Tuesday, January 10, 2023

Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea Book Tour by June Foster & Rob Scheer, Author's Q & A, Review

 

 


Book Details:

Book Title:  Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea! by June Foster and Rob Scheer
Category:  Children's Fiction (ages 3 to 7), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's Book
Publisher:  Hubble & Hattie
Release date:   August 23, 2022
Content Rating:  G.  The book is designed for children between 3-7 years of age.
Book Description:

Adventurous friends Lulu and Malek make fantastic discoveries, take care of our planet, and meet new friends as they explore the wonders of the world under the sea. With vibrant illustrations and endearing characters, this fun-to-read rhyming book is sure to be a children's favorite that they will want to read over and over again! Add this fun-filled and inspiring book to your home or class library! It will be enjoyed by children who love adventure, a good laugh, and want to learn more about the sea and conservation.
Buy the Book:
Amazon B&N ~ BAM
Indigo AbeBooks IndieBound
add to Goodreads
Meet the Authors:

Just a bit about me. I live in Arizona, but for most of the year, I travel across our beautiful earth as a deckhand and yoga instructor in the yachting industry. I love the serenity of the sea, exploring treasured caves, hiking through lush green forests, immersing myself in different cultures, and meeting new friends. I recently launched an online retail store (www.yachtieinspired.com) that offers conservation and yachtie inspired designs through my Sea Our Love and Silent Whispers Collections. You can also purchase a Personalized Signed Copy of my books on my online store, or please visit junenfoster.com to learn more!

My co-author, Rob Scheer and I have completed two beautifully illustrated, heartfelt children's books. Rob is the Founder and CEO of Comfort Cases. Since 2013, Comfort Cases set out on a mission to eliminate the use of trash bags and provide children entering the foster system with brand new essential and comfort items. To date, Comfort Cases has positively impacted over 110,000 children, and has recently opened a chapter in the United Kingdom. For each book purchased of Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea, we will donate one book to Comfort Cases.

connect with the authors: website twitter facebook instagram instagram ~ goodreads


AUTHORS Q & A 

1.     In your book you make a reference to pollution on the beach and nets in the ocean, how did you come up with this idea?

 

JUNE:  Having worked in the yachting industry, I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of pollution and trash, such as plastics, spilled oil and netting. While the ocean covers 70% of the Earth and holds 80% of all life, it faces overkilling of fish, species extinctions, warm and acidic waters, and coastal erosion. Our story includes Lulu and Malek’s stewardship by picking up trash along the coastline, and saving a small fish entangled with a net—a small, yet gentle way of introducing this subject to young children.

 

ROB: Well, I have to give credit to my co-author, June. She’s worked in the yachting industry for years, so it came naturally. But beach and ocean pollution is often on my mind, as my family loves going to the beaches near where we live on the Maryland shore. It’s always disappointing to see trash on the beach or in the water. Writing this book with June is a great way for us to raise awareness about what can be done to solve this problem.

 

2.     What is your next project?

JUNE & ROB:  Rob and I have completed a second children’s illustration book, full of love and hope. We will begin looking for a publisher in Q1. Additionally, I (June) have completed a short story near and dear to my heart that I hope to publish in 2023. And Rob hopes to have a new addition of his memoir coming out this year.

3.     Do you have another profession besides writing?

ROB: Oh yes. I am the founder of Comfort Cases, an international non-profit organization that promotes hope and dignity to youth in foster care. When I was 18 and “aged out” of foster care, my foster parents handed me a black trash bag with my belongings in it. Decades later, when our first beautiful children came to us through foster care, I was appalled that they too had their belongings stuffed into that same black trash bag. How could that be?  So, my husband and I founded Comfort Cares to solve that problem. Since then, we have now given away more than 200,000 Comfort Cases, backpacks filled with new essential items for youth in foster care of all ages - items would include new pajamas, a new blanket, an age-appropriate hygiene kit (including a new toothbrush, soap, shampoo, etc.), and a “stuffy”. We’ve given these away to youth in every state in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom.

 

JUNE:  For eight months of the year, I work as a Chief Stewardess or Deckhand in the yachting industry. I’m able to save enough money to allow me four months on land to complete and publish my stories that I work on throughout the year.

 

4.     Where do you get inspiration for your stories?

ROB: My children and all youth in foster care inspire me in everything I do. Don’t we all want our children to have better lives than the ones we live?

JUNE:  For me, inspiration comes in many forms, and normally it bubbles to the surface when I least expect it. One time, I came across a quote that touched me to the core. It inspired me to write a short story that will be part of a larger collection. Another example was when a golden maple leaf fell into my hands during a hike in Ohio. This led to my first published novel. In other cases, it could be a series of related news reports that inspire. In the case of Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea, it was Rob’s book, A Forever Family: Fostering Change One Child at a Time. After reading his heart wrenching, yet inspirational story, and learning more about Rob and Comfort Cases, I was inspired to collaborate with Rob to write two children’s books.

5.     When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

ROB:   I never knew that I wanted to be an author, but I’ve always loved books. As a youth growing up in foster care, books were always a huge comfort to me. They were an escape from my reality that I really needed. As the father of five children, all who were in foster care, I try to pass my love of books on to them. I always have a stack of books by my nightstand as well as in my office. They are easily recognizable, as I’m always sticking little yellow “post-its” in them to track passages I find memorable and that I want to revisit. When I was asked to write my memoir, Forever Family: Fostering Change One Child at a Time, I said: “But I don’t even know the difference between ‘there,’ “their’ and ‘they’re’!” Now I know that writing is just as important to me as reading.

JUNE:   I’ve always loved storytelling, but it wasn’t until a few years ago that I pursued publishing. There were a series of memorable moments that led me in this direction. During college, I enrolled in many global sociology courses. For the first time in my life, I read about the multitudes of international social crises. The material introduced me to the vast inequalities, rights violations, and perpetual intergenerational cycles of poverty. Children, in general, have always pulled at my heartstrings, so reading about their suffering in particular drove me to dig deeper into their day to day lives and circumstances. As my worldview changed, and my senses enlightened, I knew where I needed to focus; however, I was uncertain on how I could have influence. After graduating, I enrolled in Film Production at Grand Canyon University. I was in the middle of a screenwriting course when my Papa passed away. I collapsed. He was my everything—I loved him deeply and miss him every day. A few months later, I opened my draft screenplay and read it with fresh eyes. I felt my characters, plot, setting . . . well everything lacked substance and depth. I was determined to bring my story to life. It was at that moment, I guess you could say, that I became an author and soon after, published The Girl and the Golden Leaf. A few years later, I was honored to meet Rob, and thrilled to have written two children’s illustration books with him!


MY THOUGHTS ON THE BOOK

Lulu & Malek Sail Off to Sea is an enduring story that will instill in our children the habits of caring for people, our planet, and wildlife. It's written in a simple easy to understand style in rhyme.

The characters are adventurous and love to discover new things, helpful in times of trouble, and caring. All the attributes we hope our children have. The characters are well-drawn in vibrant colors that will grasp your children's attention and bring joy to them.

It's a book children will enjoy over and over again and would make an excellent addition to any child's library.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and willingly choose to review it. All opinions are my own.
Julie


Enter the Giveaway:
Lulu and Malek Sail Off to Sea! Book Tour Giveaway




Tuesday, January 3, 2023

New Release- Critical Threat (Extreme Measures #3) by Lynette Eason

 




FBI Special Agent Grace Billingsley tracks serial killers, using her skills as a psychiatrist and behavioral analyst to get dangerous people off the street and safely behind bars. But prison psychiatrist Sam Monroe knows that just because a killer is incarcerated doesn't mean they're not a threat. His own father, Peter, is a serial killer--in prison but certainly not out of Sam's life, as much as he wishes he was.

When bodies start showing up with Peter's MO, Sam and Grace are both called in to consult. They've met before--and though Grace thought they'd made a real connection, Sam ghosted her. They'll have to get past the awkwardness and mistrust to solve this case--especially because it's about to get personal.

USA Today bestselling author Lynette Eason doesn't give you time to catch your breath in this breakneck race to stop a serial killer.


Purchase on Amazon


MY REVIEW

Critical Threat is an on-the-edge-of-your-seat non-stop action suspense at its best. It is intriguing from beginning to end. The serial killer's victims' descriptions were handled in such a way as to eliminate a lot of gore and focused more on the cat-and-mouse game to catch the killer.

The characters were well-developed and my favorites were Grace and Eleni, who both showed extreme strength and cunning. The serial killers' identity played out well and the ending wrapped things up nicely. A well-written story, easy to read, and filled with loads of excitement. Highly recommended.

I received an ARC from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Thanks for Reading,

Julie

Monday, January 2, 2023

New Release- Time of Enduring Love (Pacific Cove Legacy Series Book 3 ) by J.E. Grace



Time of Enduring Love  

Book 3 of the Pacific Cove Legacy Series

Christian Romance/Ranch Life

Available in Ebook & Paperback

FREE on Amazon Jan 3rd-7th

Description

 Continuing after the wedding of Peter and Amanda, the Saunders family discovers more joy and sorrows in store for them.


A hired ranch hand isn't who he appears to be. But what secret is he hiding? Will the Saunders family be able to discover it in time?

When a new rancher moves into the area, problems arise for Naomi and Jason. Can their marriage withstand it, and their faith pulls them through unscathed. Only God knows for sure.


Ebook


Paperback



OTHER BOOKS in the SERIES

















Book 1-Time of Haunted Beginnings  99c


Book 2- Time for Second Chances


Thursday, December 29, 2022

New Release- "Because God Made Me I am Special" by Crystal Mary Lindsey




Children need to feel confident and content within themselves, whether male or female.


With that confidence, they are able to develop relationships and strengthen their self-esteem through play while developing new skills daily. Praising a child's effects along the way creates a positive environment for them to learn and grow at their own pace.


The world can be confusing for children, especially now with teachings in schools and the world questioning gender.


As Christians, we know that God makes no mistakes and we are created for a specific role as male or female.


Both gender roles are unique and put together in unity to procreate.


This story is simple in context and written to help little ones understand and accept who they are.

Prayerfully as they read or have the story read to them, they will find joy in their gender.

Children thrive when they feel safe and secure to grow without uncertainty or fear.

They need to be protected and understood by family, friends, and teachers who listen to them with care and love.




To Purchase on Amazon




About the Author
Crystal Mary Lindsey is a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and retired health professional of many years.
She desires to see children reach their full potential in self-confidence and awareness of who they are with acceptance of their own unique abilities.
As they read this story, it is her desire they understand with a happy heart God's perfect plan and love for their life.

Why I wrote the book

My grandson, seven years old, stood still in my lounge room and earnestly said,
"I wish I was a girl."

"Why would you want to be a girl?" I asked him, surprised.

"Girls have more fun, and everyone is a girl in our house except me."

"Aww, honey, come here. I love you just as you are, and when you grow up, you will have strong muscles, and girls will ask you to help them with what they can't do. Did you know that?"


He shook his head, still looking at me sadly and somewhat confused, but he didn't want to talk about it anymore.

The world can be confusing for children, especially now —teachings in schools and the world question gender. As Christians, we know that God makes no mistakes and we are created for a specific male or female role. Both gender roles are unique and put together in unity to procreate.


This story is simple in context and written to help little ones understand and accept who they are. Prayerfully as they read or have the story read to them, they will find joy in their gender.


Children thrive when they feel safe and secure to grow without uncertainty or fear. They need to be protected and understood by family, friends, and teachers who listen to them with care and love.


Proverbs 22:6. "Train up a child the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it."  

 

 


 


 

 

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

New Release- The Secret Society of Salzburg by Renee Ryan



 From the author of The Widows of Champagne, and inspired by true events, comes a gripping and heartwrenching story of two very different women united to bring light to the darkest days of World War II.

 
London, 1933
 



At first glance, Austrian opera singer Elsa Mayer-Braun has little in common with the young English typist she encounters on tour. Yet she and Hattie Featherstone forge an instant connection—and strike a dangerous alliance. Using their friendship as a cover, they form a secret society with a daring goal: to rescue as many Jews as possible from Nazi persecution.
 
Though the war’s outbreak threatens Elsa and Hattie’s network, their efforts attract the covert attention of the British government, offering more opportunities to thwart the Germans. But Elsa’s growing fame as Hitler’s favorite opera singer, coupled with her secret Jewish ancestry, makes her both a weapon and a target—until her future, too, hangs in the balance.
 
From the glamorous stages of Covent Garden and Salzburg to the horrors of Bergen-Belsen,  two ordinary women swept up by the tide of war discover an extraordinary friendship—and the courage to save countless lives.



My Thoughts on the Book

The Secret Society of Salzburg is the first novel I've read by this author. It captivated me and it will not be the last.

The storyline gripped my heart, the characters were mesmerizing and inspirational, and the setting or backdrops pushed me into a time of great hardship and atrocities of Hitler's war.

There were lots of tense moments, and heart-breaking moments of betrayal, yet some outstanding success and inspiration. The main character Elsa was beyond amazing. She was strong and devoted to the arts, but also the cause. Hattie, an artist depicting the opera singer in her art was entertaining to read about. Hattie was a devoted fan of Elsa, but also a strong ally in the cause to help the Jews.

Keep the tissues handy, but this book will also make you smile with pride at Elsa, Hattie, Vera, Oliver, and Melvina's accomplishments. Highly recommended.

I received an ARC from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.
Julie



Monday, December 26, 2022

New Release by Dora Hiers- "A Heart's Song-Canderhart Dynasty Book 3

 


Now that the legacy of Canderhart Racing is settled, Dustin "Dusty" Canderhart needs to crank out the words to make the contracted deadline for his next action adventure romance book. But it appears as though his muse has abandoned him. Or rather, his pseudonym Sage Rockford. There's a lot riding on this book. He's not worried about the advance. It's more about proving to his father that writing is a viable profession just as much as car racing.

On the run from a stalker, singer/songwriter Oakley Mead retreats to her hometown of Hawley Creek, hoping to keep a low profile and not attract any attention. But that hope incinerates when she runs into her high school sweetheart, Dusty Canderhart, and the town's most eligible bachelor insists on keeping her safe. Oakley doesn't want or need Dusty acting like one of his fictional heroes. All her life, starting with her father, men have betrayed her, and romance belongs in his books, not in real life.

Will Dusty convince Oakley that she can trust him not to hurt her and that romance isn't just reserved for fiction and songs? Can he show her that they belong together? Will Oakley feel safe enough in Hawley Creek, in Dusty's arms, to stop running? Can she trust the new song taking up residence in her heart? Lyrics of truth, faith, hope and love…

https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-Song-Christian-Romance-Canderhart-ebook/dp/B0BJ7ZR178


My Review

Dusty Canderhart is trying to finish his novel but decides the coffee shop is too busy. On his way out, he can't believe the woman he literally runs into is non-other than Oakley. He discovers he still has feelings for her.

This installment is Dusty's and Oakley's story. There are some tense moments and Dusty is worried about her safety.  The characters of Dusty and Oakley are very relatable and I enjoyed following their journey. Another great Canderhart read that didn't disappoint.  A short story but one that packed a punch. Highly recommended.

I received an ARC from the author and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Julie


Friday, December 23, 2022

FREE Dec. 24th thru Dec. 28th on Amazon- New Release - "To Rescue My Love" by J.E. Grace

 



Title: To Rescue My Love: A Christmas Surprise

Christian Historical Western Romance

Published:  December 20, 2022

FREE Dec. 24th thru Dec. 28th


Description:

Jake Prosser, owner of Prosser Ranch in Nortonville, Colorado had fallen hard when he met the love of his life. He trusted God for his future, but nothing went as planned. It appears he must endure more than he ever expected, and can his faith withstand it all?


Emma Wright, kidnapped by outlaws, leaving behind a life she loved, now spends time imprisoned in a strange town. Held by an abusive man, she only dreams of her escape. An unexpected event and help from someone she didn’t expect, brings her freedom, but only to suffer another fate. It seems she can’t win but never gives up hope.


Will God heal their broken hearts and bring them the happiness they desire?



Paperback







           Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to You & Your Family! God Bless!



Wednesday, December 21, 2022

NEW RELEASE- To Rescue My Love: A Christmas Surprise by J.E. Grace



Title: To Rescue My Love: A Christmas Surprise

Christian Historical Western Romance

Published:  December 20, 2022

99c or FREE on KU

Description:

Jake Prosser, owner of Prosser Ranch in Nortonville, Colorado had fallen hard when he met the love of his life. He trusted God for his future, but nothing went as planned. It appears he must endure more than he ever expected, and can his faith withstand it all?


Emma Wright, kidnapped by outlaws, leaving behind a life she loved, now spends time imprisoned in a strange town. Held by an abusive man, she only dreams of her escape. An unexpected event and help from someone she didn’t expect, brings her freedom, but only to suffer another fate. It seems she can’t win but never gives up hope.

Will God heal their broken hearts and bring them the happiness they desire?





Thursday, December 15, 2022

Needles the Forgotten Christmas Tree by Richard Wagner Book Tour, Author Interview & Review

 

 


Book Details:

Book Title:  Needles the Forgotten Christmas Tree by Richard Wagner
Category:  Children's Fiction (ages 3 to 7), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's Book
Publisher:  Mascot
Release date:   Mar 7, 2023
Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.
***** MOM'S CHOICE GOLD AWARD WINNER *****
Book Description:

The world is not always perfect. A scraggly little tree named Needles must endure taunts, criticism, and setbacks to realize his goal of becoming a beautiful Christmas tree.

This is a story of hope, dreams, desires, determination, and never giving up. It also offers the observation that what others think is beautiful may not really matter. Beauty is truly in the eyes of the beholder . . . and paired with the spirit of Christmas, maybe we can make the world just a little more perfect!
Buy the Book:
(release date March 2023)
(pre-order now)
Mascot Amazon ~ B&N

My Review
5 stars
The concept for Needles the Forgotten Christmas tree is magical. The storyline is one that teaches a lesson that we all have worth regardless of what we look like on the outside. To never give up.
The story is easy to read and would hold the attention of any child due to the wonderful illustrations in bright colors. The drawings add lots of life to the story. 
Even when things weren't working out and Needles didn't seem to be getting a family to take him home, he never gave up.  The lessons a child could learn from this well-written story could inspire them to be the best they can be.  Very inspirational and inspiring children's book.  I agree with the author.  The illustrator nailed it and the collaboration between the author and the illustrator created a wonderful book with a beautiful message that all children need to hear.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it. All opinions are my own.
Julie
Meet the Author:

Wagner grew up in Southern California. When he was 14-years old, a business friend of his father’s had a small Christmas tree delivered as a thank you. Their family already had a large tree decorated in the house. Not being able to find anyone who needed a tree, that small Christmas tree stood outside by itself for the remainder of the Christmas holiday.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW
What made you write this book?
       When I was  14, a business associate of my father's delivered a small Christmas tree to our home as a thank-you. However, we already had a large tree decorated in the living room. We tried to find someone to take the tree but to no avail. That little tree sat by itself by the side of the house for the remainder of the holidays. I always felt sorry for that little tree, and for many years I wanted to write a story about what might have been.
Is the story based on real people in your life?
   Not really. As the story unfolded, the characters in the story just sort of fell into place to make the story work.  My goal was to create a situation that was uplifting in the end.
Your book seems to have several messages to children?
     Yes. I believe a children's book should constitute life lessons and be inspiring. The teachable lessons in this story deal with hopes and dreams, determination in the face of great odds, and the virtue of never giving up. In addition, the idea that what one person or group may not find appealing, another person may find beautiful.
Is this your first book?
     Yes.
Have you enjoyed the process?
     To some extent. Writing the initial story was not complicated. Deciding on a publisher was more effort. However, the hardest part was finding a good illustrator that was willing to buy into my concept of the book.
What was that concept?
      I wanted illustrations that were elegant, not cartoonish. It was important that Needles look like a real tree, and that his emotions be defined by how the tree looked, whether it was standing tall or drooping, etc.  I think that Sydni Kuger nailed it.     

Enter the Giveaway:
NEEDLES THE FORGOTTEN CHRISTMAS TREE Book Tour Giveaway




Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Are You a Pineapple by Kathryn A. Zolman Book Tour

 


 

Book Details:

Book Title:  Are You A Pineapple? by Kathryn A. Zolman
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books
Release date:   May, 2022
Content Rating:  G. Suitable for everyone.
Book Description:

Kevin has a beautiful new puppy! But what should he name her? He wants to find a name that is unique, just like her. Kevin knows the puppy is special, but he’s about to find out just how smart she is when she helps Kevin choose her own name!
My Review
Are You a Pineapple is a good book for very young children. The storyline is all about a new puppy that Kevin desperately tries to name. After many tries, the puppy finally responds to his name.

The illustrations are well-drawn and the bright colors would catch the eye of any young child. It's an easy-to-read story that a brother or sister could read to a younger sibling. The simple message is one any child can understand.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.

Meet the Author:

Kathryn A. Zolman never expected to write a children’s book, but when Pineapple came into her life and she heard the story of how this sweet, smart dog got her name, she thought it would make a fun book for parents to read to their children. Pineapple is a Bull Mastiff, German Shepherd, Chow mix, and much like a real pineapple, she knows how to stand tall and is very sweet on the inside!

Kathryn is an avid dog lover. Along with her husband and daughter, they have raised three Doberman Pinschers, each with their own unique personality and character. Kathryn is an advocate for not only raising children to respect all animals, but also to be thankful for the pure joy that they bring to our lives. In writing this book, Kathryn seeks to spread a positive message and hopes it will help children express more gratitude in their lives.

Q&A Author Interview

 

Q: What made you write a book about Pineapple?

               A: When I heard the story from Kevin, Pineapple’s owner, about how he came up with her name, I fell in love with the tale! I loved everything about it! I could visualize the story in my head and thought it would be such a fun book for parents to read to their children. That it’s based on a true story, makes it even more special!

Q: How long did it take you to write the story?

               A: It took approximately two months to write, edit, and format it in a manuscript style that I felt comfortable sending to publishers. Since the book is based on a true story, the bulk of the content wrote itself. I did try to add positive words or phrases in my writing. I wanted the book to be fun to read, but also convey positivity.

Q: How did you decide on an illustrator for your book?

               A: Mascot Books works with some very talented artists! I reviewed the work of several of them and narrowed it down to three that we sent photos of Pineapple to for a rendering. I absolutely loved the way Walter Policelli depicted Pineapple! I feel like he was able to capture her personality perfectly and the way she holds her ears out away from her head. He did a phenomenal job with all the illustrations!

Q: How would you explain your journey of becoming a published author?

               A: Exciting! Overwhelming at times! The process from initial concept to book in hand was a fantastic learning experience. Mascot Books and Foreward Publicity have been great partners in the journey! I never expected to be a children’s book author, but I am very thankful the publisher liked my story!

Q: What advice would you give budding writers?

               A: My main advice would be to not give up! If you have a great idea for a book and can visualize the pages before writing it, give it a try! Do some research on typing manuscripts and finding the right publisher, but anything is possible!

Q: What is your next project?

               A: I’m being urged to write a second Pineapple book. Some people say it should be a book series. Pineapple was extremely smart and very adventurous, so the content practically writes itself, but I just don’t know if I’m up for the challenge. At the moment, I don’t have any plans to write another book.

 


connect with the author: instagram  

Enter the Giveaway
ARE YOU A PINEAPPLE? Book Tour Giveaway