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Interview with author Michael C. Higgins

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

A1. For more than twenty years, author, photographer and wine expert Michael C. Higgins has been the publisher of Flying Adventures, a lifestyle travel magazine for food and wine lovers who own and travel on private airplanes. As a private pilot, travel enthusiast and food and wine lover himself, Higgins continues to live the story he’s been sharing for decades.

Between the magazine and this book series, Higgins has participated in some of the most extraordinary experiences. He has virtually done it all: from pruning vines, picking grapes, working alongside winemakers, to participating in blind tastings, food and wine pairings, judging Cru Bourgeois wines, and sharing many meals with world-renowned winemakers over countless hours, discussing everything wine. His time in wine regions adds up to thousands of days and counting. And as an accomplished photographer, he has captured even more spectacular images of the wine world.

Higgins has participated in many unique wine experiences, indulged in the most exclusive culinary affairs, been pampered in highly luxurious destinations and jumped into the wildest of adventures. His goal is to inspire his readers to join him in exploring the wine regions of the world and experiencing the unimaginable. Higgins has a BA in Commercial Art, an MBA and a PhD in Business Administration. He is a California native and lives in Pasadena, California.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Exploring Wine Regions: Argentina”?

A2. Since this is my first book, I was faced with all the challenges of beginning a new business. I know a lot about print publishing from the publishing of my magazine Flying Adventures over 20 years. So, producing the Argentina book I completely understand creating a beautiful physical publication. However, the distribution is different. Fortunately, I was able to create a relationship with the largest book distributor in the world, Baker and Taylor Publisher Services, so this created a large distribution in small and large bookstores across the country.

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

A3. My books are unique. There is nothing else like them. Spending four years to create the content to produce a book makes them quite special and unique. And being a photographer, this is my favorite part of the book. Creating spectacular beautiful photographs unlike anything else you would ever see.

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

A4. The California Wine Regions are some of the best in the world. And with my current book being on the Central Coast of California, this is a very special place for me. The wines are extraordinary. The food is amazing. The tourism is awesome. And the landscapes are ever so beautiful. All types of wines are made here, so I can indulge in whatever I desire at the moment.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Exploring Wine Regions: California Central Coast’?

A5. After completing my first book on Argentina, my distributor and I looked at what would be the most important wine regions to produce books. The two that we decided on were Bordeaux France and California USA. Bordeaux became my second book and California became my third book. The reason for the Central Coast is simple. Napa Valley and Sonoma are very well-known and so the Central Coast gets lost in the shadow of their success. The Central Coast Wine Regions are amazing and they produce some of the best wines in California. So I wanted to show my readers what an amazing place this is to visit.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Exploring Wine Regions: Bordeaux France’?

A6. The Argentina trip took four years. Bordeaux France took another four years. The California Central Coast took three years. And fortunately, my next book on México is only one more year.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. My books can be found in physical bookstores, as well as ordering them online at all the major venues you can think of. The big ones like Barnes & Noble and Amazon, as well as the small local bookstores, which are very important to support. We also produce a Travel Edition e-book, which is available through Apple and Amazon.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Exploring Wine Regions: México’?

A8. The overall look, design and graphics of all the covers remain the same, including México. What is different on the México cover is the photograph, which is a beautiful hacienda in Valle de Guadalupe. It just felt very stylish México. The other difference on the México cover is the subhead: Exploring México’s Quality Wines And Phenomenal Cuisine. People think of Mexico for tequila as this is where the trademark tequila region exists in the world. People don’t normally think of México for wine. However, México produces high-quality wines and I have found those quality wineries and pointed them out in the books. The other great part of México is the food. And I’m not speaking of necessarily Mexican food. You can eat some of the best cuisine you’ll ever taste in the world.

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

A9. This is a very interesting question. I am often asked why write about different wineries because they are all the same. A winery makes wine and the process is the same from one winery to the next. To me, each winery is unique. I tell people to read my books and then I get the responses of wow, it’s amazing how different each winery can be. When visiting wineries, I only do one winery per day. This way I can focus on what makes that winery unique. I spend time with the winemaker, the vintner/owner, and the agronomist if they have one, and I explore their vineyards, winery, cellar, tasting room, and restaurant, and get involved with all of their activities, which collectively makes each winery it’s own unique special place. This is how things stay fresh for me. On every trip, I always learn something new.

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

A10. That I have a great voice. That I should keep this style of writing. I received this feedback from some of the judges who have judged my books and honored them with awards.

Author’s Profile on Amazon

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Life is More Than This Covington Pond

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Life is More Than This Covington Pond 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Portia Y. Clare ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Life is More Than This Covington Pond” written by the author Portia Y. Clare and illustrated by Lisa Alderson is an interesting Children’s book. The main character of the story is Nann, a little girl who lives on Covington Pond. Nann always wonders. She dreams and sees farther than her eyes could look.

Nann would explore different places that would inspire her to step out often. A little girl like Nann is a well written character. She would inspire readers to dream high and explore as much as possible.

This book is an amazing read. Adults also would realize that they should take off time from their work so they can explore. The language used in the book is lucid and the cover photo is well designed. Every parent should add this book to their children’s bookshelf. Kids would learn to dream. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Confronting Chaos: The Civility Crisis

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Confronting Chaos: The Civility Crisis 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Nelson R. Grimmett ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Confronting Chaos: The Civility Crisis” penned by the author Nelson R. Grimmett is a highly recommended read. Through this book, the author is bringing the reader’s attention to the lack of civility in contemporary America. The author has mentioned that we need to come together to build a culture of respect so we can bring back the values of civility. We need to bid goodbye to racism and the injustices.

Civility means treating others with respect, empathy and dignity even when we disagree with others. It inspires us for peaceful conflict resolution. Lack of empathy and understanding are the main reasons for lack of civility. There are many consequences of the lack of civility. Trust and respect has eroded from society and the lack of civility causes stress and depression, which further spoils an individual’s mental health.

This book is a wake up call for us to be more understanding and empathetic. It’s high time that we come forward together and treat everyone properly so people can trust anyone easily. The author has done great work in this book. For ourselves and our future generation, we should restore civility and make this society better again. The pace of the book is fine and I am glad to read it. Nelson has shared valuable information in this book in a lucid language so more people could come forward and make their contribution in building a civil society. The author’s narration is smooth and strong.

This book has inspired me to be more empathetic. I am delighted to read it. The ideas expressed in it are fantastic and the title is suitable. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Deborah Threadgill Egerton

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

I describe myself as a matriarch, a mentor and a mystic.

As a Matriarch, I’ve cultivated a global sisterhood, providing a nurturing space for women from all walks of life to explore and celebrate their diverse cultures, customs, and values. I offer the gift of guidance and support, offering the wisdom I’ve obtained from my experience to women of varied backgrounds.In my role as Mentor, I’ve dedicated myself to shaping the future generations, not through wealth or power, but through the sturdy foundation of love, wisdom, and respect for humanity. I aim to leave behind shoulders strong enough for them to stand on, inspiring them to craft something truly extraordinary.

As a Mystic, I traverse the world with a heart filled with joy, embracing the beautiful tapestry of humanity. My faith is my anchor, guiding me to trust in the power of love as the ultimate source of strength.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Enneagram Made Easy”?

The key challenges were distilling the Enneagram down into understandable terms without losing its essence or power. I could easily have written hundreds of more pages!

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

I too am a voracious reader so my interests are very broad. In this vein of thought it would have to be. C. G.Jung, Richard Rohr, Pema Chodron, Russ Hudson and Beatrice Chestnut.

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

I was born there. It will always be home and the city energizes me.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Know Justice Know Peace’?

There is great power in looking at the way you are showing up in the world. I believe if people slow down and take a look at the consequences of their actions, they might change their behaviors. The Enneagram helps you to do that, and with all the ways that we marginalize people all over the world it’s important to have some tools in place that will help us to look at the way we are “othering“ people, as in treating them like objects. Kindness matters.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Enneagram Made Easy’?

About a year.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

My books are available everywhere books are sold. Amazon, Barnes and noble even target Walmart. The easiest way to access my books and audio books is to go to my website Deborahegerton.com. The links to the books take you directly to a purchasing option.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Know Justice Know Peace’?

The book cover, is really part of the creative genius of my co-author Lisi Mohandessi. Lisi is a graphic artist. We both wanted something that represented Beauty and strife at the same time. The colors of the book are beautiful and yet there is something somewhat twisted and tortured in the graphic depiction of the human terrain. It’s what we look like beneath the surface of the skin.

The title came quickly. We will never be able to elevate the consciousness of the human species if we do not understand Justice and Peace. We must take the time and get to Know Justice and Know Peace if we are to move forward.

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

I make sure that I remain very present. I don’t try to force words to come I actually let the words come through me. When the words are not there, I let it be until they come back and then I will resume the writing. Everything comes in its correct time and season  I trust that,and that is how I write.

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

someone told me once, (and I don’t remember who) that anything that was meant to be written by me would come through me. I have found that to be true. Writing is something that I enjoy. I do not labor over it. I do not stress during the process of trying to allow a book to be born. A book cannot be born before it is ready, and I have the wisdom in this season of my life to recognize that.

Author’s profile on Amazon

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Enneagram Made Easy

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Enneagram Made Easy 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Deborah Threadgill Egerton ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Enneagram Made Easy” is an intriguing read penned by the author Deborah Threadgill Egerton. This book introduced me to the concept of Enneagram. The Enneagram is an archetypal personality system that identifies nine distinct types. These nine points reflect nine different energies.

The author has discussed these nine points in detail. Reflections for each point is helpful. By gaining deeper insights about these points, one would be more aware and confident about their own self-growth instead of being insecure and judgemental. With the learnings from this book, you would develop a compassion for a fellow human being and could appreciate them more.

The author has done great work in this book. The knowledge shared in it is helpful. The title of the book is suitable. This powerful book helped me in having a better relationship with myself. Also, I developed a better understanding of certain behaviors of other people.

Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts. It’s a must read.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Richard

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

A1. My name is Dick (Richard) Contino and I am an attorney / businessman, specializing primarily in the finance area. I founded and co-founded a number of businesses as well as joint ventures with major companies, and currently I am the CEO of a relatively new business that sets up finance companies for equipment manufacturers, the Managing Director of a specialized investment banking company and the founder and managing partner of an equipment leasing specialized law firm.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Emotional Intelligence at Work”?

A2. I was writing about an aspect of the business process that is generally not recognized as existing, and a topic rarely addressed in business schools or in life in general. Most people are indoctrinated by their parents, teachers, mentors and society in general to believe emotional issues do not belong in the business process and therefore we are lead to believe do not exist in business. So, in writing about emotional issues in business, I needed to identify examples that the reader could relate to notwithstanding what they believe.

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

A3. Initially I was most influenced by business self-help books and books on psychology; that is, until I actually began my own businesses and encountered issue after issue that seemed to block progress. And the more I encountered business challenges, the more I realized that business self-help books in the market did not address how to really overcome the hurdles and negativity resulting from progress roadblocks. So, I found that the many suggestions offer by business self-help books, although theoretically appealing, did not in fact solve challenges I faced almost on a weekly basis. And as I became more aware of my feelings in the business process I realized that what I have been taught, emotions are not a part of the business process, was not in act the case and that there was a lack of books that effectively addressed how to succeed/prosper in business and address the underlying feelings and emotions that we are rarely aware of and that dictate how we progress or do not progress in the business environment.

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

A4. The Outer Banks water community in North Carolina, USA—hands down. Spending time by the water provides the ultimate relaxation time.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Emotional Intelligence at Work’?

A5. As I progressed in various startup businesses and consulted for other businesses where management struggling to progress, I began to see not only where my unconscious emotional roadblocks were but where they existed in others. And how the unconscious roadblocks either slowed progress down or completely blocked it. And this reinforced my emerging belief that society’s well-meaning cultural and socialized beliefs imposed on each of us as we grew up were clearly a self-limiting issue.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Emotional Intelligence at Work’?

A6. I spent 8 months, part time, 2 to 3 early mornings hours per day, every week.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Amazon

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Emotional Intelligence at Work’?

A8. The book publisher provided a book cover designer and the title was based on what I was advancing as an awareness concept.

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

A9. I try to address in a simple and understandable way the various aspects that the book was conveying—not going into any more detail than necessary to advance an idea that would benefit people in business, both for themselves and in working with and for others

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

A10. If you want to write do it, even when your writing at first is not accepted—keep on going and eventually you will succeed. And convey your ideas simply and in plain English. Do not use fancy words in an effort to make yourself look smart.

Author’s profile on Amazon

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Sad Eyes: Book Two: 1939 to 1951

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Sad Eyes: Book Two: 1939 to 1951 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dan Perkins ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Sad Eyes: Book Two: 1939 to 1951” penned by Dan Perkins is a historical fiction. The main character of the story is Mary Ellen Murphy. She is a fine Irish woman with red hair and green eyes. Mary was a nurse at St. Mary’s Hospital and she works in the emergency room. Once, she met a guy named Shamus. He was a trainee for the Army Air Corps at Ryan Aeronautical.

Shamus was also Irish and was impressed by the beauty of Mary. They got into a relationship and started writing letters to each other when they were away. Before World War II, Shamus told Mary about the resources that would be needed from America. Mary got inspired to leave her civilian life and join the Army Nurse Corps. As the story progresses, Mary receives more and more opportunities to serve others and her country.

The language used in the story is easy to follow. The title of the book is suitable and the cover photo is nicely designed. Those who enjoy reading stories involving strong female protagonists should definitely get their hands on this book. This story inspired me to dig deeper into the history of World War II. The plot of the story is well knit. Great work by Dan in this book.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Amy S. Peele

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

A1. Born in outside of Chicago, I am a RN with a 35 year career in organ transplantation & retired from UCSF in 2014. My Mystery series has been referred to as page turners – Mysteries with a Mission and a side of humor. I love improv and graduated from Second City in Chicago. In addition to killing people I didn’t like at work and using their organs for transplant I enjoy practicing yoga and teaching it. I also love swimming and meditation.

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

A2. It was my first work of fiction so it was a steep learning curve and I was grateful to have a coach and a wonderful developmental editor and copy editor.

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

A3. Louise Penny – Janet Evanovich – Loved the Artist Way by Julie Cameron – really enjoy historical fiction by C.W. Gortner,

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

A4. There are many but Chicago is my favorite city since I lived there for 31 years – the food – the people the music so much to do and see – love it especially in the Fall and Spring

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Match’?

A5. I wanted to tell the story of kidney transplantation and how many options there are now – also to highlight the challenges the dialysis can pose.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Hold’?

A6. It took about a year – it was the hardest to write as I lost two close friends while I was writing it so that was tough.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. My books are available everywhere both on audio and paperback. I always encourage people to buy books from their local independent bookstores whenever possible.

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

A8. My publisher – She Writes Press worked closely with me to finalizing the cover – I also checked with some colleagues who are surgeons to be sure the blade on the scalpel was right.

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

A9. I created two best friends, who are the main protagonists – Jackie Larsen and Sarah Golden who face a new challenge in each book – their friendship gets them through tough times and they know how to have fun – sometimes they surprise me. Also each book goes to different geographic locations and they meet new characters.

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

A10. Consider taking a creative writing class at your local community college – they are so fun and helpful. Read the type of books you want to write and if possible have an accountability partner who can help you achieve your goal.

Author’s profile on Amazon

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Answering Liberty’s Call

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Answering Liberty’s Call: Anna Stone’s Daring Ride to Valley Forge 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Tracy Lawson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Those who are fans of historical fiction should get their hands on Tracy Lawson’s book “Answering Liberty’s Call: Anna Stone’s Daring Ride to Valley Forge”. The main character of the story is Anna. She is a twenty-nine-year-old mother of three. Her brothers and husband were at the army’s winter camp at Valley Forge in Pennsylvania. From her husband Benjamin’s letter, she found out that her brothers Henry and Jeremiah are ill. She follows a map to go from Virginia to Valley Forge in Pennsylvania. Anna wants to deliver food and supplies to her family. 

Anna’s mother couldn’t afford losing her so she insisted Anna not go. However, Anna is determined to help her brothers and husband. Her character is written well by the author. Reading about her journey and the challenges she faced on it kept me on the edge of my seat. Her courage and determination is inspiring.

If you are a Virginia lover and a historical fiction fan then go ahead with this book without any second thoughts. I enjoyed reading the letters between Anna and her husband. The writing style of the author is amazing. Anna’s conversation with her horse Nelly is also enjoyable. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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WHY

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: WHY 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Michelle Eades ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Those who enjoy reading memoirs should get their hands on Michelle Eades’ book “Why”. In this book, the author has opened up about the horrific events from her childhood and how they affected her family and her.

When Michelle was a young girl, she was visited by her Uncle Charlie many times. He always found a way to sexually abuse Michelle. He asked her to keep his adult secret with her otherwise she would be taken away from her mum and dad. At a young age, we get afraid and the abusers take advantage of it. As Michelle grew up, the memories of the abuse were in her mind. She has shared about her various relationships over the years and how she always craved to be a mum. Her journey with her daughter is also worth reading.

Those who are a victim of abuse should definitely read this book. The author inspires them by telling them that there is life after abuse and they are not alone. I am impressed with the author’s thinking of how she sees herself as a survivor instead of considering herself as a victim.

This story is a reminder to all the parents that they should teach their kids about good touch and bad touch from a young age. I am grateful to the author for sharing her story with us. The writing is descriptive and easy to follow. This story kept me hooked till the last page. Great job by Michelle in this memoir.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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