respective time-frames, but Charleen, I had certainly not anticipated her death quite as abrupt or soon.</p>
<p>There are other commonalities. Each of them served as expressions of the goodness of God. Beautiful evidences of love, straight from His masterful hands. They all share the commonality of engaging loveliness. All three bring a smile to the face and joy to the heart, stirring worship for God, their Maker. A thoughtful eye would find more commonalities for sure, but with this final observation I will relent: their deaths show that all three are temporary. Their lifespans are severely limited and there is nothing that can be done about it.</p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482378?profile=original"><img width="300" class="align-right" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2997482378?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="300"/></a>Having noticed these commonalities, one glaring dissimilarity begs attention. Only one is a living soul. Only one will live forever. Only one, though dead to this world, will never die. There is a “picture” similar to this in James 1:10-11, except that in James' picture we see a rich man and a flower, possibly growing in a grassy field. Both have the quality of life and admirable features—riches and beauty. Yet both will die. The man, however, will continue to live forever, reaping the rewards of his legal standing before God and his lifestyle.</p>
<p>In sorrow, it is so easy to become consumed by the loss of a person you dearly love, even to the point that you fail to notice your own face in the picture, surrounded by other dying features. The day is coming when others will look at my picture and remember the days of my life in this world. The same is true for you.</p>
<p>The colour-shifting chameleon in this image draws the careful thinker to consider this sharp change. Even though the person whose soul has been purchased by Christ will die, he will also never die (John 11:25-26). He will exchange this life for a more excellent life; a quality of life that gushes and cascades wonderfully for ever and ever. (John 4:13-14)</p>