Pinto & In the Heart of a Mustang (cont.)by M.J. Evans Book Tour & Giveaway! {Ends 8/14/20}7/29/2020 
In the Heart of a Mustang by M.J. Evans
Category: YA Fiction (Ages 13-17), 359 pages Genre: Contemporary Coming of Age Publisher: Dancing Horse Press ~ Release date: October, 2017 Tour dates: July 27 to August 7, 2020 Content Rating: PG. Some suggested violence but not explicit Book Description: A boy is told that his father was a brave and virtuous man, a soldier who traded his life to save the lives of countless others. He was the man that Hunter needed to emulate. The only problem is the whole story is a lie, all of it. The truth, which Hunter discovers as he begins his sophomore year of high school, is that his father has actually spent the boy’s entire life in jail, paying his debt to society, but not mending his ways. A wild mustang mare, is rounded up by the BLM. The spring rains had been sparse, the forage on the plains even more so. The mare and her herd are rescued from certain starvation and placed for adoption. In a sandy corral at Promise Ranch, a home for troubled teenage boys, the boy and the mare meet. A weathered, old cowboy brings them together – a mentor for one, a trainer for the other. The bond that forms between boy and horse becomes one that saves the lives of both. Buy the Book: Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million~ Book Depository ~ IndieBound Add to Goodreads
BOOK REVIEW by LAWonder10: This is an amazing story which will surely enthrall the reader from the first page to the last one! A teenage boy has been raised his whole life with the tales of his war hero father who he should honor through living his life in a manner to make his father pleased. He arrived home from school one day hearing his mother arguing with an unfamiliar, roguish man...his father. Outraged that he'd been lied to his entire life, Hunter began ditching school and hanging out in a bad part of town... but not for long. He got busted! His grandfather persuaded the Judge to allow Hunter to live at an at-risk boy's ranch in Arizona. As the grandfather drove him to his new home, the two rode in silence. Hunter would never forgive his mother and was angry with his grandfather for taking him to this strange place. He was determined to make them all regret it. When they arrived at the ranch, horses were being unloaded. as one particular filly was being unloaded there was strong, yet brief, eye contact between her and Hunter...Did he imagine it? Smokey was the "horse handler". He was also good with young, troubled boys. He had noticed the brief exchange between boy and horse. Carefully speaking to the boy, he instilled interest in Hunter making that filly his by gently, patiently taking care of her. Hunter named her Sally. Julius was Hunter's "bunk mate". He jovially "chipped away" the wall Hunter had built around himself. The cook and housekeeper also became a close friend to Hunter. This is an inspiring story of how the love of an animal, and the responsibility of its care, helped change a young man's direction in life. It is also a story of loving support without criticism. I highly recommend this book to not only young readers, but adults as well. The characters are so realistic and the story events so feasible, it feels more like a true story rather than fiction. I offer a Five Stars rating. *This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review. 
Book Details:
Book Title: PINTO! Based Upon the True Story of the Longest Horseback Ride in History by M.J. Evans Category: Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12), 243 pages Genre: Historical Fiction Publisher: Dancing Horse Press Release date: October, 2019 Format available for review: print, mobi file (for Kindle), gifted Kindle copy, ePub, PDF, NetGalley download Will send print books out: USA Tour dates: July 27 to August 7, 2020 Content Rating: G. This book is taken from the actual journals that were kept by the men on the journey. There is no bad language or explicit scenes. Book Description: In 1912, four men, calling themselves the “Overland Westerners,” decided fame and fortune awaited if they embarked on the longest horseback ride in history. Their goal was to visit all forty-eight state capitals over the course of three years and complete their journey at the San Francisco World’s Fair on June 1, 1915. Facing rugged roads, raging rivers, thieves and near starvation, the men went through seventeen horses. Only one horse completed the entire journey…Pinto, a little horse with a heart as big as the whole country! This is Pinto’s account of his arduous adventure. Buy the Book: Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million Book Depository ~ IndieBound 
Meet the Author:
Award-winning author M.J. Evans grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Upon graduation from Oregon State University, she spent five years teaching high school and middle school students. She retired from teaching to raise her five children. Mrs. Evans is a life-long equestrian and enjoys competing in Dressage and riding in the beautiful Colorado mountains. She has published fourteen books, most of which are fiction. Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Pinterest ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads 
Giveaway Details:
Win 1 of 5 print copies of PINTO! or 1 of 5 copies of HEART OF A MUSTANG! ( USA only) (10 winners) (ends Aug 14) TO ENTER, Fill out the Rafflecopter Below! 
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Pinto! / IN THE HEART OF A MUSTANG by M.J. Evans Book Tour, Guest Post & Giveaway! {Ends 8/14/20}7/27/2020 
Book Details:
PINTO! Based Upon the True Story of the Longest Horseback Ride in History by M.J. Evans Category: Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12), 243 pages Genre: Historical Fiction | Publisher: Dancing Horse Press Release date: October, 2019 | Tour dates: July 27 to August 7, 2020 Content Rating: G. This book is taken from the actual journals that were kept by the men on the journey. There is no bad language or explicit scenes. Book Description: In 1912, four men, calling themselves the “Overland Westerners,” decided fame and fortune awaited if they embarked on the longest horseback ride in history. Their goal was to visit all forty-eight state capitals over the course of three years and complete their journey at the San Francisco World’s Fair on June 1, 1915. Facing rugged roads, raging rivers, thieves and near starvation, the men went through seventeen horses. Only one horse completed the entire journey…Pinto, a little horse with a heart as big as the whole country! This is Pinto’s account of his arduous adventure. Buy the Book: Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million ~ Book Depository ~ IndieBound
REVIEW by LAWonder10:
What makes this an even better story, for young and old alike, is that it actually happened but is little known! Related through the thoughts of "Pinto", this is an amazing true story of the "longest horseback ride in history'. Taken from Journal accounts and other communities records, very little fiction has been added to it. It is a tale about the only journey to stop at the Capitols of forty-eight states by four men on horseback. They set a world record! Still the majority of Americans are aware of it! Have you ever heard of the Overland Westerners? The story is very entertaining and captivating, yet, bittersweet. Pinto relates the various types of struggles, the horses and the four men endured. She also mentions the receptions they received in the various places. She discovers some areas are more accommodating than others, but in all areas, there are generous, hospitable people and those who are not. After reading this account, determine what category you would it into. The story in the first person, being told by a horse makes it very delightful reading. It is very well portrayed in the wording. The title and cover are both a good "fit". It is a great book for family reading. All ages can easily enjoy it. I offer a Five Stars rating for this book. This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my Honest review.
Other Book in this series and Tour;
Book Details:
In the Heart of a Mustang by M.J. Evans Category: YA Fiction (Ages 13-17), 359 pages Genre: Contemporary Coming of Age Publisher: Dancing Horse Press Release date: October, 2017 Tour dates: July 27 to August 7, 2020 Content Rating: PG. Some suggested violence but not explicit Book Description: A boy is told that his father was a brave and virtuous man, a soldier who traded his life to save the lives of countless others. He was the man that Hunter needed to emulate. The only problem is the whole story is a lie, all of it. The truth, which Hunter discovers as he begins his sophomore year of high school, is that his father has actually spent the boy’s entire life in jail, paying his debt to society, but not mending his ways. A wild mustang mare, is rounded up by the BLM. The spring rains had been sparse, the forage on the plains even more so. The mare and her herd are rescued from certain starvation and placed for adoption. In a sandy corral at Promise Ranch, a home for troubled teenage boys, the boy and the mare meet. A weathered, old cowboy brings them together – a mentor for one, a trainer for the other. The bond that forms between boy and horse becomes one that saves the lives of both. Buy the Book: Amazon.com ~ B&N ~ Books-A-Million ~ Book Depository ~ IndieBound Add to Goodreads
Q: How Do You Raise Kids To Be Book-lovers?
A: As an author, former teacher, and mother of five, I am often asked this question. We all know how important reading is for success in school and a fulfilling life. But how do we help our kids love to read? First, let me say that most children will love to read if they do not have a disability that makes reading difficult or downright unpleasant. If that is the case, I recommend reading to them or using audio books. But let me focus for now on your average child that is not struggling with a disability. As I mentioned, I have five children, all of whom are now grown. Each of them has at least one college degree and some of the over achievers have multiple. We all know that reading well is a big asset when it comes to getting an education. I even have one son who writes a book blog! So, what did I do right as a mom? Reading has always been a part of our home. Both my husband and I are avid readers. Our home is filled with books. I have a bookcase in nearly every room. Our children saw their parents reading all the time they were growing up. I also read to my children every day…from they time I held a nursing baby on up through their teenage years. On road trips I read to them. During the summer months I had scheduled reading time. At four o’clock every day, friends went home, toys were put away, and the books came out. If a child couldn’t read, I read to him. Once they could read on their own, they picked their own books and read to themselves. We read until five o’clock at which time they had the choice to either keep reading or help me cook dinner! Win, Win. They all learned how to cook! Make time for reading. Make reading fun. Let them read something that interests them. Read with them! 
Meet the Author:
Award-winning author M.J. Evans grew up in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Upon graduation from Oregon State University, she spent five years teaching high school and middle school students. She retired from teaching to raise her five children. Mrs. Evans is a life-long equestrian and enjoys competing in Dressage and riding in the beautiful Colorado mountains. She has published fourteen books, most of which are fiction. Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Pinterest ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads 
Giveaway Details:
Win 1 of 5 print copies of PINTO! or 1 of 5 copies of HEART OF A MUSTANG! (USA only) (10 winners) (ends Aug 14) ENTER the Giveaway by completing the Rafflecopter Below! 
  DAY OF RECKONING (Concord Chronicles # 1) by Kai Strand * Paperback: 289 pages * Publisher: Independently published * Language: English * ISBN-10: 1690603372 * ISBN-13: 978-1690603375 SYNOPSIS: Not only does twelve-year-old Terra learn she’s a Nature’s Spirit destined to serve the peaceful underground city of Concord, but she also finds she is named in a prophecy as the only one who can thwart the leader of the death tribe. The Trepidus are the death janitors of the Underworld. They’re responsible for the termination and cleanup of Concord’s beings. When their leader, Blanco, learns Terra is the one who can derail his day of reckoning, he does everything he can to get rid of her. Including, dispatch a “Bringer” to complete the ultimate of death janitor duties. Not only does Terra want to stay alive, but she hopes to complete her training and discover her Spirit talents too. So, Frank, a Spirit of Security, is assigned to protect her. Together, they undertake a secret investigation of how to defeat Blanco. But with the future of Concord and Terra’s very own life at stake, will they find the answer in time? Can be purchased at the following sites: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iBooks | Kobo
When It’s All Made Up, But You Have to Believe It by Kai Strand The setting of a story is difficult to develop in the first place, but in a fantasy such as Day of Reckoning, where the characters spend a lot of time in the underground city of Concord, it takes a lot of re-writing. It’s part of being an author. You have an idea in your head. You put the idea onto a page. You realize you shared too much, so you cut some of it out. You realize you might have cut too much, so you add some back in. You go back and forth until you think you’ve finally set the stage for the reader without boring them in the process. Here is a small example of setting that, even though it is out of context for you currently, should place you with the main characters immediately: He cautiously opened a trapdoor and looked around before climbing out. Terra saw they were in an alley. She had a clear view up and down the street, but a cinderblock wall impeded her view across the street. This trapdoor was hidden in the dumpster area behind some condominiums. Though it was 2:00 a.m., Terra was comfortable in her long-sleeved denim blouse and jeans, so she knew they were in a warm climate. Frank cautiously peeked around the privacy wall. He led the way to the back of the nearest condo. Quietly, Frank opened a gate and snuck into a fenced patio area. He climbed a trellis to a second floor balcony. Terra followed, even though her muscles protested in anger when she called on them to climb. Waiting for her on the balcony, Frank hesitated before approaching the sliding glass door. With a fortifying breath, he walked purposefully toward it. It disappeared for them to enter. Terra was surprised to find they were in a girl’s room. She assumed Frank would take her to his house. She looked around. “Where are we?” This particular example is easy to follow for the reader because there are so many familiar things, warm weather, an alley, condominiums. Things a reader has experience with and can bring to mind. In this next example, we are in a fantasy setting in the same story. Once they were there, she understood why Hermie had called it the overlook. A large city sprawled below them. The sight of it stunned Terra into silence. A glow emanated from the very ground underneath the city, as if the daytime sky replaced the ground. Outrageously shaped buildings, which appeared to defy gravity, lined streets teaming with vehicles that seemed to have been plucked from an amusement park. Brightly colored creatures walked, slithered, or hopped in and out of top-heavy buildings or structures that resembled tree trunks. Terra chuckled with delight when what she had assumed was a fluorescent yellow light pole, crossed the street along with the rest of the peculiar pedestrian traffic. From her vantage point, it was like watching people move about in a painting. As you can see, it takes very few words to paint a fantastical setting for the reader. By – again – using things that are familiar “daytime sky replaced the ground” or “vehicles…plucked from an amusement park” I’ve painted a quick picture of an unexpected vista. Descriptive words like “slithered or hopped” encourage the reader to make up their own fantastical beings that might move in that way. And alluding to unusual building shapes adds a Seuss-esque feeling to the vista. What I learned while writing Day of Reckoning is it doesn’t take a lot to put the reader into a fantastical setting. As a matter of fact, less is more.  ABOUT the AUTHOR Award-winning Kai Strand, author of the action-packed Super Villain Academy series, is often found exploring hiking trails and snapping pictures of waterfalls in her Oregon hometown. Mother of four, Kai uses her life experiences to connect with young readers. With middle grade works such as Save the Lemmings, The Weaver Tale series, and Day of Reckoning, and emotional YA adventures like Finding Thor, I Am Me, and Worth the Effort, Kai has written compelling stories that tweens, teens, and their parents love. Kai has given numerous presentations throughout Oregon about her work and the writing process. She loves interacting with teens and gaining their insight on their latest reads as well as what they would like to see in future stories. Kai's Media: Website | Mailing List | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Amazon | Be sure to follow Kai on her week-long tour HERE.  GIVEAWAY DETAILS: Author Kai Strand is giving away four $5 Amazon Gift Cards and one lucky winner will receive a digital copy of DAY OF RECKONING along with a $15 Amazon Gift Card To enter the giveaway, just click on HERE and you’ll be directed to the widget   Originally titled "From Frights to Flaws", this story is the exciting and enchanting first book in the "Magical Missions" series.  Book Details: The Frights of Fiji (Alyssa McCarthy's Magical Missions, Book 1) by Sunayna Prasad Category: Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12), 136 pages Genre: Fantasy | Tour dates: May 4 to May 29, 2020 Publisher: Amazon KDP | Release date: October 2018 Content Rating: G: There is no mature language or adult content whatsoever. Book Description: A world of magic and adventure awaits… Sent to live with her strict, aloof, and uncaring uncle after her parents are killed in a car accident, twelve-year-old orphan Alyssa McCarthy longs for the life she used to have—one filled with fun and love. Then one stormy night, a message appears in the raindrops on the window that will change everything. "Your life will never be the same again, as magic will interfere." Before long, Alyssa is kidnapped by Master Beau, a banished sorcerer with a mysterious connection to her who can only regain his power by weakening hers. Suddenly hurled into a world of wizardry filled with fantastical beasts and marvelous technology beyond her wildest imagination, Alyssa must defeat Master Beau if she ever wants to get home again. But Master Beau will stop at nothing, including using Alyssa’s friends, to ensure he is triumphant. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Kobo ~ Add to Goodreads  Book Details: A Curse of Mayhem (Alyssa McCarthy's Magical Missions, Book 2) by Sunayna Prasad Category: Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12), 173 pages Genre: Fantasy | Tour dates: May 4 to May 29, 2020 Publisher: Amazon KDP | Release date: July 2019 Content Rating: G: There is no mature language or adult content whatsoever. Book Description: History, like magic, has a habit of repeating itself. It’s been six months since thirteen-year-old Alyssa McCarthy left magic behind for good. Or so she thought… Then the enchanted objects that protected her disappear. Now a skeleton named Errol has cursed her with magical powers that keep getting her in trouble. Suddenly strange things are happening with disastrous effects, and if Alyssa can’t remove the magic, she will lose everything she holds dear. In order to get rid of her unwanted wizardry, Alyssa will have to boost her bravery and confidence and determine who Errol really is. But every time Alyssa uses an enchantment, Errol is one step closer to getting his flesh back and becoming alive, and he will do anything to achieve his goals…even if it means destroying Alyssa’s happiness. Originally published in 2016 as “Wizardry Goes Wild” and “The Unruly Curse” in 2019, “A Curse of Mayhem” is book two in the exciting and suspenseful “Magical Missions” series. BUY THE BOOK: Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ Kobo ~ Add to Goodreads
Sunayna Prasad, author of A CURSE OF MAYHEM Guest Post: Don’t be Shy and Give it a try: Research by Asking Real People With research, you look for more than just the craft rules. Those include the setting your story takes place, the laws of that society, and much more. While I have researched common things like how detention works in schools, one thing I needed to learn more about involved a minor backstory error in both the first and second installments of my novels. However, I am resolving it by adding a to that mistake in the third book. It will reveal how that incorrect statement had been false the whole time. If you can’t find anything relevant to the research needed for your project, sometimes it is best to ask someone who is an expertise in that specific field. Just give him or her enough information about your project as well as your question. I did that for the little error I made in my books due to not performing careful research on it. You can also join writing forums for help, as well. The one I participate in when I have questions has a research section. That is where I asked about things I had to know, and would be harder to seek through Google. That is also where I found out how detention works in schools, since in my series’ second installment, my main character lands in it. However, I never got detention in school, which is obviously a good thing. But I still received useful answers. Another topic I needed to learn more about was how much stress it would take for somebody to end up in shock. Unlike the detention subject, though, this element did not make it into my first book, where it was intended to go. While the Internet may be there 24/7 (for the most part), you can always ask real people for research questions whether it’s one person or on a forum.   Meet the Author: Sunayna Prasad enjoys writing fantasy books for children, as well as cooking, creating artwork, watching online videos, and blogging. She has also written The Frights of Fiji, formerly titled as From Frights to Flaws. She is passionate about modern life, fantasy, and world-building. Aside from her website, she also has a blog about different creative and entertaining topics, including fiction and writing, called “Sunayna Prasad’s Blog”. Sunayna has graduated from college in May 2017. She lives in Long Island, NY. Connect with the Author: website ~ twitter  Giveaway Details: Prizes: Win 1 of 3 sets of Alyssa McCarthy's Magical Missions (ebook) or a $25 Amazon Gift Card (4 winners) (ends June 5) To Enter the Giveaway, Click on HERE!   I’m delighted to be participating in author Beverly Stowe McClure’s Blog Tour today for her latest release, GABE’S GUARDIAN ANGEL. This author has always been a favorite of mine.  GABE’S GUARDIAN ANGEL by Beverly Stowe McClure * Paperback: 214 pages * Publisher: Freedom Fox Press * ISBN-10: 1939844665 * ISBN-13: 978-1939844668 SYNOPSIS: Gabe Montana is clumsy. He's overweight, and he's dyslexic. Worse yet, the bullies make his fifteen-year-old life even more miserable-so miserable he wants to die. Charley, his guardian angel, says no to that idea and comes up with a different plan. He'll give Gabe self-confidence so he can solve his problems, not run away from them. But Gabe wonders why the angel doesn't just help with the bullies. What's with this self-confidence stuff? Can Charley help Gabe stand on his own two feet? Will Gabe give up hope life can improve for him? Or will he finally listen to the angel's advice? GABE'S GUARDIAN ANGEL is available at the following sites: AMAZON PAPERBACK | AMAZON KINDLE | BARNES AND NOBLE PAPERBACK | BARNES AND NOBLE NOOK BOOK | KOBO
I highly recommend Gabe's Guardian Angel to all youth ages 8 to 18 and educators/guardians!! Beverly McClure has captured so many youth dilemmas in this one short novel. Gabe and his sister, Lindy have many challenges they face daily. Their mother died after the birth of Lindy. Their father abandoned them. Their maternal grandfather took them in and gave them much love. Since the grandfather was not educated, he had to find whatever work he could. They moved to a small town, lived in a small house and the grandfather worked three jobs. Gabe did odd jobs for others to help with the bills thee best he could. Gabe was slightly overweight and dreaded school for many reasons. One particular day at school with a very painful incident, changed Gabe's life forever. The topic in this story addresses integrity, bullying, abandonment, reaching out, true friendship, family relationships, abuse, supreme assistance, dyslexia, obesity, non-judgement and so much more. The characters are well developed and seem to be alive and real! The scenes are portrayed to a pint the reader can experience the feeling of being there. The Cover and Title are eye-catching and depicts the story well. This is an uplifting, yet true to life story. I offer a Four and a Half Stars rating. This book was gifted me with no pressure for e a positive review. This is my honest review.  ABOUT the AUTHOR: Most of the time, you’ll find Award-Winning Author Beverly Stowe McClure at her computer, typing stories young voices whisper in her ears. When she’s not writing, she’s snapping pictures of wildlife, flowers, and clouds. She’s affectionately known as the “Bug Lady.” She’s not telling why. To relax she plays the piano. Her fur babies don’t appreciate good music and hide when she tickles the ivories. Beverly is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She also teaches a women’s Sunday school class at her church. To Follow Beverly and her writing visit: Blog | Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads |  GIVEAWAY DETAILS: Author Beverly Stowe McClure is giving away one print copy of GABE’S GUARDIAN ANGEL to a lucky US winner. To enter the giveaway, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. Rafflecopter Giveaway ! For Tour Schedule, Click on HERE!    Journey to Twilight (series Land of Twilight #1) by Charmayne Hafen, Illustrations are by award-winning artist, Brianna Osaseri. Middle Grade Fantasy | Paperback & ebook, 113 Pages November 1st 2019 by Capture Books Synopsis: Sam and Lorna’s bike race becomes far more than a neighborhood competition in this action-adventure fantasy. Lorna Wilson moves to the Crestwood subdivision in Arizona with her mom and baby brother. Unpacking, Lorna seeks a way to fit into the crowd when a girl named Ally knocks on her front door. Splashing in the pool at Ally’s house, Lorna learns about the bike challenge created by a scar-faced neighborhood legend, Samuel Black. She hears herself boasting that she can take on Sam Black in his own bike challenge and win. Lorna's words quickly come back to bite her. Although none of the kids will root for the new girl, an ancient cairn opens to the Land of Twilight giving Lorna an opportunity to win anything her heart desires. Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Target | Book Depository | Kobo  Journey to Twilight - Charmayne Hafen This story has some fun mythical characters and Twilight is an interesting place. I like the friendship that built between Sam and Lorna. I really like the illustrations. They are awesome. The characters are well-developed and it's easy to feel their emotions. The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a great adventure. I give it literary rating of 5/5 written by vickie  Return to Twilight (Land of Twilight Trilogy #2) By Charmayne Hafen Middle Grade Fantasy | Paperback & ebook, 142 Pages January 21st 2020 by Capture Books SYNOPSIS: In this second book of the Land of Twilight Trilogy, seventh-grade Lorna struggles with the meaning of friend like, how to be one, how to choose one, and how to keep one. Lorna rejects her dad, deceives her mom, and turns her back on the ethereal Land of Twilight. She even turns on her best friend, Sam, in favor of gaining the attention of a new girl in the neighborhood, Jenny. Lorna sheds her own social norms, stealing and hiding as she pretends to enjoy her second year in challenging Crestwood, Arizona. It has to be Sam's turn to do what true friends do. An exciting read for readers ages 9-13 who enjoy Celtic mythology, magic, and busting the dust of the Arizona desert with your best friend. (Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository  Return to Twilight - Charmayne Hafen I really like the way Sam helped Lorna find her faith. This story creates a great way to make learning faith in a fun and educational way. This is a good follow up to Journey to Twilight. The characters are well-developed and it's easy to feel their emotions. The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a great adventure. I give it literary rating of 5/5 written by vickie  Trouble to Twilight (Land of Twilight Trilogy #3) By Charmayne Hafen Middle Grade Fantasy | Paperback & ebook, 129 Pages April 1st 2020 by Capture Books SYNOPSIS: How can the most colorful world in the universe turn hapless and gray?! That's what mystifies both Sam and Lorna. Trix falls from the Land of Twilight, showing up at the discarded camper shell in the Arizona desert where Sam and Lorna are making their secret plans. Trix and Melvin focus on the Land of Realtime because the lives of both Lorna and Sam have interwoven with the Land of Twilight. How can the four unravel themselves? A tragic accident forces Sam to again realize that life can change suddenly. Now he and Lorna must rethink what in life is most important to them. History, philosophy, and faith enter the scene through interdimensional time travel. The Land of Twilight Trilogy is filled with adventure and supernatural elements for readers ages 9-12. With its relatable characters and fast-moving plot, Sam and Lorna discover their priorities. As Sam faces unbearable consequences, he learns the bonds of true friendship and personal truth are real. Readers are given not only an interesting story filled with allegorical elements about the meaning of faith, but are also challenged to think about their own ideas of reality and meaning. (Affiliate links included.)Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository  Trouble in Twilight - Charmayne Hafen This is another awesome book in Twilight with fun mythical characters. This is a good follow up to Journey to Twilight and Return to Twilight. The characters are well-developed and it's easy to feel their emotions. The story flows well from chapter to chapter and is easy to follow along. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a great adventure. I give it literary rating of 5/5 written by vickie   About the Author Charmayne Hafen has been writing since she was nine years old when she kept a private journal documenting love and loss in her fourth-grade class. In 2016, she published her first book, The Land Of Twilight, which was selected as a winner in the category of Juvenile Fiction in the Winter 2017 NABE Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards. Using knowledge and skills acquired from her MA in counseling, Charmayne wrote The Land Of Twilight series to help kids navigate the sometimes difficult waters of divorce. Her love of Celtic mythology also influenced the book. The first book in the series has been republished under a new title called Journey To Twilight which will be available November 1, 2019. There will be two more books in the series coming out early [2020]. Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram  GIVEAWAY DETAILS: One winner will receive an ebook of Journey to Twilight and a $50 Amazon eGift Card Open internationally Ends April 30, 2020 ENTER HERE!   A spellbinding tale of adventure, magic and friendship” V.F.Sharp, author of The Forest of Arrows  Smailholm by C.L. Williams Genre: YA Fantasy Release Date: January 28th 2020 Summary: Shh! Can you keep a secret? In wild medieval Britain thirteen-year-old Wynn Hoppringle has a big secret of the smallest kind. She has discovered a miniature village hidden close to her family home of Smailholm Tower. When tales of merciless border raiders reach the small folk, they realise they are in danger and must seek a cure to their strange predicament. Can Wynn help her tiny friends or will the scheming King quog have other ideas? Heroes it seems come in all sizes. “ Add to Goodreads | ~ Purchase Links: https://shor.by/clwilliams | Audible     GIVEAWAY! One copy of a luxury clothbound hardback with Smailholm book swag including enamel ‘Reader of Magic’ enamel pin, Believer bookmark, three character illustrations and miniature bow and arrow charm (INT) To Enter the Giveaway Click on HERE!   THE WICKED TREE, a MG dark fantasy that will appeal to fans of Jonathan Auxier’s THE NIGHT GARDENER and Mary Downing Hahn’s TOOK. If you love SERAFINA AND THE BLACK CLOAK, then THE WICKED TREE is for you!  The Wicked Tree by Kristin Thorsness Publication Date: October 8, 2019 | Publisher: Month9Books SYNOPSIS: Deep in the woods, a gnarled tree grows. Its thick, black trunk twists angrily up into the night sky. Held in place by the magic of a long-ago patriarch, it has waited centuries to lure a descendant into its trap. When Tavorian Kreet and his mom move in with his great-grandmother, Tav is forbidden to go into the woods on the estate. But like most eleven-year-olds, he just can’t resist. After secretly exploring the woods, Tav begins having dreams about a supernatural tree. Soon, the dreams change from pleasant to dark and menacing. On a dare, Tav ventures farther into the woods with his new friend, Harper. There, they meet a mysterious, mute boy named Edward who lives in a decrepit cabin nearby. Afraid, and unable to speak, Edward scrawls “Wicked Tree” on the ground. Determined to help Edward, Tav enlists Harper, and they search the estate for clues to Edward’s identity and how to help him. With Harper’s help, Tav pieces together the Kreet family history and discovers an ancient curse. If Tav wants to save his friends and family, he must go into the heart of the woods, find the Wicked Tree, and confront a most evil magic. Link to Goodreads | Purchase Links: Google Play | BAM | Chapters | Indies | Amazon | B&N | Kobo | TBD | iBooks REVIEW BY Vickie  The Wicked Tree - Kristin Thorsness This story has so much imagination and great thinking put into it. I love the magic that takes place in their little area. The characters are well-developed and it's easy to feel their emotions. I really like the friendship with Tav and Harper. They are wonderful characters. Edward is also an awesome character. The cover of the book and title fit the story perfectly. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a good adventure, magic and the unexpected. I give this book a literary rating of 5/5 written by vickie  ABOUT the AUTHOR: Kristin Thorsness is a former 5th and 6th grade teacher who lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, their son and daughter, and two spoiled dogs. She likes dark chocolate, strong coffee, and creepy stories that keep her up reading late into the night. For more info or to get in touch, visit her online at www.kristinthorsness.com . Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads  Giveaway Info: One (1) winner will win a Starbucks Gift Card Enter by clicking on the Rafflecopter link RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY    Bertie's Book of Spooky Wonders by Ocelot Emerson Publication Date: October 15, 2019 | Publisher: Tantrum Books SYNOPSIS Twelve-year-old Bertie Blount is great at causing trouble. When she's forced to leave behind her dad and friends in North Carolina so her mom can marry the most boring optometrist in the world, Bertie has a chance at a fresh start. But when Bertie arrives in Pennsylvania, she doesn’t just bring trouble; she brings disaster. In a moment of anger, Bertie unwittingly triggers an accident that puts her future stepbrother in a coma. Broken and desperate to make things right, Bertie prays for a miracle. Instead, the universe gives her a pair of supernatural sunglasses, a wise-cracking doppleganger, and a terrifying ghost that sends Bertie on a dangerous mission to find the one thing that just might save her stepbrother’s life. Add to Goodreads |~ Pre-order link: Google Play | BAM | Chapters | Indies | Amazon | B&N | Kobo | TBD | iBooks  ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ocelot Emerson is the freakish result of a mad scientist's experiment gone horribly wrong. Born half magnificent cat, half malicious human, Ocie escaped from the secret International Prison For Wayward Creatures, and into a deep dark woods, only to be captured by a pack of ravenous ghost wolves. In a stroke of good fortune, the Great Spirit Wolves set aside their natural disdain for all things feline and accepted the cat person into their pack, where they taught Ocie how to hunt and tell bizarre yet heartwarming tales. Bertie’s Book of Spooky Wonders is Ocelot’s first novel aimed at feral and phenomenally gifted children. That means you, kid!
  THE WICKED TREE, a MG dark fantasy that will appeal to fans of Jonathan Auxier’s THE NIGHT GARDENER and Mary Downing Hahn’s TOOK. If you love SERAFINA AND THE BLACK CLOAK, then THE WICKED TREE is for you!  The Wicked Tree by Kristin Thorsness Publication Date: October 8, 2019 | Publisher: Month9Books SYNOPSIS: Deep in the woods, a gnarled tree grows. Its thick, black trunk twists angrily up into the night sky. Held in place by the magic of a long-ago patriarch, it has waited centuries to lure a descendant into its trap. When Tavorian Kreet and his mom move in with his great-grandmother, Tav is forbidden to go into the woods on the estate. But like most eleven-year-olds, he just can't resist. After secretly exploring the woods, Tav begins having dreams about a supernatural tree. Soon, the dreams change from pleasant to dark and menacing. On a dare, Tav ventures farther into the woods with his new friend, Harper. There, they meet a mysterious, mute boy named Edward who lives in a decrepit cabin nearby. Afraid, and unable to speak, Edward scrawls "Wicked Tree" on the ground. Determined to help Edward, Tav enlists Harper, and they search the estate for clues to Edward’s identity and how to help him. With Harper's help, Tav pieces together the Kreet family history and discovers an ancient curse. If Tav wants to save his friends and family, he must go into the heart of the woods, find the Wicked Tree, and confront a most evil magic. Link to Goodreads | ~ Purchase Link Google Play | BAM | Chapters | Indies | Amazon | B&N | Kobo | TBD | iBooks  About the Author Kristin Thorsness is a former 5th and 6th grade teacher who lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, their son and daughter, and two spoiled dogs. She likes dark chocolate, strong coffee, and creepy stories that keep her up reading late into the night. For more info or to get in touch, visit her online at www.kristinthorsness.com . Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads    The Secret of the Sacred Scarab (The Chronicles of the Stone #1) by Fiona Ingram Published December 14th 2016 | 324 pages SYNOPSIS: 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. Only when the evil Dr. Faisal Khalid shows a particular interest in the cousins and their scarab, do the boys realise they are in terrible danger. Justin and Adam embark upon the adventure of a lifetime, taking them down the Nile and across the harsh desert in their search for the legendary tomb of the Scarab King, an ancient Egyptian ruler. They are plunged into a whirlpool of hazardous and mysterious events when Dr. Khalid kidnaps them. They survive terrifying dangers in a hostile environment (such as a giant cobra, as well as sinking sand), pursued by enemies in their quest to solve the secret of the sacred scarab. 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. They must also learn more about the ancient Seven Stones of Power and the mysterious Shemsu-Hor. With just their wits, courage, and each other, the boys manage to survive … only to find that the end of one journey is the beginning of another! Book bonus includes a Readers’ Guide to Ancient Egypt for young explorers, plus hand-drawn pictures from Adam’s journal of what the cousins saw in Egypt.  The Search for the Stone of Excalibur(The Chronicles of the Stone #2) by Fiona Ingram Published October 2nd 2014 by Smashwords Edition SYNOPSIS: 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 archeologists believe belonged to King Arthur: Excalibur. However, their long-standing 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? Join Justin and Adam as they search not only for the second Stone of Power, but also for the Scroll of the Ancients, a mysterious document that holds important clues to the Seven Stones of Power. As their adventure unfolds, they learn many things and face dangers that make even their perils in Egypt look tame. And how annoying for them that their tag-along companion, Kim, seems to have such good ideas when they are stumped.  The Temple of the Crystal Timekeeper (The Chronicles of the Stone #3) by Fiona Ingram Published November 17th 2017 by Bublish Incorporated ISBN: 1946229466 (ISBN13: 9781946229465) | Paperback, 318 pages SYNOPSIS: 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. Of course, their old adversary Dr. Khalid is close behind as the kids press on in search of the lost city of stone gods. But he is not the worst of their problems. This time Adam will clash with a terrible enemy who adopts the persona of an evil Aztec god, Tezcatlipoca, and is keen to revive the ancient tradition of human sacrifice. Adam, Justin, and Tukum must play a dreadful ball game of life and death and maybe survive. Will they emerge alive from the jungle? Will Dr. Khalid find the third Stone of Power before they do?
The Secret of the Sacred Scarab - Fiona Ingram Truly a wonderful adventure. I can totally understand why this story received so many awards. I learned so much about Ancient Egypt. This story is a wealth of historical information. It was hard for me to put the book down after I started reading. Ms Ingram did a fabulous job of putting a great story together with so much history and adventure. The characters are well-developed. I enjoyed getting to know each one of them. I could actually picture myself there with them in their travels. I highly recommend this story to others. Middle school age children will love it. I give this a literary rating of 5/5  The Search for The Stone of Excalibur - Fiona Ingram As with The Secret of The Sacred Scarab, this was an incredible adventure. It is set in Britain. The history in this story is exceptional. I enjoyed reading it so much. The cover and the title of the book are a good match for the story. The characters are well-developed. I enjoyed getting to know each one of them. The cousins are so different but work together so well. I also loved Billy and Serias in this story. I highly recommend this story to others. Middle school age children will love it. I give this a literary rating of 5/5  The Temple of the Crystal Timekeeper - Fiona Ingram With each story in this series I think the next one can't be as good as the previous one until I start reading and realize that it is as exciting as the last one I read. This story is set in the jungles of Mexico. A wonderful, exciting adventure with lots of interesting history. It's the perfect mixture of fantasy and reality of past times in history. The characters are well-developed. I enjoyed getting to know each one of them. The cousins are a great team. The people they meet in the jungles are wonderful characters and fun to read about. The cover and the title of the book are a good match for the story. I highly recommend this story to others. Middle school age children will love it. I give this a literary rating of 5/5   AUTHOR BIO:
I can’t remember NOT having a book in my hand. My schoolmates called me a bookworm, and nothing’s changed since then. I was brought up on the children’s classics because my parents are also avid readers. My earliest story-telling talents came to the fore when, from the age of ten, I entertained my three younger brothers and their friends with serialized tales of children undertaking dangerous and exciting exploits, which they survived through courage and ingenuity (of course!). Ghosts, vampires, werewolves, and skeletons leaping out of coffins were hot favourites in the cast of characters that populated “Gruesome Gables” where all these adventures were played out. We also acted out the stories for my long-suffering parents, whom I see now were remarkably tolerant of my budding thespian and script-writing talents! I graduated from the University of Natal, Durban, South Africa, with a double first in my B.A. (French & Drama). After completing my Honors in Drama at Natal, I then went to the University of the Witwatersrand to do my Masters degree in French-African literature. I also studied drama at The Drama Studio in London and mime at L’Ecole Jacques le Coq in Paris. Upon my return to South Africa, I immersed myself in teaching drama at community centres, and became involved in producing community and grassroots theatre with local playwrights and performers in Natal for several years. A move to Johannesburg took me in a new direction—that of journalism. I have written freelance for the last fifteen years on everything from serial killers to relationship advice (making me a popular dinner guest to revive any flagging conversations). Writing a children’s book—The Secret of the Sacred Scarab—was an unexpected step, inspired by a recent trip to Egypt. The tale of the sacred scarab began life as a little anecdotal tale for my 2 nephews (then 10 and 12), who had accompanied me on the Egyptian trip. We had a marvellous time and it truly was the catalyst in changing my career. This short story grew into a children’s book, the first in the adventure series, Chronicles of the Stone. After the usual spate of rejections from snobby (British) agents, which I believe it every writer’s baptism of fire, I discovered America and made the decision to be published there. The book has done well there, even though the young heroes are South African, and has already garnered two impressive fiction nominations. I’m already immersed in the next book in the series—The Search for the Stone of Excalibur—a huge treat for young King Arthur fans (and older ones as well). Although I do not have children of my own, I have an adopted teenage foster child, from an underprivileged background who is just discovering the joys of reading for pleasure. My interests include literature, art, theatre, collecting antiques, animals, music, movies, and wondering when I am going to be the next J.K. Rowling.   Bertie's Book of Spooky Wonders by Ocelot Emerson Publication Date: October 15, 2019 | Publisher: Tantrum Books SYNOPSIS: Twelve-year-old Bertie Blount is great at causing trouble. When she's forced to leave behind her dad and friends in North Carolina so her mom can marry the most boring optometrist in the world, Bertie has a chance at a fresh start. But when Bertie arrives in Pennsylvania, she doesn’t just bring trouble; she brings disaster. In a moment of anger, Bertie unwittingly triggers an accident that puts her future stepbrother in a coma. Broken and desperate to make things right, Bertie prays for a miracle. Instead, the universe gives her a pair of supernatural sunglasses, a wise-cracking doppleganger, and a terrifying ghost that sends Bertie on a dangerous mission to find the one thing that just might save her stepbrother’s life. Add to Goodreads | Pre-Order Link: Amazon  ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ocelot Emerson is the freakish result of a mad scientist's experiment gone horribly wrong. Born half magnificent cat, half malicious human, Ocie escaped from the secret International Prison For Wayward Creatures, and into a deep dark woods, only to be captured by a pack of ravenous ghost wolves. In a stroke of good fortune, the Great Spirit Wolves set aside their natural disdain for all things feline and accepted the cat person into their pack, where they taught Ocie how to hunt and tell bizarre yet heartwarming tales. Bertie’s Book of Spooky Wonders is Ocelot’s first novel aimed at feral and phenomenally gifted children. That means you, kid!  Giveaway Info: One (1) winner will win a digital copy of any previously published Month9Books title of their choosing To enter, click on the Rafflecopter link below. RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY!    Book Details: Silver Batal and the Water Dragon Races (Water Dragon Races, #1) by K.D. Halbrook Published by: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) | Publication date: June 4th 2019 Genres: Fantasy, Middle-Grade Synopsis: Set in a vivid, Arab-inspired world filled with friendly and fearsome water dragons, K.D. Halbrook’s Silver Batal and the Water Dragon Races is a middle-grade fantasy adventure, with illustrations by Ilse Gort, that’s perfect for fans of Tui T. Sutherland, Sayantani DasGupta, and Roshani Chokshi. Silver’s dreams of becoming a legendary water dragon racer come true when she befriends a rare dragon that can swim and fly. Thirteen-year-old Silver Batal calls the desert home, but her heart belongs to the waters. Although she’s expected to become a jeweler like her father, Silver harbors a secret and forbidden wish to race water dragons. Destiny comes calling when her friendship with a mysterious old woman leads her to Hiyyan, a baby dragon that can swim and fly. Risking everything, Silver, Hiyyan, and her resourceful cousin Brajon set off across the desert to join the legendary races in the royal city. But the road to Calidia is filled with danger, and the trio must band together as they encounter ferocious cave beasts, clever desert foxes, and cutthroat competition. Goodreads | Purchase: Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo |  AUTHOR BIO: K.D. Halbrook is an author of Middle Grade and Young Adult novels (as Kristin Halbrook). Her debut Middle Grade book, SMOKE AND MIRRORS (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books) was called "captivating," "enchanting," and "artful" in trade reviews and, in a starred review, the BCCB said, "The novel's wistful prose and a relatable search for the Light will be rewarding for readers who can see in the Smoke any number of metaphors for the things that haunt us." K.D.'s next Middle Grade is the first in an exciting series: SILVER BATAL AND THE WATER DRAGON RACES, releasing in June, 2019 from Macmillan/Henry Holt BFYR. K.D. is a graduate of the University of Washington and lives with her family and floofy goldendoodle in Seattle. When not writing and sharing her love of books with readers, she enjoys cooking and baking, running and triathlon training, yoga, gardening, painting, hiking, and travel. She would love a dragon that swims AND flies. Author links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM |  GIVEAWAY! Blitz-wide giveaway (US/CAN)
   Jagger Jones and the Mummy’s Ankh by Malayna Evans Publication Date: May 28, 2019 Publisher: Month9Books Jagger Jones is a whiz kid from Chicago’s South Side. Ask him anything about Ancient Egypt, and Jagger can fill hours describing all that he knows. But when he and his precocious little sister Aria fall more than three thousand years back in time to the court of Amarna, Egypt, Jagger discovers a truth that rocks his world: books don’t teach you everything there is to know. Mummies, pyramids, and cool hieroglyphics make awesome movie props, but the ancient court of Amarna is full of over- sized scorpions, magical amulets, and evil deities determined to scare unwanted visitors away. If Jagger and Aria are to return safely home, they must find nine soul-infested gemstones, defeat an evil general, save the royal family, and figure out how to rescue themselves! Armed only with Jagger’s knowledge of history and a few modern objects mined from his pockets and Aria’s sparkly purse, the siblings have exactly one week to solve supernatural riddles and rescue the royal family. If they can pull it off, Jagger Jones just might return to Chicago a hero. Link to Goodreads | ~ Purchase Links: Goggle Play | BAM | Chapters | Indies | Amazon | B&N | Kobo | TBD EXCERPT FROM CHAPTER SIX: Dressed to … kidnap? “Are we getting makeovers?” Aria squealed happily, hugging her purse to her chest. Jagger moaned as Tatia draped a dress over his sister. The answer was obvious. Aria was thrilled with the white gown and elaborate jewels the princess gave her, even happier when she got made up to look like an ancient Egyptian princess. Things got iffy when Tatia wanted to shave Aria’s head. Aria didn’t care if kids in Egypt were bald. She was dedicated to her thick curls. After a short but frightening stare-down, Tatia caved to Aria’s will, just as Mom had every time she and Aria disagreed on her clothing. The princess braided Aria’s hair into cornrows and placed a blue and gold headband on her head. His sister looked like a pint-sized Cleopatra. “No.” Jagger shook his head when Tatia turned to him and lifted a blade to his hair. “I’ve been growing my ‘fro. You’re not touching it.” “You’ll draw unwanted attention with that hair,” the princess insisted. “I’m used to that.” He backed away from the princess and her blade. “We know how to blend in. We’re from Chicago.” He paused. “It’s, you know, diverse.” Tatia cocked her head to the side. “We’re biracial,” he explained. “Our mom is black, and our dad is white.” The princess shrugged. “Your hair is fine, Jagger Jones. But it’s not long enough to braid. We must cut it.” “I don’t want to cut it.” He put his hands on his head. The last time someone had suggested Jagger cut his hair, he was sitting on a stage with five other kids, staring out at an audience. A guy from the opposing debate team used Jagger’s hair in his argument, comparing the government’s need to trim its “out of control” budget with Jagger’s supposed need for a haircut. Jagger never forgot how it felt to be singled out for something that was a part of him in front of all those people. Kids snickered, judges wiggled in discomfort, and Grams sagged with sadness. Mom looked like she wanted to go all mama bear on the kid. But it was Gramps’ reaction that steeled Jagger’s spine. Gramps smiled. And that smile gave Jagger exactly what he needed in that moment. His hair might not have looked like that of the other.  ABOUT the AUTHOR: Malayna Evans is the author of the middle grade time travel series, Jagger Jones. Malayna earned her Ph.D. in Egyptology from the University of Chicago and has used her background to craft a tale loaded with historical details, attested ancient actors, and a magical adventure full of gods, mummies and wriggling creatures. Malayna enjoys a busy life of reading, writing, and playing in Oak Park, Illinois with her two kids, a spoiled rescue dog named Caesar, and a dwarf hamster named Pedicure. Instagram | Twitter | FB | Website  Giveaway Info: One (1) winner will win a Starbucks gift card To enter, click on the Rafflecopter Giveaway link below. RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY!   Book Details: Book Title: Free Pizza by G.C. McRae Category: Middle-Grade Fiction, 360 pages | Genre: Humorous Fiction Publisher: MacDonald Warne Media | Release date: May 1, 2019 Format available for review: print & ebook Tour dates: May 1 to 17, 2019 Content Rating: PG (No sex or drugs, occasional profanity.) Book Description: Brian McSpadden is always hungry. Does he have a disease? Worms? Does it have something to do with his being adopted? He spends his days at his crazy friend Danny’s house, hoping for snacks, but nothing seems to fill the void. Then Brian receives a mysterious birthday card that says, Free Pizza. He soon discovers the card has nothing to do with food and everything to do with the big questions in his life: where did I come from, why did my mother give me up and is there anyone out there who will like me the way I am? Buy the Book: Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble Add to Goodreads REVIEW by LAWonder10: This is a good book portraying what many adolescence experience. It is, primarily, about a twelve-year-old boy and his friend and the mayhem they experience one summer. It is also about insecurities and "finding oneself". Brian has an additional challenge since he is adopted. However, this story strongly suggests each individual has issues each has to overcome. Brian receives a Free Pizza card on his birthday that is not free pizza at all. This is just one event in a very confusing, yet spectacular, time period surrounding his twelfth birthday. It is surely one he will remember! This story is well-written, with humor, action adventure and mystery included within iuts pages. However, I would not recommend it to those I am close to because of the occasional profanity, I feel, ruined it for older elementary and young adult reading. Although profanity is ramped in society, I feel it should not be encourage, especially among children. It is a poor use of literary content. The characters were developed well and the scenes were easily visualized. The Book Title and Cover were eye-catching. I offer a Three and a Half Stars rating. *This book was gifted me with no requirement for a positive review. This is my honest review.  GUEST POST: Wiggle Room by G.C. McRae When I do author visits to schools, kids and teachers often ask about my process. And I wish I had a straight forward answer for them. In planning for writing fiction, I never seem to get it just right. I either plan too much or too little. If anybody saw the dumb corners I paint myself into, they’d wonder how I ever got a single chapter out into the world. Obviously, you can’t plan everything. You still have to leave a little creative wiggle room for the actual writing process. But the wiggle room is my downfall. My brain takes any hint of freedom as license to deviate from all my careful preparations. I think I know where I’m going. But the truth is, I have flung myself into a foreign country. Things are fine when I’m on the plane and in the taxi. But the moment I step out onto the street, I notice there are wild dogs peeing on lampposts. Street vendors are trying to sell me monkey brains on a stick. And oh, look, I’ve left my wallet in the departing taxi. To get myself back on track, I think, I just need to write a tighter outline. Check it more often, put myself on a shorter chain. Well, with my latest book, Free Pizza, the chain was far too short. The outline I wrote was so detailed it was impossible to deviate from it without ruining the whole thing. The book gave me a cramp every time I tried to work on it. While I was shaking my cortices out, waiting for the cramp to ease, I started on another book, Kana and the Red Pilot. I know, I thought, I won’t write an outline at all! I’ll just have fun wiggling all over the computer screen! Things went well for a hundred pages. I had a great time breaking rules, introducing characters on the fly, abusing the rules of grammar and storytelling for dramatic effect. But when I wrote a crazy scene without any lead-up or precedent, I had to call time out. Why had I written this? What might happen next to justify it? That’s when an outline became my best friend - in order to save my characters the embarrassment of having their impassioned conversations and tender moments obliterated with the click of the Delete button. After Kana, I returned to Free Pizza, determined to fix it. And the only way to fix it was going to involve some bolt-cutters. The first thing I did was chop out half of the story. It was my favorite half, but I consoled myself by thinking I could use it for a sequel later, so, no loss. With a simpler arc, I now had the wiggle room I needed to flesh out the characters and situations in a light-hearted way. Whew! Catastrophe averted. Story completed. And, I must say, done far better than my outlining brain ever imagined. So how much outline do you need? How much wiggle room? The answers seem to be different for each book. And though I resent what seems like wasted time running after taxis and working things out to the last detail, somehow things always seem to work out.   Meet the Author: G.C. McRae is the bestselling author of two young adult novels, three illustrated children's books and a collection of original fairy tales. His writing is fall-down funny, even when the theme is darker than a coal-miner’s cough. McRae reads to anybody at any time, in person or online, for free, which probably explains why he meets so many people and sells so many books. In his latest work, Free Pizza, McRae spins the highly emotional themes from his decidedly unfunny childhood into a brilliantly comic yarn. After being given up for adoption by his teenage mom back when single girls were forced to hide unplanned pregnancies, his adoptive parents didn’t exactly keep him under the stairs but, well, let's just say, there were spiders. A lot has changed since then. McRae’s own children have now grown and he runs a small farm with his wife, who is herself an award-winning writer. CONNECT WITH THE AUTHOR: Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ LibraryThing  Win... 1 of 15 prizes from the author of “Free Pizza”. Two winners will receive a print book. Three winners will receive a print book + $20 Amazon GC and 10 winners will receive an ebook copy of Free Pizza (open to USA & Canada / 15 winners total! (ends May 25, 2019) Th Enter, Click on the Rafflecopter link Below: RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWEAY!  |
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