CONTINUED: Joy Potential by Robert Sharpe

I definitely gained a few golden takeaway nuggets from reading this book. Hitting home with me were the following:

1-Being conscious of not allowing interactions with negative people to dictate my mood or frame of mind. I don’t need to let a snide comment send me into free fall from elation to deflation. I have to take control of my own mood and not give negative people the power to ruin my day.

2-My perception of why someone said something that I consider negative may be very different from what they were actually thinking or insinuating. Have I walked in their shoes? Probably not.

3-Success (even in terms of book sales) is not necessarily measured in numbers, but by the people who are positively touched by our writing and other endeavors.

There are many other thoughts that come to mind after reading Joy Potential, but the above were just a few precious gems that penetrated and steadfastly stuck to my brain.

Joy Potential also explains the progression of R. P.’s venture into hosting Internet radio shows--something the author does in real life. The actual R. P. really does an excellent job with interviewing and discussing a variety of books and genres. When you listen to one of his programs, his sincerity and enthusiasm absolutely charm the listening audience.

His own book will inspire and surprise the reader, but you won’t get any spoilers from me. You will want to read Joy Potential: Where You’d Least Expect It for your own benefit. You may just see the world a little bit differently.

Book Description

In a state of chaos, anything is possible. We have an opportunity to shake up our lives, to create more happiness. Our time here is limited. Where do you put your attention? What do you create and experience - fear or joy? At a crossroads in life not knowing which direction to go, I find myself taking a temporary graveyard job to help with expenses.

During the course of this one week assignment, I discover negative patterns and cycles ingrained since birth. It becomes clear how these mistaken beliefs create fear and roadblocks in my life. It's time for a change! A new perspective is created as John the Supervisor and Leonora, Quality Control, guide me through the unknown, overcoming fear, to a place where I see new paths and opportunities. "Moving from a place of questioning one's self worth, to a place where I do something that significantly improves a stranger's life is a massive shift!" I am led down a path where my hobby, Internet-based radio, becomes a major source of Joy Potential.

In the Author’s Own Words

"This story was written to help the reader become more aware of the opportunities that life presents every day for creating more joy and happiness.  Each morning, while walking in nature, I was shown what to write for the day creating excitement and anticipation in me as the story unfolded.  The perspectives provided are meant to stimulate thought and to recognize that our life experience is created by the decisions we make each day.  If you want a better life, start now by making better, healthier and more positives choices."

About the Author

R. P. Sharpe is the Founder of BITEradio.me --Bringing Inspiration To Earth radio. Established in 2010, BITEradio.me was created to provide a source of positive programming designed to enlighten and entertain. A former corporate trainer, R. P. Sharpe has more than 25 years experience in the study of metaphysics and more than 10 years radio experience both broadcast and Internet-based.

See  http://joybook.me/ for links to purchase Joy Potential.

Also visit with R. P. Sharpe at the following sites:

Radio: http://biteradio.me/

Blog: http://biteradiome.wordpress.com/ 

Don’t forget to catch R. P. on his additional radio show, dedicated to Beach Author Network members, at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/beach-author-network.

CONTINUED: Behind Criminal Minds

The path he traveled to being a published author was not without potholes. After watching the Donnie Brasco Story about Joe Pistone, the FBI agent who infiltrated the Mafia as "Donnie the Jeweler," Paul came to the conclusion that he had encountered many similar experiences and that he should also write a book. His attempts to find a publisher, however, ended in multiple roadblocks.

For three years, he kept a notebook in his pocket and jotted down thoughts and ideas about the topics he wanted to cover in his book. He finally put it all together. With a completed manuscript, he endeavored to attract a publisher, but soon discovered that the  traditional publishers only seemed to be interested in contracting with celebrities.  He tried to reason with them by suggesting, "Well, if you publish my book, then I WILL be a celebrity!" He said they didn't buy this seemingly logical reasoning.

He researched and chose Xlibris to self-publish his book. At this point, his working title was Not Your Ordinary Day at the Office. His editor recommended changing the title to How to Commit the Perfect Crime. After giving this some consideration, he decided that it wasn't his goal to teach criminals how to get away with crimes and made certain that his manuscript was slanted more toward his personal experiences in New York City law enforcement. Another recommended title was Death Under a Magnifying Glass, which he found rather distasteful, but was agreeable to the change of title to Behind Criminal Minds.

He didn't hesitate to mention specific names in his book. I wondered if that worried him once the book was published and out there for everyone to read. He said, "I only worried about one guy, and I didn't use his real name in the book. I called him The Candy Man. He said he would get me for my part in his arrest, but he got 55 years. I figured when he gets out, what would be our method of confrontation? Dueling canes? I'd be 96 and he'd be 88!"

Paul is quite candid in his book, explaining that police work can make you cold and heartless. When asked how long it took him after retirement to feel as though he was once again emotionally balanced, he replied, "About five to seven years. It wore on me. I didn't know how close I was to a nervous breakdown. Today they have a psychology unit to help them. Twelve years in a homicide unit where you go every day into a negative situation just wears you down. There was never a happy situation--only in the respect of catching who did it, but it was always such a tragedy--lives ruined. And it wasn't easy to get along with the brass--the boss--there were personality conflicts that made it really tough."

What attributes made DiStefano good at his job? He explained, "I was an excellent interrogator and interviewer. I found it pretty easy to flip people. I was a good actor and a great liar.”

There are no second chances when your life is constantly on the line,  and I asked Paul how he dealt with that every day. He replied, "You had to put it out of your mind or you'd go crazy. As a detective, you're wearing a suit and it's not as risky as being on patrol. You're coming in after the crime. But there is an accumulation of everything related to what we saw and experienced, and it took its toll. I began to have no feelings--nothing fazed me any more. And toward the end, I literally began to get shaky when I knew it was time to report for work. I honestly didn't know why. Then I began to realize I couldn't do this any longer. I had to get off this job."

Behind Criminal Minds reads like DiStefano is telling his stories to an old friend. With the inclusion of newspaper clippings to corroborate his tales, this book sends the reader back in time in New York City Police history and provides an insider’s point of view that absolutely held my interest. If you enjoy watching Blue Bloods or other law enforcement shows on television, you will like Behind Criminal Minds. It is the real deal.

Book Description

Behind Criminal Minds follows the amazing career of a homicide detective. This book takes you to the scene of some of the New York City’s most brutal and violent homicides, citywide riots, undercover sting operations, police interrogations of suspects, mafia trials, and inside scandalous police corruption rings spanning Paul DiStefano’s well-decorated twenty-two-year career with the NYPD. This is a no-holds barred thrilling account of how cops go after killers. DiStefano explains in his own words how he was able to get criminals to confess to their crimes, track down hidden dead bodies, outsmart slick child rapists, negotiate with insane hostage-takers, plant wire taps in mafia hangouts without their knowledge, and rescue innocent victims from the clutches of armed gunmen.

In the Author’s Own Words

Asked if he had any advice to other writers on the topic of publishing, Paul offered,

"Don't expect that you can easily get a publisher. Self-publish, and don't expect it to be a big money maker!"

About the Author

Paul DiStefano worked with the Organized Crime Unit of the Brooklyn District attorney's office, the Organized Crime Control Undercover Unit of the Special Operations Section of the NYPD, the Brooklyn North Rape Unit, the Homicide, Anti-Terrorism, and Hostage Negotiation Divisions of the Staten Island detectives. He also served as a uniformed patrolman and plainclothes detail in the 1st, 7th, and 16th Precincts in Manhattan. He also served in the New York State Attorney General's Medicaid Fraud Division doing undercover investigative work. Mr. DiStefano has lectured and trained in all aspects of security matters and is specialized in criminal interrogation techniques. During his illustrious career in the police force, he received numerous NYPD awards and citations. He obtained his BS degree in Criminal Justice from the New York Institute of Technology.

Behind Criminal Minds is available on-line through Amazon and Barnes & Noble, or you can purchase it directly from the author.  Contact him at 843-215-0785 or by email at Coachpaul74@aol.com.

Learn more about Beach Author Network writers and their books at:

http://www.beachauthornetwork.blogspot.com

CONTINUED: Divine Appointments by Kathy Penney

The takeaway for me is that we are born with an opportunity to enjoy an ongoing relationship through Jesus Christ with the Almighty God, Creator of the entire universe. Some folks rejoice in this, some postpone it and others completely reject Him or feel that faith has no relevance or significance in their lives. As believers, we know without doubt that God orchestrates circumstances to connect us with people in various stages of a spiritual journey--some to guide us and some we should be helping. Divine Appointments offers multiple examples of situations where the author could have ignored that quiet voice that prompts us, and someone’s life and/or situation would have taken a completely different, drastically negative turn.

Divine Appointments. Are you prepared to show up and deliver? Will you step up to the plate and give someone the spiritual guidance they so desperately need…even if they aren’t very likeable and you feel as though you have nothing in common with them? Kathy Penney does.

Book Description

Do you think you need to have the gift of evangelism to share the Gospel? Many Christians love to do different ministries. You may be gifted in teaching Sunday school, sending cards of encouragement, praying for people’s needs or helping in your Church. The body of Christ needs all of the above but people need to know Jesus loves them. I would like to show you how God prepares the hearts and minds of his children to hear the Good News! This book will give you examples of how He will direct your paths. Want to hear about God’s miracles? YOU can be ready to be one of His missionaries and experience the joy He will give you as you enter into His Divine Appointments!

In the Author’s Own Words

“This book was written to give hope and healing through Jesus Christ. My journey was difficult. I was released from a locked up ward at age 39 with no hope.  I, myself, was a Divine Appointment when I was told that someone loved me and had a wonderful plan for my life.  The Divine Appointment was with Jesus.  Jesus then met my daughter Kerri, 23, and delivered her in an instant of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes and suicidal feelings.  My son Joey, 28, was the next one Jesus met with, and Joey is now 8 years heroin free!”

About the Author

Kathy Penney is a women’s Bible study leader, Christian speaker, advocate for victims of violence, women’s mentor, writer of Christian poetry and is an oak of righteousness for the display of His splendor. Kathy has appeared on twenty-two national television shows on victimization. She started the Rap Not Rape college program for women.

Connect with Kathy Penney through her Website at:

http://www.kathypenneyministries.com

Email at:

Calvary111@aol.com

Divine Appointments is available through connecting with Kathy on her Website or online at Xulon Press, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com.

Learn more about Beach Author Network writers and their books at:

http://www.beachauthornetwork.blogspot.com

CONTINUED: Jekyll Island by Faye Bradley

On the rare occasions that I read a novel which is written in the present tense, it tends to make me feel as though I am examining an actual screenplay. Sometimes this makes me uncomfortable, but as the book progressed, I was able to adjust to this style because I so thoroughly enjoyed the story. As I read various descriptions of the island, I could easily visualize the tranquil scenery and surroundings, and I was transfixed until I could reach the ending to see how the conflicts were resolved. This book is a wonderful example of isolating a particular era (1930’s) and filling in the blanks of history to allow the period to burst with life.

Most importantly, Jekyll Island reminds us that although riches bring perks that others may never even begin to imagine, it is a fact that being blessed with large sums of money does not guarantee happiness and fulfillment. Those attributes must come from within, a reality that is so beautifully demonstrated by this delightful, entertaining book.

Book Description

Discover this uplifting story of life and love set against the backdrop of the birth of Big Bands and Swing Dancing in 1930's New York City - and on a beautiful barrier island off the coast of Georgia from which the book gets it name. Come discover how young Frank and Gene escape the harsh realities of the Great Depression into the music and dancing of the day, finding fun and adventure as they refuse to let life pass them by!

In the Author’s Own Words

“I always wanted to try my hand at writing. Wanting to be a journalist from the time I was in high school, I always had an ‘itch’ to write. Now, after living quite an interesting life, I finally decided to ‘pick up a pen.’ 

My son wrote the screenplay, Jekyll Island, a story told to him by a family friend, an older gentleman who lived through the depression and worked on Jekyll Island, GA during the Big Band era of swing dancing.  I borrowed this screenplay and wrote the novel around it.  It is full of history that triggers memories from the past and teaches new facts as the book quickly moves along.”

About the Author

Faye Bradley lives in South Carolina with her husband Wilson, and their Yorkie, ‘Lil Sugar.’ Born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware as a Quaker (Religious Society of Friends), she is the mother of four Eagle Scout sons and sixteen grandchildren. Familiar with raising boys, she was very active with the Boy Scouts of America, receiving the distinguished Silver Beaver Award in 1978. She taught swimming and life saving for over thirty years for the American Red Cross and enjoyed swimming, scuba diving and snow skiing. Faye loves life – and also loves to read.

This is her first attempt at writing a novel, and we think you will be pleased. Trying to capture the exciting era of the birth of Big Bands and Swing Dancing (right after the Stock Market Crash and repeal of Prohibition), this story reads like a fun history lesson.  It is based upon the real-life story of one of Faye's mother's best friends, and allows the fictional elements to hold it together in a way that lets the reader live, laugh and love as they enjoy a step back in time.

As an author who is a Christian, she dedicated this to you, if you are nine or ninety-nine. This book will hopefully bring the era to life.

Most of Faye's time now is invested in enjoying her service in the United Methodist Women's organization, spending time with family, friends, or her favorite little constant companion, ‘Lil Sugar,’ who has an ever-optimistic personality.

To purchase Jekyll Island online, visit Barnes & Noble at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/jekyll-island-a-novel-faye-bradley or

Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Jekyll-Island-Novel-Faye-Bradley-ebook/dp/B007X5L2H0.

Connect with Faye Bradley on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JekyllIslandNovel

And by email at:

FayeBradley32@gmail.com

CONTINUED: In Your Eyes by L. Thomas Cook

It was intriguing to witness the complexity of Jay & Sonny’s relationship. From Sonny’s struggle to identify his sexuality to Jay’s insistence on their love remaining deeply undercover (sorry!), the reader can easily sympathize with their plight. No way would the guys on the force tolerate these two tough cops smooching and cuddling, loving and touching each other.

The book heightens my curiosity about whether being gay is 1) a choice, 2) learned behavior or 3) a genetic predisposition. It begs the question: If being gay is strictly a choice, why would anyone deliberately and knowingly opt for a lifestyle that potentially alienates families, rips open the seams of churches and denominational theology and even in this decade of alleged tolerance, guarantees disapproval and animosity from many?

In Your Eyes demonstrates the complications of Jay and Sonny’s precarious social and medical standing when Sonny is seriously injured in an accident. As merely “friends,” Jay has no legal rights to make medical decisions for Sonny. This story keeps the reader anxious to know the outcome, and whether or not you believe in gay rights, you want the best for these two sensitive, likeable guys.

One cannot deny that this story pulls the reader into a better understanding of what the gay community faces. And I believe that God loves everyone, but doesn’t necessarily love our behavior whether we are gay or straight. It isn’t my place to be judgmental because there is ultimately one Holy Judge in the end, and that isn’t me.



Book Description

Undercover detective Sonny Santini is handsome, sexy, and charming. Detective Jay Jamison is tall, blond, and sensible. Together they make a great team working in one of the most dangerous cities in Florida during the early 1980s. On duty and up against some ruthless criminals, they are loyal partners dedicated to each other. Off duty, that dedication also includes protecting a private secret about their true relationship. Jay, who for years was conflicted about his feelings for Sonny, one day finally finds the courage to tell the attractive man the truth. After that, they create a life that works for them and with that life comes a promise that no matter what, they will keep the love they share private and then...a near fatal accident destroys it all.

Sonny is the love of Jay's life but once Sonny comes out of the coma, he no longer has any memory of his life or connections to those around him. Jay stands by Sonny's side even through the agony of learning his partner has irreversible brain damage. Jay is left alone with no one to confide in and a choice to maintain the secret about him and Sonny guarding it even from Sonny.

How long can Jay keep up the charade? Sonny is vulnerable, reckless, and lost. He's confused over right and wrong and when a seductive woman sets her sights on Sonny and preys on his innocence, Jay is desperate to do what's best for his partner. But what is best? To keep the secret and risk losing Sonny or tell him the truth and risk losing even more?

Words from the Author

“I was born and raised in upstate New York. Growing up and being educated in New York was nice, but enough with the winters already. So I decided in 2011 to move down south along the Grand Strand of South Carolina. The ocean air and live oaks were inspiring and the old itch to write kicked in. Actually, the itch never left. I have been writing since forever but now that the family is grown, I have the time to really practice the craft. A big fan of suspense, cop shows, romance, and human rights, I decided to combine those things and created the Santini & Jamison series. I also enjoy the paranormal and have written some stories on that as well. Along with my writing, I am a nature photographer, animal lover, beach walker, and history nut. I love to write rich character driven stories with just the right amount of anguish, conflict, and edginess to keep it interesting.”


The Writing of In Your Eyes per L. Thomas-Cook
“I came up with the idea of two men, in love with one another, who would keep the secret of their love even as the odds mounted. People ask me why I chose that story line. Well, I have always been an advocate of people's rights and there is no right more precious than the right to love who you want the way you want. I am also big into anguish. In fact, some have called me the 'Queen of Anguish.' Well, can you think of better anguish than loving someone that many people in the world say is wrong? Plus, let's face it, two very hot men is a turn on and I don't want to compete with another woman. I don't know the psychological reasons why women of a (cough) certain age find gay men intriguing, I just know that many of the audience for shows like Queer As Folk and story lines in some of the soap operas have drawn a significant female population. Okay, I'm going to say it...there is a certain sexuality to it that is erotic. Add that in with a great love story and I think you've got a nice mix.
I don't just write gay love stories. I write suspense romance, psychological thrillers, and science fiction (if you put the paranormal in that category.) What can I say? I have a thing for murder, conflict, and ghosts. I also like dark, edgy stories that read like a roller coaster ride with unexpected turns and twists.”
More About L. Thomas-Cook
Regarding living here along the South Carolina Grand Strand she said, “Close to the ocean and the marsh, nature surrounds me. I truly believe it's as close to heaven as I can get on earth.
I live here with my oh so terrific husband, a man who must be a saint not to have killed me yet, and our best little friend, a dog named Sonny.”
Thomas-Cook is on the Board of Directors with the South Carolina Writers Workshop. She is also on the board of the Murrells Inlet Community Theatre, where she has been Stage Manager, Producer and Technical Director.

Visit the L. Thomas-Cook website at http://www.lindathomascook.com  and see In Your Eyes at http://www.amazon.com/In-Your-Eyes-Santini-Jamison/dp/0615835813.

CONTINUED: Seven Tears by Sheila Joyner

Seven Tears paints a vivid portrait of Birch’s difficult situation and the effects of addictions in the home. It is a quick, but captivating read that leaves one wondering how many kids are out there silently suffering. I was incredibly  thankful for the positive ending!

Joyner approaches a difficult topic through the eyes of an innocent child, a rebellious adolescent and, finally, a young adult. I hope that this author has future books in the works.

Book Description

I was six years old when I lost my innocence. Keeping quiet about it was more out of fear of his wrath. When it was finally revealed, I was a drama queen, they said. At age thirteen, they didn’t believe me after the gang rape, but found it justified to send me away to have the baby. I was a drama queen, they said. Living in a family of dirty little secrets, I began acting out in a big way.

For seven years I fought neglect, abuse, and even death. And then one day it happened. For Birch Thomas, life is not easy. She had fought neglect, abuse, and even death for seven years, living with the dark secrets her family hid. Birch can’t seem to catch a break from the negatives of life, and she doesn’t know where to turn. She isn’t sure she’ll ever escape her secrets. Inspired by actual events, Seven Tears will captivate and inspire young adults and parents. Take an inside look at the skewed foster system and discover the true meaning of home.

In the Author’s Own Words

“A friend once said, it only takes one person to change the direction of your life. Well, it happened to me and I started writing.

Raised in rural West Virginia and the daughter of a coal miner, my first job was with the hometown newspaper.

I now live in the seaside village of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. We have a saying in our town... ‘quaint drinking village with a fishing problem.’  I love to fish.

My favorite quote is ‘Gardeners know the best dirt.’ I'm the type of person that has to be in the know, the inner circles, the front lines. I love gardening also.

Favorite genre is anything with a true story.

I'd be thrilled to get your friend request. Gracias!”

And More

Joyner was compelled to write Seven Tears when she experienced the life-changing event of losing several grandchildren to the foster care system. A debut author, she is now a therapeutic foster parent and advocate for children in foster care and kinship care. She lives in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, with her husband, Sonny.
Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is now available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting http://www.barnesandnoble.com or http://www.amazon.com
Connect with Sheila Joyner on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/SheilaJoynerBooks

CONTINUED: Circles In Time by Trilby Plants

Book Description

When a magic potion goes wrong, the consequences can reach through centuries….
In 10^th Century Ireland half-Faerie Siobhan is shunned by both fey and humans. She unwittingly ingests an unscrupulous druid’s potion. Siobhan’s quest to be part of human society leads her down a perilous road that culminates in her summoning forbidden magic that causes suffering to her descendants into the present day.
Drawing from Gaelic folklore and mythology, the story follows a half-Faerie woman who desires to belong in the human world, a clan chieftain who will do anything for an heir, an evil druid who concocts magic potions, time travel, a modern day man who experiences missing time, and a Faerie’s spell that has far reaching consequences.

Link to paperback version:  https://www.createspace.com/3968292

Link to Kindle version: http://www.amazon.com/Circles-Time-Trilby-Plants-ebook/dp/B009LLZTQ4

In the Author’s Own Words

“This book came about decades ago when I wondered what it would be like if a real fairy traveled from long ago to the present. The 9th and 10th centuries in Ireland are not well documented as little remains, so I filled in the gaps with my imagination. I have always been fascinated by the stories of the daoine sidhe or Tuatha De Danann. According to Celtic and Gaelic myths, these were beings who came from the sky in shining ships. They possessed powers humans did not and lived long lives.

I did a tremendous amount of research to get the historical aspects somewhat correct. The setting in Washington state came about because my parents lived there for quite a while and there are vast tracts of forested mountain terrain devoid of people. Ideal for a portal from the past.”

About the Author

Trilby Plants was hooked on words when, at the age of four, her mother read her Gulliver’s Travels. Plants has published poetry, creative nonfiction, short stories and a self-published fantasy novel, GATEKEEPER. She is currently editor of The Petigru Review, the literary anthology of the South Carolina Writers’ Workshop. She lives with her husband in Murrells Inlet, SC.

Author of Gatekeeper and children’s book Hubert Little’s Great Adventure, Plants also creates amazing book trailers. Watch for the upcoming spring release of  Meena Mouse's Perfect Raspberry, a children's picture book illustrated by Deborah Gagnon. Visit Trilby’s website at http://www.trilbyplants.com.