Month: September 2023

New book release: ‘Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1’ by Stephanie Tyo

‘Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1’ is the new paranormal fantasy novel by Stephanie Tyo. Photo: Amazon

Nothing beats an enchanting love story with a touch of the paranormal and that is exactly what today’s new book release is all about. If you like romance novels with complex characters and a complicated fairy tale love story, consider “Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1” by Stephanie Tyo. With highly descriptive language and an intense storyline, it is sure to please the romance lover in everyone. It is book one in the Eternally Yours series and is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, and other book retailers.

Stephanie Tyo resides in Cornwall, Ontario and brings a unique blend of empathy and intellect to her writing. Trained as a medical assistant and personal support worker, she is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Women and Gender Studies. Her ultimate aspiration is to become a therapist and eventually a psychologist. Stephanie is enthusiastically exploring various genres. Her love for storytelling is deeply entwined with her commitment to lifelong learning, a value she aims to inspire in her readers. At the heart of Stephanie’s life are her two teenage daughters, their experiences providing a wealth of inspiration for her narratives. Her stories, infused with authentic emotions and experiences, reflect her fascination with the diverse spectrum of human life. Stephanie’s work promises to resonate with readers who share her love for compelling narratives and continuous learning. In her new book “Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1,” Quinn’s world is about to change forever as she is faced with having to make a choice that will shape her future. (Amazon, 2023)

“Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1” – Set in the small city of Cornwall, Ontario, Quinn is determined to become a psychologist. She leads a simple life with her father, saving for her dreams. However, everything shifts when she meets James, a captivating and enigmatic young man by the river. Their connection grows, and as they embark on their university journeys, Quinn finds herself torn between the mysterious James and her competitive friend, Jasper, for whom she develops feelings. Secrets and revelations unfold, and Quinn discovers the shocking truth about James’ hidden secret. As danger looms and relationships are tested, old feelings resurface, and a love triangle ensues, pushing Quinn to the edge.

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Upcoming new horror movie release: Grieve

From Terror Films, Grieve will be out on digital platforms on Friday October 6, 2023. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

It’s officially spooky season! Looking for a horror movie to stream next weekend? Here is a new one from Terror Films.

The new atmospheric horror thriller Grieve, written and directed by Robbie Smith and starring Paris Peterson and Danielle Keaton, hits digital platforms Friday October 6 in North America. It will be available on JOBLO MOVIES, iTunes, and more.

Grieve – A man engulfed in the suffocating grip of loss finds his life fragmented. Struggling to navigate through his emotional fog, his mother suggests a retreat to her cabin – but an ancient entity that thrives on sorrow has taken root. The New England winter punctuates this love letter to creeping horror and slow cinema, like a marriage of Chantal Ackerman and Kiyoshi Kurosawa. (October Coast, 2023)

Courtesy photo, used with permission.
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Taco Cabana pairs barbacoa and Big Red for special bundle deal

For a limited time, enjoy the iconic pairing of barbacoa tacos and Big Red for just $6.99 at participating Taco Cabana locations in San Antonio and Austin only. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Are you a fan of Barbacoa and Big Red? Then this special deal from Taco Cabana is just for you:

Launching Friday, September 29, 2023, Taco Cabana will extend a special value offer to Barbacoa and Big Red fans. For a limited time, when guests purchase two (2) Barbacoa tacos for $6.99 they will receive a complimentary 12 oz. can of Big Red. This offer is valid while supplies last at participating Taco Cabana locations in San Antonio and Austin only. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

The limited-time Barbacoa and Big Red special is available through curbside, pick-up, drive-thru, in-restaurant, and via mobile order through the My TC! App. Not available through third party delivery providers.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of September 27, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

New book release: ‘House One’ by Nina Wilson

‘House One’ is the new novel by Nina Wilson. Photo: Amazon

Who can resist a good mystery novel filled with suspense and spooky settings? These types of books have always been my favorite, and growing up, I would look forward to my next suspenseful read. Today’s new book release is a novel for young readers ages 15-18 that centers around the strange goings on in a summer camp for children. “House One” by Nina Wilson takes place at a summer camp and involves unexplained deaths and malevolent forces. Check it out for yourself. Suitable for all readers, it is available on Amazon.

Nina Wilson is an author, poet, and photographer from the middle of nowhere Iowa. She has a B.A. in History and Fiction, and an M.F.A. in fiction. She has published a handful of poems in various literary magazines. Her two previous novels, “Surrender Language” and “Malady,” were published by Adelaide Books, the editor of which unfortunately is now involved in a handful of class-action lawsuits for fraud. Personally, she is an avid cat-lover, history nerd, and spear-fighter in a Historical European Martial Arts group. She enjoys hiking with her cats and cemetery photography. Her novel “House One” is largely based on her experience working at a summer camp for six summers and all the mayhem and mystery that went along with it. (Nina Wilson, 2023)

“House One” – Deep in the hills of Greenville, Iowa sits a century-old summer camp for children—Camp Kellova. Throughout the various remodels over time, House One remains a mysterious entity. Danger still lurks and unexplained deaths continue with frequency. Long-time camp counselor, Laurel has always been leery of House One. This summer, after she pulls a body out of Lake Owaissa, she decides it is time to find out why the spirit of this cabin has become so merciless. What malevolent forces are behind the mysterious happenings at House One? More importantly, what can Laurel do to keep the children out of its shadowy grip?

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Book review: ‘Leo and the Magic Telescope: Adventure of Making Friends’ by Anjita Jain

‘Leo and the Magic Telescope: Adventure of Making Friends’ is the new children’s book by Anjita Jain. Photo: Amazon

Anjita Jain is an IT Professional by day, writes whimsical worlds by night, and masterfully bridges the realms of technology and tales. A mother of two and a lover of nature’s wonders, her life is a tapestry of tech insights, vibrant stories, and the simple joys of family and pets. Journey into the charming town of Minglewood with Anjita Jain’s debut children’s book, “Leo and the Magic Telescope,” a vibrant and heartwarming tale. Jain masterfully weaves a narrative that teaches valuable life lessons, while keeping young readers engaged with whimsical illustrations and enchanting storytelling. This story is a must-have addition to any child’s library. (Amazon, 2023)

“Leo and the Magic Telescope: Adventure of Making Friends” is a magical journey of friendship and self-discovery, where young readers learn that, just like the boundless cosmos, they too are full of endless possibilities and magic. The story centers around Leo, a little lion who discovers a magic telescope that provides him with enlightening insights into his friends’ fears and feelings. Through his journey, Leo learns about empathy, understanding, and the power of being uniquely himself. Join Leo in his heartwarming adventure and discover the magic that unfolds when we view the world through a lens of empathy and understanding.

This is the story of Leo the lion who lives in a town full of colors, as evidenced by the beautiful and colorful illustrations. He is about to start school, so he is understandably nervous because sometimes it is hard to make friends, even though you are a lion. When he gets to school, he is told he is too loud and too big which makes him sad because he has no friends. Until he discovers a telescope in the attic that promises magic. With a heartwarming message, this book is perfect for children ages 4-8 as well as parents and educators who can use it as a tool to guide children and teach them how to make friends by being a friend. It teaches the importance of empathy and friendship as well as self esteem and emotional intelligence. This resourceful and powerful book also serves as a bedtime story and reminder to your little one of the importance of being a good friend. The message of acceptance and empathy resonates with both children and adults. This book will surely become a treasured bedtime favorite, inspiring children to be kind, understanding, and above all, themselves.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

New bluegrass album: The Long And Lonesome Letting Go

Jim Lauderdale taps the ever talented Po’ Ramblin’ Boys for a new bluegrass album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

On September 15, Jim Lauderdale and The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys released The Long And Lonesome Letting Go, a twelve-song LP of all-new Lauderdale co-writes—half of which was written with Po’ Ramblin’ Boys guitarist Josh Rinkel. Other co-writers include 10-time IBMA Award winner Becky Buller, North Carolina old soul Joe Newberry, well-traveled producer/songwriter Jimmy Ritchey, and rising young guns Logan Ledger and Alex Leach. Whether as co-writer, bandleader, master of ceremonies, or musical ambassador for musical styles or states, Lauderdale has been one of Americana music’s all-time great collaborators and The Long and Lonesome Letting Go stands as one of the best collaborative works in his 36-album discography. (IV-PR, 2023)

“When he came to ask about making an album, we were seriously blown away,” says C.J. Lewandowski, mandolinist of Grammy-nominated bluegrass outfit The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys. “It was really validating—Jim Lauderdale calling us to do a bluegrass album,” says Lewandowski. “We must be doing something right,” says one of the genre’s most promising young torchbearers who saw Lauderdale perform many times throughout his upbringing in Missouri.

Lauderdale and The Po Ramblin’ Boys shared the album’s lead-off track, “Long And Lonesome Letting Go,” another co-write, this time with prolific writer and seasoned multi-instrumentalist, Bob Minner. Joining the already-stacked lineup is one more unmistakable voice; that high tenor of Bluegrass Hall of Famer Del McCoury. Fans can hear the up tempo heartache of “Long And Lonesome Letting Go” here or at No Depression where “Long And Lonesome Letting Go” is in their Bonus Tracks column.

Jim Lauderdale and The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys will both be headed to this year’s IBMA World Of Bluegrass conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, performing The Long And Lonesome Letting Go tunes together as well as separate sets of their own original songs. 

The Long And Lonesome Letting Go track list:
Long And Lonesome Letting Go (2:43)
She’s On A Different Train (2:31)
I’m Only So Good At Being Good (4:13)
You Fell Off The Face Of The Earth (2:51)
Last Resort (2:50)
Ghost Of A Rose (3:51)
Darkness Is The Other Side of Light (2:41)
If I Could Only Get My Heart To See (2:20)
That Was When We Were Together (2:40)
A Better Place (2:36)
She’s The Light (3:31)
Drop The Hammer Down (2:35)

Jim Lauderdale Tour Dates:
September 29 FRI IBMA Bluegrass Live Raleigh, NC
October 5 Suwannee Roots Revival Live Oak, FL
October 5 Boot Barn Hall at Bourbon Brothers Gainesville, GA
October 12Gram Parsons Guitar Pull and Tribute Festival Waycross, GA
October 17 Jim Lauderdale live at People’s Brewing Lafayette, IN
November 10 Center Austin, TX, United States
November 11 Jim Lauderdale with special guest Tony Ramey Richardson, TX
November 16 The Franklin Theatre Songwriter Series: Sierra Hull, Jim Lauderdale, Bobby Tomberlin, & Lillie Mae Franklin, TN, United States
November 17 Jim Lauderdale LIVE Paducah, KY, United States
February 4 Outlaw Country Cruise 2024 Andover, FL, United States
February 15 Tractor Tavern Sunny Sweeney Seattle, WA, United States

Po’ Ramblin’ Boys Tour Dates:
September 30 IBMA World of Bluegrass at Red Hat Amphitheater Raleigh, NC
October 16 Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair Gatlinburg, TN
October 17 Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair Gatlinburg, TN
October 18 Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair Gatlinburg, TN
October 19 Bluegrass Island Music Festival Manteo, NC
November 3 The Rex Galax, VA

Taco Cabana’s Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets

Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets to benefit Texas Children’s Hospitals. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

This October, Taco Cabana will celebrate the Fall season with the return of its beloved, limited-time Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets, featuring five FREE signature bean & cheese tacos. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

Beginning Friday, September 29, 2023, the Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets will be available for purchase at all Texas Taco Cabana locations for just $2 while supplies last. This year, all proceeds from the booklet sales will be donated to Dell Children’s Medical Center at Ascension Seton in Austin, TX; Children’s Health in Dallas, TX; El Paso Children’s Hospital in El Paso, TX; Christus Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, TX; and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, TX. The booklets will be available for purchase in-restaurant only through Tuesday, October 31, 2023, and coupons must be redeemed by Wednesday, November 30, 2023.

“Giving back to the local communities we serve has always been a big part of Brand Taco Cabana since we opened our first TC in San Antonio forty-five years ago. The Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Booklets have become a philanthropic tradition at Taco Cabana and something that so many of our loyal guests look forward to each year. We’re so happy to bring them back for the 2023 Halloween season, and we are even more honored to donate the proceeds to Texas children’s hospitals so that they may continue their life-saving efforts.” – Ulyses Camacho, Taco Cabana President and Chief Operating Officer

The Taco Treats For A Cause Halloween Coupon Booklets must be purchased in-store, and they may be redeemed only in-restaurant or via the drive-thru.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of September 25, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

Book review: ‘The Most Wanted (2004-2005)’ by Maria Angela Leon

‘The Most Wanted (2004-2005)’ is the new book by Maria Angela Leon about living with mental illness. Photo: Amazon

Maria Angela Leon is an author, licensed Aesthetician, and a professional hypnotherapist from HMI. She is the eldest female from a large family of ten and being the eldest female gave her the wisdom and direction to survive all the mental issues she has had to deal with. She uses her diverse experience to curate captivating and powerful stories to impact the lives of millions. She is the soul and heart of her own business in LA. In her new book “The Most Wanted (2004-2005),” she describes more than six decades of her life, during which survival was the only option she had. It also available in Spanish as “La Mas Buscada (FBI 2004-2005). Order your copy today to deepen your understanding of the complex world of mental illness. (Maria Angela Leon, 2023)

“The Most Wanted (2004-2005)” – Mental illness is real. Ignorance and judgmental views have held society back. By raising awareness and conversing openly about this topic, we can begin to heal. Any person, regardless of their religion, nationality, race, or class can be affected by mental illness, and the current societal taboo is brutal. In this country, mental illness is a touchy topic, especially when people who struggle with their mental health exhibit behaviors that fall outside what is socially accepted. People in in-patient facilities are often mistreated, judged, and punished. The author’s goal is to raise awareness of mental health and bring into the open the structural and societal issues that surround it. We cannot hide from or be ashamed of reality, especially if that means attacking, judging, or abandoning people who need help. The emotional and mental health issues in her family has been the engine of her existence; they have both broken her down and built her up. In this book, she shares the lessons she learned and the wisdom that comes with experience. It is divided into 19 chapters including The miracle that saved my life, When reality beats fiction, and The US Legal System. She begins by recounting her traumatic childhood at the hands of her abusive father and ends with her dreams of providing mental health services to the community.

Even though the title of this book is “The Most Wanted,” the main topic is mental health. In 2004, Maria Angela Leon was the FBI’s Most Wanted not because she was a criminal, a member of a cartel, or dangerous in any way. According to the US justice system, she was her sister’s accomplice, who was crazy and fled the country with her two children and her brother in law accused her of having the children, instead of her sister. This was a culmination of years of witnessing her family, including her father, mother, sisters, and brothers, suffer from various mental illnesses including schizophrenia. Her frustration at society’s inability to properly deal with those suffering from mental illness is palpable throughout the pages. The language is clear and easy to understand but it is hard to keep up with all the family member’s stories when she refers to them only as ‘my sister with the heart condition’ and ‘my sister who married a Puerto Rican,’ with the exception of her sister Olga. Highlights include Chapter 8 When reality beats fiction when she fled to the United States when she was 16 and pregnant to escape a forced marriage, and Chapter 13 The US Legal System where she recounts how she ended up as one of the FBI’s Most Wanted. It is heartbreaking to read about how so many members of her family have mental issues and how helpless she feels at being unable to help them. Just wanting to help someone is not enough, because there are so many other issues that come into play, like society’s indifference, healthcare, etc. Overall, “The Most Wanted” is an eye-opening account of one family’s struggle with mental illness and is recommended for readers who are looking to gain knowledge about this issue and are willing to have open conversations about it, including mental health professionals, social services workers, and law enforcement officials. 

“Fear is what destroys the human being, fear is also what builds us and takes us to other dimensions, and sometimes, when we master it, also fulfills our dreams! It’s a double-edged sword….”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

New book release: ‘Rehab for Love: Through the Reflection’ by Dara Randall

‘Rehab for Love: Through the Reflection’ is the new self help book by Dara Randall. Photo: Amazon

There are many self help books out to help survivors of abuse and demand for these resources is growing. What makes today’s new book unique is that it combines workbook exercises, journaling prompts, and poetry to guide readers in their path to recovery. This combination self help and poetry book does more than dish out advice, it involves readers in their own recovery. If you or someone you know is looking for an interactive self help book, consider “Rehab For Love: Through the Reflection” by Dara Randall. It is available on Amazon.

Dara Randall is an Access Consciousness Practitioner, Pranic Healer, NLP Practitioner, and Reiki Healer, exploring multifaceted healing journeys for personal growth. As a solo entrepreneur, they nurture their creative vision, forging an impactful path that uplifts the lives of others through their forthcoming poetry book on healing love addiction. “Rehab For Love: Through the Reflection” caters to two intertwined groups: survivors of narcissistic abuse seeking healing and poetry enthusiasts. (Dara Randall, 2023)

“Rehab For Love: Through the Reflection” metaphorically explores the link between unhealthy love and substance abuse, intertwining a self-help workbook with a story written in poetry. As the pages turn, the story unveils the mesmerizing allure of falling into a narcissistic relationship, guiding readers towards profound self-discovery and healing. The poetry beautifully illustrates how, like the ever-flowing waters that make up most of our being, we often forget that we are, at our core, beings of love. We chase after external sources to quench a thirst that perpetually resides within us. This book is a reminder that we are not just in pursuit of love; we are love itself. Immerse yourself in this journey of remembering your connection to the infinite wellspring of love that dwells within.

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New children’s book release: ‘The City Mouse and The Country Mouse’ by Henna Morgan

‘The City Mouse and The Country Mouse’ is the new children’s book by Henna Morgan. Photo: Henna Morgan, used with permission.

If you are looking for a new children’s book that teaches important life lessons, this one is the perfect choice. Today’s new children’s book release is part of the Fables & Parables: Lessons for Life series by Henna Morgan that is meant to teach children the importance of honesty, kindness, and the power of believing in yourself. The series is made up of fables that are perfect for bedtime or for sharing during moments of learning. “The City Mouse and the Country Mouse: A Lesson in Contentment, Fables & Parables: Vol. 5” is available on Amazon. It will  be free for Kindle only on Sunday, September 24, 2023 and Sunday, October 1, 2023. (Henna Morgan, 2023)

“The City Mouse and the Country Mouse” is a powerful children’s lesson about the moral of contentment. The perfect short story for any child who needs to learn to be happy with what he has, which is probable every child today. With its enduring message, this quazi-rhyming fable reminds us that being content with what we have is the key to unlocking a fulfilling life. Discover a story that echoes through time, inspiring all ages to find richness in the present moment and to embrace the treasures that lie within each individual’s reach.

Join two curious mice, each living in contrasting worlds, one amid the glitz of the city and the other the tranquility of the countryside. When the country mouse hears of all the comforts of the city, he starts believing that the grass is truly greener. Upon entering the city his eyes open wide to the beauty and grandeur of his new surroundings, not yet sensing the flaws of his new location. He soon learns that true happiness flourishes not in chasing dreams, but in savoring what he has and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.

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Photo: Henna Morgan, used with permission.