The New Book Review

This blog, #TheNewBookReview, is "new" because it eschews #bookbigotry. It lets readers, reviewers, authors, and publishers expand the exposure of their favorite reviews, FREE. Info for submissions is in the "Send Me Your Fav Book Review" circle icon in the right column below. Find resources to help your career using the mini search engine below. #TheNewBookReview is a multi-award-winning blog including a MastersInEnglish.org recommendation.

Friday, December 4, 2015

Welcome to the FIRST of a New Series of Author Interviews!


Hi! I am  Carolyn Howard Johnson, your trusty New Book Review blogger and author of  the multi award-winning HowTo Do It Frugally Series of books for writers. This blog has heretofore been exclusive for reviews but I thought I’d do a special series of interviews after I chatted with Jeanie Loiacono, President of Loiacono Literary Agency – Where ‘can’t’ is not in our vocabulary!  I thought sharing the interviews would help the many subscribers and visitors to this New Book Review blog, including authors, reviewers, and, of course, readers who just might find a new favorite author among the featured books and authors. This is one of the first in the series. 

So, today welcome Drake Vaughn. 

Drake Vaughn
Drake Vaughn’s “crinkled fiction” is a blend of horror, dark fantasy, and speculative fiction with a heavy psychological bent. His tales appear deceptively simple, but transform into a wild spree of suspense, madness, and trauma. He lives in Santa Monica, California with his wife and a black cat named Shadow (who he is certain has come back from the dead on a number of occasions). His first novel was The Zombie Generation.
When the Devil Climbs

After a decade lost to addiction and criminality, Russ Grote is given the opportunity by his jilted ex-wife to reconnect with his son. On the day before he is scheduled to leave for this reunion, he and his coworkers become trapped up on a billboard after a horde of pigs infected with a mysterious virus attack them. At first, missing his bus appears to be Russ’ major problem, but as the hours whittle away and no rescue arrives, a far worse fate may be in store. Matters only become more complicated when the people who eventually come to save them have other, far more nefarious plans, in store.

1. What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? Horror, and all the creepy dark stuff.

2. What made you want to be a writer? Every writer starts as a passionate reader. I wanted to tell my own stories in my own way and share in the same way other authors shared with me.

3. Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? Stephen King. I fell in love with his stuff as a kid, and still have yet to outgrow it.

4. What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I outline and plan a lot. I typically begin with a nugget of a story and then concentrate on fleshing out the characters. When it comes to writing, I tend to drift from my outline, but as long as the characters remain true, I can put them into any scenario and it will work out. Sometimes the best plan is to write myself into an inescapable corner, then keep pushing. Looking back at my outlines, it’s crazy how the final story is so different, but the characters and their growth typically remain consistent.

5. Do you write every day? How much? How long? I view writing in the same way as exercise. Consistency is key, but so is changing up the routine. In the same way that doing the same exercise over and over leads to injury, I get uncreative the more compulsive I get while working on something. I’ve found the best ideas have come when I’m least expecting them, when my mind is wandering. The key is to be always ready, whenever that spark ignites, along with pushing through when there isn’t one.

6. Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Outside of having a way to transcribe your words, reading is the only important thing for a writer. I can’t imagine anyone who doesn’t read wanting to be a writer.

7. What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Keep practicing. It’s a slow process, but the more one writes, the easier it becomes. The only way to become better is to practice, practice, practice.

8. Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? The best marketing is to have more books. Similar to most, when I discover a new author, all I want to do is read everything they’ve ever written. I binge read authors, so if all they have is one book, I read it and am done with them. A bigger catalogue is far better than any advertising.

9. Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? My favorite is the World Horror Convention, but that’s focused on my particular genre. The attendees are the best part, since it’s a gathering of like-minded people who share a passion for the genre. Any tips I’ve learned are far less than the connections to these authors who share a passion for writing.

10. Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? The best place to reach me is on social media or my website: drakevaughn.com www.twitter.com/drakevaughn Represented by Loiacono Literary Agency, Melissa Carrigee Melissa.C@llallc.net http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/drake-vaughn/ 


 IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE INTERVIEWS--TO FIND GREAT READING OR TO NETWORK WITH AUTHORS--PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG. YOU ARE A WELCOME ADDITION TO THIS FAMILY WHO LOVES BOOKS! YOU'LL FIND A WINDOW TO DO THIS AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG PAGE.

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENTS
Melissa.C@llallc.net http://www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com/authors/drake-vaughn/ Agent,  Marketing and Publicity – Melissa Carrigee
Reading and writing is a way of life for Melissa Carrigee.  As a literary agent and award winning graphic artist, she combines her two passions of business and writing.  She has published works in newspapers and magazines as well as a published novel. Featured Columnist for The Family Forum, Parents and Kids Magazine – Mississippi Gulf Coast.
I want a horror book to read all night long while I check behind the doors for the boogey man.  I’m looking for a thriller that keeps me reading and guessing (and just when I think I’ve figured it out, I’m wrong).  I’m looking for children’s books that engage the parent and the child.  I’m looking for young adult novels – but NOT Twilight and not wizards.  That’s been done.  I’m looking for any story with a great plot.  Something I can sit and read in a few days with characters that make me think about them long after I’ve finished the book.
Genres: horror, science fiction, historical fiction, commercial fiction, mysteries, thrillers, dramas, historical romance, children’s (picture and mid-grade)—any book that has a great story with unforgettable characters.

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency - A facilitator of dreams, Jeanie Loiacono represents over eighty authors. Her forte is mystery, romance, thrillers, historical/military/southern fiction, and all quality fiction/nonfiction. Her passion is to see her authors succeed.
“There is nothing more rewarding than to hold one of my author’s books and know I helped bring it to fruition. I am so blessed and privileged to be able to work with some of the most talented writers in the world.” Jeanie.L@llallc.net  www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Interviews: Veteran English Teacher Sets Grand Example for Creativity




Hi! I am Carolyn Howard Johnson, your trusty New Book Review blogger and author of the multi award-winning HowTo Do It Frugally Series of books for writers. This blog has heretofore been exclusive for reviews but I thought I’d do a special series of interviews after I chatted with Jeanie Loiacono, President of Loiacono Literary Agency – Where ‘can’t’ is not in our vocabulary!  I thought sharing the interviews would help the many subscribers and visitors to this New Book Review blog, including authors, reviewers, and, of course, readers who just might find a new favorite author among the featured books and authors.

So, today welcome Caroline Giammanco.

Caroline Giammanco grew up on a farm in the Ozarks of Missouri. After graduating from high school, she moved to Tucson, Arizona where she attended the University of Arizona. Her Bachelor’s degree is in Political Science with an English minor. Caroline has taught public school for over twenty years in New Mexico, Arizona, and Missouri. She is currently the English department chair of a southern Missouri high school. Caroline is the mother of two sons, Rick and Kevin, both military veterans.  

1. What is your genre? Is it fiction or nonfiction? I write non-fiction true crime with an emphasis on criminal justice reform.

2. What made you want to be a writer? I'm an English teacher and had considered writing for years. I finally found a topic I want to share with the world.

3. Of all the authors out there, who inspired you most? I have always admired authors who aren't afraid to tackle a tough subject; be it Harper Lee with To Kill a Mockingbird or Richard Peck writing The River Between Us. I like authors who make you think. 

4. What is your writing style? Do you outline? Linearly? By scene? Why? I seldom outline. When an idea strikes me, I write. Then I build around that central idea.

5. Do you write every day? How much? How long? I don't write every day, but some days I spend hours writing. It depends if there is something I have to get down on paper and what is happening in real life.

6. Do you think reading is as important to writing for an author? Why? Reading teaches children the power of writing. I am a huge advocate of early childhood reading, and in reading throughout your whole life.

7. What are some of the things you would like to share with budding authors? Write about what you believe in, and believe in your writing. If you have a passion for a topic, you will touch the hearts and minds of readers.  

8. Do you have any marketing and promotional advice, referrals, tips you would like to share? Don't just write to be published, write to be published and sell millions! Your success hinges on your own investment of time and effort into the promotion of your work. Don't be content stopping at step one. Network, use social media, and self-promote.

9. Do you think conferences are beneficial? If so, what have you learned? Which ones do you frequent? I'm a first-time author who just attended my very first writer’s conference, held by the Ozarks Writers League. Making those connections, learning from others, and sharing my own experiences were invaluable.

10. Where can we find you, your books and when is your next event? Bank Notes: The True Story of the Boonie Hat Bandit is available online @ Amazon, BooksAMillion, Barnes & Noble and increasingly in stores. Ask for it at your local book retailer. www.booniehatbandit.com The Newsy Notes page is my blog. Facebook fan page www.facebook.com/Caroline-Giammanco-Author-Fans-708344612622445/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009880805237

 On December 6th I will be at the Barnes and Noble in Fairview Heights, Illinois.
Larry Connors USA
By Brady Hempen on November 23, 2015 in Podcasts
Audio Player
Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.
Caroline Giammanco, wife of Keith Giammanco, better known as the Boonie Hat Bandit, joined Larry to talk about her new book Bank Notes: The True Story of the Boonie Hat Bandit

MORE ABOUT THE SPONSORING AGENT

Jeanie Loiacono, President, Loiacono Literary Agency
A facilitator of dreams, Jeanie Loiacono represents over eighty authors. Her forte is mystery, romance, thrillers, historical/military/southern fiction, and all quality fiction/nonfiction. Her passion is to see her authors succeed.

“There is nothing more rewarding than to hold one of my author’s books and know I helped bring it to fruition. I am so blessed and privileged to be able to work with some of the most talented writers in the world.” Jeanie.L@llallc.net  www.loiaconoliteraryagency.com



IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE INTERVIEWS--TO FIND GREAT READING OR TO NETWORK WITH AUTHORS--PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG. YOU ARE A WELCOME ADDITION TO THIS FAMILY WHO LOVES BOOKS! YOU'LL FIND A WINDOW TO DO THIS AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG PAGE.

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 The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Tracey Quintin Reviews Gripping Novel

Title:  Loving Josie: A Torey Hope Novel
Author: A.D. Ellis
Genre:  Fiction / Romance / Ghosts / Contemporary
ISBN #:   B00RELMOM0
Reviewer's Rating: 5 star


Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads

***I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review***

This emotion packed story is the first I've read by A.D. Ellis and is absolutely phenomenal! I can assure you I will be reading every story A.D. has written and will write because THIS story has put her on my very limited author pedestal list.

This story gripped my heart from the start, I couldn't put it down I was so emotionally invested. I had a book hangover and STILL get all knotted up thinking about these beautifully defined characters that I got to know not only because of what transpires but because I personally connected with them, their thoughts and talks.

I've highlighted many profound sections of the story that resonated with me. The range of feelings A.D. evoked in me was huge...way too many to list. I can assure you that you'll experience a roller coaster ride with many unexpected twists and turns. I've revisited the story and my highlights and EACH time my stomach does flips!

I do not give spoilers away in any review I write. Trust me in my HIGH recommendation that you read this story. You will read an incredible piece of work carefully written with heart and soul by a very talented author.

I WILL say that life IS all about changes and sometimes we don't know how life altering they can be!

WOW, I honestly can't rave highly enough about this. My God what a touching story. A.D. thank you for coming into my life with this piece of art. Bravo on delivering one heck of a fantastic read!

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A.D. Ellis connections:

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 The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Monday, November 30, 2015

Tracey Quintin Gives Historical Fiction a Try and Loves It

Title:  What Happened to Alex Manning?
(The Manning Family Series Book 1)
Author: Kim Scott
Genre:  History, Americas, 20th Century, Literature & Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical
ISBN: B00DXKJK64
Reviewer's Rating: 5 star

Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads


WOW! Kim Scott sure knows how to deliver a story of historic fiction!

This story starts in the 1700's and takes you through the early 1900's of The Manning Family. An incredible journey through the centuries with a strong family legacy to be upheld.

The Manning family endures love, loss, tragedy, financial woes, and secrets.

I have a knot in my stomach right now writing this and thinking of all the things the generations of this family endured. Details of the time periods and world events are intertwined in the story giving you vivid details.

I'm typically not a reader of historic fiction books but I've heard and seen a lot about this book and boy am I glad I read it! It took me a couple of chapters to get captivated because I don't typically read this genre BUT man it sure became quite the page turner! I had to know what was going to happen next. Yes, I even went through strong emotions at events as they transpired.

I highly recommend this book to all. Kuddo's to Kim for a brilliantly written story. I will definitely be reading more of Kim's work!!

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kim Scott connections:

ABOUT THE REVIEWER

Tracey Quintin connections:


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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Sunday, November 29, 2015

Reviewer Covets Novel's Protagonist!

Title:  Wolfe's Heart: Touch of the Irish:
Part 2 (Touch of the Irish: A Collection of Short Erotic Fantasies Book 1)
Author: Savannah Morgan
Genre:  Literature & Fiction / Paranormal / Romantic Erotica
ISBN #:   B013GR1GOM
Reviewer's Rating: 5 star



Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads


This is the first book of Savannah Morgan's that I've read and let me tell ya it's a GREAT story.
I'm not usually one to read books of fairies, dragons, wolves, etc. but I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline, characters, and dialogue!

There was the perfect combination of description and conversation which I love.

There were moments I cracked up at some of the comments made by the characters and moments I was nervous about what might happen to the main characters, Aidan and Samantha.

I felt for Aidan and the responsibilities he has on him. Not only that but he has a tender and protective side that oh so shines through! Totally flipping hot! I only wish I was Samamtha!
Samantha, the beautiful gal, hasn't a clue what she's in for. She steps up and really shows her strength and support when it's most needed.

That's all I can share without giving.any of the storyline away.

Let me say, if Aidan was real he is MINE! I'll keep him in my heart as mine anyway.

Very well done Savannah! Highly recommend and will be reading more of Savannah's work for sure!
Don't miss out on this great story!

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Savannah Morgan connections:


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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Great Read Comes with Reviewer's Warning

Title:  Colour My Ugly (Colour Series) (Volume 2)
Author: A. Giannoccaro
Genre:  Literature & Fiction, Erotica, Romantic Suspense, Mystery & Suspense
ISBN #:   B0148UU1ZQ
Reviewer's Rating: 5 star



Reviewed by Tracey Quintin originally for Goodreads


This story was my first dark romance read and I have to warn you if you've never read a dark romance, this is INTENSE, DARK and NOT for folks who don't want to read a story that contains rape, murder or abuse.

It took me a few days once I finished reading to get beyond the WOW, MAN THAT WAS INTENSE to be able to write my review. As I said, this was my first read of this genre.

It also took me some time to read because of the intensity. I really LOVED the storyline, most of the characters, with the exception of the character that calls Lauri "little one." I don't even want to give his name because he was pure "evil."

All the characters in this story are damaged, tortured souls, either from their upbringing or from what life has dealt them.

I don't give the story away in my reviews but let me say this:
Lauri, what a beautiful woman. She was sheltered from her roots for many years then after being damaged in every possible way for many years becomes a strong, loving, capable and confident woman.

Rowan, what a beautiful man. He grew up thinking he was a "bad" man, knowing full well his roots and what he was meant to do in life. Little did he know that he had the capacity to love someone. For that matter neither did Lauri.

Callum, a man who knows his roots, is a "brother by heart" to Rowan and clearly is in over his head in "bad" situations yet his friends can't help him.

Robin and Amya, each with their own and combined sadness and past.

Robin is a brilliant tattoo artist who is able to skillfully draw and color over the outside "ugly" of Lauri and Rowan (they think, I think they are beautiful) and as they are inked, make them feel the pain as the needle pierces their skin. The intricate details of his work are so vividly in my mind.
Lauri and Rowan melted a piece of my heart. They belong together, they understand each other, they are destined for each other. They fit together.

Ashleigh Giannoccaro paints a careful visual of each character mentioned above as well as a gripping, page turning story that will stay in your mind. I highlighted so many parts that touched me.

At the start of each chapter, Ms. Giannoccaro has a quote so befitting the chapter. These quotes are outstanding.

"I don't want anyone to suffer the darkness of another." sticks in my mind when thinking of this story.

I very highly recommend this read to all who can handle it. Well done Ms. Giannoccaro!

***Lastly, I MUST make mention that the version of this book that I downloaded had an INCREDIBLE amount of editing errors. I personally focus on the storyline in reading and reviewing. I'm hopeful that a re-edited version will be uploaded because I don't want folks to focus on these errors and miss out on a remarkable read!***

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ashleigh Giannocarro connections:


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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Sunday, November 22, 2015

Young Adult Fiction We Could All Learn From

Title:  When Fall Breaks 
Seasons of Jefferson #1
Author: Julie Solano (Author), Tracy Justice (Author)
Genre:  Teens, Literature & Fiction, Social & Family Issues, Physical & Emotional Abuse, Teen & Young Adult, Romance
ISBN #:   B00T8QISNI
Reviewer's Rating: 5 star


Reviewed by Reading Is Our Passion (Tracey Quintin) originally for Amazon

**I received this book in exchange for an honest review**

This book is OUTSTANDING and I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Although it's genre is Teen and Young Adult, all could benefit from reading this.

These authors are on the tip of being added to my very limited list of pedestal authors!

Brilliantly written addressing real issues teens of today face.

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Julie Solano and Tracy Justice write under the name JT Authors, connect with them:
Goodreads: 
Amazon: 

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.