Monthly Archives: September 2022

Of All Faiths & None by Andrew Tweeddale (Book Spotlight)

In the autumn of 1910 the famous architect, Edwin Lutyens, receives a letter from Sir Julius Drewe for the commission of a castle on Dartmoor – Castle Drogo. The design for the castle focusses on both the past and the present and reflects Britain, which at that moment is in a state of flux. Lutyens’ daughter, Celia, becomes enamoured with the project dreaming of chivalry and heroism. The following year Lutyens and his family are invited to a stone laying ceremony at Castle Drogo. Celia meets Sir Julius’ children: Adrian, Christian and Basil. Adrian has an unbending sense of duty and honour and is seen as a hero by Celia when he rescues a farmer from a fire.

The novel moves to 1914, and the start of the Great War. Christian Drewe returns from Austria where he has been working as an artist. He has reservations about joining up, unconvinced that the war was either necessary or right. He meets a nurse, Rose Braithwaite, when he is stuck at a railway station by fog. They subsequently meet again when Rose invites Christian to a party she is having for her birthday. Despite them being of different classes, there is a mutual attraction and during the evening they kiss. However, Rose is engaged and a fight breaks out between Rose’s fiancé, who arrives much later, and Christian. Both Rose and Christian decide never to see each other again. Christian’s moral conflict about enlisting comes to a head when he is handed a white feather – the sign of a coward. Eighteen months later, during the war, Christian is injured and is treated by Rose at a hospital on the front line. Both realise their mistake of following their heads rather than their hearts. Christian is sent back to a rehabilitation hospital in England where Celia is now working.

Adrian, when on leave, visits Christian and again meets Celia. The relationship is now one of equals. Celia, a headstrong young woman, decides that she must try and develop the relationship or risk losing Adrian. Adrian is torn between his desire for Celia and his need to protect his family, who are now having financial problems. The story moves from the battlefields of Flanders to Castle Drogo, where the characters are reunited for brief periods. Faith and love are stretched to their limits as each character is affected by the relentless brutality of the war. Of All Faiths & None is the story of a lost generation. It is a novel that focuses on the relationships of the characters until those relationships are shattered. It is a coming-of-age tale and a social commentary on the tragedy of a needless war.

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Chapters1 to 3 (click on the Imprint Body link below for sample chapters)

Imprint Body

 

 

From the author… “Of All Faiths & None” 

1. Has received a 4 star review from Reedsy:
 Reviewed by Jacquelynn Kennedy

2. Has been entered for the Best Indie Book Award.

3. Has been nominated for the Outstanding Creator Awards – Category: Books.

4. Has been entered in the Paris Book Festival

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Meet the Author

Writer, lawyer and chef. Andrew has written books on law and engineering contracts. In 2004 he started writing his debut novel Of All Faiths & None, which took eighteen years to complete. It is the first book in a series about the Drewe and Lutyens families throughout the 20th century.

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Hollow: A Love Like A Life by Jazalyn (Book Review)

A ghost spirit of dark’s universe falls in love with a ghost spirit of light’s universe, and while They cannot meet, for They wander around separate realms and spacetimes, They live Their love through a secret and sacred interaction.

They are light years APART.

But there is INVISIBLE possession.

A precious NEED bridges the range.

A SECRET LANGUAGE.

A SACRED ENERGY.

A distant BOND is created.

An EVOLUTION of the SOULS.

Will they ever MEET for REAL?

And in what FORM?

A supernatural paranormal romance poetic novel of mystical and spiritual time travel, epitome of confessional metaphysical and existential love that is seen in space opera.

I prefer the dark
And often I cry
But is it so sad?
You prefer the light
And you smile
But are you happy?

Our eyes see
Different things
But our thoughts
Are aligned
And I’m wondering
Why I love you
When we can’t live
The same life

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(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)

Hollow: A Love Like A Life consists of about eighty poems dealing with love, jealousy, sadness, paranoia, self-doubt, and obsession. 

Some people believe there is only one person for them. Their self-worth hinges on that person’s love and acceptance. They think if this person can’t or won’t love them in return, then no one will. (Example: “If They Can’t Love Me”) You should not define yourself or your worth based on if your “soul mate” loves you in return. That’s unhealthy. 

Hollow: A Love Like A Life is about two ghostly spirits: one living in the light’s universe and one residing in the dark universe. You might have noticed I didn’t use “living” when I mentioned the spirit in the dark universe. I didn’t because they weren’t living. They were merely residing, hoping, obsessing over light’s love, if it’s real or not. 

When I read poem after poem, I had a mental image of someone plucking petals off a flower and, after each pluck saying, “They love me. They love me not.” The dark spirit questioned light’s love time and again. They saw the light giving attention to others and became jealous. (Example – “After Loving You”) They wanted to ask if it was all in their head but were afraid of the answer. This scenario will resonate with many readers. 

A common theme throughout the book is obsession. “Haunted” even stated they will “make you love me.” 

“Back to Your Thoughts” had a most unsettling line that would be cause for alarm if this was discussing real people and not spirits: “My feelings for you order me to obey to your will.” 

The final line of “Irreparably” is something that I agree with, and you, the review reader, will probably agree with too. “Don’t play with my feelings.” No one wants toyed with, so this ender was perfect. Either you love someone, or you don’t. Be honest, so no one’s heart is left in a state of limbo. 

I’m scoring this a three. I think others will relate to the poetry far better than I do, so I am giving it a point for its relatability. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:

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About the Author

With 150,000+ engagements and 20,000+ followers that grow more and more across 7 social media platforms, Jazalyn is among the most-promising newcomers authors-poets.

Her books have sold in 4 Continents and have been featured on best-seller category-based lists on Amazon US, Amazon UK and Amazon AU. Soon she will expand in every corner of the Earth.

Jazalyn attracts all cultures and traditions with an audience from all walks and stages of life as a consequence of the universal atmosphere that encircles her themes.

Her innovative and versatile writing style stemming from abstraction and absurdness captivates mystery and suspense with words swimming in surrealism and magical realism.

Her imaginative and inventive narration unites the philosophical with the psychological and the scientific elements of both fantasy and fiction that create and solve riddles and puzzles.

In what results as a contemporary genre of cinematic (epic) poetry in slice of life-vignette expression which provokes thinking and eyes new horizons.

Her latest books vViIrRuUsS, Rose, Hollow signify Jazalyn’s transition towards literary magnificence.

 

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When Your Feet Hit the Street, You Gotta Look Around! by Gabriella Fantoccini (Book Review)

Kids should look both ways before crossing the street, but what about when they are actually in the street?

When my daughter was little, she would make a big show out of looking both ways BEFORE crossing the street, but when she was actually in the street, she completely zoned out.

I was concerned that somehow she might wind up in the street one day when I wasn’t around, so I came up with the memory aid, “When Your Feet Hit the Street, You Gotta Look Around!”

It worked!

Whenever her feet were in the street, she was aware that she had to keep looking around until she safely reached the sidewalk.

“When Your Feet Hit the Street, You Gotta Look Around!” is a memory aid turned into a SUPER FUN children’s book based on a children’s song I also wrote.

A free download of the song is included with the book.

Have fun singing along with your little ones as you turn the pages, reminding them to look left, look right, look all around!

You can listen to the song and see the lyrics in a video at…

https://www.fantoccinibooks.com/video

 
 
 
 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
 
“When Your Feet Hit the Street, You Gotta Look Around!” reinvents the vital life lesson “Look both ways before crossing the street” in a fun way with animal characters to educate and entertain young listeners/readers. Using this phrase on repeat – “When your feet hit the street, you gotta look around.” – in conjunction with darling illustrations created by Geraldine Nunez, kids will learn the proper way to cross a street. 

Since children have personal phones at an early age, this book points out not to text or stare at your cell when your feet step off the curb. It’s good practice not to text and walk in general. Head up is what I tell my kiddos all the time. 

The story also suggests holding an adult’s hand when stepping off the curb and crossing a street. It’s precisely how my family crosses the road. 

“When Your Feet Hit the Street, You Gotta Look Around!” is a memory aid turned into a SUPER FUN children’s book based on a children’s song Gabriella Fantoccini wrote. Great news – you’ll receive a FREE MP3 Download of the song with every purchase. What a marvelous gift from the author! Now, if you’re wondering if you’re following the right beat, guess no further. Be ready for an earworm because I think you and your family will sing this song a lot! Oh, I’d like to note the lyrics are in the back of the book. 

Amazon’s recommended reading age for When Your Feet Hit the Street, You Gotta Look Around! is 3 – 8 years (grade level: preschool – 3); however, I think toddlers might enjoy the catchy tune. Let’s start teaching them street safety at an early age! 

I will recommend this book to my school’s librarian and fellow elementary school parents. It’s a book that should be read often! 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤

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Meet the Author

Hello!

When my daughter was little, she would make a big show of looking both ways BEFORE crossing the street, BUT when she was actually crossing in the street, she completely zoned out.

I was concerned that somehow she might wind up in the street by herself one day, so I came up with the memory aid, “When Your Feet Hit the Street, You Gotta Look Around!”

It worked! She remembered!

One day, I pulled out my guitar and the phrase became a song, and then eventually the song became this children’s book.

I hope you and your little one(s) stay safe and enjoy the book and the FREE MP3 song download.

And please check out my website at…

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Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

 

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Hector and Heloise in Paris by R. Janet Walraven (Book Review)

Sibling hedgehogs, Hector and Heloise, set out on a great adventure to explore the largest and most popular museum in the world, the Louvre in Paris, France. Their Uncle Ken has told them all about the amazing works of art ̶ paintings, sculptures, artifacts, beautiful architecture, and even mummies. Will hedgehogs be allowed in the museum? What is in that large package Hector is sneaking into the Louvre? Come along with Hector and Heloise on this miraculous adventure where you will discover their big secret.

Included are Internet links for virtual tours of the Louvre.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

“Throughout the book, the focus is on five specific, famous art pieces by various artists. With each piece, a link is shared for readers to see the art as it appears in the Louvre. At the back of the book are links especially for children to take a virtual tour through the museum and links to explain the history and architecture of these famous buildings. Included in the back is a glossary of terms used in the story.” – Janet Walraven, Prologue.

The hedgehogs riding on an escalator were cute. Heloise’s red hair-bow was pretty, and Hector’s suit, red bowtie, and glasses will make you smile. 

Heloise and Hector were on a great trip to see the Louvre in Paris, France. Oh, how I wish to go there one day. To see famous works of art in person would be an unforgettable experience. 

I love the author doesn’t just state, “Hey, there’s The Mona Lisa.” No, the author gives valuable information regarding the masterpiece. The Great Sphinx of Tanis (granite sculpture of a sphinx) would be a wonderful sight to behold. If you’re unfamiliar with it, you should look it up! 

There were links provided in my ARC (pdf). I could not access them, but I’m sure that won’t be the case when Hector and Heloise in Paris is viewed on a kindle. You’ll have to manually type the URL on your phone, tablet, or desktop for print readers. 

There’s so much to see in the Louvre; two adorable hedgehogs give you a tiny glimpse of the historical treasures you’ll discover there. 

Hector and Heloise in Paris by R. Janet Walraven give readers plenty of items to look up for themselves or a research project. It’s advertised for ages 4-12, and I believe young people in that age group can find enjoyment in the story in different ways. I also think adults reading the book can learn a thing or two, such as I learned about the famous staircase called The Daru.

The hedgehogs came to the Louvre will a specific purpose in mind. Rest assured, they completed their mission! Barb Ruble, your illustrations were quite lovely. I loved your “Beautiful Watercolor” and “Dürer with Hedgehog.” Plus, we can’t forget to mention (again) how darling the hedgehogs looked. 

Review submitted to Reedsy on 8/20/22.

#KamsPlace

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤

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Meet the Author

R. Janet Walraven, an award-winning writer, has written historical romance, teacher-mentor non-fiction, children’s book, and historical fiction. After living all over the USA, she now resides in New Mexico with her companion, Mal, who is her best critic. She loves to read, write, garden and travel.

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The Sweet Friendship by Lisa R. Neuder (Book Review)


An idealistic, bright-eyed, lop-eared bunny (Baked Bean) is seeking the friendship and company of another bunny. But to her dismay, her new interest (Snowshoe) brings both joy and heartache. Will she be able to overcome her struggles with her new friend?

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Before the first chapter, readers will meet all of Baked Bean’s friends through pictures. My favorite image was of Fancy Wat. I mean, you don’t see a mouse wearing a top hat every day. 

Chapters 1-3 gave insight into each friend’s personality and how each one was there for Baked Bean. For example, Biscuit has Snoopy-like ears and short legs but moves like lightning when he runs. Sometimes, his tongue would hang slightly out of his mouth when he sprinted across the field. 

Chapters 4-17 focused on the actual story with plot, climax, and resolution. Baked Bean was longing for a bunny friend. Someone who does the things she does and eats the food she eats. Her wishes came true when she met Snowshoe. They laughed, ate grass, drank water, and explored the countryside together. 

One day, Snowshoe did not arrive to play as promised, and poor Baked Bean’s heart was crushed. When Snowshoe came days later, he acted like it was no big deal. These chapters will open doors for teachers and parents to discuss if listeners ever had someone break a promise and how they felt when it happened. It’ll give the reader the opportunity to encourage children to try their best not to break promises because a broken promise can make a person sad, just like Baked Bean in the story. 

As the story progressed, Snowshoe’s callous behavior worsened, and Baked Bean started feeling worse and worse. Baked Bean begun to feel insecure and question everything about herself. Again, this is another excellent time to discuss how this section makes the listener feel. Do they agree with how Snowshoe treats Baked Bean, and what’s the proper way to treat a friend?

The Sweet Friendship by Lisa Robin teaches children to value their friendships. Treat others how you want to be treated! 

Snowshoe might’ve not been the picture-perfect friend, but Baked Bean met somebunny who was superb! (FYI: Somebunny was written that way on purpose.) 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤

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Meet the Author

Lisa R. Neuder is a debut children’s author from Rockville, Maryland (US). She is a member of The Writers Guild and The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She is an organizer of a creative writing group. She is starting an MFA program in the Fall 2022.

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