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You Find Out Who Your True Friends Are
The Covid Kid follows a young adult in his first year of college who has all his plans turned upside down with the emergence of COVID. What made you write a story about this topic?
The pandemic had such an overwhelming influence on us all. I simply could not ignore the impact on my upbeat protagonist, who always seems to come out okay in the end but never takes the straightforward path. Placing the most important person in his life at risk with COVID, under circumstances that might have been attributable to him, created suspense and concern for my readers.
Marshall’s plans for his first year of college change dramatically, and he has to adapt to many changes. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Boiled all the way down, it is a critical part of the maturation process from childhood to adult. Thankfully, most kids ease into adulthood without facing major trauma on the way, but they will have to deal with it at some point in their lives.
Marshall lived an admirable life with a sincere concern for others. I wanted to show that even the very best have problems, but his faith and perseverance won out in the end.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The pandemic was very serious business and should not be taken lightly, as it was by many young people. Marshall lost friends close to him and realized COVID must be dealt with seriously. Financial pressure can turn almost anyone to compromise their ideals and sworn allegiances, even a Hippocratic oath. When adversity rears its ugly head, you find out who your true friends really are.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My next book in the Marshall Morris series is “The Battle of Sam Jacinto”. (Yes, “Sam”) Marshall aligns himself with a group of old vets who rally with slingshots and baseball bats at the planned destruction of a Vietnam era local hero statue for a shopping center. In the process he forgets the proliferation of slavery advocated by many of the monuments and impact on his girlfriend African American Mallory. The one after that with a working title of “Hugs and Drugs” is about half written. Hopefully out in time for Christmas.
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The devastating loss of senior citizen war veteran buddies who survived combat bullets, but not this bug, leads him to become grimly serious about the pandemic, and he rails against young people who refuse to take precautions. His worst fears are realized when his precious mother is struck down by the dread disease, which he is certain he gave to her.
Though she worsens in an ICU he is unable to visit. He tries to keep busy working at a struggling real estate company. The owner, desperate for cash, becomes the middleman. in a bizarre international scheme to inject a bogus miracle cure into COVID patients at a local hospital. Marshall is shocked to learn the surely fatal drug will be given to his mother. He must get to her ICU before it is too late. The hospital’s COVID ward is a fortress. Can he get to her in time?
It Leaves The Reader Thinking
Deadly Attraction follows a woman who’s kidnapped by an emotionally hard man that slowly falls for her. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
This story actually came from a dream. The character development as far as Ace was my favorite part of the story. It leaves the reader thinking, nothing is ever as it seems and people can be so much more than what they were born into.
Reyna and Ace are intriguing and I enjoyed following their relationship. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
My mother would tell you, I put a lot of myself into Reyna’s character. I wanted that almost love at first sight aspect with their relationship, yet they approach with some caution. It does hit them hard and I personally have experienced a fast love like they experience in the book. It is all consuming and devastating when lost.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I really wanted them to have conflict in their emotions but not too much. Both never really believed in true love so it is nice to see them come together quick and realize this is what was missing in my life and I am willing to do whatever it takes to keep it. I wanted to show thought into why they were feeling the way they did but really not being able to explain it other than, it being kismet.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My next novel will hopefully be the second book in the Legacy Series. But I do have others in the works as well. It will be a race to the finish to see which story speaks to me the most in the coming months. Information should be updated on my website soon.
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Ace doesn’t do emotions. Brought up in a world of guns, violence, and bloodshed. He has seen every horror the world has to offer. Reyna is just another job to him…until she’s not.
Reyna says it’s kismet, but Ace doesn’t believe in fate. He must stop himself from falling for her, because he’s afraid that loving her will be the death of them both.
The Covid Kid: Another Marshall Morris Adventure
Robert John DeLuca’s The Covid Kid follows the misadventures of Marshall Morris, who we encounter as a high school student embarking on his first year at college. Having won an enviable football scholarship, Marshall expects his college experience to be full of sport and socializing — yet the encroaching presence of an unfamiliar virus threatens everything. As fear and tensions surrounding the virus continue to build, Marshall must decide what sacrifices he is willing to make for the good of his friends and the wider community. In the face of worldwide tragedy and conflicting opinions, the value of friendship is made clearer than ever before — something that the carefree Marshall must learn the hard way.
With its warm and humorous cast of teenagers, alongside ambitious antagonist Tommy Kinder, The Covid Kid encourages its readers to laugh ruefully at the hijinks and efforts of its characters — efforts which frequently backfire. There is a vein of tragedy that runs alongside this comic adventure, however — set during the rise of Covid-19, this story does well at balancing fun action with thoughtful commentary.
While I enjoyed the story, I felt that there were moments when we’re given a lot of exposition, and are told things about characters rather than shown. Otherwise, Marshall is a likable character that readers will enjoy following and the plot is compelling. The dialogue is straightforward and and delivers facts in a reporter-style of speech that serves an educational purpose, as characters’ fearful discussion of the impact of the virus marks a particular point in human history.
The Covid Kid successfully explores the effects of Covid-19 on society, particularly the younger generation. This is a compelling medical thriller that is as enlightening as it is entertaining.
Pages: 284 | ASIN: B09XWFMPR3
Deadly Attraction
Reyna and Lex head out on a romantic getaway to celebrate their anniversary when the unexpected happens. Their romantic getaway turns into a nightmare when Reyna is kidnapped. Luke tries everything to find his soon to-be wife. Held captive by a man named Ace, Reyna realizes that Ace, who doesn’t show any emotions or care for others, begins showing affection for her. Ace knows he cannot make a mistake and fall for Reyna or else that will be the death of them both.
Deadly Attraction, by Ashlee Lynn, is a thrilling romance novel that dramatically changes the fate of three people. This breathtaking shift is what kept me coming back to this story. The book sends these characters on an impassioned journey that weaves in and out of love and pain.
Reyna’s character first comes off as immature and oblivious, but I liked seeing her in different situations that challenged her, especially when it comes to Ace’s character. Ace is the tough guy who is soft on the inside and I liked watching his character grow as he began to have feelings for Reyna. His evolution as a character is an emotional aspect to the story that I really enjoyed. This attraction ups the stakes and puts both of their lives in danger, which adds tension and drama to the plot. The internal conflict that Reyna has about her relationship with Lex is intriguing and I wanted to know more. Especially since Lex is on a different page in their relationship and planning for their future together.
The plot alone makes this a romance novel that you cannot put down. The intimate scenes are an immersive experience that is filled with passion and excitement. The plot and characters take center stage in this story, so if you like character driven novels then this is a book you’ll devour. The writing reminded me of the Fear Street novels and the way in which those stories expertly use action and drama to keep readers engaged.
Deadly Attraction is a scintillating read that will appeal to readers who enjoy mystery and intrigue in their romance novels. Reading about the thrill of loving someone who you shouldn’t and fighting for it will make this book hard to put down.
Pages: 196 | ASIN: B0B33PTX8B
Paradise 69
When Scarlett De Santis and her friends planned an exciting trip as a celebration for finishing school, they didn’t know all they would have to go through. Scarlett, Vittoria, Adrianna and Giuliana are only eighteen, but they’re all looking for some reckless partying and to wildly enjoy themselves. They believe they are ready to experiment with their sexualities and can’t wait to meet new foreign men that will awaken their deepest fantasies. As they meet a bunch of mysterious rich and powerful men that are dying to hang out with them they can’t believe their luck, but soon they realize that not everything is as it seems.
This steamy romance novel grips readers from the start, as they wonder what it is that these girls are going to end up discovering on their trip. They are all chaotic, except perhaps Scarlett, who seems to be a bit more innocent. This characteristic will lead our main characters toward dangerous situations, as they desperately look forward to catching the gaze of hot men.
The location of the trip is the Tahiti Island. A paradise where any girl’s wild fantasies can materialize. However, the tone of the story soon becomes darker as more serious themes are dealt with such as sexual abuse and exploitation. The story takes some unexpected twists that were intriguing and kept me engaged.
The characters were charmed by everything going on around them and were not afraid to jump straight into risky situations, controlled at all times by lust and a deep wish to experiment with new things as they stepped into adulthood. The naivety of teen girls is illustrated throughout the entire story, bringing to light the always present predator that hides in the shadows awaiting his next victim.
While the characters are beguiling, I was left wanting to know more about their motivations. Some of the girls didn’t seem to make a distinction between what is harmless fun and what is abuse and exploitation. By the end, the line is blurred and the girls, possessed by lust, can’t wait for their new adventure. Will they fully enjoy their trip as their wildest fantasies come true, or will they have to come to terms with the harsh realities of the exploitative nature of things?
This is a thought-provoking novel with poignant themes and an alluring plot. The author plays with sexual fantasies and exploitation, forcing readers to wonder what happens when some things go too far. Paradise 69 by Ed Silva is a captivating novel that will quickly be devoured by romance readers looking for an intense and carnal story.
Pages: 289 | ASIN: B0B3S9R1NT
Innocence Derailed
Innocence Derailed, by Jane Catherine Rozek, is an inspirational book that turns the mundane events Kate experiences into a deep encounter each and every time. In today’s world, where everybody prefers the comfort and safety of one’s home, her story goes to show that there are people who opt to surround themselves with the outside world, specifically nature and all its beauty, and find out that there is a higher being within the smallest things one sees daily.
The author has written the book in a way that makes it feel personal even to its readers. The first pages makes the story seem like a romantic novel, but when the relationship ends, readers will see that there is more to this story than meets the eye. It motivates its audience to think about philosophical queries and reflect on their own answers. It also raises questions about rights, politics, and religion that are often silenced, not just during the 1970’s, but still today. Lastly and surprisingly, it also promotes the importance of taking breaks, may it be through the means of traveling, surrounding oneself with new people, or having a single day to yourself. You never know where your decisions will take you, and that is the fun of it all. In Kate’s case, her entire journey only brought her to a new one, only this time, she is now an enlightened woman; more prepared to take on what her next story holds.
Innocence Derailed is an emotionally-resonant coming of age novel that provides readers with a compelling exploration of a relatable and fascinating character. I would recommend this to young adults, because I personally share the struggle of not knowing where I am supposed to be in this age. The fact that the story is also based on true events will serve as a great inspiration for its readers, for it is a positive reminder that one’s path can progress with the will of God.
Pages: 315 | ASIN: B0B2D6KW88
I Died In The Early 1990s
God of Nothing follows the daughter of God and Satan who after being murdered awakens and discovers the truth about herself and her family. What was the inspiration for the setup to your story?
I died in the early 1990s and for sure, God is a woman…female anyway. Not human. That is when I started to consider what if everything we believe is wrong? Then the story took on a life of it’s own.
Aja is murdered at the age of 17 and now is faced with understanding who she really is. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
I wanted Aja to be a regular kind of teenager but considering her parentage, and who she really is, that regular life is not for her. Still, she has good values, morals, work ethic, and will do whatever she has to. Sometimes, because of her age and power, the things she does are not nice. It doesn’t make her evil or even bad, it makes her a teenager who sometimes makes poor choices.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
What difference does it matter what a person looks like on the outside…the gift is on the inside. This came about when my wife and I were watching Deep Space Nine and I told her, I thought some of the Cardassian women were kind of hot. After she got done laughing she said, “I can imagine how people on Earth would react to you dating a Cardassian.” She is right, most humans would freak out. I don’t under that. Why is it okay to love this person, but not that one. If there is a thinking, intelligent, adult mind in two radically different bodies, and they love each other, be it Titan, Dragon, Bool, Vampire, or Demon…I don’t have any issue or problems with those relationships. I don’t think it is any of my business to tell anyone who they can love and who they can’t. If someone was dating a rock person they’d be welcome in my house. Everyone in my book either already has, or will find their one person to love forever. These relationships are almost always with people radically different from each other…Dragon & Bool, Dragon and Demon, God and Devil, Human and alien (Ebezz). I see nothing wrong with any of that.
I also wanted loyalty…not the kind demanded by tyrants and dictators, the type of loyalty that comes only from forging a close, trusting relationship with another person.
And I wanted to provide answers to all the various immortal races and how they might have come about along.
I also wanted to portray alien cultures different from Earth. If we ever do get to space and find other cultures, I feel certain they won’t be anything like us. Even if they look like us, everything about them will be different.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I finished and published a 2 hour novella titled, FAITH last Feb. I am currently working on the second book in the series, God of Everything. I’d like it done and published around Feb 2023 but it is coming along slow. Difficulty in marketing, sales, and getting reviews drains my motivation to keep writing. Writing is hard hard work for me. I’d like to keep writing but so far, I have found no real benefit or reward to help motivate me to keep writing books.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook
God of Nothing is a stunning, epic fantasy. This imaginative coming-of-age series follows four generations of Gods, Devils, Dragons, Titans, Demons, Werewolves, Vampires, and Angels.
Mortals and Immortals collide in never-ending battles of love and hate across uncountable years and dozens of worlds.
God of Nothing starts the adventure. Murdered at seventeen by the Titan, Silver, God of Death, Aja wakes with her Dragon. Thrust into a bizarre world where enemies are friends, and friends are enemies, she learns the truth about her parents and herself.
Her mother is God, and her father is the Devil. Aja is the first person born, not created.
Enraged that Aja survived, Silver, God of Death, forces her to make choices to protect those she loves. Will Aja save the All or destroy it? If she survives, will she hate herself for what she’s done?
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God of Nothing has no graphic sex, but there are sexual situations, including some LGBTQ+. It also has instances of vulgar language, smoking, drugs, violence, and mentions rape. It is intended for people eighteen years or older.
The Mommy Clique
The Mommy Clique is an entertaining and unpredictable novel filled with gossip and betrayal that will keep readers on their toes. Beth comes back to her hometown after many years to take care of her mother. She is worried about coming back to town, and to make matters worse she is forced to face the mean girl clique of mothers on her street. She soon realizes that she has become the target of these women, and they are looking for some fun. We find out that their ‘perfect’ life in the suburbs is not as great as it looks on the outside.
This is a riveting character driven story and author Barbara Altamirano does a fantastic job of creating believable characters, even when they do some unbelievable things. Each character is different in their own way but they all have one thing in common, they are mean girls and no one can be better than them.
Each chapter in the story is told from a different perspective. This allows the reader to get an intimate look at their thoughts and feelings and truly understand them. Even if readers can’t relate to certain situations they’ll still find that the characters have surprising depth, even when they sometimes seem shallow.
The reader learns that some of the characters in the story are not as happy and perfect as they seem and are putting up a façade. Elise, who is also referred to as the queen bee, is a surprisingly complex character and she is one that I loved to hate. I think that is a testament to the author’s writing ability, as she is able to evoke such strong emotions from the reader. I was also surprised by Beth’s character because, when she is first introduced to the group, she is looked at as weak and as easy prey, but as the story progresses readers learn that she is not at all who we think she is.
This is an engrossing evolution of the high school mean girl story. But when I thought I knew where this story was going the author adds an unexpected twist and once it is revealed you will not be able to put the book down.
The Mommy Clique is a spunky urban drama that will captivate readers as they are drawn into the melodrama, the cattiness, and the backstabbing. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for a quick but compelling story.
Pages: 203 | ASIN: B088DJS6TT
LITERARY TITAN 