Tuesday, March 19, 2024

The Cyclopes’ Eye by Jeffrey Haskey-Valerius ***Teaser Tuesday***

 

 YA Dystopian, Soft Sci-Fi

Date to be Published: 04-09-2024

Publisher: NineStar Press























 

First they came for his sister’s eye. Now they’re coming for his. And what’s even worse is he deserves it.

Henry has never had anything good happen to him, period. Full stop. That’s why, after school, he’s going to put on his big-boy pants and confess his love to his best friend—because the universe owes him one, dammit, and he needs a win.

But maybe doing it on Drill Day wasn't the best idea—the one day a month that healthcare conglomerate Axiom infiltrates schools across America to select a new candidate to give up one of their eyes, for... research? And if this Drill Day is anything like the last, Henry will never get a chance at a good life. Especially if his past keeps threatening to eat him alive, and especially if his old ways of keeping the darkness at bay refuse to work anymore.

 

Excerpt

I hate attention. I hate causing a scene. I hate being noticed. And I’m very, very aware that, right now, that is exactly what’s happening. I’m also noticing how sweaty I am. My face is either ghost white or bile green. Or beet red. All three?

A part of me knows they can’t be looking at me any worse than they usually do, though. Poor Henry with his one-eyed sister. Poor Henry with his drunk of a dad. Poor Henry with his convict of a mother.

I think about reaching down to my thigh to catapult me out of this moment, the tangle of cuts and scars I could squeeze and knead like dough so the jolt of hurt would replace this ache of embarrassment. But I can’t. Not here.

We take the third speed bump slower than the last two, but I still feel touch-and-go. At this point, the best option is to just get out of here as fast as I can. Since I’m already standing when we pull into the parking spot, I don’t wait for all the people in front of me to get off first. I march right on up to the front like I own this bus. And you know what? For right now, I do, fuckers.

“You in a hurry or something?” asks the driver. He removes his shades to reveal two very intact and very brown eyes. His fist is wrapped around the lever to open the door, but he’s not opening it.

I wasn’t expecting this, and with each second, my blood feels thicker and thicker, like sludge. I mumble something about a test I have to study for.

“One day you’ll realize life’s about more than school,” he says, believing, I’m sure, that he’s being very profound at six-thirty.

I just nod and smile, hoping my face doesn’t betray my anguish.

He smirks and finally pulls the lever, and the door squeaks and sighs as it opens. I jump down the stairs, and I must go a little too fast because there’s no way I can hold it in anymore. I’ve got to puke, and I’ve got to puke now.

I race around to the front of the bus, shielded on all sides by other buses that I really hope are empty, and let it go.

It’s so painful coming up, like someone is stabbing me. My eyes flutter open and closed as it comes pouring out, and it’s like I’m watching myself in stop motion. It forms puddles around my feet. Some of it gets on my shoes.

It’s hot and gross, and some of it sprays up into my nose, which might make me puke more. I try to be quiet so nobody will hear me, but the bus engine is so loud that it probably doesn’t matter. Or maybe that’s delirious thinking. Maybe the driver is watching from his window right now. But if anybody does come over to see, they don’t wait around long enough to say anything.

A minute later, when I’m sure it’s all out of me, I feel light, free. Empty. I think this might be the best I’ve ever felt in my life. Maybe I can read this poem today. Maybe Sam will respond the way I want. I should puke more often.

Everything in me goes still and quiet. It’s almost like I’m floating through fog as I wind my way through the maze of buses all parked in a cluster. I’m so light, it feels like a dream. Like I’m not real. Is this what it’s like to get high?

As soon as I round the last bus, I come down.

If getting sick was a dream, reality is not worth waking up for. The nightmare of my life is as bleak as it’s ever been.

Ah, yes, here we are. Drill Day.

Across the parking lot, a few hundred feet away, is the entire student body—two thousand of my peers. They’ve been rounded up like cattle in front of school, their incessant chatter like primal, god-fearing cries for help before being led to slaughter. And just like real cattle, they know there’s no escape.

But at least the cows get to die before their mutilation

 

 

About the Author

Jeffrey Haskey-Valerius works in healthcare by day and writes weird fiction and poetry by night. His shorter work has been featured in numerous literary journals and has been nominated for prizes, including Best of the Net. He currently lives in the Midwest with his unbelievably handsome and perfect dog, and also a human whom he loves. The Cyclopes’ Eye is his debut novel.

 

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Monday, March 18, 2024

Code of Reanimation by Lanie Mores

 

 

 Spin-off of the Father of Contention series

 

Paranormal Thriller, Science Fiction, Horror

Date Published: 11-14-2023





























 

 

Freedom is a state of mind.

Brigita Nowak has only ever wanted one thing—her freedom. Labelled psychotic and committed to a mental institution at seventeen, she missed the chance of a “normal” life. She never held a job, owned her own place, or experienced love. Until now.

After awakening sprawled on the common room floor—the hospital in ruins, the staff and patients missing—she realizes it’s her chance to escape. Seeking sanctuary with her sister, she meets “the boyfriend” Renner Scholz, a vile yet brilliant geneticist. He has developed a bioweapon, the Code of Reanimation, destined to destroy the world. Or so Brigita believes. She’s been seeing zombie hallucinations as of late, a sure premonition of the highly contagious bioweapon getting out of hand. Why the connection? Because the bioweapon reanimates dead organisms into bloodthirsty killing machines.

Brigita has typically experienced death-based hallucinations, blamed on her mental illness. She, however, always felt they were psychic premonitions. Convinced that Renner intends to release the bioweapon at a public fundraising event, she teams up with a handsome love interest to thwart the catastrophe. But, as Brigita’s visions kick into hyperdrive and timelines blur, she must determine which events are based on reality or delusional constructs of her subconscious mind...

before it’s too late.




About the Author


Lanie Mores is the award-winning author of the science fiction and fantasy book series, Father of Contention. She has an Honours Bachelor of Science Degree, a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology, and she is an active member of the Canadian Authors Association. When she isn't writing, you'll find her reading, binge-watching Netflix, baking, and slaughtering zombies and other monsters on her Xbox. She lives in Ontario with her family and forever barking fur babies, Batman and Petri.

 




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Friday, March 15, 2024

The Other Murder by Kevin G. Chapman Genre: Mystery, Suspense

 

 


Sometimes, the most dangerous thing . . . is the truth. 

The Other Murder

by Kevin G. Chapman

Genre: Mystery, Suspense 

 “A sleek, gripping thriller that raises important questions about truth and justice.” ~Kirkus Reviews


FINALIST -- 2023 CLUE AWARD


Sometimes, the most dangerous thing . . . is the truth.


For disgraced cable news producer Hannah Hawthorne, covering the shooting of a pretty NYU sophomore is a chance for redemption. When the story snowballs into a media circus, Hannah’s reporting fans the sensationalistic flames and earns her acclaim. The tragic murder, seemingly the result of random urban gun violence, prompts protests and vigils that further magnify the story.

Meanwhile, Paulo, a reporter for a small online neighborhood newspaper, is following the other murder in Washington Square Park that same night – a Hispanic teen. He discovers an unexpected connection that is political dynamite. When Hannah and Paulo team up, they uncover disturbing facts, leading them to question everything they thought they knew. Their reporting also leads them to the man who might be the killer.
When the story is ready to explode, the truth may be hotter than anyone can handle. Breaking the next scoop could ruin Paulo’s paper and wreck Hannah’s career – and it could get them both killed.

If you like David Baldacci's page-turners, Michael Connelly’s cops, and Sara Paretsky’s quirky characters, you will love The Other Murder.


What readers are saying:


With intelligent characters and believable dialogue, Chapman has managed to create a riveting whodunit that also speaks volumes about social issues plaguing the justice system. . . . The social issues are skillfully woven into the narrative, making readers seriously consider these problems even when they’re immersed in conversations with possible snitches and the chaos of climactic shooting scenes.” ~Kirkus Reviews


"Haunting, chilling, and heroic . . . a must-read novel." ~Chanticleer Book Review (5-star "Best Book") 


Chapman once again knocks it out of the park.” “The author did a superb job of developing all the essential players.” ~Feathered Quill Book Reviews

Chapman's attention to building a fast-paced story filled with satisfyingly unpredictable twists and turns creates a memorable, compelling saga. . . .  

Worthy of a top recommendation.” ~Midwest Book Review


The Other Murder will grip you from the start and keep you reading through all the twists and turns until the surprising end.” ~ReadorRot.com


Magnificent.” “An excellent story, it is a must read for mystery-suspense/thriller lovers!” 

~InD’Tale Magazine


The story is a mystery that kept me involved as the different pieces of the whole story came to light. But there is also a side story that sent my thoughts off on tangents, pondering the press, what we can and should expect from them. Chapman’s story ought to get us all thinking.”

 ~Big Al, Big Al’s Books & Pals (5-stars)


The writing is gorgeous, the narrative is filled with realism and mystery, and the action moves in unexpected directions.” ~The Book Commentary (5-stars)


Absolutely chilling. It's a gripping and harrowing storyline! A great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. This is one of those books that grabs you from the start and pulls you in.”

~Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews (5-stars)


A captivating story with a thought-provoking premise.” ~Bookpleasures.com


Fans of a ‘whodunit?’ mystery will love trying to piece together this mystery. . . . With its suspense, mystery, and twists, this book is a must-read.” ~ Georgia Lyonhyde for Reedsy Discovery


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Kevin G. Chapman is an attorney specializing in labor and employment law. In 2021, Kevin finished the first five books in the Mike Stoneman Thriller series: Righteous Assassin (CLUE Award finalist), Deadly Enterprise (Kindle Book Award semi-finalist), Lethal Voyage, (Winner of the 2021 Kindle Book Award, CLUE finalist, RONE finalist), Fatal Infraction (Best Police Procedural of the year – CLUE Award), and Perilous Gambit. In late 2022, Kevin published a stand-alone mystery/thriller titled Dead Winner (CLUE Award - Best Suspense/Thriller of the year). Kevin is a resident of Central New Jersey and is a graduate of Columbia College and Boston University School of Law. Readers can contact Kevin via his website at www.KevinGChapman.com.


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The Morbid Alphabet Book by Gabrielle Ferrara

 

 

 


Children's Book

Date Published: July 2022

 

 

The Morbid Alphabet Book combines a love of the macabre with learning the alphabet. This fully illustrated book is the perfect educational tool for children curious about the world around them. Each page features a different letter paired with a morbid word and corresponding definition. Not only will children learn their alphabet, but they will expand their vocabulary at the same time!


From A to Z, The Morbid Alphabet Book is sure to educate and entertain.

 

 

About the Author


Gabrielle Ferrara is an artist and entrepreneur who creates Victorian-inspired art and jewelry with ethically sourced animal remains. She has a master's degree in Museum Studies and undergraduate degrees in Anthropology and Art History. Gabrielle enjoys spending her free time with family, venturing down the rabbit hole of obscurity, and talking about dinosaurs.

 



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Thursday, March 14, 2024

Breaking the Silence: Confronting Guilt and Shame in the Chronic Pain World by Deb Morgan Genre: Nonfiction Self-Help for Chronic Pain Sufferers

 


 It's time to have a conversation about chronic pain and break the silence and shatter the stigma! Reading this book can help one navigate through chronic pain and overcome feelings of shame and guilt, and it also facilitates open communication between chronic pain sufferers and their loved ones.


Breaking the Silence:

Confronting Guilt and Shame in the Chronic Pain World

by Deb Morgan

Genre: Nonfiction Self-Help for Chronic Pain Sufferers 

"Breaking The Silence Receives A 5-Star Editorial Book Review Awarded By Reader's Favorite 2024!"

Deb Morgan, the author of the Amazon best-selling memoir "Graceful Agony: An Intimate Memoir of Living with Fibro & Chronic Fatigue," has published a new book titled "Breaking The Silence: Confronting Guilt and Shame in the Chronic Pain World" for readers who suffer from chronic pain, and loved ones.

According to the 'Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,' as of 2021, approximately 20.9% of U.S. adults (51.6 million people) experienced chronic pain, and 6.9% (17.1 million people) experienced high-impact chronic pain. Along with the diagnosis of chronic pain, which is beyond one's control, it can induce feelings of shame and guilt that most times come from stigma.

'Breaking The Silence' is an exceptional and easy-to-read guidebook that offers various tools and techniques to help those diagnosed with chronic pain or any chronic illness that involves pain as a symptom. Reading this book can help one navigate through chronic pain and overcome feelings of shame and guilt, and it also facilitates open communication between chronic pain sufferers, their families, and friends.

"The author emphasizes throughout this book that "No one should face suffering in silence."


**Get it for Only .99cents 3/14 & 3/15 , then On Sale for Only $1.99 until March 18th!!**

*Paperback on sale for Only $5.75!*

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Author Debra Morgan wrote her #1 Amazon best-selling memoir, released April 2023, titled "Graceful Agony: An Intimate Memoir of Living with Fibro & Chronic Fatigue." Debra's new book, "Breaking The Silence: Confronting Guilt and Shame in the Chronic Pain World" was released in 2024 for readers suffering from high-impact Chronic pain. 

Debra is an influential writer whose books are real-life journeys through topics of Recovery from Addiction, Fibromyalgia, Mental health, and High-impact Chronic Pain. Her knowledge is from personal experiences; her goal is to help others with support and hope and to know they are not alone. All her books are available on Amazon Kindle and B&N and featured on fine literary book sites.

For Deb, it was not about being a survivor but learning to thrive again while easing the path for others facing their fibro challenges. The author was born and raised in Colorado and lived in Arizona until 2012 when she moved to Oregon. Meanwhile, missing her grown children and grandchildren, she moved back to Arizona in 2021. She has been featured as a guest on many podcasts and radio shows, sharing her recovery journey while raising awareness about addiction. She has maintained sobriety since 1993. 

With her diagnosis of Fibro in 2005 and other medical conditions, she is committed to her recovery of healing while helping others do the same as a tireless advocate and a woman who has come out the other side of addictions, trauma, and much more as a "Survivor and Warrior." Today, Deb is focused on writing and sharing her experiences with Fibro and chronic fatigue/pain; as heart-tugging as the downside can be, it is one of pure perseverance. 

The author has been happily married to her soulmate and is a mother of two grown, successful children. She enjoys reading, painting, and traveling when not advocating, speaking, or writing. Her "#1 happy place" is spending much time with all the grandchildren she adores. Deb and her husband continue to reside in Chandler, Arizona.


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Bretisms by Bret Davis

 

 


























Adopted, Borrowed and Modified Philosophies For a Life with LESS ANXIETY and MORE CONFIDENCE

 

Nonfiction / Self-Help

Date Published: January 29, 2024

Publisher: MindStir Media

 

This book contains a collection of sayings, thoughts, and life lessons that have helped to reduce my level of stress and anxiety while building confidence in myself and others. Some are mine, and others I have heard and adopted either as is or marginally tailored to become mine over the years. I repeat these sayings to myself and others almost daily. By reading these healthy reminders on a daily basis you will come to realize a healthier outlook on life, find others treat you with more kindness and respect all while building confidence in yourself and your abilities.

 

About the Author


Born in Youngstown Ohio, with stops throughout his life in Michigan, NJ, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Florida, Ohio (again) Georgia and Texas. Bret Davis is a born salesman. With the love of his wife of twenty-eight years, Kelly, and their two sons, Blake and Connor, he has achieved his dreams and more. Starting from a door-to-door salesman, he has worked his way up to executive-level positions with multiple companies in the medical field. Throughout his trials and experiences in the sales industry, Bret has come to understand people and that the way we all work holds a unique value. Today, he and his family reside in Houston, Texas.

 

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