Teatime and Books: September 2024

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Blog Tour ~ Wish Upon A Streaming Star - Season 1: Volume 2 by Krissi Dallas

Wish Upon A Streaming Star
Krissi Dallas
(Season 1 Volume 1)
Publication date: July 7th 2024
Genres: Comedy, Contemporary, Romance, Young Adult

He’s an internet star.
She can’t stand him.
Together they just went viral.

Daisy McEntire might seem like an uptight control freak, but it’s only because she’s trying to graduate high school, support her cancer-fighting mother, and save her family’s riverside campground. The last thing she needs is her obnoxious neighbor, internet star Caz Cortéz, keeping everyone up with his late night video stunts and ridiculous pranks. Forget that they grew up as best friends—that was before he relentlessly obsessed over his hair and stats.

But when Daisy accidentally botches one of Caz’s pranks on livestream, the video goes viral, endangering his sponsorships and throwing her into an unwelcome spotlight. As if the overnight attention isn’t enough, half a million dollars in an unbreakable lockbox mysteriously appears. The key to unlock it? Reenact a series of cliché Hollywood movie scenes together within 48 hours.

The catch? It all has to be done live on the Internet—no rehearsals.

Daisy needs the money. Caz needs the stats. Surely they can work together long enough to complete the challenge, split their earnings, and then get back to ignoring each other from across the property line.

The one challenge they can’t control, though, is the one that could jeopardize it all—falling in love.

Goodreads / Amazon

The Complete Playlist for Season 1 of Wish Upon A Streaming Star

Theme Songs

“Good Things Fall Apart”

ILLENIUM & Jon Bellion

“Hot N Cold”

Katy Perry

“you!”

LANY

“Beautiful”

Duncan Laurence

Scene Challenge #1

“Dynamite”

BTS

Scene Challenge #2

“Fishin’ in the Dark”

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

Scene Challenge #3

“Cruise (Remix) [feat. Nelly]

Florida Georgia Line

Scene Challenge #4

“(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”

Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

“Despacito” (feat. Justin Bieber)

Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee

“Bidi Bidi Bom Bom”

Selena

Scene Challenge #5

“More Than Friends”

Mokita

Scene Challenge #6

“What Makes You Beautiful”

One Direction

“A Broken Wing”

Martina McBride

Scene Challenge #7

“Message in a Bottle”

Taylor Swift

“Here (In Your Arms)”

Hellogoodbye

“A Whole New World”

Aladdin Movie Soundtrack

Scene Challenge #8

“Complete Mess”

5 seconds of Summer

Scene Challenge #9

“My Heart Will Go On” (Love Theme from Titanic)

Celine Dion

Scene Challenge #10

“Secrets”

OneRepublic

“Out of My Hands”

Jeremy Camp

“How You Get The Girl”

Taylor Swift

Author Bio:

Krissi Dallas loves pop music, mismatched socks, and Tex-Mex food. She is wife to Dr. Sam Dallas, mom to two strong-willed little boys and a mini goldendoodle, and former junior high teacher of sixteen years. When she’s not busy serving in her church and community, Krissi gives herself over to daydreams and writing. She has five books in the Phantom Island series with the sixth and final installment on the way. Her Kindle Vella novel, Icarus Flight School, spent eleven weeks as the #1 Top Faved story in Teen and Young Adult and just released in paperback and hardcover. Her ongoing serial romantic comedy, Wish Upon A Streaming Star, is currently a Top Faved story on Kindle Vella where new episodes release every weekend. She’s a proud member of the writing community at Art House Dallas and loves nothing more than connecting with readers and writers of all ages.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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Book Tour ~ Songs for the Deaf - A Novel by Kenneth A. Silver

Speculative Fiction

Songs for the Deaf is a wonderful story with the unforgettable presence of Miles Curtin, the protagonist. Following his bombshell discovery, the tug-of-war within his soul creates the kind of depth and literary richness that is one of the hallmarks I look for in great writing. Mariel Hemingway, Oscar-nominated actress, author, and granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway

She sits with him while he bathes, fusses over him, towels him down, and helps him into his deluxe hotel bathrobe. It isn’t until then that she realizes what a terrible funk he is in. She inches closer, until her lips are close enough to his face for her to feel the static. “Look, darling, we’re way out there on a limb together. If you can’t talk to me now, when will you be ready to talk to me?”

“Why don’t we table it? We’ve got the rest of our lives to discuss it,” he replies.

“Was that a proposal?!” She practically jumps out of her skin.

“I’m not really sure, but it sure as hell sounded like one. Why don’t you ask me again in the morning?”

She is still a little giddy, but to bed it is.

___

As Scarlett O’Hara famously said in Gone with the Wind, “Tomorrow is another day.” Only the sword cuts both ways.

He’s already spoken to her, and she’s reacted the way he expected her to. There they are in their bedroom suite, trading barbs over breakfast.

“Last night you were ready to marry me and this morning you’re ready to fire me? Which one is it?” She is having trouble keeping her voice down.

His voice, however, still sounds sleepy, but it goes a good deal deeper than that. “I’m only trying to protect you.”

“Fuck you, Sir Galahad! Don’t you think I already know that?”

“I had no right bringing you into this.” He pushes his plate aside, signaling he is ready to have it out.

“Did you think I was twiddling my thumbs during my Washington days? I was public enemy number one to a few of the worst polluters in America. They weren’t exactly playing footsie either.”

“It’s different.” He is quick to shrug it off. “They were polluting streams for a living. Murdering people wasn’t part of their job description.”

“They sure had me fooled.” She continues to make a case for herself, but not without plenty of pushback from him.

“I wouldn’t even put them in the same ring with Titan. Different weight class altogether.”

“That’s how much you know,” she pauses. “They were right up there on the NGA list.” As they transition from a row to a squabble, they continue to sip their coffee.

“What the hell is the NGA list?”

“Nastiest Guys in America.” The hint of a smile has crept into her face.

“You’re just making it up as you go along. Are you braindead or something? You might already have a target on your back.”

“I tell you what,” she says, “how about if I become your research assistant?”

He has his fingers clasped together with both elbows on the table. “I’m waiting.”

Puppy love between adults can be a goofy but beautiful thing, even when they’re arguing, and they both begin to recognize it for what it has become.

“Well, I’m waiting,” he repeats.

“First of all, a research assistant has to know everything.”

“You never know when to let go, do you?” If there’s such a thing as a forced frown, it is staring her right in the face. “Only don’t come crying to me if our paths happen to cross in heaven.”

“No problem there. I’ll just make believe I don’t even know you.”

“I hope you know what you’ve done.” Before she has a chance to answer, he is leaning over her back with his arms wrapped around her. “You’ve actually managed to turn my mood around.” He whispers in her ear. “I just hope you know what you’re doing.” He finally releases her. “This isn’t a game, you know.”

“Of course it is. The game of life.” She manhandles him with a playful but aggressive kiss.

They go back to the bedroom and get undressed. The Library of Congress will have to wait.

About the Author

Ken Silver discontinued his education for two years to pursue a career in fashion design. He then worked his way through law school designing clothing for a French fashion house and was ultimately admitted to the New York Bar, but continued to work as a fashion designer, fabric designer, and colorist.

He went on to design and build a chain of clothing stores in Canada that featured his own exclusive designs. Following his return to the States, Mr. Silver spearheaded the design and concept planning as an active partner in large-scale mixed use real estate projects in and around NYC. While doing so, he exhibited his photography in venues throughout the US, including solo shows in the gallery districts of Manhattan, East Hampton, Beverly Hills, and Carmel.

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Release Blitz ~ The Salvation of Henry Maxwell by Lee Lindauer

Gothic Thriller

Date Published: September 18, 2024

Publisher: Wild Rose Press Inc.

Henry Maxwell, once a celebrated figure in Gothic horror cinema, finds himself trapped in a life of grief, resulting in severe depression and hallucinations after the tragic death of his wife, Lillian. Maxwell’s battle with reality sets the stage for his emotional and psychological exploration. The novel captures the essence of a man haunted by his past, struggling to find solace.

Jessica Barrow, the young attorney appointed as Maxwell’s conservator, and David Grovene, a film studies professor with a penchant for sixties B-movies, form the central supporting cast. Their involvement in Maxwell's life brings a fresh perspective to his plight, blending elements of clinical psychology and film history into the story.

The setting itself acts like a character, reflecting Maxwell’s internal turmoil and the Gothic essence of his past. A mysterious serial killer adds a layer of creepiness mirroring scenes from Maxwell’s films interweaving the past and present, making for a compelling and suspenseful read.

The Salvation of Henry Maxwell is a unique blend of Gothic horror, psychological thriller, and detective story. The Salvation of Henry Maxwell is imbued with a sense of tragic grandeur and serves as an underlying commentary on the ephemeral nature of fame and the enduring impact of grief.

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Release Blitz ~ The 7th Dimension - 21 Tattoos Series by Monica Broussard

Book 2 in the 21 Tattoos series

Visionary/Metaphysical Fiction; Speculative Fiction; Christian Fiction

Date Published: forthcoming September 18

Publisher: Acorn Publishing

What do a comatose old woman, a dying gang member, and a brutal assault on a teenage boy have in common? Derek Hollinger isn’t sure, but he knows they’re all connected to the mysterious tattoos that suddenly appeared across his body.

Determined to untangle the web spun by the vicious thug known as “Spider,” Derek embarks on a journey of redemption that leads from his lavish L.A. penthouse to the seedy world of underground fighting and human trafficking. But as he ventures deeper down the rabbit hole, the self-exiled plastic surgeon realizes that the answer lies within his heart and mind … and soul.

Faith is the key to reclaiming his life, but choosing God may be difficult for Derek, who has spent his entire career valuing material success over spiritual growth.

In this thrilling sequel to 21 Tattoos, Derek must face the hard truth about where his tattoos came from and an even harder truth about what it will take to be free of them once and for all.

About the Author

Writer, speaker, and certified life coach Monica Broussard is passionate about writing fiction that contains elements of fantasy and keeps the reader intrigued about the lead character’s motives. She also writes an occasional article for her hometown’s magazine, SeaCliff Living. She belongs to Toastmasters International and enjoys attending national writers' conferences.

Born in North Carolina on a Marine Corps base, Monica now lives in “Surf City,” Huntington Beach, California, with her husband of thirty-eight years. She has enjoyed various occupations over the years, but her favorite job is the one she’s doing now—writing.

Her debut novel, 21 Tattoos, was published by Acorn Publishing in 2023. The 7th Dimension is Book 2 in the 21 Tattoos Series.

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Instagram: @monicabroussardauthor

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Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Book Blitz ~ SMILE Chin Up! by Corine Lewis

Memoir, Self-Help, Inspirational

Date Published: September 17, 2024

Publisher: Higgins Publishing

Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey? SMILE, Chin Up! by Corine Lewis is more than a book; it's a lifeline for those navigating through the darkest storms. In gripping firsthand narratives, Corine bares her soul, revealing a decade-long battle with sexual assault and domestic violence.

Picture this: a young woman, shattered by violence, yet resilient in the face of despair. Corine's story is not just about pain; it's about finding humor in the darkest moments and wisdom in the depths of suffering.

Through her eyes, you'll witness the highs and lows, the tears and laughter that define her journey.

But there's more to this tale than tragedy. Corine shares her CL Way—a roadmap to reclaiming power and rebuilding shattered lives.

With every page, she imparts invaluable lessons on recognizing abuse, finding strength in vulnerability, and standing tall against adversity.

Amidst the turmoil, Corine's passion for cheerleading and dance shines bright, adding a glimmer of hope to the narrative. From Mrs. Oregon to coaching at the University of Oregon, her journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

Yet, SMILE, Chin Up! is not just about one woman's story; it's a call to action. Corine's advocacy reverberates through the pages, igniting a fire within readers to stand against injustice and support survivors.

In the end, SMILE, Chin Up! is more than a book—it's a beacon of hope in a world plagued by darkness.

Through Corine Lewis's candid storytelling and unwavering advocacy, you'll find the courage to reclaim your voice, rediscover your power, and stand tall against adversity. So, are you ready to SMILE, Chin Up!, and embark on a journey of resilience and empowerment? Get your copy today and take a stand against domestic violence!

About the Author

Corine Lewis is a prominent advocate against sexual abuse and violence toward women. Her memoir recounts over a decade of trauma from rape and domestic violence, highlighting her resilience and journey to empowerment. A distinguished cheerleader, Corine was a member of the Willamette High School state championship team and the University of Oregon cheerleading squad, and she coached the USA National Hip Hop Dance champions. She also starred in the reality series The Making of an Oregon Cheerleader. Corine has informally counseled victims for over ten years and plans to launch a podcast to inspire and empower others.

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Release Blitz ~ The Other Fork in the Road by Mary Lee Painter

Romantic Comedy

Date Published: September 17, 2024

After being publicly humiliated in the worst possible way, New York socialite and Magnolia Hotel heiress, Madison Clark, pours her woes out to his psychic. She is giving a "to-go" bag of calming tea that promises rest and relaxation, but instead Madison wakes up in an unfamiliar crappy apartment with a wallet full of maxed out credit cards and a bank account with a zero balance.

Convinced she's the victim of identity theft, Madison returns to the psychic shop, only to learn the universe - and the freaking cosmic tea- is responsible for the change. She is now living the (poor) life, and the only way to get her (rich) life back is by righting some wrongs, starting with a reconciliation with her estranged father, who inconveniently is about to get married in Montana.

Cue up the good times, because even though she's got nothing to wear and a pathetically small amount of bills in her wallet, she has to be at the wedding because there's no time to waste. But things get even more upside- down when she lands in Montana and is picked up from the airport by the annoyingly attractive Jax, who seems to loathe her at first sight. He's expecting the party girl he's seen all over social media, and is taken aback when Madison bounces out of the airport sporting neon overalls and fishing boots. In addition to the many roadblocks of her new life, Madison suddenly finds herself out running cows, competing in beer-chugging competitions while attempting parental bonding.

The more time she spends in Montana, and the more time she spends with Jax, the more she questions her "good life". Just when things are starting to become clear someone shows up unexpectedly, and all bets are off.

About the Author

Mary Lee Painter and her family reside in Omaha, Nebraska. She enjoys spending time with family, watching Minnesota Wild hockey, chasing kids, and writing. Mary Lee enjoys being involved in the community, and has a deep appreciation for chocolate along with road trips that involve discovering local treasures and fun basement bars.

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Release Blitz ~ Insensible Loss - A Novel by Linda L. Richards

Thriller

Date Published: September 17, 2024

After attempting to sever all ties to her life as a hired assassin, a woman struggles to understand who she has become. She knows she doesn’t want to kill again—but it proves to be a difficult habit to break, particularly in a world where people are after her and those she loves most.

Adrift and disconnected, she meets an old woman: Imogen O’Brien, a world-famous artist who has spent the last three decades living a hermit-like existence on a rustic desert estate in a national forest. Imogen invites her to stay and work for her, offering mentorship in return as the woman deepens her own interest in art.

What quickly becomes apparent is that elements of Imogen’s past are shrouded in danger, sorrow, and darkness. Rather than growing as an artist, the former hitwoman soon finds herself enmeshed in a dangerous mystery with strands that stretch decades into the past.

About the Author

Linda L. Richards is the award-winning author of over a dozen books. The founder and publisher of January Magazine and a contributing editor to the crime fiction blog The Rap Sheet, she is best known for her strong female protagonists in the thriller genre. Richards is from Vancouver, Canada and currently makes her home in Phoenix, Arizona. New for 2024: INSENSIBLE LOSS, the fourth book in the Endings series featuring a reluctant hit woman struggling towards the light. Linda’s 2021 novel, the first in this series, ENDINGS, is under option by a major studio for series production. Richards is an accomplished horsewoman and an avid tennis player, and is on the National Board of Sisters in Crime.

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Teaser ~ For the Love of Winter - A Collection of Holiday Romances

Holiday Romance (varying heat levels and sub-genres)

Publication Date: September 24, 2024

Publisher: First Coast Romance Writers

Warm your heart with nine enchanting tales of love. From historical winter celebrations to modern sizzling New Year's Eve encounters, this anthology spans sweet to spicy romance across different eras and realms. Whether you prefer gentle courtship or steamy embraces, this collection has something for every romance reader.

Mistletoe Magic, by Leah Miles: A holiday romance rekindles when Navy SEAL Michael Rodriguez runs into his old flame, Nora Geller, and invites her to his family gathering. Will they mend old wounds and find love again, or will misunderstandings leave their hearts out in the cold?

Happily Ever After, Take Two, by Sara Walker: Will Dino and Hilde's second chance love overcome family doubts and past mistakes for a lifetime of happiness?

Love Under the Cold Moon, by Vanessa Kilmer: A headstrong Celtic woman and a reluctant Roman heir clash and connect in an arranged marriage during the Alpine winter festivals of 193 AD.

Finding a Date for Christmas by Vickey Wollan: Joan’s going to a Christmas gala and hires Mack on Rent-A-Date. If he reveals his secret, will he get a second date? Can two lonely hearts find romance in time for Christmas?

Snowbound Hearts, by C.L. Hart: When a divorced couple ends up stuck in a snowbound lodge in the Sierra Nevada mountains, it could either be the worst Christmas ever or a second chance to make things right.

A Fluffy White Christmas - A Tail of Love, by Sally Murphy: Can a half-starved stray dog help a lonely woman open up her frozen heart to a new love this Christmas?

Maiya’s New Year’s Wish, by Marie Morton: Maiya Collins finds herself swept into an unexpected holiday romance in the sun-kissed paradise of St. Croix. Yet, a misunderstanding threatens to shatter her dreams. As the New Year's countdown approaches, she must confront her doubts. Can love prevail, or will her island romance become another broken resolution?

The Naughty List Nightmare, by Erika Kilmer Freidley: Love, traditions, and a mythical menace collide as Thea and Bash get involved in a festive fight to save Pittsburgh's children.

Winter Wonderland by Elizabeth Edgar: Cinderella made her own gown and found her Prince Charming, but will they get their fairy tale ending?

Don’t miss your chance to purchase this collection while it is available.

Proceeds benefit First Coast Romance Writers, an independent non-profit organization that helps writers hone their craft and expand their knowledge of the publishing industry.

Snowbound Hearts by C.L. Hart

When Marta Benscoter gets stuck in a snowbound lodge with her ex-husband and his energetic assistant, she prepares for the worst Christmas ever.

Marta is proud of Adam's recovery from alcohol addiction. He is back to being the man she fell in love with. Giving him another chance is tempting. However, memories of the events leading to their divorce fill her with doubt.

Can Marta and Adam move beyond their past, or is a tenuous friendship all they can hope for?

Excerpt

Enter Adam

Although Adam Benscoter's hair had grayed significantly, he still looked the part of the handsome college quarterback he had been when Marta first met him a lifetime ago. She felt a warmth rising within her, which quickly cooled when she looked at his sidepiece. The tall young Asian woman was about twenty years younger than Adam. Her long, wavy hair was dyed amaranth, and she was dressed in a light coral coat that was entirely inappropriate for the climate.

“Whoo, I’m so glad to be out of that storm!” the young woman proclaimed. “You were a boss on that road, Ad-Man!”

“At least this one looks like she’s been out of high school for more than two years,” Marta muttered under her breath. “I’m so glad we never had any children. Imagine having someone your own age as your stepmother.”

“Hi there, Ladies, I’m Clara Wola,” the young woman introduced herself, extending a friendly hand. “Since it appears we'll be spending lots of time together, we might as well get to know each other.”

“Hi Clara, I’m Ophrah Pololáník. Oh goodness, your hands are so cold! Miss Tia, could we have a hot chocolate over here for this young lady?”

“Dear Ophrah, always the mother hen,” Adam said kindly.

“Wait—you two know each other?” Clara asked.

“Yes, and he knows me too,” Marta said coldly. “Hello, Clara, I’m Marta Benscoter, your—what is he to you, Dear?”

“He’s my boss,” Clara said, a puzzled expression on her face. “But we’ve also become good friends since he hired me six years ago.”

“We’re going to make our partnership official when we get back to Diamond Bar,” Adam said with a grin. “Then she can finally stop calling me Boss.”

“Well, that’s generous of you,” Marta quipped. “I hate to rain on your parade, Ms. Wola, but even if you aren’t officially marrying Saint Adam, I hope you’ve spoken to an attorney about protecting your interests in the event of an eventual dissolution of your partnership.”

“It’s not a romantic partnership; it’s purely business,” Clara corrected. “I’ve been Adam’s assistant at Cloud Limited since getting my doctorate from Oceanside Tech. You must be the ex-wife he won’t talk about. It seems like you two need to iron some things out.”

About the Author

C. L. Hart is an editor who writes or a writer who edits. She primarily writes Lovecraftian fantasy and horror with the occasional sweet romance thrown in to upset the cosmic apple cart. This is her second year participating in the annual For the Love of Winter anthology from First Coast Romance Writers. She is a member of ACES Editing Society, The Denver Horror Collective, First Coast Romance Writers, The H. P. Lovecraft Historical Society, Passionate Ink (writing as Lil DeVille), Regency Romance Writers, and Rocky Mountain Romance Writers.

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Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Tuesday, September 17, 2024