Loving You by Jessica Tilles

LOVING YOU BY JESSICA TILLES NATIONWIDE RELEASE—SEPTEMBER 20, 2018!

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY! FREE SHIPPING ON ALL PRE-ORDERS UNTIL SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

 

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Sixteen years ago, Julian knew he would marry Grace the first day they met. He imagined living and loving his Gracie forever, never anticipating the unexpected would occur. Now, Julian’s struggle to come to terms with the inevitable battle of losing the love of his life pushes them both beyond physical and emotional pain.

Loving You is a gut-wrenching story of unconditional love that shows how one can go beyond living for the moment to enable a deeper value of an innate love beyond the surface.

Read Chapter 1 AND Pre-order your copy today at:  http://jessicatilles.com/loving-you

 

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EXCERPT: Loving You by Jessica Tilles

The loud, beeping alarm clock jarred Julian Winters out of a peaceful slumber, as he smacked the off button. Waking up was no longer a pleasure. Rolling over onto his back, he blinked, closed his eyes, and blinked again. Streaks of sunlight penetrated the window, blinding him. He rose up, dragged his feet off the bed, and rubbed the sleep from his eyes with his knuckles. He stretched his arms above his head, arched his back, and yawned. He looked over his shoulder, closed his eyes, and inhaled. He could still smell Moonlight Path, her favorite Bath & Body Works fragrance. He missed her so, as he rested his elbows on his knees and cradled his head in his hands. His throat tightened, nostrils burned, and eyes welled, a feeling to which he had become accustomed. Squeezing his head, he raised it as his fingertips dragged down his face, caressing his chin. He rolled his eyes upward.

I don’t understand why any of this is happening, Julian thought, massaging the tension from the back of his neck. He remembered the words his mother spoke to him as a young boy whenever he was overwhelmed by impatience. “Not everything is meant for you to understand, son. When God is ready to tell you, He will. You must have patience.”

“I guess He’s not ready and I’m running out of patience,” he mumbled.

Julian stood and arched his back. With his hands on his hips, he stretched from side to side, a ritual he performed every morning. He padded his bare feet across the room, into the master bathroom, and into the water closet. He didn’t close the door before aiming for the commode, but she was not there to gripe. He missed that, too. He turned on the shower. As he pulled his T-shirt over his head, the landline rang. In a swift motion, he dropped the shirt to the floor and rushed into the bedroom, rounding the bed to the nightstand to answer the phone.

 

The Other Side of Cancer: Living Life with My Dying Sister by Annette Leeds

The Other Side of Cancer: Living Life with My Dying Sister by Annette Leeds is a passionate story of two sisters and their extraordinary bond and friendship reignited in the face of cancer. Read more: https://find1cure.com/about and share with friends.

 

The Other Side of Cancer: Living Life with My Dying Sister

From the Author/Sister Annette Leeds

In January 2016, an unbiased cancer claimed the life of my sister, Theresa. Memories are all I have now—some are so painful to recall, while others bring me tremendous laughter. Even though I know she isn’t physically with me anymore, when I think of her, I feel her presence so deep within my heart. When a chill runs through me, or a warm, loving feeling, I pray it is my big sister and not my imagination getting the best of me.

The crystal vase she loved so much is now where her ashes rest. As I pass the open door of her bedroom, there is no longer any sign of her, only an empty room she used to call home. I try to find comfort from my sorrow by lying on the floor in her room, staring up at the ceiling, hoping she sends me some sign that she is okay.

There are those days when I think I won’t be able to get through another day without her, avoiding those closest to me, angry with myself that I couldn’t save her. It is difficult to wake up each day without some thought of her, and the one question that plagues me: Why did it have to take her from me? I long for a time when the sadness subsides, but with that comes the reality that she is no longer here, making our family incomplete.

Growing up and into adulthood, we went through life protecting each other from harm, and yet, I was unable to protect her from this callous creature we call cancer. I will no longer have my sister, with whom I shared so many great times. The inside stories that only she and I understood have vanished, leaving me without my partner in crime.

I used my journal to shield myself from the pain. Documenting our time together, knowing when she was gone I had captured her last months in black and white. She showed me the meaning of bravery and strength. Her days were full and she embraced life and lived it while dying. There were so many times I was truly amazed at how gracefully she accepted what might lie ahead for her, as if someone had let her in on that big secret we all wonder about: Where do we go when we leave here?

She always believed that if your dreams didn’t scare you, they weren’t big enough. I know she is watching and smiling, helping me through my heartache with her infectious laughter and unwavering courage.

 

Purchase The Other Side of Cancer: Living Life with My Dying Sister by Annette Leeds
https://www.amazon.com/Other-Side-Cancer-Living-Sister/dp/0692174672/

FAM014000 Family & Relationships: Death, Grief, Bereavement
SEL010000 Self-Help: Death, Grief, Bereavement
BIO026000 Biography & Autobiography: Personal Memoirs

 

Decades: A Journey of African American Romance Series

Decades: A Journey of African American Romance Series is amazing. This series consists of 12 books, each set in one of 12 decades between 1900 and 2010. Each story focuses on the romance between African American protagonists, but also embraces the African American experience within that decade.

DECADES was inspired by a Harlequin series of ten romances that centered only white stories. Wayne Adrian Jordan felt it was time for the stories of African-American women to be told. Continue the journey with these compelling, unforgettable stories.

* List of books published by October, 2018 *

 

A Delicate Affair (Decades: A Journey of African-American Romance Book 1) by Lindsay Evans. Link: http://a.co/d/gNFJF0b

 

A Secret Desire (Decades: A Journey of African-American Romance Book 2) by Kaia Danielle. Link: http://a.co/d/am3y2Lx

 

Love’s Serenade (Decades: A Journey of African American Romance Book 3) by Sheryl Lister. Link: http://a.co/d/3rBBbUd

 

The Art of Love (Decades: A Journey of African-American Romance Book 4) by Suzette D. Harrison. Link: http://a.co/d/hDXRRhc

 

Love’s Sweet Melody (Decades: A Journey of African American Romance Book 5) by Kianna Alexander. Link: http://a.co/d/ituOsem

 

Pride and Passion (Decades: A Journey of African-American Romance Book 6) by Carla Buchanan. Link: http://a.co/d/i8RJxaQ

 

Election Day (Decades: A Journey of African American Romance Book 8) by Keith Thomas Walker. Link: http://a.co/d/dyzpVWk

 

Made To Hold You (Decades: A Journey of African American Romance Book 9) by Elle Wright. Link: http://a.co/d/bcxegAM

 

Thug Love (Decades: A Journey Of African-American Romance Book 10) by Zuri Day. Released Oct 1, 2018. Link: http://a.co/d/iF3RtcD

 

Worth The Ride (Gumbo Love Book 4) by Ann Clay

Catch up on the Brooks Family with the GUMBO LOVE Series. The series kicked off with the oldest brother, Travis’s story in Blue Autumn in the Bayou, followed by middle brother, Michael in The Perfect Blend. The last and final chapter of the Brooks siblings end with the youngest, Trisha Brooks, as she heads off to Texas in Worth The Ride.  

Trish Brooks shocks her family when she jets off to Texas to pursue a veterinary degree. The New Orleans City girl in a small town is not the only adjustment she makes. How about trading her Stelios for worn cowgirl boots, or even better, falling into the arms of the handsome rancher, Denver Baldwin. He’s dangerously handsome and at first, wants nothing to do with her.

Denver Baldwin is put off by the mouthy, know-it-all city girl he finds mucking his barn. Yet, when he decides she doesn’t have a clue, the flame she ignites has him changing his tune. And just as things heat up, Trish’s three linebacker brothers challenges his worth. For Trish he will wrestle with any bull, any day.

The heat of Texas can’t contend with the fire brewing between Trish and Denver, and their journey, although rocky at first, ends ups a voyage neither will forget. A bumpy journey turns city lights to moonlights, and a love worth the ride.

Purchase Gumbo Love (4 Book Romance Series) by Ann Clay
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CWW3BY8/

 

 

What’s in a Name? by Alice Wootson

Genius graduate student, Takeem El, is picked up by agents from The National Protection Operations because his name matches one on their new list. They question him at their location, fail to get information and decide to move him to headquarters. Members of an extremist group attack them, kill the agents and take Takeem. A further check shows Takeem is not the one on the list. Kelli Malone and Jake Landis, special government agents, are assigned to rescue him and apprehend the terrorists.

 

Reviews: What’s in a Name by Alice Wootson

“The action in What’s in a Name? is fast paced and the tension high, as the two agent juggle personal and mission-related issues. All in all a fun and clever read for both action and romance lovers.” –Reader R.M.

“The plot is strong with a number of intriguing subplots, and the characters well developed and charming. It’s a fun read and the romance gives it an added appeal.” — Reader T.J.

 

 

Chapter Excerpt: What’s in a Name? by Alice Wootson

Chapter One

It was a typical Friday night in the Howe University’s library. The building was quiet as only a nearly empty library would be, but if it was as noisy as a schoolyard at recess, the young man huddled over a book wouldn’t have noticed.

Hours had passed and he looked as if he could spend many more in the same position.

“Okay, Takeem. Time to stop for the night.”

Takeem looked at the librarian standing beside the table, then glanced at the empty tables around him. As usual he was the last student in the building.

“Okay, Mrs. Taylor.” He closed the book and moved it to the center of the table with three others. “Are you going to leave these here for me for tomorrow?” He grinned at her.

“I should.” She smiled back. “It would save me from having to shelve them again. You’ve had these same books for two days, now. Something giving you trouble?” She asked as he stood and stretched.

“No, I just want my semester project to be perfect.”

“Don’t you always?” She shook her head. “You know there is no such thing as perfection.”

“No, but it is something we should all strive for,” he answered as he gathered his things. They both laughed at the exchange they had many times. Neither noticed the man who paused outside the large front window, then continued down the street.

“I’m not trying to put myself out of a job, but you do know you can find a lot of information using the computer,” she said as they walked to the door.

“I know, but many important details are only in reference books and some of those are obscure.”

“You’ve discovered the librarians’ secret, my young friend. That’s how we make sure libraries don’t become obsolete.” She laughed. “I don’t know why I mentioned computers to you. I’ve heard that what you can do with technology is close to the perfection you’re seeking in your project.”

“That’s not true. There is no such thing as finished when it comes to finding out what computers can do. By the time a new one is on the assembly line, something new is already in the developmental stage.”

“I’ll have to take your word for that. All I know about computers and modern technology is what I need to know to function successfully in here. I’m more comfortable trusting things I can see and touch. Like books.” She stopped at the door. “See you tomorrow.”

She watched him leave, then locked the door behind him. She smiled as she thought of her young friend who was destined for success.

 

Border Love by Alice Wootson

Danger hits when least expected…so does love.

Border Patrol Officer, BROOKE HUDSON, is assigned to Brownsville, Texas on the Mexican border. She’s troubled by sending all undocumented immigrants back. She seeks guidance from God in all things.

DARIEN MCKEE is reassigned to Brownsville from Yuma after he almost kills a driver who left a truckload of undocumented immigrants to die in an isolated area. Darien has given up on God.

Brooke and Darien are assigned as partners. A relationship starts to develop when a bomb destroys headquarters and bombs target other government offices. Brooke and Darien are assigned new partners, but continue to share meals. The attraction grows.

Brooke’s new partner, Alonzo, has trouble following protocol and gets them both shot while on duty.

Darien hears about it and rushes to the area where officials are investigating. Brooke is missing. They learn she was taken across the border. Darien is determined to find her. In desperation, he turns back to God. Then continues his search. He goes across the border on his own.

Together they face trouble and triumph over it. Brooke and Darien realize that love through God can provide strength to go on despite adversity.

 

Reviews: Border Love by Alice Wootson

 

“This was an intense read! From the moment I picked this book up, I was hooked. A wonderful blend of romance, action and inspiration. The setting too was unique, the border agent angle was a clever twist on the classic romantic suspense. Great characters, well written, fantastic story. What else is there to say?” –Read R.J.

 

“Alice Wootson writes a compelling page turner in Border Love. The two main characters, Brooke and Darien, are Border Patrol Agents in Brownsville, Texas. They each come from other assignments and want to do a good job regardless of being haunted by their past.” –Reader V.

 

 

Border Danger by Alice Wootson

“Danger hits when least expected…so does love….”

Border Patrol Agent, NITA JOHNSON, is partnered with former substitute academy trainer, Agent CRAIG SAWYER, for a special assignment. They will patrol the border in an effort to uncover routes taken by illegals. Several things concern the agency: the routes don’t seem to be randomly selecte and inside information seems to have been used. Some of those apprehended are suspected of being drug-smugglers and terrorists.

Nita and Craig are sent undercover to Mexico to try to discover details. They work with undercover Mexican agents at two locations and the operation succeeds. Drug-smugglers are arrested. Terrorists are apprehended and plots to destroy many United States historical sites are uncovered.

United States citizens involved in other illegal operations are exposed and arrested.

Assignment successful, Nita and Craig can move forward with their personal plans. They love each other and will spend the rest of their lives together.

 

 

Reviews: Border Danger by Alice Wootson

“Ms. Wootson brings a well written suspense novel with an unusual subject. The sights, scenes, and sounds of Mexico and the border area crossing are brought to life with her well defined prose.” —V.C

“This is my first book by Alice Wootson and I loved it. She gives such detail about the border agent lifestyle, training and covert operations that I felt a part of the border patrol. The romance that blossoms between Craig and Nita is gradual yet real. The plot moved quickly and I loved the fact that I didn’t know who the bad guys were but still got a glimpse into their plan. Told in multiple POV’s yet the transitions were seamless.” —N.N. L.

“Border Danger’ is the impressive result of what I assume was a ton of research. The author introduces us to the tough world of training for border patrol agents and the even tougher job they face after graduation. Ms. Wootson avoids engaging in many of the debates over immigration and focuses on the challenges patrol agents face every day. The heroine is strong and determined and cool-headed, the hero is a good and honest man fighting criminals and his own issues. Together they make a powerful team working to keep order on the US-Mexico border.” —A.K.

 

Sassy Sinclair Featured Author at Book Lovers Con

Sassy Sinclair is a featured author at Book Lovers Con in NOLA May 15 – 19, 2019!
Book Lovers Con will take place at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. Registration is open!

Located across from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and minutes from the French Quarter, the Hyatt Regency is the perfect place to bring Book Lovers together in the Big Easy!

More details: https://www.bookloverscon.com/user/1399

 

The Underwoods of Napa Valley Movie

NEW MOVIE COMING SOON! The Underwoods of Napa Valley. You can Own it November 20, 2018. Genre: Urban Romance

The Underwoods of Napa Valley Storyline
Unemployed chef, Briana Rutledge, inherits her grandmother’s cottage in Napa, California. She sets out to turn the cottage into her dream restaurant, but Tiffany Young and her father, restaurateur Nathaniel Young, plot to run Briana out of town.

About the Producer
The Underwood’s of Napa Valley is based on the book “Kenton’s Vintage Affair” which reached #3 on the Amazon Best Sellers list. Janice L. Dennie is an Amazon.com bestselling author of THE UNDERWOODS OF NAPA VALLEY Book Series.

In 2016, Janice L. Dennie threw her hat into the film industry by forming Kente Productions LLC, her independent film company that develops scripts, handles casting and filming.

For more information visit: https://www.maverickentertainment.cc/movies/the-underwoods-of-napa-valley/

 

Nicki Night’s Chandler Series

It Started in Paradise by Nicki Night

Stunning, sensual Puerto Rico is the perfect place to combine business with pleasure. Yet Chloe Chandler can’t indulge her attraction to Donovan Rivers when they cross paths at a convention. Heir to an exclusive Long Island venue, Donovan is vying to host the same A-list gala that her parents’ restaurant hopes to gain. And as events director for her family’s empire, Chloe’s loyalty is being tested by an intense longing for a man who’s determined to win both her…and the client.

An in-demand bachelor who plays by his own rules, Donovan never stops until he gets what he wants. Falling for his beautiful competitor will anger their families, but Chloe has already sacrificed too much to please others. Now Donovan intends to show her everything she’s been missing—including the heat of his embrace. But when the competition comes between them, will their ambitions force them to lose out on love?

 

Desire In a Kiss by Nicki Night

Ambitious, charming and heir to a food empire, Christian Chandler has no problem meeting women. If only more of them could see beyond his family’s fortune… On impulse, he creates a fake dating profile and quickly connects with petite powerhouse Serenity Williams. She’s smart, down-to-earth and ignites his fantasies from their first encounter. He has to tell her who he really is. But how can he admit the truth to a woman for whom honesty is everything?

Serenity has transformed her life—dropping a lying ex and starting her own nonprofit—and is finally ready to date again. Online, “Chris Mullins” is perfect. In real life, he’s even hotter. From extravagant dates to black-tie balls, Serenity’s falling fast…and then devastated to find she’s been taken in by another fraud. To rekindle their trust, Chris must prove that what they share is the deepest passion she’s ever known…

 

It Must Be Love by Nicki Night

Jewel Chandler’s list of boyfriend requirements is extensive—and Sterling Bishop doesn’t meet any of them. Sure, the wealthy businessman is gorgeous, but he also has an ex-wife and a young daughter. Sterling knows he’s the only man for Jewel, and the sexy heiress’s efforts to keep him away only fuels his determination. When steamy days melt into desire-fueled nights, Jewel wonders if he’s truly the one for her.

 

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Undefiled by Raykel Tolson

 

Scriptures teach us that the marriage bed is undefiled, but what could your fiancé or spouse ask you to do in the bedroom that would be a deal breaker?

 

Liz desires to be married, but she chose a man just like her father who lied, cheated and ultimately left his family. After a year of wishing her ex-boyfriend and father of her son would come back, Liz is devastated to learn he is engaged. Despite the difficult news, Liz is determined to press forward and find true love and eventually marry.

Anthony is a successful man living a dream life and happily married only to his career. As a top fashion photographer, he has no trouble keeping many of the world’s top models in his bed, but his heart is a different matter. Anthony meets Liz and is instantly attracted to her. The feeling is mutual and the two fall in love quickly.

After a blissful courtship. Liz and Anthony’s “happily ever after” is threatened by one of Anthony’s disgruntled ex-lovers. When Liz learns the truth about Anthony the night before their wedding, she must decide if she is capable of forgiveness and love deep enough to accept Anthony for who he is.

 

Pickup your copy of Undefiled by Raykel Tolson

Genre – Romance   |   Amazon:  https://amzn.to/2PFLrAy

Listen to audio introduction: http://www.audioacrobat.com/note/ClLLHvNX

About the Author

Raykel Tolson wrote her first book in the 5 th grade and gifted it to her grandmother. The budding writer titled her book The Outsider. It was the story of a little girl trying to make friends at her new school. In 2014, she made a choice to focus on writing professionally and published her first book, Single and Saved.

Raykel has had devotions published in the Women of Color Devotional Bible and has self-published books that that enlighten, encourage and entertain. She writes both fiction and non-fiction books. She says her nonfiction books are classified as Christian self-help books. In the case of her new release, Undefiled, she says it should be considered African American Inspirational Romance because the characters are flawed, like everyday people. They are Christians and believe in God, but they also curse, drink alcohol, or smoke, and they have sex. Many devout Christians don’t want to read about people like that, so she respects their choices.

Raykel has a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy from Florida A & M University, a Juris Doctorate from Florida State University College of Law. She also has a master’s degree in counseling from Capella University. Raykel has worked as a family and criminal attorney, a pharmacist, a professor, and workshop presenter.

In her spare time, Raykel volunteers as a mediator for Centinela Youth Services in Los Angeles. She uses restorative justice principles to encourage youth offenders to repair the harm that their offense created in the community. Raykel is also a mentor to young airmen at the Los Angeles Air Force Base. Those airmen encouraged her to start her YouTube channel, Ask Auntie Ray so that she could answer their questions.

The 40-something year old author has one adult son. Raykel was born and raised in a suburb of St, Louis, but has lived and worked in Los Angeles for more than a decade.  Raykel considers herself a God-loving, bible-believing, church going Christian on a mission to help people to know God as love and not judgment.

 

Follow Raykel Tolson

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RaykelT

Website:  https://www.raykeltolson.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/booksbyray

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/raykeltolson

 

 

Maxine’s New Job by Dr. Lynda J. Mubarak

2018 Christian Literacy Awards: Maxine’s New Job Nomination

Maxine’s New Job has been nominated to receive the prestigious “Henri Award” at the 2018 Christian Literacy Awards for outstanding literacy work in the Children’s Books division.

 

Maxine Hill is an inquisitive fourth grade student who loves to read, work crossword puzzles, visit her best friend, Amanda Grayson, and play with her cat, Amos. Maxine is also on a quest to find out why her neighbor, Mrs. Sullivan, is acting so weird. Mrs. Sullivan is always outside sitting on the front porch with her two rescue dogs or working in her flower bed. However, she seems to get very nervous when Maxine talks to her about everything. What is going on with this lady? Is she a robot spy? Is she an alien? Is she working for the CIA? Follow Maxine Hill as she solves the case of the strange neighbor!

ORDER BOOKS FROM BARNES & NOBLE
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/maxines-new-job-lynda-jones-mubarak/1128565433

 

Maxine’s New Job by Dr. Lynda J. Mubarak
Audio introduction: http://www.audioacrobat.com/note/CwnKcptX

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BOOK REVIEWS

Maxine’s New Job: #RWYK Great Read Certified

5.0 out of 5 stars Reviewed by Elizabeth Wroten, @ Home Librarian Book Reviews

 

We’re back in the world of Shorty and the Sullivans, this time across the street with Maxine Hill,  a precocious fourth grader. Maxine is an adorable girl with big glasses and a big heart. Her family is gentle too and I enjoyed meeting them. The illustrations have a cozy feeling to them as we see into the places in Maxine’s world.

The book is definitely on the long side for a picture book. Obviously this isn’t unheard of, I simply tend to prefer keeping picture books shorter and saving more complex stories for transitional chapter books, but that’s totally a personal preference. I think the story and length does make the book a better fit for older audiences, first or second grade and up. If you could get your third and fourth graders into it, it would be great!

From a social justice standpoint I thought this book really tackled some interesting problems. Maxine and her family support being involved in community and helping out how and when they can. They volunteer at a food pantry once a month and started to do so after Maxine noticed an unhoused man and began asking questions. (Side note, I wish the book had called him unhoused instead of homeless.) I really love that her family is so willing to engage in this way and the way Mubarak has written it, it comes across as genuine and sincere instead of didactic.

It’s this ethic of service that leads Maxine to help Mrs. Sullivan, her neighbor across the street, solve a problem. It turns out Mrs Sullivan is functionally illiterate, largely because she struggled so much in school learning to read, never got the help she needed to be successful, and then dropped out of school. I have never seen a picture book that takes on this issue, but it isn’t an uncommon one. I know my library system has a program for adults who are illiterate or need more reading instruction and it isn’t the only program like that out there by any means. It might not be super realistic that a fourth grader is going to help a woman with learning disabilities to learn to read, but I love books that take a positive stance on children stepping in and stepping up, even if it’s not totally plausible. I think it’s a representation of sorts. It shows kids they can help and puts faith in them. No need to squash their optimism and willingness to do good. If anything I think it encourages them to stay engaged and find ways they can help even if it doesn’t look exactly the way they first think it will.

5.0 out of 5 stars Review written by Jedlie

Maxine’s New Job written by Dr. Lynda J. Mubarak and illustrated by Adua Hernandez introduces us to a young girl named Maxine Hill who loves to read, work crossword puzzles, visit her best friend, Amanda Grayson, and play with her cat, Amos. Maxine is a fourth-grade student who is full of curiosity and wants to take up a career of forensic scientist when she grows up. Maxine is concerned by her neighbour Mrs. Sullivan’s strange behavior and is determined to track down the cause. She embarks on a fact-finding mission and finds out that Mrs. Sullivan was dropped out from school when she was in seventh grade and can’t read! Fortunately, Maxine with the help of her supportive family takes up a new job of being a tutor to Mrs. Sullivan and teach her how to read.

Maxine’s New Job is a nice introduction to what a neighbor is and the role a neighbor should play. Teaching service and helping others can’t be done through direct instruction. You can share positive examples of service via stories in great children’s books and Dr. Lynda’s book does a wonderful job at teaching kindness, service, and helping others. I especially love the sense of community that is prominent throughout the book. It introduces kids to what a community service is and the importance of serving people in need.

It’s a good lesson for our children to learn, that although everyone has deficiencies in some area, there is always something we can do to help if we are looking for opportunities and making ourselves available. I love the line said by Maxine’s mom “When a person needs help, you do what you can for them with what you have or what you know”. It’s a sweet story about open hospitality and generosity to those around us.

What I particularly liked about this book is that it features a young black girl as an adorable protagonist of the story. We know that all children love seeing faces like theirs within the pages of their picture books, but it can be hard to find books starring kids of color. Dr. Lynda’s book not only gives children of color an opportunity to see themselves in stories but also helps broaden the perspective of all children by fostering children’s sense of empathy and connection with characters who might look different from themselves.

The illustrations are so beautiful, and the plot is captivating. You’ll love this friendly little girl who has quite a fun and busy school life but takes the time to check on her neighbour and help her by teaching how to read. Highly recommended to kids of all ages!

 

Viral Xgressions by Marc Lacy

Viral Xgressions by Marc Lacy
Tainted Souls, Hacked Spirits, Wretched Deals, and Flatlines

Viral Xgressions (pronounced “transgressions”) is the second book of the Whiskey House Trilogy whose first book, Curse of the Whiskey House set the tone of the trilogy with a thunderous boom. Viral Xgressions picks right up where its predecessor left off with non- stop action, front to back drama, and “edge of your seat” anticipation of what’s taking place on the next page.

 

Hawthorne County Alabama is the resting spot for a city called, “Lazarus.” In the first book of the Whiskey House Trilogy, Curse of the Whiskey House, you had to ask yourself the question, “Why would Jesus want to save Lazarus…Alabama?” This town, purportedly a righteous church going dwelling, has allowed the evil deeds of a few to impact many in the worst way.

In Viral Xgressions, the treachery continues…unfortunately. As the subtitle “Tainted Souls, Hacked Spirits, Wretched Deals, and Flatlines” insinuates, Lazarus, Alabama ain’t getting outta the woods no time soon. Somebody needs to step up and DO THE RIGHT THING. Who will it be? Only one way to find out. But be warned, in Curse of the Whiskey House, the pages turned…however in Viral Xgressions, not only will they turn, they’re gonna turn so fast they just may burn. So grab a drink, a pillow, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

NOTE: Viral Xgressions is a very intense read with subject matter that is for adults only. Not advised for any readers under the age of 18.

 

 

Book Review Written by Michele Thomas, Out on A Limb Bookclub

“Viral Xgressions is a gripping good vs evil, supernatural vs reality tale that forces the reader to ask ‘What would I do?’ In this sequel to The Curse of The Whiskey House, Marc Lacy not only illustrates how years of wrongdoing can have dangerous consequences for generations, but he is able to tell the story in such a way that captures today’s issues that are dominating our society.”

 

 

Chapter Excerpt: Viral Xgressions (Transgressions)

“Oh Lord, I can barely breathe. Please, please help me! I didn’t ask for this. I was on my way home and now this! Right in the middle of Friday rush hour traffic. I survived a gunshot to the knee for cryin’ out loud. How is this accident gonna happen to me?” said Coach Gaither to himself as he was being pulled from the wreckage of a two car accident off of the turnpike and 665 Bypass. Friday, 3:30pm and his car was covered by numerous colorful autumn leaves as it rested placidly in a ditch flanking the Hawthorne County Woods.

“Medics, let me talk to the officers please. I can explain everything. This is not right!” demanded Coach Gaither while inhaling a mixture of forest pine aroma doused with oil, gasoline, and anti-freeze.

“Sir, please relax. You have a broken arm and we have to move slowly in order to make sure it’s stabilized,” instructed the paramedic.

“Is this young man your son? And what is that pink stuff spilled inside the vehicle?”

“Um, no he’s not my son. Well um, little Cory is someone I’m guiding through my mentoring program,” replied Coach Gaither nervously. “That’s ice cream.”

“Okay, understood. Well who are his parents? We need to contact them.”

“His parents?”

“Yes sir. Who are his parents? We have to let them know about the accident.”

“Is it okay if I call them to let them know?”

“Well, you can speak with them; however it is our duty to let them know his condition.”

“His condition? He doesn’t look hurt.”

“Well, he may not be seriously hurt, but it looks like the airbag possibly gave him a concussion. We need to contact his parents and have them meet us at General Hospital.”
Coach Gaither looked at the paramedic with eyes and mouth wide open, with an astonished expression, then said, “What does all of this mean?”

“Sir, the police will be over in a second to begin asking questions. Is there something wrong Mr. Gaither? You seem a bit startled and over-anxious?”

“I. I don’t know. I need to call my attorney.” Coach Gaither was coming off of a light sentence comprised of community service (among other obligations) and promised all of his counterparts that he was a changed man. However, it seemed suspicious considering he had a young man riding in the car with him whose parents did not know he was with Coach. A couple of policemen headed over to Coach Gaither’s car. Two walked to the car Gaither plowed into.