Friday, April 27, 2012

Meet Brandon Sweeney


About the Author

Brandon Sweeney is the Founder of Purpose Beyond the Game™, an organization geared towards helping athletes to discover their God-given purpose and identity.  Purpose Beyond the Game™ was created to offer young athletes viable tools to emphasize the importance of developing a plan B in an effort to prepare them for life after sports. Brandon Sweeney’s mission is to help great athletes become better men.  Sweeney plans to accomplish his mission by speaking, mentoring, consulting, writing books, creating materials, and resources.

About the Book

The purpose of this book is to bring understanding to players, coaches, and parents about the significance of preparing athletes for life after sports. In this book discover 8 stages that every athlete goes through in their relationship with sports. Learn the truth about what goes on in an athlete’s heart that nobody talks about. You will discover that there is more to an athlete than just sports. Athletes will also learn how to use the game without letting the game use them. This book will motivate, inspire and challenge athletes to discover who they are and their purpose beyond the game.

To learn more about Brandon, visit www.brandonsweeney.com

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Meet Author Deidra Green


About Deidra
Deidra D. S. Green is highly sought after as a lecturer, educator, and presenter. Her command of the podium, extensive knowledge base, and ability to effectively communicate, has both informed and captivated audiences. They leave challenged, inspired, and wanting more.

Deidra was born in E. St. Louis, IL to the proud parents of Robert W. and M. Catherine Smoot.  She is the eldest of the three children; her younger sister Robyn Kaye has been resting with God since 1999. Her baby brother Patrick Schayne, is an educator, author, and a dynamic speaker. Deidra, her two children VcToryann and Kamerron, and her brother reside in Atlanta GA.

Deidra has continued her literary prowess as a freelance writer, literary coach, ghostwriter and professional editor, as well as authoring several books for all age groups. In 2009, she founded The Mahogany Writers Exchange, a writing group for adults interested in honing their writing craft.

Other Works by Deidra include:
·       From the Outside In (non-fiction, true crime)
·       My Forever Airplane (children’s non-fiction)
·       Smallest Superhero (Children’s fiction series)
·       Smallest Superhero and the CBU (Children’s fiction series)
·       Epiphanies While Driving (inspiration/motivation)
·       Closet Issues: A Poet’s Journey into the Dark Places (prose/short stories)
·       Wordsmithin’ (poetry)
·       Twisted Sister (Adult fiction, first installment of Anthology of a Trick)

From the Outside In
A five year old little girl is brutally murdered by her mother’s boyfriend. His true identity is questioned and questionable from the very beginning. Her mother, a social worker, is found culpable but is not the primary killer. The people responsible for her protection have ultimately failed the little girl… and not just once. The story makes national headlines and is covered on every major news station in the local area. The media doesn't have the whole story, but someone else does. She is looking, “From the Outside In.”

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

BLOG TOUR: Stacy Hawkins Adams

About the Book

If forgiving your ex-husband was easy, everybody would do it.

Brent had cheated on Dayna and coldly said goodbye to her seven long years ago—dashing her hopes of having children or growing old with the love of her life.

Working hard to make herself successful as a hospital executive, Dayna has moved on, finding comfort in a new relationship with a faith-filled colleague, Warren.

But when Brent resurfaces on her doorstep at just the wrong time, Dayna’s heart threatens to come unglued. Why is Brent asking for forgiveness now? And why are he and his new wife, Tamara, interested in reconciliation with Dayna? The unbelievable answers begin to surface as Brent boldly asks Dayna to support him at the most crucial time of his life.

While Tamara’s heart brims with guilt, both women will discover what it means to reach beyond pain and baggage to love unconditionally, while leaving the consequences to God.


About the Author

Stacy Hawkins Adams is an award-winning inspirational author, speaker and freelance journalist who has written about women’s relationships with God, each other, and themselves for more than a decade. She has penned seven nationally published women’s fiction novels and one nonfiction book, and is at work on her ninth book.Stacy also operates a group coaching service for aspiring authors called Author In You. For more information about Stacy, her books or her coaching services, visit www.StacyHawkinsAdams.com or www.AuthorInYou.com.

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com

BarnesandNoble.com






Listen to Stacy's Interview
























Book Review


Date:                      4/12/12
Title:                      Coming Home
Author:                   Stacy Hawkins Adams
ISBN 13:                  978-0-310-33398-2
Pages:                    320
Publisher:               Zondervan
Cover:                    Paperback
Reviewer:               Tamarra Bryant – Literary Wonders!  
Rating:                    5 Stars

COMING HOME by Stacy Hawkins Adams captures the reader’s interest from the very first chapter. The main character, Dayna Wilson, is personable from the start and the author keeps you interested in her growth as the story progresses.

Stacy Hawkins Adams’ ability to develop characters is commendable and she uses the art of describing flaws and strengths in a way that enhances the storyline.

The novel is a great example of the walk that Christians must take and that God uses each of us in specific ways to develop our ability to bear fruit for the kingdom.

COMING HOME takes a character’s crisis (Dayna Wilson’s ex-husband), and teaches life lessons for the character living the crisis as well as those involved from the past and present.  The novel stresses the undeniable fact that God is in control and if we will only listen, He will guide us to that perfect peace. Stacy Hawkins Adams should be commended for such a great presentation. 


For More Information

Visit the author online at:
www.StacyHawkinsAdams.com or www.AuthorInYou.com.

View the blog tour schedule at : 


COMING HOME BOOK GIVEAWAY
Leave a comment below to enter a chance to win a free copy of Coming Home by Stacy Hawkins Adams. 

Monday, April 23, 2012

World Book Night is April 23rd.


What is World Book Night?
World Book Night is an annual celebration designed to spread a love of reading and books. To be held in the U.S. as well as the U.K. and Ireland on April 23, 2012. It will see tens of thousands of people go out into their communities to spread the joy and love of reading by giving out free World Book Night paperbacks.

World Book Night, through social media and traditional publicity, will also promote the value of reading, of printed books, and of bookstores and libraries to everyone year-round.

Successfully launched in the U.K. in 2011, World Book Night will also be celebrated in the U.S. in 2012, with news of more countries to come in future years. Please join our mailing list for regular World Book Night U.S. news. And thank you to our U.K. friends for such a wonderful idea!

Additionally, April 23 is UNESCO’s World Book Day, chosen due to the anniversary of Cervantes’ death, as well as Shakespeare’s birth and death.

This site exists in order to learn more about World Book Night and to keep updated on new developments – and most important, to register to be a World Book Night U.S. book giver.
To learn more about World Book Night and to participate, please visit http://www.us.worldbooknight.org/ or email april23@worldbooknight.org.

Friday, April 20, 2012

On Writing A Best-Seller (Shhh, There's a Formula)


On Writing A Best-Seller (Shhh, There's a Formula)

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

NEW RELEASE: An Accidental Affair by Eric Jerome Dickey

It’s been a while since we’ve heard from Bestselling author, Eric Jerome Dickey, but on April 17th, 2012, the Memphis, Tennessee born author released his latest novel, An Accidental Affair.

With over twenty-six novels, comics, short stories and scripts under his belt, it would be appropriate to say that EJD fans can’t wait to get their hands on what is expected to be an excellent read.

Dickey, who attended Memphis State for computer science and went on to become a software engineer, is the author of such titles as Sister, Sister, Friends and Lovers, Milk in My Coffee, Thieves Paradise, Chasing Destiny and Resurrecting Midnight.

More about An Accidental Affair:
James Thicke is a man whose mysterious past runs as deep as his violent streak. He's channeled the intensity of his soul into twin passions' success as a screenwriter, and marriage to movie actress Regina Baptiste. In the midst of filming his latest script, starring Regina and leading man Johnny Bergs, James receives a video of his wife caught in the most compromising of situations.

Hours later, the clip of the on-set infidelity has hit the Internet and gone viral in the blogosphere and across all channels of social media. James responds to the affront by savagely attacking Johnny Bergs, and the spectacle has both the paparazzi and the police amassing at the married couple's estate. James goes on the run, but only as far as the city of Downey, California. As James tries to protect Regina from Hollywood's underbelly, lust, blackmail, and revenge become his constant companions. Does an accidental affair spell permanent danger?

Learn more about Eric Jerome Dickey at: www.ericjeromedickey.com.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

BOOKSTORE: Idlewild Bookstore in NYC

Idlewild Bookstore is located at 12 W 19th Street (between 5th and 6th Ave) in Manhattan. They also have a store at 249 Warren Street in Brooklyn.

Idlewild is an independent Manhattan bookstore specializing in travel and world literature and organized by country. We also host language classes (French, Spanish and Italian) and have a wide selection of books in French and Spanish.
Idlewild carries a range of guidebooks to suit the needs and tastes of every traveler and budget. We believe that a novel, travelogue or history can be just as valuable a key to a place as any guidebook – and our well-read, well-traveled staff is happy to make reading recommendations for any traveler, book lover, or gift giver.
Idlewild is located in a beautiful, mezzanine-level space overlooking 19th Street, just two blocks from Union Square and within walking distance of most major NYC subway lines. The store’s unique layout, high ceilings and big windows, and ample seating make it a pleasant place to browse, shop and explore.

Idlewild Books was founded in 2008 by David Del Vecchio, a former United Nations press officer. The name Idlewild was taken from the original name for New York International Airport, which was renamed JFK in December 1963. We even have some stained glass and chairs from the original Idlewild Airport in our store!

Also visit the bookstore online at http://www.idlewildbooks.com

Monday, April 16, 2012

REVIEW - In Darkness by Nick Lane

Date:                     3/15/12
Title:                     In Darkness
Author:                  Nick Lake
ISBN 13:                 978-1599907437
Pages:                   342
Publisher:              Bloomsbury
Cover:                  Paperback
Reviewer:             B. Mclendon – Literary Wonders!  
Rating:                  3 Stars

In Darkness, by Nick Lake, did not pull me in and make me want to read it. Shorty’s journey from the present to the past and then back again did not hold my interest the way I think a good book should. I personally did not care for this book. 

Thursday, April 12, 2012

The Other Side of the River by Xi Chuan



The Other Side of the River
 
by Xi Chuan
translated by Lucas Klein

On the other side of the river
there is a flame
a flame
burning May

burning August

when the pagoda tree blooms, the professor with lentigo bows to her
when orange blossoms fall, an heir of graceful demeanor waves to her
and smiles

yet on the other side of the river she remains, still burning
like the underwater glistening of red coral
like a red straw hat blown away in the breeze

To read the rest of this poem, click here. This poem also available on the iTunes apps store.

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Poet App

Poems can be browsed by author, title, occasion, or form, and searched easily by keyword. Visitors can read a poem, anytime, anywhere—whether to fill a spare moment, woo a darling, toast a friend, find solace, or recite a few immortal lines—verse is now at your fingertips.



Features Include
- New Daily Poems
- Accumulating In-App Library
- Moving or Static Text
Accessible Offline -
- Adjustable Font Size
- Easy Share Options
- Clutter-free screen
- Literary Trivia


For more information about this app and how to download it, please click here or visit Poets.org. 

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Ellard Thomas is Moving Forward Courageously

Ellard Thomas MBA is an author, a coach, a leader, an inspirer, and a true gentleman. Mr. Thomas is the author of Moving Forward Courageously: Seven Secrets to Restoring Love, Money and Happiness in Your Life.” He is the founder and mentor of Men of Greatness and Moving Forward, Courageously.
IamMFC.com (I am Moving Forward, Courageously) is a resource site created by empowerment speakers and trainers who believe in giving people the necessary tools, training, and inspiration that will help them take control of their lives and to achieve what matters most in life.

Regardless of IamMFC.com’s audiences' socioeconomic statuses, educational levels, political stances, religious views, backgrounds, and past or current circumstances, they believe in building up people—their courage—their hope, so they will transcend into their ideal definition of greatness, success and contentment. 

Please click here to listen to Ellard’s interview with That Literary Lady and The Author’s Hideaway. You can also find his interview on iTunes.

Resources:

Monday, April 9, 2012

REVIEW - Reclaiming Lilly by Patti Lacy

Date:                     3/25/12
Title:                     Reclaiming Lilly
Author:                  Patti Lacy
ISBN 13:                 978-0764209413
Pages:                   380
Publisher:              Bethany House
Cover:                  Paperback
Reviewer:             B. McClendon – Literary Wonders!  
Rating:                  5 Stars


             Patti Lacy, the author of Reclaiming Lilly, crosses culture barriers between American adoptive parents and her natural Chinese sister Lily.
Andrew and Gloria Powell are trying to protect Lily, whom they call Joy. They believe her natural sister, Kai, may be a threat to their family.
Kai is the sister that left Lily at an orphanage because of a Chinese family planning order. In addition to trying to reclaim Lily, Kai is also a doctor who is trying to alert Lily’s adoptive parents of a genetic disorder that Lily may have inherited from her natural mother.
This book touches the heart with the hope and love of wanting, having and losing a child. I’m ready to read more of Patti Lacy’s books.  

Friday, April 6, 2012

Literary Diva Elissa Gabrielle

Elissa Gabrielle
Peace in the Storm Publishing
Literary Entrepreneur, Elissa Gabrielle is the author of several novels and the CEO and President of Peace in the Storm Publishing. Add to her resume of titles and experience, Greeting Card creator, and winner of several literary awards, this literary diva is nothing short of exceptional and successful.


Although, I couldn’t find one thing that the ‘she-preneur’ and I could disagree on, I asked her, what was the biggest problem she experienced when it came to authors trying to approach her as a publisher. Her response, “Professionalism.” Now, that is something I definitely agree with!

I had a great time talking to and interviewing this publisher of nearly fifteen authors. You can find her interview here, and on our iTunes podcast.

Please support Elissa at www.elisssagabrielle.com and Peace in the Storm Publishing at www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com. You can also “like” Elissa on Facebook and follow her on Twitter. You can “like” Peace in the Storm Publishing on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Golden Eagle a Poem by Rick Bonner

Golden Eagle
Rick Bonner


'She lives too far away and unlikely to stay', the wise old owl advised.
'It's just a heartbeat away', the eagle conveyed, 'for my mate to fly into my nest.

He adored her elfin smile and off-beat style, such intelligence fascinates.
Golden circle complete when two eagles meet, within the shades of an avery gates.

Golden eagle it's time to fly,
Up into a sanguine sky.
Risk this leap of faith, and do not delay,
All you need to do is try.

One solitary voice, devoid of all choice, longs for het to spread her wings .
Now seize the day and fly away, come behold what the future may bring.

So golden eagle rise tonight,
Prepare to glide across the moonlight,
Feel love's force, let nature take it's course,
As you elevate into the twilight.

He dreams one-day you'll meet, beneath soft sheets, it is time for fragile hearts to grow strong.
So fly with speed into this hour of need, for it is written in the stars that you belong.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

April is National Poetry Month

Inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, National Poetry Month is now held every April, when publishers, booksellers, literary organizations, libraries, schools and poets around the country band together to celebrate poetry and its vital place in American culture. Thousands of businesses and non-profit organizations participate through readings, festivals, book displays, workshops, and other events.


To learn more facts about National Poetry Month, to order a National Poetry Month poster, or to find out about events being held in honor of National Poetry Month, visit Poets.org

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Spring Fever Chocolate Promotion Dessert

Yes, folks, that’s correct, it’s spring and That Literary Lady is going to give you her top secret recipe to my Spring Fever Chocolate Promotion Dessert—and it’s FREE! I think FREE is the best four-letter word there is—besides fries. Oh wait, that’s five letters. Gotcha!


Now that I have your attention, here is my recipe for a Spring Fever Chocolate Promotion Dessert. Please note that you may have seen some of these ingredients in many of my previous articles—I mean recipes. Many of the ingredients are also FREE!


SPRING FEVER CHOCOLATE PROMOTION DESSERT


Ingredients
3 cups of Product―Books, eBooks and other Products
1/3 cup of Review or Blurb substitute
2 ½ cups of Synopsis or Book Pitch Substitute
½ cup of Elevator Pitch
1 cup of Website or Blog Substitute
3 cups of Social Media
1 ½ cups of Press Kit
¼ cup of Press Release
1 cup of Promotional Material
¼ cup of Video Conferencing
¼ cup of Podcasting
½ cup of Mailing List or Substitute
2 cups of Book Signing or Event Substitute
1 cup of Expertise or Substitute
3 cups of Education or Substitute
2 cups of Competitor Review or Stalker Substitute
6 cups of Consistency
5 cups of Engagement
4 cups of Networking or Word of Mouth Substitute
Chocolate optional


Pre-heat enthusiasm to 500 degrees. Wax or butter running shoes and flour a 9x9 inch of willpower. In a large bowl, whisk 3 cups of paperback, hardcover, and ebooks together. Stir vigorously until published. Stir in pinch of audio book (optional).


Monday, April 2, 2012

M. Ann Ricks - 2012 Spring Literary Showcase

M. Ann Ricks

Christian Literature Author, (Melissa) M. Ann Ricks is the author of Awesome Wonder: The Gift of Remembrance, The Son and The Blood Done Signed My Name

Hailing from Elizabeth, New Jersey, M. Ann, started writing at a late stage in her life, during the pregnancy of her first child.  As she reclaimed her relationship with God, Melissa’s desire to write became stronger and stronger. She would eventually go on to publisher her first novel, Awesome Wonder: The Gift of Remembrance.

Below is a link to our interview with the Christian author as well as a book trailer for her newest title, The Blood Done Signed My Name.

We are sure you will find the interview as enjoyable as we did as we find out why she writes and what inspires her. 

In addition to listening to the interview here, you can also listen to the interview on our iTunes Podcast channel, http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/lw!s-the-authors-hideaway!/id489293831.

Please stop by Ms. Ricks’ website (http://www.mannricks.net/default.html)to find out more about her books and her cause. Also, please support this author by purchasing a book and by leaving a comment on this post.



Book Trailer – http://youtu.be/1umSjMGuUYI