“Leaving Large: The Stories of a Food Addict” penned by the author Michelle Petties is a must read. In this book, Michelle has shared her personal food stories, learnings and lessons that transformed her mind and body. Through this book, the author is changing our perspective towards food.
Living in the past, The Flavor of friendship, Bus Station Goodbyes are some of my favorite food stories from this book. These food stories are not just Michelle’s. These food stories are for all of us. After reading these stories, we will be more aware of why we eat.
In this book, the author has mentioned how she changed her food stories that empowered her to change her food identity. If you are struggling to achieve the weight you want then this book is for you. This book is an inspiration to change your physical appearance. I am glad to get my hands on this book at the right time. I was looking for some guidance and this book has given me great tips.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Georgette Van Vliet. I live in New Jersey, USA. My parents immigrated to America from Greece after World War II. I struggled with depression, anxiety and other negative emotions for many years. Life was so difficult for me that I never even wanted to get out of bed. That is how my personal development journey began. I was very inspired by the self-help industry and immersed myself in books and workshops. I eventually became a life coach. Once I was able to overcome the negative emotions enough where I could enjoy my life and pursue my dreams, I knew I had to write books to share with people the simple, practical ways I built my confidence and self-worth on my journey to happiness. I love my life. I am married and have a son. I have a great career as a high school administrator. I write books and am invited to present workshops in many different places. I travel extensively with either my family or friends. I am always on the move!
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Attract Love, Joy And Abundance’ book?
Getting my message across clearly and simply. When I was depressed and anxious, I couldn’t read complicated material. It just made my situation worse. My goal in writing my books or presenting workshops is to have the reader feel, “I can do this!” I spend a lot of time revising to make sure I get my ideas across succinctly, so my readers can start practicing the tips immediately.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I am an avid reader! I love Dr. Wayne Dyer, Louise Hay, Napoleon Hill, Jack Canfield, and Julia Cameron. Of course, I have read hundreds of books, but these authors in particular have all been extremely influential in my personal development journey to finding lasting love, joy, and success!
Q4. What’s your favorite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
America is so beautiful and there are many places where I feel like I connect to God, spirit and my intuition. I love the mountains of Catskills, New York. I love the beaches in South Hampton, New York. I love the Grand Canyon. Nature absolutely brings out the best in me and gets my creativity aligned with the messages I want to deliver to the world.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes. It could take me anywhere from six months to a year. I also work full time as a high school English supervisor, so my time to write is limited to evenings and weekends. My first draft is what I call “a dump.” I just dump all my ideas into a massive long paragraph because I don’t want to forget anything. Then I go back and create paragraphs and revise so my message is clear. I spend hours and hours, days and days writing and revising my books. The minimum amount of revisions it goes though is 12 times. Then when I feel my message is clear, I reread it several times for editing purposes. It is painstaking, but I love the process. I love the feeling of accomplishment when it is done, and I love that my practical tips and advice have helped a lot of people.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Release Negative Emotions And Love Your Life!’ book?
Each books takes approximately six months to write. I do a lot of research, and it takes a while to organize my notes, my thoughts, my personal experiences and to also share some of the challenges and successes of the people I coach. I bring all this information together in a way that is practical and approachable for everyone. One of my goals is to make sure that my tips can help every single person who reads my books or who attends my workshops.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Create A Life You Love After Divorce’ book to buy?
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books ?
Coming up with a title is tricky. It has to be catchy. I like to keep my titles short, so people can remember them, but I want to make sure there are key words in the title, so people know exactly what they are going to read. I definitely play around with different titles until something intuitively tells me – this is the one! I work with a fabulous graphic artist and together we brainstorm many options for book covers.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
A lot of my content and ideas come from the people I coach. It seems we all have universal concerns and challenges. I stay focused on finding simple solutions that are available to everyone. One of the things that bothered me when I was most depressed is that a lot of the programs that could have helped me were extremely expensive. That is why I am so focused on keeping my book and workshop prices reasonable. I don’t want anyone to ever feel disappointed because they are missing an opportunity to learn and grow.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Yes. My favorite secret is that these practices aren’t meant to be done once. To be successful, to alleviate some of your pain, depression, anxiety, stress – or any other negative emotion – you have to commit yourself to these personal development practices. Over time, you will notice that you are a happier, more confident person. It is the best feeling, but you have to be patient with yourself as you practice these tips. If you have felt any of these negative emotions for a long time, it might take a while to change. But never give up on having your dream life!
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
Hi! I’m Libby Kay. I’m a contemporary romance author with my debut novel, Falling Home, releasing in December. I live in Ohio with my husband where we love to try new restaurants and hike around the state parks. When I’m not writing, I’m reading every romance book I can get my hands on. While I write contemporary romance, I adore historical romances and thrillers. I’m also a bit of a true crime fanatic and enjoy a good podcast when I need a break from romance. (It’s all about balance, right?) 😉
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing Falling Home?
Not to state the obvious, but the pandemic played a huge role. I started writing and outlining this story in 2019, and I was hitting my stride when lockdown started in early 2020. At first, I could not write a word while my brain tried to absorb and understand our new normal. Then after a few weeks, I started feeling antsy. Since I couldn’t get out and explore in the real world, I devoted my energy to crafting Buckeye Falls (the town where Falling Home takes place). After the story was started, the biggest hurdle was writing while in isolation. I missed being outside and interacting with people. I’m inspired by people I meet and casual interactions I have, so missing that slowed my creativity down a little.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Oh, there’s almost too many to list. 😉 I would say the big ones are Sharon Sala, Kristan Higgins, Robyn Carr, and Maisey Yates. For Carr, Sala, and Yates, I’ve always enjoy the towns where their stories take place. They are fictional and have this cozy and romantic vibe in every book. Looking at Sala’s Blessing’s Georgia series, I love how there’s a core group of characters that always pop up in the next book. As a reader, I love that sense of continuity. I’ve also loved Kristan Higgins’s books, especially the way she writes her characters. Her earlier books were strictly romances, and I loved how the yearning, backstories, and HEAs were written. There are some of her books that I haven’t read in years, but I’ll randomly think of a couple of characters and smile. I’d love to have that long-lasting swoon effect on my readers. 😊
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Oh wow, that’s a tough question to answer! If I had to pick a big city, I love Chicago. There’s always something to see and do. I’ve had a lot of great times there with friends and family. If I’m looking to relax and have some peace and nature, I love northern Ohio and the Lake Erie area. Put-in-Bay is a hidden gem – and the setting for a future book in the Buckeye Falls series. 😉
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
Yes and no. Writing Falling Home took a little longer to prep, because I wanted to do some world-building and decide what Buckeye Falls would look like. (It’s based on a few small towns I visited when I lived in Indiana and later here in Ohio.) Now that I have the town and characters mapped out, writing the next books in the series is slightly easier. But when it comes to the character development, that still takes a little time.
Q6. How long did it take you to write Falling Home?
About 18 months from starting notes to getting my contract with Inkspell Publishing.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find Falling Home to buy?
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title Falling Home?
I am very fortunate to be writing with Inkspell Publishing, as they have a team to craft the cover. I had input, and I could not be happier with the finished product. The designer was Fantasia Frog Designs. In terms of coming up with the title, I knew it had to have fall or falling in the title. This is the first book in the Buckeye Falls series, so I wanted to have a theme with the book titles. For this first book, it’s all about the main character Ginny finding her way back to Max and also her hometown.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
I’m a librarian by trade, so following book trends has always been something I enjoy. I like to read the tropes I like to write, too. I truly think every writer must be a reader, otherwise it’s impossible to see what’s out there and know what readers are looking for and enjoying.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
The blurb alludes to this, but the reader will meet a lot of characters that will be the main characters in future Buckeye Falls books. You can still read and enjoy Falling Home as a stand-alone book, but it was important for me to have a sense of community for Max and Ginny as they fall in love.
“A Thousand Miles to Santiago” penned by the author Shawn Herron is part memoir and part travelogue.
Shawn resigned from his job in Washington, DC and said farewell to his friends and co-workers. He embarked on a year-long trip and added Camino to the end of his trip.
In this book, Shawn has described Camino’s connection to history. On his journey, he met pilgrims from all walks of life. He walked in different seasons. Also, he went to the post office to parcel a few of his belongings to the States. With a lighter bag, he found some relief on his journey. It was interesting to read the words of wisdom from Shawn. The challenges he encountered made him wiser.
Those who love history and traveling should get their hands on this book for sure. It’s well written. I enjoyed the narrative of this book. Shawn has well described his experiences. I am glad to read it.
“The Mysterious Bat-Bee” written by the author C S Ferdinand is a middle grade fantasy adventure novel. The story features two kids Thomas and Julia. Their grandpa John was stung by a mysterious bee that has bat-like wings. Grandpa John hasn’t been well since then.
Grandma Rini went to her sister Magda who is a witch. She asked her to save her husband by using some magic. Will Magda be able to save John?
The plot of the story is interesting. The language used in the book is lucid and the cover photo is lovely. This is a perfect fantasy story for middle grade readers. The pace of the story is fast and I enjoyed every bit of it. Go for it without any second thoughts.
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: A Thousand Miles to Santiago 📚 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Shawn Herron ✍️ . . 🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: “A Thousand Miles to Santiago” penned by the author Shawn Herron is part memoir and part travelogue.
Shawn resigned from his job in Washington, DC and said farewell to his friends and co-workers. He embarked on a year-long trip and added Camino to the end of his trip.
In this book, Shawn has described Camino’s connection to history. On his journey, he met pilgrims from all walks of life. He walked in different seasons. Also, he went to the post office to parcel a few of his belongings to the States. With a lighter bag, he found some relief on his journey. It was interesting to read the words of wisdom from Shawn. The challenges he encountered made him wiser.
Those who love history and traveling should get their hands on this book for sure. It’s well written. I enjoyed the narrative of this book. Shawn has well described his experiences. I am glad to read it.
The House of Spark is a historical fiction novel penned by the author Luminita Laflash. The story is set in Romania.
When Virginia reached the meeting point to meet her boyfriend Jenica, she didn’t find him there. Virginia’s friends Mircea and Doina helped her in looking for Jenica. Since Jenica’s disappearance, Virginia couldn’t focus on studies so she took leave from the university.
Virginia’s family life was full of tragedy. She lost her father and brother. But when she met Jenica, for the first time she believed she could find her inner peace back. Virginia is too determined to find out what has happened to Jenica.
I loved Virginia’s character. The backdrop setting is amazing. The language used in the book is lucid and I was able to follow the story easily. The story kept me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Those who love historical fiction should definitely read this one.
“Goal Get’em Girls” is a self-help book penned by the author Joy Green. In this book, the author has mentioned that anything is possible if we put our mind to it. No matter how big or small our goals are, we can achieve them.
In this guided journal, the author has given guidance on a goal setting process. Creating an action plan and taking action to achieve those goals also plays an important role. Also, the author is suggesting readers not to give up because achieving goals takes patience and consistency.
One good thing that I realized while reading this book is that I need to stop believing in negative thoughts. We should stop doubting ourselves. This is a well written book that inspires women to achieve their goals. It is an insightful read with wonderful tips. Go for it without any second thoughts.
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: Asia penned by the author George C Lesley is an intriguing fantasy novel. It is a captivating story that hooked me from the first page itself.
The story features three different people: Simon, Deborah and Nathan. They are from three different walks of life but they all share a secret. Their world turned upside down when they met a mysterious woman named Asia.
Asia is a strange creature. Her encounter with Deborah, Simon and Nathan is interesting to read.
The twists and turns in the story kept me hooked to it till the last page. The title of the book is suitable and I enjoyed every bit of it. Those who enjoy reading fantasy stories should go for it. George has done great work as a debut author. The characters are written well and will stay in my head for a long time. Asia’s character is my favourite. Deborah’s ruthless nature will surprise the readers.
The story is fast paced and you won’t be bored anytime while reading it.
🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: Twilight’s Child penned by the author Paul Knight is the first installment in ‘The Dreamweaver Saga’.
The five dark rulers have taken the dream realm and they are destroying everything. Their leader Dark Shadow and his army has taken all five kingdoms. Only five people survived out of twenty. They set out on an adventure to save their land from the spreading darkness. Quastell is the last of the great Ghanchi wizards. He visited Scarlett, a Twilight’s Child.
Quastell told her that she has the blood of Dreamweaver in her veins. She is powerful as she is part human and part dream. Read this adventurous story to know what will happen when Scarlett gets transported to the dreamlands.
The writing style of the author is nice. I appreciate the vivid imagination of the author in creating this fantasy world. The title of the book is suitable. The pace of the story is fast and I wasn’t bored anytime while reading it. I couldn’t keep this book down until I finished it.
I like to recommend this book to both teenagers as well as adults.
Sassy Reviews 