Author Spotlight on Hannah Howe, Best-Selling Author of the Sam Smith Mystery Series.

It was a pleasure for me to interview Hannah Howe,international and best-selling author of the Sam Smith Mystery Series.
Sam's Song, book one in the series, reached number one on the amazon.com private detective chart and the top twenty in ten other countries).

Stardust, the story of one woman's dream and hopes for the future. is the tenth book in the Sam Smith Mystery Series.

Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Hannah Howe.
I live in Glamorgan, Wales with my long-term partner and our two children.

When and why did you begin writing?

I began writing at school when my teacher asked me to write the school play.
I was around nine or ten at the time and I've been writing ever since.
I write because it comes naturally to me. For as long as I can remember, writing has been an essential part of my day.

What inspired you to write your first book?

I actually wrote six novels before I published Sam's Song.
Those novels remain unpublished and I regard them as my apprenticeship.
The inspiration for Sam's Song arrived when I decided to write about a female private detective.
I love mystery fiction so it seemed natural to write about my own detective.

Do you have a specific writing style?

I do.
My natural writing style is similar to Robert B Parker's, by that I mean I'm a minimalist writer - I don't go in for long, descriptive passages. Instead, I prefer short sentences.
I think this style suits the private detective novel in general.

What books have most influenced your life most? a mentor?

A turning point for me was reading Robert B Parker's Promised Land.
As I read the story I realized several things: that the story was similar to ideas I'd been developing, that my writing style was similar to Mr. Parker's and that this was the moment to take my writing seriously.

What are your current projects?

At the moment, I'm editing Mind Games, book eleven in the Sam Smith Mystery Series, while collaborating with my narrator on Secrets and Lies, book six, for our audio book.

I'm also researching the background for Digging in the Dirt, book twelve in my series.

Do you have any advice for other writers?

Write about what you know and what you believe in.
Be true to yourself.

Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I love music, especially the music of the 1960s and 1970s, playing chess and researching my family history.

What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I love the classic movies and TV shows of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, especially the mystery and detective shows.
My favourites include a movie called Laura, Dog Day Afternoon and The Third Man.
With TV my favourites include The Rockford Files, Colombo and MASH.

Favorite foods

Like Sam, my narrator, I'm a vegetarian, so I love salads and potato-based meals.
One of my characters, Faye, is a domestic goddess when it comes to preparing cakes and trifles.
When I was pregnant with my eldest I had a craving for trifle and it is still one of my favourite sweets.

Please visit and feel free to contact Hannah about her books at her Website
and on Facebook

Revenge of Zeeka Series Book 1 to 5 at Bargain Prices

Friends, the first book in the Revenge of Zeeka Series is a best seller and the Kindle version is FREE.

Get it now.Amazon Universal Link

THe other four books are all 0.99 cents each in Kindle.

Watch the Video Trailers for each one below.

Author Spotlight on Kelly Artieri

Today I had the pleasure of interviewing one of the newest members of the Real Lives Team, a sub-group of Books Go Social.
Kelly Artieri lives with her family in western New York.
Pets have always been an important part of her life.
Though not a dog professional, she welcomes them into her home as family members, most recently with her deaf Dalmatian.

Bio

Hi! I am Kelly Artieri.
I think the first paragraph of the book is as much my biography as any other words I could offer.
My name is Kelly.
I own a Dalmatian named Vinnie.
Vinnie is deaf.
Vinnie has made a spot in my heart and changed my life forever.
I am not a veterinarian, nor a dog trainer or any kind of animal professional.
I am just a normal, using that term loosely, just an average Joe who loves dogs and welcomes them into my life.
When faced with the decision to accept a special needs dog into my home, I made the statement, “how hard can it be if you love them lots.”

Tell us about your book

My book shares the heartwarming true story of my life with a bilaterally deaf Dalmatian.
Learning to communicate without hearing can be a challenge.
While learning to navigate the soundless world around him, Vinnie's responses to his training were alternatively heartwarming and hilarious.
A Spot in My Heart is a story of overcoming obstacles and never giving up.


Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Everyone deserves a chance to live a life filled with love and acceptance.


When and why did you begin writing?

I wrote this book quite by accident, but now embrace it as an amazing legacy for the dog who taught me to live and love in his world.
After losing Vinnie, all the people who helped us along our path asked that I find a way to share our experiences and research, to tell Vinnie’s story.
I began journaling my notes as a therapeutic exercise, and before I realized it, I had created a manuscript.


Do you have a specific writing style?

I am a story teller.
I write like I talk, directly to the reader, and I speak from the heart with a tad of smart ass all mixed in.
Take that and mix in a topic that I am passionate about and you have A Spot In My Heart.

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

The people who motivated me are just folks like me who love animals.
They helped us a great deal and continue to help others.
My message along with theirs is that these not so perfect animals are not “throw-away” animals to be disposed of because of their imperfections. They are meant to be loved and I found that I learned as much as I taught.

Other than writing do you have any hobbies?

I am a medical illustrator by degree, but currently, am working in IT.
I live on beautiful Lake Ontario with my husband and daughter.
I enjoy boating and spending time with family and friends.
I have been blessed with amazing people in my life both with two legs and four.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I now enjoy sharing my family’s story at book signings meeting new people who enjoy listening and discussing.
One of the most humbling things I have experienced through all of this is being called an author!
What an amazing experience it has been and I am finding that I have a written voice that I want people to hear.


NB

This is Kelly's first book, but she has a creative voice and an amazing story to tell.


Connect with Kelly at:


Facebook Author Page

Twitter

Buy her Book at Amazon

Journey of an Educator

Book Description



Do you know that at one time Education was not a priority?
Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan: Journey of an Educator, is the historical memoir of an Educator.

It was indeed a struggle for the young teacher Andrew, but he overcame all obstacles and became a trailblazer in Education in his country climbing the ladder from classroom management to school principal.and superintendent.
Later in life, he became a Presiding Elder in his church and preached many sermons, some of which are appended to his biography.
His story is both motivational and inspiring.

An Amazon Reviewer stated, "The book in its lifelike and meaningful way depicts the story of a great man, a true exemplar, a national hero."


TOP REVIEWS

AN INSPIRATION TO ALL
ByJosephine Calabrese on February 22, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan: Journey of an Educator
Brenda Mohammed

Reading of Dr. Andrew Moonir's youth, life as an educator and church leader, I have come to know this man as a decent man, individual of good character, and a man who thought, planned out, and in a step-by-step process persevered to achieve his goals. Great men aren't forgotten and all learn from such men.

If a documentary hasn't been done on Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan's Life, his life should be filmed in a documentary. He is an inspiration.

Josephine Calabrese
Writer, Lyricist, Publisher, and Teacher



5.0 out of 5 starsA remarkable man.
By L.K on January 30, 2015
Format: Paperback|Verified Purchase
Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Mooonir Khan is an account about the life and accomplishments of a remarkable individual.He came from humble beginnings, overcame adversity and through perseverance and a proactive spirit, became successful. Dr. A. M Khan exemplifies what a headmaster should be, through his unrelenting passion for education. His popularity among his students and excellence in their academic performances is a testimony to this. His conviction in his faith, along with sheer determination and courage, propelled him to make significant contributions as a leader in society, that will always be remembered.
L.K.



National hero
ByC.H on March 3, 2015
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Format: Paperback
The memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan presented by his daughter, author, Brenda Mohammed, records the life story of Dr. Khan as told by himself in the memoirs he so graciously bequeath to all of us who knew and loved him.
This reviewer has had a teacher-pupil relationship with Dr. Khan and has benefitted tremendously from the exposure to high standards in the educational and spiritual atmosphere he provided.
The memoirs tell the story of a man burnt by the vicissitudes of life, challenging and bitter times, yet has emerged renewed, reinvigorated, refined and restored- a life exemplary in every way.
The autobiography is a true reflection of the author's love for and belief in truth, his high standards of etiquette and his pursuit of model writing skills in the English Language.
The simple, comprehensive, yet sophisticated presentation leaves the reader fascinated and curious to know more of a life that offers much to be emulated.
The physical and emotional traumas shared in the book bring deep feelings of sympathy and empathy. Overcoming early childhood bad experiences through divine intervention strengthens the reader's faith in God. The travails of a teacher aspiring to ascend the ladder of progress met with misplaced opposition inspires dignified patience.
The unreserved and unconditional dedication to family life inspires noble parenting. The zest "to follow knowledge like a singing star beyond the reach of human thought" inspires a passionate mind.
To live the life that God expects us to live, as the author's work demonstrates, inspires discipline and devotion. Nothing less is expected, as the book in its lifelike and meaningful way depicts the story of "a great man, a true exemplar, a national hero."


Books can be obtained from Amazon Universal Link

Is there a Time to be born and a time to die

In this book, Your Time is Now - A time to be born and a time to Die, the author connects powerful words of wisdom with events in her life and the lives of others.
It is written, based on powerful words spoken by King Solomon in the Book of Ecclesiastes about times and seasons. "There is a time to be born and a time to die, and a time for every purpose under the Heaven."
The book is intended to help people understand their own lives and to realize that we are all here on earth for a purpose.
Poems and a section on A Brother's Wisdom are included.

Top Reviews

Brenda successfully awakens our spirit and motivates us to focus on what’s important around us in this powerful read.
ByJen L.on August 29, 2016
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Brenda inspires us through this life opening read. Focusing on the 8 verses in Ecclesiastes Chapter 3, she emphasizes how there is a time, a season, for everything; “A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing, etc…”

She breaks down each of these verses and explains them via her own life experiences. A book of reflection, and what is truly important. Simplifying what we have always complicated.

How many of us are prepared for the eventuality of leaving this planet, leaving our body, leaving our loved ones? “My father was one of those who knew that he was going to die and was well prepared.” If you thought along these lines Every day, how would this change your behavior? Living each day like it was your last… Brenda successfully awakens our spirit and motivates us to focus on what’s important around us in this powerful read.




5.0 out of 5 stars
A true story told with pure intentions and true feelings
ByRoma Sinananon May 17, 2014
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
A true story told with pure intentions and deep feelings. It's simplicity and well-scripted chapters grow into each other methodically and freely. The reader is impelled to move on with ease and comfort. There is a pervasive humility in each incident which truly reflects the author's character and personality. Her pride in her heritage and family ties touches deep into the soul and absorbs the attention of the reader. Personal circumstances told, reflect her openness to inform and tutor at the same time, what one can derive from challenges unexpected if rooted in the trust one places in God.
The author's implicit belief in divine intervention summarizes her message. I have enjoyed, I have been touched and have had my personal convictions reiterated in this most interesting and soul searching book. I recommend it to all especially to you who in times when the clouds grow dark- the silver linings emerge to remind us of a light emerging on the other side. This is the author's story.

Get the book at Amazon Universal Link

Did you think that Retirement is no fun?

Book Description

Is your life over when you retire?
Brenda dispels that fear.
In her book Retirement is Fun - A New Chapter, which is a sequel to her autobiography My Life as a Banker - A Life Worth Living,
the author describes her many experiences at the end of her banking career.
She proves that retirement is a time to enjoy life.
Despite facing many challenges such as cancer, deaths of loved ones, and an accident, which made her realize that life is very short, she triumphantly moves on to accomplish more.
After her banking career, she landed a new job in an Insurance company and had numerous travel opportunities.
She increased her skills in areas she never thought possible.
Brenda Mohammed has surely proven that when she retired from her first job she definitely did not retire from life.
For her, Retirement is indeed fun and she has written about her fun experiences in this personal memoir on Retirement.
Retirement is Fun: A new Chapter was a nominee in the Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016 in the category Bio/Memoirs.

TOP REVIEWS

Review by Readers Favorite:

Retirement is Fun: A New Chapter by Brenda Mohammed is an interesting memoir where the author shares with readers her moments after retirement and how it is a time when everyone should sit back and enjoy life. After reading this book, no one will dread retirement. They will all look forward to it and use that time to enjoy the beauty of life, spend more time with the family, and experience their unconditional love. Retiring from the job does not mean one retires from life because one gets time to appreciate the beauty of unlimited time and use it effectively by doing things they missed out on doing while they were working.
The book is uplifting as it makes everyone who is going to retire look forward to it. The author's experiences and adventures after retirement give readers ideas on how to handle their lives in a good and happy way after retiring from their jobs. Brenda Mohammed shows by example how one's attitude can make a difference to everything and life can be enjoyed at any age, irrespective of whether you are young or not.
The memoir is simple and chronicles the author's life and events, taking readers into her space. The memoir is a good read; readers can connect well with what the author says and the events and experiences in her life, and the way she handles life is tangible. The words of wisdom from Dr Murdoch quoted at the end of the book are very inspirational and will help readers look at life in a positive way. An interesting book for all those who are going to retire from their jobs and want to know how to handle life after that.

Comment which a British Writer Margaret Lossl shared on LinkedIn

"We all face challenges. I have found that 'what doesn't kill you will make you stronger' to be true. I have recently met an inspirational writer Brenda Mohammed and in her book 'Retirement is Fun: A New Chapter' (Amazon) she reveals her triumph over hazardous challenges. Her positive outlook and faith carry her through the difficult phase between her high-profile job in a bank and retirement, but it is in these halcyon days of retirement, that life really throws her a curved ball. No matter what you are going through, make it count and enable growth. You are not alone.

The book takes the reader on a journey of fun and adventure through many travels.
By L.K
Format: Kindle Edition
"Retirement is Fun", is a seamless account of family life, hard work, and dedication. The author talks about her impressive career from banker to an insurance agent, to the lifetime member of the company that she worked for. Through it all, she beat the odds of life-threatening health problems. The book takes the reader on a journey of fun and adventure through many travels, work, and family life, that make retirement seem worthwhile.
Roza K.

GET THE BOOK AT AMAZON UNIVERSAL LINK

FREE GIVEAWAY
See this #AmazonGiveaway for a chance to win: Zeeka Chronicles (Revenge of Zeeka) (Kindle Edition).
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Download a Best Seller for Free

Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #26,016 Free in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Free in Kindle Store)
#20 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Literature & Fiction > Genre Fiction > Medical




BOOK DESCRIPTION

Revenge of Zeeka: Zeeka and the Zombies, Book 1, is an engaging introduction to the story of a mysterious vengeful man and zombies that were created with the misuse of modern science.
The zombies wreak havoc on a small exotic island named Gosh in the year 2036.
This first book ends with a cliffhanger.
Why does this man want revenge?
Who will save the islanders from him?
One man knows his secrets, but can he intervene to stop the carnage?
Who is this man?

TOP REVIEWS

"Good zombie tale
This is a good zombie story and a great beginning to the series.
Brenda Mohammed is clearly a talented writer.
The action is fast and plentiful, and the author spends a good amount of time developing her characters, which is impressive for a story that is on the short side.
I recommend checking out this story and then following up with the other books in the series!"
Amazon Reviewer: C. A. Hart
If you love zombie thrillers, futuristic zombies at that, with a subtle mix of love and romance, do not miss this PERMAFREE action-packed novella.


The book is available for FREE DOWNLOAD at the following stores:

Download it at AMAZON

Books2Read Universal Link

Special Offer

See this #AmazonGiveaway for a chance to win: Zeeka Chronicles (Revenge of Zeeka) (Kindle Edition).
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.
Ends the earlier of May 6, 2017, 11:59 PM PDT, or when all prizes are claimed.
See Official Rules