Ray Bradbury - A Great Inspiration!

By Cindy R. Williams
(Also posted on ANWA Founder and Friends Blog)

One of my favorite authors, Ray Bradbury passed away on June 5, at the transit of Venus. He was 91 years old.

If you are Ray Bradbuy fan, that will make sense to you.


If you don't know his books, you probably know the hit TV series based on his works - Star Trek.

Many I know are "Trekies" including myself.

I don't know too many facts about the man's personal life other than the only person he ever dated became his wife and they had four daughters. He won a Pulitzer. He wrote many, many books and seemed to be nice fellow.

I do know he said some inspiring things about writing.

Here are a few:

“I don’t believe in being serious about anything. I think life is too serious to be taken seriously.”
"If you don't like what your doing, then don't do it."

"My stories run up and bite me on the leg- I respond by writing down everything that goes on during the bite. When I finish, the idea lets go and runs off."

" I spent three days a week for 10 years educating myself in the public library, and it's better than college. People should educate themselves - you can get a compolete ecucations for no money. At the end of 10 years, I had read every book in the library and I'd written a thoughsand stories."

"I don't need an alarm clock. My ideas wake me."

“Just write every day of your life. Read intensely. Then see what happens. Most of my friends who are put on that diet have very pleasant careers.”

"Remember: Plot is more than footprints left in the snow after your characters have run by on their way to incredible destinations."

My favorite line of all time from Star Trek is said with two fingers, pointer and tall man, split in a "V" . . . "Live long and prosper."

Open letter from FIREFLY- A Hot New Musical Group With Incredible Talent

Dear Family and Friends,

We are seriously so excited about the opportunity to write and record with Grammy Award winning producer Chad Carlson and engineer Mills Logan in Nashville this summer!

To fund the project we have launched Kickstarter campaign..we have just 30 days to meet our goal... SO, if you have a moment today please...

Visit Kickstarter (see the link below) and watch our video (not pro, but with clips and pictures from our journey)

• Pre buy your cds and other fun stuff
• Post on Facebook and email your friends--inviting them to light up their summer too with Firefly!!
• Visit the Kickstarter site often to see how close we to reaching our goal!!

We have learned so much over the past 4 years—and feel so incredibly thankful for YOU!! We could not have come this far without your support.

Love and gratitude,

Melanie, McKenzie, and Madelyn
Firefly

Here's the link to the Kickstart project:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2115403863/firefly-debut-album <http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/2115403863/firefly-debut-album>

http://iheartfirefly.com

Firefly
PO Box 9158
Chandler Heights, AZ 85127

Management and Booking
gaylene@iheartfirefly.com
602-570-5727
480-455-7503

Note from Writers Mirror

 

The staff of Writers Mirror has spent time with the three Marchant sisters and their family.  Several hours were spent watching them rehease and create a new song. A word Cindy suggested was actually used in one of their new songs. Not a big deal, but fun anyway. These three sisters are amazing. Their voices blend as only siblings voices can. Their harmonies are tight. They are lovely with gifted voices and incredible talent on many different musical instruments. Follow them to the stars!

Writing Contest - Deadline: Midnight August 15, 2012

Writers Unite to Fight Cancer 1st Annual Charity Writing Contest

                        "Courage to Thrive"

<http://writersunitetofightcancer.com/events/wufc-1st-annual-writing-con\test>

Submission Guidelines:

1.) A Separate Cover Sheet for each entry
should include:
     a) Full Name and Date of Birth
     b) Email address and Phone Number
     c) TITLE (IN ALL CAPS PLEASE)
     d) Indicate the category you are submitting to

Accepting all topics including cancer:
*Women's Fiction/Chic Lit / Romance*General Fiction / Mystery / Westerns / Suspense /
Thriller*Science Fiction / Fantasy / Paranormal *Young
Adult General / Speculative / Dystopian *Non-Fiction /
Inspirational / How to / Editorials *Memoirs / Essays / Biographies
*Poetry / Lyrics*Non-Fiction Children's Picture Books – Middle Grade
*Children's Literature - Fiction (Picture Books - Middle Grade)

2.)Manuscript to be submitted separate as a Word or RTF document either
via e-mail at writersunitetofightcancer@gmail.com
<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ANWABulletin/writersunitetofightcancer@gm\
ail.com>
or
snail-mail to:
Writers Unite to Fight Cancer Charity
Writing Contest
1146 N. Mesa Dr. #102-233
Mesa, AZ 85201.

3.)All contestants must be eighteen (18) years of age.

4.) All Entries must be received by midnight August 15 th, 2012.

5.) Do not mention your name on the manuscript portion. Use double space
formatting with 1 inch margins and number the pages. Place Title on the
left side of header and page # on the right side of every page.

6.) Submit only 4000 words. Entries exceeding this limit will be
disqualified.

7.) Sponsor reserves the right to combine categories due to
insufficient numbers.

8.) Sponsor reserves the right to disqualify any entry with lewd, obscene or other inappropriate content. We will not read / judge erotica or horror.

9.) Pay the $30.00 entry fee on-line using PayPal on the web page OR send in your check with your manuscript
via snail-mail. Returned checks automatically disqualify the entry.ï‚· Winning contestants must be willing to work with WUFC editors to prepare their project for publication in the WUFC Writing Contest Anthology.ï‚· Contestants may submit as many entries in any or all categories.
Each entry is $30.00 which will be donated to the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center.ï‚·

Contact for Questions:
Margaret L. Turley
WUFC Administrator
 480-586-7902 cell /480-773-7087 phone
writersunitetofightcancer@gmail.com
<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ANWABulletin/writersunitetofightcancer@gm\
ail.com>

Writers Unite to Fight Cancer <http://writersunitetofightcancer.com/>

Donate to Cancer Research
<https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=T8\
K58BVWKV7DG>

Twitter: @ WritersCanFight <https://twitter.com/#!/WritersCanFight>

FB page for Writers Unite
<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Writers-Unite-to-Fight-Cancer/10887827253\
2346>

Linked-In Group: Writers Unite
<http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Writers-Unite-Fight-Cancer-3102952?trk=m\
yg_ugrp_ovr>

writersunitetofightcancer@gmail.com
mailto:writersunitetofightcancer@gmail.com

A House Divided Against Itself

Review by Cindy R. Williams

Today's Book Review is A House Divided Against Itself.

Book Blurb: 

It was often said that during the American Civil War, brothers fought against brothers. Mostly they fought on opposite sides but they didn't see each other at the same battle.

This book tells of a rare exception and follows two brothers, one in the 2nd Virginia, Stonewall Brigade, CSA and the other form the 87th Pennsylvania, USA as they fought against each other in two battles in the Shenandoah Valley during1861-1863.

The story is based on over 90 letters from the participants and other members of their regiments, the regimental records, and official records of the conflict

The story is not new, but it has never been told in this manner, starting from their enlistments, and ending back in their home town. It is about Wesley and William Culp, both originally of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, of their friend, Jack Skelly, and of Jack's girlfriend, Mary Virginia Wade.

It is historical fiction, but it is also mostly true.

Praise for A House Divided Against Itself.

“Period historians who have read about the Culp family and have knowledge of some of Bob O’Connor’s characters will find this book intriguing and exciting. O’Connor shows us how a family’s inner struggle resembled our national conflict in a very readable fashion.”
James C. Price, Historian Laureate Town of Shepherdstown, West Virginia

The official author bio Writers Mirror was given follows:

Bob O’Connor, a native of Illinois who now lives near Harpers Ferry, WV, has been a life-long student of both the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln. As a 7^thgrader he attended the Centennial of the Lincoln Douglas debates at Galesburg, Illinois. One year later he portrayed Lincoln in his school play. Today he is the author of six Civil War era books. His subjects are Abraham Lincoln’s bodyguard, John Brown the abolitionist, the U.S. Colored Troops and brothers fighting against brothers.

O’Connor’s books (two non-fiction and four historical fiction) depict real people and real events. His research has uncovered a never before published drawing of the hanging of John Brown and a complete 500 page unpublished manuscript written by Lincoln’s bodyguard. He has made over 500 appearances in 18 states and the District of Columbia in the last six years to talk about his books.

Writers Mirror Review

First off, let me tell you that I am not a Civil War buff. However, people fascinate me, family dynamics are intriguing and this story is chalk full of interesting people making their way in life doing the best that they can. O'Connor does a great job getting into the four main characters heads.  He tells a story of what it was like to live through one of the most difficult times and situations a family could face.  I

It is evident that O'Connor has done his research. This book taught me more about the Civil War than any of my AP Honors American Heritage classes did in three years. O'Connor knows his stuff. He makes history fascinating. Too bad this book isn't recommended reading for students. 

Free Preview available at Amazon                 

A House Divided Against Itself is published by Infinity Publishing.

For more information on Virtual book tours: www.walkerauthortours.com        

The Opium Equation - A Cat Enright Mystery by Lisa Wysocky

Walker Author Tours  (click for more info)

Review by Cindy R. Williams

Before I review The Opium Equation - A Cat Enright Mystery by Lisa Wysocky, let me give you the blurb and some shout outs from the back of the book.

A horse trainer, retired move star, juvenile delinquent, song-writer, eccentric client of a certain age with electric blue hair, and a (possibly) psychic horse lead this Southern equestrian mystery into a fast paced, lightly comic read. Lisa Wysocky is an exciting new voice in mystery fiction.

Praise for The Opium Equation

• "From the first page to the last, The Opium Equation will keep you engaged and wanting more, horse lover or not."     Glenn the Geek, founder, Horse Radio Network.
• "Great edge-of-your-seat story! Who's a friend? Who's and enemy? Only the river knows."

Chuck Dauphin, The Dauphin Files

• "The Opium Equation engaged me at every turn of the page. I highly recommend it as a classic mystery based in a realistic horse world."     Geoff Tucker DVM

• "As usual, Lisa Wysocky writes with skill and nearly unparalleled knowledge of the equines she dearly loves. Here, she kicks it u a notch in a page-turning mystery that keeps you riveted."   Tess Vanattia, publisher, Horse South

Although I'm named after his favorite horse, Cindy, I don't consider myself an equestrian. There was allot of info about horses, most interesting throughout the book. Many chapters end with a horse tip from Cat, the lead character. Example: 

• Cat's Horse Tip #3  "Horses hear and smell things that humans physically can't." 
• Cat's Horse Tip #5  "The safest way to lead a horse through a gate is to push the gate the same direction you are going." 
• Cat's Horse Tip #13  "A bad attitude is the first sign a horse is sore or hurting."

Good common sense right? Pretty much for horse or human, and life is general. Lots of good insight.

The main character, Cat, is a likable single lady making her way as a horse trainer at her own stables she purchased with a small inheritance.  She has a big heart and the local ten year old riff-raff, Bubba, often finds his way into her neck of the woods. When a murder of a famous Hollywood star upsets business or . . . trotting as usual, mystery and intrigue set in. Soon Bubba is missing, presumed either kidnapped or dead and things continue to spiral with many twists and turns.

Cat is one tough lady, yet a marshmallow inside. Her understanding of horses relates to the world around her. My favorite character is Agnes Temple. She is a kook. She thinks that one of her horses is physic, and by the end of the story, I agree.

The Opium Equation was Honored with a Mom's Choice Awards. Because of this, I was a bit surprised by the sprinkling of cuss words. I know tweens and teens hear foul language at school and become accustomed to it. The taking of the Lord's name in vain is uncomfortable for many.

Lisa Wysocky is an award winning author, editor, clinician, riding instructor, and a horsewoman who helps humans grow through horses. She is also a PAT International instructor who trains horses for therapeutic riding and other equine assisted activities and therapies. Lisa is available for book signings, speaking engagements, and equestrian clinics. For more information see www.LisaWysocky.com or contact cooltitles@comcast.net.

Shinar 54 by D. Corey Sanders

by Cindy R. Williams

I met Corey Sanders, the author of Shinar 54, at a book signing in Thatcher, AZ this past Spring.  Sitting across from him, I saw a quiet and thoughtful man with a ready smile. Sanders wears many hats. He serves as a Judge and a Stake President. As I asked him about his book, he became animated as he described the Shinar society. Our visit was fascinating. I expected the book to be full of surprises, much like the man. I was not disapointed. Shinar 54 has many story strings, each intertwining and bringing intrigue to the fabric of the book.

Here's the back of the book blurb:
Jona MaCracken is a broken ex-Marine with PTSD and a host of other personal issues. He stumbles upon a website promising relief from all his ills. The only catch is that he must immigrate to Shinar 54, a Utopian city in the Nevada desert to obtain the wonder cure and to meet Lisa, his enchanting recruiter.

Shinar is the enclosed haven for millions of people who have overcome sickness and pain. The outside world believes Shinar is a powerful and dangerous doomsday cult. Shinar prepares its people for the next life with a singularity of purpose that impoverishes the United States and sets the two nations on a collision course. As the political and economic tensions ratchet up, the world spirals down into an epidemic of fear, bigotry, and propaganda. World war is imminent. Jona and Lisa find themselves in the middle of it.

Marco Frano, Jona's friend and confidant is on his own mission to rescue his younger sister,(Keniesha) from certain death. Can he do it through intrigue and alliances?

Set in the not-too-distant future, Shinar 54 is a story of conflict between good and evil, truth and lies, and the clash of opposing values. Ultimately, it is a tale of renewal, redemption and reconciliation.

How to categorize this book? A book review of Shinar 54 on Smashwords labeled it: mystical, fantasy, apocalypse, cult, dystopia, allegorical, truth, utopia, allegory, apocalyptic, end of the world, good vs evil, escape, conservatism, liberalism, moderate, yin yang, political ideology. Like I said, the book is many things.

Shinar 54 is available at Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com.

The Most Important Catch by Jaclyn M. Hawkes

by Cindy R. Williams

The back blurb:

Run or die!

She knew too much, and she'd seen too much. And the police refused to help. Knowing that she was to be the next scheduled death, Kelly Campbell hid under head to toe black leather and a tinted motorcycle helmet and ran for her life.

When the weather turned cold, she turned south. She ended up in North Carolina, home to one of the most famed and eligible NFL football stars in the whole league; only she didn't know that. She thought he was a businessman. Not being a huge fan, all she knew was that he was incredibly attractive, kind, generous, and that she was safe from him. Or was she?

His brand of fame proved to be all but deadly, but his fame wasn't nearly as lethal as his attractions. He kept her safe and protected. All except for her heart.

If you like a good adventure with high stakes including a clean romance, this is your book.

Ever sense I read "The Pelican Brief" by John Grisham, I have toyed with stories where the hero was innocent, but thought guilty, or maybe the hero knew too much so had no choice but to run. It is a fun challenge to figure out how to be prepared --how to hide a stash of cash, clothes, food, scissors and hair dye, a couple of different cell phones and some wasp spray. Wasp spray? Yes wasp spray. You get it at any hardware store. It shoots about 15 feet and burns the eyes. It's better than pepper spray. 

However, the lead character, Kelly, in THE MOST IMPORTANT CATCH, doesn't doesn't do any preparation. She could have put a few things together when she first suspected there was something fishy going on, but she didn't. Instead, when caught looking at a file with too much damaging information, she knows the jig is up and she only has about two hours to get out of town. She takes nothing with her. She shows moments of brilliance when she stages her own kidnapping, blood and all, then takes off on a motorcycle. Fun twist.

The story is intriguing. It is a "lose sleep" fun read. It also has a fun romance, and stays clean.

Writers Mirror recommends THE MOST IMPORTANT CATCH as a good summer read.

Available on Amazon, Kindle edition. See more about Jaclyn and her books on JaclynMHawkes.com

SURVIVING DENMARK on a bag of peach rings by Tina Scott

by Cindy R. Williams

Get this book free with the coupon Code ZC64M, available until May 28, 2012.

Today's author interview is Tina Scott

WM:  Hi Tina why did you write a travel book?

Tina:  My book has two purposes. I wanted to entertain readers with some of my experiences, and I wanted to share things that I learned about being prepared when traveling. I also rate the places we stayed at and the sites we visited, so I guess that’s three purposes.

WM:  Why should a person buy your book instead of a more popular travel guide?

Tina: Surviving Denmark isn’t intended to replace books like, The Rough Guide to Denmark. I wrote it as a personal accompaniment. The Rough Guide is full of useful information, but there are hundreds of places listed, and all un-objectively. It’s like reading a textbook, and because none of the places are rated, it’s hard for a novice to know which sites to choose for a vacation.

WM:  What if I’m going on vacation somewhere other than Denmark?

Tina:  I believe that many of the travel tips in my book can be used for any vacation. Some, of course are specific to Europe.

WM:  The economy is pretty tight right now. What if readers can’t go on an expensive vacation?

Tina:  Because of the travel experiences and the pictures included, I think readers will enjoy my book even if they aren’t traveling to Denmark or Europe. Plus, I’ve heard that cyber-vacations are becoming more popular these days.

Here’s the link:  Surviving Denmark by Tina Scott

If this doesn't open, here is the long chain to the link:

https://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=Surviving+Denmark+on+a+bag+of+peach+rings

Author:  Tina Scott

Anna del C. Dye's New Book: A Royal Elf of Abalon

A Book Buzzing Babes Pick

Writers Mirror: Hi Anna! Thanks for being in my blog this week.

Anna: It is my pleasure to be here.

Writers Mirror: So, tell us what’s happening with you?
Anna: My life has been quite busy lately. I am getting ready for the “Renaissance Faire & Fantasy Festival” which will take three of my weekends in May. I take my books and have fun being a princess for three weeks. I really love it.

Writers Mirror: That does sound fun. Tell us about your upcoming release.

Anna: After the great success of “The Curse of the Elfs,” I’ll release: “A Royal Elf in Abalon” this May.

Writers Mirror: Where can we find this book?

Anna: Amazon, B&N, and my website will all have the links to buy it.

Writers Mirror: What inspired you to write this book?

Anna: Amathis, the queen in the story. She is a selfish, demanding, and cruel woman. She forced me to write it.

Writers Mirror: What fantasy bug bit you and got you started writing these mystical tales?

Anna: It was a great masterful bug and it bit me hard a few years ago—The name of the bug J. R. R. Tolkien. I love Lord of the Rings and that is my inspiration for my Elf Series.

Writers Mirror: Intriguing, so tell us what is this book about?

Anna: A princess of a mankind kingdom, who is so sheltered by her mother that she makes some unsafe choices growing up. They will change her life and that of her kingdom as she faces challenges that she isn’t prepared for. It also tells of a young Elf who feels an unsafe fascination about the nearby mankind kingdom. Against his elders’ wishes, he ventures there, finding heartaches, betrayal, and murder. 

Writers Mirror: Now I want to read this tale. Tell us what’s the first rule in building a fantasy world?

Anna: To stay true to the rules. If you say beings in that world don’t do something, don’t have them doing it later without explaining what changed so that now they can do what you said they couldn’t.

Writers Mirror: Have you ever wanted to write your book in one direction but your characters wanted to go in another direction. What did you do in such a situation?

Anna: Your characters are the most important parts of your book. So, if they want to go left you go left, even if you wanted to go right. If you don’t, it will be quite hard to make them change and your tale will feel forced. I want my tales to go smoothly, so I don’t fight the characters, they know better than me. 

Writers Mirror: Sometimes people envision an author’s life as being really glamorous. Tell us what’s the most unglamorous thing you’ve done in the past week?

Anna: Change dirty diapers and keep my little Alexis happy. She didn’t feel to good. I love taking care of her though.

Writers Mirror: What's your favorite music?

Anna: Romantic, hands down. The Platters, The Stylistics, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, soft rock, lots of oldies. More recent artists: Il Divo, Julio Iglesias, Celine Dion, etc.

Writers Mirror: Please share a favorite quote(s) with us.

Anna: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I am a big believer of paying it forward.

Writers Mirror: What other fantasy tale are you weaving for us?

Anna: I am ready to finished The Flying Elf, which will be my Elf book for next year.

Writers Mirror: Thanks so much for sharing with us, Anna.

Anna: Thank you for inviting me to come. I had a wonderful time visiting with you.

Writers Mirror: If you’d like to find out more about Anna please visit: http://www.annadelc.com
and to read reviews of Anna’s books visit http://ning.it/dIqC6n

PROMISES by Carolyn Twede Frank

Cindy R. Williams

Here's the back of the book blurb:

Hattie is barely twelve when her pa's "business adventures" move her family to the new town of Tropic, Utah. Her pa views the town as opportunity. Hattie is hopelessly shy and views it wit apprehension. More than anything else, Hattie wants to be like her father---note afraid of meeting new people, talking to strangers, and sanding up for herself. So it is with trepidation that she accepts her pa's challenge and promises to make new friends.

Hattie forms more promises as she struggles to make friends, finding companionship in places she wouldn't have expected and learning that there is a difference between complaining and standing up for one's self.

Promises is a heart-warming story of friendship with a touch of mystery and adventure set in the days before Bryce Canyon became a national park. Drawn from the memoirs of early Utah settlers, it is a realistic glimpse into the past and a delightful story for readers ages eight to eighty.

I wasn't sure if I was going to like the book at first look. It seemed like this little Hattie girl was going to be a little whimp. However, I knew it would be interesting to take a peek into what the Bryce Canyon area was like back in the settlement days so I gave it a go.

I was pleasantly surprised. I really liked Hattie. What a charming character. It was fun to see her grow and learn to speak up for herself. Sometimes I wanted to get after the villain on Hattie's behalf--you know how the mothering instinct thing kicks in when you see someone picked on--but alas, I had to sit back and mind my own business and read the book.

Frank does a nice job in her descriptions of the area. I would love to explore the cave she writes about. If the cave is really there, it sounds like it would be one of those town secrets that only the residents know about.

It was interesting to get a glimpse into the LDS Church at that long ago time. The members had the same problems that are dealt with today, just with a different twist.

Promises is another fun summer read.

PROMISES is pulished by August Corp Press, Kaysville Utah.
Visit Frank at  http:www.carolyntwedefrank.com

MILLION DOLLAR DIVA by Tristi Pinkston, Brett Kitchen and Ethan Kap

by Cindy R. Williams

MILLION DOLLAR DIVA, The Smart Woman's Guided to Getting Rich Safely is a finance book for women (now don't roll your eyes.) It's not dull, dry or boring. It's a book that will help EVERYONE get on top of their finances, written specifically for women, and with the friendly voice of Tristi Pinkston. Reading this book is like sitting on a cushy couch visiting with a good friend you can trust to give you good advice. If you have ever had the pleasure of meeting Tristi, you know she is an incredibly warm and personable lady. Her style is the same.  

Before I share more about the book with you, I want to let you know about the incredible offer. If you go to www.milliondollardiva.com, you can get a free copy of the book for only $5.95 shipping and handling. This offer only goes until June 15th. (The book is regularly $14.95, so don't miss out on the free book offer before June 15th.)

This book is unique because you can also follow Tristi's continuing success on the blog portion of the site listed above.

Now a bit more info. When asked to blog about the new book MILLION DOLLAR DIVA, I jumped at the chance. Who doesn't want to get a handle on their finances?

The book contains:

• A 5-step, simple, safe, and predictable process to change living paycheck-to-paycheck to enjoying wealth and security.
• How to give yourself a $400 per month raise without asking the boss or working a minute of overtime.
• "Spend Like  a Diva." How to have anything your want--nice vacations, eating out, trips to the mall. It's all part of the plan.
• The secret formula of how to completely eliminate your debt in 1/3 the time and save tens of thousands on interest costs in the process. You'll see why all the TV gurus are wrong!
• 5 Million-Dollar_Diva investing strategies that will grow your money safely and predictably every year, without the guesswork.
• Plus! Discover the key to stop fighting and quarreling with your spouse about money forever!

 Here is how the book came about according to Tristi Pinkston.

Last fall, I was contacted by two financial gurus, Brett Kitchen and Ethan Kap, who asked me if I would co-author a book on finances for women with them. (I’m the token woman.) J As we laid out the ideas for the book, we hit upon sheer brilliance (at least I think so, but it was my idea, so I’m entitled to be biased). Rather than just writing a book about finances, these guys sat down with me and worked me through their system, helped me get started on my path to getting out of debt, and then we wrote down everything we did and made it into a book. 

The authors also set up a where Tristi tracks her progress as she pays down her bills. As Tristi says, "It’s totally real, I’m making these changes every day, and it’s been a lot simpler than I thought it would be. It’s my hope that as women everywhere see that I did it, they’ll be inspired to take charge of their own finances as well."

Again, go to  www.milliondollardiva.com to watch Tristi as she makes the journey to become debt free.

The final part of the blurb sums it up well.

Imagine yourself living debt-free and building a million-dollar retirement safely and securely, so you can have total confidence in yourself and your future.
YOU CAN BE A MILLION DOLLAR DIVA!

MILLION DOLLAR DIVA receives 10 GOLD STARS from Writers Mirror for being a book that is real, and can change lives.

I am using it now myself. I'll let you know how it goes. I'm expecting big things from this unusual book.

DANGEROUS FAVOR ~ by Joyce DiPastena

DANGEROUS FAVOR  by Joyce DiPastena, the Queen of sweet medieval romance!

Mathilde needs a champion.  Her father has been accused of stealing from the king, an allegation that has reduced her family to poverty. She has one chance to find and marry a man who can help her prove her father's innocence. Lord Therri, heir to a rich barony, has the wealth and connections Mathilde needs to delve into the mysteries of her father's past. Furthermore, Therri embodies all her romantic dreams.

Etinne, the younger son of a disgraced family, has neither wealth nor connections, but is smitten with Mathilde at a glance. She finds the knight intriguing, but believes he is only out to seduce her. While she seeks for a way to win Therri's attention, Etienne tricks her into granting him her favor --an embroidered white ribbon--for a tournament, setting in motion a dangerous chain reaction of events. Can Etienne save Mathilde from a nightmare from her past and prove himself the true hero of her dreams?

Writers Mirror gives DANGEROUS FAVOR 10 stars! 

Joyce graduated from Arizona State University with a degree specializing in medieval history. She writes as if she were living amongst her characters and will transport readers there with her.

Joyce loves cats. One of her little purr-babies is named Glinka Rimsky-Korsakov. There must be quite a story in that.

If you have read Joyce DiPastena's LOYALTY'S WEB and ILLUMINATIONS OF THE HEART, you know you are in for a great read.  Joyce is a master of medieval history, and weaves a delectable sweet romance around a world of intrigue.

(Note; if you haven't read Joyce's other two books, get all three and have a lovely summer spent in medieval times around knights, knaves, castles, beautiful maidens, jewels, crowns and passionate yet clean love stories.)


For you medieval history buffs, you can follow along as Joyce researches her novels at www.medivalresearch.blogspot.com

DANGEROUS FAVOR is available at:
 Desert Book
www.deseretbook.com
www.amazon.com

Readers may contact Joyce at jdipastena@yahoo.com.
You may also visit Joyce at www.joyce-dipastena.com
For the latest news about Joyce and her books go to:
www.jdp-news.blogpsot.com

Here's hoping that Joyce is busy with book four!

IDENTITY ~ by Betsy Love

Betsy Love

 (How can you not love Betsy's enthusiasm for life . . . or is it the snow?")

Betsy Love recently published her first book, IDENTITY. Her second book will be out any moment now. Good on ya, Betsy!

Here is the blurb for IDENTITY.

While vacationing in Mexico, two similar-looking young women find themselves caught in a chain reaction of mistaken identities. Amelia is a wealthy heiress and business owner, and Savannah is a sweet Mormon girl deciding whether or not to serve a mission. When they end up on the same flight to Phoenix, Savannah and Amelia unravel the sequence of events that wreaked havoc on their trips, and they make plans to resolve the subsequent misunderstandings. But their flight is cut short when the plane crases, killing one of the young women and plunging the other into a world of intrigue and deceit where identity means everything.

What a tasty premise. You have two girls who look so much alike, they are mistaken for each other. Who didn't think about being a twin and switching places? How many fun tricks you could play? Then you have one who is wealthy, living a glamorous life, and the other one a Mormon, living a wonderful life full of love and family and all things truley important here on this earth. Add to it that you don't know which one survives the plane crash, plus, there is something dangerous going on and the young lady who survived could be in big trouble. Really, what's not to like about this story?

Going in with high expecations, I was not disapointed. IDENTITY delivers. 

Writers Mirror gives IDENTITY 10 Stars.

Published by Walnut Springs, IDENTITY is available at Deseret Book and other fine stores.

You can visit Betsy Love at www.sweetbetsylove.blogspot.com

THERESA SNEED - NO ANGELS

Review by Cindy R. Williams

NO ANGEL by Theresa Sneed is published by Walnut Springs

 http://walnutspringspress.blogspot.com.

The back of the book blurb states:

An angel with an attitude

Jonathan Stewart is not at all happy about having to return to earth as a guardian angel, but it's required of all post-mortal spirits to fulfill at least one angel guardianship. Fortunately, on the Guardians Unlimited application, he had the good sense to request a client with early-marked-death status, so he believes that while his stay on earth will be most unpleasant, at least it will be short. What he doesn't know is that a spirit with EMD status can choose his or her time of death! Jonathan's client, Celeste Knight, has a mind of her own and refused death at every turn, leaving him stuck as her guardian angel--in a place he only wanted to forget.



NO ANGEL gives a interesting look into what life after death could be. As you follow Jonathan on his journey through after-life, you cheer for him, you cringe for him, you shake your head at his stubbornness, yet realize his journey takes you on a ride of discovering what life is all about.

I must admit my favorite character was Grace, a guardian angel who spends much of her time schooling Jonathan since he refused to read his manual, which when opened has a screen and a tiny keyboard. Grace has an iron backbone. She doesn't put up with any sass from anyone, yet she's loving and kind and has the patience of Job. I found I wanted to give Jonathan a little thump on  his head more than once, yet Grace continued to work with him.

The demons called sheydim in the book are a sobering concept. They follow mortals along with the guardian angels. Sheydim's are fallen angels, allowed to tempt mortals. They can only get close if the mortal is by permission from the mortal. Permission which is mostly given  carelessly through a person's actions. NO ANGEL paints a clear picture of evil spirits not allowed to mortal bodies and in their unhappy state strive to destroy mortals. 

NO ANGEL is a good read. It leads to many thought provoking scenarios and shows that the veil between earth life and post life is thin indeed.

NO ANGEL receives TEN STARS for ingenuity and vision. Well done Theresa Sneed.

Theresa Sneed now adds published author to her many hats. She lives in Arizona, is a member of American Night Writers Association, ANWA, the mother of six and grandmother of four.

NO ANGEL is the first book in a four book series. Book two, FROM HEAVEN TO EARTH, is scheduled for release in April, 2012.



NO ANGEL and FROM HEAVEN TO EARTH are available at Deseret Book, Latter Day Cottage, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com. NO ANGEL  is also available in paperback and Kindle.

To learn more about Theresa Sneed check out her website at www.theresasneed.com

Retirement Quest -- Make Better Decisions by John Hauserman, CFP

Review by Cindy R. Williams

http://www.retirementquest.com

This is a new genre of book for me to review --one that will help you create a bright future for you and your loved ones.

Retirement Quest is a book that will help you prepare for retirement. The sooner you read it, the better. It will help you find a way to make your future more secure, show you how to get started, avoid pitfalls, side step tax law quagmires and assist you in creating a plan to reach your final desitnation of rest and relaxation with peace of mind.

This plan will teach you how to avoid costly mistakes and help you create a secure future no matter where you are finacially today.

Please take a moment to read this blurb.

The state of today’s economy is insecure, causing concern in many people and fear in many others.  It used to be that we relied on our retirement income to see us through our golden years, but we now have to face the reality that we must take action to ensure our well-being in the future.  How do we go about this?  What steps do we take, where do we go, how do we know we’re doing it right?

Financial advisor John Hauserman, CFP^®, has created a no-cost website as a tool for you to use on your financial journey.  This site features the amazing Planning Map, designed to help you think like a financial planner.  You can begin by setting up an account at no charge, complete with your zip code which will enable you to save your progress, but your information will never be sold or given away to any outside party. Or, if you prefer, simply skip registration with a single click. As you chart out your financial situation, you will never be asked for account numbers or personal information.

As you go through and create your personal profile, you’ll feel in control of your future—a sense of freedom and independence that perhaps has been missing since the economy went downhill. You will get the tools you need to help:
1.       View the financial planning process from the eyes of a CFP^®   professional in a user-friendly format that most find easy to understand
2.       Get the whole story on various investment products, not just “the good stuff” that financial (snake oil?) sales folks talk about
3.       Find useful links to government and other helpful websites
4.       Identify if a financial advisor has been thorough in their duties
5.       Identify and avoid fraudulent advisors
6.       Make better financial decisions

You’re invited to stop by the RetirementQuest® website and see for yourself if this is a tool you can use.  Again, it’s no cost, and all you have to lose is your financial stress. Those who take action now will find themselves in a much better place later—why delay your future security? Plan ahead and be prepared.  http://retirementquest.com

John Hausermanm, CFP

cheif executive officer of Retirment Journey, LLC.

Securities and advisory services are offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, member FINRA/SIPC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

http://www.retirementquest.com

Bitter Blessings - a novel - Christine Mehring

Review by Cindy R. Williams

The clock in the kitchen pounded out the seconds, and the neighbor's wind chimes clanged their chaotic melody until I thought my brain would explode, and then, finally, Gram said, "There was an accident on the highway this afternoon. Your mother was in it."

And the world collapsed around me . . . again.

After the death of her mother, everything seems to spin out of control for Megan. taking care of her grandmother--who refuses to received help from anyone--and her two younger sisters, Megan must depend on her best friend Adam to get through these hard times. But when she discovers an old family secret, Megan must choose between trusting her family and following what her heart tells her to be true. Thought-provoking and heartfelt, this debut novel shows that the power of love brings the best blessing even during the bitterest trials.

This back of the book sure caught my attention.  I finished it in a few hours. My heart went out to most of the characters. Mahring is able to paint a complete picture of a troubled family. She gives the reader a sense of the raw emotions a teen feels as she faces life. Her writing is brave in that she doesn't gloss things over nor does she sugar coat the issues.

Thank you Christine Mehring for this heart-felt and gut check novel.  Well worth the read.

Writers Mirror gives Bitter Blessings 9 Stars!

Bitter Blessings - a novel  by Christine Mehring is published by Bonneville Books, an imprint of Cedar Fort, Inc.

Click here to purchase Bitter Blessings by Christine Mehring.