Author: blogespresso

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Anne Boleyn: A History in Portraits

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Anne Boleyn: A History in Portraits 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Elizabeth LaVasse ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Elizabeth LaVasse’s Anne Boleyn: A History in Portraits offers a fresh perspective on Anne Boleyn’s life by examining her depictions in art. This book delves into how her image evolved over time, reflecting shifts in power, identity, and historical memory from the Tudor era to the reign of her daughter, Queen Elizabeth I.

Anne’s downfall was swift—after just three years as Henry VIII’s queen, she was arrested on charges of treason, adultery, and incest with her brother, George Boleyn. Imprisoned in the Tower of London, she was tried, convicted, had her marriage annulled, and was ultimately executed on May 19, 1536. Yet, her legacy endured. Decades later, as Elizabeth I solidified her rule, Anne’s image was rehabilitated, with new portraits crafted to honor her memory.

Among the surviving depictions, the Hever Rose Portrait captures a youthful Anne in her prime, while the Lumley Portrait—once displayed in her childhood home, Hever Castle—presents a regal interpretation of the queen.

For those fascinated by art, portraiture, or historical biographies, this book is a compelling read. It not only sheds light on Anne Boleyn’s life but also explores how art shapes historical narratives. A thought-provoking and well-researched work, it deepens our understanding of Anne’s enduring influence.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: R.S. d’Arcy ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
R.S. d’Arcy’s “Sorcery & Sin in the Second World: A Tale of Two” takes readers on a thrilling adventure into a mysterious parallel world. The story follows Pal and his wife, Rena, who find themselves trapped in a strange second world. Just as they reunite, a powerful sorcerer named Sego tears them apart—imprisoning Pal and claiming Rena for himself.

In captivity, Pal encounters Kana, a woman he vaguely remembers from his own world. Kana reveals her tragic past—after discovering her fiancé’s betrayal, she lashed out in fury, only to find herself condemned to this realm, where time moves differently. While mere hours have passed in her original world, she has endured twenty-three years in this prison.

Determined to rescue Rena, Pal seeks Kana’s help. But the second world is full of dark secrets, and their journey will reveal truths neither of them expected.

D’Arcy crafts a rich, immersive fantasy world that pulls readers in from the first page. The compelling characters and intricate plot make this a story that lingers in the mind long after the final chapter. If you love fast-paced fantasy with deep emotional stakes, this book is a must-read!

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Jeff Pedigo

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. I began a career as an advertising copywriter in my early 20s then eventually became a creative director and now small ad agency owner. CITY ZOO is my first novel.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “CITY ZOO: an unfairy story”?

A2. I wanted the City Zoo in CITY ZOO to represent the United States of America in terms of our country’s foundational history and character, as well as its recent history as filtered through the U.S. news media. However, I did not want to simply retell that history with animals in place of historical figures. Instead, I made the zoo more of a funhouse mirror version of the U.S. — which I thought was really hard.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. George Orwell’s politcal writing is the obvious inspiration. For CITY ZOO, I borrowed the “beast fable” technique Orwell used to write his famous allegory, ANIMAL FARM. Originally, I thought CITY ZOO could serve as a sequel to that book, but then I thought it best to let it stand alone. It’s much more of a farce than ANIMAL FARM is—with far more humor. As for other influences, I find it hard to get into fiction that doesn’t do anything interesting with the prose. I like the prose in Alan Moore’s comics and fiction work a lot. I love Chuck Palahniuk’s whacko plots and writing style. Richard Adams’s WATERSHIP DOWN has always been a favorite. Perhaps another reason I gravitated toward writing a novel about (sort of) “real” animals.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. Washington DC is a place that everyone should visit to understand what it means to be an American. It may also help one understand the symbolic or allegorical value of CITY ZOO.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘CITY ZOO: an unfairy story’?

A5. Orwell’s ANIMAL FARM was one of my favorite books from high school. I remember thinking that someone should write a sequel to it — but that it should be set in a zoo (seemed like the obvious “level up”). Of course I had no intention or inkling of writing whatever-the-story-would-be myself. Then fast-forward to the Trump era. I was not a Trump supporter; I did not watch his Apprentice show or any “reality” shows. All I knew of him came from the skits on SNL and all the cameos he made in those movies set in New York. That said, it was really disconcerting to witness virtually the entire news media so blatantly misrepresent him after he announced his candidacy for President. I would watch a speech—unfiltered, straight from his mouth—and then I would watch the news act like the speech was completely different from what I had heard, and altogether offensive, racist, and objectively terrible, evil and all of the synonyms for those words. Moreover, according to the news — I was a bad racist terrible stupid idiot for even giving Trump a fair hearing. It was—and continues to be—absolutely bizarre. Perfect fodder for an allegorical fable.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘CITY ZOO: an unfairy story’?

A6. I’d say I thought about it and made notes for about a year, and then took about six months of fairly regular writing.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. I recommend getting the hardcover of CITY ZOO on BookBaby, but it’s also available on Amazon and anywhere else books are sold. Alas, the paperback and ebook are available exclusively on Amazon. We are now working on the ebook, which will likely be for sale everywhere. After that, I would love to translate CITY ZOO into a graphic novel.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘CITY ZOO: an unfairy story’?

A8. The title was just kind of an obvious thing from the beginning—including the “unfairy story” subtitle. That bit came from Orwell’s original title for ANIMAL FARM which was ANIMAL FARM: A Fairy Story. I briefly considered calling the book ANIMAL KINGDOM, but decided it was too similar to Orwell’s title to successfully stand alone. The cover of the hardcover is a typewriter that’s supposed to be evocative of a monkey’s face—but I’m afraid it’s just too subtle. Of course now that I’ve clued you in, you can see the eyes, the flat nose, a big grin, but…yeah, too subtle. I love the softcover where we leaned into the classic elephant and donkey political silhouettes with the addition of a monkey (obviously this time) to represent the news media.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A9. For better or worse, I like to have fun with the prose, both as a reader and a writer. I like puns—bad puns and good puns and allusions and non-sequitors and everything in between. When you write ads and commercials like I have for so many years, you learn to come up with clever, often humorous, headlines with light, punchy copy to get attention and encourage memorability. That’s what I leaned into to write CITY ZOO.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. Finish writing it. Complete it, THEN revise it. No, don’t go back and change it over and over again—write the next part, and then keep going and FINISH IT. You can revise the parts when you have the whole.

Buy City Zoo on Amazon

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Master Version 1.1 📚

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Master Version 1.1 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Antanas Marcelionis ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Set in a near-future warzone, Master Version 1.1 is a gripping techno-thriller that follows a Ukrainian military streamer known as the Master. Fighting Russian forces in the perilous Gray Zone, he broadcasts his high-stakes missions on Warvid.Zone, earning a fierce reputation.

When Brainlink Corp. begins implanting neural interfaces in human volunteers, the Master receives a game-changing enhancement—an advanced cybernetic arm that allows him to control technology with his thoughts. But the battlefield grows more unpredictable and the line between man and machine blurs. What will the Master do when his own life would be at risk?

Marcelionis crafts a fast-paced, immersive world filled with tension and innovation. His storytelling is sharp, the action relentless, and the futuristic elements seamlessly woven into the narrative. If you’re a fan of military sci-fi and cyber-thrillers, this is a must-read.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Maximiliano Moreno Sastre

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. Hello, I am Maximiliano Moreno Sastre. But, recently I started going by my Hebrew name, Meir-Gedalya. I was born into a family of Colombian immigrants in London, Ontario. Ever since infancy, I grew up in British Columbia as a proud Colombian, Gay, Jewish man.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Ain’t No Way This Is Real”?

A2. I think when it comes to writing “Ain’t No Way This Is Real”, you have to take it into consideration that this was inspired by a personal experience of mine. Thus, going through all those former memories and thinking back to the trauma I faced wasn’t easy.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. I don’t really have authors who have influenced me or books in this sense. I think when It is something personal to you, you don’t truly need other authors or books to influence a personal piece of yours.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. Here in Canada, I have two special spots. I go to my synagogue, Temple Shalom, almost every Saturday, and my Jewish community has lifted me and carried me. My Rabbi, my friends, the bonds I made there saved me. I never was a religious person, but since the summer of 2024, I found my way to have such a stronger connection with God, again. My second special place is a little cafe in White Rock called “Five-Corners Cafe”. Every time I go in and visit, the owners, the Honeywell family, have become such good friends. They treat their customers and family and I have never met such amazing and talented people like them.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Ain’t No Way This Is Real’?

A5. I wrote ‘Ain’t No Way This Is Real’ shortly after I went through a brutal friendship breakup with my best friend. I had just arrived in Colombia in August of last year and my other best friend, Chaya, called me to see how I was doing. She then asked why I don’t turn my experiences into a book. I also wrote ‘Ain’t No Way This Is Real’ because when we look at the media, what do we see represented more? Romantic relationships and breakups. In my opinion, friendships, and friendship breakups are just as equally important and harmful. And I want to be able to bring comfort to someone out there who Is going through what I went through, and is felt seen.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Ain’t No Way This Is Real’?

A6. Honestly, 5 hours. After my friend, Chaya, suggested the idea of turning my experiences into a book, I was hesitant at first. Until I talked with my therapist, Dr. Sandra Alvarez. And she told me this: “Writing isn’t just a gift, it’s a healing tool. It takes your pain and creates something beautiful.” That phrase alone, when I returned home, I sat down and within 5 hours, I had written the first draft of “Ain’t No Way This is Real.” The writing process was hard, I had to stop and take a break or cry. But at the end, it felt like such a giant weight was lifted.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. There are multiple platforms available. Amazon, Indigo, Booktopia, Waterstones, Abebooks, Better World Books, Alibirs, Walamrt and BAM (Books-A-Million).

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Ain’t No Way This Is Real’?

A8. The cover, I decided to make it a bit of an illustration of both of us, in a way as if we were both moving away from each other, yet looking back. To represent the years going by, yet whenever we look back, we will see each other.

When it came to deciding to pick a title, it was hard due to not really knowing which one would be a good fit and connect with the story and its content. Until, at the sametime, Aretha Franklin’s ‘Ain’t No Way’ played in my headphones. That song talked about how someone went through the heartbreak of being left by a partner. And if you listen to the lyrics, you can see that the song not only connects with relationships, but on the aspect of friendships, too. ‘Ain’t No Way’ came from the Queen of Soul, and ‘this is real’ came from me, as I still find it hard to believe our (Me and my friend) friendship ended.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A9. When I think about how I keep things fresh, I don’t really have a specific method. I write what I feel, what I think, what I picture, what I imagine. And when it comes to books, I try to think: will this story be entertaining for a large audience, or can it help/connect with a lot of people at this time?

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. I will restate what my therapist told me: “Writing isn’t just a gift, it’s a healing tool. It takes your pain and creates something beautiful.” If you’re going through a hard time in your life, and want to find a way to heal. The best way is through your craft. Any form, writing, painting, photography, sculpting, taking what you love and healing your scars.

Buy Ain’t No Way This Is Real on Amazon

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Ain’t No Way This Is Real

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Ain’t No Way This Is Real 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Maximiliano Moreno Sastre ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Maximiliano Moreno Sastre’s book takes readers on an emotional journey through a once-unbreakable bond that ultimately falls apart. The story is inspired by his own friendship, which began in high school when he met someone who quickly became more than just a friend—he was family.

For five years, their connection grew stronger, built on mutual support and brotherhood. The author always encouraged his brother to strive for greatness, believing in him wholeheartedly. But everything took a drastic turn when a new relationship entered the picture. His brother’s girlfriend disapproved of the author, leading to a painful rift that shattered their brotherhood.

This book explores how the author coped with the deep wounds of betrayal and found the strength to rebuild himself. Having personally experienced similar heartbreak, I deeply resonated with his emotions.

It’s a compelling, fast-paced read that had me hooked from the very beginning. If you’ve ever lost a close friend and struggled with the pain of separation, this book offers both solace and understanding. The author’s storytelling is engaging, making it a book worth picking up. Give it a read—you won’t regret it!

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Nourishing Families

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Nourishing Families 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Stine Marie ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
This book serves as a practical guide to developing healthier eating habits while enjoying food. It highlights the impact of nutrition on energy levels, mood, and focus. The author shares personal experiences, explaining how swapping processed foods for whole foods positively influenced her family’s well-being.

Understanding that drastic changes can feel daunting, Stine advocates for gradual shifts—adopting one new habit at a time. I found the advice on expanding one’s palate particularly helpful. As someone who has always been selective with food, I resonated with the strategies that encouraged me to explore new flavors. The book emphasizes the importance of involving the entire family in fostering long-term healthy eating patterns.

Rather than eliminating treats entirely, the author promotes a balanced approach, allowing room for enjoyment while maintaining nutritious choices. She underscores the role of patience and a positive mindset in sustaining these habits.

This insightful read offers practical tips that, if applied, can lead to a healthier lifestyle. It has motivated me to reassess my own diet and make small, manageable adjustments. The writing style is clear and engaging, making it an accessible and inspiring book for anyone looking to improve their eating habits. I highly recommend it!

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Niyi Olujobi

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A1. I am Niyi Olujobi, a husband, father, leader and preacher of the Word of God. I love preaching and demonstrating the uncompromising word of faith.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Faith Dimension”?

A2. I had so much in my spirit to write. It is about choosing the right content for this book without making it extraordinarily large. I believe books like this should be about the size everyone can digest.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A3. Authors such as Kenneth Copeland, Jerry Savelle, and Kenneth Hagin. These are teachers of faith that have written books which has made tremendous impact on me as a Christian.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A4. Hythe its a beautiful coastal town in Kent.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Faith Dimension’?

A5. My core ministry is “Teaching and Preaching the message of faith” like Apostle Paul in Romans 10:8b and although I had written other books, I have not written on faith. I have also met many Christians who are struggling when it comes to standing in faith to receive what God has for them, therefore, I thought writing a book that can equip believers around the world in this area. This book can go to where I cannot go and can minister to people I perhaps, cannot reach in person.

It takes faith to please God. It takes faith to receive from God. Everyone are in need of one thing or another from God therefore, I wrote this book to assist everyone in their walk of faith.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Faith Dimension’?

A6. It took about 4 months to write this book.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Primarily, on Amazon. It is available on Amazon in every country.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Faith Dimension’?

A8. The book title was influenced by my family as I was debating various titles for this book with them. It started with my son, Tomiwa, then my wife, Gloria, and the rest of my family. My spiritual son, Seyi designed the book cover. What a brilliant book cover this is.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A9. By focusing on what the word of God says about faith and testimonies I have experienced in my walk of faith. I could only share some testimonies in this book. However, I believe this book will bring many into their testimonies.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A10. I can’t think of any. However, from my experience of writing, it is about the moment of inspiration and quality time given to dealing with a chapter or topic at a time.

Buy The Faith Dimension on Amazon

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The Beasts of Dropull

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Beasts of Dropull 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Z.D. Boxall ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Beasts of Dropull” by Z.D. Boxall is the gripping first book in the Tawny & Cree series. At the heart of the story is Tawny Tidno, a sixteen-year-old girl who embarks on a holiday with her sister Tiffany and Fanny. Tiffany also invites her friends Kat and Carl to join them, hoping for a fun-filled adventure.

However, their trip takes a terrifying turn when they are captured by monstrous minotaurs—beasts known for their cruel intentions toward women. The leader of the creatures proposes a horrifying fate: the girls must serve them, bear their offspring, and remain trapped in their world until death. Tawny, who has always relied on her protective sister Tiffany, is free and has to come up with a way to save her sister and her friends.

But just when all seems lost, Tawny encounters Cree of Daimonas. Desperate for a way out, she pleads for his help. Yet aiding her comes at a heavy cost—if Cree chooses to stand against the minotaurs, he risks losing everything, including his home.

What choice will Cree make? Will the two of them be able to defeat the minotaurs? This thrilling adventure is packed with suspense, unexpected alliances, and high-stakes action. The author’s writing style is immersive, the pacing is intense, and the story keeps you hooked until the very end. Tawny’s character is compelling, and the book’s cover perfectly sets the tone for the dark and dangerous journey within.

If you enjoy action-packed fantasy with strong characters and a fast-paced plot, don’t hesitate to pick up this book!

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Georgina the Cat

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Georgina the Cat 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Gary Cobbin ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Georgina the Cat” by Gary Cobbin is a delightful picture book that encourages readers to embrace their true selves.

The story follows Georgina, a curious cat who is fascinated by a dog’s carefree lifestyle. She watches as the dog lounges in the sun, barks at birds, scratches its fleas, and eagerly devours its meals.

One day, Georgina gazes into the mirror and decides to live like a dog. She starts barking, wagging her tail, and imitating everything the dog does. At first, it seems like an exciting adventure, but will pretending to be someone else bring her lasting happiness?

This charming tale delivers an important lesson about self-acceptance in a fun and engaging way. Gary Cobbin’s storytelling is captivating, making this book a joy to read—especially to young audiences like my nephews. If you’ve ever wished to be someone else, this book is a must-read!

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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