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Interview with author Karen Lee

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

A1. My name is Karen Lee and I live in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I’m a retired clinical psychologist and management consultant who now writes, and teaches memoir. I just had my third book published, The Village That Betrayed its Children.

I have lived in Canada, England and Hawaii and have travelled the world for work and to live. I believe that travel is essential to keep one’s perspective.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Village that Betrayed its Children”

A2. The incidents that are in my book mainly happened in the 1950s and 60s. Also, they didn’t just happen to me, but to all the children in the two-room country school over a period of about eleven years. Our teacher/principal was a pedophile – that is, he was sexually attracted to, and molested girls under the age of twelve. So, most of the girls in the school were molested.

This is a topic many people don’t want to discuss and, indeed, even now, over fifty years later, some people still wouldn’t discuss what had happened in our school and village. But I managed to interview thirty people who talked freely about their experiences.

Also, because so much time had elapsed, people’s memories could be unreliable, so it was good that I had so many testimonies.

Physically this book was difficult because I now live twenty-four hundred miles from my home village. I had to interview people by flying back, connecting on Zoom, phoning and emailing, and had to locate people via word of mouth and Facebook.

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

A3. Memoir books in general. I love Tristine Rainer’s book, Your Life as Story, and have read many memoirs. I also love to research and did some in order to write this book. I researched pedophilia, and also denial to see why people don’t report or do anything about pedophiles.

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

A4. I still love the small villages in the area I grew up in, in Southern Ontario. I’m comfortable there, it is familiar. But I also love the west coast of British Columbia.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Village that Betrayed its Children’?

A5. While I was writing my first memoir, The Full Catastrophe, about domestic violence in my two marriages, I realized that my early childhood experiences in my village two-room school were formative. Because I couldn’t escape my school, where the teacher was a pedophile, I went into denial and that had a huge effect on my choices in life. Through therapy, I have learned not to shut down so much and now am happily married.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Village that Betrayed its Children’?

A6. From start to publication, about five and a half years.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Mainly Amazon.com or .ca but also on my publisher’s website, AOS Publishers, Montreal

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Village that Betrayed its Children’?

A8. The cover of my book shows the setting and the issue – there is an illustration of a small country school, two young girls skipping rope, and a male teacher standing in the shadows beside the school. Many have said it really does represent the issue of our teacher.
The title I first thought of was “Permission to Molest” because I felt that the village in some ways gave this teacher “permission to molest” because they knew what he was doing, but didn’t get him fired. My publisher thought that was too provocative so we changed it to “The Village That Betrayed its Children” which accurately says what happened.

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

A9. I only write things that are of importance to me – not for the commercial value but the human value. I write very carefully and love paying attention to my words, sentences and grammar. I love the process of writing, especially when I am writing something of social import.

A friend calls me “Karen the Revealer” and I like to think that I uncover things of importance to society in general.

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

A10. The old adage “show, don’t tell” is absolutely essential. Give lots of detail to help the reader immerse themselves in the action or thoughts of the story.

Also, keep things simple. Don’t indulge in flowery language, tell it like it is.

Pay attention to the words you use – no adverbs, no repetitions of important words.

Buy The Village That Betrayed Its Children on Amazon

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The Protectors

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Protectors 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Frank Victoria ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Protectors by Frank Victoria is a gripping paranormal fantasy that plunges readers into a world of danger, loyalty, and moral dilemmas. The story revolves around a secretive group called The Protectors, led by Troy, a werewolf with a unique code: he hunts down criminals who harm innocent humans.

The plot thickens with the introduction of Carlo Maggio, a brilliant biologist who once worked tirelessly to create a cure for Lycanthropy—commonly known as werewolfism. Now, Barbara Lane, a determined scientist, has taken up his mission, hoping to find the elusive remedy.

In a strategic move, the police orchestrate decoy scenarios to lure out werewolves. When Troy rushes to save a supposed victim, he’s tranquilized and captured. What follows is a thrilling sequence of events that keeps readers questioning: can The Protectors continue their mission, or will their secret world unravel?

This book captivated me from start to finish. Troy’s character is especially compelling, showcasing strength, vulnerability, and a sense of justice. The pacing is excellent, and the storyline brims with suspense and intrigue. The cover design complements the book’s theme perfectly. If you enjoy tales of werewolves and the paranormal, The Protectors is a must-read.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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He Calls Me Redeemed

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: He Calls Me Redeemed 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Arman Kaymakcian ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“He Calls Me Redeemed: A Memoir of Childhood Sex Abuse, Heroin Addiction, Hope, and Redemption” penned by the author Arman Kaymakcian is an intriguing read. When Arman was a young boy, someone asked him, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” His answer was: he wanted to be a daddy. To Arman, his father’s eyes held both the memories of his past and the promise of his future. Following his parents’ divorce, Arman could only see his dad on weekends. 

His mother’s best friend, Aunt Danielle, was a significant figure in their life. However, she disapproved of Danielle’s boyfriend, Rich. When after a concert visit, Arman stayed at Danielle’s house, he was sexually abused by Rich. The abuse went on for a long time after the first instance.

As a drug dealer, Arman always had dope. No one knew about his heroin habit. Things got ugly when Arman’s mild manageable addiction became an intense obsession. He smoked heroin all day everyday and it consumed every part of him.

Arman kept the abuse a secret with him. He started binge eating and gained so much weight. Over the next two years, his appearance changed. Arman learned about pain, depression and how to cope with them.

The childhood sex-abuse made him angry, confused, lonely, self-destructive, etc. Read this book to discover how his journey shaped his path to manhood. It’s a powerful story of abuse, faith, trauma, recovery, healing and hope. This memoir took me on an emotional rollercoaster, and I’m deeply grateful to the author for sharing such a personal experience. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there’s always light, and God never abandons us. I’m truly glad I had the chance to read this book.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Colin C. Campbell ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Start. Scale. Exit. Repeat” by Colin C. Campbell is an essential read for entrepreneurs and business owners. Drawing from his own experience of founding, growing, and selling multiple businesses, Campbell breaks down the entrepreneurial journey into four pivotal stages: Start, Scale, Exit, and Repeat.

In the “Start” phase, he emphasizes the value of selecting scalable ideas, setting clear goals, and taking decisive action. According to Campbell, vague objectives lead to inaction, while clarity drives progress. Moving to the “Scale” phase, he highlights the importance of building robust systems, suggesting that success isn’t just luck but the result of well-designed processes.

Campbell also sheds light on why many startups struggle to scale, citing key factors like funding, team building, and operational systems. His approach offers a practical framework that can guide readers in creating a sustainable and thriving business.

The book stands out for its clear structure, insightful content, and smooth narration. Campbell keeps his focus sharp, delivering valuable lessons without veering off course. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or looking to refine your business strategies, this book provides actionable guidance for navigating each stage of the entrepreneurial cycle.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Tommy and the Flying Mattress

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Tommy and the Flying Mattress 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Thomas Walker ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Tommy and the Flying Mattress” by Thomas Walker is a delightful children’s book aimed at readers aged 3-5. The story follows Tommy, a spirited young pirate, who dreams of adventure on the open seas. One day, Tommy defies his father’s reminders to tidy his messy room. Frustrated, his father sends him to bed early, and that’s when the real adventure begins.

In his room, Tommy’s mattress takes flight, whisking him away on a magical journey over his neighborhood and out to sea. Soon, he finds himself aboard a pirate ship led by the gruff Captain Ted E. Bear. The captain warns Tommy that life on the ship requires discipline and teamwork. But when Tommy is tasked with mopping the ship, he balks at the idea of doing chores. Will Tommy learn the importance of responsibility and teamwork before he’s forced to walk the plank?

This engaging tale is packed with adventure and humor, while also delivering an important message in a way young readers will enjoy. Walker expertly captures the challenges children face when learning to take responsibility, and Tommy’s journey of self-discovery is both entertaining and relatable. Parents will appreciate the gentle reminder that life lessons can be taught through imaginative storytelling.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Polly Richards

Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

A1. My name is Polly Richards. I’m a retired professional, avid gardener, and now a children’s book author. Gardening has always been a deep passion of mine, inspired by my early years in my great aunt’s English-style garden in Chicago. Through my writing, I aim to connect children with the joys of nature, teach them about the importance of stewardship, and encourage healthier, more sustainable living.

Q2. What is the inspiration behind your book “Adele and the Whispering Garden”?

A2. The inspiration came from my love of gardening and the lessons it has taught me about patience, nurturing, and interconnectedness. I wanted to create a magical story that would inspire children to connect with nature and see the beauty and life within a garden. My fond memories of neighbors like John and Vicki Denning, who were incredible gardeners, also shaped the narrative.

Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. I’ve wanted to write a book since high school, but the idea for ‘Adele and the Whispering Garden’ came to me when I decided to finally pursue writing seriously. It was a moment when I realized I had a story to share that combined my passions for gardening, storytelling, and inspiring children.

Q4. Please tell us something about your book “Adele and the Whispering Garden”

A4. “Adele and the Whispering Garden” is a magical story about a young girl who moves into a new home and discovers a neglected garden on the property. What drives her to care for the garden is Albert, a stone gnome who magically comes to life. As Adele tends to the garden, she realizes the plants can talk—and they have important lessons to share about gardening, caring for the earth, and even herself. The story is brought to life through beautiful illustrations that transition from black and white to vibrant color, symbolizing Adele’s journey of growth and connection.

Q5. For which age group is your book “Adele and the Whispering Garden” suitable for?

A5. It’s perfect for children ages 6–13, though I’ve found that parents and teachers also enjoy the story’s message about gardening and sustainability.

Q6. What is your favorite quote?

A6. “Though the problems of the world are increasingly complex, the solutions remain embarrassingly simple.” — Bill Mollison. It reflects my belief in the simplicity and power of nature to heal and sustain us.

Q7. What do you like the most about your country?

A7. I love the freedom. It’s like no other country in the world and is the very reason my family immigrated here from Ireland. The opportunities and liberties we enjoy are truly unique, and I feel deeply grateful for them.

Q8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

A8. Make reading a shared experience. Read with your children, discuss the stories, and connect them to their lives. For example, after reading “Adele and the Whispering Garden”, you could start a small garden together. It’s a great way to bond and nurture a love of both reading and the natural world.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success to me is seeing children and adults connect with my book. When they notice that the black-and-white illustrations transform into vibrant color as the magic grows and the garden flourishes under loving care, I think, “Yes! They got it!” Seeing classrooms use my book as part of their curriculum—where it’s a reading group choice, science lessons teach botany, and art classes design gardens—would be a dream come true. Success, to me, means sparking change and inspiring both children and adults to embrace the messages in the book, even if that change is gradual.

Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

A10. My late niece, Katelyn Kelly, or “Kiki,” is my greatest inspiration. She passed away unexpectedly from a brain aneurysm, leaving my family devastated. However, what I have learned about her since her passing has deeply inspired me—her acceptance of others, her nonjudgmental nature, her willingness to listen, and her zest for life. She had this incredible ability to impact people in profoundly positive ways. Her parents, Sue and David, and her sister, Marisa, are also sources of inspiration. Despite their immense loss, they face each day with courage and continue to share Kiki’s love and passion with the world. They embody resilience and love, and I strive to carry forward Kiki’s vibrant spirit in my work and life.

Buy Adele and the Whispering Garden on Amazon

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Dave The Series

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Dave The Series 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Cat D ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Dave The Series: We all know a Dave…which one is yours?” is a unique read. The story features Cat and her husband Dave. Dave is a fifty-something year old man. In this book, we meet eBay Dave, Vegetarian Dave, Crypto Dave, Conspiracy Dave, (undiagnosed) ADHD Dave, etc.

In eBay Dave, we meet a version of Dave who hates to shop but spends many hours doing online shopping. His wife Cat reminds him not to overdo comfort shopping. However, Dave gets good deals and Cat appreciates it.

In ‘Holiday Dave’, we meet a version of Dave who is a homebird. Dave doesn’t plan and pack. His wife Cat does everything for him. He scrolls mindlessly not even realising when he stumbles on a fetish site.

In ‘Crypto Dave’, we meet a version of Dave who keeps buying dips but his dips keep dipping. He suggests to his wife that they should sell their house and stick everything in bitcoin. Dave mentions that it only takes one coin to catapult you to the top.

It’s a witty read. I found this book unique and funny. These stories will make you laugh and readers could even relate to a few stories. I loved the characters of Dave and his wife Cat. The writing style of the author is fantastic. I loved every bit of this book. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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Interview with author Sharon Fredrickson

Q1. Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

A1. My name is Sharon Fredrickson, and I write under the pen name Polly Richards. I’m a retired professional, avid gardener, and now a children’s book author. Gardening has always been a deep passion of mine, inspired by my early years in my great aunt’s English-style garden in Chicago. Through my writing, I aim to connect children with the joys of nature, teach them about the importance of stewardship, and encourage healthier, more sustainable living.

Q2. What is the inspiration behind your book “Adele and the Whispering Garden”?

A2. The inspiration came from my love of gardening and the lessons it has taught me about patience, nurturing, and interconnectedness. I wanted to create a magical story that would inspire children to connect with nature and see the beauty and life within a garden. My fond memories of neighbors like John and Vicki Denning, who were incredible gardeners, also shaped the narrative.

Q3. When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. I’ve wanted to write a book since high school, but the idea for ‘Adele and the Whispering Garden’ came to me when I decided to finally pursue writing seriously. It was a moment when I realized I had a story to share that combined my passions for gardening, storytelling, and inspiring children.

Q4. Please tell us something about your book “Adele and the Whispering Garden”

A4. “Adele and the Whispering Garden” is a magical story about a young girl who moves into a new home and discovers a neglected garden on the property. What drives her to care for the garden is Albert, a stone gnome who magically comes to life. As Adele tends to the garden, she realizes the plants can talk—and they have important lessons to share about gardening, caring for the earth, and even herself. The story is brought to life through beautiful illustrations that transition from black and white to vibrant color, symbolizing Adele’s journey of growth and connection.

Q5. For which age group is your book “Adele and the Whispering Garden” suitable for?

A5. It’s perfect for children ages 6–13, though I’ve found that parents and teachers also enjoy the story’s message about gardening and sustainability.

Q6. What is your favorite quote?

A6. “Though the problems of the world are increasingly complex, the solutions remain embarrassingly simple.” — Bill Mollison. It reflects my belief in the simplicity and power of nature to heal and sustain us.

Q7. What do you like the most about your country?

A7. I love the freedom. It’s like no other country in the world and is the very reason my family immigrated here from Ireland. The opportunities and liberties we enjoy are truly unique, and I feel deeply grateful for them.

Q8. What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

A8. Make reading a shared experience. Read with your children, discuss the stories, and connect them to their lives. For example, after reading “Adele and the Whispering Garden”, you could start a small garden together. It’s a great way to bond and nurture a love of both reading and the natural world.

Q9. What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success to me is seeing children and adults connect with my book. When they notice that the black-and-white illustrations transform into vibrant color as the magic grows and the garden flourishes under loving care, I think, “Yes! They got it!” Seeing classrooms use my book as part of their curriculum—where it’s a reading group choice, science lessons teach botany, and art classes design gardens—would be a dream come true. Success, to me, means sparking change and inspiring both children and adults to embrace the messages in the book, even if that change is gradual.

Q10. Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

A10. My late niece, Katelyn Kelly, or “Kiki,” is my greatest inspiration. She passed away unexpectedly from a brain aneurysm, leaving my family devastated. However, what I have learned about her since her passing has deeply inspired me—her acceptance of others, her nonjudgmental nature, her willingness to listen, and her zest for life. She had this incredible ability to impact people in profoundly positive ways. Her parents, Sue and David, and her sister, Marisa, are also sources of inspiration. Despite their immense loss, they face each day with courage and continue to share Kiki’s love and passion with the world. They embody resilience and love, and I strive to carry forward Kiki’s vibrant spirit in my work and life.

Buy Adele and the Whispering Garden on Amazon

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Interview with author Kody Roby

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

A1. Hello everybody reading, my name is Kody Roby, I am a 23 year old science fiction writer from Stafford, Brisbane, Australia. In my spare time I am a musician and songwriter on Youtube, Making awesome stuff is my life and always will be.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Dead Man’s Detail”?

A2. Writing Dead Man’s Detail had many challenges, but most of all was the dialogue between Alistair and Edgar, both are well educated men and neither are shy about saying harsh things to one another and actively choosing to be cruel or vicious with words is not my standard practice, so it took some time to get used to.

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

A3. C.S Lewis is a massive inspiration, the way in which he introduces theological and metaphysical questioning to the reader is so important. I am an enormous fan of giving as much as I can contextually in my stories but never really pushing an agenda or a point, that is for the audience to decide, not for me to grandstand.

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

A4. My best friend, the brilliant Mr Moss introduced me to Daisy Hill Koala Sanctuary and never have I experienced such calm and peace as walking around the bush and spectating those little grey cuties eating leaves and sleeping in their branches.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Dead Man’s Detail’?

A5. I love monsters, big time. But something about people who write monster stories is they become far too obsessed in one direction, too much monsters or not enough. Too far in either direction can lead to shlock or quite camp narratives. My entire intention behind Dead Man’s Detail was to ground a world where monsters exist and the men who fight them take it very seriously. The backdrop being post WW1 helps kept me earnest and realistic with telling this tale.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Dead Man’s Detail’?

A6. 70 Days, for 70 Days I wrote 1000 words, every day. And before I wrote my next 1000 words I would edit the day’s previous work. Can’t recommend it enough, what a wild 70 days it was.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. Currently only Amazon, but that is subject to change once printed copies become available and the audiobook is finished production.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Dead Man’s Detail’?

A8. The title is titular to the story as ‘Dead Man’s Detail’ was the first spark of inspiration for the complex web of plot points I had to come up with. The art was concocted by the brilliant artist manu.dilo on instagram after I explained the premise he offered up the incredible visual we see today.

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

A9. Always follow the feeling, if there is a hint of an emotion boiling under a scene, peel everything else away and follow the feeling. I found in my editing that a scene felt bland because the characters were talking but not listening to one another, then upon the re-read, I would find the emotion and rewrite their conversations with that emotion on display at the core of the scene, always left me very ecstatic afterwards.

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

A10. Show up.

Buy Dead Man’s Detail on Amazon

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Tugnutt’s Creek

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Tugnutt’s Creek 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Nate Yacos & Colette Freedman ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Meet Ted Tugnutt, an ordinary man living an unremarkable life. Ted never stood out—in fact, his entire existence could be summed up as the epitome of average. He’s married to a wife who’s far out of his league and has a daughter who is uniquely extraordinary, yet Ted himself has never ventured beyond the boundaries of mediocrity.

At work, his boss, Gecko, despises him—not for incompetence, but for being frustratingly untouchable. Ted performed his duties just well enough to avoid criticism but never excelled enough to shine, leaving Gecko with no grounds to fire him. But one fateful morning, everything changed. When Ted witnessed a nun being beaten, something deep within him stirred. For the first time, he decided he couldn’t remain passive, especially in the face of Gecko’s tyrannical behavior.

In a moment of rebellion, Ted released the butterflies that Gecko had cruelly captured, an act that became a personal symbol of hope and liberation.

This story captures Ted’s journey of self-discovery, as he confronts complacency and learns the value of taking a stand. It’s a relatable tale for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in the monotony of their job or life, offering a spark of inspiration. With its concise storytelling, this thought-provoking narrative is perfect for a quick yet impactful read. Highly recommended for those who enjoy stories of personal growth and quiet rebellion.

  • 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

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