Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide 2022

www.IndependentPressAward.com

1

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Publishers Letter

I

don’t know about you, but I like to listen to authors speak about their book, their process, and their life. For me, it creates a closer connection to the books they write.

isn’t, is a physician turned writer. How cool is that, and even better, the guy is trying to cure cancer! See page 8.

Inside this edition, between great holiday book picks, you will see over two dozen authors that have been interviewed by The GAB TALKS Podcast, www.theGABTALKS.com this year. GAB TALKS is on over 20+ streaming services including Apple, Spotify, and iHeartRadio. Gabby is a natural researcher, and always brings out something I didn’t know before; and more importantly, always something interesting about the author that makes me feel more ‘in the know’. I like that.

Who doesn’t have generational baggage?

Gina Birkemeier who speaks about breaking cycles and finding freedom without a preachy or heavy-handed process. For her it was faith and therapy, but says that’s not the only way. See page 51.

Or David B Whitacre. Another most intelligent person whose life experience demands that he get to know, understand, to explain why people do what they do. Take the gift quiz, https://www. sevengifts.com/gift-quiz. See page 62. It was a lot of fun, and I bet you’ll find out a lot more about yourself.

I would also like to thank my dear friend, colleague, and previous boss (twice), David Nudo for his contribution to this issue. He gives us real stats showing us that bookstores are alive and well, and asks our friends and industry professionals to give their best Holiday Book Pick.

So many authors, so many books, so little time! Click on the interviews, let the information wash over you, and you might be surprised like I was. Some of these authors have become favorites; and I didn’t even know their name until I listened to their GAB TALKS interview. I’m so looking forward to “keep on reading!”

As you begin your holiday shopping, take a moment to learn about the authors featured. Click thru to their landing page and watch their video interview.

Ted Olczak

For one, John Albedo, who with his ‘debut’ book which it actually

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Publisher

4

www.nycbigbookaward.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

4 5 7 8 11 13 19 22 24 26 29 30 62 52 54 55 55 61

Publishers Letter Table of Contents for book category listings Table of Contents for GAB TALKS GAB TALKS Spotlight: John Albedo Business and Career Children’s Christian and Inspiration Fantasy and Science Fiction LGBTQ Mystery; Romantic Comedy; and Women’s Fiction Holiday Book Picks Holiday Gift Guide GAB TALKS Spotlight: David B Whitacre Personal Growth; Mind, Body, Spirit; and Self-help Poetry Thrillers and Suspense Nonfiction Fiction

LAST

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Minute

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

5

www.nycbigbookaward.com

www.IndependentPressAward.com

6

www.nycbigbookaward.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

8 11 12 13 14 19 20 22 26 42 42 43 43 45 48 48 50 51 52 52 57 60 62 65

Nutshell (The Brainbow Chronicles) by John Albedo • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Art of Being a School Counselor by Nancy Regas • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Unconventional: A Memoir of Entrepreneurism, Politics, and Pot

by Jamie Garzot

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

New Moon’s Family by Erika Adams and Eric Soderstrom • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Nurse Florence, I’m having Trouble Sleeping by Michael Dow • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Attractiveness of Wisdom by Judy Kelly • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

This Hallowed Ground by Donna E. Lane • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

KinderraSaga: Trine Rising; Trine Fallacy by C.K. Donnelly • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Sins of the Family / The Fixer’s Daughter, part of the Callie McFee Mysteries Series, by Hy Conrad

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Nimue: Freeing Merlin by Ayn Cates Sullivan

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Women of Fire and Snow by Nati del Paso • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Glimpse by Lis Bensley • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Paris Blue by Julie Scolnik • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Coldwater Revenge by James A. Ross • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

How My Brain Works: A Guide to Understanding It Better and Keeping It Healthy by Dr. Barbara Koltuska-Haskin

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Ark of the Apocalypse by Tobin Marks • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Light Medicine by Dr. Ana Maria Mihalcea, MD, PHD • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Generations Deep: Unmasking Inherited Dysfunction and Trauma to Rewrite Our Stories Through Faith and Therapy by Gina Birkemeier

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Reflections on Ineffable Love: from loss through grief to joy

by Cheryl Lafferty Eckl

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

AfterLIFE, Waking Up from My American Dream

by Carlo Pietro Sanfilippo

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A Call To Reform: Sustaining America’s Unique Culture

by Stephen P. Fish

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Unfakeable Code® by Tony Jeton Selimi

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

The Seven Gifts by David B Whitacre • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Through a Broken Window by Gary Turchin

www.IndependentPressAward.com

7

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 NYC Big Book Award:

Nutshell begins during Dust Bowl days in west Texas.

There, a country doctor with shaky credentials delivers a baby, a so-called “monster,” acceptable parlance of that era indicating a newborn with multiple birth defects.Later, Ivy Pettibone is mistakenly thought schizophrenic due to her garbled speech, landing her in a mental institution.

There, she weaponizes one of her unusual birth defects, allowing her to emerge as an alpha female among the inmates.

with

John Albedo

P

hysician turned writer, Alan B. Hollingsworth, also known as John Albedo, talks about his writing career, several books, and anticipation of his option for a television series and film.

In a parallel story merging decades later, Chase Callaway, grandson of Ivy’s delivering “doctor,” enters medical school planning on a career in psychiatry. While working as an aide in the mental institution, he strikes up a friendship with Ivy whereupon their lives become intertwined. After observing a surgical procedure with its instantaneous success, Chase alters his path toward specializing in general surgery. There, he ignores warning signs that he might be headed in the wrong direction. As Chase builds his shell of emotional protection to combat the “sins of commission” that are encountered in surgery, his armor includes one rusty bolt - his relationship with a distant physician-father who never finished his surgical residency.

Nutshell is a genre-bending thriller that offers readers a birds eye view into the rigors of med-school through the lens of a supernatural-tinged, multi-generational drama. The award-winning novelist writes with a deft hand, weaving together a myriad of storylines into a unified narrative -- one that will leave readers guessing until the very last page. Add to that Albedo’s tempered prose and clear mastery over the subtleties of suspense and you have yourself a truly thought-provoking page-turner.”

–Vine Voice

Relationships shift and coincidences abound, raising the question of metaphysical explanations. Is the Callaway family haunted by a 13-generation curse? Is Ivy a designated guardian angel for Chase?

Or, is the saga a simple tale made complex by quirky events?

You can watch the full video interview at www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/nutshell-(the-brainbow-chronicles)

Alan B. Hollingsworth (a.k.a. John Albedo) provided some additional information.

Are you a practicing physician?

Retired from patient care (breast cancer surgery), but actively consulting with several companies, helping to introduce new screening technology.

Some reviews have called Nutshell a debut novel, but not true?

Not true – because I used a pseudonym, it only appeared to be my first novel.

I’ve been writing for 45 years, www.IndependentPressAward.com

8

with my first published novel 22 years ago. With its success, I had to decide whether to drop medicine and devote myself to writing full-time. The book was a coming-of-age story called Flatbellies, and was completely non-medical. It was, to date, my greatest success. Reviewed in USA Today, selected as “One of the top 10 golf books of all time” by a panel of East Coast sportswriters, and optioned for film three times over 15 years, now looking at a possible fourth www.nycbigbookaward.com

option for TV series that would include the sequel to Flatbellies, called University Boulevard (both published by WW Norton after hardcover by a small sports publisher).

And how did you get from these coming-of-age stories to dark medical fiction?

Personal experience.

Even University Boulevard is darker than Flatbellies, as the wheels of trouble were already in motion after I had completed Flatbellies.

Is this where your pseudonym was born?

You became “John Albedo” for your novel Nutshell, which was selected as a Distinguished Favorite in the 2022 NYC Big Book Award…..

I wrote one more book before making that leap – a true crime story about the 1923 murder of my 30 year-old maternal grandfather, Albert Berch, who was killed by a mob in small town Oklahoma, for having hired an African-American to work as a porter at my grandparent’s hotel. That’s another story, but I functioned as an investigative reporter who arrived on the scene 90 years after the fact, and that became the book, Killing Albert Berch. I also slipped in two books on breast cancer, all the while working on a trilogy, starting with Nutshell.

My pseudonym is used only for the 3 books in what I call the Brainbow Chronicles. And I picked “Albedo” because it’s a physics term related to units of measurement applied to reflection and reflective properties.

The theme – reflecting on faith vs. science – runs throughout the trilogy.

And why a pseudonym at all?... that means starting over, building your readership.

The usual….I wanted to distance myself from the story. But www.IndependentPressAward.com

also, the “voice” in this trilogy is entirely different than what readers liked about Flatbellies.

I didn’t want readers to expect the same light-hearted voice that drove the Flatbellies story.

book are based on reality. endowment left by his father to Cannibal Club was released the local medical school, but a few months ago, and while a with the caveat that the money summary of Nutshell is placed be spent for a cancer research at the beginning of the book, I agenda that is ludicrous. At least, think the reader experience is that’s what everyone believes greatly enhanced by reading the until new evidence inadvertently Tell us about Nutshell, the 3 books in order. prompts investigation into the novel recognized in the NYC life of Chase Callaway. As with Big Book Awards……

And the third book? the second installment, it is My protagonist, Chase Callaway, With release in February strongly recommended that the heads to medical school planning 2023, Heavenly Blues is a books be read in order. on a career in psychiatry. “roundabout redemption” as I’m planning on a 25th However, an encounter with a told by one of Chase Callaway’s anniversary issue of my first surgical patient, apparently cured old medical school classmates. novel, Flatbellies, hopefully to by a simple operation, prompts So, each of the three books be timed with the announcement him to switch his decision and has a different viewpoint. Will of a TV series deal (wishful become a surgeon. At a deeper Glendenning becomes the thinking, perhaps). level, however, it seems he is protagonist in this final book, as in competition with his distant he faces the challenge of a huge father, a physician who never finished his surgical training.

SCAN FOR FULL INTERVIEW Chase’s story is interwoven Web sites for Alan. B. Hollingsworth: www.johnalbedo.com with that of Ivy Pettibone, an inmate in a nearby mental www.alanhollingsworth.com institution, who was placed www.killingalbertberch.com there by mistake, based on a language disorder, as opposed to her diagnosis of schizophrenia.

With multiple birth defects, she weaponizes one in particular that has protected her throughout her life, and then serves as a guardian angel to Chase as their stories become intertwined. In short, Nutshell is the “making of a surgeon,” but with a design flaw.

So Nutshell is the first of a trilogy. Where do you take your protagonist in the next book, and is available yet?

Unlike the first book written in the omniscient viewpoint, the second book – Cannibal Club – is written by Chase Callaway as “proof” to his psychiatrist that he is a candidate to undergo experimental psychosurgery to control his rage induced by experiences in medicine for two decades following the end of Nutshell. A short summary of the book would be: “The deconstruction of a surgeon.”

While not a roman a clef exactly, certain vignettes in this second 9

www.nycbigbookaward.com

www.IndependentPressAward.com

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2021 NYC Big Book Award:

Beyond Diversity: 12 NonObvious Ways to Build a More Inclusive World

by Rohit Bhargava & Jennifer Brown

with

Nancy Regas

Whether you are thinking about school counseling as a profession, just embarking on your career or you’re already an established school counselor, The Art of Being a School Counselor is an inspirational resource filled with invaluable ideas and proven strategies.

ChangeMasters: How To Actually Make the Changes You Already Know You Need To Make

by Barry J. Moltz

1. Surprise, school is not about all Math, Science, English,

Competing on Thought Leadership

by Robert S. Buday

2.

Empathy In Action: How to Deliver Great Customer Experiences at Scale

by Tony Bates, Dr. Natalie Petouhoff

Six Key Ideas from The Art of Being a School Counselor

3.

4.

5.

6.

and History; it uses those subjects [and the arts] to teach students what school is really about: HINT: it’s in the power of seven: Time management, Organization, Responsibility, Accountability, Accessing Resources, Knowing When & Whom to Ask for Help, and Punctuality As a counselor, an educator, a great communicator, there are two words you cannot live without. Do you know what they are? Nevertheless, and Regardless Expectations can often get us disappointed, misunderstood, upset, and let down; however, there are two expectations that you can and should expect from your students as well as given to them. Honesty and Respect Is it necessary to learn another language to be an effective counselor? Yes, but which one? Person-First Language. What is it and why is it so important?

If you can honestly declare this statement, you not only will feel content but also leave the door open for continual growth.

I did the best I knew how at the time.

Is there such a thing as a one-word jump-start? YES! It really works especially for those students that yes, but everything you say! NIKE [which we all know means, Just Do It!]

Everyone Is An “Influencer”: Building A Brand By Engaging The People Who Matter Most

by Kelly Keenan

From Start-Up to Grown-Up: Grow Your Leadership to Grow Your Business

by Alisa Cohn Indirect Work: A REgenerative Change Theory for Business, Communities, Institutions, and Humans

by Carol Sanford Leadership Rites of Passage: The Journey of the Aspiring Leader and the Methods of the Mentor

by Rick Tirrell Leading Below the Surface: How to Build Real (and Psychologically Safe) Relationships with People Who Are Different From You

by LaTonya Wilkins Leading for Justice: Supervision, HR, and Culture

by Rita Sever

You can watch the full video interview at https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-art-of-being-a-school-counselor

Nancy L. Regas spent 22 years counseling in public schools: first as a resource coordinator, next as a life skills counselor, and finally she spent the majority of her time as a high school counselor.

Nancy followed that by becoming a regional representative for an out-of-state private liberal arts college. She advised both public and private schools in three counties for three years. She resides with her husband for half a century and has two adult daughters and two granddaughters.

BUSINESS Adapt: Scaling Purpose in a Divisive World

by Diane Primo

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Anticipate Failure: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Navigating Uncertainty, Avoiding Disaster, and Building a Successful Business

by Lak Ananth 11

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Leading Inclusion: Drive Change Your Employees Can See and Feel

by Gena Cox, Ph.D. Leading Inclusion: Drive Change Your Employees Can See and Feel

by Gena Cox Non-Obvious Megatrends

by Rohit Bhargava PEOPLE FIRST: A Proven Method for an Exceptional Healthcare Practice

by Amy Lafko People Power - Transform your business in the era of safety and wellbeing

by Karen J Hewitt Rapid Growth Done Right

by Val Wright SHE RULES: What you didn’t know is holding you back in business

by Sara Roach Lewis Sweating Together: How Peloton Built a Billion Dollar Venture and Created Community in a Digital World

by David J. Miller

The Brand Positioning Workbook: A Simple How-To Guide To More Compelling Brand Positionings, Faster

by Ulli Appelbaum The Non-Obvious Guide to Marketing & Branding (Without a Big Budget)

by Rohit Bhargava The Success Factor: Developing the Mindset and Skillset for Peak Business Performance

by Ruth Gotian

Jobseeker’s Guide, 9th Edition, Ten Steps to a Federal Job®

by Kathryn Troutman Options Are Power: Career Strategies for High Performers Who Want a Life

by Donna Peters Reputation 360: Jumpstart your career by building a positive personal brand

by Lida Citroën

2022 Independent Press Award:

Thoughtfully Ruthless

by Val Wright To Be Honest: Lead with the Power of Truth, Justice and Purpose

by Ron A. Carucci

The Female Edge

by Mary McGuire

with

Jamie Andrea Garzot

An inspirational story about taking a chance, following your vision, and thriving in one of the U.S.’ wildest emerging industries.

Turnaround: How to Change Course When Things Are Going

by Lisa Gable

Jamie Andrea Garzot was one of the least likely people to become a cannabis entrepreneur, advocate, and industry pioneer. She had no business background. She was not involved in politics. She had only a four-figure capital investment to start with. Surprisingly, she had very limited experience with cannabis products. So how did Garzot find herself at the forefront of California’s cannabis movement? ​ In this inspirational memoir, Garzot describes her trajectory from a cannabis retail rookie navigating an unregulated market to a cannabis authority. During her time in the industry, she developed a wildly successful line of artisanal edibles, managed $12 million a year in allcash sales, and became an advocate for cannabis legislation at the state capitol—all of which led to an eventual acquisition by High Times, one of the most recognized names in the industry. Office intrigues, personal crises, shifting regulations, teamwork, innovation, and community leadership. Garzot, with good-na-

What’s Your “And”?: Unlock the Person Within the Professional

by John Garrett

CAREER

www.IndependentPressAward.com

The Art of Being a School Counselor: Leading with Confidence, Compassion, and Authenticity

by Nancy L. Regas, M.S., M.F.T., P.P.S.

Unconventional profiles Jamie Andrea Garzot’s journey as one of California’s legal cannabis industry pioneers.

Women on Top: What’s Keeping You From Executive Take Charge of You: How Self- Leadership?

Coaching Can Transform Your by Deb Boelkes Life and Career

by David Novak, Jason Goldsmith Words That Work: Communicate Your Purpose, The Art of Lifelong Your Profits and Your Customers: The Field Guide Performance to Growing Profitable

by Val Wright and Fulfilling Customer Relationships Your Next Big Idea: Improve

by Mihaela Akers Your Creativity and ProblemSolving

by Samuel Sanders Executive Presence: The P.O.I.S.E Formula for Leadership

by Shital Kakkar Mehra

Talent: The Market Cap Multiplier

by Ram Charan, Anish Batlaw

Flight Paths to Success: Career Insights from Women Leaders in Aerospace

by Rhonda Walthall, Brenda Mitchell

tured humor, shares how thinking creatively, planning ahead, and forming connections in the most unlikely places contributed to her success in a continually shifting business landscape.

Unconventional is the story of an industry in its wild heyday, the inner workings of local and state government and cannabis’s dicey road to regulation, and the seismic changes in the way cannabis was distributed and sold. It is also the story of one woman’s tenacious spirit and all the lessons she learned the hard way—by refusing to give power to fear, taking risks, building community in a volatile environment, and listening to what people wanted—and how staying true to her vision paid off every step of the way. ​ Anyone who has ever dreamed of following their gut and reinventing their life will be inspired by Garzot’s unusual and unconventional journey.

You can watch the full video interview at

www.independentpressaward.com/unconventional 12

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2021 NYC Big Book Award:

with

Bliss and Her Friends

by Bernadette Wells and Carl Baker

Erika Adams

Winning as a distinguished favorite in the NYC Big Book Award in the Children’s Educational category in 2021, New Moon’s Family will make a great addition to bedtime reading and a treasured book in your children’s book collection.

Brady and the Backyard Monster

by Pattie Manente Calling the Wind: A Story of Healing and Hope

by Written by Trudy Ludwig, Illustrated by Kathryn Otoshi

Inspired by the phases of the moon, New Moon’s Family is a rhyming story about how loved ones are always in your heart, no matter how far away they might feel.

Dancing Deepa

by Suchi Sairam

Paired with an expository section, this whimsical moon story is an enlightening astronomy book for kids and a wonderful gift for long-distance families!

Erika Adams has always been fascinated by how different the moon can look from one night to the next, almost as if it were not one, but many moons. One day she thought, ‘’What if it really was?’’--and so New Moon’s Family was born. Erika has degrees from Lake Superior College and the University of Minnesota-Duluth. When not writing, she hosts a storytelling radio program called The Tale Collector. She is also the author of Allie’s Adventure on the Wonder, a semi-autobiographical novella inspired by the Lewis Carroll novel Alice in Wonderland and Erika’s struggles with Auditory Processing Disorder.

She currently lives and writes in Duluth and regularly indulges in anime, vintage science fiction, and Mexican food.

Eek! My Ink!

by Raven Howell

studied art at the University of Wisconsin. Eric is a self-taught artist of many mediums, a member of numerous art boards, and a volunteer art teacher to elementary school students in Lake County. He participates each year in the ‘’Chalk a Lot’’ event (winning a prize in 2018) and has been commissioned to chalk dragons outside the Big Lake Gallery in Grand Marais, which appeared on PBS’s The Slice. Eric now lives in Silver Bay, where he enjoys drawing mythical creatures, being a husband, father, and grandfather, and living with two cats and a pug/Chihuahua, Lily (who is almost dog-like).

Everybody Loves Grace: A True Story of Grace’s Adventure to Pennsylvania

by Katy McQuaid Funny and Fascinating Animals!

by Anna Gasol, Teresa Blanch Gizelle’s Silly, Soggy Day

by Michelle Hill and Joy VanDertuin Grumpy Goes Home For The Holiday

by Susan Marie Chapman Have You Ever Wondered What You Will Be?

by Junia Wonders Imani’s Undersea Adventure

by T. M. Jackson It’s That Time of Year! Diwali is Here!

by Vanessa Kapadia Lazlo Learns Recorder

by Vicky Weber Little Miss Linda Goes to Counseling

by Dr. Linda J. M. Holloway Little Miss Linda Speaks Out About Diversity

by Dr. Linda J. M. Holloway

New Moon is sad and lonely in the darkness of the night.

But will she learn that love is Illustrator Eric Soderstrom near, even when it’s out of sight? is a Two Harbors native who You can watch the full video interview at

www.independentpressaward.com/newmoonsfamily

CHILDRENS 1-2-3 My Feelings and Me

by Goldie Millar, Lisa A. Berger

Alphabet of Flowers

by Gloria D. Gonsalves

A Peacemaker for Warring Nations: The Founding of the Iroquois League

by Joseph Bruchac

Benny’s Symphony

by Amy Leask

www.IndependentPressAward.com

13

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Mr. Robert’s Madagascar: A Tale of a Lost World

by Robert Bullock My First Time: Going to a Funeral

by Caryn Rivadeneira My Old Friend, Then

by Katherine Davis-Gibbon Myla’s Magic Day

by Erica L Clymer New Moon’s Family

by Erika Adams and Eric Soderstrom Nurse Florence, I’m having Trouble Sleeping

by Michael Dow Pablo: The Plate Painter of Mazatlan

by Craig Morgan Porter Rollins and Rufus ZaeJoDaeus

POMP, SNOW & CIRQUEumstance

by Neil Goldberg & Niko Nickolaou Rhythm’s World Tour Vol 1: North America

by Patrick Adams

The Rare, Tiny Flower

by Kitty O’Meara

What Sounds Do You Love?

by Gülsah Yemen

The Who That I Am

by Cynthia Carla The Wish Box

by Susan Marie Chapman

When the Earth Slept

by Jillian Arena

Visual Biology. Animals: Illustrated Study Guide.

by Vladimir Timokhanov

Swahili Folklore: A Compilation of Animal Facts, Folktales, Nursery Rhymes, and Songs

by Gloria D. Gonsalves

William’s Wondering Week

by Jacqueline Klouda

MIDDLE GRADE

The Ace Compeers: The Secrets of Skin Colour

by Rita Bhandari

Gameknight999 in Adopt Me meets Jailbreak

by Mark Cheverton

The Jolt Felt Around the World

by Susanna Shetley

Ruby Foo and the Traveling Kitchen, Adventure #1: Finding the Foo Identity

by Tiffany Foo

The Most Courageous Sailor in the World

by Can Tugrul

2022 Independent Press Award

Terriers in the Jungle, A Novel

by Georja Umano The Runaways of Missing Lake

by Tanya Fyfe Through the Redwood Hollow

by Kenna Paige

with

Michael Dow

Sometimes it seems only a nurse can bring technical information down to an understanding that an ordinary person can grasp. The Nurse Florence® book series provides high quality medical information in a friendly format designed for children but appreciated by adults alike. Author Dow maintains that by introducing young kids to correct terminology and science concepts at an early age, we can help increase our children’s health literacy level as well as help to prepare them for courses and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

Michael Dow is a man on a mission. Nursing is a third career for Michael. Michael served 8 years in the US Air Force and then 8 years as an Army Wounded Warrior Advocate helping Army Veterans managing combat PTSD. He used his GI bill to complete an accelerated Master's level nursing program to take the NCLEX. He now works as an inpatient psychiatric RN. He is married to Perla and has three children, Kegan, Nicholas, and Mia. Designed to promote health and science, Dow plans to publish hundreds of books in the series and eventually plans to publish a Nurse Florence series focusing on mental health issues.

You can watch the full video interview at https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/nurse-florence%2C-i%27m-havingtrouble-sleeping www.IndependentPressAward.com

14

www.nycbigbookaward.com

15

PICTURE BOOKS ABC Ready for School: An Alphabet of Social Skills

by Celeste C. Delaney

Guru Nanak: First of the Sikhs

by Demi

Ack! The Nantucket Duckling

by A.K. Spurway

Have You Ever Wondered What You Will Be?

by Junia Wonders

Bravo Anjali

by Sheetal Sheth Caillou Learns About Screen Time

by Christine L’Heureux From A to Z with Energy!: 26 Ways to Move and Play

by Connie Bergstein Dow Get Back in the Book!

by Larry Issa Grayson’s Magic Dragon

by Debbie L. Hepner

Have You Seen My Friends?: The Adventures of Creativity

by Monica H. Kang

Spirit of the Cheetah: The Tap-Dancing Pigeon Of A Somali Tale Covent Garden

by Karen Lynn Williams & Khadra by Serena Hassan Mohammed We All Have Spots That Monster on the Block

by M. J. McDonald

by Sue Ganz-Schmitt You are the Perfect You The Fearless Flight of Sammy by Melinda Gibbons the Swallow

by William J. Barker, Jr.

I Love You Through Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall

by Junia Wonders

The Night the Monsters Came

by Junia Wonders

I Want a Nickname

by Tradara McLaurine

YOUNG ADULT

Izzy and the Lost Butterfly

by Lindsay Barlow & Lisa Becker Savanah Banana Caring for Others

by Debbie L. Hepner

All the Things We Didn’t See

by D.A. Reed

Once Upon a Scare

by Dr. Bon Blossman

Blue

by L.E. DeLano

Runaway Train

by Lee Matthew Goldberg

Calculated

by Nova McBee

Sangre Cove

by Regina Castillo

Everything All At Once (Book 1 in the CHORDUROYS AND TOO MANY BOYS™ series)

by Ivy Cayden

Ski Weekend

by Rektok Ross

For the Love of Rose: A Journey in Three Worlds

by Robert Egby Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex

by Carole P. Roman Of Us and Them

by T. L. Coughlin

Space Story

by W. W. Marplot The Boy Who Lived In The Ceiling

by Cara Thurlbourn The Sand Pounder: Love and Drama on Horseback in WWII

by M.J. Evans

Off Trail

by Rick Polito

www.IndependentPressAward.com

16

www.nycbigbookaward.com

17

18

2022 Independent Press Award

with

Judy Kelly

The Attractiveness of Wisdom is a Christian, literary fiction, heart-warming, enthralling novel with endearing, and unforgettable characters.

After a tumultuous marriage and struggle to trying to keep it together, Hamilton, a university dean, sets out on a perilous emotional journey to change his life and seek the kind of love he's always wanted. He's tired of controlling his life and the lives of others.

Hamilton meets Franny, a troubled dance teacher, and accepts her job offer of organizer in her studio. When Franny injures her foot, Hamilton must step out of his secure place to help. His trepidation increases when he meets a research journalist who falls in love with him. But her life isn't what it seems. He fears controlling her, and after her convent life she needs his love.

Will Hamilton wise up and learn how a man truly loves a woman, the value of friendship and the need for prayer?

You can listen to the interview at www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalksaudioonly/the-attractiveness-of-wisdom

and the full video will be made available this month at www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-attractiveness-of-wisdom

Judy Kelly presents at conferences, libraries, and meetings. She teaches fiction writing at Montgomery College and Frederick Community College. Judy is an adjunct professor at Montgomery College where she teaches speech, college reading and English.

She enjoys walking, live theatre, and museums.

CHRISTIAN All Will Be Well: Receiving The Keys To Strengthen Your Faith

by Bukky Agboola

Broken But Still A Masterpiece

by Miyoshi Umeki Gordon

Generations Deep: Unmasking Inherited Dysfunction and Trauma to Rewrite Our Stories Through Faith and Therapy

by Gina Birkemeier LPC

Salt & Light; The Complete Jesus

We’re All Doing Our Best: Finding God’s Healing, Grace, and Truth Through Examination of Our Stories

by Tasha Page

Christian Fiction Angelic Wars: End of the Beginning

by Rick E. Norris

General Jack and the Battle of the Five Kingdoms

by David Bush

Pink: A Christmas Romance Novel

by Monica Collier

by Jonathan Geoffrey Dean www.IndependentPressAward.com

19

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 NYC Big Book Award

with

Dr. Donna E. Lane

Dr. Lane is an award-winning author, Christian counselor, spiritual director, and professor. Her writings include fiction, nonfiction, professional counseling books, and children’s books.

FROM THE AUTHOR As a multiple award-winning author, Christian counselor, spiritual director, and professor of counseling, I use my experience and professional insight into human motivations and personalities to develop complex characters and explore difficult psychological topics in-depth. My writings include fiction, nonfiction, professional counseling books, and children’s books.

Her book, This Hallowed Ground, Dr. Lane asks “How much can war steal from one man?

Georgia, 1861. As the tides of war sweep south, Aidan MacAlister is drawn north to defend his land. After tragedy strikes at Gettysburg, Aidan spirals into unfamiliar, dark places of unbridled fury, earning him the nickname, the Fourth Horseman.

My husband, David, and I enjoy working and writing together. Our passion is to help others explore and deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ, and our work and our writings are geared toward that goal.

Our children are grown with families of their own. Our son, Hayden, is a teacher, married to Natalie, a nurse.

They have two children, Coen and Petra, our precious grandchildren.

My books range from imaginings of Our daughter, Lindsey, is a other worlds and futuristic societies veterinarian, married to Kyle, an to profound explorations of deep electrical engineer. theological concepts. They offer new perspectives, challenge in-depth Our youngest son, Cody, passed self-examination, and encourage a away at the age of seventeen from a fearless embrace of life’s joys and degenerative neurological disorder. sorrows. I take you to other worlds His life stands as a beautiful and other times. I tackle difficult reflection of what it means to live questions. I face genuine suffering in the Kingdom of God in the and rejoice in God’s redemption. here-and-now. You can read more After you finish my books, I hope about Cody’s story at https:// you find yourself enlivened and codylanefoundation.com. His life enriched, with a newfound desire to story informs much of my writing. experience God to the fullest.

A hero to his fellow soldiers, Aidan’s self-loathing consumes him, and every lesson his family taught him crumbles to dust beneath its weight.

Aidan returns to the farm to find it ravaged by Yankee patrols. War has taken all—perhaps even his soul.

Aidan’s one chance at redemption sends him West to fight the Native people who, like him, are defending their land. His sympathies lie with the people. His lieutenant demands he kill them all. But Aidan’s encounter with the Lakota begins his transformational passage to a different life.

When love offers Aidan renewed hope, will his past thunder across the plains and steal everything from him again?

Dances with Wolves meets the story of Job in this gripping historical epic of tragedy, loss, and redemption.

See the interview at www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/this-hallowed-ground

The Attractiveness of Wisdom

by Judy Kelly

The Pilate Scroll

by M.B. Lewis

This Hallowed Ground

The Mystic’s Gift

by Donna E. Lane

by Skip Johnson

INSPIRATION Just for Today: A Journal for Conscious Living

by Wendy Craig-Purcell

Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas: How to Transform Your Life, Embrace the Human Connection, and Lead with Meaning

Live Like Sean: Important Life Lessons from My Special- by Genevieve Piturro Needs Son

by TJ Nelligan with Theresa Your Honor, Your Honor: A Journey Through Grief to Foy DiGeronimo Restorative Justice Never Lose Heart - Ordinary

by Judge Leonia J. Lloyd People Who Refused to Quit

by Pete Black www.IndependentPressAward.com

20

www.nycbigbookaward.com

21

FANTASY ADULT URBAN

FANTASY

Birth of the Fae: From the Ashes, Book Three

by Danielle M. Orsino

Chasing the Darkness

by Cassie Sanchez

Dragons in the Clouds

by David Blair

Hælend’s Ballad

by Ian V. Conrey

Ignatius and The Swords of Nostaw

by D.A. Mucci

Like a Lily Among the Thorns

by Karen S. Bell

Nimue: Freeing Merlin

by Ayn Cates Sullivan

Over the Broad Earth: A Novel from the Saga of Fallen Leaves

FANTASY BOOK (SPECIALITY BOOK)

Wrong Side of a Workingman

by Justin DiPego

Dungeon Jest: The Ruby of Power

by Andrew Snook

by J.L. Feuerstack

SCIENCE FICTION

Ark of the Apocalypse

Prior Futures

by Steven Rudy

by Tobin Marks

by Dan Kopcow

The Dying Sun

Luminess the island of the moon (A novella)

Requiem For A Genocide

The Binding Tempest

by L.J. Stanton

by Aoife Burke

The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper

The First Robot President

Martha

by Mary K. Savarese

by Michael Drakich

by Robert Carlyle Taylor

by Walker Zupp

We Have Met the Enemy

THE RAPTOR: The First Book of Cataclysm

by Felicia Watson

by G.A. Finocchiaro

Broken Inn

The Kinderra Saga: Trine Rising (Book One); Trine Fallacy (Book Two); Trine Revelation (Book Three)

by C.K. Donnelly

Over the Breadth of the Earth: A Novel from the Saga of True Teryn Fallen Leaves

by S.G. Blaise

ACTION/ADVENTURE

by Spaulding Taylor

Capsize

SULU SEA

by David Kushner

by Marshall Riggan

2022 Independent Press Award

by J.L. Feuerstack

Last Star Standing

by Andrew W Baldwin

with

C.K. Donnelly

Cindy Kibbe (writing as C.K. Donnelly)Kibbe's lifelong love of fantasy and perseverance, the selfproclaimed “unsuccessful quitter”, dove into selfpublishing, which led to the release of Trine Rising, The Kinderra Saga: Book 1 in August 2020.

Since its release, Trine Rising, The Kinderra Saga: Book 1 has won many literary awards and received many 5-star reviews. Trine Fallacy, The Kinderra Saga: Book 2, released August 2021, is following the success of its predecessor, earning praise and top reviews from book reviewers and influencers. Trine Revelation, The Kinderra Saga: Book 3 was just published this past summer.

Mirana’s fight to bring peace to the land and the battles she faces against her own inner darkness will continue in future novels. The Kinderra Saga is also planned to include prequel trilogies of two pivotal characters, a sequel series featuring the next generation of magically gifted Pinals, and a graphic novel series following the adventures of the elite fighting force, the il’Kin. Cindy's, aka C.K.’s journey toward becoming an award-winning fantasy novelist was a long one with stops in healthcare, information technology, journalism, and freelance careers along the way.

C.K. is the founder of Kibbe Creative Media, a freelance writing and marketing support firm. A lifelong lover of fantasy stories, she lives in Arizona with her husband and little black dog.

Learn more at www.independentpressaward.com/thekinderrasaga or visit the author’s website: https://ckdonnelly.com/ www.IndependentPressAward.com

22

www.nycbigbookaward.com

23

LGBTQ FICTION

Blackout

by Marco Carocari

Is There Still Room In Your Life For Me?

by Will Manwill

Caged Time

by Erik S Meyers

CLUBBED TWO: Anxiety, Anger, Activism

by Robert A. Karl

CLUBBED: A Story of Gay Love: Trials, Tribulations and Triumphs

by Robert A. Karl

KING PEEPER

by J. Ronald M. York

Peeper’s Atonement

by J. Ronald M. York

Peeper’s Revenge

by J. Ronald M. York

Two Boys at Breakwater

by Boston Teran

LGBTQ NONFICTION Songs from an Imperfect Life

by J. Ronald M. York

Still on Fire: Field Notes from a Queer Mystic

by Jan Phillips

Straight Enough

by Lorinda Boyer

The Life and Times of the Legendary Larry Townsend

by Jack Fritscher

Wandering Close to Home: A Gay Son and His Feminist Mother’s Journey to Transform Themselves and Their Family

by Christopher Drajem & Linda Drajem

www.IndependentPressAward.com

24

www.nycbigbookaward.com

25

CRIME FICTION

Good Lookin’: A Joe Turner Mystery

Smothered: A Whipped and Sipped Mystery

The Bones of Amoret

by G. P. Gottlieb

by Arthur Herbert

by T.L. Bequette

Hot House

ROMANCE

The Tattoo Murder

by Bob Brill

MYSTERY COLDWATER REVENGE

Pandion

by James A. Ross

by William Michael Ried

Death in Potter’s Woods: A Witherston Murder Mystery

Preacher Raises the Dead (Evan Wycliff #3)

by Betty Jean Craige

by Gerald Everett Jones

Dragony Rising

Scattered Legacy

by Michael Stephen Daigle

by Marlene M. Bell

Escaping Mercy

Seven O’clock Man

by Sam Polakoff

by Justin DiPego

Match: A Medical Murder Mystery

Sins of the Family

by Mark Edward Langley

by Hy Conrad

by Saul Falconer

by Lisa Towles

A Most Unusual Duke

The Refusal

by Susanna Allen

by Eve M. Riley

Aloha With Love

Those We Trust

by Lindy Miller with Terence Brody

by Marie Jones

Becoming Wilde

Twilight Starlight World Alight

by HK Jacobs

Crystal Lake Inn

by Susan W. Green

Song of the Nile

by Hannah Fielding

What’s Not True -- A Novel

by Valerie Taylor

Where Your Treasure Is

WOMEN’S FICTION

by Hy Conrad

with

Hy Conrad

A Writer/Producer of Monk and White Collar, Hy Conrad speaks about the Callie McFee Myster y Series, and his writing craft. The Fixer’s Daughter (1st book in the series) won the 2022 Independent Press Award. His latest book in the series, Sins of the Family, won the 2022 New York City Big Book Award.

The Fixer’s Daughter pits father against daughter in a twisted tale of murder, deadly secrets and family loyalty. Three years ago, Callie McFee accidentally caused her father's political downfall. Once the most influential man in Texas, Buddy McFee resigned from office and became a "fixer", a person who makes big problems go away. When a prominent CEO is caught trying to bury a raped and murdered girl, it looks like an open-and-shut case. But then Buddy steps in. ​ Sins of the Family follows the story of Callie McFee, an investigative reporter and the daughter of one of the most influential men in Texas. When her father, Buddy McFee, botches an easy legal case -- the DUI arrest of Trevor Birdsong ,a young lifestyle marketer -- Trevor loses millions in stock options and hangs himself. www.IndependentPressAward.com

by Kay C. Beerman

by M.C. Bunn

by Amy S. Peele

2022 Independent Press Award:

by K.T. McGivens

When Silence Screams

The Fixer’s Daughter

The Diabolus Legacy

The Secret At Sunset Hill

26

After Happily Ever After

BINGE

by Leslie A. Rasmussen

by Anne Pfeffer

HY CONRAD has made a career out of murder, earning a Scribe Award for best novel and garnering three Edgar nominations from the Mystery Writers of America. Along the way, he has developed a horde of popular games and interactive films, hundreds of short stories and a dozen books of solvable mysteries, published in over a dozen languages. Hy has also authored the final four books in the Monk series.

In the world of TV, he is best known for his eight seasons as a writer and co-executive producer for the ground-breaking series Monk. Other shows include White Collar and The Good Cop (starring Tony Danza and Josh Groban).

Hy has written 12 books of solve-it-yourself mysteries (Sterling Publishing), some aimed at the youth market and some more challenging volumes for adults, which have been translated into 13 languages. Throughout the 1990’s, Conrad regularly contributed short stories to Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine and Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine.

Learn more at www.independentpressaward.com/hyconrad or the author’s website www.hyconrad.com www.nycbigbookaward.com

27

28

HOLIDAY

have increased 13.2%. The same survey found that 37% of American readers only read in a print format vs. 7% who preferred digital reading. This is encouraging news to brickand-mortar stores; independent booksellers seem to be doing well, while even the once Goliath-like Barnes & Noble has seemingly stopped its retreat and is now opening new stores again, including one, scheduled for 2023, in my neighborhood in New York City.

BOOK PICKS

With this in mind, I’ve picked the brains of a few book industry colleagues to share their best recommendations for this year’s holiday gift-giving.

By David Nudo

B

Matt, a Manhattan bookseller, suggests Stacey Schiff’s “The Revolutionar y: Samuel Adams” (Little, Brown) for history buffs and maybe even some fans of the musical “Hamilton” who wish to learn more about that era in our nation’s story.

ook lovers rejoice! Especially for devotees of the paper- and- ink variety. It seems the demise of the print book was greatly exaggerated, to paraphrase Mark Twain. Whether it was due to the pandemic driving a demand for the printed book as people sought at-home entertainment or just a trend back to a more pleasurable way to read, e-books’ threat for market dominance has diminished in the past few years.

Janice, an editorial director, raves about Gabrielle Zevin’s complex and refreshing “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow.” (Knopf). This acclaimed novel about two friends and creative partners in the video game industry was recently named best of the year by the Book of the Month Club.

A recent study showed that sales of digital books, touted a decade ago as the “‘next great thing”’ and a major market disruptor, had dropped 8% in 2021, while print book sales

www.IndependentPressAward.com

continued on page 44

29

www.nycbigbookaward.com

R E C O V E R Y

Beating Drug Addiction in Tehran: a Women’s Clinic

S H E D

R

I T

E

2022

U I

O

T

G

F A

V

A D U LT

U R B A N

W I N

I T

2022 F A V

O

N

R

AWARD G

U I

S H E D

EVERY FALL

N O N F I C T I O N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

F A

V

Through Julie’s unique, yet universal experiences, you’ll discover creative and loving ways to cherish the last phase of life, and transform it into a lasting legacy: Create beautiful rituals that celebrate and memorialize your loved one, as well as ease your suffering. Live without regrets, and be open to final lessons that can help you navigate life without your loved one. Embrace the deep sorrow of grief, and experience the joy of its greatest blessings. Look beyond a terminal diagnosis to what lasts beyond this lifetime. The greater the relationship, the greater the need to commemorate it.

Cherishable inspires us all to cherish our time together, especially when that time is all too short.

Available at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3D8geQ9 • sales@ipoz.biz

ISBN: 978-1922332325 •

N

I T

E T

Details the intimate lives of four Iranian women, their struggle with drugs and the daily grind they faced in their personal lives. Surprisingly, Iran responded well to its AIDS crisis but forgot to include female drug users. Working at the clinic, Dr. Dolan came away with insights that are rare even in the world of international development.

AWARD

R

I S

I S

N

I

2022 N E R

2

Julie J. Wylie D

D

AWARD

0 2

Cherishable, An Illuminating Guide for Caregivers and Patients I

Dr. Kate Dolan

I

E

A U D I O B O O K

O

&

2

T

A D D I C T I O N

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

Available on Amazon • www.juliejwylie.com

$539

ASIN: B09V1PXY5M •

F A N TA S Y

B E A U T Y

&

$1700

H E A LT H

Mindful Beauty:

Wrong Side of a Workingman

Holistic Habits to Feel and Look Your Best Dr. Debbie Palmer with Valerie Latonat

Justin DiPego

Relax, Let Go, and Become Your Most Beautiful Self with inner peace and outer beauty.

An Illustrated, Modern Urban Fantasy on the Streets of Los Angeles.

Make positive nutritional choices & improve your personal relationships.

Alex Cides straps on his tool belt one morning, only to find his wife is gone, his daughters fear him, he’s lost his job and a mysterious curse has thrown him out of balance with the universe. Ten impossible tasks in LA’s mythical underbelly stand between setting things right, or losing everything. Literally.

Discover new tools for spirituality, relaxation, and self-care with Mindful Beauty “Mindful Beauty is a must read for those looking to find happiness and fulfillment in today’s fast paced society.”

DiPegoNow.com/Books

Llewellyn • Baker & Taylor • Ingram• drdebbiepalmer.com

Available at Amazon.com, Audible.com, BarnesAndNoble.com, and Bookshop.org

ISBN: 979-8986224206 •

$16

99

ISBN: 978-0738761862 •

A N T H O L O G Y

B O O K

Death Never Dies

Viscount Chateaubriand and the Irish Girl Daniel Fallon

This book mourns and celebrates 27 public figures who died in 2020. From RBG to Eddie Van Halen, George Floyd to Alex Trebek, Kobe Bryant to Sean Connery, these people changed our lives. 40 writers contributed poetry and prose tributes, and Fearnside created relief print portraits. Together, these works help us understand our relationships to each other and to ourselves during this tumultuous year.

Imagine inheriting tender letters from a renowned historical figure addressed to one of your ancestors.

Love’s Legacy chronicles Fallon’s search for hidden meaning in two notes sent to his great-great-grandfather in 1817 by famous French writer François-René deChateaubriand. Woven into the rich fabric of this work are elements making it much more than a suspenseful detective story. It is an intimate biography of Chateaubriand, a story of forbidden love, fraught with passion and tragedy, and a memoir, recounting Fallon’s discoveries as he pieces together his ancestry, governed by a legacy rooted in a star-crossed encounter of long ago.

“The various viewpoints provided thought provoking questions about the effect of their lives on society. This book is about legacy.”–Midwest Book Awards

Available retail here: https://gatheringvolumes.com/item/Bp56aduBA41BCC7a6D_xjQ or directly from Chimera Projects website https://www.chimeraprojects.art/store

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo and online booksellers • www.loveslegacybook.com

$2499

ISBN: 978-1735999609 •

AUDIOBOOK FICTION

A r c h i t e c t u r e

A THEORY OF EXPANDED LOVE

S H E D

I T

E T

2022

U I

R

I S

G

O

D

N

F A

V

/

R e s i d e n t i a l

Inspiration and answers for people wanting to live more sustainably in a smaller house while respecting the environment and saving money on energy and maintenance.

“I have never laughed so hard. Judy Blume, Lena Dunham and Jennifer Weiner, move over!” --JDC Must-Read Books

TO ORDER AUDIOBOOK ON CHIRPBOOKS: https://www.chirpbooks.com/audiobooks/a-theory-of-expanded-love-by-caitlin-hicks https://www.caitlinhicks.com/wordpress/theory-expanded-love-hilarious-beguiling-bravely-truthful/ awards-for-popular-1st-novel-best-inspirational-fiction/

AWARD 2

Audiobook: $9.99 ASIN: B09M7SQBDL or ISBN: 978-1777870805 www.amazon.com/dp/B09NRJT1G9 ISBN: 978-1611531312

www.IndependentPressAward.com

B u i l d i n g s

by Sheri Koones

Rebel Catholic daughter. Huge military family.

Sixties. Feel-good fiction. Humorous, awardwinning novel.

AWARD

/

$2500

Bigger Than Tiny, Smaller Than Average

Caitlin Hicks

I

D E S I G N

Love’s Legacy:

Lee Fearnside

ISBN: 978-1732096455 •

C O V E R

$1699

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Available everywhere books are sold • sherikoones.com

ISBN: 978-1423658450 •

30

$3500

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2

0 2

W I N

$1695

Written by Trudy Ludwig, Illustrated by Kathryn Otoshi

Inspired by the Wind Telephone in Japan, this poignant story explores the stages of grief, the healing power of hope, and the unbreakable family bonds that connect us all. From the acclaimed author of The Invisible Boy and the award-winning illustrator of One. In a small village in Japan, a family mourns the loss of their loved one. Each family member grieves in their own way, but it is not until they discover an old-fashioned telephone booth on a windswept hill that they begin to heal. Through the telephone, they are able to express feelings long bottled up--speaking directly to their loved one and also to each other. Slowly but surely, the pain subsides, and hope blossoms anew.

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers.

Available at Amazon • https://www.valwrightconsulting.com/rapidgrowthdoneright

$15

42

ISBN: 978-0593426401 •

B U S I N E S S - G E N E R A L

C H I L D R E N S

Thoughtfully Ruthless

This new version of The Global Kid takes you into the world of global affairs – in the virtual and augmented realms! Through the female superhero character Tanya and her canine sidekick Lucky, it entertains and educates kids age 8-12+ about the world’s biggest challenges and kids’ role in tackling them.

T

$2500

E D I S

I T

S H E D

F A

V

C H I L D R E N S :

Words That Work: R

2022

U I

ISBN: 979-8743254873 • ASIN: B09NRG53MJ •

B U S I N E S S - G E N E R A L

T

O

G

R

I S

N

Available on Amazon. • www.theglobalkid.org

Available at Amazon • https://www.valwrightconsulting.com/thoughtfullyruthless

$1500

E D U C A T I O N A L

New Moon’s Family

Communicate Your Purpose, Your Profits and Your Performance

Erika Adams and Eric Soderstrom

Val Wright

Inspired by the phases of the moon, New Moon’s Family is a rhyming story about how loved ones are always in your heart, no matter how far away they might feel.

Leaders benefit from the strategies, language and tools of CEOs who know how to speak the right language at the right time. But Words That Work does more than that. It calls on leaders to challenge the ‘usual’ business conversations. Val Wright turns a number of familiar communication approaches on their head, and shows the reader how to question, contest and change traditional language skilfully and persuasively.

Paired with an expository section, this whimsical moon story is an enlightening astronomy book for kids and a wonderful gift for long-distance families!

Available at Amazon • https://www.valwrightconsulting.com/words-that-work

www.IndependentPressAward.com

AWARD

O

D I

I T

E

You can adopt the habits, skills, and practices of some of the most successful business leaders of our time.

ISBN: 978-1398603332 •

C O M I C S

The World’s First VR/AR Political Comic Book Dr. Maha Hosain Aziz

Lays out the secret to rapid business growth by showing you how to unbelievably invent more time, catapult your energy, and boost the productivity of your resources. Thoughtfully Ruthless reveals how to create explosive growth!

V

/

$1899

THE GLOBAL KID:

Val Wright

F A

R

C H I L D R E N S

Wright explains how every leader can evaluate their current strategy and quickly adjust it to the realities of today. When they get it exactly right, these organizations deliver creative and innovative products that customers love. Based on the author’s own coaching and consulting, and using case studies and interviews with executives from a range of organizations, large and small, including Mars, Xbox, Starbucks, Amazon and the Los Angeles Rams

S H E D

$1995

Calling the Wind: A Story of Healing and Hope

Val Wright

2022

EVERY FALL

ISBN: 979-8773217626 •

Rapid Growth Done Right

U I

S H E D

“While reading this book, I felt as if I were there, experiencing the storm and tension in real time.” Joanne Cassell, R.N.

2022 N E R

2

B U S I N E S S - G E N E R A L

G

2022 F A V

U I

Available on Amazon. • https://www.terriarthur.com/

Available at Ingram and Amazon • go.unity.org/giftguide

N

G

Terri Arthur R.N.

AWARD

AWARD I

N

A provocative, inspiring and gripping true account of the survival of a Red Cross nurse and her patients during one of the most deadly winter storms to hit the east coast. It gives an account of good intentions, erratic bosses, mounting surprises and unforeseen circumstances that swirl out of control.

Author Jim Blake writes from a voice of experience in this pithy, portable book with commonsense ideas for aligning business practices with ancient spiritual principles. Learn to navigate the business world from a higher perspective and bring your whole self to work.

ISBN: 978-1119222576 •

AWARD

Power Failure A Nurse’s Story

Gems of Wisdom for Enlightened Leadership Jim Blake

ISBN: 978-1789664058 •

W I N

C A R E G I V I N G

The Zen Executive:

ISBN: 978-0871594174 •

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

L E A D E R S H I P

0 2

O

2

T

B U S I N E S S

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

Available at Amazon and Itasca Books. https://www.elatales.com/

$21

98

ISBN: 978-1592986309 •

31

$1795

www.nycbigbookaward.com

N O N F I C T I O N

S H E D

F A

G

R

2022 F A V

U I

S H E D

EVERY FALL S P I R I T UA L

It ran in her family, until it ran into her.

She was the cycle breaker.

I T

V

The Nurse Florence® book series provides high quality medical information that even a child can grasp.

By introducing young kids to correct terminology and science concepts at an early age, we can help increase our children’s health literacy level as well as help to prepare them for courses and jobs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. We need more scientists so I hope that many children will enjoy this book series.

What does it mean to be a cycle breaker? In Generations Deep, author and licensed professional counselor Gina Birkemeier uses her own personal story to illustrate how unaddressed dysfunction and trauma can create emotional wounds and toxic beliefs that are passed down from one generation to the next. Gina shares the story of inherited trauma and dysfunction that echoed through four generations of her family, demonstrating this profound truth: what isn’t repaired gets repeated. Often in ways we never could have imagined.

AWARD 2

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Available on Amazon, most online booksellers. https://www.itsmyoutloudvoice.com/

Available at Amazon

ISBN: 978-1257906673 •

N

Gina Birkemeier LPC

E T

2022

U I

R

I S

G

O

D

N

S E L F - H E L P

AWARD

Unmasking Inherited Dysfunction and Trauma to Rewrite Our Stories Through Faith and Therapy

Michael Dow AWARD

/

W I N

Generations Deep:

Nurse Florence, I’m Having Trouble Sleeping I

G R OW T H

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

P E R S O N A L

0 2

O

2

T

C H I L D R E N S :

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

$1898

ISBN: 978-1732954526 •

C H I L D R E N S

C H R I S T I A N

William’s Wondering Week

$1495

N O N F I C T I O N

Salt & Light; The Complete Jesus

Jacqueline Klouda

Jonathan Geoffrey Dean

What does Mom do all day while you’re at school?

In this adorable and innocent children’s book, William begins wondering what his mother does all day while he’s at school.

He comes up with various different activities, wondering if she’s playing video games or going to the zoo. He just assumes that she is having fun without him. However, William soon learns that he doesn’t have to wonder anymore – he just has to ask his mother what she does all day!

AWARD 2

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Salt & Light; The Complete Jesus is the highly acclaimed and award-winning definitive statement concerning Jesus of Nazareth, history’s most compelling figure. It is the most crucial advance in understanding the Historical Jesus in the last 30 years.

They talk about it, and William realizes that his mother is not having fun while he’s at school; she’s actually working very hard on cleaning, laundry, and other not-so-fun activities.

With this new information, the two are able to bond and understand each other better.

Available on Amazon. https://www.jacquelineklouda.com/

ISBN: 978-1684010905 • C H R I S T I A N

Available everywhere. • www.saltandlight.ca

Paperback: 978-1-7782504-0-8 Hardcover: 978-1-7782504-2-2 eBook: 978-1-7782504-1-5 $22.99

$1495

N O N F I C T I O N

C O M E D Y

All Will Be Well:

Receiving The Keys To Strengthen Your Faith Bukky Agboola

Giant Banana Over Texas: Darkly Humorous Tales

In All Will Be Well: Receiving The Keys To Strengthen Your Faith, Bukky Agboola gives us powerful and proven spiritual keys to overcoming life’s challenges. Using scriptural references and personal insights, Agboola’s small but mighty book gives us the courage and assurance to triumph over adversity and live our best lives. Here you will

Mark Nutter

Learn how Biblical faith works

AWARD 2

Gain fresh insights into avoiding pitfalls on your spiritual journey Discover how Jesus, Jochebed, Daniel, and others responded to challenging circumstances and were richly blessed as a result Receive help, hope, and encouragement for both the good and the bad times All will be well!

Available on Amazon • https://bukkymusic.com/books

ISBN: 978-1733565257 • C H R I S T I A N

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Search for the People of the Temporary Tattoo.

Examine the tortured mind of the Mad Stock Boy. Thrill to the exploits of the Hugging Detective.

Cower in fear of the Grateful Man. These adventures and more await you in Giant Banana Over Texas: Darkly Humorous Tales, a collection of thirty-one short stories, perfect for fans of absurd comedy. Monty Python meets Douglas Adams meets Salvador Dali.

Available at Amazon • www.marknutter.com

$14

99

ISBN: 978-1667826660 •

Megge of Bury Down: The Bury Down Chronicles, Book One

Miyoshi Umeki Gordon

Rebecca Kightlinger

Some things are not only tough to endure but equally challenging to communicate. Miyoshi Umeki Gordon was raised to be strong and confident. However, there came a time in her life when her faith and strength were challenged. Faced with the choice to suffer in silence or speak her truth, the author chose to ‘let go and let God.’ Miyoshi grew up in a loving and caring environment.

The values her parents instilled, and her faith in God are what sustained the author when life seemed bleak and hopeless. Fueled by the love and desire to parent her only son well, the author persevered through her emotional and physical pain to live out God’s purpose for her life. This book is her story of triumph.

It is midnight in Bury Down grove, known for a thousand years as the Land of the Second Sight, and young Megge has just come of age to receive her birthright: an ancient tome whose encrypted incantations summon the power of Bury Down. If she accepts, then her mother, the Healer of Bury Down, will teach her to wield power beyond her imagination. If she refuses, her mother will die by flame, and the power will be lost. Daunted by the sacred rite but wanting only to take her place as a true woman of Bury Down, Megge reaches for the book. But when she touches its wooden cover, a coarse voice whispers, “Murderer.”

Available at all book retailers * Amazon * Audible.com * Barnes & Noble https://www.burydownchronicles.com BOOKSTORES AND LIBRARIANS: https://www.burydownchronicles.com/for-booksellers-and-librarians.html Ingram: 55% trade discount, returns accepted.

Available at Amazon • www.miyoshigordon.com

ISBN: 978-1951883324 •

$1583

HISTORICAL FICTION

N O N F I C T I O N

Broken But Still A Masterpiece

www.IndependentPressAward.com

0 2

$2473

ISBN: 978-1734316803 • $1699

32

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Some Haiku-Inspired Essays to Brighten Your Day

Laura Lee Bond

I T

E T

S H E D

R

I S

2022

U I

F A

V

Accompanying essays included in this volume, give us a deeper dive into the author’s insights and her writing process. The Love Around Us is a bright delight.

ISBN: 978-1736096505 • C R O S S

$1299

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

I T R

O

After the first black supervisor in a Texas oil refinery is murdered, there’s a damning confession—but the witness will never testify.

A tale of murder, sex, racial conflict, and labor strife on the Texas Gulf Coast in 1980.

Over our years of dowsing and clearing “sick” homes, offices, factories and farms, some close survivor of a victim has always said “If Only I Had Known.” Silent Killer was written to help teach people how to protect themselves and their loved ones from a phenomenon called Geopathic Stress.

What Seems True was inspired by a true crime that took place in Port Arthur, TX, in 1979. It’s also a story of fraught relationships of workers—white and black, male and female—in a gritty industrial setting on the Gulf Coast in 1980, a time where the 1964 Civil Rights Act still provided minorities and women only a glimmer of hope for workplace equality.

Geopathic stress is soft, gentle and deceptive. It can take months for people to know they are in the clutches of the Silent Killer.

Learn various ways of combating this energy, and how dowsers can clear homes and buildings permanently. This book is for everyone who desires a safe environment so that they never have to say: “If only I had known.”

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo and online booksellers. • www.robert-egby.com

&

$16

99

ISBN: 978-0984866489 • E P I C

D Y I N G

$2299

F A N TA S Y

Trine Rising; Book 1 of 3: The Kinderra Saga C.K. Donnelly

Cheryl Lafferty Eckl

While Cheryl Lafferty Eckl navigated her deep grief after the passing of her husband and twin flame, Stephen, many experiences proved to her that love transcends death. Through inspirational stories, poetry and meditations, she shares her ongoing relationship with Stephen’s spirit, and the powerful lessons she learned by listening to the unfailing guidance of her Wise Inner Counselor. Cheryl invites readers to discover: Loss is for our learning, Grief is for our transformation, and Joy is waiting to bring us Home to our True Self.

W I N

$1995

The Silent Killer Below:

from loss through grief to joy

2022 N E R

NATIONAL PARKS our LIVING TREASURE: A Time For Concern

E N V I R O N M E N T

Reflections on Ineffable Love:

2

S H E D

Hunting and Healing Geopathic Stress Robert D. Egby

D E A T H

0 2

2022 F A V

U I

James Garrison

ISBN: 978-1952816567 •

2

G

E N V I R O N M E N T

G E N R E

Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and local bookstores. • https://jamesgarritson-author.com/

AWARD

N

EVERY FALL

ISBN: 978-1642374971 •

What Seems True

2

AWARD

Available on Amazon

Available on Amazon • www.lauraleebond.com

AWARD

W I N

Dr. Lusk provides a first-hand honest account of how many resources and experiences were managed in the system, and asks the question if future generations benefit from a system unimproved or compromised. Lusk sounds the alarm and provides specific sections dealing with his concerns for the future and the changes he feels needed to bring the Service back to its prime.

O

D

G

I

2022 N E R

2

Dedicated to the tens of millions of users and friends of the National Parks Service, this book addresses the Service’s critical need to update and change its approach to protection and use of resources managed.

Wending through familiar human experiences, Laura Lee Bond’s poetry oscillates between the refined and the raw, between the visceral and the mystical, and between the harrowing and the humorous. Written with striking relatability to our own humanity, Laura Lee’s words swirl around us, ripple and expand outward, as we stand reading on the shore, each haiku gently lapping at our own reflections.

N

0 2

Dr. Gil Lusk

There is so much love all around us, in both the momentous and the mundane.

AWARD

E

G E N R E

The Love Around Us:

I

2

T

C R O S S

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

AWARD 2

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

When Mirana receives alarming premonitions of an enemy attack on Kinderra, she is forced to reveal that she is a Trine to warn them of the impending assault. As the Kinderrans fight, Mirana must decide if using her powers will aid her people—or will bring them more peril.

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. https://www.cheryleckl.com

ISBN: 978-1734645095 •

Not all gifts are blessings…16 year-old Mirana Pinal possesses all three magical powers of the Aspects. She has terrifying visions, however, that if she wields her powers, her homeland of Kinderra will be destroyed—through her.

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online booksellers • ckdonnelly.com

$1695

ISBN: 978-1735051833 •

E D U C AT I O N

E P I C

The Art of Being a School Counselor

$1795

F A N TA S Y

Trine Fallacy; Book 2 of 3:

Nancy L. Regas M.S., M.F.T., P.P.S.

The Kinderra Saga

Are you thinking about school counseling as a profession or just starting as a school counselor? Okay, maybe you’re already an established school counselor; congratulations! However, are you feeling stuck, lost, or frustrated in your present position? If you answer yes to either question, this book is definitely for you. Enjoy your journey towards a personal and professional reawakening!

C.K. Donnelly

As the Dark Trine’s noose tightens around Kinderra, young Trine Mirana Pinal and her mentor, the Trine hero Tetric Garis, embark on a quest.

AWARD 2

HINT: This book is NOT just for counselors; it’s for educators and parents too.

If you are an administrator, this book will help you understand the role of a counselor; correctly utilizing your counseling staff will increase the effectiveness of your school.

If you are a teacher, this book will help you comprehend the multiple roles of counselors and guide you in working collaboratively with them. Enjoy your journey towards becoming the best educator possible!

Finally, parents, you can use this book too! It will help you understand what it takes for your son/daughter [in middle school or high school] to be a successful student.

When you grasp that, your guidance will become more impactful.

Together, we all help our students reach their potential!

www.IndependentPressAward.com

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Teague Beltran, Mirana’s beloved apprentice, wants nothing more than to kill the Dark Trine himself. As one born without magical powers, he is forbidden to take up arms in battle. His confrontation with the Dark Trine’s forces may force him to sacrifice his healing oath. Mirana fears using her Aspects with the Light from Within will not be enough to save her people.

Both must answer their true calling but each choice may leave them—and Kinderra—without hope.

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online booksellers • ckdonnelly.com

Available at Outskirts Press, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, Barnes & Noble https://outskirtspress.com/TheArtofBeingaSchoolCounselor

ISBN: 978-1977235961 •

0 2

$1795

ISBN: 978-1735051840 •

33

$1895

www.nycbigbookaward.com

F A N TA S Y

T

$1795

G

2022

U I

S H E D

F A

V

ISBN: 978-1-955893-00-8 • G E N E R A L

Chasing Rabbits With an important test quickly approaching, Rudy is sure he is more than up to the challenge. Nevertheless a forthcoming trial unrelated to his academic abilities will test his very soul.

Rodolfo Del Toro

O

R

I T

E

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. https://www.birthofthefae.com/copy-of-home-1

ISBN: 978-1644504116 •

N

G

2022

U I

R

AWARD

O

I

I T

E

The two Courts were both upholding their respective duties as written by the Treaty of Bodhicitta, until Queen Mary the first of England reneges. This unfortunate act puts events in motion which led to the last Fire Drake, Bishop Awynn, making the ultimate sacrifice. Awynn loses his light while saving The Dark Fae King during a tense standoff with Queen Aurora.

Queen Aurora swears revenge upon Mary for Awynn’s death and issues the same warning she gave her Father, King Henry the Eighth, so many years ago. However, King Jarvok had his own point of view on Queen Aurora’s vengeance and pays Aurora a visit to deliver his critique of her technique, leading to a knock-down drag-out fight between the two Fae monarchs.

Both Leaders refuse to bow even if it means certain Oblivion...

V

F A

S H E D

V

$16

ISBN: 978-1733781947 • G E N E R A L

The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper

S H E D

I T

E T

2022

U I

R

I S

G

O

D

N

F A

V

$375

F I C T I O N

The Glimpse

Mary K. Savarese AWARD

As a driven fourth year medical student, Rudy Dell is all about school standing. Having previously scheduled a non-demanding clerkship to complete his studies; an unexpected turn of events finds him assigned to the Oncology unit of the University Pediatric Hospital.

On unfamiliar territory and answering to a demanding attending physician, things are not as expected.

Available exclusively in Amazon, Print and ebook. • Find me on Instagram @del_356

99

F A N T A S Y

I

F I C T I O N

Queen Aurora and King Jarvok are finding that there is a thin line between love, hate, and Oblivion. The war between the Court of Light and Dark has finally ended, and peace reigns.

T

T

F A

$1599

From the Ashes, Book Three Danielle M. Orsino

I S

I S

S H E D

R

E I S

N

I T

D

AWARD

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. www.antoniagavrihel.com

D

D

2022

U I

F I C T I O N

Cate & Kyle have the perfect friendship—deep, lasting, and platonic. Friendship without sex? The world of gossip doesn’t buy it. Cate is beautiful, trusting, and married. Kyle is a single, handsome movie star with a tabloid reputation. Will the boundaries created to protect their enduring friendship ultimately destroy it?

Birth of the Fae:

G

W O M E N ’ S

Journalist Reviewer I

F A N TA S Y

N

EVERY FALL

The award-winning first novel in the Back to One series of books. “A story of complex relationships, expertly told in a memorable and beautiful read—leaves a desire to know more after the last page has been turned.”

ISBN: 978-1735051888 •

AWARD

S H E D

Antonia Gavrihel

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online booksellers • ckdonnelly.com

I

2022 F A V

U I

R

W I N

G

C.K. Donnelly

Mirana Pinal must use her Trine Aspects to save the man she once worshipped, but she could surrender her own path to redemption if she does. If she unleashes the power of Jasal’s Keep to save Kinderra from the Dark Trine, it may demand she sacrifice her beloved Teague Beltran—and far more.

2022 N E R

2

N

O

0 2

AWARD

Back to One

Now is the moment of choice...

2

W I N

Trine Revelation; Book 3 of 3: The Kinderra Saga

AWARD

F R I E N D S H I P,

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

R O M A N C E ,

0 2

O

2

T

E P I C

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

Lis Bensley

Want fantasy, adventure, romance? Promised to another, her heart chose true love. Betrayed by an evil noble, she became The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper.

AWARD 2

Tyler must rescue the girl of his dreams or forever be imprisoned inside the wallpaper of time while running from an evil wizard.

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

The Glimpse is a moving, unsentimental tale of the charged New York art world of the 1950s and the relationship between a mother and daughter as they grapple with their relationship that becomes pivotal to their artwork.

Will Lily be doomed forever more?

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble • www.maryksavarese.com

$1995

Available at Amazon • www.lisbensley.com

ISBN: 978-1953278210 PAPERBACK • ASIN: B09HXS9B3K • ISBN: Hardcover 978-1953278203

ISBN: 978-1800462953 •

F A N TA S Y

HISTORICAL FICTION

Megge of Bury Down:

True Teryn

The Bury Down Chronicles, Book One

Rebecca Kightlinger

S.G. Blaise

It is midnight in Bury Down grove, known for a thousand years as the Land of the Second Sight, and young Megge has just come of age to receive her birthright: an ancient tome whose encrypted incantations summon the power of Bury Down. If she accepts, then her mother, the Healer of Bury Down, will teach her to wield power beyond her imagination. If she refuses, her mother will die by flame, and the power will be lost. Daunted by the sacred rite but wanting only to take her place as a true woman of Bury Down, Megge reaches for the book. But when she touches its wooden cover, a coarse voice whispers, “Murderer.”

Lilla must recruit the most dangerous army in the Seven Galaxies, but the Teryn emperor will not comply unless Lilla earns the blessing of the Teryn Guardian Goddess Laoise. Will Lilla survive discovering the secret of what it means to be a True Teryn?

T

G

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

N

O

D

AWARD

I T

E

“A stellar intergalactic sci-fi ride with a whole lot of thriller thrown in for page-turning pleasure.”

--Kelly M 5-Star Amazon Review I

F A

$1383

V

Available at all book retailers * Amazon * Audible.com * Barnes & Noble https://www.burydownchronicles.com BOOKSTORES AND LIBRARIANS: https://www.burydownchronicles.com/for-booksellers-and-librarians.html Ingram: 55% trade discount, returns accepted.

Available on Amazon, Kobo, Apple, Google, B&N, Ingram. https://sgblaise.com/

ISBN: 978-1734760545• $2.99 for ebook; $17.99 for paperback

www.IndependentPressAward.com

ISBN: 978-1734316803 • $1699

34

www.nycbigbookaward.com

The Lady of the Cliffs: The Bury Down Chronicles, Book Two

2022

U I

S H E D

I T

E T

G

R

I S

N

O

D

AWARD F A

V

G R OW T H

/

W I N

S E L F - H E L P

N

I T R

AWARD

2022 F A V

O

I

2022 N E R

2

G

U I

S H E D

EVERY FALL

S P I R I T UA L

Generations Deep: Write Your Healing Story

Rebecca Kightlinger

I

E

P E R S O N A L

0 2

T

HISTORICAL FICTION

2

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

AWARD

D

LAST

Gina Birkemeier LPC

Now nearly seventeen, Megge and her cousin Brighida must endure another brutal loss. As they perform the rites of transition that precede a burial, Megge falls under the spell of silken voice that beckons her back to the cliffs of Kernow, which she has seen only in dreams. But when the tales of an old woman, a stranger to Bury Down, conjure those cliffs, Megge embarks on a journey that leads to a secluded cove they call The Sorrows and a mystical destiny none of the women of Bury Down could have foreseen.

This journal is rich with exercises to boost your selfcare, inspiring quotes and verses, room to add photos, drawings, and your own progress notes to use with a counselor, pastor or even friends. It is an essential tool in your own journey to breaking cycles, slaying shame and finding freedom.

And because a journey like this is often best when shared, the Generations Deep Write Your Healing Story Journal is designed to work for groups, as well as individuals. It invites you to rewrite your story through faith and therapy in a way that not only helps you heal but empowers you to offer a new legacy for the generations after you.

Available at all book retailers * Amazon * Audible.com * Barnes & Noble https://www.burydownchronicles.com

Available on Amazon, most online booksellers. https://www.itsmyoutloudvoice.com/

BOOKSTORES AND LIBRARIANS: https://www.burydownchronicles.com/for-booksellers-and-librarians.html Ingram: 55% trade discount, returns accepted.

ISBN: 978-1734316834 • $1699

ISBN: 978-1732954540 •

$1299

J O U R N A L S

H I S T O R Y

Soldier of Rome:

Worthy of Wonder

March to Oblivion

Kaitlin Osman

James Mace

In 92 A.D. a young, idealistic tribune named Tiberius Artorius Castus arrives at Legio XXI, Rapax, in Pannonia.

Within months, indigenous tribesmen openly rebel, supported by thousands of their kinsmen north of the Danube and a host of Rhoxolani heavy cavalry. Cut off, hopelessly outnumbered, and with reinforcements still a month away, Tiberius and the legion steel themselves for battle. They march to either victorious redemption, or the cold embrace of oblivion.

This self-discovery journal is filled with writing prompts, coloring pages, spiritual quotes, and creative exercises to help you discover the Divine within and revel in your unique wonderfulness. The softcover spiral-bound notebook is the perfect tool for guiding your journaling, reflection, and self-care practices.

www.facebook.com/legionarybooks Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online booksellers

Available at New Leaf Distributing, Ingram, Amazon • go.unity.org/giftguide

ISBN: 979-8836869403 ASIN: B0B23YR22T Purchase Price: $4.99 (Kindle eBook), $16.95 (paperback)

ISBN: 978-0871594136 •

H O L I D A Y - C H I L D R E N S

J U V E N I L E

Grumpy Goes Home For The Holiday

2022

U I

S H E D

I T

E T

G

R

I S

N

F A

Tany Fyfe

Grumpy has decided that it is time for him to go home for the Holidays. He plans to surprise his parents and little sister, who he has not seen in many years. Mr. Squirrel has helped Grumpy choose the perfect gifts to take with him for his family, and The Green Parrot has made sure that Grumpy has a bus ticket (and that he gets to the bus station on time).

What will happen once Grumpy reaches his destination in the Florida Keys? Will his family be surprised to see him?

You do not want to miss this very special and heartwarming Christmas story.

O

D

AWARD

V

AWARD 2

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers.

SusanMarieChapman.com

ISBN: 978-1734542950 •

Tanya Fyfe has been creating the Missing Lake series for several years after publishing Lost and Found in Missing Lake in 2014. The talented illustrator, Ben Brick came on board for The Dragons of Missing Lake and Secrets Abound in Missing Lake. The series introduces a modern blended family living in rural Montana where they eventually get to meet a dragon family. The fantasy weaves in with the real life fictional story in a very believable way. This is a series of hope, love and friendship while also being a story about caring for others. It is about being more than just yourself, which comes at a crucial time in our planet’s history.

Available at Amazon • www.tanyafyfe.com

$2199

ISBN: 979-8681416005 •

I N S P I R AT I O N & P E R S O N A L G R O W T H / J O U R N A L S

L G B T Q

F I C T I O N

Anxiety, Anger, Activism

Robert A. Karl

A Journal for Conscious Living Wendy Craig-Purcell

Experience the drama, the beauty, and the excitement as well as the music, fashion and fads of the 80s.

Set in Philadelphia from 1982 to 1992, Club Sanctuary, dealing with the AIDS epidemic, steps up activism while still having plenty of sex.

In this guided journal, Wendy Craig-Purcell shares 101 intentional practices as prompts for your thoughts and to nourish your spiritual journey.

T

N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

AWARD

O

D I

I T

E

Used alone or as part of a daily meditation practice, Just for Today: A Journal for Conscious Living offers a powerful tool to write, sketch, bullet journal, or vision board your way to a more conscious way of living.

F A

V

The main setting, Club Sanctuary, can be seen as a metaphor for the greater LGBTQ community, but it is written as a real place, with characters who are fabulous, funny and flawed.

The author combines historical characters and events with fictional ones, creating a story that’s entertaining, informative and emotional. The love story between the two main characters, Joey and Henry, serves as a vehicle for connecting the stories of diverse, Queer characters.

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. https://www.robertkarlauthor.com/

Available at New Leaf Distributing, Ingram, Amazon • go.unity.org/giftguide

ISBN: 978-0871594006 •

$1600

CLUBBED TWO:

Just for Today:

www.IndependentPressAward.com

F I C T I O N

The Runaways of Missing Lake

Susan Marie Chapman

I

$2195

$2295

ISBN: 978-1736518151 •

35

$1299

www.nycbigbookaward.com

S E L F - H E L P :

J. Ronald M. York

I T

2022 F A V

U I

S H E D

Available through St. Broadway Press LLC or Amazon https://jronaldmyork.com

ISBN: 978-0998273440 •

$29

L G B T Q

95

Annette Densham

A memoir packed with raw emotion that brings you straight into the story. There are moments you wince at the searing shock of what transpired, the audacity of family betrayal, and the heartwrenching disappointment of career sabotage.You’ll cheer at the triumphs of teenage life and cringe at the tragedies of adulthood as Annette’s life is laid bare. It’s truths will burn you to the core, it’s tragedies so visceral they’ll make you squirm, and the moments of exaltation are smack-down satisfying. It’s a bouquet of unforgettable mini-plots woven into an incredible memoir of triumph and tragedy, so real, and so honest it will stay with you.

G

2022

U I

S H E D

I T

E T

N

R

I S

AWARD

O

D I

F A

V

Up there with Trent Dalton’s Boy Swallows Universe, this Australian coming-of-age story will jolt you and delight you in equal measures.

Available at Amazon • annettedensham.com

ISBN: 978-1646634699 •

$14

95

ISBN: 978-0645178012 •

F I C T I O N

Paris Blue:

David Benjamin

A Memoir of First Love

Saint Paul, Private Eye! It is written that Jesus, on the cross, cried out, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”

Julie Scolnik

“Not every true story is like a good novel, but this one is. Not every memoir of first love has a satisfying ending, but this one does. The confluence of first love with becoming an artist makes this memoir special.” —John Irving

Was this all? Who was present to hear him? His disciples had fled in fear. Was a secret revealed at the Crucifixion — lost forever because there was no one to bear witness?

E D I S T

I

M A G I C A L

N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

$1467

$1799

I N S P I R A T I O N A L / M O T I V A T I O N A L

Your Honor, Your Honor:

Prophecy of Love

A Journey Through Grief to Restorative Justice

T. Satterfield

Judge Leonia J. Lloyd

Good guy Gabe Mendes thinks understanding love will make him happy. So he’s made a deal.

In 1949, twin sisters came into this world surprising everybody including their parents and the doctor because he had heard only one heartbeat.

In exchange for access to the universe of love, he agrees to slay the black ram. But soon he learns, being unlucky in love isn’t his only problem. Turns out—love isn’t what he thinks it is.

On a path ordered by God, these twins touched the lives of many in their roles as teachers, attorneys, and judges. The rocky road they followed to achieve these professions was God’s way of preparing them for life.

T

N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

AWARD

O

D I

I T

E

Written in the genre of magical realism, this hero’s journey to spiritual awakening is a romantic adventure of self-discovery packed with historic, scientific, and cultural information. Demystifying love while still embracing the mystical, Prophecy of Love is the perfect good story for every curious, big-hearted, lover of love.

F A

V

Lost and alone, Leonia was in the storm of her life; despair had an iron-clad grip around her. She turned to God for guidance, and her prayers were answered. Your Honor, Your Honor chronicles her life experiences including her relationship with her twin, her struggles against racism, her account of the grieving process, and her stride toward justice.

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. www.JudgeLeonia.com

Available at Amazon • https://www.prophecyoflove.com

www.IndependentPressAward.com

V

ISBN: 978-1646634699 •

R E A L I S M

ISBN: 978-1737786207 •

F A

PARIS, 1976: Twenty-year-old American student Julie Scolnik arrives in the City of Light to study the flute when, from across a sea of faces in the chorus of the Orchestre de Paris, she is drawn to Luc, a striking (married) French lawyer in the bass section.

A deeply felt, bittersweet reflection on how youthful passion changes you and clings to you forever, PARIS BLUE is a true fairy-tale memoir with a dark underbelly about the tenacious grip of first love.

www.amazon.com/Paris-Blue-Memoir-First-Love/dp/1646634713 • www.JulieScolnik.com

Available at Amazon • www.lastkidbooks.com

ISBN: 978-1627203258 •

AWARD

I T

V

R

T

F A

O

I T

E

Paul, who once tormented the followers of Jesus, suffers visions of the Crucifixion. He’s haunted by its secret. After fleeing near-death in Damascus, Paul begins a quest for one witness who can solve... ... the Golgotha murder mystery

R

I S

S H E D

O

D

2022

U I

$2200

M E M O I R

Witness to the Crucifixion

G

R

How To Eat A Shit Sandwich & Keep Smiling

Jack Fritscher, PhD, who stayed true to his friend to the scandalous end, is the perfect eyewitness in this candid documentary memoir of gay history.

A fascinating, witty, and wise story of leather lives well lived from the 1950s to 2008.

N

$916

M E M O I R

A lively memoir of West Hollywood author-activist-influencer Larry Townsend whose signature Leatherman’s Handbook was a founding text for gay men worldwide in the 20th century.

Townsend wrote: “...a definitive exploration of the gay S&M leather scene...written by a qualified writer who has observed it all from the inside.”

AWARD

S P I R I T U A L

N O N F I C T I O N

Jack Fritscher, PhD

I

S H E D

EVERY FALL

ISBN: 978-0996614467 •

The Life and Times of the Legendary Larry Townsend

L I T E R A R Y

2022 F A V

U I

Available at Amazon • https://larada.wixsite.com/author

HARDCOVER

Available on Amazon

G

Readers are encouraged to think about how the pandemic affected them and how they adapted. To be used as a journal, a safe keeping place to revisit 2020.

Horner-Miller records spiritual discoveries and renewed spiritual growth, a transformative process leading her to find a reconnection with her “God.” Her emotions ran deep from fear, struggle, and despair going deeper into her faith, ultimately making Horner-Miller a better, not a bitter person.

E T

G

N

Winner of the 2022 New Mexico/Arizona Book Award in the Body, Mind & Spirit category.

R

I S

N

AWARD

Larada Horner-Miller

O

D

AWARD

W I N

Coronavirus Reflections: Bitter or Better?

Multi-award-winning memoir of family secrets, hidden sins, and growing up gay in 1960s Nashville.

I

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

LGBTQ NONFICTION

Songs from an Imperfect Life

0 2

T

2

O

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

$1299

ISBN: 978-166320184 •

36

$1999

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 N E R W I N

ISBN: 978-1639881062 •

$1799

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. https://www.davemasonwrites.com/

ISBN: 978-1944653231 •

Oran Brucks

Seven O’clock Man

“Oran Brucks captures the heart of young America. In its infancy, America brims with settlers, all full of life, hope, and Freedom” Readers Favorite Awards

A new breed of homeless is changing the face of Skid Row. Someone is hunting them. Who is the Seven o’Clock Man and how can one strung-out junkie stop him?

T

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

G

I T

E

“This brave tale of freedom and liberty features unforgettable characters who are elaborately written, prose that is elegant and evocative, and a setting that transports readers to a period in US history in US history that was rocked by war” --The Book Commentary

O

D

N

F A

I T

Justin DiPego

“A wonderfully powerful tale of human triumph in the time of great political and societal unrest... engaging tale showcases the power of the human spirit against all odds” --The Indie Reader

AWARD

$1499

M Y S T E R Y

F I C T I O N

Hurrah for Liberty

I

R

Available on Amazon • https://michaelstephendaigle.com/

ISBN: 978-1735706412 Paperback $13.02 • Hardcover $21.99 • Kindle $4.99 Free with Kindle Unlimited • Free with Amazon Prime Reading

M I L I TA R Y

O

Dragony Rising, the fifth Frank Nagler mystery, is the most complex story in the series. An explosion that levels part of downtown Ironton, N.J. is not even the most horrific event that Detective Frank Nagler must confront. As he peels away the layers of the actions taken by the shadowy organization called the Dragony, Nagler ponders not just his own past, but a future that threatens the existence of Ironton itself.

E T

V

$1695

Michael Stephen Daigle

I T R

I S

F A

S H E D

Death in Potter’s Woods:

A Frank Nagler Novel - Book 5

“This is not just historical fiction, this is literature, in all its raw, sometimes visceral, moving, touching, heart-wrenching, visual, emotional, lush, brutal, beautiful, cinematic, and as-real-as-a-bookcan-get pages.” - DK Marley, The Historical Fiction Company

O

D

2022

S H E D

Dragony Rising:

Winner of 16 literary honors including Best Historical Fiction (2021 Reader’s Choice Awards) and the 2021 Hemingway Award for 20th Century Wartime Fiction, this novel has also been acquired for film and television.

U I

2022 F A V

U I

M Y S T E R Y

A story of love and loss, cruelty and kindness, guilt and redemption, EO-N’s sweeping narrative takes readers on a riveting journey—from the destruction and horror of war to the relentless pressures of contemporary corporate greed—weaving together five seemingly separate lives to remind us that individual actions matter and that courage comes in many forms.

G

G

M Y S T E R Y

F I C T I O N

Dave Mason

N

N

EVERY FALL

ISBN: 978-1643888354 •

EO-N

AWARD

AWARD

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. www.bettyjeancraige.org

Available at Amazon • https://GeorjaUmano.com

I

W I N

What is a town to do when “Robin Hood” threatens to kill its mayor and one or two others if three thousand of its citizens don’t donate $5,000 each to rectify the theft of gold and land from the Cherokees two hundred years ago? Death in Potter’s Woods, Betty Jean Craige’s fifth Witherston Murder Mystery, begins with this challenge.

The solution to two mysterious deaths—one in the present and the other two centuries ago—takes the protagonists from north Georgia to Alaska, where they find clues to the identity of Robin Hood in Inuit art.

Two pampered dogs from Santa Monica go to Africa with their guardian to help save endangered elephants. What could possibly go wrong? Story told by the dogs.

H I S T O R I C A L

I

2022 N E R

2

Betty Jean Craige

AWARD 2

0 2

A Witherston Murder Mystery

Georja Umano 0 2

E

G R A D E

Terriers in the Jungle, A Novel 2

2

T

M I D D L E

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

V

Available at Amazon.com, Audible.com, and Bookshop.com • DiPegoNow.com/Books

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online booksellers.

ISBN: 978-0228811961 • M I L I T A R Y

$1699

ISBN: 978-1976976223 •

F I C T I O N

N AT U R E - C H I L D R E N S

Mr. Robert’s Madagascar:

Seeing the Elephant:

A Tale of a Lost World Robert Bullock

One Man’s Return to the Horrors of the Civil War T.W. Harvey

WINNER—NYC Big Book Award, Children/Nature—2022.

FINALIST—National Indie Excellence Award, Nature—2022.

5-Stars Reviews: Readers’ Favorite, Reedsy Discovery Must Read, Indies Today.

One Man’s Return to the Horrors of the Civil War is a true story originally told in 180 letters written by Lieutenant Thomas S. Armstrong of the 122nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry about his experiences in the Civil War.

AWARD

T

G

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

N

O

D

AWARD

I T

E

2

I

F A

V

www.IndependentPressAward.com

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Mr. Robert’s Madagascar: A Tale of a Lost World is a story of exploring an unknown land—Madagascar—discovered on August 10, 1500, by Portuguese explorer Diogo Dias and his crew when blown off course. Through the purported lost ship logbook of Diogo Dias, young readers investigate the southeastern Madagascar beach and lowland rainforest habitats to detect some of the exotic plants and animals endemic to that ecosystem. This Wilderness Habitat Discovery Journal blends history, physical and natural science, and reading comprehension into an informative story. It is one of a book series describing wildlife habitats around the world.

Available on Amazon

Available at Amazon • TWHarvey.net

ISBN: 978-0692168486 •

$1299

$19

95

ISBN: 979-8210076717 •

37

$1974

www.nycbigbookaward.com

W I N

Sally Cole-Misch

$1695

R O M A N C E

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Share in the universal human experience with this thoughtful and poignant collection of poems about the journey of life. Moment by moment, life reveals itself in this masterful collection of poetry.

In these poems that carefully balance the light with the dark, Maurya skillfully reveals the thoughts and feelings that live in her heart. Simple, profound, and utterly heartfelt, Feelings Awakened is a poetry collection for readers who welcome the beauty of imperfection and the miracle of an ever - changing world. Prepare to be awakened to the universal. Coupled with striking illustrations, Feelings Awakened lives up to its name, both in the heart of the reader and the mind of the poet.

AWARD 2

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

-Kirkus Reviews

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. https://www.audible.com/pd/Nimue-Audiobook/B0937J6LR1

P A R E N T I N G

Twice a Daughter:

&

Available on Amazon. https://www.vibhamaurya.com/

$19

95

ISBN: 979-8569620890 • KINDLE

F A M I L Y

Questions for Water

V

I

T

P E R S O N A L

I S

ISBN: 978-1647420505 •

D

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. https://www.juliemcgueauthor.com

E

Julie’s search for her birth relatives spans years and involves a search agency, a PI, a confidential intermediary, a judge, an adoption agency, a social worker, and a genealogist. By journey’s end, what began as a simple desire for a family medical history has evolved into a complicated quest―one that unearths secrets, lies, and family members that are literally right next door.

AWARD N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

$16

G R O W T H

P O L I T I C A L

I T

E T

S H E D

R

I S

2022

U I

O

D

G

F A

V

AWARD 2

Available at Amazon • https://EmbodiedJournaling.com

www.IndependentPressAward.com

F I C T I O N

Political Dialogs Between 1789 and 2040 Werner Neff

The news, the fear, the media, the texts, the constant bombardment of electronic sludge. It can all tear you down and rip you away from being YOU! You can choose to give into this madness and be manipulated into submission. Or you can join the journaling power revolution, reconnect with your higher self, and love yourself without conditions. It’s time to manifest the selflove you have inside!

ISBN: 978-1098396930 •

$1299

What Would The Founding Fathers Tell Us Today?

Want the cure for culture chaos? Grab your pen and pad and prescribe yourself with “Mindset Medicine: A Journaling Power Self-Love Book.”

N

V

ISBN: 978-1627203258 •

A Journaling Power Self-Love Book Mari L. McCarthy

AWARD

F A

Crawford brings a lyrical voice and intimate perspective to the challenges faced by families worldwide. Whether she’s exploring fires that raged in Australia, racial injustices within the American legal system, or the search for a gun in her son’s Baltimore school, Crawford guides us all safely beyond the reach of dark times as she articulates her own fears. In the luminous title poem, Crawford reaches simultaneously back to her family’s immigrant experience and immigrant experiences that define America today.

Available at Amazon • https://virginiacrawford.com/

95

Mindset Medicine:

I

I T

F A

R

S H E D

Virginia Crawford

Julie is adopted. She is also a twin. Because their adoption was closed, she and her sister lack both a health history and their adoption papers―which becomes an issue for Julie when, at forty-eight years old, she finds herself facing several serious health issues.

O

2022

U I

I T

E T

G

R

I S

N

O

D

AWARD

$299 PAPERBACK $600

P O E T R Y - S O C I A L / P O L I T I C A L

A Search for Identity, Family, and Belonging Julie Ryan McGue

I

R

Vibha Maurya

Sullivan is more faithful to Merlin’s complex mythology than to the genre’s tropes. Although Nimue and Merlin’s romance is intense, Nina comes to realize she’s the power of the universe and to usher in the Golden Age by reconnecting with the natural world.

ISBN: 978-1947925182 •

$1600

Feelings Awakened

To discover what is true about ourselves, we often have that which tests us to the core. Nimue is the only one who can find Merlin and the world depends on it!

0 2

Ash

P O E T R Y - R E F L E C T I O N S

Ayn Cates Sullivan

2

P O E T R Y

ISBN: 978-1941783757 •

Nimue: Freeing Merlin

AWARD

S H E D

Available at Grolier Poetry Bookstore, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org and other fine retailers: Distribution: Ingram • Amazon and Glass Lyre Press • www.gloriamindock.com

Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and wherever books, ebooks and audiobooks are sold. https://sallycole-misch.com

–Christina Doka for IndieReader

2022 F A V

U I

“…With mordant, Pinter-esque wit, Mindock explores just how far love, even human decency, can unravel—to the point of arson, to the point of war. Once again, with Ash, Mindock proves herself to be unafraid of the dark. She is truly a leading, contemporary master of the edgy.”

—Karen Friedland, author of Places that are Gone and Tales from the Teacup Palace

“Readers won’t be able to resist the pull of this remarkable novel,” states Readers’ Favorite’s five-star review. “The plot spanning past and present kept me enthralled and engaged throughout...The Best Part of Us is most highly recommended.”

Well-written, researched and successfully flips the Arthurian tradition on its head to reveal a powerful, feminist look at the hidden potential within us all.

G

NYC Big Book Award Winner 2021 and a Distinguished Favorite from the Independent Press Award 2022 (Poetry)

Winner of six national and international awards, The Best Part of Us immerses readers in a breathtaking natural world, a fresh perspective on loyalty, and an exquisite story about the essential roles that family, nature, and place hold in all of our lives.

P A R A N O R M A L

N

Gloria Maruška Mindock (Mindak)

If everything you cherished disappeared and you created a new, separate life, would you preserve who you’ve become or risk everything to discover if what was lost still remains?

ISBN: 978-1631527418 •

AWARD

EVERY FALL

N O V E L

The Best Part of Us

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

0 2

T

2

O

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

In this book, Neff reflects on history, politics, democratic theories, and principles in the form of fictional dialogs allowing the Founding Fathers to express their theories on what truly makes America great, and what will provide the American people today with real freedom and prosperity. The author believes that democratic principles, and ethical and selfless leadership in service of the people are the pillars to justice, equality, and prosperity for all.

Available at Amazon

$12

19

ISBN: 978-8887229188 •

38

$997

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Emotional Magnetism:

How to Communicate to Ignite Connection in Your Relationships

2022 N E R W I N

W I N

S C I E N C E

ISBN: 978-1977236869 •

“… a sparkling satire … a political comedy the reader can enjoy whatever their partisan affiliation..”

Cecelia Hopkins for Readers’ Favorite Available Everywhere Books Are Sold. https://www.robertcarlyletaylor-author.com/stores stores

$17

95

ISBN: 978-0-57837242-6 • S H O R T

R E L I G I O N - F I C T I O N

After a tumultuous marriage and struggling trying to keep it together, Hamilton, a university dean, sets out on a perilous emotional journey to change his life and seek the kind of love he’s always wanted. Hamilton meets Franny, a troubled dance teacher, and accepts her job offer of organizer in her studio. When Franny injures her foot, Hamilton must step out of his secure place to help.

N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

I T

E T

AWARD

R

I S I

O

D

W I N

F A

V

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble • https://www.judycar.com

R O M A N T I C

A Transformative Journey, A Dark Fantasy, A Psychological Drama, A Romantic Suspense and An Unconventional Horror Story—Don’t wait to read what happens next!

The unifying thread of second chances in these stories will keep the reader on tenterhooks until the last word.

The Attractiveness of Wisdom is a Christian, literary fiction, heart-warming, enthralling novel with endearing, and unforgettable characters.

ISBN: 978-1684338504 •

S T O R I E S

Elle Stockton

Will Hamilton wise up and learn how a man truly loves a woman, the value of friendship and the need for prayer?

2022 N E R

$1895

Not for Polite Society and Other Short Stories: Fictional tales on a ride of twists, turns, and the unexpected

Judy Kelly

2

R

The First Robot President combines science fiction with political satire, making fun of Democrats and Republicans in equal measure. The novel centers around Thomas Jenkins, a lobbyist, and his robot wife whose political ambitions land her on the Green Party’s 2520 Presidential ticket.

The Attractiveness of Wisdom

0 2

F I C T I O N

Robert Carlyle Taylor

An engaging book where the author speaks about the importance of furry companions in learning about a variety of subjects, especially love, companionship and relationships.

Uplifting, Must-Read for those who want to begin the dating process, choose good partners, and have a successful relationship!

Available at Amazon, Outskirts Press, Barnes and Noble, Walmart, Target www.lifecoachmaureen.com

2

$1499

The First Robot President

5 Stars/Best Seller on Amazon- “Maureen Entertains while enlightening on so many levels. This book has you take a look at yourself and what you deserve from a relationship, make you realize your own worth. Sharing her coping tools and love for her dogs, she builds trust with her readers. Highly Recommend!”

AWARD

Ark of the Apocalypse

ISBN: 978-1633372375 •

Maureen Scanlon

2022 N E R

F I C T I O N

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo and online booksellers• www.tobinmarks.com

R E L AT I O N S H I P S / P E R S O N A L G R O W T H

2

EVERY FALL

—Mishka Rao, BestThrillers.com

My Dog Is My Relationship Coach

0 2

S H E D

“Buzzworthy sci-fi epic that sprawls cinematically across timelines and solar systems. Highly recommended.”

“Gerber takes the frustration and guesswork out of relationship problems in this brilliant self-help guide to connecting with others.”~BlueInk Starred Review

ISBN: 978-1774581995

2

2022 F A V

U I

And so the Magellan II is born, the first starship capable of interstellar travel. Will humanity be able to survive?

---

Available on Amazon, Audible, most online booksellers www.sandygerber.com

AWARD

G

Humanity needs a new planet.

Engaging and fresh, this quick read includes highly relatable stories, exercises, and a quiz to boost your communication success.

2

N

The polar ice caps melted long ago and billions of people are dying.

In this unique and timely book, award-winning communications expert, Sandy Gerber shares how to quickly identify what you emotionally need to be happy (1 of 4 Emotional Magnets) and how to communicate that to be understood and accepted.

0 2

S C I E N C E

AWARD

Earth was almost dead.

Winner of eleven 2022 awards.

2

W I N

Tobin Marks

Sandy Gerber

AWARD

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

R E L AT I O N S H I P S / M A R R I AG E / P E R S O N A L G R O W T H

0 2

T

2

O

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

Available at Amazon • https://www.ellestockton.com

$21

95

ISBN: 978-0578298498 •

S U S P E N S E

S H O R T

$1399

S T O R I E S

On Traigh Lar Beach

Twilight Starlight World Alight: The Bay Area Blues: Book 5

Dianne Ebertt Beeaff

Kay C. Beerman

A smashing techie woman, a dandy FBI agent An Untouchable IRS Criminal Investigator, their MIA agent All mixed on a plate in the San Francisco Bay Area When seasoning the dish with a dark website, domestic terrorists, money laundering T

ISBN: 978-1734543339 •

www.IndependentPressAward.com

N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and online booksellers www.kaycbeerman.com/twilight-starlight-world-alight

AWARD

O

D I

What more could go wrong?

I T

E

Garnishing with lovers’ discord

F A

V

Thirteen curious items wash up on Traigh Lar Beach.

Thirteen tales of human connectedness.

Erica Winchat, a young writer overwhelmed by the stress of her first book contract, discovers thirteen curious items tangled in the flotsam on the Scottish beach of Tràigh Lar. Erica tells the intriguing story of the owner of each of these items, uncovering a series of dramatic events―from a Chicago widow’s inspiring visit to Quebec City to a shrimper’s daughter facing Tropical Storm Ruby in North Carolina.

Available at Amazon and Ingram • www.debeeaff.wordpress.com

$11

50

ISBN: 978-1631527715 •

39

$1649

www.nycbigbookaward.com

W I N

B O O K S / N O V E L L A

It’s for the Best Janet K. Shawgo

AWARD N

R

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

0 2

2022 F A V

O

2

T

S M A L L

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

D

Minute

LAST

G

U I

S H E D

EVERY FALL

S O C I O L O G Y

A Socio-Criminological Analysis of the HIV Epidemic Bruno Meini

Some secrets need to stay buried, especially, in the town of Glenmore.

A comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted sociocriminological dimensions of the HIV epidemic. An independent epistemology of HIV to explicate the social forces that impact and determine the course and experience of the epidemic, while also seeking to reframe the popular discourse on HIV to reflect sociological conceptualisations.

9.99 book/ ebook 3.99 or free on Kindle Unlimited

E

The unprecedented challenge posed by the epidemic for the international community calls for global cooperation aimed at evaluating the diverse aspects of the issues.

T

G

2022

U I

S H E D

I T R

I S

N

AWARD

O

D

AWARD I F A

V

2

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Winner in the Independent Press Award - Sociology https://vernonpress.com/author/53522 • Available on Amazon.

Available at Amazon • www.jkshawgo.com

ISBN: 978-1733404532 • S M A L L

$999

ISBN: 978-1648890543 •

B O O K S / N O V E L L A

S P I R I T U A L I T Y / M E M O I R / L E S B I A N

The Bishop’s Palace

Field Notes from a Queer Mystic Jan Phillips

Would you dare to enter The Bishop’s Palace?

Still on Fire is a memoir of religious wounding and spiritual healing, of judgment and forgiveness, and of social activism in a world that is in our hands. Jan Phillips was a devoted Catholic who wanted nothing more than to be a nun but was dismissed from the convent because she was lesbian. Distinguished Favorite in the Independent Press Awards—LGBTQ.

Will you find tresure, or be lost forever to the evil inside?

T

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

G

O

D

N

I T

E

Purchase price 11.99 physical / 3.99 Ebook

AWARD F A

V

Available at Ingram and Amazon • go.unity.org/giftguide

Available at Amazon • www.jkshawgo.com

ISBN: 978-1733404532 • S O C I A L / P O L I T I C A L

My Unexpected Life:

$1199

ISBN: 978-0871594167 •

C H A N G E

Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex

0 2

2022 N E R

2

Carole P. Roman

Templeton Academy- the superhero high school is finally open!

At age 28, Martina Clark was told she had HIV and five years to live. With a sense of nothing to lose, she dove into activism and, unexpectedly, fell into an international career starting as the first openly HIV-positive person to work for UNAIDS. A mix of personal memoir, travel, humor and an upclose look at the squishy underbelly of the United Nations, My Unexpected Life follows her personal journey-emotional and physical-interwoven with her professional path.

AWARD W I N

The prestigious academy is recruiting the best of the best to enroll in its student body. The school is as mysterious as it is exclusive.

Grady Whill thinks there is nothing special about him to make the grade. However, his best friend, Aarush Patel has been selected and thinks Grady has the right stuff. Even school bully Elwood Bledsoe is attending.

If Grady is fortunate enough to be picked, his guardian has forbidden him to attend.

Will a family secret prevent Grady from becoming the superhero he was destined to be?

Available on Amazon.

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble • https://martina-clark.com/

ISBN: 978-1950668113 • S O C I A L / P O L I T I C A L

$1695 T E E N

An International Memoir of Two Pandemics, HIV and COVID-19 Martina Clark

2

S T U D I E S

Still on Fire:

Janet K. Shawgo

I

$4000

$1995

ISBN: 978-1950080434 •

C H A N G E

$1699

T H R I L L E R

Reform the Kakistocracy:

The Ridders Lisa Towles

Rule by the Least Able or Least Principled Citizens

William Kovacs

A young PI becomes entangled in a global conspiracy orchestrated by a secret society of political operatives. Chasing down leads brings him back to his own family, and the deeper he digs, the closer he gets to truths he can’t bear to face about the elusive Bilderberg Group, his missing father, and the fate of everyone he loves.

Our federal government is too big to govern. Talking heads will not make it work. Reform the Kakistocracy offers ideas for decentralizing it, reducing debt, and fostering greater freedom. Recipient of the 2021 Independent Press Award, Social/Political Change.

A must-read for fans of suspense thrillers...and a cracking ending to an uncommonly absorbing novel.”

- Book Viral Reviews

Distributed by Ingram • Available on Amazon • http://indiesunited.net/the-ridders

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble • www.reformthekakistocracy.com

ISBN: 978-1640965140 •

www.IndependentPressAward.com

$1495

ISBN: 978-1644564387 •

40

$1699

www.nycbigbookaward.com

W O M E N ’ S

N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

I T R

AWARD

O

I

T

ISBN: 978-1734596908 •

I S

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online booksellers. http://acalltoreform.com/

D

W I N

F A

2

W I N

R

EVERY FALL

Available on Amazon, most online booksellers. • www.balanceofseven.com

$15

95

ISBN: 978-1947012110 •

F I C T I O N

$1800

Y O U N G A D U LT

Prairie Sonata Sandy Shefrin Rabin

A coming-of-age story woven with addiction, love, and celebrity, The Silence in the Sound is a women’s upmarket novel about young nurse Georgette who, to escape her past, heads where the memories won’t follow—Martha’s Vineyard island. While working there for ailing celebrity author, Mr. S. helps heal old wounds; new ones emerge in a toxic love affair.

2022 N E R

0 2

S H E D

“From love to nature to language in an author’s world, [Theodore Niretac Tinker] tackles it all.”

—Amy Megill, www.EditorAmy.com

Dianne C. Braley 2

2022 F A V

U I

V

The Silence in the Sound AWARD

G

With his friendly and down-to-earth approach, Theodore Niretac Tinker—multi-award-winning author and seasoned developmental editor—will guide you through your writing journey to connect the dots, tie up loose ends, and gain new insights into your world. Easy to follow, versatile, reusable, and filled with playful signposts, Fiction Tinker’s Guide to Whimsical Worlds can help you find the knowledge you seek to build an engaging and immersive world your readers will never want to leave.

E

Politics have become a polarizing topic, especially now, while tensions run high and the future feels so dangerously uncertain.

No matter which political party or belief system you affiliate with, A Call to Reform makes clear that democracy works best when we pull ideas from both sides of the political spectrum.

2022 N E R

2

N

Theodore Niretac Tinker

About the need to modernize the federal government in an effort to save America’s unique political, social, and economic culture. It’s about what makes us uniquely American, with an emphasis on a brief history of human rights and civil liberties. It is a call for help now so that future generations will be able to enjoy the human rights and civil liberties all Americans cherish.

0 2

AWARD

Fiction Tinker’s Guide to Whimsical Worlds

Stephen P. Fish

2

W I N

W R I T I N G

A Call to Reform

AWARD

I

2022 N E R

2

I T

E

H I S T O R Y

0 2

O

2

T

U . S .

AWARD

I S

EVERY SPRING

Minute

D

LAST

Richly textured and lyrically written, Prairie Sonata is the story of Mira Adler and what she learns about life and love from her violin teacher, a recent immigrant from Prague who is mysterious and intriguing and who Mira believes harbours a painful secret.

A coming-of-age story about music, love, friendship, community, and religion, Prairie Sonata is a riveting tale that will resonate with and captivate the reader.

T

N

G

2022

U I

S H E D

R

I S

AWARD

Named by Kirkus Reviews as one of the Best Books of 2021.

Compelling...poignant and eloquent.

O

D I

I T

E

Inspired by actual events.

F A

V

Available on Amazon, most online booksellers.

Available at Amazon • https://diannecbraley.com/

ISBN: 978-0645178012 •

$1995

E-BOOK $599 • ISBN: 978-1525576379 •

$1899

WOMEN’S FICTION

When Lions Roar

Karen Leigh Gruber Winner of 16 Literary Awards

Two women from different lands, each struggling to survive; a child’s mysterious disappearance will alter both their lives forever…

G

2022

U I

S H E D

I T

E T

N

R

I S

AWARD

O

D I

F A

V

Maggie has succumbed to the predictability of being a mother and wife. Despite her boredom, when her husband David is called on assignment to South Africa, Maggie resents having to rearrange her life.

While on safari, Maggie awakens one morning to their daughter Hannah gone missing. Then, Maggie is confronted with the harsh truth of her emotionally abusive marriage and what she has allowed her life to become.

Will Maggie find the strength to abandon the fragile ties of her marriage and confront her self-destruction in time to save the life of her daughter?

Available on Amazon • www.amazon.com/dp/1734976004/

Kindle $4.99 (free with Kindle Unlimited) • Audiobook $17.46 (free with Audible)

Paperback $14.95 • ISBN: 978-1734976007

W O M E N ’ S

F I C T I O N

The Golden Hearts Club: A Novel

Cinda K. Swalley

A road trip, elusive dreams, and accidental encounters lead two sisters on an inspiring journey when their decision to help a stranger will change many lives. A story of sisterhood, new friendships, and finding love in an unlikely place. An awardwinning debut.

2022 NYC Big Book Award, 2022 Readers Favorite Award, 2022 Firebird Book Award, 2022 Literary Titan Book Award, 2022 Finalist HOLT RWA Award, Honorable Mention 2022 San Francisco Book Festival, 2022 Shortlisted Chanticleer Somerset Book Award.

AWARD 2

0 2

2022 N E R

2

W I N

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble • www.cindaswalley.com

ISBN: 978-1736067710 •

www.IndependentPressAward.com

$1499 41

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2021 NYC Big Book Award:

2022 Independent Press Award:

with

with

Ayn Cates Sullivan

Nati del Paso During Women's History Month 2022, Nati del Paso discusses her debut Women of Fire and Snow: Short Stories with Gabby Olczak, President of the Independent Press Award - Uncut Live Interview and can be viewed at

The Legends of the Grail series by Ayn Cates Sullivan, is a collection of Celtic myths and legends told traditionally with a twist. Each heroine tells her unique story, freeing herself of centuries of misunderstanding.

Nimue: Freeing Merlin is the first.

www.independentpressaward.com/womenoffireandsnow "Women of Fire and Snow" is a riveting collection of contemporary stories of women straddling the Mexican-American border while finding their place and voice. Cultural identity, gender violence, forced migration, sacrifice, love, and resiliency frame suspenseful tales where realism is tempered by the supernatural and mystical.

In this standalone novel, Nina realizes that she was the sorceress Nimue in a previous life and the one responsible for sealing Merlin in an enchanted Hawthorn tree. Only she can release him from his silvery prison - if she can find him! Nina discovers more about her innate gifts and superpowers in this heroine's quest than she could have ever thought possible.

• An undocumented teenager is ripped from her home to fight • • • •

Ayn Cates Sullivan, MA, MFA, Ph.D. is an award-winning, Amazon best-selling author and popular podcast host of Wisdom of the Ages: https://superpowerexperts.com/ woa-wisdom-of-the-ages. She holds a master’s degree in spiritual psychology from USM, and a master's and doctorate in literature from Columbia University and King’s College London. She currently lives with her husband, two children, and a variety of wonderful pets in Charlottesville, VA. Her educational experiences coupled by life lead her into the study and practice of what makes one whole.

From the deserts and volcanoes of Mexico to the forests of the Pacific Northwest, these fast-paced stories blend social commentary with classic and psychological horror.

Nati del Paso is a writer, counselor, and student of Indigenous Psychology and Shamanism. She was raised in Mexico by a Mexican mother and an American father. Del Paso moved to Reno, Nevada in 2001 where she studied creative writing and managed the community college’s continuing education writing program and their annual writer’s conference. She was a counselor in the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity at the University of Washington in Seattle and now is faculty at Portland Community College. Del Paso weaves psychology and magic realism into suspenseful tales surrounding the immigrant experience, women, environmental, race, and cultural identity issues. ​

Ayn writes stories for all ages designed to uplift, heal, and inspire. She is well known for her Legends of the Grail series including Legends of the Grail: Stories of Celtic Goddesses, her Amazon best-seller Heroines of Avalon: Other Tales, and Nimue: Freeing Merlin. The series has won multiple literary awards.

Watch the video interview and book trailer at www.independentpressaward.com/nimue and learn more about Ayn Cates Sullivan at ayncatessullivan.com

www.IndependentPressAward.com

a monster in a haunted town.

A college student confronts evil when ICE detains her father.

While rescuing her nephew at the border, a young woman wrestles with her privilege and the power of Santa Muerte.

A curandera battles a demon while her granddaughter confronts her violent husband.

A young Chicana from Seattle travels to Mexico, plunging into a secret society to combat rampant femicide.

42

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 Independent Press Award:

2022 Independent Press Award:

with

with

Lis Bensley

Julie Scolnik “Not every true story is like a good novel, but this one is. Not every memoir of first love has a satisfying ending, but this one does. The confluence of first love with becoming an artist makes this memoir special.”

— John Irving, best-selling author of 17 novels

Bensley discusses The Glimpse.

A moving, unsentimental tale of the charged New York art world of the 1950s and the dynamic between a mother and daughter as they grapple with their relationship that becomes pivotal to their artwork.

Paris Blue: The Story PARIS, 1976: Twenty-year-old American student Julie Scolnik had just arrived in the City of Light to study the flute, when, from across a sea of faces in the chorus of the Orchestre de Paris, she is drawn to Luc, a striking (married) French lawyer in the bass section. He has a dire need to learn English, so they begin reading fairytales and poetry in parks and cafés, becoming enmeshed in a private universe of esthetics and charm, and deepening a covert bond that comes to a shocking end eighteen months later.

The Glimpse begins with Liza Baker, a rising star in the burgeoning Abstract Expressionist era. Baker finds herself sidelined when she gets pregnant and decides to have the child. Against conventional wisdom, she's convinced she can have a successful career and be a good mother to her daughter, Rouge.

This love-at-first-sight, moving tale of an ebullient young American and a reserved Frenchman will transport readers to the cafés, streets, and concert halls of Paris in the late 1970’s. Spanning three decades it evolves from deep romance to sudden heartbreak, and finally into a lifelong quest for answers to release immutable grief.

Set against a magical backdrop of Paris and classical music, Paris Blue is a true fairy-tale memoir (with a dark underbelly), about the tenacious grip of first love.

Baker accepts a job teaching at a college and is faced with the harsh realities of a male-dominated art world. Unable to build a successful career, she watches as her former lover, whose work resembles hers, skyrockets to fame. Liza develops a drinking problem and often brings home artist lovers she's met in the city. After Rouge meets Ben Fuller, one of Liza's discarded lovers who subsequently fosters Rouge talent in photography, the complexity of the mother-daughter relationship takes on the added charge of a competition between the two, one that Liza tries to sabotage.

See the interview at www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/paris-blue Julie Scolnik is a concert flutist and the founding artistic director of Mistral Music, a chamber music series which since 1997 has been known for its virtuosic artists, imaginative programming, and the personal rapport that Scolnik establishes with her audiences. In earlier years, Ms. Scolnik performed as principal flute with many of Boston's leading orchestras including Emmanuel Music, The Boston Ballet, and the Boston Lyric Opera. Ms. Scolnik is a frequent featured guest on Boston's WCRB radio, having made over three dozen radio appearances. Since her treatment and recovery from breast cancer in 2005, Scolnik has found ways to perform in and organize benefit concerts which raise funds for support for underserved women with breast cancer. Most recently, two full orchestral concerts with the world-renowned Sir Simon Rattle in Jordan Hall, Boston and at the Hotel de Ville de Paris, for the League Contre le Cancer.

See the interview and book trailer at www.independentpressaward.com/theglimpse The author Lis Bensley lives in Santa Cruz, CA. She has worked as a journalist at The New York Times and The International Herald Tribune, when she lived in Paris and studied cooking at the Cordon Bleu. Subsequently she wrote The Women’s Health Cookbook. To entertain her children, she wrote The Adventures of Milo & Flea about the antics of their cat and dog.

www.IndependentPressAward.com

43

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Book advertising executive Christian, picks Vauhini Vara’s impressive debut novel, a satirical and memorable dystopian thriller entitled “The Immortal King Rao” (WW Norton).

continued from page 29

Saying that she loved the cultural and historical sweep of this biography, book critic Willy highly recommends Salon film critic Dana Stevens’s “Camera Man: Buster Keaton, the

HOLIDAY

Dawn of Cinema, and the Invention of the 20th Centur y”

(Simon & Schuster) as a treat for movie aficionados.

BOOK PICKS

Neal, a book publisher, hopes gift givers consider J. Joseph Pastrana’s handsomely-crafted book, “Homespun: True Tales of Tweed” (Thane & Prose) for the natty history hound or even the fashionably curious.

I, myself, am hoping to get at least one book under the tree–I am especially wishing for “Playing Under the Piano”

by Hugh Bonneville (Other Press). To find out what the portrayer of Lord Grantham was up to before, during and after his Downton Abbey days will be a non-caloric holiday guilty pleasure, indeed.

David Nudo Former Director of The New York Times Book Review

www.IndependentPressAward.com

44

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 Independent Press Award: with

James A. Ross

J

ames A. Ross discusses his books and writing career with Gabby Olczak, President of the Independent Press Award.

Em’s Awful Good Fortune

The Sound of Wings

by Marcie Maxfield

by Suzanne Simonetti

Life in the Chastity Zone

The Trials of Adeline Turner

by Holly Brandon

by Angela Terry

More Than

The Trials of Adeline Turner

by Diane Barnes

by Angela Terry

Novel Women 2

Transferring Credits, Book Three, The With Honors Series

by Between Friends Book Club

Nowhere Near Goodbye

by Barbara Conrey

Discover historical fiction Hunting Teddy Roosevelt and Ross’ debut mystery novel Coldwater Revenge and the Coldwater series.

Coldwater Revenge starts in a small upstate New York town with a centuries-long tradition of 'live and let live' smuggling across the lake it shares with French Quebec.

by Addison Winters

Rewrite the Stars

True Love Knot: Entangled, a caregiver’s story

by Christina Consolino

by DonnaLee Overly

The Coach’s Wife

Truth and Other Lies

by Barbara Casey

by Maggie Smith

The Difference

When Lions Roar

by C. D’Angelo

by Karen Leigh Gruber

The Silence in the Sound

by Dianne C. Braley

Bad things happen when a bioresearch company accepts anonymous shipments of vials, powders and Petri-dishes in exchange for quick cash. Trouble begins when a poxed corpse floats to the top of a nearby lake and an autopsy reveals it to be riddled with deadly toxin.

When the dead body appears, two brother detectives investigate. In an attempt to solve the murder, history and geography dictate to examine friends, lovers and even family.

The brothers face difficult moral choices, especially when one begins to suspect the other... and the catalyst is an ex-girlfriend they have in common.

Jim is a novelist and gifted storyteller, He has also been a Peace Corp Volunteer in the Congo, a CBS News Producer, a Congressional Staffer and a Wall Street lawyer.

See the interview, book trailers, purchase the books, and more at www.independentpressaward.com/coldwaterrevenge Reviews can be found on www.jamesrossauthor.com/coldwater-revenge

www.IndependentPressAward.com

45

www.nycbigbookaward.com

46

47

2021 NYC Big Book Award:

2022 NYC Big Book Award:

with

Dr. Barbara Koltuska-Haskin

with

Tobin Marks

Neuropsychologist Koltuska-Haskin's illuminating debut, How My Brain Works, A Guide to Understanding It Better and Keeping It Healthy, can be characterized as two self-help guides in one, delineating the importance of a neuropsychological evaluation and a practical model for bettering brain health.

Science fiction fantasy author Tobin Marks grew up in a household which was literally filled with rocket scientists. With his vast imagination Marks has created an alien watery world called Aqueous.

Orbiting a Red Dwarf 1187 light years from Earth, Aqueous is teeming with dangerous reptilian life… and one long forgotten human colony.

The first half of the book touches on the history of clinical neuropsychology, effective evaluation methods, and the importance of reliable medical examinations, particularly for attention deficit disorders and traumatic brain injuries.

Koltuska-Haskin clearly explains the importance and stages of a neuropsychological evaluation for clients. She details technical procedures unobtrusively and she delves into trickier aspects of medical care, such as insurance and the privacy of medical records under HIPAA. The second half of the book offers a variety of suggestions for boosting one's own brain health by attending to sleep, exercise, meditation, healthy eating,and other practices.

In unembellished prose, Koltuska-Haskin shines a light on the common hurdles accompanying a neuropsychology diagnosis.

She avoids recondite jargon and patiently breaks down terms and procedures for the uninitiated. Readers will appreciate the enlightening case studies from Koltuska-Haskin's experience as a neuropsychologist and the emphasis on how patients, their caregivers, and their medical teams can benefit from an allencompassing neurological evaluation. Her take on nutrition is ably bolstered by easy-to-prepare recipes, and she offers tips on gardening, mindfulness, and other ways to maintain a sound supply of "emotional vitamins." For readers who have trouble meditating, she suggests a helpful roadmap to achieving a calmer state of mind and alleviating emotional and physical pains.

The Trilogy: The Hope Prophecy. Book One: Endeavors Run; Book Two: Katana Red, and Book Three: Drakon Rus. The Prequel: Ark of the Apocalypse was released to rave reviews, and he is now working on the second trilogy: The Hope Progression.

The Prequel: Ark of the Apocalypse Earth is on the verge of becoming a dead planet. The polar ice caps melted long ago, and it's been decades since the last raindrop fell. Ocean levels rise a dozen meters, and forest fires rage on a global scale. Eleven billion people dying of thirst wage water wars against each other as extinction looms.

Humanity needs a new planet. As Earth deteriorates, the nation states desperately work together to build a mechanism for recolonization. And so the Magellan II is born, the first starship capable of interstellar travel.

Dr. Koltuska-Haskin is a clinical neuropsychologist in private practice with over 30 years experience. Along with a doctorate in psychology/neuropsychology, she has a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology and Bachelor of Education. Dr. KoltuskaHaskin was born and raised in Warsaw, Poland. In 1989, she was awarded the American Association of University Women International Fellowship where she spent a year at UCLA’s postdoctoral training program in neuropsychology. She later received her US citizenship as an “alien of exceptional abilities” on the basis of her education, research in neuropsychology, and clinical achievements.

The future of the human race is tasked to ten thousand colonists-now homeless but for the vastness of space and the decks of Magellan II. A distant planet offers hope of survival, but it's a strange, watery world inhabited by giant reptiles.

Humanity is starting over, but survival isn't guaranteed.

Tobin Marks is a world traveler, poet, sci-fi fantasy writer and engineer. He hails from north west Baja.

The full interview can be found here:

Marks says the word ‘science’ is in science fiction for a reason. Listen to the interview and find out why!

www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalksaudioonly/how-my-brain-works-aguide-to-understanding-it-better-and-keeping-it-healthy

www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/ark-of-the-apocalypse

www.IndependentPressAward.com

and visit www.drkoltuska.com 48

www.nycbigbookaward.com

49

2022 Independent Press Award:

with

Dr. Ana Maria Mihalcea, MD, PHD Dr. Ana Maria Mihalcea, MD, PHD discusses her debut LIGHT MEDICINE A New Paradigm - The Science of Light, Spirit and Longevity with Gabby Olczak, President of the Independent Press Award. This is an uncut live version of their conversation.

Do you know that your spirit and physical body are light?

Is it possible to rejuvenate YOU? Do you think YOU can reverse diseases that are causing your aging?

In a Light Medicine understanding, we can say: “Yes! You can.”

Light Medicine is the science of connecting light and spirit with health and longevity in the human body. This evolutionary model connects the creative force of the divine spiritual being - incarnated in a physical body - to the Observer in quantum physics and explains how our thoughts affect physical reality.

Based upon teachings by Ramtha the Enlightened One, Dr. Mihalcea presents a new way of assessing molecules of healing according to their light value. She explains the remarkable, scientific documentation of the great American Spiritual leader, JZ Knight, as an extraordinary example of how one’s Divine Spirit can manipulate the matter of the physical body.

From this out-of-the-box, scientific perspective, Dr. Mihalcea explores and explains natural and futuristic solutions for the reversal of all diseases of aging. Blu Room® technology is also introduced as an advanced Light Medicine adjunct toward medical treatment. Documented journeys of individuals, who have reversed chronic ailments and achieved a state of wellness through Light Medicine combination therapies, offer hope to all. This fantastic exploration of human possibilities leaves the reader inspired to dream a novel vision of health and longevity by reaching for new frontiers of science and mind.

As a doctor of Internal Medicine and Integrative Medicine, Dr. Ana Mihalcea founded AM Medical in 2019. It is an integrated health clinic “Dedicated to the principals of Light Medicine: the reversal of all diseases and aging, the achievement of health and longevity, and bringing light back into our bodies and world”.

Through extensive research, Dr. Mihalcea ties together, in a unique way, multiple scientific disciplines — biophysics, genetics, torsion and quantum physics, biochemistry, and neurology — with the power of the mind. How we think manifests a state of health or disease. This tapestry of context provides a fundamental basis for how modern miracles of healing can happen and are intentionally created.

www.independentpressaward.com/light-medicine

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT

PERSONAL GROWTH / SELF-HELP

Be Your Own Medical Intuitive:

Healing Your Body and Soul

by Tina Zion

Embodied: How to Connect to Your Body, Ignite Your Intuition, and Harness Universal Energy for Healing

by Vicky Roubekas

Go From Hustle to Flow: Yoga + Mindset Practice to Release Overwhelm, Cultivate Peace + Redefine Success

by Amanda W. Jenkins

Inner Alchemy: The Path of Mastery

by Zulma Reyo www.IndependentPressAward.com

Watch the interview and see the book trailer at

Soul Afterlife: Beyond the Near-Death Experience

AfterLIFE, Waking Up from My American Dream

by Bud Megargee

by Carlo Pietro Sanfilippo

Journey Into Awareness: Reclaiming Your Life

Spirit Speaks Within You The Awakening Guide to Tap Intuition, Gain Validation And Increase Healing

Emotional Magnetism: How to Communicate to Ignite Connection in Your Relationships

Mind Hacking for Rebels: A practical guide to power and freedom

by Karin M. Keyes, LCSW

by Karin Tydén

by Sandy Gerber

by Kelle Sutliff

Free Time: Lose the Busywork, Love Your Business

The Eye of the Heart: A New Translation with Selected Letters

Mindset Medicine: A Journaling Power Self-Love Book

by Mari L. McCarthy

by Jenny Blake

Generations Deep: Unmasking Inherited Dysfunction and Trauma to Rewrite Our Stories Through Faith and Therapy

by Frithjof Schuon

by Gina Birkemeier

The Seven Gifts

by David B Whitacre

Next Stage: In Your Retirement, Create the Life You Want

by Tom Wilson

Reflections on Ineffable Love: from loss through grief to joy

by Cheryl Lafferty Eckl 50

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 Independent Press Award:

Relentless: Homeless Teen to Achieving the Entrepreneur Dream

with

Gina Birkemeier LPC

The Unfakeable Code®

by Tony Jeton Selimi

by Natasha Miller

The Noble Edge: Reclaiming an Ethical World One Choice at a Time

Gina Birkemeier LPC speaks about her book Generations Deep: Unmasking Inherited Dysfunction and Trauma to Rewrite Our Stories Through Faith and Therapy with Gabby Olczak, President of the Independent Press Award.

by Christopher Gilbert, Ph.D.

Therapy Without A Therapist: A DIY Guide to Good Mental Health & Growth (Fully Human Psychotherapy Tools for Life Series)

by Avigail Abarbanel The Stress Book: Forty-Plus Ways to Manage Stress & Enjoy Your Life

In Generations Deep, author Gina Birkemeier uses her own personal story to illustrate how unaddressed dysfunction and trauma can create emotional wounds and toxic beliefs that are passed down from one generation to the next. Gina shares the story of inherited trauma and dysfunction that echoed through four generations of her family, demonstrating this profound truth: what isn’t repaired gets repeated. Often in ways we never could have imagined.

by D. Terrence Foster, M.D.

LAST

Generations Deep takes an unparalleled approach to personal and familial transformation, inviting you to challenge what you think about family, trauma, faith and therapy. Gina shares her story in a way that makes you feel like you are “in the room” together. Once you’re in the room, she weaves the sciences of psychology and transgenerational epigenetics with faith in God, questionnaires created by trauma-informed therapists, and one-of-a-kind journaling prompts to help you in your journey toward ending patterns of dysfunction. If you are interested in the power of familial legacy and what it means to be a cycle breaker, this is the book for you. It will leave you feeling hopeful and empowered to write a legacy of freedom for the generations to come.

Minute

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Live and uncut interview, see more at www.independentpressaward.com/generationsdeep or visit www.generationsdeep.com

Birkemeier is an author and licensed professional counselor with a Master’s Degree in psychology and theology from Covenant Theological Seminary and advanced training in trauma and techniques to help people heal. Birkemeier speaks and teaches on topics related to shame, generational trauma and behavioral epigenetics She works as a therapist at CrossRoads Counseling in St. Louis, MO. www.IndependentPressAward.com

51

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 Independent Press Award:

2022 NYC Big Book Award:

with

with

Carlo Pietro Sanfilippo

Cheryl Lafferty Eckl

Cheryl Lafferty Eckl author of Reflections on Ineffable Love, is an award-winning author of 15 books. A mystical writer and storyteller, she brings her unique talent to genres as diverse as memoir, personal growth, death & dying, inspirational poetry and spiritual romance novels.

Carlo discusses AfterLIFE: Waking Up from My American Dream with Gabby Olczak.

CHANGE is possible. Feel something is missing? Want to take your life in a different direction? Need a little inspiration to help you along? CHANGE is possible.

Love Is Stronger Than Death

No matter what kind of life you are trying to create, AfterLIFE: Waking Up from My American Dream tells a real-life story about stepping into your true self. It empowers you to live with purpose and to know that change is possible.

With introspection and honesty, AfterLIFE tells a story of transformation in a way that gives you a sense that this is your journey.

While I navigated the rough waters of grief after the passing of my husband and twin flame, Stephen, many experiences proved to me that love is not only stronger than death, love transcends death. In the midst of the worst event of my life, I made an amazing discovery. Although Stephen was no longer alive on earth, our souls could communicate through the veil separating this world and the next. More than thirteen years after my beloved lifted off for other realms, our sacred love tryst grows stronger every day.

Through inspirational stories, meditations and poetry, I am grateful to offer you my reflections on this unique path we are blessed to walk. For I have come to know that...loss is for our learning, grief is for our transformation, and joy is eager to bring us Home to our soul, our twin flame and our True Self.

---Cheryl Lafferty Eckl

Learn more at www.independentpressaward.com/afterlife

or visit the author’s website: carloblog.com Carlo Sanfilippo spent many years living what he thought was the American Dream. A prescribed path of college, marriage, kids, a house, and all of the things he was supposed to have and do. Something was missing: a life where he felt authentic, fulfilled, and in control. It took a series of devastating losses for Carlo to realize that he was living a half-life. In the aftermath of those events, he discovered a path that would set him on a journey of jumping off the hamster wheel, and creating a life filled with discovery, mental release, spiritual delight, and new mastery.

See the interview at www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/reflections-on-ineffable-love%3Afrom-loss-through-grief-to-joy

and learn more about Cheryl’s books a www.cheryleckl.com/ BIOGRAPHY Cheryl Lafferty Eckl is a life coach and a facilitator of retreats and workshops on grief and end-of-life issues. She holds a Master’s certificate in Transpersonal Psychology and lives in the Big Sky Country of Montana.

A financial planner for 26 years, Carlo now builds furniture, does improv, hosts a blog and podcast, studies Italian, travels, and writes. www.IndependentPressAward.com

52

www.nycbigbookaward.com

53

POETRY ASH

Gathering Broken Light

by Gloria Mindock

by Heather Lang-Cassera

Birnam Wood

Little Victory

by José Manuel Cardona, translated by Hélène Cardona

by Elizabeth Kuelbs

Book of Feast

by DJ Hill

by Zachary Valtschanoff

Everything

by Andrea Cohen

Feelings Awakened

Scale Model of a Country at Dawn

The Fire Thief: A Life in Poems

by John Sibley Williams

by Judith Koll Healey

Spells & Other Ways of Flying The Girl Who Talked

by Barbra Nightingale to Paintings

Of Ash & Fire

Stone Roses

by Linda Neal Reising

Prime Meridian: Poems

The Curator’s Notes

by Connie Post

Questions for Water

by Robin Rosen Chang

by Virginia Crawford

The Drowning House

by Vibha Maurya

by Shannon K. Winston

When You Hear Me (You Hear Us): Voices on Youth Incarceration

by Free Minds Book Club & Writing Workshop

by John Sibley Williams

Now accepting submissions Sign up today www.IndependentPressAward.com 2023 #GabbyBookAwards

www.IndependentPressAward.com

54

www.nycbigbookaward.com

THRILLER/SUSPENSE

Access Point

by E.J. Yerzak

Legends of the Circle

by Stephen J. Galgon

After the Fact

by Jeff Cooper

Ninety-Five

by Lisa Towles

Blood Before Dawn, Book 2 of the Dung Beetles of Liberia Series

by Daniel V. Meier, Jr.

Bolt

by Bryan Cassiday

Complicit

by Amy Rivers

Darkness and Grace

by Kathryn Schleich

Deadly Serious

by AJ Thibault

Debt Bomb

by Michael E Ginsberg

Eagle Ascending

OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD

by Alex S. Avitabile

Suffer Little Children

by Freda Hansburg

The Enigma Always

by Breakfield and Burkey

The Enigma Source

by Breakfield and Burkey

The Missing Peace

by Tom Joyce

The Ridders

by Lisa Towles

The Strait

by Dom Stasi

by Dan Whitfield

www.IndependentPressAward.com

55

www.nycbigbookaward.com

ADDICTION & RECOVERY Beating Drug Addiction in Tehran: a Women’s Clinic

by Dr. Kate Dolan

No One Cheers for Goliath: My Leadership Story

by Timothy J. Brown

Co-Crazy: One Psychologist’s Recovery from Codependency and Addiction: A Memoir and Roadmap to Freedom

by Sarah Michaud

Picturing Freedom: African Americans & Their Cars, A Photographic History

by Stanley B. Burns, MD & Elizabeth A. Burns

The Weight of Air: A Story of the Lies about Addiction and the Truth about Recovery

by David Poses

Working While Black: A Woman’s Guide to Stop Being the Best Kept Secret

by Dr Tana Session

ARCHITECTURE Bigger Than Tiny, Smaller Than Average

by Sheri Koones

AUDIOBOOKS - NONFICTION Blossom~The Wild Ambassador of Tewksbury

by Anna Carner

The Seven Gifts

by David B Whitacre

Cherishable, An Illuminating Guide for Caregivers and Patients

by Julie J. Wylie

CANCER

ANIMAL - PETS

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Mindful Beauty: Holistic Habits to Feel and Look Your Best

by Dr. Debbie Palmer with Valerie Latona

African American Nonfiction Bangin’ The Making Of A Y.G.

by Jonas Royster

Many Brave Fools: A Story of Addiction, Dysfunction, Codependency... And Horses

by Susan E. Conley

BEAUTY & HEALTH

What the Pet Food Industry Is Not Telling You: Developing Good Practices for a Healthier Dog

by Dr. Stephanie Krol

Pies to Die For: How to Live a Vibrant Life Despite a Fatal Diagnosis

Winded: A Memoir in Four Stages

by Carole Weaver, PhD

by Dawn Newton

We’ve Got Cancer

by Kushla Rolls

56

www.nycbigbookaward.com

COOKBOOKS

2021 NYC Big Book Award:

Amalia’s Mesoamerican Table-Ancient Culinary Traditions with Gourmet Infusions

by Amalia Moreno-Damgaard

with

Stephen P. Fish

The Positively Disney Cookbook: Personal Recipes from your Favorite Celebrities Across The Disney-Verse

by Kimberley Bouchard

Amen to the Garden

by Kimberly Cataldo Thompson

CROSS GENRE The Love Around Us: Some Haiku-Inspired Essays to Brighten Your Day

by Laura Lee Bond

Stephen P. Fish discusses "A Call To Reform... Sustaining America's Unique Culture" with Gabby Olczak.

Zen (and Rage) and the Art of a Never-Ending Home Renovation

by Marcia E. Formica

CULTURAL & SOCIAL ISSUES

What does it mean to be an American? How can we assert our civil liberties and human rights and be an agent of change?

A Socio-Criminological Analysis of the HIV Epidemic

by Bruno Meini

"A Call to Reform" couldn't be more timely.

Crazy Horse Weeps

by Joseph M. Marshall III

What makes us uniquely American?

No matter which political party or belief system you affiliate with, A Call to Reform makes clear that democracy works best when we pull ideas from both sides of the political spectrum.​

Living in Different Cultures

by Tamar Frankel

Reform the Kakistocracy: Rule by the Least Able or Least Principled Citizens

by William Kovacs Wake Up and Reclaim Your Humanity: Essays on the Tragedy of Israel Palestine

by Richard Forer

"Great read. A unique but common sense approach...Should be your next book club book!"

"Relevant...extremely informative...not overly political...further peoples' RESPECTFUL engagement. Highly recommend!"–– Amazon reviews

A Call To Reform is a story about the need to modernize the federal government in an effort to save America’s unique political, social, and economic culture. It is a story about what makes us uniquely American, with an emphasis on a brief history of human rights and civil liberties. It is a call for help now so that future generations will be able to enjoy the human rights and civil liberties all Americans cherish.

Steve, a Pennsylvania native, has a Master’s in Public Administration from Penn State. During his diverse professional life Steve has worked extensively in the insurance industry, he is a Certified Administrative Manager and most recently taught High School Economics and AP European History and Global Issues. A Call To Reform is Steve’s debut book.

See more at www.independentpressaward.com/acalltoreform or visit the author’s website: acalltoreform.com and start making a difference today. www.IndependentPressAward.com

57

www.nycbigbookaward.com

GRIEF We Hardly Knew Them, How Homeless Mentally Ill People Became Collateral Damage

by Pat Morgan

Celebrating Their Lives: Turning the Loss of a Loved One into a Legacy for Helping Others

by Norah Machia

What The Hell Are They Thinking?: The 100 debates that govern your life, written in a way that tells both sides of every story.

by Daniel Ravner (Editor)

Dipped In It, a Memoir

by Bethany Harvey

ENVIRONMENT Chemicals and Christians: Compassion and Caution

by Martha McLaughlin Federalsim, Preemption, and the Nationalization of American Wildlife Management: The Dynamic Balance Between State and Federal Authority

by Lowell E. Baier Kings of a Lonely Kingdom: Earth Day Essays, Poems, and Musings on Nature

by David C. Mahood

Voices of the Grieving Heart

by Mike Bernhardt

HEALTH

NATIONAL PARKS our LIVING TREASURE: A Time For Concern

by Dr. Gil Lusk

Beat stress, fatigue and burnout! Take immediate actions, re-evaluate your life and build a platform of resilience

by Bard Borresen

Racing Toward Zero: The Untold Story of Driving Green

by Kelly Senecal, Felix Leach

Fighting Invisible Tigers: Stress Management for Teens

by Earl Hipp

Built from Broken: A ScienceBased Guide to Healing Painful Joints, Preventing Injuries, and Rebuilding Your Body Paperback

by Scott H. Hogan

The Silent Killer Below: Hunting and Healing Geopathic Stress

by Robert D. Egby

HISTORY A Call To Reform

by Stephen P. Fish Death Never Dies: Mourning 2020 Through the Lives and Deaths of Public Figures

by Lee Fearnside

The Elders: Stories from Fort Berthold

by Hunter L. Andes The Official White House Christmas Ornament: Collected Stories of a Holiday Tradition

by Marcia M. Anderson,

Gone Before Glory: The Life and Tragic Death of William McKinley

by Stephen G. Yanoff

Kristen Hunter Mason The White House: An Historic Guide

by The White House

James Hoban: Designer and Builder of the White House

by Stewart D. McLaurin

Historical Association We The Presidents: How American Presidents Shaped the Last Century

by Ronald Gruner

Macron Unveiled: The Prototype for a New Generation of World Leaders

by Alain Lefebvre 58

Soldier of Rome: March to Oblivion

by James Mace

Designing Camelot: The Kennedy White House Restoration and Its Legacy

by James Archer Abbott, Elaine Rice Bachmann

Love’s Legacy: Viscount Chateaubriand and the Irish Girl

by Daniel Fallon

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Grief 50 Questions and Answers

by Richard Ballo

What Would The Founding Fathers Tell Us Today?

Political Dialogs Between 1789 and 2040

by Werner Neff

www.nycbigbookaward.com

59

JOURNALS Generations Deep Journal: Write Your Healing Story

by Gina Birkemeier LPC

2022 NYC Big Book Award:

Worthy of Wonder

by Kaitlin Osman

with

Tony Jeton Selimi

Worthy of Wonder

by Kaitlin Osman

The Unfakeable Code explores the fierce scientific, psychological, leadership, and business impact of wearing 'masks', feeling stuck, powerless, out of control, and being a people pleaser. Being disengaged and unproductive at home & work.

MEMOIRS Black, White, and Gray All Over: A Black Man’s Odyssey in Life and Law Enforcement

by Frederick Douglass Reynolds Coronavirus Reflections: Bitter or Better?

by Larada Horner-Miller Fatherless, Fearless, Female

by Mary Charity Kruger Stein Growing Up Catholic in the Twentieth Century: A 1940s 1950s Memoir

by S. P. Perone Hiding in Plain Sight: My Life and Adventures Protecting Celebrities

by Thomas LeBrun How To Eat A Shit Sandwich & Keep Smiling

by Annette Densham My Unexpected Life: An International Memoir of Two Pandemics: HIV and COVID-19

by Martina Clark

Never Say Invisible: A Memoir of Living and Being Seen with ALS

by Jeremy Schreiber Paris Blue

by Julie Scolnik

Meticulously researched and written

by Tony Jeton Selimi, The Unfakeable Code explores the fierce scientific, psychological, leadership and business impact of wearing 'masks”. Feeling stuck, powerless, out of control, and being a people pleaser. Being disengaged and unproductive at home and work - a growing problem in a fast-paced world full of expectations, information overload, fake news, and uncertainty. All which will leave behind a cosmic trail of mental health issues, acute social confusion, and a significant rise in unemployment.

Power Failure: A Nurse’s Story

by Terri Arthur, RN Shooting Out the Lights: A Memoir

by Kim Fairley The Parrot’s Perch

by Karen Keilt

Empowering readers to redefine themselves and overcome the adversity, anxiety, and stagnancy likely blighting their lives. Selimi truly breaks new ground in a volume that gives you the clarity, the hope, and the code to own your power and continue to evolve into the authentic, unfakeable leader you were born to be. The Unfakeable Code offers a fresh and robust five-step methodology for business, personal, or professional transformation. It assists in upgrading your psychology and harmonizing body-mind-heart intelligence so it can deal with any form of anxiety, conflict, and stress. Throughout the book, Tony J. Selimi shares inspiring actual client stories who have used the five principles to successfully liberate themselves from the emotional baggage and distress by fully completing the five-step method.

Things That Crash, Things That Fly

by Scott Gould Truth Matters, Love Wins: a Memoir of Choosing Faith over Fear in the Face of False Accusations

by Alexandra J. Kuisis Welcome to California: From L.A. County Jail to #1 in Sales

by Sandra La Boszko

It's also been a hit among critics: "The worldview developed here transcends science, dogma, and belief, giving readers a new code to reconnect with their true, authentic individual and the Divine within that knows how to take back control, lead authentically and live freely on your terms." Foreword written by Dr John Demartini, a World Renown Human Behavioural Specialist.

MILITARY NONFICTION Behind the Lines: A Soldier, His Family and the 10th Mountain Division

by Mary Donaldson-Evans Care Under Fire

by Bill Strusinski Surviving Son: An Afghanistan War Veteran Reveals His Nightmare Of Becoming A Gold Star Brother

by Scott DeLuzio www.IndependentPressAward.com

The Party Dolls: The True, Tragic Story of Two Americans’ Attempted Escape from a 1969 Hanoi POW Camp

by George Hayward

Brian Tracy, Author, Chairman and CEO of Brian Tracy International states, "This is an inspiring, enjoyable, fast-moving book that shows you how to unlock your full power for unlimited success."

Tony’s life story of overcoming abuse, bullying, civil war, homelessness, and then going on to graduate from one of the top five UK universities, and successfully climbing the corporate ladder is like one of those stories you see in Hollywood films.

Where Cowards Go to Die

by Benjamin Sledge

60

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Speaking of films, Tony is also a filmmaker who has co-created 17 times award-winning life coaching documentaries Living My Illusion- The Truth Hurts. He is the executive director of the just-released The Truth About Reading documentary, and just launched Into Your Divinity Documentary Series.

PERSONAL FINANCE Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is

by Sue Stevens

Tony works on a virtual basis and in-person with clients all over the globe, facilitating the realization and accomplishment of personal, relationship, professional, financial and business goals. Here are four ways Tony can assist you in creating life-changing breakthroughs, growth, and accelerating your journey to excellent health, influence, relationship, business, wealth and success.

1.

2.

3.

4.

RetireSmart ll-The Gig Economy

by Mark Anthony Grimaldi

SEXUALITY Guide To Getting It On, 10th edition

by Paul Joannides, Psy.D.

Book a Breakthrough Consultation Session by sending an email to info@tonyselimi.com.

Grab your copy of my #1 Amazon bestselling and Multi-AwardWinning books, A Path to Wisdom, #Loneliness, The Unfakeable Code®, A Path to Excellence and enroll in my Mindfulness for Higher Productivity, Performance, and Profitable Life Udemy Course!

Make the fastest progress by booking Business Strategy Session to work with you on your business and train your leaders and teams.

Book Tony to give expert advice on your TV/Radio/Podcast show or hire me as a speaker to educate, inspire and transform your audience at your next company or industry event.

Sexpert: Desire, Passion, Sensations, Intimacy, and Orgasm to Indulge in Your Best Sex Life

by Dr. Chelsie Reed

SPORTS Racing with Aloha: An Inspiring Journey from Humble Barefoot Maui Boy to Champion in the Water

by Fred Haywood

Why Baseball Is a Sport and Golf Is Not: Separating the Players from the Poseurs

by Aaron S Bayley and Luigi Di Serio

WRITING & PUBLISHING Fiction Tinker’s Guide to Whimsical Worlds

by Tod Tinker

For more information, go to tonyselimi.com and see the interview at www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-unfakeable-code%C2%AE

Purposeful Memoir as a Quest for a Thriving Future: Inspiration for Writers and Seekers

by Jennifer Browdy, PhD

MUSIC Best Practice: Inspiration and Ideas for Traditional Musicians

by Judy Minot

The Music Therapy Studio: Empowering the Soul’s Truth

by Rick Soshensky

NEW FICTION Snow Blind: Recovering After the Random Shooting

by William M. Johnson

Your Next Big Idea: Improve Your Creativity and ProblemSolving

by Samuel Sanders

PARENTING & FAMILY Fostering: A Memoir of Courage and Hope

by Carmen Maria Navarro Growing Compassionate Children: Grower’s Guide

by Sonja Wendt Happy With Baby: Essential Relationship Advice When Partners Become Parents

by Catherine O’Brien

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Real-Time Parenting: Choose Your Action Steps for the Present Moment

by Amy Armstrong, Mary Funari, Beth Miller Twice a Daughter: A Search for Identity, Family, and Belonging

by Julie Ryan McGue Why Some Animals Eat Their Young

by Dallas Louis 61

www.nycbigbookaward.com

2022 Independent Press Award: with

David B Whitacre David B Whitacre discusses "The Seven Gifts" with Gabby Olczak, President of the Independent Press Award. What is your gift? See the practicality of understanding what that means.

GAB TALKS: You quoted Socrates, “To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom”, David, explain what the seven gifts are and how this quote relates to them.

David B Whitacre: Well, the seven gifts are, in my view, an astonishing piece of historical information that essentially explains all of humanity in spiritual terms. It’s a way of explaining and understanding why people do what they do. Their central core inner motivation and the notion that the beginning of wisdom involves understanding oneself, I thought was an apropos way to open the gift story. It’s also a way of unlocking deep internal mysteries as well as unlocking understanding of others around us.

GT: So David, you’ve met a lot of very interesting people along the way I have to say. During your journey, what led you to discover the Seven Gifts and become a giftologist, which is a term that you actually coined? How have these experiences led you to that?

DBW: Well, I tried to use just good old-fashioned American storytelling to bring the gifts to life and to share, at least in terms of my own path in life. It has involved a very large spectrum of different economic classes, educational classes, cultural classes, ethnicities, races etc.

I feel like I have a pretty large broad overview of different types of people, which has www.IndependentPressAward.com

enabled me. When I first was introduced to the Seven Gifts, I realized that those patterns were replete throughout all of those spectrums. I learned the seven gifts in a class approximately 20-25 years ago, the core ideas, and that’s when I was first seeing it that it was something very extraordinary. I’ve studied other types of personality typing systems in my academic life and was able to see pretty quickly that this was a very unique set of information. So over the next 20 or 25 years, I simply embarked on a self-study protocol to try to visualize and observe things in nature and in humanity to expand my awareness of that information and to try to add to it. So I would say about half of what I shared in the book regarding the Seven Gifts was passed on to me and the other half were things that I learned through observation over a period of years.

to sort really an unimaginable amount of human behavior, which is obviously complex.

The difference between those personality typing systems and the Seven Gifts is the Seven Gifts speak to inner motivation, or core motivation. It’s a way of understanding why people do what they do, not necessarily what they do in other words you could have for example three different people who have three different gifts, and they could all be doing the same thing, but doing things for entirely different motivations or different reasons. So I argue

in the book that understanding someone’s gift and identifying their gift can frequently give you more insights into that person than they might have about themselves and also quite a bit about people that you’ve just met without them knowing that you know all that about them. I argue that there’s no faster way to get to the core of someone’s inner being, or their soul if you will, other than through the gifts.

GT: I actually took the quiz and I couldn’t wait to take it and it turns out I’m a ….

Listen to the full interview of Gabby and David’s conversation and see the book trailer at www.independentpressaward.com/thesevengifts

Be sure to take the Gift Quiz: www.sevengifts.com/gift-quiz you’ll find it enlightening The Seven Gifts has earned eight distinct awards in a variety of categories. If you understand the Gifts, you can frequently know more about people than they may know about themselves, and quite a bit about people you have just met, without them knowing that you know all that about them.

DAVID B WHITACRE IS A PROFESSIONAL planner living in Chicago, the White City, and working in a skyscraper next to what most locals still call the Sears Tower. David was born in 1962 in Columbus, Ohio but grew up mainly in Kansas City. He graduated with Honors in English from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, and also studied Philosophy and Psychology there.

He lives in the West Loop, loves fast cars, and enjoys Recreational Organizing. The Seven Gifts was written over four years as an act of love for the kids, friends, and eternity while riding the train to and from work and in neighborhood coffee shops. David is still in pursuit of his Gift PhD.

GT: David you mentioned personality types. How are the Seven Gifts different than let’s say a personality type or a zodiac sign?

DBW: I discuss in the book different types of personality systems, archetypes, I believe Shakespeare used personality typing systems as well. There’s Myers-Briggs, Zodiac signs, Enneagram etc. The issue that I find that’s problematic with those systems is that they attempt

62

www.nycbigbookaward.com

AUDIOBOOKS - FICTION A Theory of Expanded Love

by Caitlin Hicks

Out of Poland - Novella

by Breakfield and Burkey

Cali the Destroyer

by Sol Luckman

The Last Professional

by Ed Davis

Clarissa Hedgestone and the Blood Moon

by C. Jill Hefte

The Zadok Series: Pastel Pink (Book 1); Ruby Red (Book 2); Powerful Purples (Book 3)

by Nikki Minty

Em’s Awful Good Fortune

by Marcie Maxfield

Nutshell (The Brainbow Chronicles)

by John Albedo

The Essence of Nathan Biddle

by J. William Lewis

Out of Poland - Novella

by Breakfield and Burkey

The Glimpse

by Lis Bensley

Prophecy of Love

by T. Satterfield

The Golden Hearts Club: A Novel

by Cinda K. Swalley

Searching for Jimmy Page

by Christy Alexander Hallberg

COMEDY

The Baseball Widow

by Suzanne Kamata

Remy’s Dilemma: Special Delivery

by Andrew Snook

The Best Part of Us

by Sally Cole-Misch

COMICS AND GRAPHIC NOVELS Crude Awakenings

by Jeff Nichols, Stephen O Mahoney; Illustrator: DICI Dela Cruz

The Dreamcatcher Codes

by Barbara Newman

River Current

by M. Lee Martin

Homespun Mercies

by DJ Hill

Giant Banana Over Texas: Darkly Humorous Tales

by Mark Nutter

No Evil is Wide

by Randall Watson

The Saga of Evil Monkey Man Season One

by N Blake Seals Illustrated by Butch Mapa

The Bishop’s Palace

by Janet K. Shawgo

The Kimono Tattoo

by Rebecca Copeland The Last Professional

by Ed Davis The Serpent, The Puma, and The Condor: A Tale of Machu Picchu

by Gayle Marie The Vitruvian Heir, Book I: The Unraveling

by L.S. Kilroy

Snowlands: A Blood Moon

by Morr Meroz; Ill. Collin Fogel

CROSS GENRE Clochan

by Lawrence Patrick O’Brien Plague of Flies: Revolt of the Spirits, 1846

by Laurel Anne Hill

The Donor

by Patrick M. Garry What Seems True

by James Garrison

FICTION A Place to Hide

by David Salner Back to One

by Antonia Gavrihel Becoming Nora

by Margaret Farrell Kirby Blood Up North

by Fredrick Soukup Chasing Rabbits

by Rodolfo Del Toro

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Harry Harambee’s Kenyan Sundowner: A Novel

by Gerald Everett Jones House of Fossils

by Marilene Phipps Ice Out

by Susan Speranza Lock Up: The Secrets of Mylin - Book III

by Joe Klingler My Famous Brain

by Diane Wald 63

www.nycbigbookaward.com

Through the Waters and the Wild

by Greg Fields

What a Wonderful World This Could Be

by Lee Zacharias

To The Stars: A Novel

by Shannon Bradley-Colleary

Where Madness Lies

by Sylvia True

Unfettered Journey

by Gary F. Bengier

Witness to the Crucifixion

by David Benjamin

NEW FICTION

(FIRST-TIME PUBLISHED) Between the Lines: A novel

by Sarah Lynn Ta Le – Book 1: Knowledge

by Yessoh G.D.

The Clothes That Make You

by L.S. Kilroy

HISTORIAL FICTION

An Ambassador to Syria

by Cathy Sultan Bloodroot

by Daniel V. Meier, Jr. Devil By the Tail

by Jeanne Matthews Falling Pomegranate Seeds: All Manner of Things

by Wendy J. Dunn

PARANORMAL

PENTADAKTYLOS: Love, Promises and Patriotism in the Last Days of Of Dreams and Angels

by Jared Morrison Colonial Cyprus

by Robert Egby That Magic Mischief

by Susanna Allen Tabula Rasa

by Jayanthi Sankar The Blanchard Witches of Daihmler County The Broda Salt Cabin

by Micah House

by A. H. Nedani

Finding Napoleon: A Novel

by Margaret Rodenberg Fred: Buffalo Building of Dreams

by Frances R. Schmidt LANDFALL

by Hugh FitzGerald Ryan

Confederacy of Fenians

by James D. Nealon EO-N

by Dave Mason Hurrah for Liberty

by Oran Brucks www.IndependentPressAward.com

The Wand, The Madigan Chronicles, Book Three

by Marieke Lexmond

A Collection of Short Stories & Poems

by Gary E. Smith

On Traigh Lar Beach

by Dianne Ebertt Beeaff

Black Bear Creek

by Joshua Cross

The Ballad of Cherrystoke and Other Stories

by Melanie McGee Bianchi

The Puppet Maker’s Daughter

by Karla M. Jay

Lockdown: A Collection of Dark Tales

by Arthur Herbert

The Marvelous Misfits of Westminster

by Andrea Hahnfeld

The Soul of a Stranger: A Harvey & McCrary Adventure

by Phillips Otts

No Diving Allowed

by Louise Marburg

Women of Fire and Snow: Short Stories

by Nati del Paso

Not for Polite Society and Other Short Stories: Fictional tales on a ride of twists, turns, and the unexpected

by Elle Stockton

MILITARY FICTION Brothers Of War, The Iron Brigade At Gettysburg

by Michael Eisenhut

The Lives of Diamond Bessie

by Jody Hadlock

SHORT STORIES

The Lady of the Cliffs

by Rebecca Kightlinger The Lone Snake: The Story of Sofonisba Anguissola

by Lisa Vihos

Megge of Bury Down

by Rebecca Kightlinger

The Missing Peace

by Tom Joyce

NEW ADULT FICTION

Watkins Glen

by Eleanor Lerman

A Storm Before the War: A Harvey & McCrary Adventure

by Phillip Otts

The Golden Hearts Club: A Novel

by Cinda K. Swalley

Reflections of a Hessian

by Richard F. Leighton Seeing the Elephant: One Man’s Return to the Horrors of the Civil War

by T.W. Harvey

LAST

The Crimean Circle Vol. 1

by David Kushner

64

Minute

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE www.nycbigbookaward.com

2021 NYC Big Book Award: with

Gary Turchin

In Through a Broken Window, this coming-of-age saga, 12-year-old Jerry Epstein's mettle gets tested (on and off the baseball field) on many occasions.

When a "mad man" shows up with a gun, the test becomes a life and death matter. Set in 1964 New Jersey, the narrative drive of this novel will take your breath away. He was the strong-armed shortstop on his school's softball team, but his most consequential throw may have been the brick he tossed through a mad man's window...​

A mid-century boomer brat, Gary Turchin has his roots in the post-industrial soil of New Jersey (Linden, exit 136 off the Garden State Parkway). After some restless college years in Worcester, MA, he resettled in California in 1974. He began his creative career as a photographer, but his versatility and curiosity drove him to explore other media. For 45 years, Gary has lived bravely on his creative edge. A well-traveled performing poet; a photo-graphic artist and illustrator, and now, with "Through a Broken Window," a novelist, Gary has never stopped producing original, thoughtful, humorous, and often profound work. This despite having been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2004. Instead of dampening his spirit, it motivated him to keep going, leading to the production (in 2012) of his inspirational film, "The Healthiest Man On Earth: A Poet's Journey With Parkinson's," among other creative outpourings.

Listen to the interview www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/through-a-broken-window

and find out more about Gary at www.garyturchin.net/home www.IndependentPressAward.com

65

www.nycbigbookaward.com