In-Depth Interview Share With Rusty Blackwood All About Her New Romance Drama ~ “The Perils of Autumn.”

Courtesy of  “ReadFree.Ly” . . .

The Perils of Autumn is a contemporary romantic drama, set primarily in the early 1970s, and centers on young Kentucky woman, Autumn Leeves, born in 1946 to Abigail Leeves, an unwed mother who struggles to make ends meet. By 1970, Autumn graduates nursing school and is sent on assignment from the local hospital to care for the terminally-ill wife of middle-aged, English equestrian master, Cyril Landon, owner of Landon Lawns Stables, a most successful thoroughbred racing stable located just outside Lexington, Kentucky in a posh community known as The Meadows.

Rusty Blackwood     The Perils of Autumn

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Tell us about Duff Taylor. He’s the other main character in the book, right?
Duff Taylor, world renown jockey who is tops in his field, lives full-time above the tack room at Landon Lawns and enjoys the many benefits it brings, but he also has a dark secret surrounding an unsolved racing incident from his past that he will go to any length to protect.

Autumn arrives at Landon Manor in time to be thrown into the fray and finds herself caught up in the ongoing disruption that ensues.

Oh? What genre does this book fall into?
Romance.

If you like a story that is filled with action, drama, and suspense, as well as one that will touch your heart in the process, you’ll love my book.

So it’s not just a simple romance story?
As there are a few different aspects and subjects entailed in this story, I feel it will appeal to a general audience, especially those who love the world of the Triple Crown, and professional equestrian events. However, people and situations do not always appear as they are.

It also shines a light on what it was like for single mothers in the 1940’s who endured the judgmental standards of the time. It applauds the resilience of Abigail, and her daughter Autumn, as they struggle to make their way in a world that is often against them. So for anybody looking for an insightful read, this is the one to read.

Talk to us about Autumn.
She is a young, strong, determined woman, born in 1946 to an unwed mother. Autumn refuses to adhere to the same standards that tried suppressing her strong-willed mother, and at age twenty-four, becomes a registered nurse who is excited to see where her career will take her. She is a compassionate, feisty, auburn-haired, doe-eyed beauty who loves animals, horses in particular, and wears her heart on her sleeve.

How much of Autumn is really just a reflection of you?
A fair amount, such as the love of horses, the excitement of riding, the need to constantly be strong regardless of how I feel, and the drive to succeed in areas that always seem against me. I have always borrowed from my own life experiences when creating a new story, and used them to create unique, interesting characters to immerse into stories that I would love to be part of.

Sounds like you’re not done with this character.
The Perils of Autumn is the first of two. The second carries on from where Perils of Autumn leaves off and takes the reader to end of the intriguing story. It is titled, Return to Autumn, and is expected in early 2020.

We can’t wait.

We know that you like horses – what else do we need to know about you?
I was born in St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada, and grew up on my paternal grandfather’s farm in rural south-western Ontario. I graduated with honors in Interior Decorating & Design – not writing – and I am not professionally trained in the field, however, I developed my love of writing while still in elementary school, and carried that love well into my adult years. I was fortunate to be blessed with the unique ability to express myself through the stories I wrote. I became a serious writer in 2001, and an independent, self-published author in 2009, publishing my first collection of contemporary and traditional poetry, entitled, Feelings: A Rhythmic Journey in Thought, which I later republished under the title, Impressions, containing the contents of Feelings along with new work. My first love is romance drama, and I love to create scenarios to immerse my often colorful characters into. I am a retired vocalist, and musician who plays guitar, and bass guitar respectively, and once performed professionally with two south-western Ontario bands: ‘The Midnight Ramblers’, country music, and the country/rock/blues band, MIRAGE. I love art, animals – mostly dogs and horses, boating, gardening, taking long walks in nature, and spending time with family and friends as well as my dear cat, Tipper.

Can we go back to your career as a writer? Tell us more about that.
The Perils of Autumn is my seventh title. I had published four titles prior, but they are no longer available, so I presently have seven. I write four different genres, and they are – with tiles, children’s short stories, ‘Through the Eyes of Innocence’, a comedy series, ‘The Misadventures of Derwood Tugbottom’ and ‘Derwood Returns’, poetry, ‘Impressions’, and romantic fiction drama, my favorite genre, consisting of Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, and ‘Willow’s Walk’.

I have just completed the third installment of my comedy series, entitled, ‘Derwood Goes Caribbean’, which is soon to be published.

How on earth is it possible to write so prolifically in multiple genres? Where do your stories come from?
Mostly my imagination, as well as the different things I love to do. There’s always a story to be found within all of them.

Okay, can we test your ability to come up with stories? What if we give you 4 random words – airport, gun, Pepsi, floods? Can you turn them into a story?
A beautiful executive from a well known Toronto accountancy firm was in flight to South Beach, Miami. She sat sipping an ice-cold Pepsi when the captain’s voice came on the intercom, announcing his intention to land elsewhere as their designated landing strip was covered in oil, flooding the entire landing area. She was about to speak to the gentleman beside her, when someone screamed, “He’s got a gun!”

Wow, that’s exciting. How can our readers contact you on social media – if they want to nag you for the rest of the story?

Facebook.
Twitter – @rusty_blackwood
Pinterest
Goodreads

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Do you have a website too?
www.rusty-blackwood.com

What’s next for you?
I have just completed the third installment for my Derwood Tugbottom comedy short series, titled, ‘Derwood Goes Caribbean’, and will be publishing that through Amazon’s KDP platform. I have also begun work on the follow-up novel to ‘The Perils of Autumn’, titled, ‘Return to Autumn’. I have also considered doing a final poetry collection that will contain my favorite selections. I also have a historical documentary underway based on my years with my family’s country music band, The Midnight Ramblers, titled, ‘Rambin’ Years: The Midnight Ramblers: A Biographical Account’.

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Please Visit For More Amazing Author Interviews and Books!

Amazing New Book Blogger Review For Rusty Blackwood’s New Book – “The Perils of Autumn” By AmyBooksy . . .

Welcome Avid Readers and Visitors, 

This amazing review and post by my dear friend and fellow Book Blogger Amy Booksy of her blog  Locks, Hooks and Book Reviews!  and this review of  “The Perils of Autumn” of our Fine Author, Rusty Blackwood of 5-STARS means you need to give it a read!

CAT

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Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Review: The Perils of Autumn by Rusty Blackwood

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The Perils of Autumn by Rusty Blackwood

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Book Blurb: 

From the author of the riveting romantic fiction drama, Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, and the celebrated, 5-star award-winning romantic fiction drama, Willow’s Walk, comes the intense romantic drama, The Perils of Autumn. 

This page-turner, set primarily in the early 1970s, centers on a young Kentucky woman, Autumn Leeves, born in 1946 to Abigail Leeves, an unwed mother who struggles to make ends meet. By 1970, Autumn graduates nursing school and is sent on assignment by the local hospital to care for the terminally-ill wife of middle-aged English equestrian master, Cyril Landon, owner of Landon Lawns Stables, a most successful thoroughbred racing stable located just outside Lexington, Kentucky in a posh community known as The Meadows. 

Duff Taylor, world renown jockey who is tops in his field, lives full-time above the tack room at Landon Lawns and enjoys the many benefits it brings, but he also has a dark secret surrounding an unsolved racing incident from his past that he will go to any length to protect. 

Autumn arrives at Landon Manor in time to be thrown into the fray and finds herself caught in the ongoing disruption that ensues.


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My Review: 

The Perils of Autumn is my first introduction to Rusty Blackwood’s writing. Within the first few pages, I knew she had gained a new fan. This is a great read, with relatable characters and situations. I felt connected to Autumn right from the start.

The Perils of Autumn is getting a well deserved five stars from me. I can not wait to read more by this author in the future. I have added her other works on my wish list.

Highly recommended!

I received this book from the author but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion. ~AmyBooksy 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

“The Perils of Autumn, by Canadian author Rusty Blackwood, is an English language, romantic fiction drama, published by Tellwell Talent, and released January 17, 2019. It is available in Hardback, Paperback, and Kindle editions.”

Romantic fiction author Rusty Blackwood, who chose her plume de nom by combining the colour of her russet hair with her husband’s great, great, Scottish grandmother’s maiden name, was born in St.Thomas, Ontario, Canada on October 5th, and grew up on her paternal grandfather’s farm in the County of Elgin, located in the south-western portion of the province of Ontario.

She acquired her love of literature while still in elementary school where she entered her original compositions into county fairs, school contests, and whatever venue allowed participants in the writing field. She has carried that love ever since and has put it to use many times since becoming a professional writer in 2001.

From the time of youth she has loved the Arts in their many unique forms and is a graduate with honors in Interior Decorating & Design. She spent many years on the south-western Ontario stage performing with her family’s country music band: The Midnight Ramblers, followed by the country – rock – blues band: ‘MIRAGE’ as an accomplished vocalist, bassist, and rhythm guitarist. She now resides in the cultural city of St. Catharines, Ontario.

Please visit her official website http://www.rusty-blackwood.com for numerous reviews and information on her work.

My Friends At TCK Publishing Helps Authors Be Amazing Writers With These Tips and Advice . . .

Welcome Friends, Writers, and Authors,

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Today I have a featured guest article from my friend Tom Corson-Knowles, CEO of TCK Publishing who shares some amazing advice and tips on becoming a more seasoned writer. I enjoy visiting his helpful website as he shares so much it keeps me coming back often and learning more about writing, authoring, selling my books and I can pass it on book marketing tips to all my author friends and clients.

Authors, make sure you check out his upcoming 2019 “TCK Publishing Readers Choice Awards” and enter your book! There are fabulous prizes and it helps get more exposure to your book! So let’s all learn some tips on becoming Better Writers!

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40 Tips On Creative Writing by Dan Buri FACEBOOK and TWITTER TEASER

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“Writing professionally is a full-time job with part-time hours and never-ending responsibilities.”
Most professional writers don’t actually spend 8 hours writing each day, but that doesn’t mean they’re not working.

If you want to become a more productive writer, you have to learn to manage your work, your life, and your mental and physical wellbeing. You can’t sustain high levels of creativity and productivity as a writer without working on yourself.

Here are the 10 things that helped me become a more productive writer, and I hope these tips help you too.

1.  Schedule Your Work

You have to make time in your schedule for writing, marketing, and business time.

Don’t let a day go by without writing and working on your career. Even if it’s just 15 minutes here and there it adds up. The work habits you build will determine your success or failure.

Every day you skip your writing work, you bring yourself closer and closer to failure, anxiety, stress, and the really bad habit of procrastination that dooms far too many writers’ promising careers.

2. Study

Learn everything you can about writing, publishing, and marketing. Ignorance is not bliss. It will ruin your dreams.

Check out the best books on writing.

Learn how to improve your readability.

Understand how to do market research for writing and learn more about your customers and readers.

Every day, study so you can learn a little bit more about the incredible art of writing.

3. Make Mistakes

You’ll learn more from your mistakes than just about anything else.

Be bold. Get rejected. Publish crappy articles and books (at first).

You learn as you go and you have to be willing to fail or you’ll never learn what you need to learn to succeed.

The only difference between you and the most successful writers in the world is they’ve made more mistakes than you have. Learn from your mistakes and keep going.

4. Get Rid of Bad Habits

To become a successful writer, I had to get rid of my addiction to video games, binge-watching TV series and complaining. I also had to develop new habits like working out, taking walks, meditating, and asking for help. I had to ask hundreds of people for help along the way. I never could have done it alone.

Bad habits and addictions will destroy your creative output. You need every extra hour you can get to take care of yourself and focus on your writing career.

If you waste that time on bad habits, you’ll be shooting yourself in the foot.

5. Build Relationships

Meet other writers and creative people with big ambitions and good work habits. Just being around people who published 1, 2, or more books since you started yours will motivate the heck out of you.

You’ll see that other people are succeeding and you’ll be inspired to work extra hard to make your dreams come true.

6. Ignore the Noise

Don’t waste time with complainers, energy vampires, or depressed people. Their energy will infect you. It’s nearly impossible to create while depressed or stressed.

If you find something or someone in your life is distracting you from being productive, happy, and fulfilled, deal with it now! Putting it off will only make you feel more stressed, anxious, and depressed. And if that’s how you feel day after day after day, chances are you’ll never become a highly productive writer.

7. Manage Your Emotions

Writing is painful as hell. You will feel miserable sometimes. You’ll be scared, angry, hurt, feel emotions you haven’t felt or haven’t wanted to feel for years. It’ll open up parts of yourself you never imagined we’re there. Embrace it. Get help. See a therapist. Talk about your feelings and problems.

8. Take Care of Yourself

You are your biggest obstacle to success. You have to learn to work harder on improving yourself than you do at your writing career.

When you work on improving your life, even if it’s just a little bit, it’ll help you become more creative and productive.

Take that walk around the block. Eat healthier. Meditate. Get rid of bad relationships. Make your relationships better. Reduce your stress.

Small things may not seem that important but they can make all the difference in the world over your lifetime.  Creating is hard enough without adding 10 more problems to your life.

Solve the little problems and becoming a more productive creator will be a lot easier.

9. Add Value Always

Focus on adding value not making money.

Your readers need your help. Your job is to help them, no matter what kind of books you write. Your story and the message could change their life. It’s your job to do the best you can possibly do to help your reader. Nothing else is as important to your career as helping your readers.

When you have a big decision to make about the direction of your work, the title for your book, or any other creative decision, ask yourself:

“What’s best for my reader?”

Whatever the answer is, it’s almost always the right choice. Do what’s best for your reader. Add value to their lives. If you do that well enough, everything else will work out.

10. Experiment

If what you’ve been doing hasn’t been working, it’s up to you to change it. Do something different. Try new things. Experiment. Play like a kid. You are smart enough to figure it out if you really want to become a successful and productive writer.

Believe in yourself, believing in your dreams, and believe in your work.

You can do it if you’re willing to do the right thing day after day after day.

That’s how you build a successful life and a successful writing career.
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If you liked this post, please visit my friends from TCK Publishing as below are some other articles you might love:

Cat Welcomes Author, Rusty Blackwood To Our Fine Line-up of Authors. Her New Book is About To Release & An Intimate Interview.

Hello, Readers and Welcome New Visitors,

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You are all in for a treat today! I am honored and happy for everyone to meet and welcome our newest Author, Rusty Blackwood from Canada. Rusty and I have been friends for several years, and very soon Rusty has a BRAND NEW Book releasing that I get to share with all you! It is titled “The Perils of Autumn” a contemporary romance drama that is sure to please all readers! So let Cat get right to it and share a fabulous new interview she just did for Vinny at Awesomegang, an excellent place for all genre of reads, and all about this fantastic favorite Canadian writer.

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ABOUT THE PERILS OF AUTUMN:


Sometimes a book trailer is better than words … Rusty is pleased to bring you the official theatrical trailer for my upcoming, 5-star-award-winning romantic fiction drama, The Perils of Autumn. This page-turner is certain to become one your favorites …

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A Few Words from Rusty Blackwood

“It is my sincere hope that you enjoyed The Perils of Autumn, and I extend a personal invitation to continue reading about the often-unsettling life at Landon Manor, and Landon Lawns Stables. Rejoin Autumn and Cyril, as well as their staff, meet a few new, and interesting characters, and find out what happens to all concerned, as the story carries to its heart-touching conclusion in the coming, follow-up novel, Return to Autumn.”

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perils back cover

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An Intimate Interview With Rusty Blackwood by Our Friends of Awesome Gang a Readers Favorite Place.

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Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.

I grew up during the 1950s on my paternal grandfathers farm in rural southwestern Ontario, Canada. My loving parents are both gone now, and I miss them every day, but I still have my brother. I am Mom to two wonderful sons, and loving grandmother to three beautiful granddaughters, and one handsome grandson. I am also a great grandmother – or G-G – as I am known to my delightful great-grandson.

I have always loved to write. This adoration for English composition began in grade school and carried into my adult years. Though I am unprofessionally trained in the field of writing, I have always possessed the uncanny ability of unique expression in stories that could grasp the heart and soul of the reader. I am an Interior Decorator by trade, and owned and operated a residential home service for twenty-eight years before retiring from that field. My writing venture began in 2001 when I became a serious writer with the intent on seeing where it could possibly take me. Over the years I had written an assortment of both contemporary and traditional poetry, and from this, I put together my first collection under the title, Feelings: A Rhythmic Journey in Thought which I self-published in 2009.

This was followed in 2010 with my first collection of children’s short stories, entitled, Young Minds. This collection was based on my own childhood as well as stories I wrote for my grandchildren. In 2010 I published the first part of the original two-part Passion in Paris that I began writing in 2001. This two-part romantic fiction drama was short-lived, and it was also not the way I had envisioned my first venture into this genre to be nor the publishing of it, and because of this, the end result was inept, so I took it off market it until I could revise it into my original concept, that of which I finally brought to fruition in the 818 pages, 4-star-Amazon awarded, romantic fiction grand scale novel, Passions in Paris: Revelations of a Lost Diary, which I released in 2013. Leading up to this, I published a new poetry collection entitled, Impressions which I released in 2011.

I followed this with a revised children’s short story collection, containing previously published stories, including those written for my grandchildren plus additional new stories, under the title, Through the Eyes of Innocence. This was followed in 2012 by the comedy short, The Misadventures of Derwood Tugbottom. This was followed in 2015 by the 5-star-awarded romantic fiction drama, Willow’s Walk. In 2017, I following that novel with the second in the Derwood Tugbottom comedy series, entitled, Derwood Returns. The early titles, Feelings, Young Minds, and the two-part Passion in Paris: Connections and Directions respectfully, are no longer available.

The rest can be obtained at all Amazons, as well as other fine online bookstores, and brick and mortar order desks everywhere. The Perils of Autumn and Derwood Goes Caribbean are soon to be released. I hope everyone will watch for them, as well as check out the available titles I mentioned.

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What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?

The Perils of Autumn. I have always adored horses and admired nurses. I find the horse a most intelligent animal – if not the most intelligent, at least in my opinion – and I always loved to watch them, speak with them, and applaud their wonderful movements. I loved to ride in my youth, even had my own pony as a girl, however, I never rode professionally, or entered show competitions, but I would take in as many as I could. I have always held immense respect for nurses, and the dedication they possess when it comes to healing those who are ailing, recuperating from surgery or an accident, and it is all done with expert care and compassion. Because of the admiration for these two subjects, I decided to combine them in a story that centers around both.

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Do you have any unusual writing habits?

I’m not exactly sure what ‘unusual’ means in this question. However, I do like to scribble ideas and dialogue in a notebook that I keep for ideas for future projects. My desk is always littered with small notes pertaining to whatever I’m working on at the moment. I used to write in the evening often well into the night, but since retiring from my business I now apply, and have for a while now, the day hours that I once worked to my writing. However, it can often be distracting and annoying when the phone rings, a dog continually barks outside, or the usual noise throughout the house as well as outside that carries in.


What authors, or books have influenced you?

I have great appreciation and respect for a few authors who are primarily known as authors of children’s books, and they are Canadian authoress, Lucy Maude Montgomery ( Anne of Green Gables, plus the Emily of New Moon series and more) British author Anna Sewell (Black Beauty) and American author Laura Ingalls Wilder (Little House on the Prairie series of books). I also enjoy the workings of Mark Twain (Tom Sawyer & Huckleberry Finn, both classics). Fav authors of adult works are Nora Roberts, Kathryn Stockett (The Help), Stephen King ( numerous horror & psychological thrillers) and British authoress, Emile Bronte (Wuthering Heights). I also enjoy the work of fellow Niagara author, Gina IaFrate. There are many talented, self-published, local authors in your area; check them out, and give them a read. You might find yourself pleasantly entertained.

What are you working on now?

I am currently finishing the third installment of my Derwood Tugbottom comedy series, entitled, Derwood Goes Caribbean. Each book in this series takes the bumbling, retired London England City Hall Official, on another eccentric adventure, where he is sure to tickle your funny-bone with his hysterical antics. In the latest, he, and his best friend, Scotsman Robert McEwen, board The Travelling Minstrel as it sets course for the Caribbean with a ship full of singles looking for a good time.

I have also begun work on the follow-up novel to The Perils of Autumn, entitled, Return to Autumn. This second part of the ongoing story introduces readers to a few new characters, solves a deep secret and brings it out into the open, and carries the reader to the end of this touching, and not-soon-forgotten story.

What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?

I use all social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Pinterest, Goodreads, Google+, Authors.com, as well as my official website http://www.rusty-blackwood.com, where readers may find assorted information about me, my work, my titles, and keep caught up with me through my Journal/Blog. I also write a monthly, end of month Newsletter that carries my news of the month, whatever that may be. It’s a great way to keep engaged with readers on my contact list, and them with me.

I have worked with my stellar marketing rep & publicist, Don McCauley, since 2011, who looks after me well and also keeps my name before the public eye. That is most important, for if you are out of sight, you are out of mind. I also work with Joe Crawford, of the Niagara based The Joe Show on the TJSN Network, and I have recently begun working with author and writer, Catherine Townsend-Lyon of Lyon Media Services,  beginning with the promotion of the soon to be released, Readers Favorite 5-star-award-winning, romantic fiction drama, The Perils of Autumn.

Do you have any advice for new authors?

Write what you know. There is nothing more discouraging or upsetting than to undertake a subject in written words that you know little about and make it entertaining and legible to the reader. Often writers draw from life experiences, I do, for there is no better research than what you have experienced first hand. But when you are very young, you have yet to have much experience to draw from, therefore research everything thoroughly. I believe this suggestion could be taken by any writer, seasoned or not, but if you write about things you know about, you will find your finished piece a polished, fine offering for the eyes of any reader that chooses your title.

Critique is a large portion of writing; it is not always kind, and you must learn to take what you can from that and apply it to your craft. Do not expect that your first, even second or third title will be an instant success. It may or may not happen, but if you love to write, have a passion to write, then you will find a way to stick with it. It can be a very long, drawn-out process. Finally, do not let anyone tell you it cannot be done. Only you know the muse inside you, so let it speak to you, and have fun.

What is the best advice you have ever heard?

Pretty much what I said in the above prior question. Things take time, they rarely happen overnight, and if you go into this field with expectations that you put out a book and you are an instant celebrity with gold untold, then you may be badly disappointed. It may happen, there is nothing saying it won’t, but keep an open mind, and approach realistically.

What are you reading now?

Bestowed With Love And Splendor by Niagara author, Gina IaFrate. It is a wonderful story of a degraded-by-her-husband woman who finds herself in a heartbreaking, mentally abusive marriage. The heroine, an agent for a Niagara travel agency, is sent to the Island of Sardinia to assist their associate agency in setting up new programs for tourists. While there, she encounters the possibility of a life she could only dream about should she choose to remain in her present, loveless marriage and proceeds to struggle with a life that could be hers for the taking.

What’s next for you as a writer?

I am currently working on the 3rd installment of the Derwood Tugbottom comedy series, Derwood Goes Caribbean, and I will also be doing the 4th installment in the series, possibly the last, but that is still not decided, and I have started the follow-up novel to The Perils of Autumn, entitled Return to Autumn. This novel will carry readers to the end of this intense story. I am also planning a final poetry collection. I have written a huge array of contemporary and traditional poetry over the years, and I hope to compile them in a final collection.

I have also started a historical account of my family’s country music band, The Midnight Ramblers, entitled Ramblin’ Years: The Midnight Ramblers: A Biographical Account. I joined this band in 1963 at age 13 as a vocalist. I also learned to play acoustic guitar, and bass guitar, which I played from 1970 until the group ended in the mid-seventies.

If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
Gone With the Wind, a map of the area, The Bible, and a photograph album of my family.

 

Author Websites and Profiles
Rusty Blackwood Website
Rusty Blackwood Amazon Profile
Rusty Blackwood Author Profile on Smashwords

Connect With Rusty Blackwood on Social Media
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account
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Presented By Cat Lyon’s Reading and Writing Den

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More Amazing Amazon Book Reviews for Both Reads By Author, Joe Siccardi …

Hello and Welcome Avid Readers, Friends, and Visitors,

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Meet a fantastic storyteller, writer, and an amazing Author, Joe Siccardi …

Joe has been writing essay-style spiritual-reflection books for a while now. His first debut book titled “Heaven Shining Through” has been garnishing amazing book reviews recently, as we know as authors, it takes a while for the “book buzz” to get around to readers when we release our “works” to the world.

Joe has released his second new book that is also gaining exceptional Amazon and Goodreads reviews as well and has only been out for a short time.

This tells me two things, the first is my working for and with him in marketing his books is working! Lol. And second, avid readers are really enjoying his books! So here is a little more about him and about his amazing books everyone will ENJOY …

~Cat

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Best-selling writer and author, Joe Siccardi is a prolific storyteller of inspirational wisdom filled books about life. His first offering and debut release came in March 2018 titled “Heaven Shining Through” claiming rave reviews by book reviewers and book bloggers alike.

The author released his second book in November 2018 tilted “Wisdom From A Father: One dad’s thoughts about life.” A beautiful collection of essays about love, life, marriage and raising his children. With a dash of wit and fatherly life lessons. Both books are available on Amazon Books, Amazon Kindle, and many fine online bookstores.

He is a graduate of Dominican College of Blauvelt (NY) and holds a BA degree in Liberal Arts. Joe began his career with Paterson (NJ) News and continued for the next 52 years in a variety of positions as editorial writer, editor, and publisher. He now writes and publishes his works as a new Indie Author. He has an official website he called wisdomfromafather.com and shares all about life and fatherhood.

The storyteller says it well. Joe states, “I’m the ordinary Joe walking along this journey called life and sharing it with you.” And he has the life experience to back this statement as a proud father of five children, 18 grandchildren, and three great-granddaughters.

He has gathered all his life and work experiences from living in many places on East Coast and Midwest like Paterson, Totowa, Newton and Ogdensburg, NJ; Belvidere, IL; Toledo, OH; Washington, DC; Laurel, MD; and Seneca Falls and Willard (Romulus), NY.

When not writing Joe enjoys travel, cooking, and spending time with all his grown children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He also enjoys pleasure reading some of his favorite authors and writers like James Patterson, Tom Clancy, and his literary wish is a meeting with icon author Mr. Stephen King … Joe Siccardi currently resides in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine.

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Wisdom From A Father: One dad's thoughts on life      Heaven Shining Through

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Review and AboutWisdom From a Father’  New Release:

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ABOUT THE BOOK:

“I’m just that ordinary Joe walking on the path of life …and sharing it with you. There are joys.”

There are tribulations. There are reflections. There is everyday life. In each essay, I try to convey a recognition of a greater Power who colors my perspective. My comments are always filtered through the lens of my Judeo-Christian values and largely based on 40 years of marriage, raising five children, and life …

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Amazon Review – 5 Stars!


Cat Lyon
5.0 out of 5 stars Heartwarming, Wisdom, and Funny Stories …

December 13, 2018 – Format: Paperback

I was honored and privy to receiving an early copy of this “Gem” before it released by the author …

What a beautiful treasure trove of wisdom filled heartwarming nuggets in this book! “Wisdom From A Father offers a little bit of everything about life from the heart of a faithful father and now a grandfather, as told by an uplifting storyteller and the Author, Joe Siccardi.

His writing style is flawless as he shares about marriage, raising his children, and now his grandchildren, with many life and spiritual lessons. Tales set and laid out in little story essays with both purpose and reason through aspects of life humor, sadness, loss, meaningful, spiritual and touching.

Not to spoil any of what is offered to the reader, some of my favorite essays are ‘MAD MAX,’ ‘FATHER SAYS which opens the book, and ‘Miracle.’ I really enjoyed them all. Many have faith lessons as well, but not to an extreme. This book will be appreciated and enjoyed by all!

Moreover, I think especially for those men who are now new dads who will get a glimpse of what “Fatherhood” is going to be all about and how life events and “oh, just the little things” about raising your children at times can be both challenging and humorous too.

The most “touching” you will read is the beautiful memories of Karen … I won’t say much more about this but to say … Do yourself a favor readers; DO NOT hesitate to read this one. I highly suggest this one to everyone …

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Reviews and About ‘Heaven Shining Through’ New Release:


“Samantha is dreading her return home. Throughout her life, she had a rocky relationship with her mother – and now her mother is all she has left.”

Through a nostalgic look back, Samantha recognizes the presence of God in an ordinary life. She learns more about herself as a wife and mother who has had her share of sorrow and blessings.

As her faith increases, she is able to see her mother through new eyes, leading to reconciliation …and is reminded of that every time she sees Heaven Shining Through.

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Amazon Rave Reviews:

January 12, 2019
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Though Heaven Shining Through is a shorter read, it is packed full of wisdom about both life and love.

Highlights:

The Narration
Though the majority of the book is told in a flashback of Samantha’s life up until mid-adulthood, the story never hits a boring spot. I devoured this book in one sitting. It is extremely rare for me to enjoy a book that relies on telling more than showing through actions or dialogue, but the author has a true gift for storytelling. He completely captured his characters’ unique traits and weaved a tale I won’t soon forget.

The Romance
The romance involves an unmarried couple who end up giving in to lust after remaining pure for a year of dating. The couple soon realizes that they should get married instead of continuing on in lust, so they begin their lives together in a way that honors God. The main character, Samantha, and her husband, Chad, have great chemistry and were adorable to read about. My favorite aspect about the romance was that it is portrayed realistically, as many Christian novels sugarcoat the fact that even Christians slip up and give in to sexual temptation before marriage. The novel emphasizes that we can find redemption in Christ no matter what our pasts hold, and that’s a message we need more of in Christian literature instead of judging couples for the slightest things or touches.

Relationship Between Samantha and Her Mom
The author perfectly portrays a criticizing mother and how damaging that can be on a child. Samantha and her mother have a strained relationship from the beginning, and it shapes Samantha’s decisions growing up. This is a fantastic reminder to Christian parents not to be so caught up on what a child is doing wrong that they forget to see what the child is doing right.

Overall, I applaud the author for tackling these subjects. Again, we definitely need bolder Christian authors in the industry. Highly Suggest this one! 

~Anonymously Allyson

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December 28, 2018
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Samantha and her mother do not have the best of relationships. This is a fast-paced story that gives the reader a sudden and deep romance, a deep loss of a husband, the journey of grief for Samantha and her kids, and then later, a last-minute relationship with her mother.

I loved this story. The romance of Chad and Samantha was beautiful. The loss she faces tore my heart out. The ending and the relationship she builds with her mother bringING this book a tender ending. I will be honest and say I was bawling for about half of this book. It is so well written and so touching I couldn’t help but shed the tears. The relationship between Samantha and her mom hits home with me deeply. I can relate greatly to her and her feelings as a young girl and later on in life as a mother.

Overall, this book was short and very heart-wrenching. People need to read this but don’t forget the tissues.    ~Boundless Book Reviews Stormi


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One More Amazing Review For”Heaven:”

4 out 5-stars: Jan. 10th, 2019 –
By: Nay Denise reviewed Heaven Shining Through

Emotional and Beautiful
This was a great read.

I enjoyed Samantha and seeing her life. She dealt with hardships at home, fell in love with a guy unexpectedly and was blessed with 2 beautiful kids. Samantha is a strong woman who pushed through all the loses. She may not have focused on God, but you could see Him working in her life and focusing on her. Chad was an awesome guy from start to finish to Samantha. He always did right and apologized even when he did nothing wrong. Samantha’s father was a loving man. Samantha’s mother was a hard woman.

There were times I wanted to jump through the page and pop her upside the head, but as the ending drew near I began to love her. She may have been cold to Samantha, but her heart was pure. Wish she showed it more. I adored JR and Kate-D — they were amazing kids and seemed to have grown into phenomenal adults towards the end. This story brought tears to my eyes and made me smile. Totally recommend this. Great one-sitter read that will leave you with a warm feeling in your heart.

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HAPPY NEW YEAR YOU – Brand Yourself For 2019! Should Our Brand Be All The Same? Guest Jason From Strong Social Tells Us.

Happy New Year’s Eve and Welcome All! Brand Yourself in 2019!

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Brand Voice – Should It Remain the Same Across All Social Networks

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How is your brand personality determined?

It is largely determined by the words you use in communication, as well as the kind of sentences you write. Your brand voice reveals whether your brand is corporate, academic, deadpan, grave, serious, witty, funny, clever, and so on.

When defining a company’s brand voice, the problem is that rigid guidelines can stifle you. Your brand’s personality has to appeal to different people in different locations, so like a human personality, it has to retain some elasticity. Like, a central character that can convey a message in different tones. For example, your blog posts may appear enthusiastic and professional, while the promotional copy for your social media shares should probably be less enthusiastic.

Here’s what you should know about ways of using your brand voice across different social networks.

1. Instagram

Instagram is the place for B2B and B2C companies. On this platform, you can drive brand engagement and awareness with positive visuals and copy. Thus, on Instagram, you can use the classic marketing tone.

On Instagram, the line that divides branded content and UGC (user-generated content) is quite blurry. Also, it is more challenging to spot Ads, especially from influencers with undisclosed relationships with brands. When it comes to hashtags, Instagram is quite friendly towards the use of hashtags. According to SproutSocial, about 80% of all users follow at least one brand, while 7 out of 10 hashtags on Instagram are branded. It means that you should be as clear as possible about what you want your followers to do – click the link in Bio, tag a friend, or swipe up for a free trial if you are running ads.

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2. Facebook

Facebook is an exciting opportunity for any brand being that it’s the most extensive social media network in the world. With 2.27 billion monthly active users, it’s very challenging to stand out and maximize your reach. You need a distinct brand voice and identity.

What makes an effective Facebook copy? It should be accessible, familiar, and slightly informal. Unlike Twitter or Instagram, Facebook’s user group is more intergenerational. That’s why the emotion that dominates the platform is nostalgia. The content that can recall the “golden years” of your readers resonates best, whether you want to reach out to Millennials recalling the 1990s or Baby Boomers.

On the other hand, if you can’t appeal to nostalgic content, you can use particular calls to action, such as – join the debate, develop an opinion, and inform yourself. Have the copy tell your audience that there’s a larger conversation happening without them. Facebook audiences want to be entertained, so hit them with your most potent and most human content.

4. Twitter

Active Twitter copy is quick and witty. There is so much conversation happening so fast that brands often can’t move quickly enough to keep up. It is the platform of instant information, and people there want to know what’s going on this very second. Twitter is no place for old news. That’s why you should use it to experiment with your brand voice because Twitter users appreciate a more daring and experimental voice. If you have any humorous and funny content where you’re trying out some jokes, you should use Twitter as your experimental ground.

If all you’re sharing are dull press releases, people most likely won’t follow you. Better have something funny or something valuable to add to a conversation.

5. LinkedIn

According to Pew Research Center, LinkedIn is mostly used by people in the 30-49 age range. Most of them are college graduates in urban areas. The number of LinkedIn users increased to 500 million between the years 2016 and 2017. Being a professionally-oriented social network, people go there to look for jobs or to offer them, as well as share valuable content. That means that your LinkedIn copy should take the readers straight to the point, without beating around the bush. The competition is a lot less fierce than on Facebook, but you’ll still need to give a fresh and unique angle to your material to attract your audience.

To conclude, your brand voice does have to stay coherent across all social media channels. However, every social network is specific and attracts different people. The best brand voice strategy is to have an inner brand voice, but deliver your messages and engage in slightly different tones that resonate the best on each social network.

So in the coming in NEW YEAR, make sure you Brand Yourself effectively throughout Media and Social Media TOO!

Please visit my friend Jason of StrongSocial for more amazing tips and articles all of 2019! Cat