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Successful Long-Term Relationship
Posted by Literary-Titan

Quiet Love (& Growing It) is a practical guide blending science and social wisdom to help individuals cultivate lasting, fulfilling relationships through patience, growth, and quiet effort. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Everywhere you look, you find unrealistic depictions of what love is. Some people don’t have any examples of what a real, lasting relationship looks like and only see effortless or “romanticized” versions in movies or social media. It’s rare to find people who speak the truth about real love, how to find it, and most importantly, how to keep it.
What surprised you most while researching the science of love, and how can this understanding change the way people approach their relationships?
That there are actually formulas that make us more likely to fall in love, though it is more open-ended than one might think. Also, how quickly our subconscious can make judgments about another person after looking at them. It’s less than one second, though not always accurate for the purposes of a successful long-term relationship.
What advice would you give to couples who feel that their relationship lacks excitement but is still grounded in love and stability?
It sounds unromantic, but I wouldn’t suggest focusing on excitement at all. Excitement comes from the unknown, so as you learn more about each other, the excitement naturally fades. This is perfectly normal and okay, but if you expect it to last forever, you will always be looking for the next relationship. If you focus on consistent everyday actions and a shared purpose, the rest will fall into place toward a lasting and truly fulfilling relationship.
Which myth do you think is most harmful to relationships, and what steps can individuals take to reframe their thinking about love?
The No-Day Rule speaks about this, but anything like the “three-day rule” where you wait three days before contacting someone again after a first date. There’s nothing that will tangle the lines of communication more than things like these. And there’s nothing more attractive than someone who isn’t afraid to show competent and respectful interest in you.
Author Links: Goodreads | Website | Amazon
Do you long for a relationship that isn’t built on excitement and grand gestures but on the quiet, everyday moments? One that isn’t shaken by every challenge but strengthens over time through steady, purposeful love?
In a world full of lust, distractions, and short-lived passions, Quiet Love is your key to a deeper, more fulfilling connection.
Inside this book, you’ll find:
❤️ The 14 principles of “quiet love” that help sustain a relationship at any stage
💡 Insights into handling change to ensure your love grows together rather than apart through life’s unpredictable challenges
🗝 The 4 key factors that keep your relationship thriving in the long run
🙏 Simple but powerful gestures that show love in the smallest, yet most meaningful ways
🌱 How to cultivate shared experiences that deepen your bond and create lasting attachment
And much, much more—backed by 100+ references to scientific journals, articles, and studies.
With Quiet Love, you’ll discover how to nurture a relationship that feels grounded, genuine, and meant to last. Whether you’re single or married, young or experienced, Quiet Love offers timeless wisdom to fortify the foundations of your love life.
Start growing the love you’ve always wanted—click “Buy Now” and take the first step toward a lifetime of relationship success.
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Posted in Interviews
Tags: author, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, dating, ebook, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, Love & Romance, mate seeking, Matthew Hess, nonfiction, nook, novel, Quiet Love (& Growing It), read, reader, reading, relationships, self help, story, writer, writing
A Delicate Balance
Posted by Literary-Titan

In Shelter of the Monument, you share with readers the personal growth you experienced while in a relationship tainted by addiction. Why was it important for you to share your story?
When I was young, shy, and incredibly insecure, the man at the center of this story, gave me the courage to have my own voice, my own place in this world. I didn’t believe I was worthy of that and thus, his gift was huge. I have always credited him with the life I live now. I believe if not for him, I would be someone very different and someone not very happy. Despite this, his reputation didn’t align with what I knew him to be. I felt I owed it to him to share the incredible gift he gave me and to offer a much more positive spin on who he was at heart.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
Once I decided to tell this story, the memories came pouring out. I believe for a memoir to touch others, it must be completely honest. But stories cross into other lives. Thus the hardest part for me was how to tell this story in the way I remember it without hurting others, especially those closest to me. It was a delicate balance and ultimately I accomplished this by changing names and toning down some of my more emotionally charged reflections when possible so as not to hurt others.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about living with a partner battling addiction?
That the person struggling may not want sobriety enough or isn’t trying hard enough, or that the support of one person can fix it all. I learned those lessons the hard way and even though it was often painful, it was yet another gift. Recovery is complicated and for those who love someone battling addiction, the answers may not be as simple as trying harder or supporting more. But the world understands addiction better than when the events of this story took place and thankfully help is more widely available now.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your experience?
People are much more than their addictions.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Sometimes the wrong person says the right thing, and it makes all the difference.
In this coming-of-age memoir we meet Richard, a handsome, charming, mischievous, great guy with a fondness for the 1980s party drug of choice, cocaine. Yvonne is 11 years younger, awkward, terrified of her own shadow and even more frightened by the idea of disappointing anyone in her life.
Their attraction makes no sense.
Despite obstacles beyond their control, they are exactly what each other is drawn to as they set about doing the best they can, in all four seasons of their beautiful, one season town, Provincetown, MA. Their connection remains the one thing that can save Yvonne from herself, even while Richard struggles under the weight of his own self-imposed demons.
What they develop is a relationship that unbeknownst to both of them, would last a lifetime and change Yvonne in ways she never thought possible.
They were not supposed to be together.
Yet, they refused to stay apart.
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Posted in Interviews
Tags: addiction, author, biography, book, book recommendations, book review, Book Reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Dramas & Plays by Women, ebook, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, Love & Romance, memoir, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, Romance Fiction Writing Reference, Shelter of the Monument, story, writer, writing, Yvonne deSousa
The Victorious Vagina – How To Beat A Player At His Game & Win At Self Love
Posted by Literary Titan

Katie Slade’s The Victorious Vagina takes readers on a journey through the highs and lows of modern relationships. Framed as a series of poems preceded by narrative segments, this memoir delves into the emotional rollercoaster experienced by a woman navigating the complexities of love and intimacy in today’s dating landscape. Through her book, Slade underscores the importance of self-love and caution in romantic engagements, offering a candid exploration of her own vulnerabilities and triumphs.
Slade’s writing style is both raw and evocative, adeptly capturing the fervor and despair of her relationships. While the directness of Slade’s language and the rich detail of her personal anecdotes are vivid and engaging, they create an immersive reading experience that vividly brings her emotional journey to life, allowing readers to feel a deep connection with her. The integration of narrative with poetry enriched the text and allowed me to deeply connect with the emotional context behind each poem. The themes are universal, but the execution feels distinctly personal, sometimes bordering on a diary-like confessional.
The Victorious Vagina presents intriguing ideas about gender dynamics, emotional labor, and the societal pressures shaping romantic interactions. I think Slade challenges the reader to reconsider what it means to engage in modern love, pushing against the commodification of intimacy.
Katie Slade’s memoir is a passionate call for self-empowerment in the realm of dating and relationships. I recommend it to readers who appreciate a straightforward and heartfelt exploration of personal growth and resilience. Those who enjoy poetic narratives that are deeply personal and anyone navigating the intricate world of modern relationships will find this book particularly resonant.
Pages: 128 | ASIN : B0BQ1JXPVD
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Posted in Five Stars
Tags: author, biography, book, book recommendations, book review, book reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, ebook, goodreads, happiness, indie author, interpersonal relations, Katie Slade, kindle, kobo, literature, Love & Romance, marriage, memoir, nonfiction, nook, novel, Parenting & Relationships, read, reader, reading, story, The Victorious Vagina - How To Beat A Player At His Game & Win At Self Love, true story, writer, writing
To Venus and Back, One Man’s Quest to Rediscover Love
Posted by Literary Titan

To Venus and Back: One Man’s Quest to Rediscover Love is a poignant and relatable memoir that delves into the complexities of human relationships, grief, and the search for love. It’s an evocative journey that navigates the often-turbulent waters of dating and relationships after the devastating loss of a spouse. Author Turner Grant’s narrative voice is both sincere and engaging, making the reader feel like a confidant rather than just an observer.
I appreciated Grant’s writing style for its honesty and vulnerability. He doesn’t shy away from exposing his personal struggles, uncertainties, and the raw emotions that accompany the loss of a loved one and the subsequent journey toward healing and finding love again. His use of dialogue, particularly in conversations with his sons and friends, adds a layer of authenticity and helps to humanize his experiences. While I enjoyed this memoir, I felt that, at times, the detailed recounting of various dates and encounters felt a bit overwhelming and slightly detracted from the pace.
Otherwise, what I truly enjoyed in this memoir is Grant’s introspective exploration of the societal and personal expectations placed on men in the context of dating and relationships. His narrative challenges the stereotypical notions of masculinity, particularly in how men deal with grief and embark on new relationships. This perspective is a refreshing take on a subject I find is often mired in clichés.
The memoir’s exploration of online dating and the modern dating landscape offers a glimpse into the joys and pitfalls of seeking connection in the digital age. The authenticity of its descriptions will resonate with anyone who has navigated the complex world of online dating, particularly at a later stage in life.
To Venus and Back: One Man’s Quest to Rediscover Love is a memoir that speaks volumes about resilience, the enduring need for human connection, and the courage to embrace love again after loss. I recommend this book to anyone who has experienced significant loss or is navigating the intricacies of modern dating. Its heartfelt narrative and honest reflection make it a compelling read not just for those in similar situations but for anyone interested in understanding the impact of love and loss on the human spirit.
Pages: 376 | ASIN : B0BKQW6XM5
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Posted in Book Reviews, Four Stars
Tags: author, biography, book, book recommendations, book review, book reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, dating, Dating & Attraction, ebook, entertainment, goodreads, humor, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, love, Love & Romance, memoirs, nonfiction, nook, novel, One Man's Quest to Rediscover Love, read, reader, reading, relationships, sex and marriage, story, To Venus and Back, Turner Grant, women, writer, writing
Do Not Settle
Posted by Literary_Titan

The Virtuous Vagina – How To Leave Lust In The Dust & Find Clarity Through Chastity shares with readers the importance of focusing on self-love and self-worth over finding the perfect partner in life by sharing your personal exsperances and your journey to self-empowerment. Why was this an important book for you to write?
This was an important book for me to write because I see so many women desperate to find a meaningful relationship and settling for the wrong guys.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
It’s so vital that we take good care of ourselves spiritually, mentally & physically. I want to remind women to prioritize these aspects of living. As women we often put everyone & everything before ourselves.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
At a young age, I made a decision that almost cost me my life. The poem that I wrote explains all that I went through, and because it is so personal, I wasn’t sure about including it in the book. In the end, I thought it was too perfect of an ending not to include it. None of my reviewers have commented on it, and I’ve been wondering if the message is getting through; I hope so.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
I want women to see the necessity of building oneself. Tapping into our creative abilities, our intellect & our spirituality can build an incredible personal foundation of happiness. Society has taught us to believe that we will meet a knight in shining armor, but even if we do, a princess still has to bring something to the table. So why not set a beautiful table and enjoy the bounty whether the prince shows up or not!
Beginning in the summer and ending by New Year’s, join Katie season after season as she navigates life as a New York entrepreuneur, full time employeee and a woman vetting the advances of these men. Grounded in her spirituality, Katie provides detailed insight to the significance of not letting our egos guide our decision making, but instead paying keen attention to the reasons why someone may not be the right partner. She gives her readers real life experiences in New York City, the need to take the high road when working with dysfunctional colleagues, and pointing out the need to truly understand and pour into ourselves as women to achieve what we desire out of life. This memoir encourages women not to wait for Mr. Right to fullfill our dreams, but to be Miss Right whether he shows up or not!
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Posted in Interviews
Tags: author, biography, book, book recommendations, book review, book reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, ebook, goodreads, happiness, indie author, interpersonal relations, Katie Slade, kindle, kobo, literature, Love & Romance, marriage, memoir, nonfiction, nook, novel, Parenting & Relationships, read, reader, reading, story, The Virtuous Vagina - How To Leave Lust In The Dust & Find Clarity Through Chastity, true story, writer, writing
The Virtuous Vagina – How To Leave Lust In The Dust & Find Clarity Through Chastity
Posted by Literary Titan

In Katie Slade’s candid memoir The Virtuous Vagina, Slade shares her transformative journey from being dismissed from a 15-year career to bravely venturing into entrepreneurship. The story delves into the intricacies of her transition from a stable 9-to-5 job to the unpredictable realm of building her own business, notably through the development of a mobile app. Throughout the book, readers are privy to Slade’s personal evolution, marked by various encounters that shape her perspective on life, love, and self-worth.
The narrative touches on contemporary social dynamics, particularly regarding attitudes towards sex and relationships. The author contrasts the present-day openness around sexuality with past conservatism, highlighting a shift towards more liberal attitudes. Slade’s story becomes a conduit for discussing the challenges women face in modern dating landscapes, including navigating toxic relationships and societal pressures.
Slade shares her struggles with men who range from a detrimental ex-boyfriend to those with purely physical intentions, emphasizing the importance of self-respect and caution in romantic pursuits. A central theme of the book is the encouragement of chastity and self-empowerment for women. The author’s experiences serve as a mirror to the often tumultuous and demanding nature of contemporary dating, where encounters with narcissistic or manipulative partners are not uncommon. The narrative advocates for women to recognize their worth, resist being objectified, and cultivate strong personal and spiritual foundations. Slade emphasizes the significance of pursuing personal and professional success and seeking partners aligned with one’s values and beliefs. I found myself drawn to the story of an ambitious woman navigating these complex societal norms. Slade’s journey is not only about her entrepreneurial aspirations but also her stance against the diminishing regard for values like chastity and fidelity in today’s society.
The Virtuous Vagina – How To Leave Lust In The Dust & Find Clarity Through Chastity balances serious themes with moments of romance and humor, creating a multifaceted reading experience. Discovering that this book is part of a series was a pleasant surprise, and I am eager to continue following Katie Slade’s journey in subsequent installments. The narrative offers a thought-provoking reflection on modern social mores, corporate culture, and the pursuit of personal authenticity.
Pages: 206 | ASIN : B0CQTJLZFZ
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Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, biography, book, book recommendations, book review, book reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, ebook, goodreads, happiness, indie author, interpersonal relations, Katie Slade, kindle, kobo, literature, Love & Romance, marriage, memoir, nonfiction, nook, novel, Parenting & Relationships, read, reader, reading, story, The Virtuous Vagina - How To Leave Lust In The Dust & Find Clarity Through Chastity, true story, writer, writing
It’s Not About Love: (at least not the way you think)
Posted by Literary Titan

It’s Not About Love is a compelling self-help memoir penned by Jamie Murray, which delves into the complex topic of infidelity. The author takes the reader on a transformative journey, explaining that betrayal is not a result of insufficient love for one’s partner but rather a reflection of the unfaithful individual’s lack of self-love. Consequently, the act of betrayal is not the fault of the betrayed. This insightful book provides a fresh perspective on disloyalty, empowering readers to understand that their self-worth is independent of the actions of others.
The essence of It’s Not About Love lies in its potent and unique approach to addressing infidelity. As Jamie Murray candidly shares her personal experiences with betrayal, readers cannot help but forge a deep connection with her narrative. This comprehensive guide serves as a powerful reminder that betrayal is unrelated to love, absolving the betrayed of any blame.
Murray’s writing style is both authoritative and wry, and her book is remarkably impactful as it encourages readers to view unfaithfulness from an entirely new angle. By recognizing one’s lack of culpability in such situations, readers are guided towards a more focused and healthy life. The author emphasizes the importance of self-care and discourages allowing a partner’s actions to have a detrimental effect on one’s well-being. Murray’s firsthand experience with betrayal lends her a unique understanding of the challenges one may face in the aftermath.
This book casts a light on a subject that is often experienced in silence and isolation, and Jamie Murray’s courageous honesty in sharing her most vulnerable emotions is nothing short of admirable. Despite the arduous journey, her witty writing instills a sense of hope that brighter days lie ahead. It’s Not About Love provides an exceptional portrayal of the intricate relationship between infidelity and love.
Pages: 182 | ASIN : B0BTZ98H6W
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Posted in Book Reviews, Five Stars
Tags: author, biography, book, book recommendations, book review, book reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, divorce, ebook, goodreads, indie author, It's Not About Love: (at least not the way you think), Jamie Murray, kindle, kobo, literature, Love & Romance, memoir, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, self help, story, true story, writer, writing








