Shelf Unbound Holiday Gift Guide 2017

GIFT GUIDE 2017

What to Read Next this Season

SPLIT SECONDS

HAVANA

BY ABE KOGAN

A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY THROUGH THE EVERDAY LIFE IN HAVANA, CUBA. These captured shots within Split Seconds Havana occur smack in the midst of the pre-normalization of Cuban/US relations followed by the signing of the accord between the 2 nations, President Obama’s visit, and Fidel Castro’s death. This collection of black and white photos situates Havana inside of the dying embers of its 57 year relationship with orthodox communism. But now with its feet firmly planted in the pre-post Castro dance of modernity and change, bets are on that Havana is set to change and in a big way. The author is not sure how much change is in the cards. Nor how quickly it will manifest. Havana will reinvent itself regardless of change, rates of change, confluences or conflicts of influences he says. The shots presented here cut through the politics and the gossip of endless predictions spun by the international and local rumor mills. They portray a timeless face of Havana. A captivating and repeating humanity. “Generational Generalities” as he likes to say. Devoid of its powerful tropical flavors via his cancelation of color, landscapes and1seascapes, Havana is stripped bare and reveals its inner city urban pulse. The metronome of its Habaneros.

GIFT GUIDE 2017

staff

Margaret Brown fo u n d e r a n d p u b l i sh e r Anna Nair edito r i n ch i e f Christina Davidson c re a t i ve d i re c tor Ben Minton circ u l a t i on ma n a g e r Patricia McClain c o py e d i to r Marc Schuster c o n t r i b u t i n g e d i tor Barbara Pflaumer so c i a l me d i a d i re c tor

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Sarah Kloth s o c i a l me d i a st ra te g i st Jane Miller ac c o u n t i n g ma n a g e r

For a dve r tising inqu ir ie s: c al l 2 14.704.4182 or e- mail m a rga ret@ s he l fm e di agrou p.c om For editor ial inqu ir ie s: e- mail m a rga ret@ s he l fm e di agrou p.c om or write to Shelf U nbou nd, P O B ox 852321 R ich ard s on, TX 75085

what to read next in independent publishing UNBOUND

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www.chroniclesofthestone.com

N O T E S E H T F O S E L C I N O R H THE C

“Fiona Ingram’s middle-grade series is dead-on: the plot is crisp, the characters are relatable, and they leave the reader wanting more.”

Terry Doherty, CEO, The Reading Tub, Inc. (USA) THE SECRET OF THE SACRED SCARAB BOOK I A 5000-year-old mystery comes to life when a scruffy peddler gives Adam and Justin Sinclair an old Egyptian scarab on their very first day in Egypt. The cousins are plunged into a whirlpool of hazardous and mysterious events when the evil Dr. Khalid kidnaps them. They learn more about the ancient Seven Stones of Power and the mysterious Shemsu-Hor. They must translate the hieroglyphic clues on the underside of the scarab, as well as rescue the missing archaeologist James Kinnaird, and their friend, the Egyptologist Ebrahim Faza, before time runs out!

E 2017 3 G I F T G U I DAT AVAILABLE

THE SEARCH FOR THE STONE OF EXCALIBUR BOOK II Continuing the adventure that began in Egypt a few months prior in The Secret of the Sacred Scarab, cousins Adam and Justin Sinclair are hot on the trail of the second Stone of Power, one of seven ancient stones lost centuries ago. This stone might be embedded in the hilt of a newly discovered sword that archaeologists believe belonged to King Arthur: Excalibur. However, their longstanding enemy, Dr. Khalid, is following them as they travel to Scotland to investigate an old castle.

Little do they know there is another deadly force, the Eaters of Poison, who have their own mission to complete.

Time is running out as the confluence of the planets draws closer. Can Justin and Adam find the second Stone of Power and survive? And why did Aunt Isabel send a girl with them?

THE TEMPLE OF THE CRYSTAL TIMEKEEPER

BOOK III

Continuing the adventure that ended in Britain just a short while ago, cousins Adam and Justin Sinclair, with their friend Kim Maleka, are now hunting for the third Stone of Power, one of seven mysterious stones lost centuries ago. The third stone might be located in an ancient city, hidden in the depths of the Mexican jungle.

When their small plane crashes in the jungle, Adam, Justin, Kim, and James are rescued by an uncontacted tribe. James, who is wounded, must stay behind as the kids, with only a young boy, Tukum, as their guide, make their way through the dense and dangerous jungle to find the city.

River rafting on a crocodile-infested river and evading predators are just part of this hazardous task.

a word from the

publisher

“’T

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

was the night before Christmas, when all through the house …”—Clement Clarke Moore’s “A Visit from St. Nicholas” is one of the first poems we all learn and one that we carry with us through our adulthood with the wonder of small children setting out cookies and milk for Santa on Christmas Eve. Amid all the high-tech gifts we will be giving and receiving this Christmas and Hanukkah, the gift of words—of books both print and digital—has the potential to last a lifetime.

Whether wrapped under the tree or tucked into a stocking, books make a perfect holiday present for everyone on your list. In Shelf Unbound magazine’s annual Holiday Gift Guide, you’ll find just the right book, from mystery to history to children’s books and more.

When we launched Shelf Unbound magazine seven years ago, our mission was to spotlight the best of independently published books that you might not see on the home pages of Amazon or in your local Barnes and Noble. Our Holiday Gift Guide likewise gives you an opportunity to discover new books and authors.

Happy Holidays and Happy Reading from all of us at Shelf Unbound.

Margaret Brown publisher Shelf Unbound magazine Sign up for a free subscription at www.shelfmediagroup.com.

Photograph: Debra Pandak

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“A very enjoyable book with a fast pace and no dull moments.”

—Sefina Hawke, Readers Favorite

“An especially skilled author.”

—Midwest Review of Books

ADAM ALEXANDER The Saviors appeared in the sky on Judgment Day and created the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth—by force. Under the Saviors’ forbidding guidance, no one starves and no one dies of disease and angels keep the peace. But when 16-year old Yasmeen Robertson fishes a drowning boy out of the Chicago River, peace is the last thing she finds. Yaz and the boy have stumbled upon a yatsa drev, a piece of Savior-tech that makes them the subject of unwanted—and deadly—attention. Demons, whose hatred of the Saviors knows no bounds, are determined to have it for themselves. The Saviors, who have dispatched an archangel for the purpose, are determined to have it back. Neither are known for their mercy or understanding. If Yaz and the boy surrender to the archangel, they run the risk of being executed. If they throw their lot in with demons, there’s a good chance of being murdered. On the run, they struggle to unravel the yatsa drev’s mysteries. But Yaz has another problem: whether to trust the boy, whose uncle is the archangel pursuing them.

IDE 2017 5 G I F T G Uby Distributed DartFrog books. Available only at good independent bookstores and www.dartfrogbooks.com/alexander

FROM AUTHOR HERB ROMERO

After hearing family stories handed down over the generations, I decided that once I retired I would conduct a thorough search of my family roots. Our family tree branches out across the world; from the Spanish conquistadors to our Native Americans and the eventful history of our American southwest.

My first book, The Adventurers, chronicles the history of the southwest by exploring where it all began, in the sixteenth century.

This timeline continues to evolve in Always North. A fresh historical perspective paired with little known historical facts is woven seamlessly throughout both books.

AVAILABLE IN E-BOOK AND PRINT

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excerpts

SHELF UNBOUND’S

RECOMMENDED

READING Take a bite from your next favorite book.

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

Blind Spot

by Laura Ellen

www.lauraellenbooks.com Revelation Winter stopped hiding Tricia Farni on Good Friday.

A truck driver, anxious to shave forty minutes off his commute, ventured across the shallow section of the Birch river used as an ice bridge all winter. His truck plunged into the frigid water, and as rescuers worked to save him and his semi, Tricia’s body floated to the surface.

She’d been missing since the incident in the loft six months ago. But honestly, she didn’t come to mind when I heard that a girl’s body had been found. I was that sure she was alive somewhere, making someone else’s life miserable. Maybe she was shacking up with some drug dealer, or hooking her way across the state, or whatever.

But she was definitely alive. on Easter morning, that changed.

The body of seventeen-year-old Tricia Farni was pulled from the Birch River Friday night. A junior

at Chance High School, Tricia disappeared October 6 after leaving a homecoming party at Birch Hill.

Police believe her body has been in the water since the night she disappeared.

I couldn’t wrap my brain around it. Tricia was a lot of things, a drug addict, a bitch, a freak. But dead? No. She was a survivor. Something— the only thing—I admired about her. I stared at my clock radio, disbelieving the news reporter. Ninety percent talk, AM 760 was supposed to provide refuge from my own wrecked life that weekend. I thought all those old songs with their sha-lalalas and da-doo-run-runs couldn’t possibly trigger any painful memories. I guess when a dead girl is found in Birch, Alaska, and you were the last one to see her alive, even AM 760 can’t save you from bad memories.

While the rest of Chance High spent Easter Sunday shopping for bargains on

prom dresses and making meals of pink marshmallow chicks, I lay on my bed, images of Tricia flooding my brain. I tried to cling to the macabre ones—the way I imagined her when she was found: her body stiff and lifeless, her brown cloak spread like wings, her black, kohl-rimmed eyes staring up through the cracks in the ice that had been her coffin all winter. These images made me feel sad and sympathetic, how one should feel about a dead girl.

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IT’S ONE OF THOSE STORIES THAT GRABS HOLD ON PAGE 1 AND TAKES YOU ON A ROLLERCOASTER RIDE ….

ANNE-MARIE REYNOLDS FOR READER’S FAVORITE

This is a giant whopper of a sex thriller with violence and bloodshed on most pages, along with that nymphomanical ex-antiwar activist turned assassin. If you love books like this, it’s the one is for you…..

-David Wilson, VVA Veteran, 3/19/20179 www.MarcLiebman.com GIFT GUIDE 2017

I was in no way prepared for how totally addicting this novel would be, and the sheer magnitude of the world, the characters, the multi plots, the steamy sex, and the life-and-death action... The way Marc Liebman writes is captivating from the beginning and you just want to keep reading and reading and not stop.

-Darlene Cupp, GoodreadsDeeds Publishing

The story begins in the midst of action and the reader can feel the adrenaline. But it’s just the beginning and the whole story is punctuated with intense action and powerful scenes… Forgotten is a masterpiece.

-Christian Sia for Readers’ Favorite-

Forgotten

by Marc Liebman www.marcliebman.com

T

he blacked-out sedan slid to a stop outside the storefront with the four service logos that indicated it was a U.S. Armed Forces Recruiting Station. The car’s passenger guessed the desk light was left on by accident by one of the recruiters when he left for the day.

Despite the all black attire, a passerby would have easily identified the figure as a woman. She had a mason jar in each hand and a brick under her armpit. Each jar had a rag sticking out of the lid and was carefully put down on the cement. The woman stopped about five feet from the large picture window where the light from inside the recruiting station faded out and the shadows began.

She hurled the brick underhand like a softball pitcher. The plate glass window made a satisfying crack before the shattering glass left a gaping hole. With a butane lighter, the woman lit the first mason jar and

lobbed it into the recruiting center. It shattered on one of the steel desks, spreading an exploding mixture of soap and gasoline.

The second jar landed to the left of where the first one hit. By the time the woman got back in the car, the recruiting station was a blazing inferno.

Fifteen minutes later, the stolen Ford Fairlane slid to a stop in a shopping mall parking lot, well away from the stores. In one practiced movement, the bomber pulled a .45 caliber pistol out of a shoulder holster and put it to the temple of the driver.

Brain, blood and bone splattered the driver’s side window.

Satisfied, the bomber (and now the shooter), walked across the lot to another car, a steel gray Volvo 123S with red leather seats, unlocked it, and drove away. …

After her alarm went off at seven, Julia watched a breathless TV commentator’s

top of the hour story on the firebombing of a military recruiting station in Northbrook, Illinois. His report said two Marines sergeants, both Vietnam veterans, were burned to death. ....

Satisfied with her night’s work, Julia Amy Lucas turned off the TV. She just turned twenty-one and this was her first act as a member of the Revolutionary Wing of the Students for A Democratic Society. What surprised her was how much she liked the killing.

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The Other La Bohème

by Yorker Keith

Overture Begin your song, oh Muses.

Let me join the zesty tune.

My heart needs no more sorrow, Neither discord nor despair.

Induce me to embrace love, Peace, and hope in harmony.

Lift, lift me up, oh Muses.

Let us sing a song of joy.

Act I Scene 1

M

uses were singing in glory in the fine October sky—the image Henry saw in the clouds as he strolled along Broadway near 72nd Street, several blocks from the Metropolitan Opera House. He even recognized the Muses’ sweet song. His chest swelled in anticipation as he continued a few blocks to the Café Momus, where his friend Stephanie was working as a waitress. The restaurant attracted a loyal clientele among connoisseurs of opera and classical music, who appreciated the authentic French cuisine at reasonable prices, especially before or

after a performance at one of the many nearby theaters.

Henry paused outside the window and peered in. Since it was not yet five o’clock, patrons occupied fewer than half of the thirty-odd tables.

Stephanie stood before the bar in her black uniform, casually watching the customers. Henry fished a digital pitch-maker from his pocket and found C-sharp.

He cleared his throat and inhaled, assuming the role of Marcello. Then he burst through the door and began singing, extending his hand toward Stephanie.

“O Musette, o gioconda sorridente!” (“Oh Musette, oh radiant smile!”)

Stephanie broke into just such a smile as Henry continued his serenade in his burning tenor voice, praising her charms. His rich tones reverberated in the intimate restaurant. Stephanie immediately replied to his aria in her coloratura mezzosoprano, wagging her right index finger.

“Badate! I miei difetti non

nascondo.” (“Mind you! I don’t hide my defects.”)

She cautioned Marcello that she was a capricious vagrant, living day to day. When she completed her aria, both joined in a duet: Marcello, adoring her, and Musette, warning him. The music entwined to a dramatic climax with a soaring high A, then descended slowly, ending with their simultaneous murmur: “Musette!”…“Badate!”

“Bravo!” Waiters and waitresses shouted their kudos while the patrons applauded.

Henry bowed and Stephanie curtsied. As they rose, they met each other’s eyes and laughed. …

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 11

GIFT GUIDE 2017

Introducing a present-day La Bohème—a must-read novel for all opera lovers.

by Yorker Keith The Other La Bohème is literary fiction that depicts a group of four opera singers, named the Dolci Quattro, who are to perform the nearlyforgotten opera La Bohème by Leoncavallo, also known as “the other La Bohème.” Set in the rich artistic backdrop of New York City, the Dolci Quattro’s lives and loves go through ups and downs in joy and despair, while they give one another much-needed moral support. As the opening night nears, the Dolci Quattro make their utmost efforts to perfect their singing for the opera that will determine their future.

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The Governess

by Victoria Capper www.victoriacapper.com

O

ne night, Bruce walked in to the doorway of the room where Thea was curled up in a chair, quietly reading a book. She looked up.

He didn’t say a word, just grinned at her and crooked his finger.

Thea was puzzled, “What is it?”

He just stood there for a moment just watching her, smiling all the while, then said. “Follow me.”

Thea followed him into his office and there, along the window ledge outside the office was a python. It was a beautiful creature, blue and black and grey diamond pattern about as thick as your wrist and four or five feet long.

Thea didn’t notice or appreciate its beauty. She just stared at it, horrified, frozen on the spot. Then she gasped and turned to Bruce and threw her arms around him and

buried her head into his chest. Bruce instinctively responded by folding his arms around her, cradling her protectively.

How long they stood there wrapped in their embrace neither ever knew—a few moments— all the time in the world. She felt safe and comforted and strangely warm. Bruce, for his part wanted to deepen their engagement but he felt protective and knew he couldn’t take advantage of this wonderful woman who had turned to him for protection and care.

Slowly Thea realized what she had just done and hesitantly turned to move out of his arms and looked at the window again.

Bruce jolted out of his trance thought, Ooooops what had just happened here?

Thea couldn’t believe she was now calmly looking at

the biggest snake she had ever seen. She’d come a long way in learning to live in the bush.

Just the same she didn’t really want it to be around the house where she was living. Bruce couldn’t always be there to take her in his arms. She hoped big pythons had to be moved away for their own safety.

“Yes” Bruce said, “I’ll take her straight down to the wool shed. She’ll be safe from the cats and can eat the mice down there.”

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

The

Series

ROMANCE IN A FASCINATING SETTING

Book 1 OPAL RIDGE

“A modern romance with shades of Pride and Prejudice set in the Australian outback.”

—Jill Allen Forword Clarion Review

Book 2 THE GOVERNESS

“I don’t often review books, because I am not a writer. This story deserves someone to say some thing good about it though. I really loved reading the whole book.”

—Kindle customer

Book 3 COURTING TROUBLE

Coming Soon!

This book is about Tony, the most dashing, colourful, exciting of the three friends.

Look out for it!

WWW.VICTORIACAPPER.COM

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CARRIE MERRILL

A fast-paced, paranormal adventure, Angel Blade is a series that follows Nikka, a young woman who was dying of cancer until a stranger provided a cure in exchange for becoming a demon hunter. As the seraph, Nikka now wields the power to exorcise and destroy demons, but she must face the most powerful forces of Hell that will try to bring about the End of Days.

15

GIFT GUIDE 2017

WHEN 16-YEAR-OLD ANNA HOLLOWAY LEARNS MORE ABOUT HER FATHER'S MURDER, SHE UNCOVERS A MAP TO AN ANCIENT BURIED TREASURE. BUT NOW SHE MUST OUTRUN A FAMOUS OUTLAW WHO WOULD KILL TO GET TO IT FIRST.

THE SECRET OF THE HOOKED X

AVAILABLE AT AMAZON

Who is Titus?

A chicken farmer at 12 years of age, US Army Paratrooper in Japan at 17, All-Scholastic Football player, Football Coach, Biology Teacher, Professional Photographer, Bank Incorporator, Presidential Confidant, Chiropractor and a critic’s quote,

“TITUS OUT GUMPS FORREST!!”

The story of a young mill town sports hero. Grit, focus and an ability to weave through all obstacles dominated his life game on the field .......... and off !!!!!

Ensuing years finds the sports hero hanging up the cleats and one day dining with a US president and going on to professional brilliance and international acclaim. Never far from hometown yet lightyears from his humble beginnings. This engaging tale will inspire others in pursuit of their own distant personal goal posts!!!!

Available at 17

GIFT GUIDE 2017

Titus & Senator Marco Rubio, exchanging books, two great examples of the “American Dream”

Titus The Life Story of Dr. Titus Plomaritis

by Titus Plomaritis http://amzn.to/2qljkNn

RIDE TO THE HOSPITAL (A short story on page 40)

T

his would be the appropriate time to relate my one bad experience related to splitting wood.

It was a hot summer day and I was home alone when I decided to surprise my brothers and split a pile of wood. I was 12 years of age at that time. As I was splitting the wood at a fairly good clip, the axe apparently was getting dull and needed sharpening, but I just ignored the warning and kept chopping away.

This one time the axe got stuck and I was having a difficult time separating it from the block of wood.

I pulled real hard on the long handle—and it released

suddenly. Losing my balance, I fell to the ground and landed on a broken bottle.

Then I noticed blood squirting out of my left upper thigh.

I ran into the house and jumped into the bathtub with a bottle of peroxide and a towel. I kept pouring the peroxide on the wound until the bottle was empty, keeping the towel pressed on the wound. I then took one of my father’s neckties and tied it around my leg, ran down the stairs jumped on my bicycle and rode it to Lowell General Hospital, which was located one and a half miles from our house. I ran into someone’s office, and that someone in turn took me to the emergency room.

After explaining the details

of the accident to the doctor, he cleaned up the messy necktie bandage ensemble, added a few stitches and sent me off.

I don’t remember if the hospital ever sent my father a bill, if so I’m sure it was deducted from my shoe shine account, as was the necktie.

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The Way I See IT

Joseph Chan was born with two rather restrictive birth defects. One of them is a genetic eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa (RP), which is progressive with age. The other is paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD), an involuntary muscular spasm brought on by other sudden movements such as standing up from a sitting position; a condition that actually lessened after age forty.

In The Way I See It, Mr. Chan talks candidly about the challenges of growing up with these two birth defects. Despite facing the fear and frustration of falling behind in school as a little child, and stigma for being different, this is a story of love, faith, and personal triumph over fate. The Way I See It is Joseph Chan’s spiritual journey to discover his life’s purpose and to share the hope and inspiration that he has found with those who might also bene t from it.

JOSEPH K. CHAN

s e . n y

THE WAY I SEE IT

f h a n t y e , l o s

“In a book filled with wisdom, one of the most remarkable lessons is the way in which the author views his physical limitations.”

By Foreword Reviews

19

WWW.JOSEPHKCHAN.COM GIFT GUIDE 2017

The Way I See It A Candid Review of Lessons From Life So Far

by Joseph K. Chan

www.josephkchan.com

I

people to look beyond my obvious handicaps. One person who noticed my real potential was a woman I met at a workplace. We got married and had thirteen wonderful years together.

She gave me understanding, encouragement, and patience.

But our relationship did not last as long as I wanted; her life was cut short by breast cancer. On the surface, this is a sad story, but one big lesson I have learned from this opera is that I am the one who decides whether it is a sad story or not. If I were to let the events in my life make me a sad person, then I would lose the chance to harvest all other fruits that JOSEPH K. CHAN can be realized. My story is one of perseverance, love, and personal triumph over fate. It is from pain and suffering I learned the most valuable lessons. This process not only has led to insights about the physical aspects

of life but also has enticed me to develop my personal views of the spiritual purpose of human life, the question of God, and faith. I have learned that where I stand in these existential questions is the guiding light and sets the course for the remainder of my time on Earth.

BIOGRAPHY/AUTOBIOGRAPHY/MEMOIR

Joseph Chan was born with two rather restrictive birth defects. One of them is a genetic eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa (RP), which is progressive with age. The other is paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD), an involuntary muscular spasm brought on by other sudden movements such as standing up from a sitting position; a condition that actually lessened after age forty. In The Way I See It, Mr. Chan talks candidly about the challenges of growing up with these two birth defects. Despite facing the fear and frustration of falling behind in school as a little child, and stigma for being different, this is a story of love, faith, and personal triumph over fate. The Way I See It is Joseph Chan’s spiritual journey to discover his life’s purpose and to share the hope and inspiration that he has found with those who might also benefit from it.

THE WAY I SEE IT

“In a book filled with wisdom, one of the most remarkable lessons is the way in which the author views his physical limitations.”

By Foreword Reviews

The Way I See IT

“The Way I See It will be appreciated by anyone with either retinitis pigmentosa or paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia and may offer inspiration to readers with other challenges as well.”

By BlueInk Reviews In his memoir, first-time author Chan recounts a life of “perseverance, love and personal triumph over fate.”

By Kirkus Reviews

, being legally blind, is now a volunteer who provides management services to non-profit organizations. He retired from the Association of Bay Area Governments after twenty-six years as CFO. Mr. Chan is a CPA and holds an MBA from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Now widowed, he has a daughter, a son, and three lovely grandchildren.

U.S. $18.95

JOSEPH K. CHAN

was born with two rather restrictive birth defects.

As soon as I was old enough to notice that I could not do some of the things other people could, I started asking why I had been given these obstacles. To have one of these defects was unfortunate; to carry the burden of two seemed very unfair. As a little child, I didn’t have an answer for myself. The family and the school system that I grew up in did not provide adequate support and guidance for children with special needs.

I was only encouraged to “measure up” with my peers.

That put a lot of stress on me. I worked hard to keep up, but no matter what I did, I was always below average in school, and the feeling of inferiority made me socially shy. After I graduated from college and stepped into the workplace, my low self-esteem was a stumbling block. It was difficult to convince

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In a small sleepy town in North Carolina, thirteen year old Jake Winston discovered he carries a unique genetic trait; one that a covert government agency will stop at nothing to obtain.

After the tragic death of his father, a local firefighting hero, Jake’s absent grandfather returns and sends the boy off on a journey into the gated forest at the edge of town, bringing him face-to-face with a family of dragons thought long extinct.

Determined to grasp the power of the blood flowing through Jake’s veins, an agent from the secret ONX facility begins killing every dragon in his path. This forces Jake in the middle of a battle between the government and the dragons of Asheville, where the true potential of his power is revealed.

“Wonderfully descriptive, delightfully quirky.

Reminds me of the movie Super 8!”

BlueInk Review

“Finely wrought, well-crafted with wonderful humor...anyone can get easily wrapped up in Jake’s improbable quest.”

Publishers Daily Reviews

“Inventive and never predictable. I was immersed.”

Paula Stewart sweetsouthernsavings.com

21

GIFT GUIDE 2017

www.dragonsofasheville.com

Available at

Jake & the Dragons of Asheville

by Brian Kacica

www.dragonsofasheville.com

A

s the Krill wound their way through the ancient passages, getting closer to the earth’s surface, the quakes grew in strength. The state-of-the-art engineering that went into building the ONX facility was no match.

The titanium welds were beginning to crack at their weaker points.

The first Krill to break through the lower floor of the building, stopped abruptly when he slammed his head into the ceiling of a holding cage. Three soldiers were positioned outside the massive titanium bars. The men laughed, thinking it was trapped, but their chuckles quickly turned to screams of horror when the sinister looking beast bent back the bars, skewered the men on one talon and barbecued the three to a crisp. ~ Not too far from the ONX, Jake was maneuvering

Mort and the others to a large flat area at the top of a neighboring mountain.

Once he felt safe, he stepped out of the orb and walked over to Mort, who was lying in a patch of tall dry grass overlooking the forest with Asheville in the distance. The old dragon looked weak from battle, his eyes bloodshot and skin horribly scarred. Jake placed his hand on the force field, changing its energy. It wasn’t long before Mort was on his feet and speaking again.

“Jake Winston—” “Mortayvious, King of the Dragons.”

There was a prolonged silence between the two. Jake’s eyes watered out of joy. Mort swung his right wing around him in a protective position.

The winds kicked up, blowing Jake’s hair into his face and forcing a large sneeze from Mort. The two shared a laugh, before Jake returned to the business at hand.

Spread out in the open field, the other dragons were now healed. One after the other, they nodded their heads to the king, then took flight, heading in the direction of their cave. Instinctively they knew it was time to return to a safe haven and wait out the Krill.

“The sepulchral stones,” Mort said, as he handed Jake the luminous green rocks, “You will use them to return the Krill.”

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DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Jake & The Dragons of Asheville

by Brian Kacica www.dragonofasheville.com

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

The Friday Edition

by Betta Ferrendelli www.bettaferrendellibooks.com

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DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Toru: Wayfarer Returns

by Stephanie S. Sorensen

A Japan that might have been… www.stephaniersorensen.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 25

GIFT GUIDE 2017

O’Connell has woven art history, art conservation and mystery into a fascinating multi-layered story.

The novel is like touring the Uffizi with a passionately informed docent who explains the paintings as well as the artists behind them. The plot is contemporary with flashbacks through time to Renaissance Italy and gives a sense of the artists as flesh and blood men. Art history has never been so alive.

Those who enjoy historical fiction and a good mystery with a touch of romance, especially if they are artists or lovers of art, will find much to enjoy in O’Connell’s well-crafted book.This is an enchanting mystery, full of intrigue, romance, and time travel.

Foreward Reviews

Suzanne M. Wolfe, author of The Confessions of X

B

ronx born and bred, Mackenzie Ferrara is both nervous and excited to begin her career as a restorer of fine art at the prestigious Cloisters in New York City. The star of the restoration team is a handsome Italian named Anthony Bataglia, world renowned for his ability to bring pre-Renaissance treasures back to life.

Despite a rocky start, the two form a close working relationship, which Mackenzie hopes will blossom into something more. But the more she works with him the more she notices peculiar patterns and unexplainable similarities in all of his restorations. Is Anthony really who he claims to be? Too many strange coincidences lead Mackenzie and her father, a retired detective, to think otherwise.

Something is clearly not what it seems to be with the dashing Mr. Bataglia, and the resourceful Mackenzie is determined to get to the bottom of it.

What she finds is even more incredible — and shocking — than she could ever imagine.

Weaving its way between the dawn of the Renaissance and modern day New York, The Painter of Time deftly weaves together art, history, romance and the agony of keeping a dark secret hidden.

Contemporary/Historical Suspense

set amid the“Matthew art world modern NYC and and O’Connellof has woven art history,day art conservation mystery into a fascinating multi-layered story.

Reading this novel is like being taken the dawn of theon Renaissance in Italy Bronx born a tour of the Uffizi by a passionately informed docent who introduces us, not only to the paintings, but to the nervous artists who painted them. and bred, Mackenzie Ferrara is both and O’Connell weaves a contemporary plot with flashbacks through time to excited to begin her as ofatherestorer Renaissance Italy career and gives a sense artists as fleshof andfine blood men and not just famous names in catalogues. Art history has never been so alive.” art at the prestigious Cloisters in New York City.

—SUZANNE M. WOLFE, author of The Confessions of X The star of the restoration team is a handsome is an award-winning entrepreneur and and reserved MATTHEW Italian,O’CONNELL Anthony Bataglia. On loan consultant, and holds a Ph.D. in psychology. He splits his time between San Diego and Lake Tahoe with his wife Mari, two dogs and three cats. from the Ufizzi, he is renowned for his ability to bring pre-Renaissance treasures back to MatthewOConnellAuthor.com life. Despite a rocky start, the two form a close Cover design: working relationship, which Mackenzie hopes Kathi Dunn, dunn-design.com will blossom into something more. But as she works with him she begins to notice peculiar patterns and unexplainable similarities in all of his restorations. Something is clearly not what it seems to be with the dashing Mr. Bataglia.

Proof #4 for “The Painter of Time” for Station Square Media Mackenzie—with help from her father, a retired Available in paperback and ebook at 6 x 9” with .614” spine, 4-color process, IngramSpark © Dunn+Associates Design, www.dunn-design.com (OCN104) 12/11/15 detective—is determined to uncover the truth, regardless of the consequences.

FICTION

$14.95 U.S.

ISBN 978-0-9966693-3-7

www.matthewoconnellauthor.com

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DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Desperate Straits

by Janet Squires www.janetsquiresbooks.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 27

GIFT GUIDE 2017

a tale of

intrigue, murder, and life on the frontier...

DESPERATE STRAITS

by JANET SQUIRES

Arizona Territory 1887…

An immigrant Irish girl and a veteran lawman battle for their lives when they stand between one man’s obsession and the Lost Adams gold.

RECENT PRAISE FOR DESPERATE STRAITS:

“If you like westerns filled with terrific character development and gripping action scenes, believable dialogue and touches of humour, then, like me, I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading this book.”

“... A well-developed romance wrapped in an engaging and fast-paced Western, complete with strong protagonists, colorful settings, and superb historical details.”

—Steve M, Western Fiction Review, UK

—Kirkus Reviews, March, 2016.

WWW.JANETSQUIRESBOOKS.COM

Available in print and ebook formats.

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What if one political party decided to change the numbers in an

equally-divided United States Senate?

What if they decided to make that change—not through an election—but

one of the other side’s senators?

Book #5 in the

JEFF TRASK

CRIME DRAMA SERIES

BY MARC RAINER

by eliminating

What if the trial had to be conducted in Washington, D.C.,

the proverbial political swamp?

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

W W W. M A R C R A I N E R . C O M

Could even the best federal prosecutor in the DC U.S. Attorney’s Office, working with the best investigative team, secure a conviction before all the witnesses—and even more victims—

ended up in the morgue?

DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Death Votes Last

by Marc Rainer www.marcrainer.com

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DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

I, Livia, the Counterfeit Criminal

by Mary Mudd www.trafford.com/bookstore Amazon or Barnes & Noble

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

A fictional journey into a future America.

This series examines the human condition by exploring society’s intersecting dichotomies: politics and organized crime, technology and nature, and medicine and mysticism.

“A myriad of possible culprits crops up, from environmental catastrophes to homegrown terrorism to simple negligence. The story highlights issues prevalent in modern society but thankfully never sermonizes.”

—Foreword Review for Manufractured, Book 1

PAULTRINETTI.COM

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DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Jockey Hollow

by Rosalie Lauerman www.rosalielauerman.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 33

GIFT GUIDE 2017

Lamb to the

Slaughter

by Pete Delohery A novel about love and cour age, sin and redemption “Iron” Mike McGann is facing the twilight of his prizefighting career.

Desperate for his future, he has refused to honor his promise to his wife to quit the ring and start a family.

Rufus “Hurricane” Hilliard is the most menacing presence in prizefighting. But behind his menacing ring presence lives a man nobody knows, a complex man who despises his own image.

Rufus “Hurricane” Hilliard vs. “Iron” Mike McGann, just another fight shown on The Continuous Sports Network, but by the time it is over the lives of these and many others will be forever different.

“This heartfelt tale makes a powerful emotional impact.”

—Blue Ink Starred Review Also in Spanish: El Cordero al matadero Available in print and e-book at Amazon, xlibris, and Barnes & Noble.

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Michael Stanley introduces you to

DETECTIVE KUBU “A wonderful, original voice— McCall Smith with a dark edge and even darker underbelly” —Peter James

“Under the African sun, Michael Stanley’s Detective Kubu investigates crimes as dark as the darkest of Nordic Noir.

Call it Sunshine Noir, if you will—a must read” —Yrsa Sigurðardóttir

The latest and 6th book in the series, Dying to Live is a chilling insight into a world of false hope, selfishness, and greed, with tentacles that spread across the globe. Kubu has difficulty focussing on the case when his adopted daughter lands in hospital and he and his wife can’t agree on a way forward. When a suspect offers him a chance to cure his daughter’s illness, Kubu is faced with a terrible choice.

“Best yet. Intriguing plot twists.”

—Publishers Weekly Starred and Boxed Review

“International police procedural with heart and soul.”

—Library Journal Starred Review

“DYING TO LIVE is beautifully constructed and wonderfully told.”

—Bookreporter

Set amidst the dark beauty of modern Botswana, A Death in the Family (Book 5), is a thrilling insight into a world of riots, corruption and greed, as a complex series of murders presents the operaloving, wine connoisseur detective with his most challenging case yet.

WWW.DETECTIVEKUBU.COM

DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Return of the Convict

by William Alan Thomas www.williamalanthomas.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION UNBOUND

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a cowb g n i m o c e B can©t be that hard, oy

can it?

It certainly looks easy to Franklyn “Frank” Ellington Seton IV. Smothered by both his overbearing mother and stuffy Maryland Society, Frank escapes to the vistas of his childhood. He will soon learn, however, that the one thing the movies left out was the smell. And the dirt. And the horses.

As Frank makes his way through mid-twentieth century America, he searches for a place he truly belongs. And if being an actual cowboy is too difficult, why not try Hollywood?

“With a mixture of nostalgia, melancholy, and heaps of humor, The True Life of a Singing Cowboy will lasso you from the first note.”

37

GIFT GUIDE 2017

AVAILABLE AT

A LEGAL THRILLER

BY CHRISTOPHER LEIBIG

“The Verdict is in—

THREE BRUTAL MURDERS ONE MYSTERIOUS JOURNAL

Attorney Christopher Leibig offers a legal thriller for the ages. Realistic yet unpredictable, with a clever metaphysical twist, Almost Mortal is a thrilling roller coaster ride.”

Can Sam solve the “Rosslyn Ripper” case before the killer strikes again?

Robert Dugoni, New York Times and Amazon number one bestselling author of “My Sister’s Grave.”

“A poised protagonist leads this serpentine but engaging legal tale.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“A page-turner that you’ll probably want to read twice.”

– Patricia McCardle, author of Amazon’s awardwinning novel, Farishta.

Camille shares an old journal anonymously mailed to the Church, which she believes may have been authored by the killer/confessor.

The journal purports to tell the life story of a man with mind control and other special powers who claims to be a descendant of the fallen angels cast of out Heaven by God. As he learns more about the murders, the mystery author, and Camille, Sam begins to realize the so called “Rosslyn Ripper” case may have implications beyond his imagination—including his own past.

Christopher Leibig is a novelist and criminal defense lawyer who lives and works in Alexandria, Virginia. His first two published books, Saving Saddam (2008), and Montanamo (2010) were published by Artnik Books in London.

Saving Saddam was released in 2014 in the United States under the title Black Rabbit. Chris also has several published short stories – Secret Admirer (The Cynic on-line magazine 2004) Coldcocked (Skyline magazine FICTION: Thrillers/Legal 2004), Fly (The Cynic on-line magazine 2009), Intervention (Traveller’s Playground Press 2014), and Paradise City (Traveller’s Playground Press 2014). Chris has also published numerous articles on criminal defense and related topics – including in the Huffington Post and The Examiner – and appeared as a legal expert regularly since 2009 in print and television media – including Fox News, CNN, The Washington Post, $15.95 The New York Times, and Sports Illustrated. He and his colleagues regularly lecture at law schools throughout Europe and the Caribbean.

köehlerbooks

TM

köehlerbooks

TM

köehlerbooks

TM

köehlerbooks

TM

“The verdict is in–Attorney Christopher Leibig offers a legal thriller for the ages. Realistic yet unpredictable, with a clever metaphysical twist, Almost Mortal is a thrilling roller coaster ride!”

—Robert Dugoni, #1 Amazon, New York Times and Wall Street Journal Best Selling Author of My Sister’s Grave

christopher Leibig

emerging criminal defense attorney Sam Young has always known he had a gift. Or a curse. He thinks of them as minor psychic abilities. When Sam is hired by an attractive young nun named Camille Paradisi, he agrees to help discover the identity of a serial killer in order to prevent Camille’s pastor from being exposed for not reporting the man after a confession – thereby allowing another murder to occur. While Sam’s psychic abilities increase as he investigates the case and gets closer to Camille, he realizes that the enigmatic nun is not revealing the complete truth.

Camille shares an old journal anonymously mailed to the church, which she believes may have been authored by the killer/ confessor. The journal, which begins in Argentina in the 1940’s, purports to tell the life story of a man with mind control and other special powers who claims to be a descendant of the fallen angels cast out of heaven by God. As Sam learns more about the murders, the journal author, and Camille, he begins to realize the so called “Rosslyn Ripper” case may have ancient implications beyond his imagination.

ALMOST MORTAL

Emerging criminal defense attorney Sam Young has always known he had a gift. Or a curse. He thinks of them as just minor psychic abilities. When Sam is hired by an attractive young nun named Camille Paradisi, he must discover the identity of a serial killer. Otherwise Camille’s Pastor will be exposed for not having turned in the man after a confession—thereby allowing another murder to occur. While Sam’s psychic abilities increase as he investigates the case, he quickly learns that the enigmatic Camille is not revealing the complete truth.

köehlerbooks

TM

Winner 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Award

köehlerbooks 2016 Chanticleer Grand Prize Winner—Fiction: Paranormal TM

köehlerbooks

köehlerbooks

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TM

köehlerbooks

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Christopher Leibig is a novelist and criminal defense lawyer who lives and works in Alexandria, Virginia.

www.chrisleibig.com

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Her love for Montana and her desire to share the story of her unique and wonderful family prompted Mary Ellen Connelly to write a witty and candid memoir.

Window To The Big Sky

vividly depicts a variety of events that shaped Mary’s life and the lives of her children. Set against the sweet and beautiful backdrop of the Big Sky Country, this journey depicts what life is like growing up and living in a place close to one’s heart. Delightful,.....

JUM & MUZ I Forget - A Caregivers View of Alzheimers There are many things we cannot understand; fathomless questions that confront and confuse us, but the most baffling is the human mind. With that thought, I have tried to show my observation of the twenty years dealing with my husbands battle with Alzheimers.

I hope this book will remind us what a kind, sweet, considerate and compassionate person Jim was. Thank you to my family for being the thoughtful, caring people you are. And to Jim’s friends, a special thank you. I could not have survived without.....

WWW.MARYELLENCONNELLYBOOKS.COM

DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Window To The Big Sky

by Mary Ellen Connelly www.maryellenconnellybooks.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION UNBOUND

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DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

The Swamps of Jersey A Frank Nagler Mystery

by Michael Stephen Daigle www.michaelstephendaigle.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION 41

GIFT GUIDE 2017

er:

Bless Me, Mother: “A life-long Catholic, who served in the priesthood for 28 years, I believed I HOW CHURCH LEADERS FAIL WOMEN would learn nothing new about the role of women in the Church. I thought that

L WOMEN

the conflict between the Church’s male hierarchy and women religious was something that began less than fifty years ago…WRONG.

rn in County Cavan, o John Francis Corr ed the local public ms, two teachers and priest. He attended St. ears, followed by six years ge Carlow. He was oremigrated to New Jersey 1960.

June 1988 and Married wn Marriage and Family ers in Change, providing ies from parishes and Catholic high schools. He ves on Cape Cod with his n Fort Meyers Fl.

Bless Me, Mother:

Secondly, I thought that none of the leadership positions in the international HOW CHURCHwere LEADERS FAIL WOMEN church organizations led by a woman…WRONG.”

es…Whatever Happened oesn’t the male hierarchy the Church? He decided w book was born. rr has combined thorough allenging text. It is truly

king a tremendous n his team approach and the Family Life agency in e women who served as

eat heights and assume ore recent times, women s President of the Irish n currency. nderstanding of the role

Bless Me, Mother: HOW CHURCH LEADERS FAIL WOMEN

rs

y

Finbarr M. Corr, Ed.D

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e is

d y d

“Based on his own history as a priest and psychotherapist, Dr. Corr has combined thorough research with scholarship and wit to provide a thoughtful and challenging text. It is truly an inspiring piece of literature.”

FINBARR M. CORR Ed.D was born in County Cavan, Ireland. He attended St. Patrick’s College Cavan for five years, followed by six years at the seminary, St Patrick’s College Carlow. He was ordained a priest in June 1960 and emigrated to New Jersey as a ‘missionary’ priest in August 1960.

He resigned the priesthood in June 1988 and married Laurie Hutton. He initiated his own Marriage and Family counseling program called Partners in Change, providing counseling for couples and families from parishes and student assistance programs for Catholic high schools. He is the author of eight books and lives on Cape Cod, MA with his wife Laurie and spends winters in UFort Meyers Fl. NBOUND

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42

Hollywood made him a blacksmith; Arab chronicles said he was like a king. He served a leper but defied Richard the Lionheart. He was a warrior and a diplomat both: Balian d’Ibelin Balian has walked away a free man after the surrender of Jerusalem, but he is baron of nothing in a kingdom that no longer exists. Haunted by the tens of thousands of Christians enslaved by the Saracens, he is determined to regain what has been lost. The arrival of a crusading army under the legendary Richard the Lionheart offers hope—but also conflict as crusaders and natives clash and French and English quarrel.

“...a literary oeuvre constructed in keeping with the highest academic principles for research and verifiable accuracy.”

REAL CRUSADES HISTORY

“Schrader, a career diplomat with a PhD in history, delivers a meticulous historical drama full of telling details... [T]he story presents both Christian and Muslim points of view, so there is no facile stereotyping of villains....[R]eaders are sure to find the author’s enthusiasm...infectious.”

BLUE INK

“...this is one of the best historical series ever written!”

FEATHERED QUILL

Check out Schrader’s first two award winning books in the series.

43

GIFT GUIDE 2017

DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Envoy of Jerusalem

by Helena P. Schrader www.helenapschrader.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION UNBOUND

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An entrepreneur’s debut memoir takes him from the

wilds of Ethiopia to the neon lights of

Hollywood.

A high-speed, energetic tale of a sometimes-bumpy ride from rags to riches.

[Kirkus Review]

WWW.TARIKUBOGALE.COM WWW.UNSTOPPABLE.CLUB

45

GIFT GUIDE 2017

THE GREATEST SUCCESS STORIES can spring from the humblest of beginnings. Such is the case with Tariku Bogale. From his early days raised in poverty to funding his own education and becoming the CEO of numerous companies, Unstoppable: Challenge Accepted tells Bogale’s story of success, struggle, and determination.

Sprinkled with a dash of international intrigue and high stakes risk, Unstoppable: Challenge Accepted details Bogale’s journey through South Africa to Switzerland, New York, Hollywood, and beyond.

Bogale’s foray into diverse fields of business and his social entrepreneurship will inspire any reader, seeking innovative and fresh ideas while giving back to their community.

This volume gives the reader the entire scope of Kirk’s work.

Fifteen mysteries.

Fifteen steps in Kirk’s search for himself.

Jonas Kirk has solved a lot of murders, gradually integrating himself into the social network of Woodland Park, MN. Fifteen times he has set his knowledge, interest and curiosity up against murder, near death and accidental homicide. He finds answers, but not always justice and when that happens he willingly places his weight upon Mister Scales, balancing the bar with Lady Justice.

Available in softcover and digital formats.

Find both at Amazon.com.

Search for Jonas Kirk Mysteries.

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LINDA COLLISON Fifteen-year-old James McCafferty is an unwilling sailor aboard a traditional Chinese junk operated as adventure-therapy for troubled teens.

Once at sea, James believes the ship is being taken over by the spirits of courtiers who fled the Imperial palace during the Ming Dynasty, more than 600 years ago, and sailing to its doom.

WWW.LINDACOLLISON.COM GIFT GUIDE 2017 47

“A witty YA voyage with plenty of narrative power” —Kirkus Reviews

“An ancient Chinese junk packed with delinquent teens and ghosts alike sets off on a dangerous voyage in this fantastic book” —Susan Waggoner, Foreword Reviews

DISCOVERIES

If you like these five books, you’re sure to like...

Water Ghosts

by Linda Collison www.lindacollison.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION UNBOUND

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

www.codenamearcangelbrucejarvis.com

“Well written, A Police Action is a reminder of what the 1960s were really like, for better or worse.”

“Fluid, beautifully crafted, and emotionally rich. A brilliant intersection of coming-of-age and romance.”

-Foreword Clarion Review-

-Manhattan BookReview-

“An engrossing tale that moves deftly from the battlefield to the heart.”

“A spellbinding story with a powerful setting; the characters are interesting, and the plot has many surprises for readers.”

-Midwest Book Review-

-Reader’s Favorite-

A POLICE ACTION

by Award Winning Author,

A.A. FREDA

A Police Action is a gripping coming-of-age Vietnam War-era romantic novel. It is the story of two lost and confused young adults. It is love at first sight when nineteen-year-old Samantha Powers meets James Coppi at the Country Honky Tonk in Colorado Springs. There are just two problems to a storybook ending for Samantha’s passion. She is pregnant with someone else’s child and James, a young solider, is heading for a war in Vietnam.

Will this instant attraction be enough to form a lasting bond? What will happen after James is deployed? Will he return home safely, and, if so, will it be to Samantha? Follow along as the young lovers mature through their individual hardships and those that they share.

WWW.AAFREDA.COM

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Proven Secrets to Age Well, Look 10 Years Younger & Live a Truly Happy, Healthy, Long Life New York dermatologist and author Dr. Debbie Palmer believes that health and beauty are linked and that a balance of body, mind, and soul is key to a more vibrant, gorgeous you.

In Beyond Beauty, she details exactly how to establish this harmony in modern life—through diet, exercise, sleep, spirituality, and skin strategies. Beauty secrets, whole-body wellness tips, recipes, and inspirational advice are integral throughout this book, which will have you putting into practice strategies from every page.

Available at

D R. DE BB I E M. P AL M E R with Valerie A. Latona

specializes in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and laser surgery. She is a board-certified dermatologist, trained in osteopathic medicine. Dr. Palmer’s mission is to help patients age well in the modern world.

Beyond Beauty

DR. PALMER is the Medical Director and Beyond Beauty Cofounder of Dermatology Associates of and New York, Learn how to turn your beauty regimen skin-care routine inside out forwhere whole-body and wellness in shehealth specializes results that you can see and feel! medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, New York dermatologist and and author Dr. Debbiesurgery.

Palmer believes that laser She health and beauty are linked and that a balance of body, mind, and soul is key to a more vibrant, gorgeous isyou. a board-certified trained in In Beyond Beauty, she detailsdermatologist, exactly how to establish this harmony in modern life—through diet, exercise, sleep, spirituality, and skin strategies. osteopathic medicine.

Dr. Beauty secrets, whole-body wellness tips, recipes, and inspirational advice are integral throughout this book, which will have you putting into pracPalmer’s mission is to help tice strategies from every page. patients age well in the Dr. Palmermodern is the Medical Director and Cofounder of world.

Dermatology Associates of New York, where she

Beyond Beauty Proven Secrets to Age Well, Look 10 Years Younger & Live a Truly Happy, Healthy, Long Life

DR. DEBBIE M. PALMER with Valerie A. Latona

GETBEYONDBEAUTY.COM 51

GIFT GUIDE 2017

30 Minute Body:

Small Investment, Big Results.

Delivers information just as if you were one of Lance McCullough’s personal training clients.

Lance McCullough is a world champion weight lifter and owner of Fitness Results gym. His book 30 Minute Body reveals how only three 30-minute weight training workouts a week, when combined with a sensible diet, allows you to achieve your health and fitness dreams.

30 Minute Body lays it all out— nothing is held back. The author shares all his personal training secrets and the stories of clients he’s helped achieve their ultimate health and fitness dream..

“30-Minute Body changed my body and my life!

It launched me from being a NPC national figure competitor to winning an IFBB Pro Card to becoming an IFBB Professional Figure competitor.

Before the 30-Minute Body, I was stuck in a competitive level and unable to earn my pro card.

In only 6 weeks, with less work and stress, I was a winner at a new competitive level. ”

Lance McCullough’s “Shake Theory” in his new book, “30 Minute Body” has been skyrocketing my strength! As a Pro Figure Competitor and Fitness Model, I’m not an amateur in training.

However, I’ve never had my body go from my off season to my on season build, and even better, so quickly, EVER! Lance says it’s in this “Shake” that you improve, and he’s absolutely right!

—Arnita Champion, IFBB Master Pro Figure Competitor and fitness blogger

—Arian Elizabeth, Published Fitness, Print & Runway Model

www.30minutebody.com

Available at

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Great Holiday Gift Ideas from BestSellerPublications.com

Ex-Cops And Robbers

by Dr. Donald Palmer ISBN: 978-0-9962344-2-9

“Ex-Cops And Robbers” is a hysterically funny crime spoof about Wally Schuster, an honest-to-a-fault police officer, who tries to prevent his cherished wife from leaving him by pulling off a multi-million dollar heist. Dr. Palmer, the author, is a clinical psychologist whose insights into human nature are evident through his colorful cast of memorable characters.

Find these books at the online bookstore at BestSellerPublications.com BestSellerPublications.com is a publishing company looking to discover the next new literary voice. Submit your manuscript free of charge at BestSellerPublications.com for consideration.

53 G I F T G U I D E 2 0 1 7

The World of Comics

by Cory J. Schulman

ISBN: 978-0-9962344-1-2

“The World of Comics” is a coming-of-age novel about a 13-year-old boy whose passion for collecting comic books becomes an obsession that causes his world of fantasy to clash with the real world.

This story gives readers a nostalgic look at the comic book craze of the 1970s.

Resumes That Impress!

by Cory J. Schulman

ISBN: 978-0-9962344-0-5

“Resumes That Impress!” is a ground-breaking, new publication that gives job seekers the competitive edge to land the best jobs, in quicker timeframes, and for much greater salaries.

If you haven’t read any of Jack Cohen’s works you are really missing something...

“Amanuensis”

“Discovering America”

(2009) Autobiographical novel of growing up Jewish in the East End of London and then going to Cambridge University

(2009) Short stories that will surprise you with their range

“Zionism: A Love Story”

“Of Gods and Lemurs”

(2015) The true story of an Anglo-Chilean Christian who became an Israeli through love

(2015) Including “The Tolerant Atheist” and “Discovering Humanity”

Available on

“Trove”

(2009) Long stories, including detective stories in the US and UK

“Life on Planet Alz”

(2017) The reality of coping with a spouse with Alzheimer’s

“Confessions of a Jewish Activist” (2010) Experiences in the Soviet Jewry movement

“Invisible Jews” (2017) Surviving the Holocaust in Poland (with Eddie Bielowski)

and most in Kindle format.

“Antisense”

(2014) A true story of discovery and intrigue in scientific research

“The Reawakening”

(2017) The re-emergence of Jews after 500 years of SpanishPortuguese Catholic persecution UNBOUND

54

CHECK OUT THESE READS from Author James A. Gauthier, J.D.

Emily and Emily 2

Amy’s Kourt

What would you do to bring hope to your dying son or daughter afflicted with leukemia? Would you permit your son or daughter to experience life while facing their expected death?

Amy’s Kourt is an excellent book to teach young people about the court system from understanding the roles of judges and bailiffs to identifying plaintiffs and defendants. Terminology is presented to better understand the role that attorneys and jurors play on the judicial stage. Amy’s Kourt is a fun book to read for all ages.

Emily is a love story about a twelve year old girl that was dying from leukemia when she met Jeremy, a seventeen year old that would become her life anchor. This story is about how Emily decided that she wanted to experience life while facing the uncertainty of death.

Interstitial Beings Have you seen someone that looks like someone you know, but it is not them? How about things you believe you see and feel that lack an explanation? A new race of beings, called Tolasians, have been existing within the interstitial spaces of homes, and throughout our world for more than 500 years.

They have existed in a gas stasis form until now. Meet Jari and Deri, the first Tolasian beings to make physical contact with humans.

Learn about travelers and trappers and the sporting event of boxing that existed on Tolas before the migration to Earth.

Ian and Eli’s birth may be unique, but each is equally gifted with 160+ IQs making them some of the smartest people in the world. Their intellect is tied to their special cognitive abilities of remote viewing, premonitions, clairaudience, clairvoyance, healing and telekinesis.

Unacceptable Expectations

IAN & ELI

Ian and Eli Gehardi are ‘near identical’ boy/girl twins. Only ten known births of such twins has been recorded and no such births in the past one-hundred years.

Rachel Sinclair had one goal of becoming an outstanding teacher. She didn’t believe in limits on what a student could learn and she refused to accept that when she became a teacher that she would become another link in the education chain of life. Rachel became the object of union hatred. The union became her nemesis causing Rachel to lose a leg; get accused of abusing a student; selling drugs; and outright threats. Ultimately Rachel formed her own school system and teaching method. Follow her realistic approach to education that ignores the current system of mediocrity.

Ian and Eli’s lives from birth to present are documented from personal journals and medical records maintained by their parents. Because Ian and Eli are near identical twins, they were subjected to medical testing and psychological evaluations at different stages of development since birth. The tests and outcomes are all outlined in their story and will surprise the readers.

Ian and Eli graduated from college by challenging all their undergraduate premed courses. They graduated with a 4.0 GPA without taking a single college course. They graduated from medical school and began practicing medicine before they were old enough to drive a car.

I am pleased to present Ian and Eli’s story. I am their friend rst and their personal attorney. Their story is fascinating to read. I have changed names, places and other identifying information to secure my clients’ privacy. Read their story and understand why.

James A. Gauthier

Ian and Eli chose to be partners in life. A young woman told the medical center admission’s personnel that she was there to deliver a child. The mother died instantly when anesthesia was administered for a caesarian birth. Learn how Eli bonded with Hayden and learn how Hayden’s heart rhythm is matched identically to Ian and Eli’s hearts. Learn how Eli and Hayden are cognitively connected and can experience each other with skills beyond those of ordinary human development. Learn why Ian and Eli believe Hayden was delivered to them as a gift from God.

Surrealeum Dreams Ian & Eli Surrealeum Dreams is a dreamscape of adventure between the world of being awake and asleep. It is a place where children go in their sleep to find light in the darkness of the night. The existence of being awake or asleep becomes non-distinguishable as Arianne reaches maturity and learns that she will become the Keeper of Surrealeum Dreams and coexist with Michael, her consort.

Ian and Eli Gehardi are ‘near identical’ boy/girl twins. Only ten known births of such twins has been recorded and no such births in the past one-hundred years.

Learn how Eli bonded with a newborn and how the baby’s heart rhythm is matched identically to Ian and Eli’s hearts. Learn how Eli and the baby are cognitively connected and can experience each other with skills beyond those of ordinary humans.

Until Tomorrow Brad promised his wife Kendra that he would love her unconditionally until there are no more tomorrows.

His promise would be tested over and over as newly commissioned FBI Analyst; Kendra Deacon uses her youthful appearance to embed herself undercover into the criminal world of child trafficking and child exploitation.

Follow Agent Deacon as she becomes an exploited child herself. Learn how Agent Deacon single handedly brings down much of the criminal enterprise and why there is so much more to do in our own communities; but at what cost to her marriage and promise of unconditional love until there are no more tomorrows?

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THE LAST TRAIN

“An unrelenting portrayal of a strong female character driven to dark deeds in a foreign land— and the heart-pounding search to find her.”

Publishers Daily Reviews

Tokyo—a great place to live, a frightening place to die Detective Hiroshi Shimizu investigates white collar crime in Tokyo. When an American businessman turns up dead, he’s called out to the site of a grisly murder—or is it just suicide? A slip or jump off the train platform? A security camera video suggests the killer was a woman, but in Japan, that seems unlikely. Hiroshi and ex-sumo wrestler-turned-detective Sakaguchi scour Tokyo’s sacred temples, skyscraper offices and industrial wastelands to find out what was in the past of one Tokyo woman that drove her to murder.

“An absorbing investigation and memorable backdrop put this series launch on the right track.”

Kirkus Reviews “For anyone who loves crime and cop novels, or Japanophiles in general, this is a terrific thriller. Fans of Barry Eisler’s early novels will find the same satisfactions here.”

57

BlueInk Starred Review

GIFT GUIDE 2017

WWW.MICHAELPRONKO.COM

McDowell A Novel An admired and lauded surgeon climbs to the top of his profession.

But his callous and questionably moral determination angers colleagues and friends who vow to destroy him.

“This worthy tale delivers an epic feel and strong characters.”

—Kirkus Reviews Check out other works by William H. Coles here: WWW.STORYINLITERARYFICTION.COM

Erotic, emotionally sensitive and provocative, THE SECRET AND THE BUTTERFLY

will speak to your heart, absorb your soul and cause your thoughts to flutter in wonderment.

The people hurt. They look to President Orangejob to ease their burdens, but entrenched powers oppose him. A renegade general, a devious banker and their fellow conspirators plot to take advantage of the situation.

Sheila, a genius mathematician, accepts two top secret assignments. She must improve the accuracy of America’s missile defenses and also invent a way to defeat drone attacks. She sees a weird phenomenon and wonders if it is the solution key.

DEZ REVIEW FOR THE SECRET AND THE BUTTERFLY This and other reviews on Amazon.com I loved this story! It’s intensely romantic and wildly erotic. The beginning is not about naughty stuff girls do, not at all what author Rosemary sets you up to experience. No, it’s about dark pernicious evil that is bound and determined to suffocate true innocent passionate love. The revelations just keep on coming in this masterful tale. Analogies and metaphors are cleverly used to give your mind front flips and back flips. Plots are layered within plots as you see how the evil master, David, harnesses the talents of a nymphomaniac to do his bidding for profit; then how he cleverly manipulates the three lovers within a love triangle to channel events to his liking.

I felt the frustrations of Barbara while she holds her passions in check. I felt the carnal lusts of Marty while she seduced her lovers and demolished their significant others. My Kindle was on fire with her hot love scenes.

This book totally engrossed me and I found myself thinking about it while I was at work, eager to get back to reading it. I felt a gamut of emotions: frustration, hatred, compassion, apprehension, desire. The way the author develops the characters is masterful. She pulls you in and you get lost in the story and the characters.

There were so many parts that made my heart race wondering how it was all going to turn out. I kept turning the pages, fascinated by the twists and turns of this wonderful story. Totally a 5 star story all the way! I must say I’ve learned more about devious evil behaviors, financial crime methods, seduction and simple wisdom than I ever thought possible. I totally loved it. I recommend it highly.

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

On her journey of discovery she meets the loves of her life and four romance minded bank interns. Joined by a rugged mountain man and a secret keeping woman, her multitalented group seeks to unmask the conspirators.

President Orangejob’s focus is suddenly interrupted. Could the group’s suggestions win him a second term landslide victory?

Will the kiss of the Crimson Mariposa inspire him to act? Can the conspirators be stopped? A million NFL fans are pouring into their stadiums.

This is the story of the assassination whose perpetrators were hidden for 150 years. The meticulous preparations of the conspirators are brought to light by the documents and evidence that was collected at the time, but obscured from public view in the national archives.

“The colored people believe Mr. Lincoln to be the best friend that we had. I would go to the point of my life to find the murderers.” This lament was expressed

by John Morris, an African American worker in Ford’s theater, and it showed the affection that the African American community had for Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Morris and the other African American employees of Ford’s theater were particularly distressed because the had seen the meticulous preparations that the Ford’s and their employees had successfully made to ensure that Lincoln would be murdered and Booth escape. They believed that he was killed because he had worked tirelessly to win their freedom and had been killed because of it. They did their best to catch the murderers but were thwarted by the individuals conducting the search.

Joseph Holt, the Judge Advocate General of the Army,who conducted the investigation would not release any of the information that The African Americans gave him to the press and those who knew too much were arrested and put in prison to prevent any leaking of incriminating evidence, and seven African Americans were arrested.

The effort by the African American community to catch Booth has never been made public before. This book is the only one ever published that gives them credit and names names using actual testimony in the archives. This is a part of history that has been hidden too long.

Available in print at

Available in ebook at

Captain Robert Arnold is a retired Naval Surgeon who was an Instructor in Advanced Trauma Life Support for the Department of Defense. He was a member of Fleet Surgical Team Four as well. He was deployed several times and served all over the world – from the Arctic Circle to the Indian Ocean.

As a civilian, Dr. Arnold practiced General Surgery and was the Assistant Coroner for Jefferson County for five years. He currently lives in Louisville, KY with Betty, his wife of 60 years.

U N B O U N D 60

From Bestselling Author

MICHELE PARIZA WACEK

As a child, Kit’s twin sister Cat disappeared, never to be heard from again.

Until one dark, twisted Halloween night.

But is it really Cat? Or is it someone else playing a sinister and deadly game?

“Well-written and gripping from beginning to end, The Stolen Twin is a must read mystery.”

—US Review of Books

It’s taken six months, but Linda has finally gotten her life back together after her sister, Elizabeth, killed herself. Or has she?

There’s a killer on the loose—a killer who resembles Elizabeth. But, it can’t be her. Could it?

“Best psychological thriller since Gone Girl.”

—Confessions of the Perfect Mom

www.MicheleParizaWacek.com 61

GIFT GUIDE 2017

“Science fiction fans, particularly those who question violence in its many forms, will appreciate Aftermath.”

Foreword Clarion Review

“Author Ferreira put together a story that I found to be creative, entertaining and skillfully inclusive of successful science fiction elements.”

Pacific Book Review

A hypokinetic alien attack tale sets a nonstandard pace for the sci-fi genre.

Kirkus Reviews

NOMADS, PIRATES, AND FROGFACES

“...this story features some of the stylistic flair common to Romance language authors, lending a nice touch to magic realism...”

BlueInk Review

S.L. FERREIRA

It has been two years since the earth was invaded by the aliens that humans refer to as frogfaces. The majority of the human race has either been killed or abducted, and those who remain wander with little direction or hope, forming nomadic groups who stay on the run to keep themselves out of the hands of the invaders.

Albert is a former biology teacher who does his best to keep his friends fed, sheltered, and safe not only from the aliens but also from lawless gangs of nomads who call themselves pirates and who raid other human survivors. When his small band is saved from pirates by another collection of survivors, however, it soon becomes clear that change is in the air. The new group is large, and their leader, Julia, is working to make life better for humanity. But what are they really after—and what is it that the frogfaces ultimately want from earth? Only time will tell whether there is any hope left for humankind.

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A HIGHLY DETAILED STUDY OF ONE OF THE MOST BELOVED SECTIONS OF THE BIBLE

A deeply thoughtful Christian reading of the Song of Solomon that will furnish students and experts alike with plenty of fuel for discussion.

-Kirkus Reviews-

SYPHERBOOKS.COM 63

GIFT GUIDE 2017

Available at

Unlock the mystery surrounding the Song of Solomon. The Bible is a spiritual book that can even be viewed from a historical viewpoint, and it’s full of allegories to help people visualize and understand God’s Word.

Using the keys of understanding found in the Bible, Song of Solomon Revealed sheds light on the often misunderstood book of Song of Solomon, a book of allegories that takes the natural to explain the spiritual; it’s an allegory of Jesus and His bride, and a book of significant spiritual value. Song of Solomon Revealed eloquently explains the spiritual meaning of this book, backed up by scripture, and reveals how the Song of Solomon applies to your life today.

Emerged THE RISE OF A

TRUE WARRIOR

It was the chance of a lifetime—to witness China’s greatest engineering exploit since the Great Wall in person. He would perform research for his dissertation and help his friend’s family move to higher ground.

But Joe’s plans are suddenly altered by a debilitating accident. The unexpected detour brings the civil engineering graduate more than he had planned. While recuperating from his injury in modern-day Arcadia, he is commissioned to carry out a four-hundredyear-old tradition soon to be submerged by the construction of the mega dam. Now equipped with unsurpassable martial mastery, Joe pursues a lost heirloom and a crafty killer.

BY M.H. KERRIGAN

The story is about Digit, the Robot dog, who helps to stop bullying at the Zipper Elementary School. Digit is a special dog because he teaches children not to bully each other in school. Digit carries a red toolbox kit that teaches children about positive behavior, positive role models, positive rules, being kind to one another, being helpful to each other, and teaches children how to deal with problems about bullying in school. Digit teaches the children how to be friendly, to share, to say please and thank you but most of all he teaches them to have positive behavior.

Digit says, “Bullying Hurts! It hurts us all. Stop Bullying now!

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GIFT GUIDE 2017

— Kirkus Reviews

— BlueInk Reviews U.S. $XX.XX

“Genuously hilarious...”

E. Rawlins

“A heartfelt and engaging read”

Learning to Live with Fritz

“A thoroughly readable account of a woman, a dog and a spiritual journey.”

Available at Amazon, Barnes+Noble and IUniverse

— Clarion Reviews

w w w.LearningtoLivewithFritz.com UNBOUND

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BOOK SHELF The Vampire Girl Next Door

by Richard Arbib

M

The Vampire Girl in London

by Richard Arbib

I

ark falls in love with Sylvia, the beautiful, but quirky girl next door, not realizing that she’s a vampire who killed his last neighbor.

When Mark first meets Sylvia, he tells her, “You’re the girl of my dreams!” Sylvia smiles and responds with a warning—“Be careful what you wish for.”

n this sequel to The Vampire Girl Next Door, Mark and Sylvia must deal with terrorists, a CIA agent, a vampire-hunting cult, and a mansion full of Sylvia’s vampire friends— some of whom she can’t really trust. Will Mark and Sylvia’s love be enough to survive it all?

“The Vampire Girl Next Door is a choice pick for one looking for a romance with a supernatural twist, highly recommended.”

—John Burroughs, Midwest Book Review

“The Vampire Girl in London would satisfy supernatural fans and I’m once again entertained

by Arbib’s fascinating couple, Sylvia and Mark.”

—Lit Amri, Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews

www.thevampiregirlnextdoor.com

www.thevampiregirlnextdoor.com

Available at Amazon.com in paperback and Kindle.

Available at Amazon.com in paperback and Kindle.

Paperback and all e-book formats available on author’s website.

Paperback and all e-book formats available on author’s website.

Blood Lake

By R.L. Herron

Toru: Wayfarer Returns

by Stephanie R. Sorensen

A Japan that might have been…

“The paths of sword and steam cross brilliantly.”

—Awesome Indies 5 Stars “Cool alternative-history of yester-century Nippon.”

—Kirkus Reviews “A terrifically vivid historical novel set in an 1852 Japan re-imagined along Steampunk lines.”

—Historical Novel Society FINALIST, Fantasy, 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards

BRONZE MEDAL, Multicultural Fiction, 2016 eLit Book Awards

Honorable Mention, Commercial Fiction, 2017 Eric Hoffer Book Awards

www.stephaniersorensen.com Available through bookstores and at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and iTunes.

A

ward-winning author R.L. Herron has created a spine-tingling modern horror thriller based on the curse of a Cherokee prophet executed for defying the forced migration of the Cherokee people in 1838 known as “The Trail of Tears.”

As John Burnett is about to discover, Tsali’s bitter curse has followed the only sons of the Burnett family for eight generations.

Readers’ Favorite Bronze Medal Winner ● ● Foreword INDIE Book-of-the-Year Finalist ● ● Shelf Unbound Notable 100 for 2016 ● ●

www.ronaldherron.com Available at Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

BOOK SHELF Term Limits

by Paul Holbert

A

new crime fiction perfect for today.

The political atmosphere in America is poisoned with acrimony and partisan bickering. A cry for change echoes from every corner of the land. One person steps forward and begins a lethal campaign to eliminate the sitting members of Congress.

Follow the twists and turns of the case as investigators try to catch him while he imposes his own deadly form of term limits.

www.theliteraryvet.net Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Mistress Suffragette

by Diana Forbes

S

ex and suffrage collide in Mistress Suffragette.

At the Memorial Day Ball during the Panic of 1893, impoverished but feisty Penelope Stanton quickly draws the unwanted advances of a villainous millionaire banker who preys on distressed women. During a glittering age where a woman’s reputation is her most valuable possession, Penelope must decide whether to compromise her principles for love.

www.DianaForbesNovels.com Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, iTunes, and Smashwords.

You Shall Know Our Names

by Ezekiel Nieto Benzion

I Livia, the Counterfeit Criminal

by Mary Mudd

FINALIST National Jewish Book Award, 2014

I Livia, the Counterfeit Criminal proves false the popular notion that Caesar Augustus’ beloved third wife was a conniving dynastic murderess.

A

s my grandfather gave me the 200-year-old journals, he pleaded, “I must know what is hidden here. You read the ancient language. Who were these men? What did they do? Why did the family preserve these books for centuries?” So my journey began. By its end I had discovered my history and the secrets in my name. www.tellingourtales.net Available at Amazon.

A much-needed corrective to a long tradition of Livia-bashing, this highly readable text belongs in the hands of history students and general readers interested in the foundations of our society alike.

—The U.S. Review of Books www.trafford.com/bookstore Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and orders@trafford.com.

ered e. In d to ties. give lost mself your hing.

ou’ ay on re tle ill

ired oyed cian, n St.

T

eaches you how to heal yourself without medicine by changing your attitudes, feelings and beliefs from negative to positive. Helps you discover the specific positive words that will heal your illness. Shows you how to control the pure spirit energy you are made of. Includes specific words to think to change your blood chemistry for health. Helps you get well.

$14.95 ISBN 978-0-9815-0464-3 www.GodSpiritsUnited.com Available at author’s website, Amazon, and Baker & Taylor.

R alph Mosgrove

eries

Miracles Master the Art

by Nancy Lynne Harris, M.A.

Saying Thanks and Beyond

alph r hip ebra. ness

BOOK SHELF

Saying

hanks Tand

Saying Thanks and Beyond

by Ralph Mosgrove

Ralph leads the reader into what is beyond saying “Thank You.” Using anecdotes and Is Saying Thank You illustrations, he opens Enough? up the powerful words, to show gratitude and R alph Mosgrove appreciation. Since our words have the power of life or death, words of encouragement bring satisfaction to both parties.

It goes beyond doing only what is expected.

You are a better person for it.

Beyond

www.mosgroveschoice.com Price, $9.99 ISBN: 978-1-4808-4352-3 Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Google Play.

Fronting Onlys My 2-1/2 Cents Worth of Henry David Thoreau (as adjusted for inflation, taxes, and mishandling fees)

by Tom Beattie Woodchucks, girl scouts, and gangsters?!!!

Transcendentalism with a modern twist.

“Hilariously funny... Highly entertaining and curiously informative... A creative gem.”

—Readers’ Favorite

Available at Amazon.

Paperback $6.73 | Kindle $0.99 Making a Living Making a Life

by Daniel Rose

A

real estate developer and philanthropist presents a masterful debut collection of exceptionally cogent and timely speeches and essays.

“Ever the stylist, his succinct, well-cadenced prose shows an engaged mind, sharply tuned wit, and compassion and intellect that provide a model for civic engagement.”

“A wise, well-honed collection of speeches that address vital issues with fresh, penetrating insight.”

—Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Available at Amazon.

BOOK SHELF My Nazi Nemesis

by Rich DiSilvio

A Blazing Gilded Age

by Rich DiSilvio

RF International Gold Award Winner

“What a Great Book!”

—Jennifer P., HISTORY/A+E

“DiSilvio’s plot is cunning and ingenious…”

—Jack Magnus, Readers’ Favorite “Rich DiSilvio’s novel is an action-packed thriller that is best read with your seat belt buckled. His descriptive style is so vivid that the atrocities in Auschwitz seem to jump out of the novel’s pages.”

—Maria Beltran, Readers’ Favorite www.RichDiSilvio.com Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

DiSilvio’s award-winning novel is a rags to riches saga poised to be an American Classic.

Witness the Wozniak family’s harrowing struggles to achieve the elusive American dream, as a thrilling and chilling image of 19th century America springs to life.

Featuring Teddy Roosevelt, JP Morgan, Mark Twain and many more. www.RichDiSilvio.com Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

A Bitter Wind

by Anita Merrick

Return of the Convict

by William Alan Thomas

W

A space cadet’s coming of age in 2143 in Vancouver, B.C.

hen Alexander ‘Ramses’ Smith is assigned to decipher hieroglyphs at Temple of Khnum—all heka breaks loose. A strange darkness cloaks everything: the temple, spirits and supernatural beings, all seemingly conspiring to reawaken his clairvoyance over logic/scholarship.

Lex goes on an emotional rollercoaster ride where a time entanglement shatters all sense of reality, putting him dangerously susceptible to ancient secrets infused in stone; re-defining the lines between imagination and reality—or losing a battle for sanity.—Read: Kirkus Recommendation (Website) www.anitamerrickauthor.com Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Friesen Press, Google Play, iTunes, Kindle, and Kobo.

Named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books of 2016.

“A crackling, well-told story…”

—Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “...should more than satisfy anyone who enjoys cerebral sci-fi...”

—Blueink review (starred review) “...has the makings of a powerful sci-fi franchise.”

—Foreword Reviews (Clarion review, 5 stars)

www.williamalanthomas.com Available at Amazon and Smashwords.

BOOK SHELF First Responder

by James Summers

C

entrally located between Malibu Creek and Topanga state parks is a lonely stretch of road the locals refer to as the ‘Mulholland Dieway’.

Here first responders frequently rally to save those unfortunate enough to find themselves stranded and in need of assistance. For years Karen thought that section of road was unusually treacherous tonight would be no different. www.peggylanders.com www.firstrespondernovel.com FACEBOOK LINK | TWITTER LINK Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Xlibris.

Gullible’s Travels Raw & Uncut

by J. Lee Webster

“...This author proves racy reading can be done funny, without the S&M, whips and chains.”

(Full page ad in Dec/Jan Shelf Unbound issue) @JLeeWebster

O

llie Morton encounters, a ghost from over a hundred years before, with Ollie's name, and whose past life mirrors Ollie's present. The story shifts to Pittsfield in 1861 where two brothers, Oliver and Ben Morton, are heading off to war, and dealing with their own growing rivalry, played out on the battlefields of the Civil War. As Ollie's own problems with Ben head to their climax, is he doomed to repeat the mistakes of his family's past? Will the ghosts of his family's past lead Ollie to safety, or push him into a fight that echoes down the generations?

Available at Amazon.

A Game Called Dead

by Michael Stephen Daigle

Based on the story of a true 1st Placed USA team that the US media ignored.

“Gullible’s Travels: Raw & Uncut” follows the naughty and humorous antics of two friends on a USA ladies sports team and their 1st Place stretch both domestically and internationally. Go USA! Find out what countries were destroyed in their path, on and off the field.

@JLeeWebsterAuthor

Ghosts of War

by David Kerr Chivers

@ j.leewebster

www.gulliblestravelsraw.com Available at fine bookstores everywhere.

“(I) Loved A GAME CALLED DEAD. I was so enthralled I literally could not stop reading until I finished it.”

I

ronton, N.J., Detective Frank Nagler faces a wise-cracking, spooky killer and Internet terrorist who challenges Nagler to play the so-called Game Called Dead with deadly consequences.

Coming April 2017: The Third Frank Nagler Mystery: THE WEIGHT OF LIVING. “God has given me many tasks. This is the last:” Sister Katherine Marie. www.michaelstephendaigle.com Available at Amazon, Kobo, Nook, and Wal-Mart.

BOOK SHELF Two Tickets to Dubrovnik

by Angus Kennedy

A

ustralian wine writer, Andrew Johnston, goes to Dubrovnik to prepare an article for his editor on the wines and wineries of southern Rhône. He meets up with an old Bordelaise wine making acquaintance, Lucien Delasalles, and his step-sister, Niki Menčetić. He becomes embroiled in the murky affairs of Niki and her family and the local police, which leads to his sad departure from the ancient city. www.anguskennedybooks.com Available at Amazon, Amazon UK, and Barnes & Noble.

To The East

by Angus Kennedy

A

ustralian wine writer, Andrew Johnston, has had to leave Niki Menčetić in Dubrovnik while he returns to Australia to provide support for his brother, Adrian, during the illness of his wife.

Determined to maintain his renewed relationship with Niki Menčetić, he returns to Europe after a new project in the wine producing regions of California, but with calamitous results. www.anguskennedybooks.com Available at Amazon, Amazon UK, and Barnes & Noble.

A View from the Languedoc

by Angus Kennedy

A

ustralian wine writer, Andrew Johnston, is again staying in Europe, this time with his brother, Adrian, for both work and a holiday.

During an extensive new wine project from his publisher, he meets up again with a number of his old acquaintances from both France and Dubrovnik, including Niki Menčetić. Whether he can resolve his difficulties with Niki’s life is uncertain. www.anguskennedybooks.com Available at Amazon, Amazon UK, and Barnes & Noble.

The Final Programme

by Angus Kennedy

I

n this final novel of the Out of Solitude tetralogy, Australian wine writer, Andrew Johnston, is comatose in hospital in Sydney, Australia after the events of Međjugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina. His Croatian lover, Niki Menčetić, believes him gone, the victim of a cruel deception by Andrew’s brother, Adrian, and has returned to Dubrovnik.

Andrew now has to try to re-establish the rest of his life. www.anguskennedybooks.com Available at Amazon, Amazon UK, and Barnes & Noble.

BOOK SHELF Jockey Hollow, Where a Forgotten Army Persevered to Win America’s Freedom

by Rosalie Lauerman Jockey Hollow has all the makings of fiction—treason, mutiny, enemy attacks, extreme weather, supply shortages—but the riveting story is entirely and monumentally true. This book spotlights a little-known Continental Army encampment in a wilderness called Jockey Hollow, near Morristown, New Jersey. Jockey Hollow earned 2016 IPPY and Moonbeam awards for nonfiction.

www.rosalielauerman.com Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Indie bookstores.

Escaping Viet Nam– H’Yoanh’s Story: A Memoir of Determination, Defiance and Deliverance

by Harriet T. Hill and H’Yoanh K. Buonya

“A must read for everyone! The will to live through such atrocities gives new meaning to freedom.”

—K. Gerry, Artist, Editor “Absolutely gripping story of survival! The narrative is compelling...was difficult to put this book down. Highly recommended!”

—The Rev. J. A. Hill, Lima Peru After Saigon falls in 1975, a 16-year-old girl follows other Montagnards into the jungles of the Central Highlands to flee persecution by the North Viet Nam Communist Regime. For the next 11 years, danger, starvation, death and faith are her constant companions.

www.harriethillbooks.com Available at Amazon.

Breathe... Just Steps to Breathtaking Speeches

by Brenda C. Smith 7 Steps to Putting Your Best Voice Forward: Discover the Techniques of Voiceover Speakers, Actors, and Professional Presenters * Featured on ABC, FOX, as LIBRARYBUB’s BEST BOOK (Business) June 2017; Mentioned on FORBES

S

peech and Drama Coach, Brenda C. Smith, unlocks the secret to gaining a powerful voice, your breathing, to help speakers deliver their message loud and clear every time with her expert system. www.brendacsmith.com Available at Amazon and http://bit.ly/2h5K9fL The Friday Edition

by Betta Ferrendelli

A

beautiful, young DA falls from her balcony to her death on Christmas Eve. Police suspect suicide, but the DA’s sister, Samantha Church isn’t buying it. Can she write the biggest story of her career before it’s too late and she’s targeted herself? A compelling and suspenseful read for those who love James Patterson, David Baldacci and Sue Grafton.

“The Friday Edition is a page-turner from start to finish.”

—Readers’ Favorite, 2014 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Winner www.bettaferrendellibooks.com Available at Amazon.

BOOK SHELF Cozy Cat Shorts edited by Patricia Rockwell.

A

n anthology of 25 short stories from the mystery authors at Cozy Cat Press, including Amy Beth Arkawy, Allen B. Boyer, Sally Carpenter, C.F. Carter, Linda Crowder, Glen Ebisch, Bart J. Gilbertson, Helen Grochmal, Lorrie Holmgren, Bret Jones, Mary Koppel, Elizabeth Lanham, Owen Magruder, Jane O’Brien, Joyce Oroz, David Pauwels, Emma Pivato, Joe and Pam Reese, Megan Rivers, Patricia Rockwell, Rita Gard Seedorf, Rae Sanders and Annie Irvin, Margaret Verhoef, and Carmen Will. www.cozycatpress.com Available at Amazon in both print and e-book.

If You Were Me and Lived in...

Colonial America

by Carole P. Roman

J

Love in the Cretaceous

by Howard W. Robertson Dawn McCarra Bass, Seattle Review of Books: “Love in the Cretaceous runs on a mix of narrative energy and metaphysical consideration. What happens to the human heart when it simultaneously faces devastating personal loss and a threat with global implications?” The novel is a love story set a hundred years in the future in a dinosaur park in Oregon. Ted Beebe has lost the love of his life and is suddenly alone in old age.

He keeps alive his wife’s memory while creating a new family to guide the dinosaur park through the challenges of humanity’s uncertain future. www.howardwrobertson.com Available at Amazon and Anaphora Literary Press.

Shopping for the Real You

by Andrea Pflaumer “The chapter on the LBD (little black dress) alone is worth the price!”

oin Carole P. Roman and travel through time to visit the most interesting civilizations throughout history. Learn what Colonial American children did for fun. If You Were Me and Lived in... Colonial America does for history what her other award-winning series did for culture. So come and discover the world through the eyes of a young person just like you.

“It is loaded with information, all clearly explained. Definitely the best book I have read on the subject.”

www.caroleproman.com FACEBOOK LINK | TWITTER LINK Available at Amazon.

www.shoppingfortherealyou.com Available at Amazon and the author’s website.

“I found this to be the best book for advice on color and style, easy to read and understand.”

BOOK SHELF A m e m o i r b y lo r e l e i

ctrine ors?

pelling memoir hines a burning er-day Saints, a wer.

moir of a woman ook that inspires

ndy Lee Eickhoff nd The Renegade

Church. Lorelei htening look into

eifert-Stringham og Ear Publishing

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MURMURING ROCKS PUBLISHING

- Maggie Rayner a Life of Choice

FROM MORMON T0 M ERMAID

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From Mormon to Mermaid

by Lorelei Kay

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rom Mormon to Mermaid is a compelling memoir of FROM MORMON TO a woman’s five-decade search for value and truth. The awardwinning tale shines a burning light into the rarely disclosed corners of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, a religion that keeps women bound to the will of the men who wield all the power.

Mermaid

one woman’s voyage from oppression to freedom Born into a devout Mormon family—and named after a mermaid— a woman searches through tangles of Mormon doctrine to discover the deepest truths lie within.

“While I loved the humor throughout, From Mormon to Mermaid was painful, enraging, and griefproducing to read, yet in the end, redemptive.”

—Maggie Rayner, Author, In Polygamy’s Shadow

Nasty Women’s Almanac— Poetry Edition

by Lorelei Kay

T

his insightful book of feminine poetry celebrates the many-faceted sides of being a woman. These poets blend their poetic voices with the hearts of the five million women from all seven continents around the world who participated in the largest recorded single-day protest in US history—after the presidential inauguration in 2017.

Presented an”Award of Literary Excellence”

by Dog Ear Publishing

“Lorelei Kay has brought some fine ‘Nasty Women’ together to create a poetic masterpiece.

If you believe in equality for all and enjoy a bit of rhythm and rhyme, you’re going to appreciate reading and sharing this book with others.”

—Amazon Customer Review

www.FromMomronToMermaid.com Available at Amazon and other fine bookstores.

NastyWomensAlmanac@gmail.com Available at Amazon and other fine bookstores.

Chasing Mercury

by September Williams

C

hasing Mercury is a lyrical, erotic, embodied prose of resistance and resilience.

A Black Ballerina and a Powwow dancer meet in the Montreal Airport, their love evolving during the transatlantic crossing. Ripped apart by the war against industrial pollution, and the mangling of human life by mercury poisoning, their duty is their downfall—until they rise again.

“Amazon Best Seller” Chasing Mercury a Romance-Suspense-Memoir

www.septemberwilliams.com Available at Amazon, Amazon UK, Amazon India, Barnes & Noble, IBooks, Google Play, and Kobo.

*

Promote your book in Shelf Unbound in our Special Advertising Section for Authors. Each issue of Shelf Unbound is distributed to more than 125,000 people in the U.S. and 62 countries around the globe. Our introductory ad rate for this section is $375/quarter page as seen here.

Contact publisher Margaret Brown to reserve your space.

Margaret@shelfmediagroup.com 214.704.4182.

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The Altar Boy

by Phil Stephens

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lack-robed nuns, powerful priests, bishops, the select fraternity of Altar Boys, and the ancient ceremonies of the Catholic Church. Set in the socially and politically tumultuous period of the 1960s, The Altar Boy is the fictionalized memoir of Carl Sanders, a funny, sensitive kid, who’s caught in the middle when his family is fractured by the intrusions of a priest. We follow Carl’s confusion and pain as he watches the pious façade of the Church fall away to reveal unholy carte blanche, cover-ups, and collusion.

2016 International Publishers Award Winner for Best Contemporary Novel www.independentauthornetwork.com/ phil-stephens.html Available at Amazon and barnesandnoble.com

The Rebel Son

by Guy Quigley

W

hen Jake Fallon, a Vietnam vet embarks on a hunting trip to the politically unstable Rhodesia of the 1970s terrorists shoot down his commercial aircraft. This launches events leading to his friend’s brutal death, the loss of his memory and a most unlikely love affair with a mysterious African girl Sarah Malumbo. Hunted by terrorists and the authorities alike and facing the ever visual prejudice of their cross-culture love affair they are forced to make many choices searching for their lost baby that will determine their undying love, life, death and liberty. www.guyquigley.com Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Ebay, Scribd, Kobo, ABE Books, and Jet.

Scapegoat—A Flight Crew’s Journey from Heroes to Villains to Redemption

by Emilio Corsetti lll

T

he true story of a flight crew wrongly blamed for causing a near-fatal accident and the captain’s decades-long battle to clear his name.

“Fasten your seatbelt for an incredible story of injustice.”

—Karlene Petitt, international airline pilot, safety consultant, and best-selling author www.emiliocorsetti.com www.facebook.com/Scapegoatbook Available everywhere in eBook, print, and audio download Snifter of Death

by Chris Karlsen

T

he summer of 1889 was proving to be a strange one for Detective Rudyard Bloodstone and his partner. They had a series of murder victims killed by arsenic poison with little workable evidence. Plus, the rivalry between he and his detective nemesis at London’s other police department was intensifying. His nemesis also has a scandalous photograph of the woman Rudyard adores. www.chriskarlsen.com Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iBooks, Kobo, and Smashwords.