‘Forbidden Bodyguard’ by Rachael Theron is an Enemies to Lovers Romance novel. Photo: Rachael Theron, used with permission.
Contemporary romance novels have always been the most popular subgenre of romance novels because they take place in modern times and the characters tend to be more relatable. If you are a fan of these novels, I have exciting news for you: today’s new book release is a contemporary romance titled “Forbidden Bodyguard: An Enemies to Lovers Romance” by Rachael Theron. As an added bonus, you can take advantage of a Free Book Download offer to check out this forbidden romance between a bodyguard and his boss’ daughter. Sounds steamy, doesn’t it? Don’t wait! Get yourself a free copy and find out what happens when you mix business with pleasure.
Hooking up with my boss’s gorgeous daughter wasn’t part of the job description.
Isabella Blackwood is back from college and is more entitled than ever. As the head of Blackwood security, I can work things around to make sure we don’t cross paths. But I secretly crave her smart mouth, wondering what other nasty things her full lips can do. Her privileged attitude, stunning looks, and seductive body —she’s a maddening mix of irritation and fascination. Things get complicated when Isabella’s father insists she has her own bodyguard, but I don’t trust him.
My protective instincts go wild.
When we’re stuck together for a weekend wedding, everything is put on the line, and I’ll risk it all to keep her safe: my career, my life, my heart. (Rachael Theron, 2023)
Kristen Grainger & True North launch new album Fear of Falling Stars – due out November 10, 2023. Photo: Kristen Grainger & True North
In a world thirsting for authenticity and genuine connection, Kristen Grainger & True Northoffers a wellspring of soul-stirring songs. Led by the enchanting vocals of Kristen Grainger and drawing on elements of bluegrass, country, and Americana, the Pacific Northwest string band writes songs that connect us, illuminating universal truths with haunting beauty. The band is made up of three champion instrumentalists, Dan Wetzel, Martin Stevens, and Josh Adkins, and is fronted by lead vocalist Kristen Grainger, a storied songwriter who has taken top honors at some of the nation’s most prestigious songwriting competitions, including Telluride Bluegrass Festival, MerleFest, and the USA Songwriting Contest. Kristen Grainger & True North launch their new album with the first single Across the Mountains. The new album, Fear of Falling Stars, will be out November 10, 2023. (IV-PR, 2023)
In the first four measures of Kristen Grainger & True North’s new tune Across the Mountains, listeners experience the full range of what sets the award-winning Americana quartet apart; tried and true musicianship and songcraft steeped in both the old and new. With equal focus on compelling songwriting and excellent instrumental execution, this new album offers ten songs that nestle in the ear on the way to the heart. From heart-wrenching ballads to foot-stomping anthems, Fear of Falling Stars reveals a series of musical zoom shots through the windows of modern life.
Fans can stream or purchase Across the Mountains, watch the lyric video, premiered by The Bluegrass Situation, and stay up to date on Fear of Falling Stars ahead of its November release.
Fear of Falling Stars track list: Don’t Take Me Back Go-Nowhere Town Extraordinary Grace Memories and Moments Across the Mountains It’s the Little Things The Avalanche Pent-Up What Might Have Been Stop Me If I Told You This Before
Catch Kristen Grainger on tour: November 4 – Seattle, WA – Concerts At Our House Series November 10 – Portland, OR – PNC Live Studio Concert November 18 – Portland, OR – Alberta Rose Theatre November 29 – Sisters, OR – The Belfry
15 Cameras is available On Demand and limited theater release. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Voyeuristic style films explore society’s insatiable thirst to watch and be watched. If you’re a fan, this new horror release might be a good fit for you. 15 Cameras is a sequel to 13 Cameras and 14 Cameras but it does well as a stand alone movie, so you don’t necessarily have to see the first two films to enjoy this one. On Friday October 13, it is coming to On Demand and in theaters in Los Angeles. 15 Cameras, directed by Danny Madden and written by PJ McCabe stars Will Madden, Angela Wong Carbone, Hilty Bowen, James Babson, Shirley Chen, Hannah Mckechnie, Skyler Bible, Courtney Dietz, Erik Leupp, Donna Allen, Brianne Moncrief, Jim Cummings, and Stephen Ruffin. (October Coast, 2023)
15 Cameras – When Cam and Sky bought their duplex, it seemed like the perfect investment opportunity for the young couple; a starter home, a mortgage offset by renters, and even a guest room for Sky’s sister, Carolyn. But as Sky and Cam slowly uncover hidden cameras and secrets of the duplex’s previous owner, obsession consumes their marriage and they both fall into destructive forms of voyeurism. When new tenants move in downstairs, their fixation with observing others has deadly consequences and they are forced to confront the very things they have been consumed by.
Karen Lam’s highly anticipated horror movie is out now on digital platforms. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Karen Lam‘s highly-anticipated The Curse of Willow Song, starring Jennifer Body’s Valerie Tian, has been picked up by Uncork’d Entertainment. The horror picture, receiving great early buzz thanks to its strong special effects, is now available on digital formats including iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, Google, YouTube movies, and more. (October Coast, 2023)
The Curse of Willow Song – Willow Song, a recovering addict, is released on probation after serving her prison term for arson. Struggling to start over, she faces systemic racism and eviction. Willow finds herself in a concrete wasteland. Facing isolation and displacement, shadows creep into Willow’s mind and her nightmares become too real. Against the backdrop of a city seen in vacant properties and people left behind. Willow can’t escape the nightmares, as the shadows come to life.
“The Curse of Willow Song has so much to offer. It will appeal for the genre audience but also the Asian community – as represented in front of and behind camera”, said Keith Leopard, President Uncork’d Entertainment. “Karen Lam is truly one of the most exceptional filmmakers out there, and The Curse of Willow Song reiterates that.”
‘R/N/A: Deadly Sequence’ is the new fast-paced medical thriller by Mikael Lundt. Photo: Mikael Lundt, used with permission.
When it comes to thrillers, my all time favorite are medical thrillers and it is no wonder: they often explore the deadly consequences of medical science when it falls into the wrong hands, all in the name of greed or in the quest for ultimate power and control. One of the first authors I read in this genre was Robin Cook, then I discovered Michael Palmer, Tess Gerritsen, Patricia Cornwell, and most recently, Dr. Cristina LePort. After reading a sample, this new book release reminds me so much of the best of Robin Cook, whose antagonists are often pharmaceutical companies. If like me, you love getting lost in a gripping medical thriller, check out Mikael Lundt’s “R/N/A: Deadly Sequence” and find out what happens when a Pandora’s Box of chaos is unleashed. It is available on Amazon.
Mikael Lundt is an author who stands for gripping thrillers, dark science fiction, and thought-provoking fantasy. In his books, technology, philosophy, the supernatural, and the extraterrestrial often blend into a stirring combination. Unveil the terrifying underbelly of modern medicine in “R/N/A: Deadly Sequence,” his riveting new pharmaceutical thriller. (Mikael Lundt, 2023)
“R/N/A: Deadly Sequence” – A dramatic increase in unexplained side effects calls WHO expert Dr. Laura Delille to the scene. Infertility, miscarriages and deaths are on the rise. Initial evidence points to a new mRNA-based vaccine. As the symptoms worsen and people who have never received the vaccine begin to fall ill, it becomes clear that there is more at stake than just the obvious side effects.
As Laura investigates the mysterious causes on the African continent, reporter Hugh Stevens follows her lead. His research shows: this is neither a tragic coincidence nor a natural phenomenon, but the ruthless plan of a pharmaceutical company. Most puzzling of all, there is no trace of a clear pathogen. Laura’s superiors at the WHO, on the other hand, seem to keep putting obstacles in her way.
Soon, Laura and Hugh find themselves in the middle of a sinister conspiracy – and in grave danger. With time running out for them, the phenomenon spreads worldwide, soon threatening millions. Is the world at the beginning of a planned pandemic that could threaten the very existence of the human species?
Based on the best-selling book ‘Carmela Full of Wishes,’ the acclaimed production celebrates family, dreamers, and the unexpected ‘magik’ of hope. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
Magik Theatre starts its new season by celebrating imagination and big dreams with a production sure to thrill anyone who has ever sent wishes into the wind by blowing on a dandelion. Based on the celebrated book of the same title by Newbery Medal and Caldecott Honor-winning author Matt de la Peña and illustrator Christian Robinson, Carmela Full of Wishes runs from October 14-22. In the spirit of wishing and dreaming big this season, Magik announces a delightful new collaboration with Hemisfair to include a new series of exciting events and special performances designed to charm young audiences at every turn. Ticket information is available online. (Magik Theatre, 2023)
THE MAGIK OF WISHES On her seventh birthday, Carmela wakes up thrilled to finally be old enough to join her big brother on their family errands. As they visit the local lavanderia, bodega, and various neighbors, Carmela stumbles upon a lone dandelion growing in the pavement. Before she can blow away its white fluff, her brother reminds her to make a wish. Full of hopes and dreams, Carmela wishes for a candy machine and a fancy bed for Mamí like the ones at the hotel where she works. But her dandelion is crushed before she can make her biggest wish, for Papí to come back home soon. Can her brother help her to believe in her dreams once again?
“Matt de la Peña’s book tells a beautiful story of a girl who discovers the magic and wonder of her wishes in the real world: in her community, in nature, and in her family. Our production keeps the heart of this story alive while also reflecting the culture of the South Texas community in a show that is sure to entertain and inspire.” – Director Claudia de Vasco.
BEHIND THE MAGIK Adapted by Alvaro Saar Rios and directed by Claudia de Vasco, the cast includes several debut performances to include Clarissa Ramos in the title role, with Ernesto Dominguez playing Carmela’s brother and Alberto Ramirez Jr. as Papí, Senor Lopez, and Flower Boy. Crystal M. Bratton returns as Carmela’s mother. Lucian Hernandez and Stormie Brennan bring Christian Robinson’s iconic illustrations to life via set design and costumes. Back by popular demand, aspiring actors and family fans can attend a post-performance meet and greet after every show.
Magik Theatre offers amazing resources for educators via field trips to the full live performance as well as educator workshops. This season, “Magik on the Road” will bring Carmela Full of Wishes directly to schools and other interested groups. Each production is accompanied by a TEKS-based interactive classroom resource guide filled with enjoyable, accessible activities related to the performance, creating an unforgettable learning experience without ever having to leave the school.
Magik Story Time at Hemisfair | Tuesday, October 10, 10a.m. Magik Theatre and Hemisfair announce a new installation of Hemisfair’s weekly Story Time with special guests from Magik Theatre reading from each production’s themed book. The series takes place in Yanaguana Garden each Tuesday before the theatre’s opening weekends with Magik’s Education Manager, Lissette Belmontes kicking off the series as she reads from “Carmela Full of Wishes” on Tuesday, October 10. To make little wishes come true, Hemisfair will gift 20 free copies of the book to its first 20 Story Time guests.
Magik Theatre Opening Day Party in the Park| Saturday, October 14, 12:30p.m., show at 2p.m. Ideally situated in San Antonio’s iconic Hemisfair, this season Magik Theatre celebrates each opening performance with free themed art activities, festive food and drinks, and complimentary live music just outside the theatre to create the perfect family outing. Patrons will not want to miss this special event series, kicking off with Carmela Full of Wishes when Hemisfair and Magik host artist Aminah Dece will provide an interactive dandelion craft, tunes by DJ Mayhem, Panderia Jimenez’s SA-famous conchas and hojarascas, and aguas frescas courtesy of Paleteria San Antonio.
Muertos Fest Free Performance of Carmela Full of Wishes| Saturday, October 28, 10a.m. During the 11th annual Día de los Muertos Fest at Hemisfair, festival attendees will have the opportunity to attend a free performance of Carmela Full of Wishes at Magik Theatre on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservation is required. Muertos Fest tip: Fest attendees are also welcome to visit the theatre’s fully stocked concession stand to purchase affordable refreshments, no admission ticket required. While there, guests can visit Magik’s ofrenda celebrating the deceased loved ones of the Magik Theatre staff.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, October 21, 10a.m. Designed with both children and adults on the autism spectrum, and those with sensory sensitivities in mind. Our goal is a relaxed and judgment-free theatre experience where audiences can sing, laugh, and dance.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, October 21, 2p.m. Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary sign language interpreter, will be available during this performance for patrons that require ASL as their primary form of communication.
A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to use the power of theatre to create Magikal storytelling for children that Activates imagination, Grows young minds, and Inspires creativity and a love of learning that is the Key to a more literate future for our community.
Cosmico is Cruz Contreras’ debut album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer Cruz Contreras has impacted Americana music worldwide with projects Robinella and the CCstringband (1998-2007) and The Black Lillies (2009-2019). While in college, Contreras co-founded Robinella and the CCstringband, lending his initials to the string band that featured vocalist and guitarist Robinella, Billy Contreras on fiddle, Taylor Coker on upright bass, Steve Kovalcheck on electric guitar, and Contreras as bandleader on mandolin. A split from his work and life with Robinella in 2007 led to new beginnings for Contreras, who founded The Black Lillies in 2009. The Black Lillies cemented his reputation as an insightful songwriter and a powerhouse vocalist. With the release of his debut album Cosmico, Cruz Contreras is born again, able to express himself with pure artistic integrity and proud to put out this release using his own name; his family’s name. (IV-PR, 2023)
Following a too-long period of self-doubt, both personally and in his songwriting—“It was so confusing because it seems to be what I’ve always been best at and has brought me so much joy,” he reflects—Contreras used the writing and recording process of Cosmico to center himself, push out his musical demons, and open the door for a fresh chapter. The resulting album feels pure; a cosmic amalgamation of influences and personal styles from Contreras’s entire career. Introspective lyrics, inventive musicianship, and a notable psychedelic edge on the production of the album define Cosmico, almost as much as a confident-as-ever Cruz, whose voice has matured into a rich instrument for his elevated lyrics. “These songs are fresh, timely, and especially relatable during these strange times,” Contreras says. “I made Cosmico because the world needs music that brings people together, from all walks of life, more than ever.” Engineered by Craig Alvin, Cosmico is a sonic journey that features Contreras on keyboards in his most intimate vocal and lyrical setting while taking his traditional musical stylings to epic astral regions.
Fans can stream or purchase Cosmico in its entirety by following this link.
Cosmico track list: Flashing Light Doin’ Time Stop Giving Your Heart Away Call Me Crazy Separate Minds Let Somebody Love You Time Stand Still Breaking A Habit Road That Has No End
Catch Cruz Contreras on tour: October 4-6 – Sevierville, TN – Dollywood’s Harvest Festival October 26 – Troy, VA – Yarnival 2023 November 3 – Thomas, WV – The Purple Fiddle December 15 – Roanoke, VA – 5 Points Music Sanctuary
Early morning coffee and some pretty leaves. Photo: Clay Banks on Unsplash.
** Contains update -Originally published October 2, 2023 **
Fall is a magical time of year – it’s the season for cozy knits and Pumpkin Spice everything, after all! But fall is also a great time to get out and explore. With fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect season for some fun activities at home, in your local area and beyond.
So what should be on your must-do list this fall? Take a look at some of the following ideas and start filling up your schedule.
Enjoy concerts and special movie nights
If you love attending the theater, concerts and outdoor screenings, then fall is the perfect time to do so. The evenings get darker quicker, so it’s the perfect time for a special cinema screening or outdoor theater performance, where the lighting will be magical. Take some cozy blankets and wrap up warm to beat the chill.
Of course, if you’d prefer to be inside at this time of year, you can always explore some indoor concerts and events for the fall that will be perfect for those cooler evenings. Explore what’s happening in your local area and get involved.
Spend time outdoors
There’s nothing better than a long walk in the cool autumn air. Whether you want to enjoy a hike in the mountains or spend your days at the beach, you’ll find plenty of opportunities throughout the fall months. Why not check out some of the best pumpkin patches to visit and get ready for those all-important themed photoshoots?
You could also use this time to help out in your community. Help collect trash on the beach or your favorite beauty spots, or get involved with a local charity. You could even volunteer for some dog walking at your local shelter as an excellent excuse to spend time outside, while getting to hang out with some new furry friends.
Discover autumn crafting
One of the best things about fall is the beautiful colors of nature. Shades of red, brown and orange dominate the foliage at this time of year, so why not celebrate this with some crafting? You can make your own fall-themed wreath, enjoy pumpkin crafts and so much more to add a little seasonal color to your home, or gift to friends and family.
TikTok is full of fall craft inspiration, and these fall-themed candles are the perfect way to start.
Why not invite some friends over and enjoy candle-making together?
Curl up with a good book
After a busy summer, fall is a good time to relax and recharge. Is there anything better than curling up with a good book while sitting by the fire or in your cozy reading space? There are some fantastic books to check out this fall, giving you plenty of recommendations to add to your reading list. Get some autumnal snacks ready and plenty of hot chocolate while you indulge in this perfect fall activity.
Fall is a great time of year to take some time for yourself and to do the things you want to do. Whether that means some self-care for you, or a day exploring with friends and family, you’ll find plenty of things to do over the coming months. Make the most of this special time and enjoy all of the wonderful things the season has to offer.
Addendum:
Learn to Play Instruments
With the chill in the air and cozy vibes setting in, why not dive into something new this fall? Learning to play an instrument could be just the thing to add a bit of warmth to your indoor days. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to level up your musical skills, fall’s got the right vibe for it. If you’re into rock, try your hand at the guitar and spice up your tunes with some grit. For all the metal enthusiasts out there, figuring out the best distortion pedal for tube amp can be a cool adventure.
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)
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 LettingGo, 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
SA Examiner 