Blog Archives
Hello Flower
Hello Flower: A Real Life Story of Narcissistic Love and Invisible Abuse, by Martina Gruppo, is a compelling and insightful non-fiction biographical account that delves into the pervasive and insidious nature of narcissistic abuse. Gruppo’s narrative is a stark reminder that narcissism, an often unseen and underestimated form of abuse, can ensnare even the most resilient individuals. The subtlety and unpredictability of this psychological manipulation make it a particularly dangerous form of harm.
In Hello Flower, Gruppo provides victims and readers with the tools to recognize and recover from narcissistic abuse, offering practical advice for those currently in abusive relationships or those who have managed to break free. Her writing is raw and genuine, showcasing her talent as a storyteller and her bravery in recounting her own harrowing experiences of manipulation, humiliation, and mental abuse at the hands of a narcissist. Gruppo’s candid reflection on her youthful naivety adds a poignant layer of vulnerability to her story. Gruppo’s publicized recounting of her experiences is both urgent and captivating, making the book a gripping read. Her words serve as a soothing balm for those who have endured similar trauma, helping them to identify and understand the disorder. She encapsulates the despair of dealing with a narcissist in a powerful statement: “It doesn’t matter what you do, say, how you dress, or how hard you try—you simply aren’t there. You don’t matter.” This painful truth, especially when the narcissist is a close family member or partner, is the first step toward healing.
This book is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand narcissism and its effects. Gruppo’s work is not only an educational tool but also a guide for those looking to reclaim their lives and self-worth after enduring narcissistic abuse. Her insights and encouragement help readers emerge stronger and ready to live life to the fullest.
I highly recommend Hello Flower to anyone seeking to learn about narcissistic abuse or to find solace and guidance on their path to recovery. Martina Gruppo’s book is a testament to resilience and a beacon of hope for those striving to heal from invisible wounds.
Pages: 258 | ASIN : B0D4VTQLDK
Welcome to the Bright: The Winding Path from Survivor to Thrivor
Welcome To The Bright, The Winding Path From Survivor To Thrivor, by Lisa Febre, is a candidly written memoir that chronicles the journey of 48-year-old Lisa as she learns she has overcome stage 4C colon cancer. After a grueling year-long battle involving chemotherapy and radiation treatments, Lisa faces the daunting task of readjusting her life as a cancer survivor. This memoir delves into her struggles with anxiety, panic attacks, and the challenge of rediscovering the life she fought so hard to regain. Febre answers these and other pressing questions that anyone affected by cancer would seek to understand.
Febre’s writing is emotionally charged and compelling. She masterfully conveys her remarkable stability and commendable stamina. The memoir provides not only factual insights into the process of overcoming cancer but also intimate details of her battle with the disease. Readers are taken through her tumultuous journey of rediscovery, highlighting the highs and lows that come with adjusting to a new, cancer-free life after her first clear scan.
The depth and insight in Febre’s testimony make it an immersive read. Her narrative is filled with determination, hope, anxiety, and fear of the unknown, allowing readers to feel as though they are experiencing the journey alongside her. The book is a testament to her resilience and the profound transformation she undergoes.
Welcome To The Bright, The Winding Path From Survivor To Thrivor, by Lisa Febre, is a powerful memoir written by a gifted author. I highly recommend it to anyone, whether they are dealing with cancer themselves or supporting a loved one through the disease. Febre’s ability to turn fear and pain into a story of survival and light, even in the bleakest circumstances, is truly inspiring.
Pages: 280 | ISBN : 978-1685134891
When The Bell Rings – A Firefighters Journey
When the Bell Rings, by Robert Gass, is a thoughtful memoir that delves into the life of a firefighter. Gass shares his real-life experiences and stories, giving readers an intimate look at the emotional and mental battles attached to the profession. This book transcends the job itself, highlighting the emotional and mental challenges that come with it. Gass vividly recounts tales of bravery, hard work, and resilience, honoring the men and women in his profession who face danger daily. His ability to capture the essence of firefighting makes this memoir a compelling read.
The title immediately caught my attention, evoking a sense of personal connection and curiosity. The chapter names, carefully chosen and beautifully crafted, set the tone for the descriptive, poetic writing that follows. Gass intended to provide an uncensored peek into a firefighter’s life, and he succeeds admirably. The memoir is filled with personal anecdotes that illustrate the intensity and danger of the job, balanced by moments of reflection and appreciation. The writing is undoubtedly the highlight of this memoir. Gass’s vivid descriptions transport readers into the heart of the action, making them feel as though they are right there with him, whether fighting a blaze or enjoying a moment of peace.
Short chapters make this an easy, engrossing read that is hard to put down. A prominent theme throughout the book is resilience. Gass highlights moments of sheer bravery and hope amidst circumstances that could easily lead to despair. He doesn’t shy away from discussing the impact of firefighting on mental health, addressing PTSD, the toll on family life, and coping mechanisms. This honesty adds depth to the book, elevating it beyond a series of action-packed episodes. When the Bell Rings is a remarkable read and Gass successfully honors his colleagues while showcasing the heroism of firefighters.
When the Bell Rings is a must-read for anyone interested in the real-life experiences of firefighters or those curious about the behind-the-scenes of this critical profession. It is touching, honest, and deeply respectful of those who face these dangers daily.
Pages: 399 | ASIN : B0D6RLH36H
Family and Community
Morocco: A Remembrance of Childhood is a nostalgic journey through your early years living in Morocco as the son of a U.S. Navy pilot and the impact the culture had on your outlook on life and beliefs. Why was this an important book for you to write?
For reasons I couldn’t initially explain, I have retained many vivid memories of my formative years, ages 5-7, in Morocco. Although I’d never considered writing a memoir, the more I thought about those years, the more I became convinced that my adult perspectives on life had been determined largely by my experiences in Morocco. From that point forward, writing the book became somewhat of a compulsion, albeit one that took over three years to complete given the research involved as well as a one-year hiatus resulting from the sudden and unexpected death of my wife of 46 years.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
On a personal level, I wanted to capture the wonders and joys that we all experience during the process of maturing, as well as the ecstasy and agony of growing up as a military brat. The former resulting from the opportunity to experience many different people and places and the latter resulting from constant need to move on and leave all such people and places behind. With regard to Morocco, I wanted to capture its colorful, fascinating and incredibly long history, as well as the unique religion and culture of its Berber and Arab populations, all of which have combined to produce what is arguably the most open, friendly and egalitarian population of humans on the planet. Finally, given my time in Morocco, during the mid 1950’s, I wanted to track the way in which the country’s Arab/urban population and it’s Berber/rural population became united in their efforts to rid the country of French colonists who had taken over their country as a result of the Treaty of Fez, executed in 1912–an effort that in numerous ways paralleled the struggle of Black Americans to attain their civil rights during the 1950’s.
What is something that you think will surprise readers the most in your book?
Unless you’re well-versed in medieval history, most readers will probably be surprised to learn that for a time Morocco was one of the richest and most powerful nations on earth, financed by camel caravans, transporting a river of wealth from sub-Saharan Africa, and pirates, plundering both European ships and coastal towns. Riding on the crest of such wealth, Berber horsemen captured much of northern Africa, all of modern-day Spain and even a small part of modern-day France. However, with the advent of modern shipping in the 1500’s, the river of wealth from the caravans gradually dried up and Morocco’s focus turned inward.
What do you hope is one thing readers take away from your story?
The Moroccan ethos, which is centered on family and community, provides humanity with a far better path forward than one focused on individual power, prestige and wealth.
Author Website
I hope you enjoy reading this book half as much as I enjoyed writing it. It was a labor of love for me to reach back and re-create my formative years, ages 5 to 7, growing up as the son of a U.S. Navy pilot in Port Lyautey, French Morocco, during the mid-1950’s, at a time when Morocco was the epicenter of the United States’ Cold War efforts to deter and contain the Soviet Union through aerial reconnaissance and nuclear weapons.
During my time in Morocco, the country’s Berber/rural and Arab/urban populations became united in their efforts to rid themselves of the French colonists who had taken over their country as a result of the Treaty of Fez, executed in 1912—an effort that in numerous ways paralleled the struggle of Black Americans to attain their civil rights during the 1950’s.
In addition to relating my personal experiences, both humorous and telling, dealing with the family dynamics of a Navy brat, I describe the many ways in which my life intersected the cross-currents emanating from the Cold War and colonialism.
To explore the unique relationship between the country’s Berber and Arab populations, I delve into Morocco’s incredibly long, colorful and interesting history, as well as the religious and cultural beliefs that have combined to produce what is, arguably, the most open, friendly and egalitarian human population on the planet.
Finally, I make the case that the Moroccan ethos, which is centered on family and community, provides humanity with a far better path forward than one focused on the attainment of individual power, prestige and wealth.
I’m Not Dead…Yet: How I Turned My Misfortunes Into Strengths
I’m Not Dead…Yet, by Dr. Joshua J. Caraballo, is a profound narrative of personal resilience and transformation. The book chronicles Caraballo’s tumultuous journey through the adversities of cancer, addiction, mental health struggles, and time in prison, ultimately leading to self-acceptance and redemption. It’s a raw reflection on the human condition, framed by Caraballo’s unique experiences as a gay Puerto Rican man navigating a world often unkind to those who are different.
Caraballo’s writing is both engaging and unflinchingly honest. He draws the reader in with vivid descriptions of his early life, such as his experiences with racial discrimination and the challenges of growing up as a queer person in a conservative environment. The way he recounts these memories, with a blend of humor and pathos, makes the narrative incredibly compelling.
One of the book’s strengths is Caraballo’s ability to reflect on his experiences with a critical yet compassionate eye. His discussion of addiction and mental health is particularly powerful, offering a candid look at the destructive cycles he found himself in and the painful process of breaking free from them. His account of the two years of torture due to Hodgkin’s lymphoma is harrowing, yet it’s his reflection on becoming the victim and eventually rising above it that is truly inspiring. Caraballo’s exploration of identity is another highlight. His journey to self-acceptance, particularly regarding his sexuality, is a central theme. His narrative about finding solace in storytelling and the arts, and how these passions helped him navigate his identity, is deeply moving.
I’m Not Dead…Yet is a must-read for anyone interested in stories of personal transformation and resilience. Dr. Caraballo’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of self-acceptance. His honest reflections offer valuable insights into the struggles faced by those dealing with illness, addiction, and societal prejudice. This book is particularly recommended for readers who appreciate memoirs that don’t shy away from the harsh realities of life, yet find hope and redemption within them.
Pages: 217 | ASIN : B0CZT4NH32
Morocco, A Remembrance of Childhood
Morocco: A Remembrance of Childhood is a nostalgic journey through the author’s early years spent in various locales, with a significant portion dedicated to his time in Morocco. This memoir captures the essence of a childhood filled with adventure, discovery, and the bittersweet transitions that come with growing up in a military family. The narrative begins with James Farmer’s vivid recollections from as early as three years old, setting the stage for a life marked by constant movement and rich, diverse experiences.
Farmer’s writing is imbued with a sense of warmth and authenticity, making the reader feel as though they are sitting across from an old friend, listening to stories of bygone days. One of the strengths of this book is its ability to transport the reader to various settings, from the mundane routines in small-town America to the exotic landscapes of mid-20th century Morocco.
The book excels in painting a vivid picture of the time and places it covers. Farmer’s portrayal of Hutchinson, Kansas, as a quintessentially American town of the 1950s is rich with details that evoke a strong sense of place and time. His reflections on the cultural and social norms of the era provide a valuable historical context that enriches the narrative. Similarly, the descriptions of Morocco, with its contrasting landscapes and unique cultural milieu, offer a fascinating glimpse into a world that many readers may find unfamiliar yet captivating.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this heartfelt and engaging memoir, I feel that some of the author’s reflections may not resonate with all readers. Farmer’s ability to recall his early years with such clarity and emotion is truly commendable, and his stories are likely to strike a chord with anyone who has experienced the joys and challenges of a roaming lifestyle. The book is particularly well-suited for readers who enjoy memoirs and historical narratives, as well as readers interested in the cultural contrasts between mid-century America and North Africa.
James B. Farmer’s memoir is a poignant and evocative exploration of a unique childhood. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an intimate, personal account of growing up in a time of great change, both at home and abroad.
Pages: 573 | ASIN : B0D2B21Y5V
Their Tragic Passion
In Dancing in the Ring, you highlighted the story of a couple in 1920s and 30s Detroit who became known for their fierce commitment to social justice as they gained fame in dance halls and the boxing ring. What inspired you to write this story?
The story of my great aunt and uncle was one that my father shared quite often when I was growing up. Every time I heard it, or some part of it, I was amazed by these two relatives whom I had never met. While my father wasn’t the best storyteller, he talked about them with such passion that I could easily envision them. When I was younger, I probably romanticized Kate and Bob—their tragic passion. My father always encouraged me to write about them. I never thought I would until a few years ago. At that time, I had several vivid dreams about them, as well as my paternal grandparents. This was before I gave serious thought to writing the book. I guess you could say, the dreams inspired me, as well. As I was doing research for the book I was struck by their commitment to social justice and knew I wanted to incorporate it into the book. I didn’t want it to be simply their romantic courtship followed by their difficult marriage. Their lives were so much more than that. I was also inspired because I felt a need to honor their short lives.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
I did a fair amount of research. I spent several months poring through family notes, photos, a few newspaper articles, and my father’s written account. I had a fair amount of information about my great uncle, but less about my aunt. There was very little I could find online, though I did find a few photos, as well as her college yearbook and some about his boxing career. While most of the characters were based on real people, some were not. I had no choice but to fill in the gaps with my imagination. Researching Detroit history online, as well as in a few books, helped me visualize the era. I spent close to a year on research, and almost two years writing the book. I worked from extensive notes and more of an outline than I usually do.
Were there any characters that you especially enjoyed writing for?
I especially enjoyed writing about Bob because I had more information about the Sage side of the family. Piecing it together made me feel like a sleuth. And yet I loved imagining what Kate must have been like, too. Since her family members were completely fictitious, I worried that it would be obvious. I wasn’t sure I could effectively fill in all the gaps. From the feedback I’ve received, I think I managed to do so. Another character I had a lot of fun writing about was Nana, Bob’s mother, who was my great-grandmother.
Can we look forward to more historical fiction from you soon? What are you currently working on?
This was my first attempt at writing historical fiction. I do have an idea for another one, but I’ve only written preliminary notes. My latest book will be published by Black Rose Writing this December. It’s a madcap river trip set in the 2030s. Magic Realism/Dystopian fiction probably best describes the novel’s genre. I’m currently working on a sequel.
Author Links: Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Stories of My Younger Years
Tossa: The Life and Times of an Irish Cowboy is not nearly a memoir recounting your life experiences, but a reflection on the lessons you learned along the way. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I started writing a memoir as a hobby. It was never a vanity project, but something I could do after coming home at all hours of the morning, after doing night shifts at whatever Hotel I was working at, at the time. I had become an avid reader of non-fiction by this time (my mid-20s) and just thought I’d give it a crack. It took me many years to complete because at times I couldn’t wait to get home and write. And other stages, for various reasons, I didn’t touch it for months at a time. But as time and life rolled on, it became important to me to see how far I could go with it. I just wanted it in some kind of book form. I had spent a lot of time on it and wanted to see it through.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
Difficult to pinpoint one thing. My bed-wetting was a major problem for me as a teenager. I never thought I would share that with anyone who wasn’t around me at the time. I made light of it a bit, but it was hard at the time. Also, writing about my sister was a bit stressful. It was written at a time when we were at our lowest, as far as getting on together goes. I was probably a bit rough on her, but what I wrote is truthful, and we still don’t talk. And as far as I know, she hasn’t even read it. But I’m sure she will come across it at some stage. It wasn’t hard to write about my parents passing away at a young age, but it was painful. Still is. I was close to both of them, and naturally still miss them so. I should add, that it was frustrating to try and describe what it is like to raise a fantastic son, who is on the Autism Spectrum. It can be a cruel and unfair world out there. But what do you do? We are on a journey and continue to battle on.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
Basically, the whole idea of the book, was to share some stories of my younger years with my wife Michelle. Stories from before I met her. We didn’t meet till our early 20s, which is young I guess, but by then I had been around the block as to speak, many times. The idea was to share with her some of my adolescent humorous tales, to make her laugh. And it just grew from there. It does get a bit deep and heavy at some stages I guess. However, I just enjoyed reminiscing and writing so much.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
I just hope that whoever happens to read it, has a laugh. That was always my main intention. There is good and bad in this world, and you just have to cut through to the humour. I hope the readers pick up that I had a good upbringing and fun childhood. Even when being a bit naughty, and finding myself in situations that I probably shouldn’t be in, I was usually having a giggle.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
In Tossa: The Life and Times of an Irish Cowboy, Shaun candidly recounts some entertaining tales from his formative years. The memoir delves into growing up in Myrtletown and Zillmere, with his parents, brother Peter, and sister Sharon, his schooling at St Flannan’s Primary School and Aspley High School, his teenage passion for Rugby League, and his numerous escapades with women. Shaun vividly describes his early life experiences, including encountering Cyclone Tracy during his dad’s transfer to Darwin, working in pubs in Brisbane and a brief move to Scarborough, WA, with friends. Such pivotal moments as marriage to Michelle and the birth of their three beautiful children, Kacey, Matthew and Bethany, as well as his eventual career as a fireman are also covered in the book.
With raw honesty and humour, Tossa tells the story of an eventful life marked by laughter, joy, and challenging times, including the heartbreaking loss of his parents, Patrick (Paddy) and Patricia (Tricia) Flynn. As Shaun navigates the highs and lows of family life, friendships and the challenges of middle age, this memoir is a tribute to resilience, camaraderie and the enduring power of love.
LITERARY TITAN 