Blog Archives
Summer Sunshine
In the summer of 1959, a shy college student named Debby Detering embarks on a work-study program in Washington, eager yet anxious about making friends. She pushes herself out of her comfort zone by attending a church function, where she meets a man named Floyd. Their brief encounter fills her with excitement—she’s finally spoken to someone! What follows is a sweet summer romance filled with boat rides, zoo visits, and group dates packed into Floyd’s Volkswagen Beetle. But as the season ends, the looming question arises—what will happen when Debby returns to New England?
In an era when long-distance phone calls were a costly luxury, Debby and Floyd kept their love alive through handwritten letters, a testament to their patience and devotion. Despite the miles between them, they stayed connected, visiting whenever possible, and to the surprise of their parents, the summer romance endured. The couple married in 1960, and their love blossomed into a 60-year marriage. Their story, beautifully captured in this memoir, is told through heartfelt poetry, nostalgic stories, cherished photos, and meaningful Bible verses. This memoir radiates warmth and devotion. I loved how Debby and Floyd’s relationship centers around connection, education, spirituality, and shared experiences. The poems interspersed between the chapters are poignant and perfectly complement the themes of each section. Raw and genuine, every verse is steeped in emotion, making it easy to revisit them time and again. The inclusion of personal photos brought a smile to my face, and the author’s use of metaphors, like the image of a family as a tapestry woven in vibrant colors, added depth to the storytelling.
Though a quick read, I found myself drawn back to the poems, savoring their heartfelt simplicity more than once. Debby and Floyd’s journey of love, growth, and the life they built together serves as an inspiring example, especially for newly married couples. If you’re in the mood for a wholesome, uplifting love story, Summer Sunshine: Memoir and Poetry is a delightful and heartwarming choice.
Pages: 86 | ISBN : 1733942785
Dictatorship Versus Democracy
Till Marriage Do Us Part follows a woman struggling to keep her rocky marriage together while also wishing to pursue a relationship with a stranger from the internet. This is an intriguing setup to a novel that is high in social commentary. What was your moral goal when writing this novel and do you feel you’ve achieved it?
I’m not sure I had a moral goal, but I certainly set out to challenge traditional morals and long-held beliefs about the one-love-til-death-do-us-part ideology. From the feedback I’ve had, I would say that I have achieved this goal.
Were the characters’ backstories something you always had or did they develop as you were writing?
The backstories for these characters developed as I was writing. My approach to writing is similar in that the plot, ending, and character development often changes and evolves as the story develops.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted to explore a number of interrelated themes, such as marriage, polyamory, and compersion (i.e. to view an individual as autonomous and celebrate their own unique path to fulfilment). By nature, a long-term union (like marriage) is demanding and punctuated with compromise. But at what personal cost? If the needs of the union are always placed above the needs of the individuals, then isn’t it more of a dictatorship than a democracy? This revolutionary idea of dictatorship versus democracy is the central theme of TMDUP.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have a few works in progress: Book One of a Thriller/Suspense series; and a Women’s Fiction novel. I will strive to have at least one ready next year. Readers can subscribe to my newsletter to receive updates.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Website | Amazon
At Ghost Gum Winery in Australia, married couple Aden and Bronte are dealt a cruel hand of fate when a financial audit forces them into foreclosure. Starting afresh in a seaside suburb of Brisbane, their marriage rapidly deteriorates as Aden mourns his dream life and Bronte seizes an opportunity to pursue the writing dream she buried when she became a winemaker’s wife.
In America, Luther is an indie author who is unhappily married to his second wife. With his bohemian mother encouraging him from the sidelines to keep searching for his ideal, but impossible, woman, he searches Twitter hashtags and discovers Bronte’s profile. Instantly smitten, he ghost follows her until he can orchestrate the perfect meet.
When Aden’s new job takes him to Dubai for three months, and the Twitterverse unites Bronte and Luther, Bronte soon finds herself in a predicament in which she must choose between her husband and a man she’s never met.
Problem is, she wants them both.
Determined to explore a relationship with Luther and keep her family unit intact, Bronte makes it her mission to redefine her conventional marriage in order to keep both relationships alive.
But these three hearts cannot foresee where each of their romantic lives will lead when Bronte’s burgeoning writing career takes her to Hollywood.
Growing up, Patty
Growing Up, Patty, by Patty Beecham, is one of the most candid and heartfelt memoirs I’ve encountered in a long time, and I found myself captivated by every page. From her earliest school days, Patty felt out of place—longing to fit in yet always sensing she was different. Her twenties were a turbulent time, marked by a troubled marriage, unemployment, and no stable home. Despite these challenges, Patty’s resilience shines through as she gradually pieces together the life she wanted, proving her unwavering dedication to creating her own path.
Throughout the memoir, readers are taken on a vivid journey through her friendships, romantic relationships, family struggles, career transitions, and a deep passion for adventure. Her experiences with failed relationships are laid bare, and one revelation—that she had once been stalked—left me genuinely surprised. Eventually, she meets Chris, the love of her life, and together they build a family. The challenges of motherhood were not easy for Patty, but with Chris’s steadfast support, she overcame the hardships. Her career, which began in advertising, later evolved into a successful role as a radio presenter. I admired her boldness in starting fresh, never hesitating to reinvent herself. Her courage and determination left a lasting impression.
One of the qualities that stood out most about Patty is her incredible resourcefulness. I recall her initiative in setting up one of the first school websites on the Internet, a moment that filled me with pride for her accomplishments. The way she navigated the joys and pains of motherhood, including heartbreaking miscarriages, was deeply moving. The strain her marriage endured due to her husband’s demanding job underscores the broader theme of how work can ripple through every part of a person’s life, affecting health, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Amid life’s toughest challenges, Patty’s humor became her shield, allowing her to find light even in dark moments. Her stories brim with wit and wisdom, and I found myself relating to many of her experiences—whether it was the quest for purpose, the restless ambitions of young adulthood, or the bravery it takes to pivot careers when life demands it. Growing Up, Patty is not just a memoir; it’s an honest reflection on the highs and lows of life, filled with moments of vulnerability, strength, and humor. It’s a deeply personal narrative, and I loved every moment of it.
Pages: 350 | ISBN : 978-0645247855
The Unexpected Guests
The Unexpected Guests, by Ruth F. Stevens, dives into the tangled web of midlife relationships, family dynamics, and the journey of self-discovery. At the center of this contemporary fiction is Margaret, a recently divorced woman trying to piece her life back together. She rekindles a complicated connection with Charlie, a successful but emotionally guarded author. The story intricately weaves together the lives of various characters, each with their own struggles and secrets. Margaret’s friend, Sunny, faces her own battles with love and career, while Gwendolyn, Margaret’s mother, harbors a past shrouded in mystery. Set against the vibrant backdrop of South Bay in Los Angeles, the narrative delves into love, second chances, and the inevitable chaos that others bring into our lives. This book appeals to readers who crave character-driven tales infused with humor, heart, and a touch of drama.
Ruth Stevens’ The Unexpected Guests offers a warm, heartfelt reading experience. The story invites readers into the lives of seemingly ordinary characters grappling with life’s oddities. Their experiences resonate deeply, making the narrative feel intimate and personal. Certain characters stand out, their stories laced with tension yet softened by the tenderness in Stevens’ prose. This balance evokes empathy as they navigate old wounds and new opportunities. The writing flows effortlessly, accessible yet charming. The prose sparkles with wit and emotion, striking a balance between light-hearted moments and more reflective, poignant scenes. I do feel that the dialogue sometimes feels as if the characters are speaking past each other rather than engaging in genuine conversation. This detracts slightly from the otherwise engaging narrative.
Each character, even the secondary ones like Sunny and Gwendolyn, is thoughtfully crafted. They bring their unique dilemmas to the story, enriching the main narrative in meaningful ways. Stevens excels in portraying relationships, whether romantic, familial, or platonic. The flaws in these characters make them more endearing, drawing readers deeper into their lives and struggles. The plot leans toward a slice-of-life approach, focusing on emotional depth rather than high-stakes drama. This style may resonate with those who enjoy introspective, character-focused stories. The pacing is steady, and these quieter scenes offer valuable space to reflect on the characters, enhancing understanding and connection.
The Unexpected Guests explores love, second chances, and the beautifully messy nature of human relationships. It’s a moving story for readers who appreciate well-drawn characters and narratives that feel both genuine and heartfelt.
Pages: 355 | ASIN : B0DFCS8BKN
Forks & Knives: A Marriage at the Crossroads of Addiction and Codependency
Mimi Wahlfeldt’s Forks and Knives: A Marriage at the Crossroads of Addiction and Codependency is a poignant and powerful fictional narrative rooted in real-life events. The novel offers an intimate glimpse into the turmoil of a marriage engulfed by the struggles of addiction, painting a vivid and heartrending picture of what it means to love and live in the shadow of alcoholism. The story centers on Kat Torrington, a woman who uncovers her husband Eric’s secret battle with alcoholism just as she prepares to welcome their first child. This discovery places Kat at a critical juncture—a decision point that many readers may find relatable: should she stay and fight for her marriage or walk away from it?
Wahlfeldt’s choice to tell the story through Kat’s first-person perspective is one of the novel’s most compelling elements. This narrative approach allows readers to experience the emotional depth of Kat’s journey firsthand. Her fears, hopes, and inner conflicts are laid bare, creating a raw and unfiltered portrayal of a life entwined with addiction. The narrative’s strength lies in its authenticity. Wahlfeldt does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of addiction and its ripple effects on relationships and families. The novel delves into the cyclical nature of denial, relapse, and recovery with a stark honesty that is both challenging and enlightening.
The metaphor of “forks and knives” serves as a powerful symbol throughout the novel, representing the difficult choices Kat faces and the often sharp, painful consequences of those decisions. For readers who have faced similar struggles, Forks and Knives offers a sense of validation and shared experience.
Wahlfeldt’s Forks & Knives goes beyond mere storytelling; it offers a form of closure to those who have questioned whether they gave their all in the most challenging moments of their lives. Whether you are familiar with the battles of addiction or simply seeking a compelling, emotionally resonant read, Forks and Knives is a novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page.
Pages: 293 | ASIN : B0CZ18RM29
Prioritize Self-love
In Love with My 5 Wives presents an unflinching memoir that navigates the tumultuous waters of a life marred by abuse and the challenging journey toward personal redemption. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Great question. This book was important for me to write because it sheds light on issues that many men may not even realize affect them on a subconscious level. I wanted to draw a parallel and connect the dots between child abuse, race, and mental illness.
Many men might carry the weight of past traumas without fully understanding how these experiences shape their behaviors and emotions. Child abuse, for example, often leaves deep scars that can influence every aspect of a man’s life. It’s crucial to acknowledge these impacts openly, so men can begin to heal and move forward.
Mental illness and race are also critical topics that need more attention, especially among men, who might feel pressure to appear strong and unaffected. By sharing my wife’s battle with psychosis and my own struggles with child abuse, race and mental illness, I aim to destigmatize these conversations and encourage men to seek help when needed.
In connecting these themes, I hope to provide a comprehensive view of how interconnected and complex these issues are. My goal is to inspire men to reflect on their own lives, recognize the impact of their experiences, and understand that the abuse they suffered doesn’t define their identity and healing is possible.
I appreciated the candid nature with which you told your story. What was the hardest thing for you to write about?
Another great question but I have to answer it in two parts:
First, it was incredibly challenging for me to revisit the abuse and torture I endured during my childhood. Despite the years that have passed and the numerous lectures I’ve given, it remains a difficult topic to discuss and, in this case, write about. Writing about my childhood abuse forced me to confront painful memories that I had long tried to put behind me. Each word I wrote felt like peeling back layers of old wounds, which was emotionally exhausting. It was a process that required me to relive some of the darkest moments of my life, which was anything but easy.
Similarly, detailing my wife’s struggles with psychosis was heart-wrenching. Her auditory, visual, tactile and command hallucinations were vivid and terrifying, and they often left her, and me, feeling helpless and lost. Writing about those times brought back a flood of emotions and memories. It was a sobering reminder of the fragile line between health and illness, and the impact it had on our lives was profound.
The process of sharing these topics was therapeutic in many ways, but it also reopened old wounds. There were many nights when I found myself overwhelmed with emotion, unable to sleep because the memories were so vivid. Despite the difficulty, I knew that sharing my story was important. It was my way of reaching out to others who might be going through similar experiences, offering them a sense of hope and understanding.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One of the main ideas I wanted to convey was the idea that we are never too old to change. Life often throws challenges our way, and sometimes those challenges come in the form of deep wounds from past childhood experiences. It’s crucial to recognize that healing is always possible, no matter our age or the length of time we’ve carried our burdens.
Another important idea I wanted to share is that past does not define us; rather, it shapes us and contributes to our unique strengths. Each individual who has endured any form of abuse often underestimates their own resilience. The very fact that we’ve survived and continued to move forward demonstrates our profound inner strength.
The healing journey is personal and different for everyone, but it’s important to remember that it’s never too late to start. Every step taken towards healing is a testament to our courage and our capacity for growth.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your story?
One thing I hope readers take away from my story is that love, particularly self-love, is an incredibly transformative force that has the power to heal wounds from the past. When we cultivate self-love, we begin a journey that allows us to address and mend the emotional scars we carry.
Self-love involves recognizing our worth and treating ourselves with kindness and compassion. This practice enables us to forgive ourselves for past mistakes and allows us to move forward with a sense of peace and empowerment. By embracing self-love, we create a safe space within ourselves where healing can take place.
Ultimately, when we love ourselves, we set a powerful example for others. By prioritizing self-love, we unlock the ability to overcome past hurts, help mend broken relationships, and face the future with confidence and hope.
Author Links: GoodReads
Within the confines of his fractured family, James endured a nightmarish gauntlet of verbal, mental, physical, and emotional abuse, inflicted upon him by two stepfathers and his own mother. But this is more than just a tale of suffering; it’s a story of resilience and transformation. James battles the torment, turmoil, and pitfalls of his tumultuous childhood, determined to rise above his past, embrace his own identity, and become a man capable of love and compassion.
‘In Love with My 5 Wives’ takes us on a 33-year odyssey through James’ life, a journey that carries him from the role of victim to that of the abuser and ultimately transforms him into a man who discovers the power of love and redemption. In the twilight of a 28-year relationship, James’s life takes an unexpected turn as he becomes the savior of the woman he loves, breaking free from the cycle of abuse to become a better man, husband, and human being.
In Love with MY 5 Wives
In Love with My 5 Wives by James Bass presents an unflinching memoir that navigates the tumultuous waters of a life marred by abuse and the challenging journey toward personal redemption. James, a man of mixed racial heritage with an African-American father and a Mexican-American mother, details his lifelong struggle to carve out a sense of identity against a backdrop of enduring hardship. From the adversities of his early childhood to the complexities of his adult relationships, Bass’s narrative is a raw and revealing exploration of the cyclical nature of trauma—hurt people, indeed, often hurt others.
Bass’s account is as much a confessional as it is an examination of a life filled with poignant and painful moments. The narrative draws parallels to the novel “Push” by Sapphire, where, like its protagonist, Bass emerges both as a figure of resilience and as deeply flawed. His story offers a vivid testament to the unforgettable impact of one’s environment on personal development. Despite the often harrowing details of his experiences, Bass provides the reader with a narrative infused with moments of genuine hope and transformation.
This book challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the consequences of abuse while also affirming the profound capacity for human resilience. Bass’s journey toward healing and self-improvement underscores a powerful message: one’s past does not have to define the future. Bass exemplifies the potential for renewal and growth through his efforts to transcend his circumstances and embrace the possibility of love and connection. In Love with My 5 Wives is not just Bass’s story—it is a broader call to reflect on our own capacities to overcome and evolve, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the dynamics of personal change and redemption.
Pages : 165 | ASIN : B0BLJR84JF
The Victorious Vagina – How To Beat A Player At His Game & Win At Self Love
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
