Mayra Calvani

Mayra Calvani writes fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She´s co-author of The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing, a ForeWord Best Book of the Year Award Winner and a 2011 Global eBooks Award Winner. She´s had over 300 stories, articles, interviews and reviews published both online and in print, in publications such as The Writer, Writer´s Journal, Acentos Review, Bloomsbury Review, Mosaic, and Multicultural Review, among many others. A reviewer for more than a decade, she now offers numerous book reviewing workshops online. She also offers workshops on the art of picture book writing. She´s represented by Mansion Street Literary and Savvy Literary. For her children´s books, visit www.MayrasSecretBookcase.com. Mayra is a proud member of the Working Writer´s Club.

Articles by Mayra Calvani

An Imminent Nazi Resurgence?
The premise is ambitious, the stakes are high. Hitler´s Silver Box is a well-written novel full of non-stop action and suspense.
Award-winning Fashion Designer and Consultant Karen Moller Writes Memoir
If you're interested in the private lives of people who make the fashion world, how they started and how they got to the top, you might want to pick up a copy of Karen Moller's memoir, Technicolor Dreamin': The 1960's Rainbow and Beyond.
A Conversation with Dr. Allen Malnak, Author of Hitler's Silver Box
Dr. Allen Malnak talks about his suspense thriller, Hitler's Silver Box, novel of non-stop action.
Book Review: The Underlying Hand: Book One of "The Divine Chronicles," by Roger P. Koch
What is the spiritual cost of a super-advanced society? Is immortality worth pursuing? Is it the law of the universe for the stronger to dominate the weaker? Is there such a thing as a soul or consciousness?
Book Review: A World of His Own: In the Land of the Creoles, by Arlette Gaffrey
A World of His Own is an enjoyable historical novel set in New Orleans in the early 1800's.
Interview with YA Fantasy Author D.L. Reynolds
Please welcome my special guest, D.L. Reynolds. Reynolds is the author of the YA Christian fantasy, Darla Jade and the Balance of the Universe, the first book in this his new series for fans of fantasy and adventure fiction.
New Novel about the Aztecs and the Spanish Conquest
Magic, history, sorcery, mysticism, spirituality, fantasy, and magical realism combine to create an original, intriguing story that will capture your imagination.
Book Review: The Lucky Baseball: My Story in a Japanese-American Internment Camp
The Lucky Baseball is a highly entertaining and educational novel about a young Japanese-American boy whose dream is to become a famous baseball player.
Book review: Darla Jade and the Balance of the Universe, by D. L. Reynolds
Darla Jade and the Balance of the Universe is part of an exciting YA series for fans of fantasy, adventure and Christian literature.
A Lyrical Tale, a Little Magic, and a Lot of Storytelling
Interview with Kai Strand, author of The Weaver.
Interview with Nancy Stewart, author of Sea Turtle Summer
Nancy is the bestselling author of the four Bella and Britt Series books for children: One Pelican at a Time (eighteen weeks on Amazon Bestselling List), Sea Turtle Summer, Bella Saves the Beach and Mystery at Manatee Key.
Book review: Point Deception, by Jim Gilliam
Like his protagonist, Jim Gilliam ran away from home and joined the Coast Guard at 14. He has recently retired from the Navy's Military Sealift Command and is currently writing the sequel to his novel.
Book Review: Becoming: The Life & Musings of a Girl Poet, by Nadia Janice Brown
If you enjoy poetry or have a friend or family member who does, I recommend you grab a copy of this uplifting collection.
Book Review: The Silent and the Lost, by Abu Bin Mohammed Zubair
The Silent and the Lost is a novel worth reading and one that historical fiction fans will find appealing and out of the ordinary.
Book Review: How to Tell A Great Story, by Aneeta Sundararaj
After a brief introduction, Sundararaj takes beginners through all the steps necessary to become a great storyteller, from vital preparation, to understanding themes, to the reasons for telling a great story, to painting your setting and much more.
Halloween Special: Buy 1 Book, Get 2 Free
To celebrate the release of my novel, Embraced by the Shadows, I'm giving away two other books for free. Offer lasts until Halloween.
Review of The Adventures of Zeppi: New Friends
This is the first installment in The Adventures of Zeppi series and the beginning of their escapades.
Book Review: Diary of a Beverly Hills Matchmaker, by Marla Martenson
Have you ever wondered what it's like to be the head matchmaker of a high-class Beverly Hills dating service?
Exciting New Penguin Series for Kids
After a career in the corporate world, Charlotte K. Omillin decided to dedicate her time to writing and illustrating stories for children. She´s the author of The Adventures of Zeppi series. A lover of nature and the environment, Omillin interweaves the ecological theme in her series. In it, Zeppi the penguin and his friends learn how to take care of our planet.
What You Should Know Before You Remarry
Have you gone through a divorce, found a new partner and are considering remarrying? Perhaps you´re afraid of making the same mistake twice and are thinking of living together first? Do you wonder if you´re doing the right thing?
Review of Dina's Lost Tribe, by Brigitte Goldstein
Dina´s Lost Tribe is a historical novel that weaves four different stories and spans from the 14th century to our present time.
Interview with Shirley Roe, author of Dreams and Nightmares
Shirley Roe is an author and Managing Editor for Allbooks Review International.
Interview with Liesel Soley, author of Can You Be an Artist?
Liesel Soley, a graduate of the Juilliard School of Music and Fulbright scholar in Paris, France, is a professional violinist.
Interview with Janelle Meraz Hooper, author of Bears in the Hibiscus
Janelle Meraz Hooper is an Anglo-Hispanic writer who was born in Oklahoma; she now lives in Washington State. An award-winning author, her books are character-driven and lean heavily on the lives and challenges of women.
Interview with Horror Author Vincent Hobbes
Horror author Vincent Hobbes talks about his latest book, The Endlands.
Book Review: Can You Be an Artist? by Liesel Soley
Can You Be an Artist? is a wonderful book that introduces children to the arts and unleashes their creativity.
Book Review: First Love, Last Dance, by Nancy Rossman
The author wrote the memoir as a gift and tribute to her mother Elise. What a wonderful gift to offer a mother! If you´re a fan of true love stories, you must pick this one up. This book will also make a lovely gift on Valentine´s Day.
New Political Thriller Hits the Stands
The next presidential election is getting near… and handsome, charismatic Senator Howard Stark wants to become president. There´s only one problem: He´s possessed by Sargatanas, a powerful demon who wants to unleash all evil on earth.
Alexandra Sokoloff Pens Thriller Novel for Young Adults
I highly recommend The Space Between to fans of dark YA thrillers as well as to those readers who like a sprinkle of science in their books.
Violinist and Author Gerald Elias talks about his novel, DEATH AND THE MAIDEN
"If you´ve ever played in a string quartet, you´ll know it doesn´t take very long before everyone wants to kill each other," states the author.
Book review: If I Bring You Roses, by Marisel Vera
Award-winning, first-time novelist Marisel Vera pens an honest, heart-felt, often sad tale of an idealistic, naïve Puerto Rican girl named Felicidad who goes to America to be with the man she loves.
Book Review: Aloni Gabriel & Butterfly/Aloni Gabriel & Mariposa, by Elena Iglesias
Aloni Gabriel & Butterfly/Aloni Gabriel & Mariposa is an illustrated, bilingual story (English/Spanish) for middle-grade readers. Like The Little Prince, it is a deeply insightful fable that both educates and entertains.
Meet Darby Karchut, author of the new young adult novel, Griffin Rising
For centuries, rumors have abounded of a lowly caste of supernatural beings known as the Terrae Angeli. Armed with the power to control Earth, Fire, Wind and Water, these warriors secretly serve as guardians for mortals in danger.
Interview with Paula Meseroll, co-author of Little Hot Mama: The Flossie Turner Lewis Story
Flossie´s story is the inspiring tale of one woman´s struggle to make a successful life for herself and her children, despite the roadblocks of racism and illiteracy.
Book review: Latitude 38, by Ron Hutchison
If you´re looking for something different to read this summer, I highly recommend you grab a copy of Hutchison´s controversial, adventure-filled novel, Latitude 38.
Is It Really Worth It to Live Forever?
Christine Amsden´s second novel, The Immortality Virus, raises an intriguing question: Is it really all that wonderful to find the secret of immortality and live forever?
FireSong, a new novel by mystery author Aaron Paul Lazar
FireSong is the fifth instalment in the Gus LeGarde mystery series and talented author Aaron Paul Lazar doesn´t disappoint, hooking readers right from the beginning and keeping them turning pages with a series of unexpected twists and turns.
Interview with Christine Amsden, author of The Immortality Virus
The Immortality Virus is a far-future science fiction novel that asks: "What if the entire human race stopped aging?"
Mystery Author Aaron Paul Lazar Talks About his Latest Novel
Aaron Paul Lazar writes to soothe his soul. The author of LeGarde Mysteries, Moore Mysteries, and Tall Pines Mysteries enjoys the Genesee Valley countryside in upstate New York, where his characters embrace life, play with their dogs and grandkids, grow sumptuous gardens, and chase bad guys. Visit h...
Book review: Instant Poetry, by Larry Berger
The author, ´Laughing´ Larry Berger, ´wrote´ or improvised these poems onstage as part of an audience participation free verse sets at coffee houses in Los Angeles in 1996.
Meet Ron Hutchison, author of Latitude 38
Latitude 38 is a love story set in the future. It plays out against a backdrop of swirling social and political change, and tells the story of Diego Sanchez and his wife Adriana, a couple deeply in love.
Interview with Cuban Author and Playwright Teresa Dovalpage
Teresa has a Ph.D. in Latin American Literature and is the author of five novels, three in Spanish and two in English, and a collection of short stories in Spanish.
Author Susan Goldsmith Talks About Her New Urban Fantasy Novel, ABITHICA
First-time novelist Susan Goldsmith talks about her journey to publication, her creative process, and shares some useful tips with aspiring writers.
Interview with Latina Author and Artist Anna-Marie Lopez
Please welcome my special guest, artist, musician and novelist Anna-Marie Lopez. Her first novel, The Tortilla Children, has just been published by Onda Books and was inspired by her father.
Interview with Donna McDine, author of The Golden Pathway
Donna McDine is an award-winning children's author whose stories have been featured in multiple print and online publications. Her first book, The Golden Pathway, is about a boy who befriends a slave during the civil war. It is an illustrated story book for older readers (ages 9-12). Donna is a mem...
From Space Scientist to Novelist: A Conversation with Bob Boan
Bob Boan is with us today to talk about his latest coming-of-age novel, Bobby Becomes Bob, published by Twilight Times Books.
Lady Q, The Rise and Fall of a Latin Queen
Offering a rarely seen female perspective on gang life, this raw and powerful memoir tells not only of one woman’s struggle to survive the streets but also of her ascent to the top ranks of the new mafia, where the only people more dangerous than rival gangs were members of her own.
A Conversation with Suspense Author Anne K. Edwards
Suspense author Anne K. Edwards talks about her latest novel, Shadows Over Paradise.
Book review: Book of Shadows, by Alexandra Sokoloff
Book of Shadows combines the excitement of a supernatural thriller, the chills of a horror novel, and the mystery of a crime story.
Book review: Shadows over Paradise, by Anne K. Edwards
The exotic setting, polished narration, tight plot and strong atmosphere of menace make this story a must read for lovers of the genre.
Chills, Thrills and Spells in Alexandra Sokoloff's New Novel, Book of Shadows
Alexandra Sokoloff talks about her new supernatural thriller, Book of Shadows.
New Picture Book On the Effects of Moving House
I highly recommend reading this to a child who has recently experience a ´big change,´ such as moving house, welcoming a new sibling or step parent into a home, or going into a new school.
Children's Author Nicole Weaver Helps Haiti's Earthquake Victims
Children's author Nicole Weaver donates part of her book's proceeds to Haiti's earthquake victims.
Interview with Margot Finke, author of "Ruthie and the Hippo's Fat Behind"
Australian author Margot Finke talks about her new rhyming book for children.
Interview with Silvio Sirias, author of Bernardo and the Virgin
Award-winning Nicaraguan-American writer Silvio Sirias discusses his works, writing and publishing.
New Mystery Novel About a Stradivarius Violin
Interview with concert violinist, conductor and composer Gerald Elias, author of DEVIL'S TRILL.
Interview with Mary Cunningham, author of The Magician's Castle
Mary Cunningham is the author of the award-winning tween fantasy/mystery series, Cynthia's Attic, which was inspired by a recurring dream about a mysterious attic.
Book Review: A Deadly Habit, by Andrea Sisco
A Deadly Habit is an unusual mystery as far as mysteries go. It is laugh-out-loud funny and features a feisty, willful heroine that will both test your patience and steal your heart.
Review of Operation Emu, by B. Brandon Barker
Third-rate Hollywood actors and top NASA astronauts come together in this quirky, hilarious romp of a novel.
Interview with Puerto Rican Poet Luivette Resto
My guest today is Puerto Rican poet Luivette Resto. Although Luivette was born in Aguas Buenas, Puerto Rico, she was raised in the Bronx. She graduated from Cornell University with a BA in English Literature and a minor in U.S. Latino Studies. Later, she earned her MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Currently, she teaches English at Citrus College and Mt. San Antonio College. Her poems have been published in publications such as Latino Today, Mija Magazine, Harpur Palate, The Furnace Review, and Falling Star Magazine. She most recently published her first collection of poetry titled Unfinished Portrait.
New Promotional Site for Latino/a Authors
I have some exciting news to share. There's a new hot spot for Latino authors to promote their work: Bronzeword Latino Authors. Run by award-winning author Jo Ann Hernandez, this new site is aimed at spreading the work and accomplishments of Hispanic authors worldwide. Jo Ann will be offering various promotional services, including virtual book tours. Here to talk about her new endeveour and the Latino book market is Jo Ann herself.
Interview with Rebeca Gomez Galindo
Rebeca Gomez Galindo talks about her books and writing life.
Interview with Mystery Author Marta Stephens
Mystery author Marta Stephens talks about her Sam Harper series.
Interview with Cop and Poet Sarah Cortez
Meet Latino cop, poet and editor Sarah Cortez.
Interview with Latina Author Sandra Rodriguez Barron
Author Sandra Rodriguez Barron talks about her novel, The Heiress of Water.
Interview with Horror Author Joan de la Haye
South African horror author Joan de la Haye talks about her book and writing life.
Review of Is It You, Me, or Your Adult A.D.D.? by Gina Pera
When you hear the term ADD, hyperactive, badly behaved children who do poorly at school come to mind, but this condition doesn´t only affect children. Gina Pera´s book, Is It You, Me, or Your Adult A.D.D.? takes a look at an often ignored aspect of ADD, that of adult ADD.
Review of Living the Vida Lola, by Misa Ramirez
Living the Vida Loca is a fun, entertaining novel.
Review of Hungry Woman in Paris, by Josefina Lopez
Primarily, Hungry Woman in Paris is the story of a young woman trying to find herself in a foreign country. Yet it is so much more than that.
Interview with Robert Shlasko, author of Molly and the Sword
Lovely book about a young violinist.
Book Review: Silenced Cry, by Marta Stephens
A deftly crafted mystery novel written by Marta Stephens, a new author to watch out for.
Book Review: Tucker's Tale, by Christopher Walsh
100% of royalties from this book will be donated to dog rescues nationwide.
Book Review: Only Mortals Can be Heroes: A True Story of Drug Addiction
Disturbing, true story about drug addiction.
Book Review: Rainbow Sheep, by Kim Chatel
Rainbow Sheep is an original, sweet story about a little shepherdess called Genevieve and her flock of sheep.
Interview with Andrea Sisco, Armchair Interviews
A closer look at the art of book reviewing.
Bullfighting: Culture or Cruelty?
In Latin America and Europe combined, approximately 250,000 bulls die each year. Do these bulls fall prey to a deadly virus, perhaps? Far from it. The bulls are tortured and killed for the sake of entertainment. Have we evolved at all since the Roman times?
Interview with Fantasy Author Christopher Hoare
Fantasy author Christopher Hoare talks about his latest novel, The Wildcat's Victory.
Interview with Children's Author Jeff Clineff
Children's author Jeff Clineff talks about his book, TOO MANY KITTIES.
Interview with Mathias B. Freese, author of Down to a Sunless Sea
Award-winning author Mathias B. Freese discusses his latest literary short story collection.
Where Have the Cuddly Teddy Bears Gone? The Inhumane Practice of Bear Farming
Interview with Dena Jones, WSPA US
A Delightful Book About Flamingos
Interview with Children's Author Safari Sue Thurman
Interview with Children's Book Illustrator Kim Sponaugle
Children's book illustrator Kim Sponaugle talks about her work in the children's publishing industry.
Interview with Children's Book Illustrator Kim Sponaugle
Kim Sponaugle is the illustrator of 13 children's picture books. When she was 8 years old, her grandmom entered her picture in a "color the bunny" contest. She won. The prize was a paint-by-numbers set. But Kim soon got bored with the numbers and began painting on her own. With time, her love for dr...
The Responsibilities of Owning a New Puppy
Puppies are not toys. You hear that all the time. But you´d be surprised at the number of people who seem to ignore this. It´s sad, but many people buy a dog, only to return it to the store or breeder—or worse yet, a shelter!—a couple of weeks later because they ´couldn´t handle it´.
Book Review: Down to a Sunless Sea, by Mathias B. Freese
A dark, haunting collection of short stories.
Finding the Perfect Name for Your Puppy
Getting a new puppy is an exciting time for a family. It´s just like the arrival of a new baby! If there are kids in the family, then the event is even more thrilling. Hopefully, you have done your homework and read books on the subject and know all about the responsibilities of owning a new pet. There´s only one thing left to be done: finding the perfect name for your puppy.
Walking on a Rainbow: How I Became a Children´s Book Author
I used to think writing children´s books was boring. Writing for those demanding, whining creatures? Are you kidding? Not for me. No thanks. That was a few years ago.
Norwegian Waters Turn to Blood
Interview with Sharanya Prasad, Marine Mammal Program Officer, WSPA USA.
Rattlesnake Jam, Anyone?
A hilariously funny children´s picture book about an old couple who share an irresistible affection for rattlesnakes.
Two Little Raccoons That Will Steal Your Heart
Interview with children's author Shari Lyle-Soffe.
Time Travel, Magic, and Adventure
Review of Curse of the Bayou, by Mary Cunningham
Hungry for Rattlesnake Jam?
Interview with children's book author Margot Finke.
UNHOLY DOMAIN Combines Science, Adventure and Greed
Interview with author Dan Ronco.
Unleash the Power of your Imagination: Interview with Author, Speaker and Imagist Melissa Zollo
Author, speaker and imagist Melissa Zollo talks about the power of imagination.
Interview with Multi-Genre Author Mary Jean Kelso
Mary Jean Kelso is a journalist and a multi-genre author of adult, young adult, and children's books. In this interview she talks about her latest picture books, illustrated by reknown Oregon artist K.C. Snider.
The Author/Illustrator Relationship Must Be Based on Respect
The secret to work great with an illustrator is mutual respect and communication.
New Book Teaches Children the Dangers of Sunburn
Children's book author Donna J. Shepherd talks about her two new picture books, Ouch! Sunburn! and No More Gunk! both under Guardian Angel Publishing's new Health and Hygiene imprint. Donna, who also writes devotionals, also talks about her working environment, book promotion, and her experience in looking for a publisher, among other things. She offers some sound, wise advice to aspiring authors.
New Fantasy Novel Weaves Elements of Romance, Mysticism and Philosophy
Interview with Fantasy author R. Leigh.
Black Magic, Witches, and a Kicking Supernatural Investigator
Book review of BLACK MAGIC WOMAN, by Justin Gustainis.
Miniature Dachshund is the Hero of this Inspirational True Story
Barbara Techel's first children's picture book is touching and inspirational. It is the true story of a miniature dachshund that falls ill to a paralyzing disease, and how she overcomes all the obstacles while remaining as sweet and gentle as before. The book carries a powerful and important message for children and adults alike.
Interview with Science Fiction Author Lee Denning
Lee Denning is the pen name for father/daughter writing team Denning and Lee Powell.
Black Magic, Witches, Vampires, and a Kick-Ass Supernatural Investigator
Interview with Author Justin Gustainis.
Book Review: MONKEY TRAP, by Lee Denning
An impressive and ambitious debut novel!
Interview with Science Fiction Author Phoebe Wray
SF author Phoebe Wray talks about her debut novel, JEMMA7729.
Book Review: JEMMA7729, by Phoebe Wray
Wray's debut SF novel is thought provoking and action filled!
Interview with Artist/Illustrator K.C. Snider
Illustrator K.C. Snider talks about inspiration and her collaboration with authors.
A Delightful Series Featuring Two Raccoons
Two books by children's book author Shari Lyle-Soffe.
What is Cinco de Mayo? A Closer Look at this Mexican Holiday
Interview with author and news director Don Miles
Book Review: Roadworks, by Gerard Readett
International thriller set in 2022 Brussels, Belgium.
Interview with Children's Book Author and Editor Margot Finke
Picture books aren't as easy to write as they seem. Learn why from children's book author Margot Finke.
Book Review: Three Novellas, by Sandra Shwayder Sanchez
Literary writing at its best.
A Dream Come True for this First Time Author
Author Jennifer Gladen talks about her upcoming children's picture books.
Interview with Susan Berger, Children's Book Author
Susan Berger is the author of Jamie's Dream, a children's picture book on which she collaborated with her son. I was happy to have a recent opportunity to talk with her about her new book, about writing, and where you can buy a dream.
Book Review: Vegetation, by Mark LaFlamme
A bizarre, spooky, and downright hilarious read.
Book Review: The Stoker File, by Tony Noto
A dark, compelling read!
Reviews of GIFTS FROM GOD and KITTY KERPLUNKING, by Cynthia Reeg
Two great picture books young children will love.
Press Release: This Valentine's Day, Give the Gift of Friendship
Grandfather-granddaughter writing team collaborate on a book about friendship for this Valentine's Day.
New Book on Writing Book Reviews Coming This Summer
Are you passionate about books? Do you dream of becoming a book reviewer? Are you curious about the influence reviews have on readers, booksellers, and librarians? The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing will teach you everything you´ll ever need to know about reviewing, from how to write them to understanding their influence over the wider spectrum of the publishing world.
Interview with Christian Children's Book Author Cynthia Reeg
Christian children's book author Cynthia Reeg talks about inspiration, her books, working habits, and the business of publishing.
Book Review: Separate Worlds, by nancy Minnis Damato
Separate Worlds By Nancy Minnis Damato Wings e-Press, Inc. Copyright 2007 General Fiction/Historical Series (Book III) Available on Amazon The story of the Taylor family saga continues in this the third and final installment, Separate Worlds. Under the skillful pen of talented author Nanc...
Interview with Author/Violinist Corinne Demas
Corinne Demas has written many books in a variety of genres. A violinist herself, music has influenced her work. She is a Professor of English at Holyoke College and Fiction Editor of The Massachussets Review. Welcome to American Chronicle, Corinne. Let's start by talking a little about your vi...
Interview with Author James R. Clifford
Double Daggers is a fascinating story about a cursed coin and the four men who become affected by it across the ages. To read my review of this novel, visit The Slippery Book Review Blog. The author was kind enough to take time of out of his busy schedule to take part in this interview.Why don’t you...
Book Review: Writing for Life, by John D. Bessler
http://www.bottlecapbooks.com Hundreds of books on writing are available on the market these days. I try to get my hands on any new writing book that comes out, even though most of them end up being repetitive in one way or the other. I was pleasantly surprised by Bessler's book because, while it...
Book Review: A Complete Guide to Promoting and Selling Your Self-Published Ebook
A Complete Guide to Promoting and Selling Your Self-Published Ebook by Dorothy Thompson http://www.pumpupyourbookpromotion.com With the rise of the internet, electronic book publishing has become extremely popular. It's relatively easy and inexpensive to create an ebook and sell it from a we...
Local Author Aids 2007 San Diego Fire Survivors
Laurel, MD –— FIRE! You see it on the news, on the Internet, in the papers, but if it doesn't strike close to home it's easy to ignore. With one e-mail sent by publisher Karen Syed to 21 authors, "The Heat of the Moment" was developed. Each of the authors, the youngest being sixteen years old, invol...
The Magic Violin Virtual Book Tour
Christmas time is a wonderful time for soulful violin music and children's picture books. Join me this month as I tour the blogosphere to promote my first children's picture book, THE MAGIC VIOLIN. The tour begins on December 1st and will end on Christmas Day, when I'll be giving away a $20 Amazon ...
Book Review: DEAD RIGHT, by Brenda Novak
In the small town of Stillwater, the citizens are still haunted by the disappearance of their highly respected reverend twenty years ago. Despite what other people think, beautiful journalist Madeline Barker, the reverend's daughter, is sure the crime was not committed by her beloved stepbrother. ...
Book Review: Who Killed Marcia Maynard? by Alma H. Bond
Who Killed Marcia Maynard? is a short, easily readable little mystery with a twist: written by a psychoanalyst, it is filled with clinical observations about the criminal mind. A famous child psychologist called Marcia Maynard has been gruesomely killed in her Manhattan home, and psychoanalyst Ma...
Interview with Erica Miner, author of Travels with my Lovers
A former violinist, Erica Miner is now an author, poet and screenwriter. The violin has always been an inspiration and important part of her life and her works are proof of that. In this interview Erica talks about how she first became and author, violin music, and her novels. Tell us...
Interview with Author Anne K. Edwards
Anne K. Edwards is an author with many hats. She writes in various genres - mystery, fantasy, children's, speculative, and nonfiction. In addition, she is editor of The Voice in the Dark Ezine. In this interview, Anne talks about her ezine and her books. When did Voice in the Dark Ezine get start...
Interview with Andrea Sisco, co-Founder of Armchair Interviews
1. Please tell us about your book review site, Armchair Interviews. How and when did it get started? My business partner and best friend, Connie Anderson and I reviewed books and interviewed authors on television. We had both retired, but mourned the loss of the richness that format brought to o...
Book Review: The Christmas Angel, , by Mary Jean Kelso
The Christmas Angel By Mary Jean KelsoIllustrated by K.C. SniderGuardian Angel Publishingwww.guardianangelpublishing.com ISBN: 1933090588Copyright 2007Softcover, 32 pages, $11.95Children’s Picture Book The Christmas Angel is a sweet, heart-warming Christmas story about a little girl who ends up f...
Interview with Young Adult Novelist Max Anderson
Author Max Anderson specializes in writing adventure/mystery novels for reluctant boy readers. In this interview, Max talks about his work, what goes on inside the mind of young boys who hate reading, and what parents can do to change this.I understand you were a very r...
Violin, My Muse
Violin… The word brings such vivid images to my mind. A slender and graceful soloist performing on stage, her eyes closed with delirious ecstasy. The mysterious, dark, gaunt figure of Paganini, his long thin fingers racing up and down the fingerboard with demonic, preternatural speed. Tartini recl...
Interview with Children's Book Illustrator Amy Moreno
I recently had the chance to chat with Amy Moreno, whose illustrations for The Doll Violinist make her a finalist (together with the story) at the Children’s Picture Book Competition. Amy talks about the artistic temperament, the competitive world of children's book publishing, and offers advice to ...
Book Review: Birthday Snow, by Kim Messinger & Michael LaLumiere
Birthday Snow by Kim Messinger & Michael LaLumiere Illustrated by Angela Ursillo Stagger Lee Books ISBN: 978-0979100611 Hardcover, 32 pages Picture Book Freckled-faced Daniel has a dilemma. It’s his birthday today but there’s no snow. Up until now, it has ALWAYS snowed on his birthday. ...
Interview with Terry Doherty, Creator of The Reading Tub, Inc.
Q:How and when did The Reading Tub get started? What’s its mission? A:I have always loved to read and, when our daughter joined us in November 2001, I found sharing books with her to be great fun! One day I was talking with my sister-in-law about children's books (positives & negatives) and she ...
Interview with Dorothy Thompson, Author, Publicist and Relationship Expert
Q:As I can see, you have many hats. Why don't you start by putting on your publicist hat and telling our readers what a publicist can do for an author that the author cannot do himself? A:Hi, Mayra, and thanks for asking me to be here! First let me begin by saying that I’m an advocate for learni...
Book Review: There's a Spider in my Sink! by Bill Kirk
There’s a Spider in my Sink! By Bill Kirk Illustrated by Suzy Brown www.Ebooks4Tots.com Copyright 2005 Ebook Ages 2-6 "There’s a spider in my sink! Did he drop in from the brink? Does he want a little drink? There’s a spider in my sink!" Thus begins this very cute picture ebook youn...
An Attic Full of Cobwebs, Time Travel, and Two Young Protagonists That Won't Quit
The Missing Locket Book I, Cynthia’s Attic series By Mary Cunningham Quake (Echelon Press imprint) ISBN: 1-59080-441-4 Copyright 2005 Trade Paperback, 152 pages, $9.99 Mystery/Paranormal, Middle Reader The Missing Locket is a paranormal mystery featuring two lovable young sleuths that gi...
Ghosts, Witches and a Touch of Fantasy
The Ghost Mirror By Jamieson Wolf eTreasures Publishing www.etreasurespublishing.com ISBN:978-0974053-776 Copyright 2007 Paperback, $7.99, 120 pages YA/Dark Fantasy Thirteen-year old Mave is no ordinary girl. For one thing, she happens to be a black-eyed, redheaded powerful witch, ...
Attention Writers: New Book on Self Editing
The Frugal Editor By Carolyn Howard-Johnson Red Engine Press Copyright 2007 ISBN: 978-0-9785158-7-4 Paperback, 208 pages, $18.95 The publishing world is so incredibly competitive nowadays, both aspiring and experienced authors who wish to succeed need to make sure that their submissions—be ...
New Thriller Author on the Scene
Death Game By Cheryl Swanson Zumaya Publications www.zumayapublications.com ISBN: 1-554110-326-6 Copyright 2006 Trade Paperback, 300 pages, $14.99 Thriller CG expert Cooper O’Brian’s life turns upside down when her younger brother, a troubled teenager, is accused of murdering another boy i...
Meet Cheryl Swanson, One of the Hottest New Thriller Authors on the Scene
Q:How long have you been writing? A:I started writing stories when I was around seven. When I was thirteen, Arizona Highways Magazine sent me a check for $50 for a short story about riding a mule down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Getting that check hooked me, but I must say it was the las...
Book Review: Why is Crater Lake So Blue? by Michael LaLumiere
When Sam Hunter lands a summer job in 1975 as a seasonal maintenance worker at Crater Lake National Park in order to make some money for next year’s college tuition, little did he imagine the unusual events which would take place there, events that ultimately would defy his moral beliefs and put to ...
Interview with Lea Schizas, author, reviewer, and organizer of The Muse Online Writer’s Conference
Q:What’s an online conference? A:The Muse Online Writers Conference is an opportunity for writers to meet, mingle, and network with some of the professionals in the publishing industry. It’s an area where you don’t have to worry what you’re going to wear, travel and hotel expenses, or who will m...
Book Review: Grassroots Marketing for Authors and Publishers
Grassroots Marketing for Authors and Publishers By Shel Horowitz AWM Books ISBN: 0-9614666-3-3 Copyright 2007 Paperback, $24.95 Book Promotion If you’re serious about book promotion, this work by marketing guru Shel Horowitz is one you’ll want to add to your permanent reference shelf. T...
How To Get Celebrity Testimonials
Getting celebrity testimonials or endorsements is an effective way to boost sales, add publicity and credibility to your book, and attract attention from booksellers and libraries. As a small press author, I don’t think I would have any trouble getting reviews from Booklist, Publisher’s Weekly or Li...
Christian Fables for Young Readers
Journeys of Hope: A Star Shall Lead Them Written & illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier Guardian Angel Publishing www.guardianangelpublishing.com ISBN: 1-933090-28-6 Copyright 2005 Ebook, 26 pages, $6.00 Children’s Picture Book/Christian Journeys of Hope is a delightful picture ebook that in...
My Nine-Year Old Daughter, the Author
That’s right. Talk about living with the competition! Guardian Angel Publishing (www.guardianangelpublishing.com), a company specializing in children’s picture ebooks and paperbacks, has started an imprint of books written and illustrated by children under twelve years of age. These books will ...
So… You Want To Start A Book Club
Starting your own book club is a great way to share your love of books with other book lovers. Chances are many book lovers would love to start a club but simply don’t know how, or for some reason think it is difficult. Starting your own book club can be easy, inexpensive, fun, and rewarding. The ma...
Audio Interviews and the Shy Writer
Audio interviews are in rising popularity as a tool of book promotion among authors. After all, all you need are a phone, a witty personality, and a talent for public speaking. The first one is easy—everybody has a phone these days. The second is a gift you may be born with if you’re lucky. The thir...

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