Summer Reads

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Publisher’s Letter Ah, Summer Reads is finally here.

As I make up my ‘have-to,’ ‘want to,’ and ‘pure entertainment’ lists, I find myself reminded of how much fun reading can be when I explore unfamiliar book titles. Some of the best books I found by ‘accident’.

Discover new titles and authors in this issue and on our site www. independentpressaward.com, and open your mind to worlds you couldn’t imagine finding yourself. My default is nonfiction, and for me, summer is a time to catch up on the memoirs, biographies, history, science, sports, music and culture book titles. I know the fiction readers in my family enjoy thrillers, contemporary fiction, historical fiction, romance, horror, etc. For once, maybe it’s time to try something different.

A top pick is Incident at San Miguel by Alan Sidransky. Based on a true story, two brothers find themselves on opposite sides.

You’ll enjoy the dilemma of how far we will go to protect those we love. This book appeals to both the fiction and nonfiction readers.

For your local library hawking the young readers programs, we all know how important it is to get students to read fun, unique books that can entice them. A top pick is Out of the Beaks of Birds: Our Crazy, Pesky…Verbs by Cinda Klickna. This colorful and fun language arts book will help children learn the correct use of verbs, while transporting them as they learn.

Whatever you decide to take to the beach, the mountains, or your safe quiet place at home or abroad, this year try some of the titles independent authors and publishers have suggested here. I would be grateful if you could take a moment to write to me about your experience at Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com. Your feedback will help me to make future editions even better.

Until next issue,

Ted Olczak Publisher

The magazine Independent Press Award and NYC Big Book Award present is published six times per year and has been issued the following ISSNs by the U.S. ISSN Center, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.: Format: Online Format: ISSN 2836-9157; and the Print Format: ISSN 2836-9149.

Any questions or comments, please contact the Publisher Ted Olczak at Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Call for entries in the NYC Big Book Award Publisher’s Letter GAB TALKS Interview: Steven Procko Summer Reads Listings GAB TALKS Interview: Don Berg It is Time for Summer Reading, My Favorite Time if the Year GAB TALKS Interview: Alan Sidransky GAB TALKS Interview: Shelly Frome GAB TALKS Interview: M. Timothy Murray GAB TALKS Interview: Michael Dow

L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 39

Call for entries in the Independent Press Award Publishing Services

Discover the newest voices of SF & Fantasy chosen by some of your favorite authors.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express permission from the publisher.

“The flagship of short fiction.”

—Orson Scott Card “Some of the most excellent speculative fiction that you can find anywhere. They’re cutting edge. They’re new.”

—Nnedi Okorafor

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage and retrieval system - except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review to be printed in a magazine or newspaper - without permission in writing from the publisher.

“The most vibrant and exciting showcase of new talent.”

—Kevin J. Anderson

To submit your book, visit our websites: Fall 2023 https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/

Available at Amazon, Audible, B&N, Books-A-Million, Bookshop.org, IndieBound, and wherever fine books are sold.

(More consumer focused; different judging; allows for all authors and publishers to participate; announced in the fall of every year) or Spring 2024:

Read earlier titles in the series:

12 award-winning stories 3 bonus short stories by bestselling authors 16 full-color illustrations by award-winning artists

https://www.independentpressaward.com/

To advertise, please contact Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com, or visit our website, https://www.independentpressaward.com/advertise www.IndependentPressAward.com

Trade Paperback: 978-161986-768-0 • $22.95 US EPUB: 978-161986-765-9 • Audiobook: 978-161986-770-3

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Procko S

Author: Rebel Correspondent

teven Procko received a 2023 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite in History for his book, Rebel Correspondent. Steven is a documentarian, cinematographer and history buff.

His documentary series “There’s History Around Every Bend,” led him to the discovery of Private Arba F. Shaw’s writings featured in Rebel Correspondent.

Steve’s commercial film production company Steve Procko Productions (SPP) has earned three Emmys, over fifty Addy Awards, Telly Awards, and two Promax awards. His Emmy-

award-winning financial literacy program Talkin’ Money Minutes is available on over 100 Public Television stations nationwide.

Also an accomplished fine art photographer, Steve’s work has been exhibited at The Carnegie Institute in Pittsburgh, The Museum of Art in Ft. Lauderdale, in addition to solo and group exhibitions throughout the United States. Steve shares a mountain log cabin in Georgia and a home in Florida with his wife Lauren and their dog Rigby.

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Rebel Correspondent by Steve Procko is the true story of a young man who joined the Confederate army just days after his eighteenth birthday. Nearly 35 years later at the age of 54 he penned 55 articles, 40,000 words, over the course of 11 weeks. The articles “My Experiences In the War of the 1860 Briefly Told” were printed in a small north George newspaper, The Walker County Messenger between 1901 and 1903. They were all but forgotten until Procko discovered them while researching a documentary “There’s History Around Every Bend”.

Listen to the full interview: https://bit.ly/42H6CXX and visit rebelcorrespondent.com, Capturedfreedom.com, and Historybend.org.

Rebel Correspondent and Captured Freedom are part of “The History Around Every Bend” book series available at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, BooksAMillion.com and other retailer websites.

Listen to the full interview:

Shaw’s articles painted a true picture of the everyday accounts and the harsh realities of war. He had typhoid, was wounded twice, and in fact would experience effects of these wounds for the rest of his life. https://bit.ly/42H6CXX

Despite the 36 year gap, Shaw’s articles are rich with details, names and places, and events. Procko plans to develop a documentary based on the book.

Procko’s second book Captured Freedom will be published in 2023. It’s another fascinating Civil War story about nine POW Union officers and their amazing escape.

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AUTOBIOGRAPHY / MEMOIR

PRESS ARD AW

From Liberty To Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream

By Janice S. Ellis, Ph.D. “Ellis sets her personal battles within the context of the civil rights and feminist movements, both of which helped fuel her determination. She recounts many experiences relevant today...

An important historical perspective on two continuing struggles.”

—Kirkus Review

Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Ingram Wholesale janicesellis.com/usariseup-inc ISBN 978-1641147514

Purchase Price: $22.95

AUTOBIOGRAPHY / MEMOIR

From Liberty To Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream – New Edition

Janice S. Ellis, Ph.D.,

Award-Winning Author including a 2020 Independent Press Award Winner

By Janice S. Ellis, Ph.D. A powerful, compelling, and inspiring true story for girls and women who seek to discover their purpose in life, their role in society, and dare not let any obstacle stop them from realizing it. May you, as you learn of the author’s trials and triumphs, be inspired to live your best self, too. A Discussion Guide is included for use by book clubs, classes, and group forums.

To Inform and Inspire Readers Through Real Life Experiences When I reflect upon my life, the odds of my completing high school and going to college appeared insurmountable.

Earning two Master of Arts degrees and a Ph.D. certainly seemed out of reach. Becoming a government and corporate executive, an advocate journalist, an awardwinning author? What? But I have been intentional about understanding the forces and circumstances that impacted, and continue to impact, my life and profoundly influence my work and writings.

Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Ingram Wholesale janicesellis.com/usariseup-inc ISBN 979-8987856109

CHILDREN’S FICTION

Wilhelmina Quigley: Magic School Dropout

My hope is that in sharing my life and work, you will be inspired to follow that nagging unsettling inescapable unrelenting thought that through your voice, the power of words, and meaningful work, you can effect change—not only as a journalist, but as an author, leader, speaker, as a concerned citizen working for a better community, city, nation, society—whatever role you are compelled to play in fulfilling your purpose and realizing your dream. Never give up!

By Liese Sherwood-Fabre Family wields the greatest magic.

A missing father. A mother bewitched. Wilhelmina must use her unpredictable magic to catch whoever—or whatever—is stalking her parents. Will her powers be enough to restore her family?

Wilhelmina Quigley: Magic School Dropout is a fish-out-of-water story with touches of mystery, fantasy, and humor. A witty tale of enchantment.

RELEASES JULY 2023 Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble https://www.liesesherwoodfabre.com/ ISBN 978-1952408274

A LT E R N AT I V E H E A LT H

Abundantly Well: Seven Medicines, The Wise Woman Way

Sela Blue and the Magic Ticket

By Alisia Grenville Sela Blue and the Magic Ticket highlights the beauty of a child’s imagination and how the imagination can transform an ordinary day into an extraordinary one! Join Sela Blue and the magic ticket for an adventure around the world as she is transported to Paris, London, Venice, India, Kenya, and more!

Her adventure will take you to places you only dream of.

Available in bookstores, Amazon and website: https://Wisewomanbookshop.com

Available on Amazon and IngramSpark. https://selablue.com/

Wholesale distribution: https://www.ashtreepublishing.com

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Purchase Price: $13.99

C H I L D R E N ’ S F I C T I O N / I N S P I R AT I O N A L

By Susun S. Weed The eagerly awaited sixth book in the best-selling Wise Woman Herbal Series fully integrates modern medicine with a wide range of scientifically proven alternatives. Seven medicines — serenity, story, energy, lifestyle, alternative, pharmaceutical, and deep medicine create abundant wellness. Fully indexed, profusely illustrated, includes recipes.

ISBN 978-1888123227

Purchase Price: $19.95

ISBN 978-1942537045

Purchase Price: $24.95

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Purchase Price: $14.99

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CHILDREN’S

The Adventures of Toby and Bonnie Bunny

By Teresa Nornes The Adventures of Toby and Bonnie Bunny is a Mom’s Choice Awards® Silver Recipient!

This is a cute story about Toby and Bonnie. Toby is a wise bunny who teaches Bonnie how to do the right thing and make good choices. Join them on their adventure as they find their forever home.

Kenneth McQuarrie,

Available on Amazon.com, Blurb.com or author’s website www.teresanornesauthor.com

author of The Orphan Carpenter

ISBN 978-1715810245

2023 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite in the Christian category Awards and recognition are nice, but I didn’t write this book for critical acclaim. Instead, this book is simply to encourage and bring hope to the reader.

Purchase Price: $14.00

CHRISTIAN: NONFICTION

The Orphan Carpenter

By Kenneth Ian McQuarrie “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”

Have you ever wondered where God is? What did I do to deserve this? Does God care? Does he even exist?

Thoughts flooded my head from our traumatic failed adoption.

“Lord, where were you this time? Is this how our seven-yearlong journey to have children ends? Are we being punished?

This adoption seemed so right. I thought I was ready, that I could help these kids. After all, I started life as an Orphan.”

As you read these true stories like parables, may they be a testament that God is present and active in your life, that He loves you and has a plan to give you hope and a future.

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Jesus said, “In this world, you will have trouble.

But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33

Available on Amazon and

https://theorphancarpenter.com/ 978-1954437548

Purchase Price: $14.99-$24.99

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Joy & Art: How to create a colorful life

By Anna Karolina Larsson For anyone who wants to give their creativity some space to blossom and who longs to start painting without any musts or demands. Perhaps you just need a gentle prod to get going and make more time for creativeness in your everyday life. Simplicity is the focus here because I love to keep things uncomplicated and straightforward, and it should be easy to get stuck into new, innovative ideas. The book has been structured as a 30-day journal with daily tips and exercises.

Available on Amazon and author’s website https://www.annakarolina.se/ ISBN 978-9189011991

Purchase Price: $37.00

ADVENTURE / PARANORMAL

Praesidium (Shadows In The Wind Book One)

By McKinley Aspen A classic action adventure with a dash of empowerment and a dollop of the supernatural.

Who will endure, the Kathryn of the past, or that of the future?

Praesidium can simply be described as “Good people with mad skills working to bring hope to a dark world.”

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble Globally distributed Ingram, Edelweiss, Smashwords, KDP, and more ISBN Imprint: Muse Literary Paperback ISBN: 978-1-958714-00-3 / $14.99 Ebook ISBN: 978-1-958714-01-0 / $2.99 Hardcover ISBN: 978-1-958714-02-7 / $24.99 www.IndependentPressAward.com

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CRIME FICTION

The Nigerian Mafia: Mumbai

By Onyeka Nwelue Actor Uche Mbadiegwu leaves Lagos to join Bollywood, hoping to play exceptional roles and make it big.

Like a flash, Periwinkle appears in his life and changes everything. Efemena wants to live a life of independence, but there is more to being a Nigerian in Mumbai - a constant escape from the Indian police and narcotics agents.

This novel is a tale of violence, drugs, human trafficking, murder and sex.

Liese Sherwood-Fabre, author of Wilhelmina Quigley: Magic School Dropout

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble https://bit.ly/40JWool ISBN 978-1739276775

I hope readers enjoy Wilhelmina Quigley: Magic School Dropout as much as I loved writing about my misfit witch and her search for belonging. Most people have experienced moments of agonizing awkwardness—just like Wilhelmina. But like her, if they persevere, they will succeed—although not always in the way they imagined. Wilhelmina’s perseverance required sacrifice, but what she gained was greater than what she lost.

Purchase Price: $24.99

E D U C AT I O N

The Art of Being a School Counselor

By Nancy Regas 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!

HINT: 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.

Available on Outskirts Press, Amazon http://bit.ly/3iPyAzs ISBN 978-1977235961

Purchase Price: $17.99

FA M I LY R E L AT I O N S H I P S

Last Dance; And a Loving Mother

By Stephen Manning A gripping story of how a loving family deals with the many great successes’ life has to offer but also how a family deals with some significant tragedies, including the loss of a son and the devastating effects of breast cancer on a Loving Mother. It’s a wonderful journey through the development of a family and the strong influence on that family by a ‘Loving Mother’. Mary Ann’s final dance with her son at his wedding was a great tribute to her strength and will power to get to that dance floor.

Available on Amazon. https://www.stephenmanning.net ISBN 978-1734624007

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FICTION

An Upside Down Sky

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Ed Davis,

By Linda Dahl When Lidia takes a tour of a recently reopened Asian country that was long closed to the outside world, the trip becomes an unexpected catalyst for her and her tour mates.

Against a backdrop of pagodas, unfamiliar and sometimes inscrutable customs, volatile politics, and petty squabbles, the American tourists’ assumptions unravel, with sometimes hilarious, sometimes tragic results.

author of The Last Professional 2023 Independent Press Award / 2022 NYC Big Book Award Winner

Mostly I write to connect with readers. That is why, in spite of the conventional wisdom not to do so, I read all my reviews, both good and bad. My writing has reached that reviewer, that reader, and I am grateful for the connection. Having my work officially recognized by the Independent Press & NYC Big Book Awards, takes that connection to a whole new level. Yes, the recognition feels good --- very good --- but it is more than that. It is knowing that, in the tidal wave of books coming out every day, mine has risen to the surface, buoyed there by discerning judges who found a connection to my writing, and who want to share that connection with others. The act of writing is like the sound of one hand clapping. It is its own reward. It has to be. Recognition for that writing is like putting two hands together, and that applause is music to any writer’s ears.

Published by She Writes Press Distributed by Publishers Group West ISBN 978-1-64742-329-2 / E-ISBN 978-1-64742-330-8 Purchase Price: $16.95

FICTION

Black Wing Sky

By Kaylin McFarren There is no terror in death...only in the anticipation of it.

When Lucifer’s soldiers captured his brother, the Seven-Star General of the Archangel Army of Heaven, Samara Daemonium thought it was a turning point in the war. Victory for Hell was on the horizon, as was her peaceful future with her Cambion soulmate, Damian Hunter. But now a deadly new threat has emerged. Fire-breathing dragons are emerging from Bulwark lead by Vetis Kidadl – a black-hearted villain who is determined to destroy Nexus and all its inhabitants in a catastrophic war.

In this epic fourth installment in the Gehenna series, Nexus’s fate and the future of every living creature on the planet rests solely on her shoulders. Can she defeat the Black Dragon, rescue her son, return to Middle Earth, and find the happiness she so richly deserves? Or will Lucifer and his daughter Lucinda destroy Samara’s only chance for peace, love and happiness?

FA N TA S Y

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Of Fog, and Fire, and Ice: Book 3 of the Kotidor Chronicles

By JW Warner Aqqa runs away from her family’s village to escape an arranged marriage while she is still a child. She only has one plan and that is to get to the Kotidor that she saw with her brother on a trading trip. Struggling against the harsh climate of the region, the only thing that gets her through is sheer force of will.

Can she survive in a place where her sword cannot help her battle the ice and snow?

Amazon.com, Powells.com, Barnes & Noble https://kaylinmcfarren.com/ ISBN xxxxx

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online book sellers. https://www.jwwarner.com/ ISBN 979-8420568903

FICTION

Purchase Price: $14.99

Cannibal Club (The Brainbow Chronicles)

FA N TA S Y

By John Albedo Upon completion of his surgical residency, Dr. Chase Callaway enters the world of private practice in Los Angeles, only to be greeted by a wall of stunning peer rejection, beginning mere days after hanging his shingle. Although it takes years to clear his name, the scars remain, and he believes less in Providential purpose, and more in a multi-generational family curse. Returning to academic medicine at his alma mater, Dr. Callaway’s indomitable spirit meets head-on with unrelenting tribulation.

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By Mary K. Savarese 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.

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

Will Lily be doomed forever more?

Available on Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and other online retailers

www.johnalbedo.com

978-1684339433

Purchase Price: $24.95

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble www.maryksavarese.com E-Book: https://amzn.to/3QelZRD ISBN 978-1953278210 Paperback: $19.95 ASIN: B09HXS9B3K • ISBN: Hardcover 978-1953278203 ISBN 978-1-953278-22-7 E-Book www.IndependentPressAward.com

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Don

Berg

Author: Schooling For Holistic Equality

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Don created the Attitutor Classroom Climate: a new tool that can be used by educators to ensure their students are optimally engaged.

It provides feedback on how classroom leadership affects students.

Information which is essential to ensuring student engagement. A formative assessment for classroom management. The tool can be found on https://www.holisticequity.org/.

on Berg is the author of Schooling for Holistic Equality, winner of the 2023 Independent Press Award in Psychology and a Distinguished Favorite in Education.

Don is a psychologist with more than twenty years of experience in leading children in self-directed educational settings. He earned a degree in Psychology from Reed College in Portland Oregon. A researcher, alternative education practitioner, leader, and author.

Don’s work has been published in numerous journals and he has presented at conferences worldwide. Don is the founder of Attitutor LLC and the Executive Director of Deeper Learning Advocates. A self proclaimed recovering faux achiever, Don lives in West Linn, Oregon on The Joyful Llama Ranch.

Listen to the full interview:

https://bit.ly/3VHAiSx

Schooling for Holistic Equality details how the the American School System is in crisis due disengagement among students and staff. Don maintains that students go through the motions of learning without actually mastering the material. He has labeled it “fauxachievement”.

He believes that a possible solution is psychological expertise on all levels to make things equitable in the classroom. Policy makers, teachers and students will be engaged and feel a sense of belonging resulting in an excitement about learning which will ultimately lead to a deeper understanding and grasp of subject matter.

The goal is to achieve optimal student engagement and make “Deeper Learning become the norm, not the exception”.

“Learning is deeper when needs are satisfied and shallower when they are not.”

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FICTION

Conspiracy

By Norma A. Wyman Carrie Franklin has no knowledge of her past. She cannot develop relationships with there adult. She puts herself in danger searching for answers about her past.

Mary H Reed,

Available at Amazon ISBN 978-1649526250

author of One for the Ark On reading One for the Ark: I hope that readers are entertained and that some of the divisiveness around transgender issues is diffused by increased empathy on all sides.

FICTION

One for the Ark

By Mary H Reed WINNER! Foreword Reviews Book of the Year, General Fiction, Bronze (2016) For a small-town conservative mayor and his liberal activist wife, politics, principles and personalities collide when the Blessed Virgin Mary appears on an underpass, a long-standing citizen builds an exact replica of Noah’s Ark, and their daughter makes a life-altering decision, causing both her feminist mother and her traditional father to confront the contradictions in each of their long-held beliefs and civic values.

Touching, amusing, and ultimately poignant, this novel plays out in a quirky Wisconsin town and claims the reader’s affection from the very first page.

FICTION

Heavenly Blues (The Brainbow Chronicles)

By John Albedo Will Glendenning is a medical school drop-out, a PhD dropout, and very nearly a drop-out from life itself. Will returns home for a friend’s funeral. However, his trip home is to lay the groundwork for a large family foundation that, oddly enough, is restricted to cancer research based on a ludicrous premise originating from Will’s deceased physician-father. Years later, to everyone’s surprise, the research agenda turns productive, largely through anonymous tips received online. When Will connects these tips to his friend’s suicide note from years earlier, an investigation is launched and a cold case turns hot.

Available on Amazon.com, Blurb.com or author’s website maryhutchingsreed.com ISBN 978-0996252553

Purchase Price: $16.95

FICTION

Available on Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and other online retailers

www.johnalbedo.com

978-1685131135

Purchase Price: $6.50

The Last Professional

Purchase Price: $22.95

By Ed Davis If you long to indulge your wanderlust, to see America as you’ve never seen it before, and to meet characters you’ll never forget, this is the book for you.

FICTION INDEPENDENT PR ES

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By John Albedo In 1932, Neva Pettibone, who endured six stillborn births, is in labor again. Doc” Callaway is a pharmacist, who practices medicine illegally, delivers Neva’s baby. Ivy, the baby, struggles with multiple congenital issues and ends up as a ward of the state. Years later, “Doc’s” grandson Chase, a med school graduate, works at the State Mental Hospital where Ivy happens to live & the two lives intertwine. Observing a surgical procedure where there is instantaneous success, Chase alters his path toward general surgery. 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? Or, is the saga a simple tale made complex by quirky events?

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Lynden Hoover, a young man on the brink of a new beginning, cannot embrace it without confronting the traumas of his past.

Help comes from The Duke, an old loner who calls America’ s landscape his home. He clings to an honor code, but in fleeing from Short Arm, his merciless enemy, his code is being tested.

The Duke mentors Lynden, enlisting old traveling friends to keep himself and his apprentice just ahead of Short Arm’ s relentless pursuit. When two of those friends are murdered, the stakes become life or death.

Nutshell (The Brainbow Chronicles)

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Bonds are formed, secrets exposed, sacrifices made, trusts betrayed; all against a breathtaking American landscape of promise and peril. Three unforgettable characters, hurtling toward a spellbinding climax where pasts and futures collide, and lives hang in the balance.

Available on Bookshop.org, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple, all major online sellers, and many bookstores; Distributed by IPG www.eddavisbooks.com ISBN 978-1951122256

Purchase Price: $15.95

Available on Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and other online retailers

www.johnalbedo.com

978-1684337163

www.IndependentPressAward.com

Purchase Price: $21.95

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HISTORICAL FICTION

Incident at San Miguel

By Alan Sidransky Havana, Cuba. December 1958. Two brothers find themselves on opposite sides of Castro’s revolution. One dark night, after rescuing a leader of the revolt under house arrest, one brother finds himself hunted. The other, an influential attorney, must make a choice. Help his brother, placing the whole family at risk, or let Batista’s forces capture him. His decision will haunt them both for the rest of their lives. How far will we go to protect those we love? Based on a true story, Incident at San Miguel takes us there.

Frances Altman, author of Destiny’s Daughter

Available on KPD, Amazon and B&N; Trade distribution through Ingram. https://ajsidransky.com/

In Destiny’s Daughter I wanted to blend historical facts about Mary Walker while drawing out her inspirational guidance, personality and the society she lived in. She persevered as a strong, spirited advocate for women’s rights and welfare. Often forgotten, she is a role model whose advice and common sense is still a guide for women today.

A timely read for summer or review year around.

Purchase Price: $16.99

HISTORICAL FICTION / SPY THRILLER

Trilogy: A Storm Before The War, The Soul of a Stranger, The Price of Betrayal

By Phillip Otts The Harvey-McCrary trilogy is both a work of historical fiction and a spy thriller set in the Civil War era.

The first novel, A Storm Before the War, sets the stage, as two half-brothers find common ground during their adventures in Cuba and the North Atlantic, where they uncover a plot to dismantle the United States of America.

The Soul of a Stranger, is set in Charleston, South Carolina as the Civil War begins. The brothers find themselves involved in a desperate struggle to preserve the Union and barely escape with their lives.

The final novel, The Price of Betrayal, is set in Haiti, where Harvey sought refuge following the failure of Reconstruction, and forged an alliance of sorts with Fredrick Douglass, who was serving as the U.S. Ambassador in Port-au-Prince at the time.

In 2022, The Soul of a Stranger was selected as a Distinguished Favorite in the historical fiction category by the Independent Press Award.

Available to order from your favorite bookseller, or direct from the publisher at dxvaros.com

HISTORY-BIOGRAPHY / WOMEN’S INTEREST

Destiny’s Daughter

By Frances Altman Destiny’s Daughter is a creative chronology of the life of suffragist Mary Edwards Walker. It emphasizes a woman’s personality, resilience and achievements. She found camaraderie among soldiers on the battlefield, in Congressional hallways and patrons of Dime Museums. An extraordinary woman whose philosophy, advice and activities parallel the goals of women today. Only woman recipient of Medal of Honor.

Available at most bookstores nationwide, Amazon and B&N; Apprentice House Press. Distributed by Ingram. https://www.facebook.com/frances.altman.77/ ISBN 978-1627204231

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Purchase Price: $17.99

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It is time for

Summer Reading, My Favorite Time of the Year

By Grant Bremmer

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t’s summertime! Time to relax and enjoy oneself by exploring something new, a time when a love of learning can flower. And, of course, reading great books is at the top of the list. Summer is the time for pleasure, not pressure, and enjoying reading to stimulate the mind. For parents, encouraging your teens to read during the summer is an engaging way to learn and have fun. It can lead to interesting conversations, new vocabulary words, observations, and different kinds of images—whole new worlds.

books. So saving my pocket money for a month, I purchased my first book at 14 during summer break. It was Biggles, Secret Agent by Captain W. E. Jones. There were many more to follow.

This passion for reading was the foundation for a successful career. Surprised at securing an interview for a job at the BBC, I scoured the local bookstore and luckily found The Story of Broadcasting by A.R. Burrows (which I read within two days). There is no doubt that reading that book helped me secure my position where I worked for the next thirty years. The ability to read is a precious gift, as so much can be gained. It is the vital foundation for learning and being successful. Encourage your teens to read—reluctant readers may be one book away from discovering the love of reading. You will see the change when reading is fun, not a chore.

Reading can also effectively boost academic skills while being engaged outside the classroom and enriching summertime experiences. A great summer read for the whole family is Writers of the Future Volume 39. It is full of winning short speculative stories accompanied by superb illustrations.

Each story takes the reader on a different path, from humorous to scary. The stories are enthralling and entertaining. Here is the review from OnlineBookClub.org: “Perfect 5 out of 5 stars. I thoroughly enjoyed all of the short stories. There is literally something for everyone, and the illustrations linked with each short story were mesmerizing.” There is a wealth of talent waiting to be discovered. The Writers of the Future is a writing competition for new authors using blind judging.

The annual anthology is a collection of stories hand-picked by authors including Brandon Sanderson, Orson Scott Card, Nnedi Okorafor, Kevin J. Anderson, Larry Niven, Jody Lynn Nye, and other masters of the genre.

One of the most significant benefits is transporting yourself to different time periods and experiencing other cultures—improving your knowledge of the world. It can open our minds to different ideas which may challenge our own and cause us to view things in a different light.

In conclusion, no matter whether you enjoy your summer at home, snatching breaks in a busy schedule, or traveling afar, pick up some great books this summer, relax, and escape to another world.

By Grant Bremner Born in Scotland, he spent his entire working life with the BBC in London. He is now an author of speculative fiction short stories and novels, including the Chaotic Space series. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grant-Bremner/e/B005D783HM

How can you go wrong?

Reading books fully engages your mind and imagination. Any activity with qualities in which the brain is entirely focused on a single task is proven to reduce stress and enhance relaxation.

Being the youngest of six children, my family could not afford www.IndependentPressAward.com

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A.J.

Sidransky Author: Incident at San Miguel

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ward-winning novelist A.J. Sidransky’s most recent book is Incident at San Miguel (release date: May 19th). Alan has penned numerous articles, short stories, and historical fiction novels including his debut, Forgiving Maximo Rothman, which is Book One in the Forgiving Series, and The Interpreter, Book One in the Justice Series.

close to the character, feel their emotions, and understand their circumstances, according to Alan.

Listen to the full interview here: https://bit.ly/3B8Tsaw and to learn more about Alan, his current work, and purchase his books visit ajsidransky.com.

Alan is fluent in Spanish and considers the Dominican Republic his second home and an inspiration for many of his stories. A Bronx native, Alan is a longtime resident of Washington Heights where he lives with his wife, a digital advertising consultant.

Listen to the full interview:

Incident At San Miguel is set in 1959 Havana Cuba, during the Cuban Revolution and its aftermath. The story focuses on a Jewish Cuban family. Specifically, we follow two brothers Aaron and Moises Cohan who are on diametrically opposed sides of the political spectrum. The Cohan brothers have little in common other than a shared Jewish heritage.

https://bit.ly/3B8Tsaw

For this impressive historical fiction piece, Alan collaborated with Miriam Bradman Abrahams, a storyteller and Cuban born daughter of Cuban Jewish refugees. The Cohan brothers were inspired by the true story of her father Juan Bradman and her uncle Soloman Bradman. The main theme of the story is love, loyalty, and responsibility to family.

Alan likes to write stories that focus on ordinary people who face real struggles “I hope to bring to light the stories of those who have triumphed over oppression”.

“I focus on the personal experience of everyday people faced with extraordinary circumstances. What does one do when faced with events beyond their control? As a member of a family ravaged by the Holocaust, I am determined to tell the stories of refugees and survivors I’ve known.” An avid reader and history buff, Alan was inspired and influenced by many writers including Boris Paternak (Doctor Zhivago) and Hemingway.

Unlike a memoir or a nonfiction book, Alan appreciates how broad a fiction work can be. A work of fiction allows the reader to get very www.IndependentPressAward.com

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JUVENILE FICTION

If Roses Were Blue

By Debbie Jenae College student Chris believes her young sister’s friend is keeping a terrible secret—one that Chris had also kept at that age. With tenderness and insight she tells her story, going back to a decision that marked the beginning of a series of rescues, including her own! A lady of light, a boy named Gus, and a stolen dog all share in this award-winning adventure of courage, trust, and friendship.

“A unique and extraordinary read… Should be a part of every community library collection.”

–Midwest Book Review

Cinda Klickna,

author of Out of the Beaks of Birds: Our Crazy, Pesky…Verbs

Available on Amazon and other online retailers. www.Inspired101.com ISBN 978-0988987913 Purchase Price: $15.95

2023 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite

Children learn language beginning at birth through hearing adults and later through their own reading. It is crucial that parents use correct grammar. Reading Out of the Beaks of Birds: to pre-K children allows them to hear correct verbs. You can check your own verb usage so your conversation reinforces correct verbs. Lastly, this is a great gift for young readers to see correct wording.

L ANGUAGE ARTS & DISCIPLINES | READING SKILLS

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Out of the Beaks of Birds: Our Crazy, Pesky…Verbs

By Cinda Klickna Five varieties of birds chirp and cheep as they teach correct verb usage. Colorful illustrations and actual photos of birds, along with facts and websites, are included. Appropriate for preschool through 5th grade and ESL learners of all ages.

I N S P I R AT I O N

Available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and independent booksellers www.cindaklicknabooks.com

Radical Love

By Satish Kumar To see peace in our lifetimes, we have to practice love.

Kumar’s simple yet radical message focuses on helping us to love ourselves, others, and all beings on planet Earth—even those that seem unlovable.

Radical Love distills Kumar’s experience as a lover, parent, activist, and educator into simple lessons. This book is an exploration of the transformative power of love in all its forms, romantic, love for one’s family and community, to love for the planet and all beings.

Radical Love expands our understanding of love to include a sublime universal state—what a great gift to share with those we love.

ISBN 978-1954437104

LOSS & RECOVERY

This Fall: essays on loss and recovery This Fall is a testimony of personal recovery told through a record of my daily walks in the woods over about a month’s time during the first stunning autumn after my wife Carol’s sudden passing.

Paul Kameen is the author of numerous books of poetry and personal essays--all founded on his daily walks in the woods or by the water--and award-winning scholarly books (along with many scholarly essays) on teaching and poetics. Visit paulkameen.com to read all his work for free.

Available anywhere books are sold. https://www.parallax.org/product/radical-love/ ISBN 978-1952692352

Paperback: $15.95 / Ebook:$12.99

I N S P I R AT I O N A L / M O T I VAT I O N A L

PDF free at http://paulkameen.com/

Your Honor, Your Honor: A Journey Through Grief to Restorative Justice

ISBN 978-0998694962

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

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.

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.

Chasing Ordinary

By Prissy Elrod Chasing Ordinary tells the story of life after loss, of one chapter ending and another beginning, as well as second chances - at love, at finding yourself, and the importance of not closing doors, but having the courage to step through them.

Prissy metaphorically portrays her incredible journey of transformation with semblance to the epic caterpillar to butterfly metamorphosis. “Just when the caterpillar thought the world ended it became a butterfly.”

Available on Amazon and author’s website https://www.prissyelrod.com/

Purchase Price: $19.99

ISBN 978-0991242092

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MEMOIR

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and all online book sellers. www.JudgeLeonia.com ISBN 978-166320184

Purchase Price: $16.99

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MEMOIR

Home Is Within You: A Memoir of Recovery and Redemption

By Nadia Davis MOM. ATTORNEY. ACTIVIST. AUTHOR. KUNDALINI YOGA TEACHER. “Dear Son, I’m going to tell you a story, the most difficult one to share.”

From a young Latina lawyer on a meteoric rise to the depths of darkness including trauma, addiction, and the choking grasp of public shame – this is Nadia Davis’s brutally honest story from brokenness to wholeness, from recovery to redemption. HOME IS WITHIN YOU.

Prissy Elrod,

author of Chasing Ordinary Stepping out of your comfort zone is when you grow, blossom and change. The formula is simple, yet so very hard.

Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and IndieBound.org https://www.nadia-davis.com/

When a brain tumor stole my husband, it also stole my identity.

I began an excavation of self to find my new purpose in life.

With positivity, perseverance, and patience, I penned and published two memoirs with white-knuckled fearlessness.

This led to my second chapter in life and an unexpected, entrepreneurial career.

ISBN Paperback - 978-1-954854-94-9 ISBN eBook - 978-1-95854-95-6 Purchase Price: $18.95 MEMOIR / PHILOSOPHY

Becoming Nobody: A Personal Account of One Man’s Search for Self-Knowledge

“What lies behind us and what lies in front of us pales in comparison to what lies inside us.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

By Rick Branch This book is a candid reflection of my journey of self-discovery from 2008 to 2018. It is based on the correspondence I shared with a friend who was also interested in exploring the nature of identity and reality. Backing up my conclusions with philosophy, psychology, science, and life experiences, I found that acquiring self-knowledge is not a matter of addition, but subtraction; that finding out who we truly are is not about gain, but loss.

Available on Amazon.com

https://www.becomingnobody.net/ 979-8687307949

ebook- $0.99 / Paperback $12.95

MYSTERY

An Elegant Corpse

By Helen A. Harrison When a wealthy artist and collector is found dead in his fabulous East Hampton mansion, the search for his killer untangles a twisted thread of betrayal, jealousy, and revenge.

Book four in the Art of Murder series.

Available on Amazon, or Ingram Wholesale helenharrison.net ISBN 978-1915904256 Kindle: $9.99 / Paperback: 308 pages, $15.99

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Shelly

Frome Author: Shadow of a Gypsy

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helly Frome is the author of Shadow of the Gypsy which was awarded a Distinguished Favorite Cross Genre in the 2023 Independent Press Award. In addition to numerous works of fiction and nonfiction, Shelly is a professor of dramatic arts emeritus at the University of Connecticut, a former professional actor, and has penned more than twenty-five plays.

school boring. Rather than retreat, he created. He started a school newspaper and began creating and acting in plays.

He is inspired by the works of Ernest Hemmingway.

Shelly’s life experiences, travels and people along the way inspired his stories and characters. He entered the mystery genre because he appreciates the element of surprise.

Shadow of the Gypsy is a mystery/ thriller that follows the journey of protagonist Josh as he tries to escape his past and survive the present.

Shelly is currently working on a new book, Fast Times, Big City which was inspired by his time spent in NYC in the 1950’s when he was a struggling actor. It is a place that Shelly says “ no longer exists so I wanted to recreate it”.

A film columnist for Southern Writers Magazine, Shelly is a frequent contributor of articles, writers’ blogs, and websites both in the U.S. and U.K. He covers all facets of acting and creative writing. Shelly’s nonfiction books include The Actors Studio and texts on The Art and Craft of Screenwriting Playwriting: A Complete Guide to Creating Theatre.

Listen to the full interview: https://bit. ly/44FT9kV and visit www.shellyfrome. com to find out more about Shelly, his work, and purchase his books.

Listen to the full interview:

Shellys’ works of fiction include Twilight of the Drifter, Lilac Moon, the Tinseltown Riff, Murder Run, The Secluded Village Murders, Miranda and the D-Day Caper, and Moon Games. Shelly resides in Black Mountain, North Carolina with his dog, Baxter.

https://bit.ly/44FT9kV

After a move to Miami with his family, Shelly found middle

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MYSTERY

Pura Vida

By Jim Utsler Detroit homicide detective Jacob Miller has been accused of many things, but being smart isn’t one of them. The murder of drug dealer Willy is proof enough of that, but not covering it up is even worse. So why would he think that stealing a fellow inmate’s hidden fortune is any smarter, especially when an ex-mafia family head is after the same thing? Jim Utsler crafts a witty, well-written, what-will-happen-next action mystery thriller that will have you turning pages. The story travels between Costa Rica and Detroit and really brings these locations alive.

Tricia Spencer,

author of Forever Dogs: Wit and Wisdom from the Great Canine Beyond - Wagging Tails Telling Tales!

Available on Amazon. gocwpub.com ISBN 978-1956048148

2022 NYC Big Book Award Distinguished Favorite

Purchase Price: $13.99

What’s not to love about an entertaining summer read while digging one’s toes into a sandy beach, rocking a tree-shaded hammock, or just chilling at home where the heart resides?

Reading takes us to places we might never get to visit in person, spawning a smile, a chuckle, or a pounding heart. I love turning a page and discovering a surprise that I didn’t anticipate when I woke up this morning.

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By Tricia Spencer Dogs of yesteryear who talk, write poetry, impart wisdom, tell stories, star in product ads, and share dog-centric moments in history, is what you’ll find in Forever Dogs: Wit and Wisdom from the Great Canine Beyond – Wagging Tails Telling Tales!

With more than 350 antique and vintage dog photos peppering this 304-page rainbow collection of humor and heartstring tugs, Forever Dogs is a delectable dog treat for humans.

I wrote Forever Dogs to honor all dogs and to help soothe the sorrow of losing them. Page after page, the dogs do the talking, and boy, do they have plenty to say. Who knew dogs were so verbose?

The warm, long days of the season are a perfect time for a fun read, perhaps even one that is by, for, and about dogs. After all, those special months of bright, sizzling days are indeed known as the “dog days of summer”.

Retail availability at Amazon and other booksellers, including Lilac Bloom Press.

Wholesale available via Lilac Bloom Press. lilacbloompress.com ISBN 978-0971509818

Purchase Price: $22.95

POETRY

On the Road of Life: A Book of Unforgettable Poems

By Chuck McAteer If you like Frost, Kipling, and Longfellow, you will love these poems. Some are historical, some are inspirational, some are spiritual, and some are philosophical. Most tell a story, but all of them carry a message.

Available on Amazon.

ISBN 979-8549967939

Purchase Price: $11.99

POLITICAL & CURRENT EVENTS

Shaping Public Opinion: How Real Advocacy JournalismTM Should Be Practiced

By Janice S. Ellis, Ph.D. There is a growing, if not urgent, need to understand the difference between fake advocacy journalism being practiced today and Real Advocacy JournalismTM. We all need to recognize which one is at play.

“A well-researched and convincingly argued case.”

—Kirkus Reviews Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Ingram Wholesale janicesellis.com/usariseup-inc ISBN 978-1949642667

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Paperback: $14.99

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M. Timothy

Murray Author: Prelude to War, Thumar Saga 3

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. Timothy Murray is author of Prelude to War, Thumar Saga 3. Prior to becoming a writer, Timothy pursued many different careers. He studied math and science in college and is a veteran of the US Air Force. In addition to writing the Thumar novels Tim has completed 40 short stories in varying genres. He lives in Nevada City, California with his wife, Ronna Lee Joseph and their scrappy cat, Harley, in a house he and his father built.

the world and picture the characters, a critical element in science fiction writing.

To sharpen his writing skills, Tim writes short stories during his spare time. “Many of the world’s greatest science-fiction authors started writing short stories before they penned their first novel,” according to Tim.

Thumar Saga 4 is complete and Saga 5 is in progress. Listen to the full interview: https://bit.ly/44IbNsb and visit Prelude is the third saga in the Thumar series. The first https://thumar1.com/ for more information about Tim and Thumar was somewhat of a love story; the second book his books.

Time Paradox involved time travel, Prelude has a more political angle.

Tim began writing Thumar in 1988. The first draft was completed in 2012 and was subsequently published in 2017. Thumar is a world with no class distinctions and no homelessness. Hard workers can rise up in the ranks in spite of economic background or status.

Listen to the full interview:

Tim believes the reason folks find sci-fi so fascinating is that it is made from people’s daydreams. He recommends that aspiring sci-fi writers should always include elements of humanity.

Also an avid sci-fi reader, his favorite book is Dune because of the intricate and sophisticated level of world building.

The author’s descriptive writing allows you to envision

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POLITICAL & CURRENT EVENTS

RELIGION NONFICTION DISTIN GU ISH ED

By Janice S. Ellis, Ph.D. Thoughtful, factual, timely, and timeless analyses that serve as great motivations to change conditions in our society. Highly recommended for libraries, forums, book clubs, and citizens concerned about contemporary social issues and solutions.

Great editorial reviews.

Abrahamic Monotheism: Judaism, Christianity & Islam Nearly 55% of the World’s Populations (as of 2022)

By Saul Silas Fathi The symbols of the 3 largest Abrahamic religions are: the Jewish Star of David, the Christian cross, and Islamic star and crescent. The Abrahamic religions, also referred to collectively as Abrahamism, are a group of Semitic-originated religious communities of faith that claim descent from the practices of ancient Israelites and the worship of the God of Abraham.

An estimated 3.6 billion people or almost 55% of the world’s population adheres to an Abrahamic religion. Christianity claims 33% of the world’s population, Islam has 21%, and Judaism has 0.2%. This is an incredible 750 page reference resource covering Abrahamism to Zionism in alphabetical order, in easy to understand pithy explanations.

Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Ingram Wholesale janicesellis.com/usariseup-inc ISBN 979-8218044794

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Using My Word Power: Advocating for a More Civilized Society (Book 1 in the Real Advocacy Journalism® Series)

Paperback: $16.99

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble http://saulsilasfathi.com/

POLITICAL FICTION

ISBN 978-1685368036

What Would The Founding Fathers Tell Us Today?

Political Dialogs Between 1789 and 2040

Purchase Price: $25.99

By Werner Neff 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. Neff believes that democratic principles, ethical and selfless leadership in service of the people are the pillars to justice, equality, and prosperity for all.

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Available at Amazon

https://www.wernerneff.com/ 9798887229188

Purchase Price: $9.97

POPULAR SCIENCE

An Incomplete Theory: The Search for Quantum Gravity (a story) D WAR SA ES PR

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By Megan Henry An Incomplete Theory is a scientific history, filled with duels, wars, secret societies, and book burnings. Its characters are fully human, experiencing love, hate, enduring friendships, discovery, and frustrated disappointment. It is a history, but is also a window into the future, concluding with a suggestion that might help resolve one of the most important outstanding problems in theoretical physics: the unification of gravity and quantum theory.

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Available on Barnes & Noble. https://bit.ly/42akrhj ISBN 979-8733153384

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SCIENCE FICTION

RUNNERS

By Justin Ramirez-Hale A high octane, cyberpunk thrill ride that will have you on the edge of your seat!

On planet Nera, a world of towering metropolises, Mr. Zan and crew have trained to be Omegas, the greatest assassins on the planet. However, disillusioned, they went rogue and killed their handler, Nancy. Now, they run guns to survive. After a tragic attack, Zan and crew find themselves on the outs with Dietrich Boateng, one of the most powerful men on the planet.

But when Dietrich suddenly risks everything to warn them of a new, dangerous threat, events are set in motion that threaten to spiral out of their control. To make matters worse, Deputy Marshal Akira Sudo is hot on their trail, after a coverup leads her to believe that there is more to this case than meets the eye.

Lisa Towles,

award-winning author of E&A Investigations Thriller Series Salt Island releases June 7th

Releases June 27th https://www.runnersnovel.com/

Where do I love reading in the summer?

I’m a passionate and constant reader with in-progress books all over my house and yard. When I go into a particular room, I try to stop and read a chapter. I’ve got a kitchen book (for stirring rice at the stove), a book in my office for when I take a break from writing, front porch, back porch, hammock, even one I keep in my car for waiting rooms. One book I’m currently reading: Recursion by Blake Crouch. More books… give me all the books! LOL

Discover the newest voices of SF & Fantasy chosen by some of your favorite authors.

“The flagship of short fiction.”

—Orson Scott Card 9781619867680 • $22.95 US Available in trade paperback, eBook and audiobook wherever fine books are sold.

SPIRITUALITY/RELIGION

SCIENCE FICTION

A Theology for the Rest of Us

Prelude to War, Thumar Saga 3

By Arthur Yavelberg If God exists and is good, why is there evil? Avoiding such questions underlies the spiritual emptiness and anxiety in today’s world. The 2021 “Best Independent Book Award” winner in theology, “A Theology for the Rest of Us” explores how to approach the divine through Eastern and Western religious traditions, as well as science and literature, without dogma, challenging readers to “be you lamps unto yourselves.”

By M. Timothy Murray The Orion Syndicate strikes at the heart of Thumar, on Thumar!

The results are disastrous, launching the inner galaxy into a bloody, drawn-out war. President Remor Andehar is engulfed in a perfect storm of events that threaten to tear Thumar’s once harmonious culture apart. While Ambassador Derak Andehar heals from near-fatal wounds, Remor crisscrosses Thumar’s space colonies to keep his beloved home unified. He must battle bad news, a rogue senator, and a galactic war to save his

home planet’s morale.

Can the War Alliance, Remor and Derak defeat this powerful enemy which has no conscious, practices genocide and slavery, and seeks to rule with total fear?

Available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, MSI Press https://arthuryavelberg.com/ ISBN 978-1950328864

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble https://thumar1.com/ ISBN 978-1669849209

Purchase Price: $11.96

THRILLER

Purchase Price: $23.99

Salt Island

By Lisa Towles An international thriller spanning Southern California to the Caribbean.

Former CIA operative and private investigator Mari Ellwyn investigates the blackmailing of a CEO amid a high-profile IPO deal and a motivated witness determined to expose him for corruption and fraud. Mari’s new partner, Derek Abernathy tries to help uncover the truth. Lured by compassion and ties to their former lives, Ellwyn and Abernathy leverage their collective experience in the biggest challenge of their lives.

SCIENCE FICTION

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The Bush Clinic: Book I of The Tribal Wars

By Stella Atrium The Bush Clinic is a compelling planet colonization novel for every reader and avid science fiction fan. In her clinic, offworlder Dr. Greensboro witnesses the devastating impact of intertribal wars. Uncanny parallels are drawn between Dolvia and our current society: the planet is marred by rapacious corporations, political repression, gender oppression, and cultural differences and conflict. The similarities lead to important and timely lessons about equality that are applicable to our world.

Amazon buy link (pre-order until June 7th): Salt Island (E&A Investigations Thriller Series Book 2) https://a.co/d/iOLaVWy Distributed by Ingram (Returns Accepted) * Available on Amazon and at all retail booksellers http://lisatowles.com/ • Indiesunited.net/salt-island

Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and online bookstores

www.stellaatrium.com

ISBN 978-1958959039

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Purchase Price: $14.99

ISBN 978-1644565889

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Purchase Price: $16.99

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FA N TA S Y / U R B A N FA N TA S Y

This Time

By Azaaa Davis Nadira Holden, Demon Hunter is a fresh urban fantasy series from Azaaa Davis that combines monster-slaying action, family drama, and simmering romance. Resurrected into presentday New York, Nadira Holden is asked to save the world ... again. No one wants to believe that the beautiful creatures who brought magic to mankind could be responsible for the disappearance of so many people. When her father goes missing, Nadira refuses to play nice. Gloves off. She has to do what she does best. Fight.

(Free for 5 days from 5/26/23 to 5/30/23 in honor of the third book in this series releasing on 5/30/23.)

Available on Amazon. https://azaaadavis.com ISBN 978-1733242721 Purchase Price: $3.99 eBook/$14.99 paperback

W O M E N ’ S H E A LT H

NEW Menopausal Years the Wise Woman Way: Alternative Approaches for Women 30 - 90

By Susun S. Weed The best book on menopause. More than a million copies sold — and loved. Everything you need to simply, safely, and successfully deal with: hot flashes, thyroid problems, fibromyalgia, flooding, spotting, water retention, sleeplessness, mood swings, headaches, palpitations, fatigue, and more.

Maintain heart health, prevent and reverse osteoporosis, deal with dry vaginal tissues and incontinence, ease aching joints, and maintain healthy libido.

Ritual interludes interweave a spiritual dimension lacking in other works. Illustrated, resources, index, glossary, recipes.

Available in bookstores, Amazon and website: https://Wisewomanbookshop.com Wholesale distribution: https://www.ashtreepublishing.com ISBN 978-1888123036

Purchase Price: $27.95

Y O U N G A D U LT C O N T E M P O R A R Y

Deadly Setup

By Lynn Slaughter Just when she’s begun her first serious romance, seventeen-yearold Sam’s life implodes when she gets arrested and goes on trial for the murder of her heiress mother’s fiancé.

Just when things are looking especially bleak, Sam uncovers evidence she never expected to find. She faces a tough decision: At what point does the price of loyalty become too high?

Availability through Ingram, Baker and Taylor, and through publisher- Fire and Ice/Melange Books https://lynnslaughter.com ISBN 979-8886530087

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Purchase Price: $14.99

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Michael Dow Author: Nurse Florence Series

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ichael Dow, author of Nurse Florence Children’s to go into STEM/medical professions.

Educational Series, a winner in the 2023 Independent Press Award. There are over 40 The Nurse Florence series now includes coloring books. titles in the series, many of which have won multiple awards. Plans are also in motion for visually impaired editions, translations to Russian, German, and Portuguese, and When he isn’t writing, Michael works as an RN at an a series on mental health and autism. Michael’s goal is to inpatient psychiatric hospital, actually a third career for publish 500 titles in the series. him! He served in the US Air Force for eight years and then spent another eight years as an Army Wounded Warrior Listen to the full interview: https://bit.ly/3pltH3V and visit advocate. Michael received his RN degree in 2020 from the https://nurseflorence.org/ University of Arizona. Book one of Nurse Florence debuted the same week. Michael lives in Arizona with his wife Perla Listen to the full interview: and his three children.

Michael’s inspiration for the series was to teach his children about science during Covid. Michael sees this as a community service project which benefits families and children who are afflicted with the health issues he covers. In addition to educating, the goal of the series is to to encourage children

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SUSPENSE

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Betrayal

By Betsy Ashton When a Navy jet loses power during the flyover at the annual Army-Navy game and crashes in a nearby parking lot, fans are horrified. The government has the tough job of finding out what happened. Was it an accident? Pilot error? Mechanical failure? Or was it a deliberate act of terrorism?

Available on Amazon.

www.betsy-ashton.com ebook:ASIN: B09HLDJJ22 Print: 979-8546033859

www.IndependentPressAward.com

eBook version: $0.99 / Print Version: $10.00

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WHO CAN ENTER? Any publisher or author can enter with a print OR audiobooks within a publication date within the past three years, for example, 2020 - 2023. Qualifying publishers include: • independent publishers • hybrid publishers • self-published authors

• traditional publishers • university presses • association presses

WHEN CAN I ENTER the Childrens Bookworm Award?

We are on a rolling submission, approximately every two and a half months, with two hard deadlines: (1) January 1, 2023 to May 31, 2023, all publication dates within the past three years are accepted.

(2) June 1, 2023 to September 30, 2023, all publication dates within the past three years are accepted.

Books and audiobooks must have a copyright date within the past three years to be considered.

All entries must be postmarked no later than September 30, 2022.

What if I miss the deadline? Enter our spring program IndependentPressAward.com as we take books until December 2023.

ENTRY FEE: $59 per title/per category, plus $50 for any additional category STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS 1. Decide which books with a copyright date within the past three years to enter into this year’s competition.

2. Calculate the total entry fee.

Choose which categories, https://www.ChildrensBookwormAward.com/categories, to enter each book into. You may enter a book into as many categories as you’d like. The fee for the first category is $59. Any additional book categories for that same book is $50 per category.

• SINGLE BOOK, MULTIPLE CATEGORIES: One who enters “Book One” in Children’s Educational and Book Cover Design Childrens category, the entry fee is $59 + $50 = $109.

• MULTIPLE BOOKS: One who enters “Book One” in Children’s Educational and Book Cover Design Childrens category, the entry fee is $59 + $50 = $109, and “Book Two” in Mystery and New Fiction (first-time published), the entry fee is $59 + $50 = $109, so $109 + $109 = $218 in total book entry fees.

3. Download a form from this page, https://www.ChildrensBookwormAward.com/submit-offline OR submit the entry form online on this page, https://www.ChildrensBookwormAward.com/submit-online • Complete form 4. Duplicate each Entry Label if you are entering multiple categories.

• For print books, a copy of the completed Entry Label must be placed inside the front cover of every book submitted. Up to four physical copies for entry into four or more categories.

• Audiobooks, a single copy of the completed Entry Label must be submitted along with either an Audible gift code or Authors’ Direct code.

5. Pay via PayPal button on the website or mail a check, along with your books and printed entry form, and ship to: Childrens Bookworm Award 63 Clinton Road Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 USA

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PUBLISHING SERVICES and PRODUCTS

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INDEPENDENT PRESS AWARD and NYC BIG BOOK AWARD present

IPA BOOT CAMP Join us this summer if you are interested in reaching independent authors!

JULY 2023 (editorial opportunities for early sign-ups)

If you are a Printer, Designer, Editor, Distributor, Marketer, Publicity, Selfpublishing service, or have any product or service that serves authors and publisher, then

ADVERTISE: www.independentpressaward.com/vendoradvertising Topics include: • BOOK PUBLISHING: A to Z • MARKETING & SELLING BOOKS • Getting a book published & making it successful • BEST WAY TO JUMP START YOUR PUBLISHED BOOK • Best Practices

Contact the publisher Ted Olczak at Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com

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Business Brokers & Services

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