Featured Guest

A Triple Book Review Extravaganza for Author Cheri Vause & her New Novel~The Truth and Nothing but Lies.

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Book Review Post, Featured Guest , , , , , , ,

Hello Friends, Readers, and Welcome Visitors,

 

As a book and social media promoter, it’s more than a full-time job to keep all my book clients happy, and make sure their awesome new books and novels get noticed in the large sea of new reads. And as you know, I have a lot of reading to do, so it’s it hard to steal time to read just for the pleasure of it, and the genres I enjoy to read. But sometimes, as a book should do, you get surprised by a book genre you normally wouldn’t read. That was the case with Cheri’s new novel.
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The Truth and Nothing But Lies by Cheri Vause: Book Cover
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My Book Review For Author, Cheri Vause:

That’s how I felt about reading a new novel by, Author Cheri Vause, titled; The Truth and Nothing but Lies.

I’m normally not a Mystery/Thriller reader often, but I have to say this was not only a page turner? It took on a very debated and intense topic in this riveting story. A FBI agent with not so good intentions to get a step up, and the story is set in the beautiful Pacific Northwest Coastal town of Astoria, Oregon, where I’ve visited many times myself. All stirred into this wonderfully written novel and story, without giving much away, is also a hungry reporter, a doctor and a missing client of his, and after abortion clinic bombings & suicide, comes the CIA to join the mix. Greene is very confused of his part in his job at the FBI to make it more interesting, as his father helps pull some strings for this current case he’s assigned.
I can tell you honestly in the beginning of the book I got a little lost, as it does move around from one plot to another, but that’s on me, as I have adult attention deficit, but then the story grabs a hold of you and doesn’t let you go with twists around every corner! As the case builds, evidence seems becomes non-existent, with more abortion bombings, thankfully no one in them at the time. I do have to say, Cheri is a very technical writer, and as you’ll see when you read this fantastic novel, she takes her job as a mystery writer very seriously. It shows in this novel. I have the pleasure of knowing Cheri, so I know many of the events in her book are from actual real events, as she had worked in this field. So she had first hand knowledge. All I can say about this novel? It’s worth your time to purchase and read.
Cheri is a very brave woman to write, base, and share all sides of this highly and religiously debated issue of ‘Pro-life or Pro-choice’ topic. And Cheri does a supreme job of weaving those issues into her book. That is when you really have taken the step as a real writer, when you’re not afraid to raise awareness with your craft as writer and author to use important issues like abortion in one’s work. KUDOS! I give this Novel a 5 Star Review!!

“Cheri’s novel has some more good reviews coming in and wanted to share as, I’m not the only one who enjoyed this fantastic mystery novel! Here is another wonderful review. It is from a very respected ‘Book Reviewer’ at Crystal Book Reviews” http://crystalbookreviews.blogspot.com ”

Crystal Book Reviews: Sunday, October 5, 2014
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The Truth and Nothing but Lies
(Cheri Vause, Author/Novelist)
Chéri is a theologian, a photographer, and an author. She is the mother of two sets of twins born on the same day fourteen years apart. Presently, she lives on a small ranch in the heart of Texas with her husband and a coydog named Scully.

BOOK REVIEW FOR:

The Truth and Nothing But Lies. Cheri Vause. GWL Publishing. May 2014. 329 pp., e-book.

FBI Agent Grant Greene is a disillusioned detective who is on the verge of quitting when he’s assigned, after his father pull strings to get him leverage on a case that could catapult his career beyond its present inertia, to a case involving the bombing of an abortion clinic in Astoria, Oregon. A reporter, Hector Rodriguez, is hot on this case as it might bring him the kind of public recognition to advance his journalistic position as well. 

Dr. Sanjay Kumar is supposedly the object of pro-life activists, yet something doesn’t seem quite right about the predictability of such a profile even beyond the fact that he botches more abortions than the ones he performs successfully. Ruined lives are more the norm of what he leaves behind him, physically, mentally and emotionally.

Then the bombing of other clinics and the mysterious disappearance of one of the doctor’s clients, Lara, brings the plaintiff deeper with involvement of the CIA and other nefarious characters into the mix.

Add to that some attempted shootings and the fact that no one seems to be able to provide actual evidence makes Greene realize that something larger than anti-abortion supporters is running these events, as well as the fact that the bombings occur when no one is present in the clinics to be hurt.

No spoilers here! But be assured, not a page turns but something new and intensely dangerous is occurring in this mystery/thriller novel based on actual events. Abortion is a highly charged issue and those who take one side or the other feel very strongly about the strength of position which translates to some deep pockets involved here that have political as well as moral motivations.

Cheri Vause has written a riveting novel about the violence and terror behind an issue that has divided and still divides Americans to this day.  Nicely constructed, Ms. Vause! …

A Special Sneak Peek Review Of The Night Shadow ~ Book Series  & Pre-order info
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The Night Shadow by Chéri Vausé (Oct 14, 2014) – Kindle eBook

“Now a very special treat for all the readers”. Now that you know Author, Cheri Vause’s current new novel is a great read worth your time, we have a Sneak Peek Review of her long anticipated book series coming out, maybe as soon as this month titled; ‘The Night Shadow’ series.
A good friend and fellow author in her own right, Marilyn Fowler was chosen by Lyon Book & Social Media Promotions & Cheri Vause to read an advanced copy of book one! Marilyn was kind enough to share her sneak peek review on her wonderful blog: http://SelfHelpByMarilyn.wordpress.com & gave me the OK to share it here with all of you. As authors, a constant challenge is getting our readers to come back after reading our books and leave us a review. So when they do, we SO greatly appreciate them. So Cheri is one step ahead of the game with her new book series with this special sneak peek Review …

The Night Shadow

From the first page, The Night Shadow grabs you with instant fascination, as a serial killer’s work pulls you into this journey of intrigue, adding surprise at every turn. Just when you think you’ve solved the mystery, the author cleverly throws another curve. The story is rife with psychological elements, putting you inside each character’s mind, the motives for suspicious behaviors, misinformation, and murder. As the journey progresses, characters change their masks. Good? Bad? Innocent? Guilty? Suspense rises. And the story takes on new tones along the way.
The road to discovery is traveled by two private investigators, former police officers, pursuing the crafty and illusive killer. Esther and Mac are in their familiar realm of activity, but now with more latitude to cut corners and surpass accepted methods of pursuit. They encounter many clues, lies, and dead ends, but are driven by any means to expose the devious killer and stop the seemingly senseless murders. As they attempt to unravel the pieces, their romantic relationship struggles to survive, each with their own inner pain to deal with. Esther’s over-involvement with the case becomes a reflection of her personal inner turmoil brought to the surface, and plays an important part in the ongoing turn of events.
As the story unfolds, the author guides you from one character, one suspenseful event, one emotional experience to another ¾ and another r¾ and another, changing lives in the process. In places, the story seems to approach resolution, but then takes an unexpected turn, and the journey moves on. And everything might be a clue. But many clues are misleading, and you will finally be brought to a most astounding ending.

Summary

In this book, the author presents a fascinating chain of events and, given the many characters involved, you will need to get to know them, for they will turn up again with meaning in the story.  Final resolution on this intriguing journey will invite your re-assessment of where you’ve been, the clues, the surprises, the struggles, the emotional ups and downs you’ve experienced. And you will re-live much of it before you can put the book down. And you will feel very satisfied and gratified.
A read you won’t forget!
I wish you a fascinating journey immersed in Cheri’s new book series coming to Amazon Soon.
Author, Marilyn Fowler
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Special Thank You Messages from the Author:

        Since embarking on my second career as an author, I’ve had the absolute delight to meet a number of wonderful people who have followed my offerings on my website, and those of you who have read my books. However, there are some I haven’t had the pleasure to correspond with, like Viviane Crystal who wrote this lovely review. I want to remedy that here.

     Writing is a tough business, and, upon many occasions, it’s frustrating. It eats away your time with your loved ones, and ideas attack when you least expect it, often keeping you up until the wee hours of the morning wrestling with them. It can even cause great anxiety when new books are released. Will it be rejected by the reading public? Or, will it be well received? If your ego is the size of a mustard seed, it never seems to grow into that huge bush the scripture so aptly discusses about faith, so you are constantly surprised when someone actually likes your work. And it is right that it doesn’t grow into a huge gnarled mess, annoying your family members, friends, and the reading public with its outlandish posturing. Egos should rightly remain the size of a pea or less.

     With that in mind, I am surprised, and astonished quite a lot. Ms. Crystal liked my work. So did the reviewers on Amazon. It’s a lovely surprise, and one that I constantly feel I must live up to as I continue to write. And I hope that I die before I stop being surprised, and that I continue to work even harder to deserve such praise.
Thank you, Ms. Crystal. Thank you, Amazon reviewers. You are the best.

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My new mystery, The Night Shadow, is about to be released. I have had the great pleasure to offer it for a preview to a select few. Ms. Marilyn Fowler was given an advanced PDF of my novel a few weeks ago. Not only did Ms. Fowler read it, but she gave it a beautiful review. It never ceases to amaze me when people like my work, but when they say such incredible things about the words I’ve agonized over for months, I start to sob.
Yes, I’m a huge sober. I cry when my publisher says she loves my work. I shed copious tears when the art department of my publishing house understands my stories so well they create remarkable covers. I tear-up when I read the Press Release. You can imagine how I’m reduced to a puddle when I receive a review, especially one like Ms. Fowler wrote.Yes, I’m a puddle, Ms. Fowler. And every time I thought about it, I sobbed. Thank you. You’ve made my day, my year, my life. Bless you my new friend! ~ *Cheri*

*Well friends and readers, there you have it. Some pretty interesting reviews for a wonderful, and in my opinion, a prolific writer! I believe Cheri has along career ahead of her! I hope you’ll come visit again in about 3 weeks after her new book series, The Night Shadow releases as I will be having a fun contest for all the readers of The Night Shadow! You may just win yourself a Signed Copy of Cheri’s book and more!

I want to Thank Crystal & Marilyn for sharing their reviews with all of us along with my own! Us authors and writers love to know what readers think of our hard work within a craft we love* …
Much Happiness & Blessings All,
Lyon Book & Social Media Promotions By: Author, Catherine Lyon

http://www.amazon.com/Truth-Nothing-But-Lies/dp/0992883601

Novelist Carl Baker and His Book is Honored to be sold at Shakespeare and Company, Paris France.

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

Hello and Welcome Friends to Lyon Media & Book Promotions.
Where readers come to meet new Authors and Reads!

There is a quaint bookstore on the left bank of the Seine river, just across from the world-famous Notre Dame Cathedral called, Shakespeare and Company that’s been a popular bookstore for Parisians, writers, poets and tourists alike in Paris, France. Since it’s opening in 1951 by George Whitman, the bookstore has become an iconic historical institution.
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(George Whitman at Shakespeare & Company about 1980)

And I’m happy to announce that my client, and good friend Carl Baker and Marc Heberden has been honored with the new novel being sold at Shakespeare and Company located at:  37 rue de la Bucherie Latin Quarter, 75005 Paris …
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Some History Of Shakespeare and Company:
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In 1919, an American expatriate in Paris named Sylvia Beach set up a bookstore slash small publishing house slash lending library in rue Dupuytren and called it Shakespeare and Company. It was back then a very small place, and it functioned as an ordinary bookstore. It was later moved to rue de l’Odéon, where it had a bigger space. It was not long after the names that are now looked upon as literary giants, the names we always mention in Literature classes, gathered there to write and read the books that were available.
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Beach’s excellent taste in books was noted by many people, and it was she who made available to readers the books that were otherwise banned in the United States and the United Kingdom. Because of the people who gathered there and the books that people came to read, Shakespeare and Company soon became the center of literary culture. Among the people who frequented the place were Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ezra Pound, and James Joyce, just to name a few who enjoyed spending his time at this bookstore so much that he considered it his office.
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The bookstore remained open until the year 1941, when the Germans occupied France. Sadly after several attempts at reviving the bookstore, it never again became open for business.
Then walks in Mr. George Whitman …
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"Shakespeare and Company" store, Paris, 2004
(The bookstore today).
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In 1964, after Sylvia Beach’s death, Whitman renamed his store “Shakespeare and Company” in tribute to the original, describing the name as “a novel in three words”.  He called the venture “a socialist utopia masquerading as a bookstore”. Customers have included the likes of Henry Miller, Anaïs Nin, and Richard Wright. The bookstore has sleeping facilities, with 13 beds, and Whitman claimed that as many as 40,000 people have slept there over the years.

George Whitman died at the age of 98 on December 14, 2011. His daughter, Sylvia Beach Whitman, now runs the store. Regular activities are Sunday tea, poetry readings and writers’ meetings. The four Shakespeare and Company bookstores in New York City, which opened starting in 1981, are not affiliated with the Paris store.
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Now your most likely wondering why I bring up this iconic historical site right?
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Now enter, Novelist Carl Baker, and his new novel release titled, “14 Days In July” …
He and his co-writer Marc Heberden are thrilled that their novel was accepted to be sold in the Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris, France!

It only seems fitting for the novel to be sold there since the book is packed with historical places about The French Revolution, and the Fall of Bastille. I myself just finished reading Carl’s novel, and will be writing my own review here on my blog soon, but I wanted to announce this very important accomplishment for my friends and client, Carl Baker and Marc Heberden, who is also an award-winning journalist himself. If you have not read their novel as of yet, the reviews are fantastic, as they should be, because I really enjoyed this novel. I’m normally not a history reader, but this book keeps your captivated with every turn of the pages. And there are some ‘secrets of history’ you won’t find in your average school history book!
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14 Days in July
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About The Book:
1 July 1789, Paris – Two weeks before the Revolution

France is undergoing a political upheaval unlike anything it has known before. Louis XVI is using savage mercenary forces and food blockages, to bring the people to heel. The country is a powder keg, and Paris is the fuse. In the midst of what could become bloody chaos, shadowy people including the sinister and brutal chief of the Paris police-discover that a young Parisian laundress, Michèle Duvallier, whose fiancé is imprisoned for his political activities, knows a deadly, ancient secret that could shake France’s monarchy to its core. Michèle finds herself the object of a murderous manhunt. Her imprisoned fiancé’s citizen’s group, now led by his brother, is being chased from one hiding place to another. It is only during the fall of the Bastille that she learns why so many powerful people are hunting for her, but as well the shocking identity of who has been betraying them ….
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September 1654, Burgundy – 135 years before the Revolution
A good-natured young man, an orphan, is mysteriously imprisoned with grotesque instructions to conceal his identity in such as way as to ensure he is to be forgotten for all time ….
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The man in the iron mask was not a pure invention of Alexandre Dumas. The rumor of the existence of twin boys being switched, one of whom was to become Louis XIV, had been speculated on for well over a hundred years by many high sources including Voltaire, who secretly told friends he had seen the man unmasked, and saw he was the king’s twin. But what Dumas, and no one else, wrote about, was the even more dangerous rumor that there was not only a switch, but as well … another lineage ….
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A Wonderful Book Review:

For a New Author, this book is a Master piece … 5 Stars!
This review is from: 14 Days in July (Paperback)

I usually do not read Historical Fiction, but this one stood out, the cover graphs are awesome, and the story line is a real a page turner. With every turn of the page it gets better and better, the characters seem to come alive. there are so many twists and turns , you do not want to put it down. It is a combination of action with some romance thrown in. My favorite Character is Michele and the secret she holds…great reading , waiting for the sequel ……
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“So if you happen to be traveling to Paris, France and you love rare and hard to find books, new reads, and just need to grab a map of the historical sites to see while you’re visiting?
Then a visit to Shakespeare and Company bookstore is where you need to start”.
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So many congrats to Novelist, Carl Baker and Marc Heberden for their novel receiving the honor of being a part of the bookstores unique collection of reads! Their novel can also be purchased globally at these fine stores:
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Boomarang Books ~ Australia
Virgin Books ~ USA/UK/France
Barnes and Noble ~ USA/UK/Canada
Amazon Books ~ USA/UK/Canada
B. Dalton Books ~ USA/UK
Village Books Bellingham, WA, USA
Posman Books ~ New York City
Strand Book Stores ~ New York City
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14 Days in July by Carl Baker: Book Cover
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Happy Reading All!
Lyon Media & Book Promotions
Catherine Townsend-Lyon, Author


“WordPress, We Have Lost A Friend From Our Blog Community, I Have Lost A Beautiful Friend.” A Re-share & Special Tribute To A Mother, Wife, Blogger, Author, and Advocate~Rhonda Sellers Elkins”

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Featured Guest, My Mental Illness Writings , , ,

I have been in shock, mourning, and very heart-broken since yesterday morning. I learned through my Author Facebook page that we have lost an “ANGEL” …

A wonderful friend, author, writer, WordPress blogger, and advocate about mental illness has passed away. I really could not believe what I was reading when I saw the Facebook post by the daughter of a woman who has been such an inspiration to me in my own battle with severe depression, and mental disorders. We had just spoke last in April as I wanted to do a nice book and author spotlight for her on my Book/Media blog. I wanted to help her with promoting her new book that had come out in March 2014.

She had such a big heart, and a beautiful soul, and always was encouraging to keep pushing forward in life, as she was still processing the loss of her own daughter to suicide.
“Rhonda Sellers Elkins” whose blog here on WordPress: http://welding81.wordpress.com
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So as a ‘Tribute & Memoir’ to the devastating loss I feel, I share the Author & Book Spotlight I had done for her a few months back. The world is a little less “Bright” without you my good friend.
You are going to be missed for a very long time. I wish I could have been there for you like you were always there for me. The Spotlight in her Honor …

UPDATE: There is a Special Remembrance for Rhonda up on Facebook, a Memorial Page for all her to go to and show love & support. Lets let her family know HOW SPECIAL she was to many out here in Cyber-Space! 9/2/2014 …
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The permanent memorial page for Rhonda Sellers Elkins is:

https://www.facebook.com/inmemoryofrhondasellerselkins

Thank you to the now 300 people who attended this memorial event.

In Memory of Rhonda Sellers Elkins
Community
In Memory of Rhonda Sellers Elkins
Liked
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“My Special Guest Author Interview Is With “Rhonda Sellers-Elkins” And Her New Book Release Of, “My Bright Shining Star”…

Posted on April 30, 2014 by

Originally posted on Lyon Media & Book Promotions~By Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon:
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Hello And Welcome Friends, Readers, And New Visitors,

It’s my pleasure to share with you a good friend of mine who just become a “New Author”!  Please meet Author, Rhonda Sellers-Elkins and her new book release titled; “My Bright Shining Star:” A Mothers True Story Of Brilliance, Love & Suicide….

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Rhonda and I met through WordPress where we both have our blogs. I remember the first time I came across her blog, and her story about the loss of her beautiful daughter Kaitlyn. I was so inspired by her words, and how she was able to share such a painful experience with all of us through her blog posts that I became to admire her and her courage. We visited each others blogs many times and quickly became fast friends. Her daughters story really touched me, and many of her blog readers. I could relate to her feelings about the loss of her daughter,  as I had two failed attempted suicides myself from undiagnosed bipolar depression and a gambling addiction.

Her sharing taught me to see what others who are left behind from such a tragic event feel and go through when you lose a child.

I don’t know if I ever mentioned that to Rhonda before, but sharing her story of how to move on, to get through each day with keeping your head up and courage in your heart, I have learned so much from Rhonda. Now, in keeping Kaitlyn’s beautiful memory alive through her new book, I know this has been a “Special” accomplishment for Rhonda, and a “Tribute to Kaitlyn”…
Here is a little more about Rhonda and her new book!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Rhonda Elkins lost her 23-year-old daughter Kaitlyn to suicide 4-11-13. The fact that Kaitlyn took her own life was horrible enough, but the fact that she never displayed signs of depression her entire life made it even harder to understand. She was a 3rd year medical student and was doing very well in school. After Kaitlyn’s death Rhonda began writing about her grief in her blog and after a time decided to write a book about her daughter to tell the story of her daughter and to bring out the fact that there can be hidden depression in highly achieving young people, a fact she did not know until her daughter’s death.

Rhonda lives in North Carolina with her husband Allyn. They have two cats, Dagny, and Kaitlyn’s cat Gatito who they adopted when Kaitlyn died. They also have another daughter, Stephanie Alford, and a son-in-law, Steve Alford, who also live in North Carolina. Rhonda is a registered nurse, but at the time of this book’s publication has not returned to work since Kaitlyn’s death. She is an advocate for suicide prevention.
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ABOUT HER  BOOK: http://www.amazon.com/My-Bright-Shining-Star-Brilliance-ebook/dp/B00JBMLXTA/ref=tmm_kin_swatchh_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1398705187
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To all that knew her, Kaitlyn Elkins was a happy, intelligent, compassionate and extremely talented young medical student with a bright future ahead. However, beyond her warm smile and string of impressive achievements lurked a dark secret-depression; something she hid so well from all those that knew and loved her. This is the story about a mother’s quest to find some answers as to how her daughter, who seemed so happy on the outside, could hide such a dark, horrible depression that ultimately lead to her suicide.
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It is a story about her wonderful daughter’s life, the lives she touched, the search for answers, the stigma of mental illness, the great love and deep bond they shared.  The book also incorporates insightful experiences from other depression sufferers, contributions from some of Kaitlyn’s friends, and views from medical professionals.  This heartrending memoir of love also serves as a caution to parents, teachers, counselors, and young people that depression can lurk among the high achieving, that they hide it expertly, and if not reported and treated, can lead to suicide.  It is a warning to everyone.
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Now here is what Readers are saying in All 5 Star Reviews!
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This review is from: My Bright Shining Star: A Mother’s True Story of Brilliance, Love and Suicide (Paperback)   Hope in the wake of loss, March 26, 2014
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“Though a beautiful life was cut extremely short, this story of a mother’s love uses the pain of that loss to provide both a beacon of hope to others who suffer from depression as well as provide warning signs to those who might not be familiar with depression themselves. I especially loved reading the personal stories from outsiders, most notably other medical students. The deadly nature of depression is a very real thing, and it goes unnoticed so frequently. It is my sincere hope that those who read this book will be able to see that there is always another option and that there are others who are suffering from the same affliction. It is not something that should be ashamed of, and the pain that results from the loss of a loved one is unbearable. Please, give this book a chance to touch your heart.”
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This review is from: My Bright Shining Star: A Mother’s True Story of Brilliance, Love & Suicide (Kindle Edition)Heart-rending, beautiful, and important,  March 29, 2014

“This book is a mother’s heart-rending, beautiful tribute to her daughter. I wish there was no need for this book, but given the circumstances, this story is important on both the personal and community levels. Still in the depths of grief, the author felt compelled to speak out about the stigma of mental illness. Her daughter never asked for help or gave any indication that she felt suicidal. I know that this book will help many people speak up and speak out. Kaitlyn’s brilliance will live on in her family’s love.”

*As many of you know when I have an “Author as my Guest,” I only ask them TWO questions of them. Here is my interview questions I asked of Rhonda, and her answers and thoughts*…
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1.)  Since we follow each other from your beautiful blog, I know more than my readers about your life. But what made you decide to write and share your personal story in book form?

 From the very day I found out about Kaitlyn’s death, I shared her death of Facebook to let her friends know who I had no other way to contact.  From that moment on, I got a great deal of responses and condolences and stories about Kaitlyn from her friends and many people I knew and did not know.  After that, in my horrible grief, I had no outlet for my grief except for crying almost nonstop and going through her things and touching them and remembering the wonderful girl who was my daughter for 23 years. I began to post on Facebook about my daughter and my horrible grief and confusion about why such an exceptional young woman could take her life.
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You see, she was brilliant, sweet, very accomplished, graduated valedictorian of her high school class, graduated summa cum laud from Campbell University in two and a half years (instead of the usual 4 years it takes) with a degree in biology. After a few months she was accepted into Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, NC, to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a doctor. She was happy.  Always said and seemed to love medical school and was doing well in it, as well as her busy life.  She kept her body fit by eating healthy, exercising and running. She had run a half a full marathon only months before. She never showed signs of depression in her entire life and was a model daughter and student.
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Then on 4-11-13 she took her own life, leaving a note to us that she had been depressed all her life and hid it from us to protect us from it. She never told anyone and never sought help. So after writing on Facebook I started a blog devoted to writing about my daughter and that horrible thing that took her life, depression, by way of suicide.  Not long after that, I decided to write a book in the hopes that Kaitlyn’s story will help those people out there that are like my daughter; highly driven, intelligent, but hiding a deep depression that may take their life if not treated.
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So many highly achieving young people never seek help for their depression and never admit to it for a variety of reasons, the stigma of mental illness being one of them.   It’s also for parents, counselors and teachers so they will know of this often silent killer of our young people.  My book is to honor my daughter, tell of her life and suicide, and to provide some insights into how such a thing could happen. It is also a warning.
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2.)  Even though your new book has only been out a short time, has there been any one thing that has surprised you since the release?
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There has not been anything that has really surprised me, but I am very pleased about the very positive reviews that it has received so far.  I was hoping so very much that it would do what I intended my book to do, and by reading the reviews it seems to be doing so.

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A Tribute To Rhonda & her Beautiful Daughter “Kaitlyn Elkins & Author, Rhonda Elkins*
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My Facebook Share from yesterday 8/31/2014

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Author Catherine Townsend-Lyon
I’m so sad. To the Elkins Family, my thoughts, prayers, and much love to all of you today, and will mourn with you from a distance. <3 <3 …
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I’m so, so devastated. I can not wrap my brain around this. I had talked to Rhonda not to long ago as I had done a “New Book & Author Spotlight” on my blog for her. We were like “Kindred Spirits” as we shared & battled many of the same disorders.
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She was always the first to comment on all my new recovery WordPress blog posts with encouraging words, friendship, and loving support. I hope she knew how many of us Authors and Bloggers out here just loved her so much!!! <3 Her sweet southern style, and that accent was adorable! I’m just at such a loss for words, and my heart is breaking.Rhonda my sweet friend, I hope you knew how much I loved and cared for you. And just know that YOUR Bright and Shinning Star will live on inside me until my last breath. I know you have peace and serenity with the lord, and in the loving arms of “K”…. R.I. P. my beautiful friend. Thank you for giving me that little piece of your heart <3 to keep me at peace until we meet again. We will meet again my Sweet….Author Catherine Townsend-Lyon
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All my love, thoughts and prayers to The Elkins Family and Friends. She touched so many people with her caring, love and inspiration. She truly will never be forgotten, … I miss you already!

Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon ~ Glendale, Arizona

 

 

“As David Says, Sometimes All We Need Is Love”! Give It A Thought…

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

Hello Readers, Friends, and Welcome New Friends,

One of my Twitter followers has an awesome “Thought Provoking” web site that I receive emails of inspiration from, and is called; “Give It A Thought ~ By David Duane Wilson” http://giveitathought.com/ …

“This Site is Dedicated to Helping you Improve Yourself Through Self Help Techniques and Positive Thinking”

Now David and I have followed each other for sometime, and I have to say, if you have not visited his helpful and inspirational web site yet, then your missing out! He maybe the best “Self-Help Writer” I know. Here is a share of the most resent email post he sent me, and wanted to share it with all of you. Now you can have a little inspiration in your day too!
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All You Need Is Love
          
The Beatles sing, All You Need Is Love.  Have you ever thought about what those lyrics mean?  What they mean is that you should not only receive all the love the world has to offer, but that you should also give love.

Some people do not understand the meaning or definition of love.  Love is admiration, caring and respect.  That means admiring without envy, showing concerns for other’s wellbeing and giving respect with no expectations in return.

To admire without envy is easily accomplished.  You look at successful person’s accomplishments with an inquisitive eye as to how did they succeed.  What qualities, virtues and behaviors did they use to reach this position of admiration?  Inquire, for you will want to emulate them.  The one thing that you do not want is to become jealous or envious of them.  You’re tasked to rise to a position of admiration of your own.

Caring, the genuine concern for another’s wellbeing is foundational to love.  When you care, you will go the extra mile or take the extra step to make things right for someone.  Because you care, you are there for them in their time of need.  Through this act of love, their eyes are opened to their vulnerabilities and the seed of love is planted in their heart.

The element of respect is so important.  When you give love, if you respect that person, it’s much easier to open your heart to them which can expose your own vulnerabilities.  Respect grows into trust and you are able to love completely and unconditionally.

When you are able to love unconditionally, you free yourself from your selfish desires and wants. You avoid the pain of unfulfilled expectations.  By loving unconditionally, you are actually freeing yourself.

Those who interact with you will be enhanced by your gift of love.
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What the world needs most is love! ~ To quote the Beatles, All You Need Is Love!

Dave….
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David Duane Wilson
David Duane Wilson

A Little About Dave!

I’m retired and now live in the beautiful little town of Wimberley which is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.  I started a Handy Services company and one of my clients changed my life.  His name is Dr. Joe Vitale and he has become an inspiration to me.  My entire outlook on life  has changed.  I’m a positive person who is happier, more confident and ready to enjoy every moment of each day.  I enjoy writing about my self-improvement journey of “Making a Change for the Better”.  http://giveitathought.com/
Follow Dace on Twitter @DavidDWilson

So there is a little daily dose of LOVE for all of you today. Please go by and let David know what you thought of this wonderful post. And as always, let him know *Catherine Lyon* sent you!

God Bless All,
Catherine Townsend-Lyon, Author
Lyon Media & Book Promotions :-)

 

Lyon Media Welcomes New Author, A.R. Tirant & Her New Book “Echoes from the Oasis”…

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

Hello and Welcome Readers & Friends,

 

Today I Welcome, A. R. Tirant, ‘Rosie’ to me and you, as she is a brand new UK Author! Her book is available in both the United Kingdom, United States, and a few other countries.

Rosie and I met through a few social media sites, and when she told me a little about her new book, I had to go take a peek on Amazon & Goodreads myself to investigate! What first took my breath away was her beautiful book cover! And the book blurb is fantastic too. And yes, I added her book to my Goodreads “Want To Read book” shelve. Here is a little about her new novel that will be part of a wonderful series …

http://www.amazon.com/Echoes-Oasis-R-Tirant/dp/099280860X

About Her Book:

In early 1900 on the island of Mahe in the Seychelles, women were confined to specific roles and expectations, and custom and traditions prevailed with reverence. But, 16-year-old Anna, being passionate, nature-loving and rebellious, wanted more out of life. She had different desires and bigger dreams…

The book tells the emotional and dramatic story of Anna’s younger years. Forbidden love brought joy and meaning to her life, but it was quickly followed by a dreadful smallpox epidemic that brought tragedy to Mahe’s Victoria hospital where Anna worked.  Would she survived the ordeal ? Louis agonised and prayed… fate did lend a hand, and after months of separations they were finally reunited. Surely all will now be fine for them ?

Meanwhile in the background, the threatening atmosphere of a dark and closely guarded secret – witchcraft practices – has the islanders of this close-knit Catholic community shivering in fear, but it is the arson, murder and rape rearing its ugly heads that were more frightening.

Suddenly, in a dramatic twist of fate, Anna’s life was turned perilously upside down… Will she be able to overcome that new drama and survived the First World War at the same time? …
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A Little Novel Points Of Interest:

Seychelles Islands   –  July 1912
Anna Savy made a brutal and painful discovery on her 16th birthday.

From the abundance of nature of her exotic island she found comfort and help, and something else…

As the island way of life plays out, Anna uses her wit and the advice of her only friend to achieve an impossible dream.

Her fate and predicament are laid bare as she faces the confinement of her situation, and the close-knit Catholic community she must abide to.

Commerce and business rivalry are the focus of two important families :  the du Barre’s  and the Benezet’s, and deadly consequences follow.

The beauty of Christmas in this small picturesque seaside village shows the faith and culture of the islanders at its best.

The role of women from all backgrounds and status are laid bare, as all positive and negative effects of their Catholic faith molds them.

The rites of a traditional Wedding Proposal and Engagement are played out, showing its importance and the pride and joy it brings.

A look at the island’s economy and the importance of the monthly Steam Ship visit from Europe.
By May 1913, the friendship and bond between Anna and Louis du Barre’ are growing beautifully. But, it was on 1st July that they shared a tender moment at their oasis, as he presented her with a gift he had created for her birthday …

*Now you will need to go purchase to , “Read The Rest of the Story”* …
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About The Author, A. R. Tirant:

Image of A R Tirant
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Rosie Tirant-Longhurst, aka A.R. Tirant, was born in the Seychelles in November 1958. The daughter of a policeman and, the eldest in a family of four brothers and four sisters. She grew up on the northern coast of Mahe island, in the tiny  seaside village of Beau-Vallon. Her working life started in 1975 as a nurse at Mahe’s Victoria Hospital, and followed there after by a long career in the Hotel Industry. She emigrated to England in 1995, and lives in West Sussex with her husband. She has two grown-up sons and a granddaughter.
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Rosie wasn’t born with a pen in her hand, far from it. Life growing up was hard and strict. The home comforts we all now take for granted was but a dream for the young girl whose days was divided between household chores, cooking, cleaning and looking after her young siblings. Water for all the household use had to be carried from the stream, with one hand holding the pail on her head, whilst keeping the second pail in her other hand from spilling. Education only happened because it was the one way of getting some rest during the daytime, even if the chores still had to be done by the lights of the coconut oil lamp.
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They were difficult times, times when she would lean against the pillar of the outdoor kitchen while waiting for dinner in those black pots to finally get ready, and stare at the tropical skies above, marvelling at the diamond beauty of the scattering of stars, and wishing for a different life …

“Echoes from the Oasis” is her debut novel which will be followed by other titles in the same series.
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So, now that we know a wee bit more about Rosie Tirant, and more about her new novel, the only real thing to do now is go grab a copy of her book! And since it is going to be a series?
Read book one to be ready for the next chapter of this Fabulous Novel Series.

Now we also know that reviews can tell us so much about a good-read,  and that it IS worth your time and money to buy and enjoy, so here are a few early ‘Amazon Reviews’ to let you know just that! And I can also share with my friends and readers here, that she has ALL 5 STAR Amazon Reviews already in just the couple of months of her release. That tells you many are enjoying book one of her New Novel …
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A couple 5 star reviews:

Highly recommended By Ginette Ally on 30 Jun 2014
Format: Paperback Verified Purchase

“A realistic insight into the lives of the Seychellois during the late 19th and early 20th century.
The story line is woven around a young, white Seychellois defying all odds for a different future!
Very interesting read and looking forward to the sequel”!
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Intriguing, captivating and well written By Miss Cunningham on 4 Aug 2014

Format: Kindle Edition Verified Purchase
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“This book isn’t something I would ordinarily read (most of my collection falls within the fantasy/sci-fi genre) but occasionally I find a well written book outside of my normal sphere of reference which captures my interest; this was one such story. I was enchanted from start to finish.
The characters and their intricate back stories are complemented by vivid descriptions of the environment and culture which surrounds them – I am going to have to reread the book again soon (at a more leisurely pace) so I can better appreciate this aspect. In addition to the carefully crafted context, the narrative itself is cleverly paced and enticing.

I didn’t want to put the book down; I was reading whilst walking from the train station to the office (much to the annoyance of everyone around me)…… the only negative I can find is that I’m going to have to wait for the next one. Would definitely recommend”!*I want to say a big “Thank You” to my new friend and fellow Author, Rosie Tirant for letting me share her New Novel, and  a bit more about her with all my friends and readers here today, and all those who come by in the future. I’m so excited to get to reading her new novel, that way I can come back SOON and blog my own review”!
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You also connect with Author, A.R. Tirant on a few social media sites below. So go check out her new novel in paperback, or download on your Kindle or laptop today!
And as I always ask and close with? Please, go back and do your review of her book, as it helps all use authors grow as writers, and lets us know what our readers think about our craft of writing and authoring books … HAPPY READING!
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Connect With Author, Rosie Tirant:
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8347434.A_R_Tirant
https://www.facebook.com/seychellesauthorincuckfield
uk.linkedin.com/pub/rosie-tirant/7b/b4b/143
http://www.seychelles-Author-In-Cuckfield.com
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Echoes-Oasis-A-R-Tirant/dp/099280860X

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Echoes from the Oasis

 

 

 

 

Lyon Media & Book Promotions Presents A Fabulous Press Release Share Of Author, Marilyn Fowler And Her Book~”Silent Echoes”

Catherine Lyon Author/Writer Featured Guest , , ,

Hello Readers & Friends,

My good friend, and fellow Author, Marilyn Fowler has a fabulous write up and Press Release that was done by her publisher, Outskirts Press that I want to share here today. Her book has been out awhile, but it has fantastic reviews, and worth your time to read. The press release was just so good, and so descriptive, it will not only give you an inside look of what her book is about, but the extremely important message it reveals. SO ENJOY! …
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*Life Turns From Fear to Freedom in New Memoir, Silent Echoes, by Author, Marilyn Fowler. Published by Outskirts Press*
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“Veteran psychotherapist and author Marilyn Fowler’s new personal memoir spans three generations and takes readers from the high life of the Roaring Twenties through the stock market crash, the gritty survival of the Great Depression” …
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Marilyn Fowler’s newly released personal memoir, Silent Echoes, published by Outskirts Press, follows the lives of a resilient mother and daughter who are both stubborn enough to get back up every time life dashes them to their knees and still laugh at themselves while doing so.

As their story unfolds, their childhood fears and confusions begin to be reflected in their lives as disturbing silent echoes that they need to deal with, and they discover that the influence of these subtle messages from the past has prompted wrong turns in their lives and led to their emotional disillusionment. Only by candidly facing these fearful shadows do they achieve the insight that brings understanding, healing and finally freedom …

“Here’s an author who set aside the fears of looking into her past, and in doing so, emerged into newness and fullness of life,” said Reverend Betty Sikking of Silent Echoes.  

“Marilyn Fowler has artfully combined her clinical observations with gut wrenching personal memories to reflect on the impact of childhood experiences on adult life,” said Martye Groble, Ph.D., LMHC, of this poignant memoir.

Marilyn Fowler’s brave and unflinching self-examination and her years of professional mental health experience combine in this notable memoir to produce a work from which any reader will be led to new insights about human behavior and about the richness of life.

Silent Echoes is available on-line in paperback through Amazon and Barnes and Noble and at http://www.outskirtspress.com/buybooks …

More About The Author:
Marilyn Fowler has enjoyed a career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in the mental health field.  She was a Mental Health Team Leader before becoming the Director of Mental Health Services for the Duval County Jail in Jacksonville, Florida.  She has coordinated mental health services for five nursing homes, has worked in outpatient units and was in private practice for a number of years as a psychotherapist.

One of Marilyn’s stories has appeared in the Salvation Army magazine, and another will appear in the book, “When God Spoke to Me”, by Candace and David Paul Doyle. There is a wonderful Youtube video of Marilyn you can see here: http://youtu.be/R4EGPkKtRBk “Me And Grandmama” …

Come connect with Author, Marilyn Fowler on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMarilynFowler?ref=tn_tmnm
On Google+ : https://plus.google.com/111677855649914777534 
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Much Happiness & Blessings All,
Author, Catherine Townsend-Lyon Of Lyon Media & Book Promotions
http://www.amazon.com/Silent-Echoes-Marilyn-Fowler/dp/1432749498