Let’s all celebrate ‘Earth Day’ with Bette A. Stevens & Raves & Reviews with a Fabulous Award-Winning Children’s Book, “Amazing Matilda” … Your kids will love you for it!
Downloads now only .99 cents! http://bit.ly/19Qr3Y0
Lyon Book & Social Media Promotions :-) *Cat Lyon*
This month, I have been addicted to books about addiction. Like a book junky, even if I didn’t want to read more, I just had to. Any book that has come my way with its focus being on self-destruction, self-hatred, or self-analysis, and the attempt to tame the beast of self with proscribed substances, I have devoured. That’s my bag, you see – having personal experiences with addiction, I’m always morbidly attracted to the stories of people with similar crosses to bear.
Over the past few weeks I have plowed through Keith Richards’s memoir,Life, following it up with Anthony Kiedis’s Scar Tissue, and then moved swiftly on to Marilyn Manson’s ode to oddity, Long Hard Road out of Hell.
Enough, I thought, as I read the last tales of scoring eight balls and snorting cocaine off of prostitutes. I stacked the books up on my bookshelf, regained the will to live and thought perhaps of moving on to some kind of lighter material, picking up a copy of Woman’s Weekly; a publication so light, it practically floats if it is not weighed down. But it wasn’t to be, How to Grow an Addict, debut novel from New Zealand author J. A Wright, popped through my letterbox and after reading only half the blurb, I felt compelled to read on.
Having not inspected the front cover properly, until about half way through the book I had it in my mind that this novel was an autobiography. I had assumed that Randall Grange, the young, troubled addict protagonist of the piece was not a fictional character. Randall was written so realistically, so vividly and insightfully, that How to Grow an Addict read like one of the better autobiographical tales of addiction and redemption. To its credit,How to Grow an Addict is a wonderfully straightforward read, and not at all trite or contrived; there really isn’t any glorification in this story of a young girl trying to navigate growing up in the midst of a turbulent home life, often the sufferer of benign neglect at the hands of her equally troubled parents.
.
.
It is hard to pinpoint in this novel exactly where things start to go so wrong for Randall because it is seemingly nothing and everything that leads to her demise. The severity of her problems with substances and addiction are not over-sauced, so it is both shocking and a complete non-surprise when Randall crashes and burns one last time, and is tricked into entering a rehabilitation center. It takes a particular type of writer to capture all at once the banality and torture of addiction without being hackneyed or over-sentimental – J. A Wright excels at this. Her approach to the topic in this debut novel brought to mind passages from The Bell Jar; how one can be so entrenched in behavior that it seems completely normal in its absolute dysfunctionality.
The cynic in me usually wants this type of fiction to end in horrific tragedy, because that just seems more realistic; surely it’s only natural for some heroin addicts to take it too far and die in a public toilet of an overdose, or for a man to lose everything due to drink and never get his shot at redemption, but I genuinely found myself hoping for Randall’s recovery inHow to Grow an Addict, that’s how invested I was in her as a character. Now, perhaps I’m mellowing, or perhaps exceptional writing negated my inherent nihilism and all-around jaded attitude where “happy “endings are concerned. Perhaps . . .
How to Grow an Addict, by J.A. Wright, is published by She Writes Press, and is available now on Amazon Books and now Amazon Kindle Store …
About The Author:
How to Grow an Addict is J.A. Wright’s debut novel. Named best book of 2015 by Redbook/Good Housekeeping magazine and a finalist in both the 2015 USA Best Book Awards and 2015 Foreward Reviews’ INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award and Bronze winner in the 2016 IPPY Awards for Literary Fiction.
J.A. Wright has been in recovery from addiction since 1985. Raised in the Pacific NW, she moved to New Zealand with her young family in 1990. Visit her website for more about Author, J. A. Wright: Jodi A Wright Website .
The review for How to Grow an Addict received 5 stars.
“J.A. Wright’s How to Grow an Addict is a novelization about Randall, a young girl who is trying to navigate the testy waters of her family life and come out unscathed despite growing up in a house full of addicts and abusers. It reads like a memoir, a sort of “come clean” string of consciousness that chronicles her rise (or rather, fall) from a young girl to a young woman.
The novel is literally what the title implies, a sort of explanation of a series of factors both genetic and environmental that lead to the rise of a small, precocious, and anxious child becoming a full-blown addict. Randall has an abusive father and a mother who has a hard time defending her as it is clear that she’s terrified of losing him (going so far as to get breast implants in a failed attempt to stop him from sleeping around). He behaves like he hates Randall, and she chews her fingernails to nubs as a result – and has a hard time functioning in a normal world without fidgeting.
Randall is immensely likable, and though the reader begins to see her make a series of missteps as she gets older in an attempt to seek love in “all the wrong places,” the novel never takes on a judgmental tone.
Randall is just a girl who’s trying to navigate a very difficult situation that gets increasingly more difficult as life takes away some of her fiercest protectors and supporters. She is selfish, but only in a way that an addict is – someone who cannot see past their impulsive decisions into what the consequences may mean. It doesn’t matter to her as she’s just trying to get by in the only way she knows how. Her family resembles a million families, and some readers might even see some parallels between her family and their own in an alcoholic, abusive father who prioritizes a son above a daughter and creates another monster in the process; her brother who comes to hate her and lack empathy as much as her father does; her mother who is not perfect, but sad and unable to manage an angry and abusive husband, and who turns to anti-anxiety pills and alcohol as a way to cope.
Hello Readers,
Here is a great ‘Author Interview’, a great cause, and fantastic blog of Writer Christopher Fischer … *Cat Lyon*
I’m currently collaborating with several great authors on a project in aid of the Santa Paula ‘No Kill’ Animal Rescue Center. Each of us has contributed a work to this up-coming anthology and all proceeds will go directly to the shelter.
I’m proud to be involved not only as a dog owner and animal lover, but because I will be published along some extremely fine talent, like the gentleman I’m featuring today: Nathan Squiers, or – as we call him: The Literary Dark Emperor.
Nathan Squiers rocks. I’ve come across his work in a review group and was astonished by the character depth and passion in his books. He is a standup guy and a good friend. Here is an interview with him, so judge for yourself:
Welcome back Nathan, please explain to my readers who don’t remember you what type of fiction do you write and why?
I wish there…
View original post 1,182 more words
Hello Readers and Friends,
It’s been awhile since I have shared a ‘Wee Little Bit’ about my book titled: Addicted To Dimes, Confessions of a Liar and a Cheat, available in both paperback and e-book on Amazon. And, my book was recently read and reviewed by two new exciting readers. The most current is a fantastic author herself from the UK and was very honored she read and reviewed my book. She then did an in-depth fair and honest book review on her Book & Author Blog! Author, T.R. Robinson, thank you! You got it! You understood all the points I was trying to get out through my memoir, and you did pinpoint the area’s my writing needs to improve. I have no problem with corrective advice as it helps me be a better writer!
The second was placed here Amazon Top Book Reviewer and I was both honored and surprised that an Amazon Top 100 book reviewer took the time to read my book and do a nice fair book review. He is a writer and journalist for, Vine Voice and a Hall Of Fame Amazon Reviewer.
The next I am sharing is from a new book site I came across and used my book as a test run for a low-cost Professional Book Review to see how well they do before I refer clients over on Online Book Club .org Book Review. I hope you enjoy reading more of what readers and book reviewers are saying about my Memoir and Sharing HOPE to others from addiction through my book…. Author, Catherine Lyon :-)
# # # # #
A very personal, honest, no holds barred memoir. This is the tale of the author’s journey with gambling addiction. Catherine Townsend-Lyon has been very honest about all her failings. Though she admits writing the book had a cleansing and cathartic effect on her, it must have been very hard to recall and put into the public view all that occurred on her journey. She has to be admired and respected for having taken this step.
The author has endured much but at the same time, I think it only right to remind readers she is anything but alone in this. Many of us, one way or another, have suffered in our lives, some similar to her own experiences, others very different. We are each unique and individual and though there may be similarities each of our journeys differ.
Though one of her motivations for writing this book is to help others who suffer the same addiction it should be born in mind this is her own tale, dark at times. No doubt others have and do experience similar circumstances but this is not a handbook for them. Nevertheless, having said that, it should help many to appreciate they are not alone; that others have and are going through similar difficulties; that there is hope; that there is escape if they truly work toward it.
Throughout, ‘triggers’ are described and talked about but we must bear in mind these are also personal to her. For others, the ‘triggers’ may be very different. Catherine (if I may be so personal as to refer to her by first name) frequently explains how, through her dysfunctional family, she consistently felt valueless. But also, and very sadly, briefly describes; how she was abused by someone outside the family; how she was unable to tell anyone about it; how this also acted as a ‘trigger’ and how the combined resulting mindset and emotions have continued to plague her throughout life.
Drawbacks:
Before mentioning these it is only fair to acknowledge the author has made clear she is not a writer but has simply decided to share her own story. It is very much told in her own words and expressions which have the benefit of really making this a personal work.
Nevertheless:
Rating: As any regular or frequent readers of this blog and my reviews will know, I consider the majority of books fall within the three-star rating. Regrettably, to my mind at least, the rating system has been undermined, sad to say mostly by self-published authors, by the constant allocation of higher ratings than often merited. But at the same time, I acknowledge reading is a subjective experience. Consequently, what one may enjoy another may dislike and each has the right to reflect this.
Nonetheless, I do consider far too many four and five stars have been given. Now, with respect to this book, I have found it difficult to determine a final rating. The author has willingly shared everything, exposing all her faults and failures honestly. She has taken us on the difficult journey of her life without drawing back from the realities, prepared to endure the opinions and attitudes that may result. For this reason, and despite the reservations referred to above, I consider the book merits a higher rating than three stars. Existing rating systems, well at least those that are primarily used by readers, do not allow for percentages. Consequently, I feel there is no option but for me to allocate a 4 Stars (****).
.
The book is available both as a paperback and as an e-book from: Amazon.com: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CSUJI3A
Amazon.co.uk: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00CSUJI3A
Reviewer sidenote:
Catherine Townsend-Lyon contacted me about a year ago asking if I would consider a review exchange of books. I agreed and we exchanged free copies. I did explain it would take a while for me to read and review; there are many demands upon my time.
Nevertheless, a year is excessive. Unexpectedly some family issues arose, including health, that required my absence from my usual routine. At first, I tried to keep up but in the end had to abandon my on-line and reading activity. In the end, I was absent for eight to nine months. Of course, I then had the mammoth catching up process to go through. However, I firmly believe we should always fulfill our undertakings, even, as in this case, where deadlines have to be postponed. All I may do is apologize to her for the long delay but in my defense point out it has been due to circumstances outside of my control.
# # # # # #
Now, my second review is just a partial review, as I would you like for you to visit the website to see all the awesome books and great free services they have for readers & authors over on Online Book Club .org Book Review !
.
![610dNqhEamL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA278_PIkin4,BottomRight,-79,22_AA300_SH20_OU01_[1] - Copy](https://catsbooklibrary4readers.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/610dnqheaml-_bo2204203200_pisitb-sticker-arrow-clicktopright35-76_aa278_pikin4bottomright-7922_aa300_sh20_ou01_1-copy.jpg?w=700){kind=icon}
.
.
G, A Porter Posts: 21 Joined: 03 Oct 2015, Currently Reading: the king’s curse Bookshelf Size: 325 books ~ Online Book Club .org
.
[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of “Addicted To Dimes” by Catherine Townsend-Lyon.]
A 3 out of 4 Stars…
Review by G A Porter … April 11th, 2016
Addicted To Dimes, Confessions of a Liar and a Cheat by Catherine Townsend-Lyon is a Memoir about the author’s personal battle with gambling addiction. The book explores the author’s past experiences and decisions which eventually culminated in a financially and emotionally devastating addiction and the difficult ordeal of the recovery process. The author is open and honest about her past mistakes, her family drama, family dysfunctional dynamic, past abuse, and the long-term consequences gambling has had on her marriage and friendships.
The first section of the book is an introduction to the author’s early life. She grew up in a dysfunctional family and suffered abuse at the hands of her parents as well as outsiders. As a teenager and young woman, the author felt stifled by her mother’s overbearing control, particularly in controlling her own hard-earned money. She outlines decisions she made and relationships she began while searching for a replacement “unconditional love” that she did not receive from her parents. The hardships of her early life may have made the author vulnerable to the lure of addiction, and the continuing dysfunction may have added fuel to the fire later in her life.
The author gives the description of her family dysfunction and past to illustrate the person she used to be before the addiction took over her life. The addiction began slowly, but over time grew and drove her to drastic actions. As stress piled on her, gambling became an outlet and escape to her emotions. She also adopted the gambler’s mentality of placing bets to win money she desperately needed to pay bills, but in the end, would lose more money than she came in with and chased her loss’s. Over the years, and giving insights, not excuses, the author would borrow money, steal from friends and workplaces, and jeopardize everything she and her husband worked for to maintain her gambling habit before fully committing to the recovery process.
Townsend-Lyon was inspired to write this book after hearing the news of a local woman’s suicide due to gambling addiction. She wrote this book to give hope to those caught in the addiction that recovery is possible as well as to inspire empathy and bring awareness to others. The recovery process took a long time for the author and she described the “rock bottom” situation that appears to have been necessary for her to fully commit to the recovery process. She describes her own missteps, triggers from family and stress, and aspects of therapy which were most and least helpful for her. In the end, she appears to have been successful, if still in financial hardship at that time.
Please visit the website link to read the full review and Final Rate of my book: Online Book Club .org Book Review Thanks, Friends! :-) *Cat*
Hello Authors, Readers, and Friends!
Exciting news! My Pal Jason is now offering “Book Promotions” …
I added my own book to his promo as we both offer different types of book promos SO authors have a well-balanced promo plan for all your books! Come get yours today “-)
Author, Cat Lyon “-)
HOW TO GROW AN ADDICT: A Novel ~ By Author, J.A. Wright …
.
( Author, Jodi A Wright )
About The Award-Winning Book:
Randall Grange has been tricked into admitting herself into a treatment center and she doesn’t know why. She’s not a party hound like the others in her therapy group—but then again, she knows she can’t live without pills or booze. Raised by an abusive father, a detached mother, and a loving aunt and uncle, Randall both loves and hates her life. She’s awkward and a misfit. Her parents introduced her to alcohol and tranquilizers at a young age, ensuring that her teenage years would be full of bad choices, and by the time she’s twenty-three years old, she’s a full-blown drug addict, well acquainted with the miraculous power chemicals have to cure just about any problem she could possibly have—and she’s in more trouble than she’s ever known was possible.
.
( click book to Amazon )
“Editorial Reviews”
“How to Grow an Addict is J.A. Wright’s debut novel. It’s been named best book of 2015 by Redbook/Good Housekeeping magazine and a finalist in both the 2015 USA Best Book Awards and 2015 Forward Reviews’ INDIEFAB Book of the Year Award.
“Wright deftly and insightfully describes how a life can spiral toward addiction and rehab. The story is raw and touching and I found myself rooting for Randall as she navigates redemption and sobriety. A gritty and honest read.”
-Susie Orman Schnall, award-winning author of On Grace and The Balance Project.
“J. A. Wright’s book is a compelling illustration of what fertile ground families are for nurturing addiction. It’s not all doom and gloom however – the story is told in a clear-eyed, unsentimental voice which, for me, made it utterly convincing.” – Morrin Rout, Co-producer/presenter of Bookenz
# # # # #
“It seems my friend and fellow Author, J. A. Wright has the ‘write recipe’ in writing a great piece of fiction that includes addiction and recovery laced & weaved real life experience into this storyline.”
It will be my next book I will be reading and excited to start. But I can tell you the ‘Amazon Book Reviews’ are exceptional, and they are coming in hot and heavy as (43) total as of this post. Now, I’m no ‘James Lipton’ of the “Actors Studio,” so here is a little more about her writing and a wee bit more about her personal side of life. We all know I only ask a few questions of my guests, and here is what Jodi shared.
.
.
1.) Do you share your recovery story with others? Or is this question “off-limits?”
Sure. I’m open to talking about it. I have no issues with anyone knowing about my life as an addict or a recovering addict.
2.) What is the most challenging for you as a writer?
Finding the time to write is my biggest challenge. It takes four or five days of writing for a few hours for me to get into a writing groove. I don’t get this opportunity as often as I’d like as I have a job (to support my writing ambitions), and it too often gets in the way of my writing. I do keep a process diary (journal) that I add ideas and thoughts to almost daily.
3.) How do deal with writer’s block?
I don’t deal with it very well. I’m pretty hard on myself about not getting something done on time. I’ve heard that giving yourself a break and adopting an attitude of gratitude is helpful. I might try it.
4.) How difficult was it to weave in addiction into your storyline?
Not difficult at all. I was raised around heavy drinkers, problem drinkers, and alcoholics, and more enablers than I can count. I have no shortage of material. LOL.
5.) Lastly, what are a few of your hobbies and interests? And can you tell us one thing readers may not know about you?
I run, I mountain bike and hike and I bake. I pretty sure I’m not at all that interesting when it comes to those secret things, but I’ve always been leery about telling people I once collected stamps and I’m a super big fan of Jazz!
# # # # #
LOL, I don’t think stamp collecting is all that bad to share Jodi … “-)
Well readers, there you go! Now that you have met our new featured Author, J. A. Wright, please go visit her wonderful website here J. A. Wright, Author and go connect with on social media and grab a copy of her fantastic book too!
On Twitter
Over on my Facebook Like Page
*** Author Spotlight Presented By Lyon Book Promotions ***
What is the most challenging for you as a writer?
Finding the time to write is my biggest challenge. It takes four or five days of writing for a few hours for me to get into a writing groove. I don’t get this opportunity as often as I’d like as I have a job (to support my writing ambitions), and it too often gets in the way of my writing. I do keep a process diary (journal) that I add ideas and thoughts to almost daily.
"CAT'S BOOK LIBRARY 4 READERS" 