Thursday, April 29, 2021

📚 Back Story: GUINEVERE TRILOGY by Cheryl Carpinello #BackStories @ccarpinello

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Back Story: GUINEVERE TRILOGY


By Cheryl Carpinello


My Writing Start

My writing career started in 1980 with an entry level position with Cardiff Publishing, which published trade journals. I worked my way up to Managing Editor of Satellite Communications magazine. After five years of writing feature articles, editing, and doing some


freelance work, I followed my first love and finished my teaching degree. For the next 26 years, I taught high school English including writing/reading and yearbook. During this time, I honed my writing and editing skills as well as guiding young writers.

Over the years, I wrote a couple novels which will never see the light of day. The main reason: I wasn’t excited about the genres. After working with readers, reluctant readers, and non-readers at the high school level, I decided I wanted to write stories for elementary/middle school students in hopes of catching the reluctant readers and non-readers early in their schooling.

It wasn’t until I was close to retirement that I discovered my writing niche. Teaching allowed me to explore deeper the writings and authors from times long past. This was where I fell in love with the Ancient and Medieval worlds and discovered the mystic pull these same worlds, particularly Arthurian Legend, had on my students and many adults.

And so, I set my books—the Guinevere Trilogy and The King’s Ransom (Young Knights of the Round Table)—in the days of King Arthur. Aimed at upper elementary and middle school—ages 8/9-12—these tales allow readers to experience that time period through the eyes of peer characters. Today, I pair these books with Medieval Writing Workshops in the schools. It’s so rewarding when teachers point out students—who typically did as little as possible in class—involved in developing their own stories and writing their own poetry. This is what the Arthurian Legend does for people.

I’ve since branched out into Ancient Egypt with the publication of Tutankhamen Speaks and Sons of the Sphinx. While still focusing on reluctant and non-readers, these books are aimed for ages 14 & up. Currently in the works, my 5-book series The Feathers of the Phoenix set in the ancient worlds of Atlantis, Pompeii, Iceland, Celtic Britain, and, once more, Egypt, will bring more ancient tales to my readers.

My Publishing Journey

I’ve done both small press and Indie publishing and been successful with both, but I now am a proud Indie author.

When my first story Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend was ready to go, I sent out the usual letters to agents and publishers. While waiting for replies, I attended an SCBWI conference in the fall of 2008. At a panel of agents and publishers, one of the publishers told our group that any books they acquired in 2009 would be scheduled for publishing in 2012. That’s right, 2012.  That panel session was a turning point for my writing. I didn’t want to wait three years to have a book in my hands that I could use with reluctant young readers, my target audience. So, I made the decision to self-publish.

Additionally, I developed Medieval writing workshops for students in grades 3-6 with Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend as the textbook. In 2009, I published Guinevere with Outskirts Press for a cost of $1000 and started conducting Medieval Writing Workshops in elementary schools and with the Girl Scouts in the fall of 2009. Had Guinevere been acquired by an agent/publisher, I would not have been able to do that.

Being an Indie author is not for the faint of heart. It is a lot of hard work beyond the writing, but it is also very rewarding.

 




 

Cheryl Carpinello taught high school English for 25 years. During that time, she worked with numerous students who didn’t like to read for a variety of reasons. However, she discovered that even the most reluctant readers became engaged in the classroom and in reading when she introduced units on King Arthur and the works of ancient world writers. Upon retiring, she set out to write fast-paced, action-filled stories in these setting to encourage young readers to read more. When not writing, you can find her reading, spending time with family, and traveling.

Cheryl’s books:

Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend (1)

Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend (2)

Guinevere: The Legend (3)

Guinevere Trilogy ebook only

The King’s Ransom (Young Knights of the Round Table)

Sons of the Sphinx

Tutankhamen Speaks

Grandma/Grandpa’s Tales 1

Grandma/Grandpa’s Tales 2

WEBSITE & SOCIAL LINKS:

Website: https://www.cherylcarpinello.com

Blog: carpinelloswritingpages.blogspot.com

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/ccarpinello

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.carpinello1





Title: GUINEVERE TRILOGY
Author: Cheryl Carpinello
Publisher: Silver Quill Publishing
Pages: 371
Genre: Middle Grade / Teen / Young YA

BOOK BLURBS:

GUINEVERE: ON THE EVE OF LEGEND

Princess Guinevere dreaded her upcoming thirteenth birthday. It signaled the beginning of her official role as the Lady of her father’s castle.
No more adventures in the forest with Cedwyn. No more explorations outside the castle walls. No more excitement. No more danger. No more fun.
Cedwyn—her companion for as long as she remembered—viewed her circumstances differently.
A Medieval coming-of-age story relevant today.

GUINEVERE: AT THE DAWN OF LEGEND

Ancient Stones. Mystical Stones. Autumnal Equinox.
Down upon a wide plain the yellow orb shines strong.
Racing side by side, the two laughingly ride.
A mist descends. The laughing stops.
A dangerous Medieval tale of two friends. Of a loyalty not often seen.

GUINEVERE: THE LEGEND

Fiercely loyal, Cedwyn always rushes to Guinevere’s defense. Stubborn to a fault. Always there for her. A future Knight? His one and only hope. A hero? Not what Cedwyn strove for, but it sought him.

Guinevere rarely thinks with her head. Just the opposite. Thinking with one’s heart: a recipe for trouble. And trouble finds Guinevere, all too often. Stubborn, she refuses to abandon those depending upon her. Even when ordered by her father, the king.

And so these two—both on the edge of Legend—barrel forth in this deadly dangerous and riveting Arthurian adventure.

PRAISE

Reader’s Favorite 5-Star: A Gripping Tale.

Guinevere: The Legend is the concluding entry in the Guinevere trilogy by Cheryl Carpinello, a compelling Arthurian tale with strong characters and a story that explores the themes of friendship and loyalty against the backdrop of a society rocked by a crisis. The little children have been kidnapped, and Cedwyn is with them. Guinevere has made a vow to rescue Cedwyn and she leaves home without telling her father, an act that fills her with guilt. But she doesn’t know her bravery might put Cedwyn in harm’s way. She is just fifteen. And eleven-year-old Cedwyn trusts her absolutely, considering her as his queen. He is certain that she’s coming for him and the children. Can she save them from the renegades who hold the children captive? Traveling across the dark waters to the land beyond, Gaul, is perilous. In spite of the grim tales she’s heard from the old wizard Merlyn, will she continue?

This is a beautifully written story with fascinating characters, set in medieval England, and featuring characters of legend like the legendary King Arthur and Merlyn. In this novel, the author deftly develops a tale of adventure that revolves around Guinevere as a young girl and her loyalty to those she loves. The reader encounters her at the very start of the story, poised and on the go, determined to save her friend. Cedwyn is a richly developed young character as well and I enjoyed the way the author develops his friendship and devotion to the protagonist. The writing is filled with strong imagery, including elements of the setting like the rugged landscapes. The author’s unique ability to unveil the strong emotions of the characters and to keep the story realistic is a great addition to the strengths of the novel. The medieval era is reflected in the unique style of conversation and in the beliefs of the characters. Guinevere: The Legend is a gripping tale that keeps the reader turning the pages until the very last one…Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers’ Favorite


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Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Pre-Release Blitz: ADULT SUPERVISION REQUIRED by Sarah Peis #blitz #bookblitz

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She wants a better life for her kids. He wants the money her ex owns his club. When their worlds collide, this broody hot boy might just realize how well the single mom fits into his life…



By Sarah Peis

Title: ADULT SUPERVISION REQUIRED
Author: Sarah Peis
Publisher: Hexatorial
Genre: Romantic Comedy

BOOK BLURB:

“We don’t lick people.”

“Don’t we?”

Nora Lindberg doesn’t let life get her down. Disowned by her family and left by the man who was supposed to love her for the rest of their lives, she packs up her kids and goes in search of a second chance.

The small town she lands in was supposed to be her fresh start, her chance at a better life. But instead, she’s a broke single mom who spends her nights looking for the chocolate she hid from her kids.

When her ex lands on the local Motorcycle Club’s most wanted list and leads them straight to her door, her life is once again turned upside down.

But maybe a broody hot guy on a motorcycle is just the thing she never asked for but got anyway.

Now the only question is: Will he be her saviour or her downfall?

This is a standalone romantic comedy. It releases on May 6.



“Why are you looking under the table? Your kids are still fast asleep upstairs,” Talon asked, watching me stick my head under the table.

“Just checking,” I muttered, my face feeling numb.

I’d had too much to drink. Five shots were too much for me. I hated tequila. But the guys looked so hopeful when I came back down. And then they offered me alcohol, and it felt rude to say no.

“Checking for what?” he asked, looking under the table as well.

“The orgies?” I said and slapped a hand over my mouth. That thought was supposed to stay in my head.

“Orgies? We don’t have orgies in the main room. And definitely not under the table. Not enough space,” Talon said and then broke out into roaring laughter.

I pushed him, his tall frame not moving an inch. “That’s not… I meant… it was just…”

“I think you’ve got bad reception. You’re cutting out,” Talon said, watching me with a twinkle in his eyes.

“You really thought we’d just all get down to business right here?” Gears asked, amusement evident on his face.

“I read books,” I said, blinking to clear my vision.

“Books of what? Orgies?”

“Bikers.”

Talon shook his head, his eyes still beaming with mirth. “You might see someone’s naked ass by the end of the night, but we keep the rest in our rooms. Sorry to disappoint.”

I’d come to realize that everyone was really easygoing. They all seemed to care about each other, liked to joke around, and welcomed me like I was their long-lost sister.

Being part of something meant a lot to me. Being part of a family, even if it wasn’t by blood, meant even more, especially since my own had discarded me so easily.

“I love you guys,” I declared, throwing my arms around Talon’s shoulders and my body into his arms, orgies forgotten.

He caught me, squeezing me around my middle. “How are you this drunk already?”

After hugging the other guys in the group that consisted of Gears, Grim, and a man they called Smoke, I settled back in my seat. I had a permanent smile attached to my face, my cheeks aching.

“I’m not drunk, you are,” I said, crossing my arms over my chest.

“You’ve had five shots over three hours and you can’t even figure out how to cross your arms. That’s the definition of a lightweight,” Gears said, taking a drink of his beer.

I looked down and noticed I hadn’t crossed my arms but instead was holding my own hand over my chest. Huh, I really thought I’d crossed them.

I squinted at the monitor sitting on the table. The image was grainy, but when I saw Luca and Lena still fast asleep, I relaxed back into the couch.

“So how did you meet Ace?” Gears asked. “You don’t seem like his type.”

“You mean he doesn’t like a woman with a brain? Or is it the kids? The half-Asian thing? You gotta be more specific here, dude.”

Grim smacked Gears over the head and murmured something to him, causing his face to blanch.

“Sorry, Nora, that’s not what I meant. Forget I said anything,” Gears said, his eyes shifting from me to Grim and back.

I waved him off, too drunk and happy to be offended by the comment. “Don’t worry about it. I know I’m not exactly a catch.”

Grim heaved himself up and squeezed in next to me. “Girl, if I was twenty years younger, I’d ask you to marry me today. You are the full package. You can cook, you’re gorgeous, you’re funny and smart, and did I mention you’re gorgeous?”

I leaned my head on his shoulder. “Thanks, Grim. That’s a really nice thing to say.”

“Don’t let Ace hear you,” Talon said from Grim’s other side. “He’ll make you disappear faster than you can say ‘wedding.’”

Grim grunted in agreement and patted my hand that was holding on to his bicep. “I don’t fear many things, but that man’s wrath is one of them. Sorry, girly, no marriage for us.”

“Shame. I was looking forward to it. I’ve never been married before.”

There was silence on the table and I sat up, brushing my hair out of my eyes. “What? I bet none of you have been either.”

“You didn’t marry the kids’ father?” Talon asked.

“Nope. We were together eight years, had two kids, and he always said it wasn’t the right time. Should have known something was up. But I guess I like to learn my life lessons the hard way. Anyway, it all worked out for the best, because there’s no way I could afford an attorney to get a divorce.”

“That deserves another drink,” Grim announced and got up.

 













Supporter of all things written, defender of the e-book revolution and master of the take out order – Sarah Peis is not afraid to admit she can’t cook, go a week without breaking something, read labels correctly or park cars in a straight line.

She loves the written word in all forms and shapes and if she’s not glued to a book, she’s attempting to write one. Sarah is a frequent blonde moment sufferer and still trying to figure out how to adult. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her two little humans, the holder of her heart and two furry demons. She loves to hear from readers so feel free to get in touch.



Website: www.sarahpeis.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahpeisbooks









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Sunday, April 18, 2021

Back Story: PHENOMENAL VISION EYESIGHT TO LIFE SIGHT by Rev. Dr. Leonidas A. Johnson #BackStories

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Back Story: PHENOMENAL VISION EYESIGHT TO LIFE SIGHT


By Rev. Dr. Leonidas A. Johnson


Life can be a funny thing. One day you are riding high and the next you’re so low that you are begging for bread. One day you are as healthy as an ox and the next you’re gasping for each breath of life. One minute people are singing your praises and the next they are treating you like you are the scum of the earth. Yes, life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes is hard to make sense of all the wacky and crazy things that happen to us and around us. This is why I wrote this book. I believe I have discovered a way to view ourselves and the world God created in a way that can help bring life’s events into better focus.

I am a licensed optometrist and a third-generation preacher. I’ve spent a lifetime helping people to see. Vision is what I know, vision is what I do and I want to help you see yourself and the world God created more clearly. It is easier to make good decisions in life when you can see what you are dealing with.

Vision, what is it? Vision is a physical, mental and spiritual phenomena of enlightenment. What I have discovered is that physical vision is very similar to spiritual vision and the mind is the bridge between the two. If we use a process called learning by comparison, we can learn certain aspects about physical vision and take that knowledge and compare it to spiritual vision. This can lead to a new or renewed sight of life that can simply be described as phenomenal.

With the way the things are going in the world I believe it is critical that more and more people become aware of the importance of spiritual vision and encourage people of all races, tribes, nations and languages to invest in improving not only their spiritual vision but their overall visual health and wellbeing.  

Next to life itself, God’s greatest gift is vision, because vision is the window to this mysterious thing called life.




Rev. Dr. Johnson attended Evanston Township High School. From there he went on to study at Illinois Wesleyan University.  His professional education for his Doctor of Optometry degree was completed at the Southern California College of Optometry, now known as Marshall B. Ketchum University.  Rev. Dr. Johnson received his Master’s degree at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. “I plan on leading a crusade against blindness due to age related cataracts. I’m able to do all these things because I serve a great God who does great things and He has allowed me to do great things,” commented Rev. Dr. Johnson. He has set up a foundation known as the Rev. Dr. Leonidas The Optometrist and The Miracle Eyes Foundation. See this web site for more information www.revleonidastheoptometrist.org. Due to his work demands – Dr. Johnson lives in both Chicago and Los Angeles.

Visit his website at www.revleonidastheoptometrist.org.

 


Title: PHENOMENAL VISION EYESIGHT TO LIFE SIGHT
Author: Rev. Dr. Leonidas A. Johnson
Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
Pages: 116
Genre: Nonfiction

BOOK BLURB:

“I’ve spent my life helping people to see, both as a licensed optometrist and also as an ordained minister,” said author Rev. Dr. Leonidas Johnson. “Vision, what is it? I discovered that physical vision is very similar to spiritual vision and the mind is the bridge between the two.”

In Rev. Dr. Johnson’s book, readers will experience a concept called learning by comparison. Comparing physical vision with spiritual vision will help the readers see themselves and the world God created in a whole new light. Readers will see the world God created from a physical, mental, and spiritual vantage point that will enrich their lives, Rev. Dr. Johnson says. These vantage points help build a foundation for developing a decision-making strategy that is both liberating and biblically sound.

Rev. Dr. Johnson went on to say “The title of my book – – Phenomenal Vision: Eyesight To Life Sight – – came after contemplating the impact vision has on one’s life, not just physical but eternal. It leans into the concept of one’s worldview. A proper view of oneself and the world can deeply impact the outcome of one’s life. Jesus said I come that might have life and have it more abundantly. How can you see physical beauty if you are physically blind? Conversely, how can you have an abundant life if you are spiritually blind?  Vision should never be taken for granted and vision that incorporates physical, mental and spiritual vantage points is not ordinary but phenomenal and lead to a phenomenal life.”

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Monday, April 12, 2021

Q&A with Richard Robbins Author of The Tormenting Beauty of Empathy #Q&A

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Today's guest is Richard Robbins, author of the literary / spiritual fiction novel, THE TORMENTING BEAUTY OF EMPATHY. Richard is here with us today to tell us more about the man behind the book.

 
 

What do you look like? Progressively more like my father each year.

Where are you today and what are you doing? I had the joy of fulfilling a dream I’ve had since college and moving back to New Orleans. This city has a wonderful coffee culture, beginning with its French Settlers, and continuing to the present day as one of the world’s leading ports for coffee imports. The city is full of charming independent coffee shops, and you’ll find me most days sitting in one, tapping on my laptop, and sipping coffee and chicory.

You come face to face with your worse enemy. How do you react? Fortunately, I do not believe I have enemies, and have tried, mostly successfully, to live a life with minimal conflict. I believe in, and have studied, win/win relationships and compassionate business, and generally attempt to defuse conflict. I mean, the word empathy is in my book title!

How would your parents describe you? I am the youngest of four boys, and blessed to have had wonderful parents, both of which are now deceased. The differences between siblings have always been a source of fascination to me, and is a recurring theme in my work. I believe the most interesting drama results from family dynamics. But back to your question, they would describe my oldest as the best athlete and most emotional, the second as the most ambitious, the third as the kindest, and me as the second most of each of those qualities. Simplistic, but I don’t think I’d get pushback from any of my brothers from this characterization.

Who is your best friend? I am lucky enough to have many close friends, but there is a group of five of us who have been friends since grade school who I feel are my second brothers. But I’ve never told anybody this, one of my login security questions asks, “Who is your best friend?”, and the answer is always Kevin.

Are you faith-oriented? I am more spiritual than religious. My current release, The Tormenting Beauty of Empathy, addresses spirituality and my views on having a personal relationship with a higher power. I do not believe you must follow ritual to be spiritual, but it is hard for me to see the complexity and diversity of life and imagine that it occurred entirely by chance.

Are you married or in a relationship? I have been married for thirty-two years to my soul mate and life’s love.

Do you have children? We have three adult children. I have worked hard for many things in life, but have never had a more challenging and rewarding experience than raising my three children. They are what I am most proud of in my life. 

 




Richard Robbins’ novels explore the complexities of family dynamics to address important moral questions, while imparting a strong sense of location. His first novel, Love, Loss, and Lagniappe takes to the streets of New Orleans and New York City to explore the journey of self-discovery after heartbreaking loss, while revealing the scientific basis for the meaning of life. His second novel, Panicles, covers the lives of two intertwined families in and around Washington DC, while addressing the price of fame and fortune.

His new release, The Tormenting Beauty of Empathy, follows Hana, a young Guatemalan immigrant mute from childhood tragedy, as her quiet life is upended by the birth of a daughter who turns out to be different. And special. The kind of special that soon draws worldwide attention, for the better, and worse…

Richard was named Louisiana Independent Author of the Year for 2020, and his works have won numerous awards, including the Feathered Quill Book Awards and the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards. He lives in New Orleans and New York City with his wife Lisa, near their beloved grown children.

WEBSITE & SOCIAL LINKS:

Website: www.Robbinsbooks.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richard.robbins.7737




Hana, a young Guatemalan woman who fell mute from a childhood tragedy, flees the brutal Civil War ravaging her country in search of a better life in the United States. Soon after arriving, she discovers she’s pregnant, and is banished from her new home and sent to live in a Mayan community in Indiantown, Florida.

There, she settles into a peaceful life of embroidery and raising her child, a daughter who turns out to be… different… and special—the kind of special that soon draws worldwide attention, for the better and worse.

PRAISE

“…a heart-warming, somewhat traumatic journey into the world of spirituality and the human condition. I was deeply touched by The Tormenting Beauty of Empathy. This is a beautiful, touching, and redeeming tale that I can highly recommend to everyone. When as a reader you feel better inside for having read a book, you know the author has achieved his or her goal. This is such a book.” ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, Grant Leishman (5 STARS)

“Like the simple faith aspired to in The Tormenting Beauty of Empathy by Richard Robbins, the story moves with basic grace…. This tale is told with heartfelt belief, but also with an unswerving directness that feels preordained… appealing to the contemporary Christian message of love and kindness.” ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, Joel R. Dennstedt (5 STARS)

“…a thoughtful take on an age-old theme.” ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, Lucinda E. Clarke (5 STARS)

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