Fully Human is a lovely collection of poems penned by the author Mike A Loyd. This poetry book is divided into seven chapters.
The poem Forgiveness tells us to forgive each other every day. Even though it’s not easy, it’s important.
My Everything is about a guy who had everything money could buy but he didn’t have his family by his side. Family is everything. Until and unless we don’t have our family by our side, we are incomplete.
My favorite poem from the collection is Hopes and Dreams. We all stay so busy that we don’t have time to waste. Whenever we meet someone they start asking about our college or job package even though we don’t like such questions. I could very well relate to this poem.
People sitting and fidgeting all day, and all along, chittering and chattering, “Did you hear that new song?” Coming and going from here and to there, eating and drinking amidst gasping for air.
Some of my other favorite poems from the collection are: Belonging, That’s Life, Learning to Trust, etc. Language used in this book is lucid. Even if you aren’t an avid poetry reader, you would be able to understand these poems. Cover photo of the book is lovely. Readers would be able to relate their situation to many poems. I enjoyed reading this anthology. The author has done great work in this book. Go for it. I am sure you would like it.
Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
As a champion for the inner child in all of us, I am a believer that the road to happiness lies within our younger selves. I am a Star Trek junkie, former high performance rower, former actor, and a former Chippendale that has amassed quite a lot of life lessons which can be found in my memoir.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘All In With Love’ book?
Self-growth happens when we let go of insecurities and become transparent with the good, bad, and the ugly. In my life journey I have had many successes and as many failures, of which many have been very devastating. Learning to accept these and share with others was a key obstacle to face.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
Honestly, my writing was more influenced by the films of Terrence Malick, Darren Aronofsky, Scorsese, and Spielberg. Being in the industry for years, my love of movies spurred on a creative landscape when writing.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Beavertail Lighthouse in Rhode Island. Sitting on the rocky bluffs gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean has always been my muse and my oracle when I needed inspiration or guidance.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?
Every author is different. For me, I knew exactly where I wanted to take this journey of a middle aged man who was on a road to reconnect to his younger self. Because of my film background, I had a story board of the book in my head as I sat down to write. When it was go time, I went.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘All In With Love’ book?
Just shy of two years. And with that, I wrote for the first 459 days straight without skipping a day.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘All In With Love’ book to buy?
It will be available at over 50,000 book sellers worldwide including: FriesenPress Bookstore, Amazon, Ingram Spark, ITunes Bookstore, Kobo Bookstore, Nook, Barnes and Nobles, Chapters, and Indigo. It is available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book formats.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘All In With Love’?
Well, the book cover was something I had envisioned based on my life and the journey within the book’s pages. To me, it made sense that my younger self would come and join me as we stood together at the only home we have ever known, the water’s edge. The title itself was something that is a common theme in the book: all my life I have gone all in on the things that I wanted but there was always a price to pay. Now, it is about going all in with love each and every day moving forward.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
Life is a rhythm. And writing a book is no different. I think the freshness comes in understanding the ebb and flow of storytelling, knowing when to surprise, when to go into specific detail, when to sprinkle in some humor or lightness, and when to allow the audience to breathe. Each author has their own brush with which to paint freshness to the reader and to themselves.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Hahaha. Oh, there are lots truthfully. Living in New York and Los Angeles has allowed me to meet some pretty cool people and be in some unexpected situations. This book contains a lot of celebrity interactions and friendships as well as an interesting insight into the world of filmmaking, Chippendales, and murder.
Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.
My name is Marques Bowden. I am a working Geologist who writes novels as a hobby. I’ve been married for 5 years, a stepfather to 3 children and a biological father to a 3-year-old little boy. I started writing books when I taught Middle school for one year, and was challenged by my students to practice what I was teaching in the classroom.
Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Fire Line: Generational Burst’ book?
When I wrote the first book, I had no idea about the process of story development, detail, and how to keep readers engaged. When I started writing Fire Line: Generational Burst, the Covid outbreak caused me to get laid off and I had to postpone writing it for nearly a year. Once I got a chance to finish it, I wanted to broaden the depth of the main characters, give them more flaws and obstacles to overcome, and not make the character arcs predictable.
Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I got most of my inspiration from authors Tariq Nasheed, Zo Williams, and the youtuber known as the Angryman. When Tariq came out with the documentary series Hidden Colors, that when I learned about the amazing history of the Moors. After viewing his films and reading his books, I began to research the many texts on the Moors and drew my inspiration for the characters. Zo Williams is known as the Voice of Reason and has written several books, his latest being the Shrouded Lighthouse, which teaches us how the relationships that we have with ourselves influence the relationships we have with other people. Back in 2015, he did a show called Moors for dummies highlighting the hidden history of the Moors: how they came to be, the inventions they brought to Europe, their reign and their demise. That episode influenced my decision to one day create a character associated with the Moors. The Angryman has always been adamant about creating super heroes that our children could relate to. So one day, he asked a rhetorical question, “Why don’t we create and promote our own heroes?” At that point, I said, challenge accepted, and decided to write Fire Line.
Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?
Out of all of my travels, I would probably say two places: the beaches of south Texas and the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Attending Texas A&M University Corpus Christi was an escape from the perpetual boredom of small town living. My university is on an island and when I would look at the Gulf of Mexico, I can see how vast and boundless it was. It reminded me that there are no limits if you put your mind into something. What makes the Rockies special to me is that when I was fresh out of college, I took a job that was based in Colorado. At the time, I’ve never lived outside of the state of Texas before, so to live (if briefly) in an area where you are close to nature and to see the actual Geology that was spent years in college studying is breath taking.
Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?
There’s usually a 3 step process before I write a book: When brainstorming, I put it in my notes on my Samsung app so that I can refer back to it once I start writing the book. I come up with a book list (usually between 3 to 5 books and or documentaries) to draw my inspiration from. I determine the end goal for each of my characters to achieve, then try to write it according to that pathway plan. Even though certain concepts may change or pop up, I always make sure to have a definitive outcome for each character.
Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Fire Line Revival Of The Dracocernentia’ book?
Before the pandemic, I had about 14,000 words written which took me about a week. Then when I resumed writing, it took me 5 months to complete the manuscript and another 5 months to save up to pay for the editing and revising.
Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?
The kindle version is available on Amazon. The Hardcopy can be bought anywhere; however due to distribution issues it isn’t available on Amazon yet. The best place to order the book is on Barnes and Noble website. Type in the search bar, Fire Line Generational Burst and the book will be available for purchase.
Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?
When I was thinking about writing the book, I knew that I wanted to create a cover that was eye popping and easy to gravitate to. Because of my inexperience with the first book, I wanted to simplify it so that it wouldn’t turn potential reader away. With this book, I wanted to include the 2 animals essential to the story: the dragon and the phoenix as well as the best representative of the lead character. I hired a graphic designer off Fiverr.com to bring what was once a sketch to life. I look at the concepts, asked her to do some modifications, and then ok the final product.
Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?
To do that, I would first make sure I’m listening to music while writing to keep my creative juices flowing. I would listen to Hip-Hop, R&B, Smooth Jazz, and even instrumentals that best associate with a particular chapter (such as Native American chants or flutes during the chapters that deal with the Seminoles). The other thing that I would do is incorporate some of my life experiences, then incorporate them into my stories. Writing is therapeutic, because often times we don’t know how to express in words how we feel or what makes us tick. By infusing my emotions into characters, I can visually see what I would do in those situations, how I would feel in those situations, then write them out in the best detail possible. Lastly, I never allow myself to sit on an idea (which is where my note app on my phone comes in). When ever I have a block or don’t know how to convey a story, I take a break for a few hours or a few days, draw any kind of inspiration, then proceed to write it out.
Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?
Fire Line is about the lineage of your ancestors, the events that influence the lives of the characters, and the choices they make because of them. One of the things I want the readers to get out of my books is that your well being and view of the world is a continuation of the pages already forged by your ancestors. Most people think that they have to be something else to succeed when in actuality, you just need to look within yourself. I have incorporated a character who has a mental disability who eventually becomes a hero by learning to accept themselves. You will question the motivations and the decisions by the main protagonist while empathizing and relating to the antagonist. I hope that the readers will be able to appreciate the character development, the pace, and the overall message of the book.
“The Guest Aboard the Carpe Diem” is a captivating story penned by the author Celeste M Lennon.
Story features a couple Mason Kendall and Olivia. Story started with the couple throwing a party to friends & family as Mason retired. Mason has worked hard for many years so he could buy his dream boat and spend his retirement sailing around the world. He customized his boat so Olivia and he could have facilities similar to home on the boat. But Olivia was concerned thinking the plan may fail and they should have a home to come back to.
The boat that Mason bought was named Carpe Diem. Mason stayed quite excited about life on water. On the boat, he showed Olivia their living space with lounge area, dining and kitchen. Mason and Olivia invited their friends to the Carpe Diem for a boat warming party. Grab a copy of this book to find out what will happen after the party.
This is a gripping novel. Writing style of the author is amazing. Since I love going on adventures, I loved the adventurous spirit of Mason. Cover photo of the book is lovely. Title couldn’t have been better than this. The story kept me on the edge. I was curious the whole time to find out what will happen next. Go ahead with this book. I am sure you will love it.
“The Praying Mantis Widow’s Revenge” penned by the author Brian Ellis is a horror fiction.
A woman woke up surrounded by twenty dead bodies. She realized she must be on the ship. She doesn’t remember anything about her identity and doesn’t know where her home is. She found a CD with Calla written on it. When the woman checked the CD by inserting it in the laptop, she found a picture of a woman that looked exactly like her. Now, the woman at least knows that she is Calla.
She decided to go to the nearest island by boat. When she reached the shore, a missile was fired on her from the helicopter. She ran in the cave to save herself and killed the two men who were chasing her. Morgan sealed Calla inside the cave. But he returned the next day and captured her. Read this story to find out what will happen next.
Cover photo of the book is nice. Language used in the book is lucid and I enjoyed reading it. Storyline is intriguing. This book kept me on the edge as I read it. I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. The characters are written nicely by the author. I like to recommend it strongly to my fellow readers.
Author: Marie O’Leary Wydra and Megan (Wydra) Mckercher
Available On: Amazon
Language: English
Rating: 5/5
Recently I got my hands on the book “I Knew You Were There” penned by the authors Marie O’Leary Wydra and Megan (Wydra) Mckercher.
This is the story of Marie and her daughter Megan’s. In this book, readers will get to know about Marie’s quest to find her birth mother. Marie had lived a nightmare from the age of two to sixteen. She was separated from her birth mother. Her adoptive mother Mary abused her and another adopted child Michael. Michael and Marie used to stay tired after doing the laundry and cleaning work which Mary burdened them with. There were always bruises on their body that came from beatings by Mary. At the age of sixteen, Marie fled Mary’s house and started living on her own.
Read this story to know how Megan, Marie’s daughter was committed to help Marie in finding her birth mother. I loved Megan’s determination. The way Megan planned trips and helped Marie is something that inspires me. This is a beautiful story that touched my heart. Writing style is amazing. Cover photo of the book is attractive. It’s a book worth reading. I am glad that I got my hands on it. Go for it.
Recently I got my hands on the book “Memoirs of a Single Mother” penned by the author Buruuj Tunsill. Being a mother is difficult but being a single mother is something I couldn’t even imagine. Mothers have lots of responsibilities. A single mother especially has to worry about finances too.
In this memoir, we see Buruuj working multiple jobs. She wasn’t able to give her son Amir enough time. Every dollar means a lot to her. The way Safiyyah looked after Amir is really nice. Buruuj craved for love and she wanted her son to have a father. Having daddy issues herself, Buruuj doesn’t want Amir to experience all that.
Read this memoir to know will Buruuj find love. What more challenges she comes across as a single mother.
If you are looking for a book centered around parenthood in the context of mental health, then go ahead with this book. I enjoyed reading this memoir. This book introduced me to the real world from the eyes of a single mother. Seeing Buruuj concerned about paying bills made me realize the value of money. It’s a book worth reading.
“13 Years of Student Robbery” penned by the author Joshua Jones is a book worth reading.
This is one of the best books that I have read this year. After entering the corporate world, I realized whatever I learnt in school hasn’t prepared me for the real world. In this book, the author has mentioned how in school, students are judged based on their marks and that kills their self-esteem. Also in school, we read many subjects that have no use in our real life. In today’s world, we want work-life balance and entrepreneurial skills is something we aren’t taught in schools. Also, the student loan debt forces graduates to settle for easily available low paying jobs. Read this book and get to know the warning and the author’s say in this.
If you are interested in knowing about the more practical approach to have a profitable career for yourself or your kids, then go ahead with this book.
Writing style of the author is nice with a smooth narration. Language used in the book is lucid. The current education system needs to be changed. This is a short read and it would be worth your time. I agree with the author’s thoughts. Glad to read this book.
‘We’ll Always Have Nantucket’ penned by the author Doreen Burliss is an intriguing read. Story features Teddy who has been visiting Nantucket since childhood to enjoy summer vacations in the cottage they rented. Teddy is single at the age of 27. Teddy rented a carriage house with Cam, Mav, Claire, etc.
Sadie Wilson, Teddy’s mother, was quite excited to spend 4 weeks at her friend Val’s new house. It has been four years since her husband Graham died unexpectedly but that grief is still there. Since her husband’s death, it was the first time that Sadie boarded the Eagle Steamship to go to Nantucket. Read about the time spent by the characters in Nantucket. It was amazing to read about the friendship of Sadie and Val.
Pace of the story is fast and you won’t feel bored anytime while reading it. I loved the Nantucket setting. There are many characters in the story and the author has managed to write them well. The book is well written and the cover photo is lovely. Go for it. I am sure you would be delighted to read it and would feel like exploring Nantucket.
‘An Expectation of Plenty’ penned by the author Thomas Bazar is a part mystery and part revenge tragedy.
Main character of the story is Vincent. The book started with a letter from Vincent’s father. Vincent’s life doesn’t have many details. Since the trauma, his memory was spotty. The story will take you to Lisbon. Vincent had a special gift to hear what others do not. He could hear 2 black holes colliding in the far reaches of some universe.
As the story progresses, we see Vincent getting irritated with Tristao. In fact, Tristao was the least favorite person in the world. Soon, we see Vincent befriending Fausto, a fellow vagrant. Fausto was a strong chess player. He even taught new strategies to Vincent. Read this story to know more about Fausto. Homeless men were found stabbed. Who is behind these murders?
Storyline is intriguing. The twists and turns in the story made it more interesting. Pace of the story is fast and you won’t be bored at all while reading it. The characters are written nicely by the author. Cover photo is amazing. The language used in the book is lucid with a smooth narration. I enjoyed reading this book. Go for it.
Sassy Reviews 