Year: 2015

A Mother’s Day Special Guest Author Spotlight! I Welcome Author, Rusty Blackwood to ‘Lyon Book Promotions.’

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Featured Guest, New Book & Author Press Release , , , , , , , ,

Happy Mother’s Day Friends and Readers!

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Miss Carson Doan of C.E. Doan Photography.


Today I welcome Author, Rusty Blackwood to my book blog. We have been friends for quite sometime now. She happened to share some special news with me to share with all of you, my fabulous readers! But before we get to the good news, let me share a wee bit more about my good friend Rusty . . . .

About The Author:
Top ranking romantic fiction author Rusty Blackwood believes the flair for fantasy is anything the mind wishes it to be, and she is a master at this. Within her expressive mind is found an endless array of romance, passion, textures and colors to sweep the reader to exotic, faraway places where anything is possible, proving that her words really do leave you breathless.

Canadian born Blackwood grew up on her paternal grandfather’s farm in south-western Ontario, Canada, where she developed her love of writing while still in grade school, entering numerous competitions and writing exhibitions throughout her area, and attributes her love of writing to her late father James, and to Gladys Carroll, her elementary teacher. Although unprofessionally trained in the field, Rusty has always had an affinity for the written word, a gift to express it, and has demonstrated this talent many times since becoming a serious writer in 2001.

She has written an eclectic array of contemporary and traditional poetry, publishing her first collection in October of 2009 entitled, “Feelings: A Rhythmic Journey in Thought,” which was later re-released in a second collection with additional content in 2011 under the title, “Impressions: A Poetic Rhythm in Emotion”. Feelings was followed in April of 2010 by a collection of assorted short stories for children, as well as the young at heart, entitled, “Young Minds,”  which was later re-released as a second collection with additional content in 2012 under the title, “Through the Eyes of Innocence.”  In March of  2012 Rusty released the short-story comedy, “The Misadventures of Derwood Tugbottom.” 

Following a previously hard-fought, misguided, and misleading publishing road into the competitive world of main-stream fiction with her first two-part romance/drama, ‘Passion in Paris’– Connections to the Past and Directions of the Heart respectively – Rusty was finally given the chance to accomplish what she had originally set out to do, and this exciting reprieve can be found within the pages of her new heart-touching romance/drama, “Passions In Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary,”  now available at the online bookstores of Create Space, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon worldwide. This beautiful romance novel is expected to be followed by the romance/drama, ’Willow’s Walk.’

The 5’1″(154.94 cm) spunky redhead is often asked how much of herself is found in her heroines, and she has been noted to say a fair amount, adding that most writer’s inspiration comes from many different aspects of life experience and reaping from them all that one can to use to one’s best advantage, so in that respect she would have to say that many sides, aspects, and flavors of her heroines derive from her own personality and life.

Rusty has always loved the Arts in their many unique forms and this is demonstrated in the two Interior Decorating and Design diplomas she holds, as well as her many years spent on the south-western Ontario stage performing with her family’s country music band, The Midnight Ramblers, and the country rock – blues band, MIRAGE  respectively as an accomplished vocalist, bassist, and rhythm guitarist.

Rusty firmly believes in going after what she wants, doing whatever is required to make it happen, and turning a deaf ear to anyone who says it cannot be done. She has faced many challenges throughout her life, emerging more determined with each, but make no mistake about her methods, for she is a firm believer in Karma and the adage that whatever you put out in life revisits you, so be sure your intentions are proper.

Ms. Blackwood now resides in the cultural city of St. Catharine’s, Ontario and when not at her keyboard, enjoys art, music, nature, gardening, and spending quality time with family, friends, and her loyal cat, Tipper.
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Now here is her most current book titled; “PASSIONS In Paris, Revelations of a Lost Diary.” It has gotten Rave Reviews!
And this isn’t her first rodeo either. She has several wonderful published books released. Here is a little about “Passions In Paris” . . .
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About The Book:

Product Details

Paris, one the most romantic places in the world sets the scene for one of the best romance novels to come along in ages. A romance novel, filled with creative fiction, engrossed with passion, lust and lovers who cannot get enough of one another. In the tradition of Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula‘ and ‘What Dreams May Come‘, the story spans lifetimes This is what awaits you within the pages of ‘Passions in Paris: Revelations Of A Lost Diary’, one of the best romance novels to come along in years.

A writers dream, a reader’s paradise, it’s creative fiction executed fully. Paris, the bewitching City of Light sets the scene for this passionate romance novel, peppered with drama, intrigue, deception, adultery and jealousy alike, this fictional romance which centers on star-crossed lovers Joy Wychmere and Cullen Malone, is certain to touch your soul and leave you desiring more. If a good book is your goal, you will not be disappointed with this exceptional romance novel by Rusty Blackwood.

Buy this book at Createspace

Buy this book at Amazon

Buy this book at Barnes and Noble

Buy this book at Smashwords
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Book Reviews:

“Exciting Tale”
I liked the book quite a lot.
And the title is certainly well-chosen, because it is a story about passionate people fighting for their love. The book is dramatic, eventful and exciting!”
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“This dramatic love story is a page turner and was cause for a couple very late nights of reading before I was delivered to the end of the tale!”
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5 stars
 “A long kindled love between two different worlds that sets ablaze forbidden emotions on a roller coaster ride of endless desire — Miss Blackwood has a rare talent to bring this and more into the minds and hearts of those who have had the privilege to be transported into her wonderful world of story telling.”
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5 stars
 “Fascinating book of a love story that seemed to be written with me in mind.”
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Now my readers know I only ask 2 questions of my guest authors, and for this prolific writer of romance, her is a little about her writing process, and as a self published princess.
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1.)  How did you know you wanted to become a writer, author, and editor?

I have loved to write since childhood. I always enjoyed English class, both English Comp, and English Lit, but my greatest enjoyment came from English Composition. It was there I could let my imagination soar and take me to wonderful places where anything was possible. I can remember numerous requirements in class with regard to writing a short essay, full length compositions, critiquing one’s work, understanding the reason behind another writer’s choice, that sort of thing, whatever the teacher’s requirement in English was on any particular day, and I well remember my excitement entering whatever piece I’d written into county fair competitions, assorted literature gatherings, and trying my best to hold my own among the imaginative pieces awaiting the judge’s final word. So many talented young writers in my area, and I was just happy to be among them and have my work before those who not only loved to read, but whose teachings and critique meant so much in helping each of us to improve. It all helped to build a better basis for each written piece that was to follow.

As strange as it sounds, writing wasn’t what I set out to do as a career, therefore I was never professionally trained in the field, but because of my affinity for the subject, I developed a keen sense of manipulating written words where I could express my feelings in a much better way than expressing them verbally. I would write assorted short stories, compose poetry, keep a diary, that sort of thing, but in 2001 I decided to try my hand at writing a novel. This decision stayed with me over the course of ten years which resulted in the writing of the original two-part Passion in Paris.

I self-published the first part, Passion in Paris: Connections to the Past in 2010, the second, Passion in Paris: Directions of the Heart in 2011, but I was never satisfied with the final product or the self publishing company that I had chosen to publish it,  so I terminated my contract and pulled my work. In 2012, after finding a new publishing outlet, I had the opportunity to totally redo the story in one book, which was the way I had originally intended it to be done in the first place. The finished novel, Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, which I am extremely proud of, was released  in the summer of 2013. With regard to publishing any of my work, I decided at the beginning to take the self publishing route because I wanted to maintain direction of my work, as well as the Rights to it, and not have to sign either away in order to obtain a publishing contract with a Standard House.

It’s a hard road; then again any road in this field can be difficult regardless of the route chosen because nothing is certain, you just have to believe in yourself, your ability, and be sure you research every aspect of it as well as you can. When it comes to editing, I do tend to feel one improves in this area with each written piece, and I have managed to acquire a fair understanding with regard to it, however I don’t consider myself an editor in any way. I do edit my work to a certain degree as I go, but I leave the main editing to the professionals.

2.)  What is the “Best Thing” you enjoy about being a writer & author?

I love the challenge of a blank page, and letting my thoughts and imagination pull me into it. I very much love creating characters that I can mold and give life to, insert them into a world that I have created for them, and watch them flourish within it. It becomes entirely my own world where I’m in charge — most of the time that is — as characters often have a way of taking over and demanding their own way, their own words, and their own actions.

This often directs a story down a far different road than you started out on. But it’s a great feeling to watch a story that has formed in your head come to life on a page that in turn becomes a complete book. As an author you hope it will bring enjoyment to the reader, hopefully as much as it brought you to write it. I can only speak for myself and what best works for me, but I basically write for myself and my enjoyment. I think a lot of writers do, because without the enjoyment that it primarily provides, the first page would never get written . . .
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So what more can I share about my wonderful friend Rusty? How about the ‘Fabulous News’ of a new book release very soon! YES! In just a few months Rusty Blackwood’s brand new book will release! And I have the pleasure of sharing it right here on ‘Lyon Book Promotions’!!

Her new book is titled; WILLOW’S WALK. Here is the book cover reveal, and about this soon to release book!
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Book Description:

The path each person walks is entirely their own. The pitfalls along that path, as well as the way in which they are dealt with are entirely up to the individual. Most use common sense, and are successful in their plight … But Willow Sutherland Crosby walks a far-different path, and with her own agenda … From the author of the riveting 4-star romantic fiction drama, ‘Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary,’ comes a gripping new tale, certain to hold you captive from the very first page.
Set in the beautiful city of Ottawa, Canada in 2003, this touching story centers on the life and times of a woman determined to prevail at all costs, regardless of what is set before her, the result of which is certain to leave the reader reeling in its wake. Abuse, deception, intrigue, and a never-ending quest for happiness and love. Will she find it, or will her blind determination finally take her down? This is what awaits the eye within the pages of this inspiring romance drama by romantic fiction author Rusty Blackwood.
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Now I don’t know about you, but I can not wait to get my hands on a copy! I want to thank my wonderful friend Author, Rusty Blackwood for allowing me to share in her exciting new up coming book release. And for the opportunity to share her with all of you, my fabulous followers and readers. Now here is where you can connect with Rusty, but {Ssssshhhhhh her real name is Carol}, so don’t tell anyone! LOL.

First, if you love to visit author blogs/websites? Than your going to love Rusty’s! http://www.rusty-blackwood.com/
While your there, make sure you check out her’ journal’ area. You can follow her on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads to right here:

https://twitter.com/rusty_blackwood/  ~ Twitter
https://www.facebook.com/writerrusty?ref=ts  ~ Facebook
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4067877.Rusty_Blackwood  ~ Goodreads

Wishing all mom’s a Fabulous and Beautiful Mother’s Day,
Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon & ‘Lyon Book Promotions’ . . .


I’m Featured On BookGoodies.Com! I present my Author Interview.

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Posts

Hello Readers, Friends, and Welcome New Visitors,

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My hubby Tom and I at Crater Lake National Park, So. Oregon

Living life in recovery and having mental illness can be a challenge at times to say the least. But I need to express, if it wasn’t for this handsome man in this photo next to me? I don’t think I would have made it!
I just needed to share that with all my friends & visitors here . . .

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Now to the fantastic news!  I have been featured on one of my favorite places to be. Book Goodies! Here is the link for all authors to get your own author interview too on BookGoodies.com And be a part of BookGoodies.net community as well!
http://bookgoodies.com

It is a great place for authors, and special place for readers. It’s a must for all authors to come add your books, have your own author interview, place all your book promotions, giveaways, and lower priced E-books all in one place.

So I am happy, honored, and excited to share my feature author interview with all of you! So, here we go!
Happy Reading Friends!
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“Interview With Author — Catherine Townsend-Lyon, Author & Recovery Advocate”

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About Catherine Townsend-Lyon, Author:
Catherine a TKG Publishing Best Selling Author and the Prolific writer of the book titled; “Addicted To Dimes” (Confessions of a liar and a Cheat). It is a powerful memoir of her life, and all she has endured, battled, and much to overcome. Her 8 years in recovery from addicted gambling and alcohol abuse proves anyone can recover, turn their lives around and have a beautiful life in recovery.

Catherine’s insightful journey of gambling addiction, living with mental illness and disorders, and a survivor of childhood sex abuse and trauma, parental & verbal abuse into adulthood, seemed to have created a ‘Perfect Storm’ for addiction later in life, and set the stage for addicted behaviors & habits, as she used to ‘escape’ her painful past. Today she is well-known and respected in the addiction & recovery online community, as she advocates to help educate, inform, and raise awareness of compulsive addicted gambling.

It is mainly what her first book is about. How one can turn to addiction when unhealthy underlying issues are not addressed in a proper manner. Her story is a haunting, dark, and sometimes hard to read journey of a woman clawing her way back to reclaiming her life back. Without polish or prose, Catherine gives the public an in-depth, insightful view of the dark side of gambling, and how she recovered. Her second and third books will release late 2015.

What inspires you to write?
What inspires me to write? Interesting question. Many reasons why I write, blog, and advocate is to be of recovery service to others. My book was purely a “spiritual intervention” as I didn’t set out to write a book or manuscript. I have always been a diary and journaling geek, but it came more important when I entered long-term recovery. I did however love to write poetry as a teenager, but then Life came calling. Today I write to share hope to others in recovery from this devastating disease called; Gambling Addiction!

My book however was inspired by, or what got me to write and see on paper, all the horrible things I’d done, been through, and almost lost my life twice from compulsive addicted gambling. I share in the beginning of my book, Addicted To Dimes, why I wrote my book. It was after I read a newspaper article of a woman who committed suicide in her Casino Hotel room. They rest? You’ll have to read my book for the, “rest of the story” . . . .

Tell us about your writing process.
How my first book became a book manuscript, thanks to a friend that is an editor of our local newspaper, and she needed a project for her finals in college. I just went and bought 5 notebooks of paper and starting writing about my life, and what I’d been through starting as a little girl. It just came pouring out of me for a whole year. So I guess I’m old fashioned in this day and age of computers. I didn’t even own a computer when I began to write all my words, instead I filled those 5 notebooks by writing what was in my heart and wrote by hand.

What advice would you give other writers?
I tell everyone when I’m asked this question, and the best advice I was given as a writer from my publisher at: The Kodel Empire Publishing Group (TKG) was, “write what you know, write with passion, and it takes many, many hours of book promoting to gain your readership!” . . . And boy was my publisher, Steve Laible right! Advice to other writers? Look over your publishing agreements/contracts carefully. If a publisher promises to help promote your book when it releases? Get It In Writing!

How did you decide how to publish your books?
Of course I mentioned above as to why I started writing. And how my book became a manuscript, thanks to my friend Julie Hall, at our local newspaper. But, she took it a step father, as she faxed the first 50 pages of the manuscript to a friend of hers who happened to be a local publisher here: http://kodelempire.com  He, (Steve Laible of TKG), called me and said my manuscript needs to be published to help others who are afflicted with addicted or problem gambling, living with mental/emotional health issues like myself, and would give many a voice who also endured childhood trauma and abuse as I did.

And that’s how my book; Addicted To Dimes came to be! I became a writer, and a first time published author on my 50th birthday!

What do you think about the future of book publishing?
I feel many authors are self-publishing their books on their own through many fantastic self-publishing platforms, it has changed the whole landscape of publishing. The big publishing firms are not publishing unknown authors any longer. Now a days, the big publishing firms won’t even look at a manuscript unless your already a NY Times best seller, a famous person, or even a well-known reality or sports star. Very sad indeed.

On the flip side to this, self-publishing has it’s good and bad points. Bad? It has flooded the book market, so it takes a lot of book promoting creativity to get your books noticed, especially when you’re a first timer. The Good? It gives many, many writers of all types, a fair chance to share their craft as writers to the reading mass’s. Yes, authors like, ‘E L James of Fifty Shades of Grey’ are a rare breed, an unknown going huge overnight, but a least we have that opportunity for our writing and books to be seen, read, and enjoyed by readers. Much of this comes from my business experience as a ‘Book Promoter’ myself.

What do you use?: Professional Editor, Professional Cover Designer, Professional Publisher

What genres do you write?: Non-Fiction, Recovery Writer, Memoir/Biography, Self-Help,

What formats are your books in?: Both eBook and Print

Website(s)
Catherine Townsend-Lyon, Author Home Page Link
Link To Catherine Townsend-Lyon, Author Page On Amazon
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So there is my Author Interview on Book Goodies. Yes, I did happen to see a few typo’s, but hey? well it shows no one person is perfect. I Thank Deborah at Book Goodies for the fabulous author interview.
And readers, make sure you go by for a visit and meet you’re next great book to read!
*Catherine*  :-)

Lyon Book Promotions Welcomes a Fabulous Maine Author! ~ Meet Bette A. Stevens, and her new book release, “Dog Bone Soup.”

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Featured Guest , , , , , , , ,

DBS A remarkable tale     .   DOG+BONE+SOUP+cover+SMALL++best

 

I am so honored and happy to welcome a Fabulous Maine Author, Bette A. Stevens to my blog!

Now I know many of my friends here may know Bette already. I have known Bette for quite some time now. But to be honest, we have networked together on many social media sites, but I can’t put my finger on the exact one we became friends on LOL. So when she asked for my help with promoting her fantastic books, of course I told her YES!
That way she can get that next ‘New York Times Best Seller’ written!

So please meet my good friend, Bette A Stevens. She has a brand new book release titled, DOG BONE SOUP, A Boomer’s Journey, a novel. And I have to tell you that the awesome book reviews are piling up on Amazon. How about to the tune of over 14 – 5 Star Reviews already! Now this little lady has a great reader following, and I’m pretty sure it is because of her wonderful website/blog: http://4writersandreaders.com
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So who is this woman who gets inspired by nature to write such wonderful books?
Well let’s find out! Here is a wee bit more about Author, Bette A Stevens, and some of her secrets to being such a fabulous writer and author shall we?
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Bette A. Stevens
Maine Author, Bette A. Stevens . . .

“I love people, nature, art, music and literature.”

“I advocate for kids and families, childhood literacy and for the protection of monarch butterflies and their threatened habitat in my books, my poetry and on my blog. My blog supports Indie and traditional authors, features great books and poetry and provides tips for writers and readers as well. So stop by my blog and share your ‘thoughts’ with me.”

About The Author:
Inspired by nature and human nature, Bette A. Stevens is an author, retired teacher, wife, mother of two and grandmother of five. Stevens lives in Central Maine with her husband on their 37-acre farmstead where she enjoys writing, reading, gardening, walking and reveling in the beauty of nature. She advocates for children and childhood literacy and for monarch butterflies, an endangered species.

Stevens’s children’s activity book, THE TANGRAM ZOO and WORD PUZZLES TOO!, was first published in 1997 by Windswept House Publishing, Mt. Desert, ME; a second edition was self-published by the author in 2012. AMAZING MATILDA, Stevens’s second children’s book, self-published in 2012 won a 2013 Purple Dragonfly Book Award (Honorable Mention for Excellence in Children’s Literature – Ages 6 and older category) and also placed #9 on The 2013 Gittle List for Self-published Children’s Picture Books. Stevens has written articles for ECHOES, The Northern Maine Journal of Rural Culture based in Caribou, Maine. In 2013, the author published her first book for the YA/Adult audience: PURE TRASH:
The story, a short story of a boy growing up in rural New England and prequel to now, DOG BONE SOUP, debut novel released January 2015.

Message From The Author:
“I love to walk and enjoy nature’s beauty, whether at home or on the go. I’m passionate about the beauty in the world around me and enjoy jotting down notes and composing short poems. The coast is one of my favorite places to relax. I’m a nature collector: everything from seashells to birds’ nests. When I was teaching, these treasures filled my classroom and provided inspiration for reading, writing and research. It was hands-on fun and excitement and I enjoyed every moment spent learning with, from and about my students.

One thing I learned is that many children don’t have an adult to read to them or listen to them read and talk about those books. Many of my blog and Facebook posts will focus on how we can improve childhood literacy by reading to the children in our families and communities. My own childhood was filled with books and adults who shared and encouraged a love of reading. I’ve written some poetry and several short stories. I plan to write some adult fiction, including a coming of age story, and write reviews on some of my favorite books. I’ll be sharing some of your stories, poems and tips on reading and writing, too. Let’s have fun learning, living, sharing and loving language together.” – Bette A. Stevens

Now Bette has a great collection of books. You may want to read her book titled; PURE TRASH, The Story: Shawn Daniels in a Poor Boy’s Adventure, before you read her new novel. Here is a little about this book:

 

Product Details         

The year is 1955. Experience the joy of a carefree Saturday and the blistering pain of feeling not quite good enough as you hop on a bike and ride into town with two delightful young boys who find adventure at every turn. Shawn and Willie Daniels live in the woods with no indoor water or plumbing. Dad spends most of his hard-earned money on beer. Prejudice, class division, alcoholism, poverty, injustice, and a hint at bullying are cleverly woven into this 1950s adventure short. PURE TRASH is a prequel to the author’s upcoming debut novel.
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Her Children’s Books too!

Product Details  “Click Me”
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Inspire the Kids in Your Life to Meet Challenges with Patience and Persistence!
This inspirational tale of a Monarch butterfly and her meadowland friends is the second children’s book written and illustrated by Bette A. Stevens.
  • Packed with action and adventure, this book is sure to entertain and inspire.
  • TWO LITERARY AWARDS–Excellence in Children’s Literature:
    * 2013 Purple Dragonfly Book Award (Picture Books 6+)
    * THE GITTLE LIST 2013 (Top 10 Self-published Children’s Picture Books)
Monarch Butterfly conservation is in the news. AMAZING MATILDA is too! Her storyline and illustrations follow the monarch life cycle and highlight milkweed, an environmentally threatened plant, the only food source for monarch caterpillars.
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AND:

Product Details “Click Me”

The Tangram Zoo and Word Puzzles Too! is a resource for multi-cultural and interdisciplinary studies in the classroom or at home. Integrates Math (measurement and geometry) and Language Arts (research and writing) for elementary and middle school students, while presenting a few historical facts about tangrams. Tangrams and word puzzles (rhyming riddles/poetry) encourage students to have fun while they’re learning, and then to demonstrate what they’ve learned. Includes ideas for home/school projects. Tangram outlines, with rhyming riddles as clues, are even labeled for coloring for preschoolers. Hands-on fun for the whole classroom/family.
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“Here is what readers are already saying about Bette’s new release, DOG BONE SOUP:”

 Outstanding Coming of Age Novel Set in the 1950s-60s
5 Stars!
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“This is a realistic charming, yet heartrending story reminiscent of `Huckleberry Finn,’ by Mark Twain. Author Stevens manages to portray this period of history with clarity and truth. Most amazingly her characters, while suffering more than today’s civilization, enduring a myriad of harsh circumstances, there is little self-pity among them. If ever a people made lemonade from lemons, it was the boomers.Amidst the hardship, including the nightly Dog Bone Soup, there are also times of adventure, playfulness and fun — as if Shawn and his generation are blessed with an innate ability to cope with daily setbacks; never losing hope and continually forging ahead aiming for better days.
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Author Bette A. Stevens writes a book full of heart and wisdom, a book that YA/adult readers will treasure and cherish. This generation in particular needs to read the book to learn what hard life was like, giving them the skills to adapt to the problems of their own generation. Dog Bone Soup, A Boomer’s Journey is a journey that the reader wishes would never end.

“Micki Peluso, author of . . . And the Whippoorwill Sang!

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A Tasty Treat of a Read!
5 Stars!

“I’ve never read anything quite like DOG BONE SOUP. This novel is unique in the best possible way. In many ways, it was an eye opener for me. 1950s and 60s America was before my time. It was an era I only had the faintest of notions about… until I read DOG BONE SOUP.Bette A. Stevens‘ writing grabbed a hold of me, pulled me into the story, and took me on an incredible journey that was at times heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting. Above all, it was memorable. Reading her book was an experience I’ll never forget.
Bottom line: DOG BONE SOUP is a tasty treat of a read and Bette A. Stevens is an enormously skilled storyteller.”

So now we all know more about this beautiful writer who gets her inspiration from nature, .  .  .
But did you know she is also a Poet & Illustrator as well? She did all the illustrations in her children’s books and to her poetry too! Here are a few examples of ones I love.
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“Moosehead by Moonlight”
Poem and watercolor by Bette A. Stevens © 2012
Inspired by a camping trip to Moosehead Lake in Greenville, ME

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SNOWSHOE Haiku BW Boost bas 2015.

So please go give Bette’s blog/website a visit today, . . .and  just ENJOY! http://4writersandreaders.com
I want to thank my sweet friend for giving me the opportunity to share not only her fantastic books, but to share all her
wonderful talents! I hope you will purchase her new release, and as always, be kind to us Authors and leave a book review if you enjoy her books. And you can connect with Author, Bette A Stevens on Social Media too!

Facebook: https://http://www.facebook.com/AuthorIllustratorBetteAStevens
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6037707.Bette_A_Stevens
About Me:  https://about.me/betteastevens?_escaped_fragment_=
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pub/bette-a-stevens/46/338/7a3
Google+ https://plus.google.com/107652706413504911701
YouTube Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/Wtq6QkTUxQ0
Amazon Books & Bio: http://www.amazon.com/Bette-A.-Stevens/e/B009GOYT1M


Happy Reading Friends!
Author, Catherine Lyon ~ Lyon Book Promotions

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‘Blackness & Police Violence: Two Peas in a Pod’ (A Real Life Short Story)

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Posts

Has Happened To You?
Well it happened to my sweet friend Shaquana!

Well It shouldn’t!! And we wonder why we continue to have events like Michael Brown, Freddie Gray and ALL the others. It truly is “Time For Change” for our Police Departments in America!

EverythingShaquana & Co.'s avatarEverythingShaquana.com

“If you’re not careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are being oppressed, and loving the people who are doing the oppressing.”
― Malcolm X

In Aug. of 2013, I experienced one of the most traumatic experiences of my life. I haven’t had the courage and strength to write about it in its entirety until now. I was reading my regular daily selection of internet news, and I came across the craziest, though, unsurprising article. A woman, Kam Brock, was committed to a mental institution at Harlem Hospital, by the NYPD apparently for telling them that she was followed by Barack Obama on Twitter.

Literally the article title reads, “Women Held in Psych Ward Over Obama Twitter Claim.” Can you believe that? Apparently, the NYPD impounded Kam’s car for iffy claims, and when she went to pick her car up, the police were…

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Me And Da Duke

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Posts

I keep telling this guy, {Trey} to start writing his book! He is a perfect example of WHY . . . Oh and I do love his blog too!
*Catherine ~ Lyon Book Promotions*

treyzguy's avatarLongHaul LDS

Have I told y’all about the time I met John Wayne?

Yeah….”THAT” John Wayne.images (2)

The Duke. George Washington “G.W” McLintock. Rooster Cogburn….Sean Thornton…..John Chisum….

It was 1976 and I was 12 years old.

It was also the very same year of the bicentintennial birthday of the United States and the very same summer that my grandmother took us all to Disney World in Orlando, Florida and I discovered that really real magic existed in the world.

Okay, back to The Duke….

I was a Boy Scout in Shiloh, Georgia. My mom was a den mother and there were about 20 of us boys, all told.

We were at Callaway Gradens, Georgia for a Scout Jamboree and hoping to take the checkered flag in the Pine Wood derby.

There was a whole bunch of scouts there of course, from all over SouthWest Georgia, hoping for the very same sweet taste of…

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I Welcome Authors, Shaaren Pine and Scott Magnuson and Their New Book Release, Torn Together.

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Featured Guest , , , , , , , , ,

Torn-Together_books
New Book Release . . .

I am so honored to welcome ‘Two New Authors’ here to Lyon Book Promotions!

Please meet Authors, Shaaren Pine and Scott Magnuson. Now to be honest, we all will learn more about their amazing new book release, and a wee bit more about them together. Scott happened to reach out to me to see if I could help promote their fantastic new book, and of course I said yes. Why?

Because it is a wonderful book about addiction, recovery, and about one family who thought they were not strong enough to weather this storm, but they did! And with the family in tact! It is an inspiration to share their story of ‘Triumph,’ and help promote their new book release.

Now most all my readers know, I live life in recovery as well, and I enjoy sharing these types of reads. So lets learn more about the book titled, Torn Together: One Family’s Journey Through Addiction, Treatment, and the Restaurant Industry.

Now your most likely wondering why the topic, and the word ‘Restaurant’ is in a book about addiction and recovery right? So let me start there, and I will tell you why, by sharing with you a wonderful newspaper article about them, about the book, and the restaurant, and how they give back to help others from addiction through their business.
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“Recovering addict and Washington, D.C. entrepreneur is dedicated to challenging restaurant culture. Owners of The Argonaut Restaurant & Bar, (In DC) fight to support restaurant workers struggling with addiction.”

WASHINGTON – Scott Magnuson and his wife Shaaren Pine co-own The Argonaut tavern.
After twice being recognized as one of the city’s best bars in Washingtonian magazine and twice finishing runner-up in the Washington City Paper’s “Most Family Friendly Restaurant” award, it is obvious that they know what they are doing. What is not immediately obvious is that one of the best bars in the nation’s capital is run by a recovering alcoholic and drug addict.

In their new memoir, “Torn Together,” that the couple has co-written—Magnuson and Pine describe the bumpy road that led to Magnuson’s recovery after battling addiction since he was 14 years old. Their two perspectives join together to form a very real and intense testimony of struggle to save both their family and their business.

“We need to take the shame and stigma off of addicts,” said Pine. “Addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing. Unfortunately, it is also a disease that infects everybody in its path. Because of that, everybody caught in addiction’s web needs help – not just the addict.”

Now that Magnuson and his family are in recovery, he and Pine have mounted a double pronged attack in the battle against addiction. They are doing what they can to let people who are struggling know that they are not alone. They are also trying to bring attention to restaurant culture’s permissive attitude with regard to drug and alcohol use in the workplace.

“Those who work in the restaurant industry know that there is a lot of use of drugs and alcohol,” said Magnuson. “Not everyone does it, of course, but those who do are often allowed to by their managers and bosses. Ignoring this behavior not only hurts these people and their families, but often ends up hurting the business as well.”

In addition to changing the culture within their own restaurant, Magnuson and Pine have also created a nonprofit called Restaurant Recovery that seeks to assist restaurant employees who would like help in finding and paying for reputable drug and alcohol treatment programs. It also helps the families of restaurant workers, seeking to both challenge and change restaurant culture.
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So now we know why the word ‘Restaurant’ is part of the book’s title, and how Shaaren and Scott give back through their business to be of recovery service to others. Now more about their new book and as authors.

About The Book ~ Torn Together:
Torn Together is a memoir, written by recovering alcoholic and addict husband, Scott Magnuson, and codependent wife, Shaaren Pine. Torn Together chronicles Scott’s addiction as his illness infects everyone around him, his eventual treatment, and the recovery process the whole family undertakes. It is also the story of The Argonaut, one of revitalized H Street, NE’s first restaurants, the struggle to get off the ground, rebuild after a terrible fire, and to keep going as the family is falling apart.

About The Co-Authors:
Scott Magnuson has been doing two things longer than most: Working in bars & restaurants, and drinking & drugging. An addict at 14, Scott got his first job in a bar – an industry that would allow him to focus on his first true loves, drugs and alcohol.

It was a good life, for a while. Evading the law, skirting the consequences of his actions, and leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. His world finally started crashing down around him 18 years later, and he was on the verge of losing his family, his business, and himself.

That was July 12, 2011.

Now, with several years of recovery under his belt, Scott is continuing his career in the restaurant industry, and is dedicated to helping others out of addiction’s darkness. He is also the president of the CHAMPS, the Capitol Hill Chamber of Commerce.
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Shaaren Pine has learned the ins and outs of the restaurant business since starting her first restaurant job in 2005. Now, as a manager and business owner, and with help from her Earlham College education, she is committed to bridging the gap between business and community, and changing restaurant culture. Shaaren is passionate about adoptee rights, and advocating for the families of addicts. She writes about her adoption from a social justice perspective, and about addiction through a spousal lens.

Together, Scott and Shaaren run two businesses, have created a non-profit*,  and serve on two boards, and are raising their daughter, Ara. The family lives in Washington, DC, and this is their first book.
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Scott Magnuson and Shaaren Pine, New Authors.
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family pic
The happy Family . . .

Here is what readers are saying, and the book buzz about their new book release:

Amazon Reviews:
By Claude Labbe on March 11, 2015 Format: Paperback

“If you thought your life is going through some drama and the prognosis is hopeless, then you’re ready for this roller coaster read. Most rides have ups and downs; Scott and Shaaren’s story is simply down and down more. This is an autobiography which was the only hope I had that the story would work out well. Life doesn’t tie things up in neat bows, especially for addicts and alcoholics, but life and this book did get much better at the end. If you, or someone you love is living the hell of addiction, grab this book to share the struggle and the victory Scott and Shaaren speak of.
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“Five Stars By Kerri C. Strauss on March 14, 2015
Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase ~ “Well written and very honest.
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“Media Book Reviews:
– Rishard Rashke ~ Author of “The Killing of Karen Silkwood”

“Torn Together is a brutally honest, courageous and uplifting story about the descent into drug and alcohol addiction, and the determination to save a marriage. It’s painful and funny. It will make you cry, laugh, and cheer. And it will draw you into a world you hear about but rarely get the chance to see. Highly recommended.”

–  Joe HeimWashington

“This hard-to-put-down book is a scaring, unrelentingly honest and touching portrayal of lives in the balance. Scott and Shaaren tell the tough and wrenching story of their lives together, their battles with fierce demons, their determination to see their marriage and business work and their realization that recovery is a never-ending process, not a destination.”

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Learn More About The Book & Family On Media & News Links:

The Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/when-youre-an-addict-but-serving-alcohol-is-in-your-job-description/2015/04/16/1fefd1fc-de12-11e4-a500-1c5bb1d8ff6a_story.html


Come Connect with Scott and Shaaren here on Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TornTogetherBook
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TwoTornTogether/
@TwoTornTogether  @ScottRMag
About.me: http://about.me/TornTogetherBook/
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And you can visit both their Book and Restaurant Web-sites Here:
Book: http://torntogetherbook.com
Restaurant: http://argonautdc.com
“The grandfather among the hip eateries of the Atlas District, The Argonaut is H Street’s true neighborhood gathering spot ~ The Argonaut in Washington, DC.”

I’d like to say; Thanks to Authors, Scott R Magnuson and Shaaren Pine for letting me share all about their new book release, “Torn Together” and for learning all that they do! I hope you visit all their sites, and as always, let them know you heard all about them right here on:
“Lyon Book & Social Media Promotions ~ Author Catherine Lyon”
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Their book is now available on AuthorHouse.com, Amazon.com. and Barnes and Noble.com Online.

 

 

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