‘Bag Girl’ is the upcoming new memoir from Tozanee Smith. Photo: Tozanee Smith, used with permission.
If you like biographies and memoirs of strong women who survived a tough childhood against all odds, this upcoming new release is just for you. “Bag Girl” by Tozanee Smith will be released on Kindle on September 22, but don’t worry, it’s available for pre-order through Amazon. Reserve your copy today!
Tozanee Smith is a teacher, a mother, a nurse, and a cook (at heart). She loves spending time at home on the couch with a good romance book with the occasional glass of wine. From time to time, she likes to spend quality time with close personal friends. She lives in Martinsburg, WV and enjoys going to the movies and long road trips. Her new book “Bag Girl: Memoir: Home Is Where The Bag Is” is a memoir of strength, courage, survival, and resilience. It will be released on September 22, 2023. (Tozanee Smith, 2023)
“Bag Girl” – Trying to survive the chaotic world of being the eldest of my family comes with its own baggage. On top of being diagnosed with diabetes and PCOS at a young age, dealing with a bipolar sex crazed mother who cared more about men then her own children was a whole different fight. Having being taught to stay in a child’s place and that my feelings did not matter, nor did I have a say in anything, I knew I was brought into this world for one thing and one thing only. To mother, not be mothered. Battling my own personal demons along with my anxiety and depression was enough for my mother to keep me grounded, that alone came with its side of verbal abuse and humiliation.
‘The Family Bones’ is the new psychological thriller by Elle Marr. Photo: Amazon
Elle Marr is the #1 Amazon Charts bestselling author of “Strangers We Know,” “Lies We Bury,” and “The Missing Sister.” Originally from Sacramento, Elle graduated from UC San Diego before moving to France, where she earned a master’s degree from the Sorbonne University in Paris. She now writes and lives in Oregon with her family. In her new book “The Family Bones,” a young woman digs into her family’s shadowy legacy. (Amazon, 2023)
“The Family Bones” – Psychology student Olivia Eriksen’s family is notorious among true-crime buffs. Faced with a legacy of psychopathy that spans generations, Olivia has spent much of her academic life trying to answer one chilling question: Nature or nurture? The story begins with a brief news article about the chaotic events that took place at her family reunion. From there, it goes back two weeks with Olivia going through the 1945 trial recordings of her great uncle Calder Saffron Eriksen, who was charged with patricide, for her psychology dissertation. When she gets home she discovers the invitation to the Eriksen Family Reunion. Although she has kept a safe distance from her blood relatives for years, Olivia agrees to attend a weekend reunion. After all, her fiancé is eager to meet his future in-laws and the gathering may give her a chance to interview her elusive grandfather about the family traits, but nothing is ever peaceful among the Eriksens for long. First, Olivia’s favorite cousin is found dead in a nearby lake. Then another family member disappears. As a violent storm isolates the group further, Olivia’s fears rise faster than the river and an uninvited guest is about to join the party. True crime podcaster Birdie Tan has uncovered a disturbing mystery in her latest investigation—and she is following it right to the Eriksens’ mountain resort. No one, not even Olivia, will see the inevitable deadly twist coming.
Nature vs nurture is a frequent topic in stories that deal with psychology and in this case, Olivia is obsessed with her family history because she is nearing the age when most of her family members were diagnosed as “psychopaths” and she fears she may be next. It is fascinating to uncover the family secrets along with her. Halfway through, one begins to wonder if Olivia is the one responsible for the mayhem taking place at the reunion (she is not) and she just does not remember because she is experiencing disassociation from reality. When a book begins with a crowded family tree, you know the character list will be extensive and this one is no exception; it comes in handy as the story develops. It is narrated alternatively though the eyes of Olivia and the true crime podcaster Birdie Tan with newspaper articles filling in the details of the disturbing Eriksen family history. The references to the instances of animal cruelty perpetrated by family members in the past, though only hinted at, are rather cliché and add little substance to the story. Regardless, the language is easy to understand and beautifully descriptive: “moonlight washes the meadow in a white glow.” With relatable characters and a thrilling dialogue driven story that keeps readers guessing until the shocking ending, “The Family Bones” is a must read and recommended for fans of psychological thrillers with smart and multi layered female leads.
“A scream builds in my throat. It scratches at my shoulders, picking my collar. I should be wrestling with some deep-belly grief – the kind worthy of losing a loved one – but I stare at the wool material of the blanket until the urge to fall apart recedes. The precursors of hysteria slink back into the darkness.”
* The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
‘Torn’ by Estralia Russelle. Photo: Estralia Russelle, used with permission.
Estralia Russelle is a writer who enjoys independent thinking and creative writing. She writes novels about character development and adventure and spends most of her time in nature, learning about all life and the wonders of creation. The nature of existence captivates her attention. Having traveled to seven continents and many countries, she is intrigued by the different cultures around the world. She studied and practiced the healing arts for several years and is a retired teacher, having taught elementary, middle, and high school. Her new romance novel “Torn” centers around Anora, who after a brokenhearted farewell to her boyfriend Winston decides to move to Australia to get to know her herself and her long-lost biological family. (Estralia Russelle, 2023)
“Torn” – Anora is perplexed when her long-time boyfriend, Winston, announces his abrupt move to India from Germany, where he will be able to fulfill his life’s goal. He insists that coming with him is a mistake but implores her to have faith and wait for him- for two years. She expected to marry Winston. While he has made no such commitment, her heart longs for that future.
Heartbroken and dejected, she searches for a new beginning with her long-lost biological family residing in Australia. Finally, she can get to know her roots. Not only does she become acquainted with the mother she has never known, but siblings, aunts, and the extended family for which she has longed. The shadows of her past haunt her. Deep wounds envelop her heart from years of abuse and neglect. How will she know love when she finds it if she has never been in love?
With this new environment comes new beginnings – including love- that she never expected. Hawthorne is a stunning, tall man with an infectious laugh. He captivates her mind and her heart. However, his culture is foreign to her, leaving her to wonder if she can find unconditional love with someone so different from herself. Nevertheless, Anora finds love, but that is only the beginning. Their families are full of prejudice and threaten to tear them apart. Together, against all odds, they are steadfast in their commitment to one another.
“One of the strengths of ‘Torn’ is Russelle’s beautiful and poignant writing style. The prose is well-crafted, evoking a wide range of emotions in the reader.” Jennellbrown – Barnes & Noble review
”Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future’ is the new science fiction thriller by Marvin Merritt II. Photo: Marvin Merritt II, used with permission.
One of my favorite book genres is science fiction, especially when computers and aliens are involved in one way or another; that is just the sci-fi geek in me. This new release from Marvin Merritt II caught my attention: “Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future.” The first chapter is titled ‘The Unexplained Sky’ and begins as the night sky in San Diego, California is lighted with “a stunning array of lights, transforming the city into a celestial canvas of vivid colors.” You can read a sample on Amazon. Sounds intriguing? Here is more information about this exciting new science fiction thriller.
Marvin Merritt II is a seasoned Navy veteran and new author from Georgia. With over 20 years of service and multiple deployments, he has received numerous accolades and awards for his dedication and commitment to serving his country. Marvin’s writing often delves into themes of resilience, hope, and the power of human connection. He skillfully blends suspense, mystery, and heartwarming moments to create stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats while touching their hearts. In his latest book, “Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future,” Marvin showcases his talent for weaving thrilling tales that captivate readers. (Marvin Merritt II, 2023)
“Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future” is an enthralling sci-fi novel that transports readers through time and space. As strange objects appear in the sky, a self-loading internet app spreads worldwide, sparking wonder and mystery among the population. Noah, a brilliant scientist specializing in Computational Linguistics, leads a team that discovers the true nature of the network – a connection to humans 1,000 years in the future. Deciphering encrypted messages, the team learns of an impending disaster that threatens the Earth, putting the fate of humanity in their hands. As the countdown to the disaster begins, governments worldwide race to protect their citizens while people come together to show extraordinary displays of compassion and generosity. Meanwhile, Noah, Aria, Dr. Toliver, and their team race against the clock to prevent the catastrophe, navigating through dangerous obstacles and evading powerful organizations seeking to exploit their discoveries for their gain.
“Echoes of Tomorrow: A Race Against Time to Save Humanity’s Future” is a thought-provoking and suspenseful novel that delves into our responsibility for our present and future. The book is filled with unexpected twists, heart-pounding action, and intrigue, keeping readers on edge until the final page.
‘Live Longer, Suffer Less: The Herbal Guide To Improve Health’ by Darrell Parrish. Photo: Amazon
Darrell Parrish is an author whose three previous books centered around surviving America’s number two worst working occupation: the aggressive car salesman. Before that, he worked at an aircraft manufacturing company that made military and civilian aircraft. He supervised the cleaning of aircraft parts processed in huge chemical tanks and his main assignments was to manage engineering blueprints and develop test procedures to solve plant manufacturing problems regarding chemical processing. These two work assignments impacted his life but the car books turned him into a consumer advocate. Working sixteen years in the Material and Processing department gave him the mental means of discovering how to live longer and suffer less with herbs. He converted an American made coffee warmer into his dry diffuser invention. This enabled him to do a self-wellness DIY book for fellow Americans. The purpose of “Live Longer, Suffer Less: The Herbal Guide To Improve Health” is to allow Do-it-Yourself [DIY] enthusiasts to select herb combinations that collectively render ample “benevolent effects” into the body’s cell communities living in the human. More information and an excerpt of this book is available online. (Darrell Parrish, 2023)
“Live Longer, Suffer Less: The Herbal Guide to Improve Health” – Life is too short, no matter how old you are. Why risk your state of wellness on marketed goods and services pitched in the marketplace? Why not learn how to measure your own healthfulness? In this book, there is a simple test anyone can take. There are currently numerous health books available online. Thousands of herbs are being marketed as possible cures to specific diseases. Yet not one single herb is capable of removing any single infestation, perfectly within the body.
Few people realize the central portion of the body is not the beating heart, but the blood stream itself, which consists of sixty-five thousand miles of smaller vessels called capillaries. Only a few pre-selected herbs can protect the blood system and thereby aid the entire body’s immune system. There are ample cell communities in the body which support the thirty-seven trillions of human single cells. The supreme support to all these cells within the body are the 400 million air sacs called alveoli. Between these two living mediums is the blood system, which effectively moves oxygen and food energies in a cyclic mode — every minute of the human body’s entire life. This book will teach you how to identify the essential oils worth taking long term and how to administer key herbs with a unique dry diffuser. One main thing to remember: select key herbs from leaves, flowers, and stems. You can practice and learn this book’s five learning courses and over time and give yourself and your friends the gift of a longer life.
‘Indiscernible Elements: Calcium’ will be released on May 30, 2023. Photo: Google
Korynn Newville is an artist, designer, and environmental activist. She received a master’s degree in architecture from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a Bachelor of Design from the University of Minnesota. She is currently an architectural designer studying to become a licensed architect. She strives to utilize sustainable building practices in her professional projects and has a passion for creating artwork through the common materials used to construct her buildings projects. Korynn believes in the use of our imagination to offer new solutions to problems, and her artwork is her voice to tell the story. Her drawings and passion for the environment are the catalysts that led to her writing. Her first book, “Indiscernible Elements: Calcium,” explores the vital role of calcium not only in the body but also in architecture and human relationships. It is available for pre-order now. (Black Château, 2023)
“Indiscernible Elements: Calcium”– Calcium is a vital element that plays a fundamental role in various physiological processes in the body. As an architectural designer, Newville tells us how this element connects all of us, beyond our bodies. With a focus on practical advice and evidence-based research, her new book provides readers a new perspective of this element, and helps readers look at the world differently.
“A lot of building materials are made of pieces of calcium. My teeth are made of the same things as dry wall. Buildings are made of bones. These structures are just like us.” – Korynn Newville
Her book stems from her thesis work on how architecture needs to practice with living and dying. Newville envisions a series of future books focusing on more elements, and is embarking on a journey of sharing her art through events, media, and other vehicles.
“This book is just the beginning of what could be. By breaking us down to our core elements, we can understand the importance of our connection to the planet. And maybe that will help prepare us to live in a world that is rapidly evolving and changing.” – Korynn Newville
‘Escaping the Dashia’ is Rebecca Inch-Partridge’s new YA science fiction novel. Photo: Amazon
Rebecca Inch-Partridge is an author, an editor, and an avid science fiction fan who grew up imagining a more inclusive world for women in SFF. Today, she is helping to shape that reality. Her first novel, “Escaping the Dashia,” is a YA science fantasy published by Black Rose Writing. Rebecca is a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and Broad Universe and frequently speaks at writers’ conferences and science fiction conventions. Her short stories and articles have appeared in several magazines, and she has won Honorable Mention in both Writer’s Digest and Writers of the Future contests. “Escaping the Dashia” is the first book in The Paradox Star Cluster series and invites readers to root for the main character, young telepath Twyla, as she runs from one of the most notorious crime families in the Universe – the one led by her mother. (Black Château, 2023)
“Escaping the Dashia” is a meticulously crafted, immersive young adult (YA) science fiction (SF) novel that explores the complexities of family, betrayal, and the painful feelings of being an outsider. It follows young telepath Twyla, who is abducted by her mother and forced into her family’s criminal enterprise. Now, Twyla must navigate the blurred lines between right and wrong, good and evil, and the precarious position her family has put her in. Rebecca Inch-Partridge, a longtime SF fan, writer and speaker at science fiction conventions, uses her world-building skills to craft a richly detailed universe.
“I believe science fiction and fantasy has the power to challenge us and to inspire change. With ‘Escaping the Dashia,’ I hope to engage readers in a thrilling adventure while exploring important issues such as family dynamics, morality, and justice, all within a universe that I hope readers will enjoy exploring as much as I enjoyed creating it.” – Rebecca Inch-Partridge
Rebecca Inch-Partridge is a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and Broad Universe. As someone who grew up imagining a more inclusive world for women in SFF, today she is a strong supporter of women in SFF as well as women in STEM.
‘Fix Your Back Like An Architect’ by Marian Jodlowski. Photo: Amazon
Marian Jodlowski is a Master of Science in Architecture graduate from the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice. He also completed postgraduate studies at the Warsaw University of Technology. At age 55, he suffered from acute spinal disc disease, which temporarily prevented him from walking; after contracting this illness, Marian became interested in the mechanics of human movement. This interest resulted, among other things, from the fact that the treatment offered by the academic health service was ineffective in his case, and he considered spinal surgery a last resort. In this situation, he started looking for specialists offering alternative treatments. In his book “Fix Your Back Like An Architect: Gravity Therapy of the Spine and Motor Organs,” the author explains how he overcame acute spinal disease and returned to everyday life. He also shares how he strengthened his body so that even many years after the onset of the disease, he no longer feels discomfort. It is available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback format. (Marian Jodlowski, 2023)
During his treatment, some of the specialists’ methods had some positive results, while others did not. None of them fully identified the causes of the disease or offered a comprehensive cure. Due to Marian’s profession and technical experience, he increasingly perceived the human body as a complicated spatial mechanical system affected by Earth’s gravity, similar to the static and mechanical engineering objects functioning on Earth. Such well-proportioned objects with logically juxtaposed structural elements operating by the laws of physics function very well and are less unreliable than those without such features. Recognizing the above relationships and many others related to conditions in the field of academic and alternative medicine allowed him to formulate many important indications regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the spine and musculoskeletal system. Thanks to their use, the author not only managed to avoid spinal surgery, but many years after acute disc disease of the spine, he does not feel any related ailments. His well-being is much better than a dozen years ago.
“Fix Your Back Like An Architect: Gravity Therapy of the Spine and Motor Organs” – Most musculoskeletal dysfunctions arise from a chronic lack of gravitational tension in some muscles and over-tension in others. They usually result from habitual abuse of incorrect, often favorite body positions and because of using faulty movement patterns in everyday life. Such dysfunctions can begin gradually in childhood and become fixed for longer just as quickly. Therefore, in such cases, it is equally important to identify these problems according to the rules presented in the book and to proceed to their elimination immediately. In a healthy adult, musculoskeletal disorders usually develop much more slowly. However, if they are not eliminated in advance, they are constantly deepening, worsening a person’s well-being and even preventing them from functioning properly in everyday life.
As the leading cause of diseases of the spine and musculoskeletal system, the author presented chronic muscle tension disorders caused by the action of incorrect vectors of forces caused by gravity and ground resistance. In connection with the mechanism causing bone deformities, according to the Delpech-Wolff Law, which explains the causes of even severe skeletal deformities.
The author also indicates how the poor functioning of the muscular system during everyday activities affects the occurrence of diseases of the spine and musculoskeletal system.
Acute pain is the body’s alarm signal and should not always be eliminated too often with painkillers. However, comprehensive methods leading to the fastest possible healing of inflammation should be used. Progressive natural pain relief is a signal to undertake other forms of treatment, including active therapy involving moderate corrective exercises.
The author’s knowledge and experience presented in this book can save you from making many hasty decisions about how to treat your conditions, including risky back or joint surgery. In addition to the systemic knowledge about rebuilding the body, you will receive many practical tips to reduce your daily ailments and contribute to your recovery.
Without knowing the principles in this book, it is difficult to imagine keeping the body in good shape and avoiding the destructive influence of gravity on the body, which lasts for years. On the other hand, without using the crucial tips on exercise techniques contained in it, it is difficult to rebuild the body and effectively eliminate dysfunctions and deformities of the body caused by its incorrect use.
In the book, you will read, among other things:
How children with a weaker mitochondrial genome can avoid severe developmental defects such as scoliosis, general physical underdevelopment, and other musculoskeletal defects. How these children can match the level of physical development of other peers by consciously using the forces of gravity.
How the proper use of gravitational energy in an almost imperceptible way shapes the correct body posture in people with particular genetic predispositions. How effectively it affects the development of their muscular system, vitality, and health, and what should be done not only not to waste this potential but also to effectively use it for further strengthening of the body.
How adults can avoid conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, disc herniation, joint degradation, and general body weakness.
What are the causes of the loss of motor skills in seniors and the general decline in health with age. Moreover, what are the indications of how to stop these changes to maintain fitness and health until old age.
Why activities such as walking, running, sitting, bending the body, doing squats, and lifting weights should, in most cases, be done differently from what is generally recommended.
How to maintain high physical and intellectual fitness thanks to man’s conscious acquisition of energy in the biological and gravitational cycle.
How, through the action of gravity, in some body positions, there is a negative shaping of muscle tension, which causes the weakening of vitality and human health, and how can we prevent it.
Why many of the recommended ways to exercise in a variety of sports, including bodybuilding and weightlifting, often lead to health loss rather than health improvement.
‘Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage’ is Kanchan Bhaskar new memoir. Photo: Amazon
Kanchan Bhaskar was born and brought up in New Delhi, India. She holds a master’s degree in social work from Delhi University and a postgraduate certificate in personnel management and industrial relations. She moved to the US in 2000. She works in the corporate world, mentoring, counselling, and coaching employees at all levels in the industry. She is also now a certified advocate for domestic violence victims in the state of Illinois and is a volunteer speaker, mentor, and coach for victims and survivors. Her new book “Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” is an inspiring memoir of a woman who reclaims her power and finds the strength to leave an abusive relationship. (Kanchan Bhaskar, 2023)
“Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” – Raised by two loving parents in New Delhi, India, Kanchan Bhaskar has always been taught that marriage means companionship, tenderness, and mutual respect—so when she enters into an arranged marriage, this is the kind of partnership she anticipates with her new, seemingly wonderful, husband. The story is told in chronological order and begins in 1980-1981 when, as a new wife, Kanchan is starting a new life with her new husband and his family, all strangers to her, but is still naively hopeful that it will be full of wonder and romance. She quickly discovers that his warmth is deceptive—that the man beneath the bright, charming façade is actually a narcissistic, alcoholic, and violent man. Kanchan pleads with her husband to seek help for his issues, but he refuses. Trapped in a nightmare, and now with children to protect, she tries numerous times to leave him but Indian law is not on her side. It is not until many years later, when the family of five moves from India to the United States, that Kanchan is presented with a real opportunity to leave him—and she takes it. It is divided into eighteen chapters, including A Love Story, My Safe Haven, and Coming Together.
Kanchan Bhaskar’s memoir is not just about domestic abuse. In the Preface, she writes that “the story does not stop with gaining my freedom but describes my continuing journey on the path of spirituality.” The abuse she endured is just one part of her story; the whole is more about her personal journey to self reliance. She perseveres against all odds and it does not define who she is now. The abuse details, while disturbing, are brief and not too graphic, just enough to shed light on her tragic experiences. It is always interesting to learn about other cultures, in this case, Indian culture, especially the process of selecting a partner in an arranged marriage. This proves the universality of the human condition regardless of race or culture. The language is easy to understand and often poetic “I felt like a free bird, seeing myself as a white swan gliding high in the infinite sky – who had no boundaries, no limits, no shackles, no fear, no apprehensions…” With a story that flows easily through the pages, readers are witness to her journey from abuse to spiritual awakening. “Leaving: How I Set Myself Free from an Abusive Marriage” is an empowering story of a woman who even during her bleakest moments, found the strength to move on. It is recommended for readers who enjoy inspirational memoirs by strong women.
“I wish there was one formula for all of us, but there isn’t. The formula that worked for me and liberated me was essentially powered by my three strong beliefs, my tools, and my mantras. Belief in self. Belief in Universe. Belief in spirituality.”
*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
“Accepting Truth isn’t always easy, but it’s always necessary. Without hardship, without going through the Trials and Tribulations, strength cannot be gained. No matter how hard and hopeless you feel at times, endure a little longer and keep fighting on. Nothing great comes from taking the easy way out. Nothing permanent that is.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Seeing the Invisible: 16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
“God never promised an easy life on earth, but he did promise the temporary battle would be worth it in the end.”
Author Mike Black. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
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