Book Award News

Readers! Fall Into These Autumn Reads By Our Authors Who Have Garnished 4 & 5-Star Editorial Book Reviews Given By Reader’s Favorite and Are Worth Your Reading Time…

Catherine Lyon - Expert Marketing & Media PR Consultant Author News, Book Award News, Book Review Post, News Around The Web, Posts, Updates and More , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Hello and Welcome, Avid Readers,
Are You Looking for some Fantastic Reads?

You won’t go wrong by purchasing and reading these sweet reading treats written by many of the fine authors we represent at ‘Lyon Literary Services.’ Cat loves sharing books and ‘The Why’ you should read them when they have these exceptional editorial book reviews like the ones below. With the Holiday Season almost here, they would make great gifts too. and all books are available on Amazon, and most are within Kindle Unlimited Membership! …Enjoy!


The Shaman and the Mafia
By Elizabeth Upton

The Shaman and the Mafia is a work of fiction in the mystery subgenre. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author Elizabeth Upton. 


Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

The Shaman and the Mafia is a work of fiction in the mystery subgenre. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author Elizabeth Upton. The book follows former nun Marietta Collins as she is dragged into the aftershock of a tragic murder when her friend Joseph is killed in what looks like a mob hit. As Marietta becomes romantically involved with both Joseph’s brother and the FBI agent investigating the death, the past refuses to stay buried for all involved as the FBI hunts the mafia boss believed to have ordered the hit whilst the police search for the killer directly.

While the mystery of Joseph Gleason’s murder lies at the center of this novel and provides the core narrative around which the characters gather, the significant contribution to the story the death makes is to act as a catalyst for an in-depth and intriguing character study of those involved in Joseph’s life.

Author Elizabeth Upton has created a cast of colorful characters, each of whom has had life breathed into them by her stunning prose, and it’s a treat to turn each page and find the direction in which the narrative events will push them next. I particularly enjoyed the development of Detective Riley as she is forced to confront the harsh reality of corruption in an institution she has served for years. Beautifully blending the trappings of a love story and a thriller, The Shaman and the Mafia uses the best of both genres to tell a story unlike any other, which will stay with readers long after the final page is turned.


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This Is Me Trying: Navigating Through A Lifetime of Trauma
By Wilsdaryon Prescher

This Is Me Trying: Navigating Through A Lifetime of Trauma is a work of non-fiction in the memoir subgenre. It is aimed at mature readers and was penned by author Wilsdaryon Prescher. 

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

The book follows the author’s recovery from the abuse he endured in his youth, a journey made possible by the power of music. Throughout the rocky road of escaping the abuse, developing coping mechanisms that hindered more than they helped, and encountering the biases that people hold against abuse survivors, the power of music provides a tool for the author to rediscover their authentic self and move forward into adulthood.

I’m always in awe of any author penning a memoir, especially one willing to show sincere emotional vulnerability to their readers, but sometimes an author leaves nothing off the table when describing the upsetting and painful parts of their lives. Such an author is Wilsdaryon Prescher, whose willingness to frankly portray some of the most challenging situations a young person can live through is matched deftly by his skillful prose in doing justice to the depiction of those moments.

This book is an emotional journey that readers will be moved by as they experience the hardships of the author’s younger years and the rocky road to happiness that came with adulthood. Overall, This Is Me Trying is an honest depiction of the never-ending struggle toward recovery and a book that frankly depicts mental health issues and the journey to better mental and emotional well-being, wherever your starting point in life may be. Highly suggest reading!


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Lovers’ Secrets and Revenge

(Book Three – John Callahan Series) By Elizabeth Upton
Lovers’ Secrets and Revenge is a crime mystery romance novel by Elizabeth Upton.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite

Lovers’ Secrets and Revenge is a crime mystery romance novel by Elizabeth Upton. It’s been ten years since John Callahan had last seen his grandmother, Annabella O’Sullivan. Upon a visit to her sprawling estate in Dublin, Ireland, John is delivered a striking blow when his grandmother dies, and he is her sole heir.

His grandmother’s death and the unexpected murder of an employee force him to hire private security guards for himself and Morgan Gallagher, Annabella’s lover. Additionally, his recently inherited estate has a break-in by an armed man. Meanwhile, John starts falling for an Irish woman named Sara O’Boyle. But when one of his own employees becomes his stalker, John must find a way to protect himself and his loved ones. Who is the killer? Is John’s life in danger?

An absorbing murder mystery filled with romance, suspense, and intrigue, Lovers’ Secrets and Revenge is a cozy book to spend your evening with. Author Elizabeth Upton spins an intricate yarn full of dramatic moments that have you eagerly turning the pages in anticipation of what will happen next. The narrative will especially appeal to fans of telenovelas or soap operas, with the constant twists and turns of the plot leaving you asking for more. The characters have defining traits that pop out of the pages. John is one of the more fleshed-out characters, and his romance with Sara is one of my favorite aspects of the book.
If you enjoy romance and crime stories, this is what you’re looking for.


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A Crime Story
A Mother-Daughter Cozy Mystery ~ By Richard E. LaMotte

A Crime Story: A Mother-Daughter Cozy Mystery by Richard E. LaMotte is a light-hearted thriller about a mother and daughter...


Reviewed by Antoinette Wessels for Readers’ Favorite

A Crime Story: A Mother-Daughter Cozy Mystery by Richard E. LaMotte is a light-hearted thriller about a mother and daughter who get stuck in a small town with a murder mystery on their way to Hollywood. Clair and Mindy decide to start investigating the unsolved murder of Samantha and write a crime story to pass the time.

They soon realize that everyone in town has their theory about what happened, but Mindy is set on uncovering the truth in memory of Samantha. It doesn’t take long for their snooping to start annoying the wrong people, and accidents start to happen. Will they be able to answer the unanswered questions, or will Samantha’s murder always stay a small-town mystery?

Richard E. LaMotte wrote A Crime Story in a way that will have anyone, even readers who don’t enjoy thrillers or mysteries, loving this light-hearted mystery immensely. It is not overly elaborate, is easy to read, and even easier to enjoy. The theme which stuck with me as a reader was the relationship between a mother and a daughter who needed to find each other again.

They grew as characters while they were investigating the murder, and through this, they could also reconnect. The pace of the story is gentle. I enjoyed the fact that the book wasn’t more than two hundred pages, but it never felt rushed.

I would recommend this book to any reader who wants a quick, enjoyable fall read with adventure and a little suspense.


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Dark Secrets of the Bayou
By Multi award-winning writer Kim Carter

Dark Secrets of the Bayou is a work of fiction in the murder mystery genre. It is aimed at all ages and was penned by author Kim Carter. 

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

Dark Secrets of the Bayou is a work of fiction in the murder mystery genre. It is aimed at all ages and was penned by author Kim Carter. The novel follows the homecoming of attorney Tink Mabry as she visits Kane, Louisiana, with a co-worker to deal with the dilapidated homestead she’s just inherited from a family she barely knows. No sooner has she arrived than she ends up as the prime suspect in multiple murder investigations. As Tink explores her new surroundings, she realizes that the family secrets that plague her inheritance may hold the key to exonerating her, though some things are best left in the past.

Author Kim Carter has crafted a sinister and spine-tingling work of dark mystery fiction, an ideal read for a cold winter’s night. This story combined many elements and genres that I adore, from the historical references to the 19th century and the creepy, dark expanses of the Louisiana bayous, to chilling, horror, and family drama elements. The complex plot interweaves all of these factors seamlessly, delivering a smoothly-told narrative with sharp, exciting deviations in the mystery plot.

It certainly kept me guessing until the end, and the close narration of Tink and her emotional journey really got me rooting for her (and fearing for her) as the story developed. Overall, I would highly recommend Dark Secrets of the Bayou for those who enjoy a dark mystery with lots of horror elements and a spellbinding atmosphere. This was a worthy introduction to an author worth reading again and again.


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Daily Gratitude Reflections Volume 2

365 Inspirational Guides to Grateful Living
By Deborah L. Perdue

Daily Gratitude Reflections Volume 2: 365 Inspirational Guides to Grateful Living is a work of non-fiction in the new age, spiritual, and self-help subgenres.


Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

Daily Gratitude Reflections Volume 2: 365 Inspirational Guides to Grateful Living is a work of non-fiction in the new age, spiritual, and self-help subgenres. It is suitable for the general reading audience and was penned by author Deborah L. Perdue. The book lays out a year-long series of prompts to allow readers to reflect on their lives and feel gratitude for their positive things. This shift in focus away from negativity is shown to have a transformative effect on how a person perceives their life and leads to a more positive outlook and acceptance of happiness.

It often feels that cynicism is the dominating force in this world, and it is a negative mindset that seeps its way into every aspect of our lives if we give it the opportunity. Leading the charge against this force are writers like author Deborah L. Perdue who recognize that the daily practice of gratitude can push back against negativity and the adverse effect that it has on our lives. Perdue, in particular, is an outstanding practitioner in this field, demonstrated by this essential book which helps readers to take daily, manageable steps toward a lifelong change for the better.

The daily exercises on reflection and positivity are easy to pick up but provoke deep thought and contemplation about our lives, the perfect exercise for encouraging gratitude in our lives. Overall, Daily Gratitude Reflections Volume 2 follows its predecessor in giving readers an invaluable toolset for pushing their mindset in the right direction and making long-lasting changes for the better in their lives.
I highly recommend it!


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The Song of Ramon and Maria

An Epic Historical Novel of Love and Revenge
By Richard E. LaMotte

The Song of Ramon and Maria by Richard E. LaMotte is an epic romance novel set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution at the dawn of the 20th century.

Another New Release and 5-Stars for Richard!

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers’ Favorite

The Song of Ramon and Maria by Richard E. LaMotte is an epic romance novel set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution at the dawn of the 20th century. Despite misgivings from her family, Maria Duranthon marries the love of her life, Ramon, an Indian cowboy, in the small Mexican town of Rosario. But when Ramon is drafted into the Mexican army, and Maria’s father is unexpectedly murdered, the two lovers will diverge toward very different paths in life.

After suffering a harrowing assault by a despicable captain, Maria leaves for Mexico City, realizing, to her horror, that she is pregnant. She is forced to beg on the streets until she finds refuge in the bordello of a European madame. Meanwhile, Ramon joins the revolutionaries while being hunted by the federal forces. Can Ramon and Maria find their way back to each other?

A sprawling tale of love, loss, and betrayal, The Song of Ramon and Maria never lets you take your eyes off the pages. Author Richard E. LaMotte weaves an epic yarn filled with romance, tragedy, and political intrigue that keeps you on your toes with a string of twists and turns you never see coming. This story is full of heartbreak, where our heroes sacrifice themselves for the greater good.

Ramon and Maria are two star-crossed lovers who find themselves separated from each other due to extraordinary circumstances they have no control over. If you love to read epic romance sagas or historical fiction, I can’t recommend The Song of Ramon and Maria enough.


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More Books To Check Out on Amazon!


Sister Mysteries
by Claudia Ricci 


Seeing Red
by Claudia Ricci 













Cat Welcomes New Author Patricia Mortlock. She Is An Animal Empath Who Offers Pet Readings & Shares Her Work Communicating With Animals In Her New Book, “Animals Speak”. . .

Catherine Lyon - Expert Marketing & Media PR Consultant A Writer's Thoughts, Author News, Book Award News, Book Review, Featured Guest, New Book & Author Press Release, News Around The Web, Updates and More , , , , , , , , ,



Cat is excited and happy to introduce and share to all my friends of the reading den a new emerging author Ms. Patricia Mortlock and her new book release that has just been awarded a 5-Star Editorial Book Review given by book influencers, Reader’s Favorite. Pat is an exceptional woman with all that she does with animals, pets, and their owners around the country.

Patricia has learned, studied, and honed her skills in animal communication. She offers pet readings for owners of many types of pets and animals. Much of her life’s work as a Reikie Master and animal communication is now shared within her new book release titled, Animals Speak: Communication with Animals – Both Living and in Spirit . . . So, let’s learn more about Pat and more about her new book!


Genre: Animal Care & Pets

Animals Speak: Communication with Animals – Both Living and in Spirit

by Patricia Mortlock Author (Author)


“We only underestimate animals because of the language barrier.“

Intuition is a gift. We all have it. Patricia Mortlock’s has been refined to such an extent that communicating and understanding messages from animals is a trait that comes naturally to her. I was amazed at her ability as I read the many stories in which she helped both grieving pet owners and the pets as well in passing important messages to one another. If a reader is a skeptic of the intuitive world, this book might help educate that person.

— Zoe J, Reader/Reviewer




Book Description:

What if I told you, “I just heard of a book that talks about animals that are able to communicate.

In fact, believe it or not, one offers marriage advice hoping to save a marriage in trouble. Another pet dies of a sudden heart attack, and takes his owner’s heart problems with him.” You might say “I love reading fiction; it’s so entertaining.” I would have to tell you, “It’s not fiction!” I have met with these pets and others with equally compelling stories.

We only underestimate animals because of the language barrier. When that is gone, the gap closes between us, and we realize they are capable of intelligent thinking and a very deep emotional range.

Come along and be amazed as you read about so-called ordinary pets who break all the rules and break out of the boxes we have put them in! NOW Available on Amazon


ABOUT THE AUTHOR ~ Patricia Mortlock


Patricia Mortlock is the author of her new book titled Animals Speak: Communication with Animals – Both Living and in Spirit, a beautifully written book of her shared life experiences and work as an animal communicator. Her book is available in paperback and e-book versions and is now available on Amazon online, Kindle Unlimited, and many fine book sites.

Patricia has been speaking and communicating with animals since she was a child. Born and raised in Southern California, Patricia attended college and majored in business then began working in the field of interior design. She was intuitively sent to San Diego, where she met and married her soul mate of 25-years and counting. Settling in Ventura county, Patricia is naturally gifted in the area of intuition. Her earliest recollection of her intuition was at the age of five as she communicated with her pet Ginger who was transitioning into spirit.

Patricia is a Reiki Master and uses her skills with animals and people to help heal physical and mental pain. She has studied with Carolyn Myss and many others in the field of intuitive development. She enjoys teaching classes on Animal Communication and the principles involved in being an empath, teaching meditation techniques, and helping students identify how they uniquely receive intuitive information.

The author enjoys being involved in women’s groups that believe in a strong-ethical bond to the planet, its animals, and all people. Patricia wants readers to know the importance and the depth of what the animals have to say. Whether they are living or within the spirit, they will often give us insight into why they have come into our lives. The information is often a source of “heart-opening” between the pet and its family while supplying insight into their owners’ lives.

When she is not working or teaching, Patricia loves tending to her little Bonsai garden and spending time at the ocean, and time with family, friends, her husband Jeff, along with their fur baby Billy the CAT.
They continue to reside in Southern California in Ventura County.

Patricia’s New E-book is Available for Kindle Unlimited Members Too!



Patricia has just been awarded a 5-Star Editorial Book Review given by literary book influencers, Reader’s Favorite! The CAT can not be more proud and happy for Patricia! We are having a blast working together. Here is the beautiful Book Review and Press Release provided by Reader’s Favorite for “Animals Speak.”



For immediate release:

The author’s new book receives a warm literary welcome.

Readers’ Favorite announces the review of the Non-Fiction – Animals book “Animals Speak” by Patricia Mortlock, currently available at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09WW6T538.

Readers’ Favorite is one of the most extensive book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the “Best Websites for Authors” and “Honoring Excellence” awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies.

“Reviewed By Lois J Wickstrom for Readers’ Favorite

Patricia Mortlock loves animals. She tells about their lives in much the same way as the Chicken Soup animal-lover stories. Animals Speak: Communication with Animals – Both Living and in Spirit is different from Chicken Soup in one important aspect: Mortlock is an ‘intuitive.’ You don’t have to believe that she is an ‘intuitive’ to enjoy and have a good cry over these tales. But you do have to understand that she believes it.

This collection of tales about elephants, cats, dogs, horses, and even a lizard features communication not only in words but also in pictures and emotions. Her stories are about animals who have come into our lives not only to love us, but to teach us and care for us, and in several instances heal their humans or save their marriages. Some of these animals speak to Mortlock when she focuses on their pictures. Some are alive and some are “in spirit.”

People sometimes think they don’t understand their pets. They don’t know why their animals do certain things. Sometimes they just want to know what their animals are thinking. Patricia Mortlock has developed her intuition in such a way that she can help people get to know their animals better. Animals Speak: Communication with Animals – Both Living and in Spirit answers some of those questions, and offers guidance for readers who want to develop their own intuition. Mortlock’s stories inspire the reader to deepen his or her relationship with the animals in their lives.

I was particularly impressed with her story about hearing a horse explain what he needed to recover from a disease. If you love animals, this book will increase your appreciation for their presence in our lives and the friendships that they offer. This is the story of a heartfelt connection between a human and the animals she meets.”

You can learn more about Patricia Mortlock and “Animals Speak” at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/animals-speak where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.

Readers’ Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202
800-RF-REVIEW
https://readersfavorite.com

***** ***** ***** ****** ****** ******

I truly hope you have enjoyed learning about our newest author to our reading den family of authors that CAT is honored to work with. Patricia has such a beautiful soul and a big heart when it comes to pets and animal care. The stories she has chosen to share with readers will not only inspire you, or even tug at your heart, but you will actually FEEL the positive energy and kindness she puts out in the world through this amazing new book of hers! Grab your copy today on Amazon.

Visit author: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon,

You may connect with Patricia on her Social Media and I highly suggest giving her website a visit too! Pat does offer pet and animal readings. You may email her for a reading of your fur babies!
EMAIL: pat.mortlock@yahoo.com

Cat Welcomes Our Award-Winning Author Diane Olsen Sharing News, Her New Award, a New Release Coming & a Sneak Peek Cover Reveal of Her Book Four…And Why You Need To Read the “Rising Wind” Book Series.

Catherine Lyon - Expert Marketing & Media PR Consultant A Writer's Thoughts, Author News, Book Award News, Book Review, Featured Guest, News Around The Web, Posts , , , , , , , , ,



Welcome Readers and Friends to a Special Guest Spotlight, Cover Reveal, and News for Award-winning author Diane Olsen.

CAT is very excited to announce and share some literary award news for my friend and fellow author Diane Olsen! Diane has just been awarded her second Bronze Medal, given by the Illumination Book Awards by Jenkins Group, Inc.

This is her second win but her first win for her ‘Rising Wind book series‘ with book three titled “The Weeping God and The Book of Hope.” I am just thrilled for Diane. So we are celebrating with a Sneak Peek Cover Reveal for Book Four of the Rising Wind series! But before I do? Here is more about Diane’s award-win in the category of Mystery/Thriller…

By Jenkins Group


Book Three – Rising Wind Series


BRONZE ~ Mystery/Thriller ~ https://illuminationawards.com/19/2022-medalists

Rising Wind: The Weeping God and The Book of Hope

by Diane Olsen

*(Lyon Literary Services) ~ Publicist*

Illumination Bronze Seal - 250 Roll
Diane’s Bronze Win!

Illumination Bronze Seal

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2022 MEDALISTS!

THANK YOU TO ALL THE EXCELLENT AUTHORS WHO ENTERED THEIR INSPIRING BOOKS IN THE 2022 AWARDS.

*** *** *** *** *** *** ****

Now, before Cat gets to the Cover Reveal, I want to share the amazing Reader’s Favorite 5-Star Awarded Book Review Diane received from them. The reviewer did a fantastic review that actually sums up the Rising Wind Book Series from reading book one, The Thunder Beings, then book two, Ice and Bone, and book three that she has just won the Bronze Medal titled The Weeping God and The Book of Hope.

Diane’s books to this series can be read as stand-alone’s, or for a richer reading experience, you can read them in consecutive order. Either way, readers are going to love reading this series. Even though the series is fictional, Diane adds so many real facts and real information from her research to each book. And many different topics and elements like comparisons of world religions, how all humanity is connected, the hope of mankind, elements of archeology and paleontology, extinct beings and animals, and so much more! Here is how the Reviewer Summed up Rising Wind…

Books two and three of Rising Wind


Book Review By Reader’s Favorite of Rising Wind and Book Three:

The Weeping God and the Book of Hope, part three in the Rising Wind series, is actually a prequel to the first two books, so it’s not necessary to have read those first.

The lead characters, Sage Dalton and L.W. are the main character’s parents in the other Rising Wind books. Although the characters are different and it is set in an earlier time period, the tone of the book is very similar. This time they discover an ancient text in a Mexican desert tomb that leads Sage, L.W., and a group of fellow explorers to Tibet, where they find themselves in the middle of a war. Even with danger at every turn, they still manage to discover secret caves that lead them toward an elusive yet powerful Book of Hope.

First and foremost, her books have a superb cast of characters that readers can easily relate to. They care about each other, work together to achieve a common goal, laugh together, and cry together. Second, her stories revolve around rare ancient discoveries found all around the world. Much like the great Indiana Jones films, each new discovery comes with an element of danger.

The third common theme is an embracing of all world religions. Religion is somehow intertwined with each rare find that the characters make. I appreciate the way Ms. Olsen always characterizes the religious elements in her stories in a positive light, as the hope of mankind rather than the way most works of fiction portray religion in a negative sense as mankind’s biggest problem. This is a fun read filled with colorful characters and lots of action. I recommend it for fans of character-driven adventure who like to learn about science, ancient civilizations, and world religions along the way.
~Scott Cahan for Readers’ Favorite

Award-Winning Author
Ms. Diane Olsen



Diane Olsen’s New Cover Reveal For Book Four Coming Very Soon For Release and will be titled Rising Wind: Book 4, Like Feathers Of A Wing”… Book Description (may change a little before release).

About This Soon To Release Book Four:

Experience the spiritual, social, and cultural evolution of humanity in the fourth book in the Rising Wind series by Diane Olsen. She demonstrates through extensive research that humanity is interconnected. A treasure to celebrate, no matter what culture or faith we represent. We are as one… ‘Like Feathers of a Wing.’

Embarking on what appears to be an impossible project, the couple endeavors to struggle forward on their mission to help build shelters for the homeless and capture sustainable water in the desert. Be mesmerized by the wide array of strange and dangerous creatures that cross Gideon and Secora’s path. 
Will death take one or all their treasured friends? Will anyone travel this journey unscathed? 

Are you ready for another amazing mystery thrill ride through fiction and history, READERS?

Stop by often, as Cat will announce soon when this one is released!



Connect With Diane on Social Media Today and All Her Books Are Available on Amazon in E-book and Paperback versions here>>> https://www.amazon.com/Diane-Olsen/e/B01LWDB4K7/ …
 Website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon

Releasing Soon on Amazon and Kindle!

Author Spotlight & Sneak Preview Courtesy of Dawn Hill Publications For Ravina Hilliard’s Soon to Release Book. . .

Catherine Lyon - Expert Marketing & Media PR Consultant A Writer's Thoughts, Author News, Book Award News, Featured Guest, New Book & Author Press Release, News Around The Web, Updates and More , , , , , , , , ,


“WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE”

Written By Award-winning Author Ravina Hilliard
A Dawn Hill Publication Author



This CAT always enjoy sharing new books when they are ready to release soon and when readers to get a ‘Sneak Peek’ before it drops! Dawn Hill has done it again with their amazing award-winning author, Ms. Ravina Hilliard and her book titled “The Billionaire Athlete”…


~The Avid Reading Cat


It’s been my endeavor to ensure variety in my protagonists, not that the task is easy. Billionaires tend to come in very few shapes and sizes, not literally of course. Most of them are scions of industry. Then again, we have actors from my soon to be published books – like Patrick Townsend from ‘Looking for Like’ and a race car driver Dean Winters from ‘All You Have To Do Is Call’.

The publishers have asked me to write one with a sports star. The choices are aplenty. Aforementioned Dean Winters is one candidate, but the truth is that he isn’t an F1 driver in the story, rather it is his back story. He is actually a manufacturer of e-vehicles. I know some of you are going … yawn.


“They tend to be hot-headed. Drama queens – and very good actors, not to mention artful manipulators.”


If I were to invest in a sporty character, what sport would I choose? And what got me thinking about it?

Let’s answer the second question first. Summer in the Europe provides fodder in abundance from Wimbledon, French Open in Tennis, Tour de France, the Euro cup which England sadly lost despite a stellar performance and ICC World Cricket championship which New Zealand won. Watching Tom Cruise hob-nob with David Beckham on Centre Court got me started. The same day, watching the Euro Cup finals not too far away in Wembley nailed it for me.

Tom Cruise spotted at Wimbledon this year.


If I were to choose, I’d probably choose football or as the Americans like to call it, soccer. Why? First, it gives me an opportunity to write about another Italian billionaire, with Italy winning the Euro Cup. The female leading lady could be a British WAG wannabe who is seeking payback for England’s loss.


We all know footballers have their own currency printing press, not literally, but each of their contracts run into tens of millions of pounds. Add to that sponsorship and ad revenue and bingo – you have yourself a billionaire. There aren’t too many of them around – Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo being two of them. Technically, net worth’s are shy of a billion but who’s counting?

Giroud is a prime example of an incredibly attractive athlete. Loaded, and wears the hell out of that suit!



There are plenty of other reasons. Athletes, footballers in particular are fit. Not going to the gym three times a week fit. I can run around chasing a ball for 90 odd minutes fit. Most of the players in the latest Euro cup were still strutting around after two hours. They tend to be hot-headed. Drama queens – and very good actors, not to mention artful manipulators.


Have you seen them fake injuries on the field in order to earn a free kick? There are a few Oscar-worthy performances in all the big matches. They’re large-hearted, passionate (at least about football) and players for the most part – in a decidedly sexual way.


My hero would be a nasty piece of work on the outside – hard-headed Alpha Male who is as rich as God, arrogant, overbearing, physically rough-edged but later will reveal a gooey and tender heart. His language would be foul. At first, he’d treat the female lead like a bit of shit – remember The Billionaire Needs a Bodyguard? 


Then, our hero would fall in love after some TLC from the vengeful WAG who maybe, just maybe is into some light S&M. Our Bitch would spring the trap, leaving our footie hero devastated when he realizes that she’s been gaming him.

The Billionaire Needs a Bodyguard Kindle Edition


How do I get them back together? Hmm. Let me think about that. Most certainly, there’d be a match or two in the play. Where do the thrills come from? Oh, just wait and see. I’m not going to give the whole plot away, but I will leave you with a hint. Think corruption scandal, match-fixing (oh yeah, it does happen, even in football), and football hooligans – remember Green Street? Our WAG is going to get beaten up. Badly.

And here’s the icing on the cake. I’ve yet to see an ugly footballer. They’re all handsome, sexy, tidy, gorgeous hunks of masculinity with my fingers now itching to create a thriller romance with one of them. I can imagine in my mind’s eye the cold-hearted calculating British bitch of a ex-WAG targeting an Italian footballer and falling into his love-cum-lust trap, inconceivably finding a Happily-Ever-After. My mouth is already drooling. And ladies, there are other parts that are also … okay, let’s keep it U-Rated for now.

And let me get to work.

Sigh. With a saddened heart I bid you goodbye, but only for the moment.

Hope you’ve enjoyed reading this as much as I’ve enjoyed writing it.

“Cheers!”

~Ravina

Check out all all her newer releases now on Amazon!
https://www.amazon.com/Ravina-Hilliard/e/B089K1K8HN?ref
Stop by and see all the exceptional authors of Dawn Hill Publications today!
https://dawnhillpublications.com/authors/



New Release Alert: Award-Winning Author Shawna James Releases Book 2 of Her “They Loved Collection” ~ “As It Should Be” With An E-book Sale.

Catherine Lyon - Expert Marketing & Media PR Consultant A Writer's Thoughts, Author News, Book Award News, Book Review, Featured Guest, New Book & Author Press Release, News Around The Web, Posts, Updates and More , , , , , , , ,


They Loved Collection



Despite the Devil (They Loved Collection Book 1)

by Shawna James (Author)
Kindle Edition

From Book 1:
“Stephanie gazed at Andrew’s clean-shaven, long and slender face. His dark green eyes were captivating. His brown hair was neatly combed to the side. His eyebrows were thick and kind of joined in the middle, and his nose looked even sharper from the angle at which Stephanie was now looking at him. Girl, he’s handsome! Stephanie thought, And that accent!“

When Stephanie meets Andrew Simmons, she believes she’s found the perfect man: smart, handsome, kind, and athletic. Best of all, the Norwegian former soldier is as interested in her as she is in him. But as their romance begins to blossom, Stephanie learns that Andrew’s past could haunt their life together. His dangerous earlier life may destroy the happiness the two of them share. Will Stephanie and Andrew’s fairytale be strong enough to resist the wickedness from Andrew’s former life?

Winner of the Canada Book Awards!



As It Should Be (They Loved Collection Book 2)

by Shawna James (Author)
Kindle Edition

From Book 2:
Andrew and his wife, Stephanie, thought they had bought their safety and freedom. Just as they had settled into an idyllic life in Norway, the table turn again, into a living nightmare. They are forced to move back to Canada and run through yet another convoluted maze.

Upon arriving back to the country in which they met, a man in a blue Jetta begins following Stephanie and their daughters.  Can Andrew protect his family from the looming threats?  And who is following Stephanie?  Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, Andrew and Stephanie stay positive and strong for their daughters, hoping that someday the curse will be lifted.


Book 2 Released and Written By Shawna James



About The Award-Winning Author:

Shawna James is an Award-Winning Canadian Author & Writer of her book series “They Loved Collection.” Her debut novel “Despite the Devil” was released in November of 2020 and won the Canada Book Awards, and awarded a 5-star review by Readers Favorite; she quickly began gaining romance reader fans from around the world. The second book, titled “As It Should Be,” was released in July 2021 for all her reader fans and is available on Amazon books, Amazon Kindle, Kobo, iBooks, Audible, B&N, and many fine books book stores.

Shawna, a Canadian Author, holds a master’s degree in education and works as a university instructor, fueling the bright minds of her students.
When she is not writing in her favorite coffee shop or instructing, she enjoys the great outdoors and loves hiking with her puppies. Shawna also travels abroad, is an avid reader, spending time with family, and enjoys watching her favorite football games on Sunday afternoons. She continues to reside in the BC/Vancouver, Canada, area.

The Author welcomes readers, publishers, and agents to visit her Official Author Website for her author news, updates, new releases and is open to interviews, radio shows, and podcasts as a guest author.



The Book Reviews That Are Coming In For Book One of The Collection Are Amazing!



A 5-STAR AMAZING BOOK REVIEW GIVEN BY READERS FAVORITE

An image posted by the author.


Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

Despite The Devil is a work of fiction in the women’s fiction, contemporary romance, and interpersonal drama sub-genres, and was penned by author Shawna James. This compelling and emotional tale focuses on the central couple Stephanie and Andrew, whose initial romance seems ideal and a true match made in heaven.

But Andrew has skeletons in the closet from old mistakes, and both he and Stephanie always have one eye on the past, consumed by the fear that it might come to destroy their future. What results is a poignant, romantic, and emotional tale about finding love and fighting for it, with faith and perseverance.

Author Shawna James has crafted a romantic drama that delivers clean content suitable for readers of all sensitivities, and with a deep sense of passion and devotion from its central pairing. More than this, the work smacks of realism thanks to the grounding of the characters and their realistic dialogue. When faced with adversity they react in ways that we as readers can really relate to, and it compels us to go with them every step of the way on their journey.

One of the things I particularly liked about the work was the plot structure, which keeps things interesting as different elements being revealed. We get some great highs and lows as we see how Andrew and Stephanie deal with the bumps on the road. Overall, I would certainly recommend Despite The Devil for its realistic approach to contemporary drama. A well-written work indeed.


Readers can Connect with Author Shawna James on Social Media and for news and updates, visit give her website a visit… Visit author: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon, Pinterest



Author & Advocate Receives Warm Welcome From Readers Favorite With a 5-Star Book Review! Tony Kelly & His New Book, “Red Card: A Bet You Can Win!

Catherine Lyon - Expert Marketing & Media PR Consultant A Writer's Thoughts, Author News, Book Award News, Book Review, Book Review Post, Featured Guest



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Author’s new book receives a warm literary welcome.

Readers’ Favorite announces the review of the Non-Fiction – Biography book “Red Card: A Bet You Can Win!” by Tony Kelly, currently available at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1528970578.

Readers’ Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the “Best Websites for Authors” and “Honoring Excellence” awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies.

“Reviewed By Edith Wairimu for Readers’ Favorite

“Red Card: A Bet You Can Win! documents the fascinating journey of a UK former professional (soccer) football player, Tony Kelly, including his struggle with gambling and his experiences with racism. Kelly was born in 1966 and grew up in Coventry, UK. His family, especially his twin brother Mel, remains a constant source of support for him. At the time, he saw football not only as his ticket to a better life but as his escape from the streets of Coventry that were marked by frequent cases of racist attacks and violence.

Unfortunately, these would not be his last encounters with racism. Kelly went on to achieve football stardom playing for clubs such as Stoke City, Leyton Orient, Bury FC, and Swedish club, Gimonais CK, even playing at Wembley Stadium in 1992. Despite his success in football, his career was marred by a costly addiction to gambling.

Red Card: A Bet You Can Win! by Tony Kelly is a story of hope and redemption. It paints a shocking but realistic picture of the cost of gambling. Kelly explains how he gradually got into overwhelming debt and how the problem cost him his football career and his long-term relationship. He later decided to get professional help and now assists others affected by gambling through his support project, Red Card.

Other important topics arise in the book including the existence of racism in football and other areas. Without his twin brother playing alongside him, Kelly felt isolated. In school, he also faced racism from other students. The book shares important lessons for aspiring and professional players. Red Card: A Bet You Can Win! is a memoir that contains impactful lessons from a former professional footballer.”

You can learn more about Tony Kelly and “Red Card: A Bet You Can Win!” at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/red-card where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.

Readers’ Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202 ~ support@readersfavorite.com
https://readersfavorite.com
***************************************************



Tony Kelly, Former Pro UK Soccer Star
Now Author, Speaker, CEO of RED CARD


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tony Kelly is a former KU professional (footballer) soccer star who played for six teams within his nine-year career. He is also a recovering gambling addict. In his first book, Tony wrote and shared his story in “Red Card: The Soccer Star Who Lost It All To Gambling” in 2013. Now has released his much anticipated second book titled “Red Card: A Bet You Can Win!” in April 2021, published by Austin Macauley Publishers and is available on Amazon Kindle, Amazon Books, Barnes & Noble, and other fine online book stores in both the UK and USA.

Tony was crazy about (UK Football) soccer from the age of seven. At sixteen, he was the youngest player ever on the first team at Bristol City, UK. In his twenties, Tony turned professional and went on to play for clubs such as Stoke City, Cardiff City, Leyton Orient, and Bury in the second and third divisions of the Soccer (Football) League. He also enjoyed playing for a team in Sweden.

In 2015, Tony founded the ‘Red Card Gambling Support Project’ (Non-Profit), sharing prevention of problem gambling and addiction with individual one on one therapy, awareness, prevention, educational workshops throughout London.

Tonys’ work has grown to become well-respected within the gambling harm reduction and prevention sector throughout the United Kingdom.

Born Nyrere Anthony Kelly in England, Tony resides in London; his books are his journey of ‘Redemption and Recovery’ as he is living proof that this is a Bet You Can Win!

Connect With Tony On Social Media

Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, Linkedin