Tag: New Release

Romance Writer, Catherine Michaels and Her New Book

June 6, 2024 / rosieadmin / 9 Comments

Hey everyone! Happy June 2024! I hope you all have exciting plans for your summer.

In a month, Romance writer, Catherine Michaels is releasing her new book, Sand, Sea, & Second Chances.

You may have heard of (Cat) Catherine Michaels in my past blogs and on my social media pages. She’s a former Kidlit writer and we were fortunate to write a book together called, “Just Between Sam and Me.”

More About Catherine Michaels and Her New Book

Award-winning author Catherine Michaels whisks you away to charming small towns and sun-kissed shores in her swoon-worthy sweet romances. Prepare to laugh, shed a happy tear, and fall for unforgettable characters.

A former educator with a passion for storytelling, Catherine brings her unique perspective to life after years of nurturing young minds, publishing five children’s books as Cat Michaels, and a second career leading in the corporate world.

Fueled by a desire for happily-ever-afters, she started her Gull Island romance during the pandemic lockdown. Drawing inspiration from her coastal haven, she weaves relatable characters and picturesque settings into heartwarming escapes. Catherine and her family live outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, where she writes and visits her happy place on the coast every chance she gets.

Let’s Go to the Beach

Kick off your shoes and take a walk on the beach with Catherine and I as we explore her new release. (Don’t forget your sunscreen lotion.)

North Caroline Beach - Photo Credit, Catherine Michaels

From Catherine:

Thanks for having me on your blog, Rosie! Talking about this new book takes me back to our kid lit days when we co-wrote Just Between Sam and Me. Now I’m diving into the world of adult romance with my latest book, Sand, Sea, & Second Chances, releasing on July 17. This book is for anyone who’s ever felt like life threw them a curveball (or maybe a rogue wave!). It’s about second chances, following your heart, and rediscovering the strength and joy that lies within. All wrapped up in a heartwarming summer escape mixed with tears and laughter.

1. Tell us more about the heart of Sand, Sea, & Second Chances and finding love again. What unexpected turn of events brings your main characters together?

Life can hit you sideways sometimes, and that’s exactly what happens to Kate Fiore, a dynamic woman in her mid-30s. Fresh off a tough divorce and career setback, she swaps Northern cityscapes for Down South seascapes with a summer marketing gig at an aquarium on charming Gull Island.

But paradise isn’t all sunshine and seashells. Kate clashes with a stubborn (but talented!) local landscape architect, Luke McAllister, over a proposed beach development project. Their fiery arguments soon spark an undeniable connection.

2. Was it challenging to write a love story for characters who might not be looking for love again? How did you portray their journey of rediscovering romance?

Finding love later in life often comes with emotional baggage, and that’s true for Kate and Luke. Both are focused on their careers and not actively seeking romance. But as they’re forced to work together on the aquarium’s annual fundraiser and sea turtle patrols, their shared passion for Gull Island starts to break down their barriers.

Their story unfolds as a slow burn, gradually revealing past hurts and challenging preconceived notions. It’s a summer romance with emotional depth along with themes of over tourism, coastal protection, and found family…all in a charming small-town setting with quirky side characters.

3. What kind of romance is it? Steamy or sweet?

Sand, Sea, & Second Chances is a sweet, closed-door romance that emphasizes emotional connection and simmering chemistry. While some moments will leave you breathless, the focus is on Kate and Luke’s heartfelt journey and emotional arc. You might even shed a happy tear rooting for them.

4. Did the idea for Sand, Sea, & Second Chances come to you all at once, or did it evolve over time? Share your journey from initial inspiration to finished manuscript.

It took me three years to bring this book to you, inspired by my love of ocean and a need for an escape during the pandemic lockdown…. maybe a little nudge from Kate and Luke’s themselves, too!

The ocean has always been my happy place, from growing up along coastal Connecticut and visiting the near-to-me North Carolina beaches for more than two decades since moving South. More inspiration for Sand, Sea, & Second Chances struck on a visit to a favorite beach that had changed dramatically due to development. Crammed with houses, we couldn’t even access the once-pristine space.

It got me thinking about the delicate balance between progress and preservation. That’s when I expanded Luke and Kate’s story beyond two passionate souls coming together from different worlds. They not only navigate their personal journeys but also clash over a condo development on Gull Island.

I also wanted to add depth to Kate’s character, giving her a secret that keeps her guarded, and explore if she can find the courage to risk opening her heart again to love.

5. Are any parts of your book inspired by your real life?

Kate and I share roots in coastal Connecticut towns and come from boisterous, loving Italian families. My real-life Aunt Theresa, an active 93-year-old, inspires some of the spunk in the story. While Gull Island is fictional, it’s a blend of my favorite North Carolina coastal communities… because who can pick just one beautiful beachy setting?

6. Where can readers learn more and find your book?

Sand, Sea, & Second Chances debuts on July 17, 2024, but you can pre-order your digital copy on Amazon now for just ► $0.99! This hot deal ends soon, so don’t miss out!

Print versions will be available on July 17 from your favorite bookseller.

“Excerpt from Sand, Sea, & Second Chances, by Catherine Michaels

“Kate Fiore stepped up to the front porch of her rented bungalow. The relentless sun had bleached the once-bright red door to a pale rosy hue, while the heat danced on the white shell driveway. A gentle breeze brushed against her cheek, carrying the briny perfume of the ocean and the scent of jasmine from a nearby garden. Taped to the door, a note scrawled in black Sharpie swayed in the wind, its edges curled as if eager to reveal its secrets.

Kate shielded her eyes from the blinding sun with her hand, casting a shadow across the note she was trying to read. She squinted, her lips moving slightly as she deciphered the scribbled words:

Welcome to Gull Island!
Door’s open. Make yourself at home. Mae Gray

Five hundred miles of asphalt, then forty minutes of winding coast. Kate craved only two things: a frigid shower to chase away the highway dust and a bed that would swallow her whole. The unlocked 1930s bungalow, nestled behind Gray Cottage, promised both, a silent welcome that surpassed any Southern charm she’d imagined.

She had parked her Prius next to her rental’s tidy yard, secluded from beachgoers across the road. A red Bougainvillea vine flanked the small front porch, its fiery blooms twirling around a white lattice panel on one side and a terracotta pot stuffed with blood-red geraniums anchoring opposite. Cool air humming from the living room AC box greeted Kate when she sank into a plump chintz sofa. She fired off a safe-arrival text to her mother, and a classic Mom reply pinged instantly.

Kate’s bungalow generated by Bing Image Creator

Flad u made it. Get food night sleep. FaceTime us Sunday.

Kate cracked a weary smile. FaceTiming with her family on Sunday was the perfect defense against encroaching homesickness. Her thumbs danced across the screen, sending a cascade of heart emojis in response.

The plush cushions welcomed Kate as she took in the beachy trinkets sprinkled around the room—sand dollar wreath, glass vase stuffed with seashells, and nautical maps. A driftwood plaque challenged her, “Life’s better in flip-flops.” With a sigh, she slipped off her red Chucks as a sense of disconnect washed over her. Clearly not in synch here, she thought.

She was tempted to explore more, but her practical side took over. Time to face the scorching furnace to fetch her things from her car.”

If readers can’t wait to hear more about your new book, tell us about your free prequel novelette.

They can visit my website @ https:// www.catherine michaelsauthor.com. While you’re there, sign up to become an Insider. You’ll receive monthly exclusive content, updates, and a free prequel novelette, Before Sand & Sea, to explore Kate and Luke’s lives in the weeks before their paths collide on Gull Island.

Free prequel novelette, Before Sand & Sea,

Thanks for inviting me to your blog, Rosie! Wishing you and your readers cool breezes and happy tales!

Thank you Cat for taking time out of your busy day to visit with us.

Goodreads Updates – May 2024 News and Reviews

I usually have many more books to list each month, but the last few months have been too difficult for me to talk about.

We had to say good-bye to our sweet 18 year old kittens. It was their time to go but I sure miss them. They were the best reading buddies I could ever ask for. Their everyday presence has been such a void to our family. I will keep their memories alive in my future books, for sure.

Meanwhile, I was able to get these two awesome books read in the month of May.

“The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers,” Samuel Burr

This book, “The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers,” by Samuel Burr is one which will send you back in time and present day as the story unfolds.
My heart felt for character, Clayton Stumper, as he tries to solve the mystery of his family history with a slew of interesting friends and family in his life.
Readers will find themselves turning the pages until the end to solve the puzzling details with rich descriptions and great storytelling.
I’m looking forward to more of Samuel Burr’s entertaining books.

“The Mystery Guest,” by Nita Prose (Molly the Maid #2)

“The Mystery Guest,” by Nita Prose (Molly the Maid #2) did not disappoint and was a joy to read.
If you have read, “Molly the Maid,” you will enjoy book number two even more. It is not required though, as Nita Prose sets the stage for readers to understand the main characters.
I hope to find more books by this author in the future. Better yet, I’d love to see this story in action on the big screen.

Questions or Comments?

If you have any questions for Cat Michaels and her new book, write her a note in the comment section below.

Feel free to tell us what you are up to and if you have any projects you’d like to share with us.

Have a wonderful June 2024!

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there!

As always,

Happy Reading,

Rosie

PS. If you missed May’s blog, you can read more here. ► J azzing It Up with Jazzy and Sonja McGiboney

New Release with Sandra Bennett

February 28, 2024 / rosieadmin / 6 Comments

Welcome to Books by Rose March 2024 as we dive into author Sandra Bennett’s new release, “Dragons Drumming.” If you live in areas where storms are abundant, you will want to get a copy of this one for your young readers!

Meet Author Sandra Bennett

Even though Sandra lives on the other side of the world from me, I feel we have always been kindred spirts and have the same ideals when it comes to, family, children and education.

Let’s get started.

Sandra, how did you arrive at your new story?

It was a dark and stormy night. You know how the rest of the story goes. You’ve heard it all before, … or have you?

In my case, it was a grey and gloomy afternoon. Storm clouds gathered on the horizon; distant thunder grew louder. By the time the storm blew across into our valley, the rain lashed sideways, striking our windows. The wind whirled through the trees as the rumbles became even louder grumbles. Lightning lit up the sky in sheets as bolts struck the ground. The house shook. My grandson was terrified. He clung to his mother for comfort, while my little dog scrambled for cover under the protection of her favourite hiding place, a bed.

It just took one simple sentence from my daughter-in-law to calm my grandson.

‘Don’t worry honey, it’s just the dragons drumming.’

I could see the glint in his eyes as my grandson considered this. His inquisitive mind immediately playing in overdrive. He peered through the window to the storm outside and tried to look towards the sky. Then, with a deep breath he bravely asked if he could go outside to get a better look at the dragons.

From that simple, innocent encounter, I knew a story was born. I could imagine an entire family of dragons, each playing a different percussion instrument. The commotion and possibilities were enormous and unstoppable.

How did you go about finding your illustrator?

I considered my options and quickly concluded that if I wanted to see this story published, I had to do it myself. Within various writing groups I had heard the names Tadaa Book and Anil Tortop many times. Then I happened to attend a SCBWI ACT lunch where I was shown the incredible work that Tadaa were doing for a friend. She had nothing but praise for working with them and so, my decision was made. I knew they were the perfect choice to help bring my dream to reality. After seeing several of the books that Anil Tortop had illustrated, I really wanted to work with her. Unfortunately, Anil was not available for twelve months as she was already booked. However, her husband, Ozan suggested that I look at the portfolios of several other illustrators he had on his books. I decided to go ahead with Maya Bora as I liked what I saw and believed she would be an ideal fit.

I adored Maya Bora’s illustrations right from the initial concepts. She seemed to just get me. We shared the same vision. The Tadaa Book team made the entire process so easy, stress free and enjoyable.

Sandra, here is my 5 Star review for “Dragons Drumming and where to buy on ► Amazon

“Author Sandra Bennett’s. “Dragons Drumming” is the perfect rhyming book for young readers who are afraid of storms. Illustrator Maya Bora sets the story with vivid colors to match this darling tale.
I wish I would have had a book like this growing up as we live where the storms are a large part of our spring. This book gives a positive twist to the thundering skies by imagining, “Dragon’s Drumming.”
I highly recommend this book for homes and classrooms which would make great read a louds. A child who is learning how to read will enjoy this book and will gain confidence as they work their way through the fun words.”

Sandra, what other books have you written you wish to share with our readers?

I also have a chapter book series for older readers, 7 -12 years. The Adamson Adventures is a four-book series, with the fourth and final book about to be released in June this year. This series takes three siblings, Zac, Clare and Luke on holidays to strange and amazing places where they inevitably fall into mischief and strife one way or another.

In Secrets Hidden Below, book1, the family is on vacation in exotic Bali when Luke happens to come across a map in a bottle buried deep in the sand on Kuta beach. Naturally, our reluctant heroes find a treasure map irresistible, and the pirate treasure hunt leads them to various locations around the island. Followed by a sinister shadow, the tension continues to increase right to the nail-biting climax in an erupting volcano. This book was short-listed in the Australian Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards in 2019.

A Lighthouse in Time, book 2, finds the family on yet another surfing holiday much closer to home. While exploring a cave on the NSW South Coast, the kids are lost, only to be rescued by a strange figure who quickly disappears once they reach the safety of sunlight. The mystery of the ghost-like figure unfolds around the ruins of an old sandstone lighthouse where all is not what it seems as many strange happenings occur.

Fossil Frenzy, book 3, takes a different turn as the kids head inland to their uncle’s drought-stricken farm in the harsh Queensland outback. Quite innocently, Zac, has a plan to help save the farm by searching for fossils. With the disbelief that a cyclone or two could possibly merge and rain down on them, the kids are caught in a terrifying storm and forced to seek shelter. When all is calm, and they emerge, the environment is suddenly very different. The trio appear to have time-travelled to the land of Australian dinosaurs. Now they must find a way home while trying to stay safe and not become a mega-raptors meal. This book has been a finalist in several international awards and won a competition to be pitched to film producers here in Australia in 2020. Tracks in the Mist, book 4 is almost here. The final thrilling adventure is set in the rainforest wilderness of Southern Tasmania as the kids go on a search and rescue mission to find their beloved secret pet that somehow goes missing from the farm. I don’t want to give away too much yet, suffice to say, they find much more in the Tasmanian wilderness than they ever expected. It’s a story of endangered species and the fight for survival.

Thank you so much for being here today, Sandra! I’ve enjoyed learning more about your new book. Best wishes on all your books and your writing journey!

If you have any questions or comments for Sandra and her books, please leave us a note below. I know she would love to hear from you.

What’s New at Books by Rose?

This short month has kept me busy with various activities. Yes, I’m still in the Goodreads Reading Challenges for 2024 and getting in a lot of books.

I’m also reading many books which will be released in the coming months, which you will hear more about. I have a project I’m working on for 2024 and very excited about that one, too. Keep watching!

Goodreads Challenge 2024

February, I’ve read and reviewed…

“Modern Fashion Illustration,” book by Holly Nichols gets a 5 star review from me all the way!
This easy to understand and practice guide is so helpful with traditional drawing and digital drawing, as well.
If you are interested in drawing, faces, bodies, designer clothes and other styles of fashions, this book is for you. Nichols also explains background ideas along with props to add to your projects.
I highly recommend this book.

Author Lori Luster with “Fashion Forward: Creating Your Look With the Best of Vintage Style (Craft It Yourself,)” is a fun fashion book everyone will enjoy. Styles from the 1920s – the 1990s will give readers a look at the various styles throughout these awesome decades.
Readers also are given suggestions on how to pull off these styles with items they can put together on their own.
I really enjoyed reading about some of these fads in clothing which I had forgotten about. Go-Go boots, Paper Dresses, the colors, fabrics, hairstyles, makeup and so much more.

Author Flora Ahn presents, “A Spoonful of Time” which brings readers many twists and turns. The recipes throughout this book to convey a history with her grandmother were interesting and worth looking into. This “time travel” book holds many mysteries to the end.

“The Big Book of Mod Podge: Decoupage Made Easy,” by Plaid Enterprises, Inc. was one I was excited to read. I really enjoyed learning about all the different Mod Podge products as I never knew of some of them were available.
The crafts and ideas made in the book are a bit dated since this book was written in 2015. Just the same, the techniques could be used for more updated projects.
One can also find projects from this company on Youtube which is helpful.

I adored Marion Ross’s book, “My Days: Happy and Otherwise.” As reluctant as she was to write her autobiography, she did a beautiful job relaying the story of her life with all her experiences in show biz and her personal journey. She may be best known as, “Mrs. C.” in “Happy Days,” but she has made many other wonderful movies, TV shows and plays to add to her list, plays being her hearts desires.
I didn’t want her book to end as it was like sitting down and visiting with a longtime friend.
I highly recommend this one if you like reading about stars. I’ve added this one to my favorites for this years reading list, so far.

Your Turn!

What have you been up to?

Writing any new books?

Working on art projects?

What books have you read this past month?

Please let us know in the comment section below.

As always,

Happy Reading!

Rosie

How to Find Time to Read

April 7, 2023 / rosieadmin / 6 Comments

In this Blog You’ll Find:

*Goodreads Challenge 2023

*Four Tips to Finding Time to Read

*What’s New at Books by Rose

*Books I’ve Read in March and Reviews

Goodreads Challenge

Since I’ve started the Goodreads reading challenge in January 2023, many have asked me how I find the time to read.

I plan to read fifty books in 2023. I’ve always read a lot, but, I haven’t always kept track of those titles. I wish I had now.

Being a children’s author and illustrator, children’s books are always welcomed on my to-read list. I did find out, books under 100 pages are not applicable under the reading challenge. Once you read a book and review it, it automatically goes into your reading challenge shelf. I have since taken those books out, but they still remain on my shelves of my, “read” list and I have reviewed them.

Here are four tips I found helpful for getting those titles read.

My Favorite Reading Time

One of my favorite times to read is in the morning with my first cup of coffee.

My mind is fresh. If I’m reading a nonfiction book, I’m more apt to learn about what I’m reading. As you’ll see, I have some nonfiction books and more, on my list from Goodreads at the bottom of this post.

Find your favorite time to read and enjoy.

Morning Reading — Image: Pexels – Vincenzo Malagoli

Appointments

If I know I have an appointment, I always take a book along. Kindle and audio books are great options for this, as well.

Read while you wait for an appointment — Have a book handy for appointments

Keep Books Close By

I keep a stack of my books handy to grab at any given time.

One can even get a few pages read waiting for dinner to be cooked.

If I know we are going somewhere, instead of getting involved in a big task, I take that time to get in a few more pages to read.

Don’t Forget to Read Cookbooks

I love cookbooks, but the one’s I love the most are ones filled with stories and how recipes came about. You can learn a lot of history through stories shared in cookbooks.

Before I get to those books I’ve read, I need to tell you about this…

What’s New at Books by Rose

My 13th book is live and we are having a wonderful book launch for 13 days. It’s so much fun! I appreciate all the wonderful people stopping by with their amazing comments. We have close to 175 names so far entered for prizes and we will have 13 winners. Don’t forget to stop by my “Books by Rose” Facebook page to check it out. Launch ends on the 12th of April and winners picked on the 13th of April!

Welcome, Big E’s Trick to Fishing

If you are unable to visit my book launch, you can take a look at Big E’s Picture Book here.

Amazon:

► Paperback – (Size 7X 10, 32 pages)

► Kindle

💚 Books I’ve Read in March and Reviews 💚

Drawing on The Dominant Eye: Decoding the Way We Perceive, Create, and Learn, by Betty Edwards.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Drawing on The Dominant Eye: Decoding the Way We Perceive, Create, and Learn,” by Betty Edwards was very interesting.
If you studied art and science in high school or college, much of the information in this book will come back to you.
Once learning the fundamentals on how our brains work, one can apply the drawing lessons towards the end of the book.”

Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain: The Definitive Edition by Betty Edwards.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (I found this one so fascinating, too!)

“Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain: The Definitive Edition” by, Betty Edwards was an interesting book in which I learned a lot. This edition was written in 2012 and had been updated many times. Watch for the updated version.

Edwards explains, drawing is much like learning the ABC’s and learning to read. The more you practice, the better you will get. This goes for most tasks, though. If you are aware of the left/right brain theories, different parts of our brains are what helps us do the things we do in everyday life.

She suggests to forget the noisy chatter in your mind and draw what you see. Pay attention to negative space, positive forms, angles, proportions and so much more.
Once the techniques in his book are applied with the important information given, most will find themselves a much better artist.”

Billy Miller Makes a Wish by, Kevin Henkes

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Readers 6-8 years old will enjoy the real life events of Billy Miller written by Kevin Henkes. “Billy Makes a Wish” is a story that will engage young readers. A perfect read aloud for further discussions on various topics.” ***(A bit of a spoiler alert. Since death may be a sensitive subject for young readers, caretakers may want to read this book first.)***

The Best is Yet to Come by Debbie Macomber

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I’ve read quite a few of author Debbie Macomber books and her 2022 release, “The Best Is Yet to Come,” did not disappoint.
Although this is an adult romance book, I think it’s safe to add it as an YA book, as well. The twists and turns were interesting and the outcome of the plot towards the high school issue was a surprise.
Readers will also enjoy this clean romance as Cade and Hope move through their relationship throughout the story.”

Starfish by Lisa Fipps

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Starfish,” By Lisa Fipps is an easy to read free-verse novel.

“It may be a painful subject for some, but the level of content is one that should be considered for discussion among readers.
I was so saddened by the mother’s take on her daughter’s weight. Thank goodness she had her father, a few friends and, of course her, therapist on her side.
Bullying is the strong subject here and should not be taken lightly.”

101 Lasagnas & Other Layered Casseroles by, Julia Rutland

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“If you like the concept of layered meals like Lasagna, you will enjoy this book by, Julia Rutland. “101 Lasagnas & Other Layered Casseroles,” is filled with a variety of options. I especially liked the non-tomato based recipes. The quick and easy instructions will please even the first time cook.”

The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Come and Get It! Simple, Scrumptious Recipes for Crazy Busy Lives by, Ree Drummond

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I enjoyed Ree Drumond’s easy to follow cookbook, “The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Come and Get It! Simple, Scrumptious Recipes for Crazy Busy Lives.”
There are step by step photos with instructions to go along with each recipe.
She has great stories about living on a ranch with her family and animals.
I loved the photographs, as well.
A perfect cookbook to refer to time and time again.”

What’s To Come…

I’m halfway through illustrating another Picture Book. I hope to get back to it in May. You all will enjoy this helpful, funny story for young readers. Okay, I’d better go before I say anymore. Excited for this next one, too! 😃😊

That’s all for this month. I hope you all have a wonderful April.

Let us know what has been keeping you busy. Any new projects? We’d love to hear from you.

As always,

Happy Reading!

Rosie

Jumping into Fall 2021 with Big News at Books by Rose

September 30, 2021 / rosieadmin / 8 Comments

Happy Fall and October everyone!

We have big news at, Books by Rose

I’ve just released my eleventh book! “Stella and the Four Seasons.” Woo hoo!

I hope you’ll enjoy celebrating this time with me and we’ll talk more about the “behind the scenes” of this book, too.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out my author friends posts about fall at the end of this post. You’ll enjoy reading what they have in store for this season.

Celebration poster — Celebrating my 11th book!

The Contest I Had For My Title Reveal.

Thanks to all my fans for showing up on my Facebook page to guess the letters and words for my title reveal. Here it is!

Fans had a fun time guessing each day. I wasn’t sure how long it would take, so authors, if you decide to do this, take it one day at a time. One wonderful thing about this? Everyone will remember the title of your book. I love that part.

Now For The Cover….

“Stella and the Four Seasons” is an Early Reader written in the form of acrostic poems, (we will get to more on that in a moment) for ages Preschool through 1st grade. Younger children will enjoy the bright, colorful images on the pages, too.

Cover of Stella and the Four Seasons — Stella and the Four Seasons

This 9×6, 32 page book is perfect for young readers to enjoy the four seasons. Stella tells what she loves the most about each one. Here’s something else that she offers! A search and find! How fun is that?

Acrostic Poems

As I stated earlier, each page on the left hand side will show an acrostic poem. On the right page, readers will search for the items or phrases listed.

What is an acrostic poem? Here’s how I explained it to readers on the first few pages.

Explanation of acrostic poems — What are acrostic poems?

Here’s an example of the first two pages.

Sample page of acrostic poems — The first two pages of “Stella and the Four Seasons

Why Was This Book Hard To Write?

This book has been something I’ve wanted to write for a long time. When I went to create these, acrostic poems, I had to find words that began with each letter. That was not always easy. We’ll, most words were easy for an adult, but not so much for a young reader to understand. So, this book turned into a learning book, as well.

Readers Will Learn About The Names Of New…

...and so much more!

In The Back Of The Book

If you and your family love to explore nature together, you will love the added activity in the back of the book.

Where To Find This Book?

Right now, it’s listed for paperback and kindle on Amazon. It will take awhile for expanding distribution channels to pick it up and I’m hoping for that to happen very soon. Keep watching.

Amazon’s listings here:

► Paperback

► Kindle

The paperback book is at a reduced price for $8.99 for a limited time only. The Kindle is only $2.99. We hope you pick up a copy for your young readers.

If you read this book, please let me know what you think. We’d love to hear from you and your reviews means the world to us. ❤️

Thanks for stopping by today, and as always,

Happy Reading!

Rosie

Now, check out these awesome blog posts!

Julie Gorges – A Fall Self-Care Bucket List to Make the Most Out of Autumn

Cat Michaels – What’s Not to Love? – Six Things to Make You Fall for Fall

James Milson – Happy Autumn, Pumpkin Spice, and Everything Nice about Fall!

Sandra Bennett – Spring Into The Season

Rebecca Lyndsey – Fall Favorites

Julie Schooler – 3 Harmful Habits to Cast Aside in the New Season

Auden Johnson – What’s on Your Fall Bucket List?

September Word Game, Coming News, and Fall Recipe

September 6, 2019 / rosieadmin / 12 Comments

September 2019 First Friday

Join me on this first Friday of September. Come sit and let’s visit.

Bench at a park in the fall — Welcome!
(Image: Pixabay)

These months are flying by faster and faster.

School has begun, for most. Wishing you all a wonderful and successful school year.

September Fun

When my sister and I were growing up, we loved playing word games. One of them, we called, “How Many Words Can You Find?” After putting on a timer for 5 minutes, we’d start and write as many as we could. We’d tally up our words and the one that came up with the most, won the game. It was fun to find long words to use. The longer the better.

If you play this game, adjust your time, according to ages.

What words can you find in “September?”

Here are a few I found.

pet

best

Let’s play this game together. Write a few words you see in the comment section below.

Exciting News

Remember last month, I wrote about my third “Maggie, Millie, and Merrie” story coming soon? If you missed it, you can read more here.

It’s finished!

It’s currently going through my Beta Readers. For those that may not know, Beta Readers are those that have agreed to read this story to help mark errors and suggest improvements. I call these wonderful people, my Street Team. Their advise and time is valuable and appreciated.

So, don’t forget to come back the first part of October to see the…

Cover reveal of new release coming in October — Cover Reveal
(Image: Pixabay)

When Will This Book Be Released?

I’m looking at the first part of November. Keep watching for my Book Launch with lots of prizes.

Don’t forget, to subscribe to my blog at the top right or at the bottom of this page for further updates.

Want to catch up on the triplets first two books? They are available in Kindle and paperback here.

In other news…

If you follow me on Facebook, at Books by Rose, then you saw this poster I made of a book I’m co-writing with Cat Michaels – Writer.

We asked our viewers if they were working on a WIP, and to share five words about their upcoming story. We had a great response and we are looking forward to all the wonderful books coming the rest of this year and in 2020.

Here’s five words on what Cat and I are writing about. It’s a MG tale and it’s coming together nicely. We are looking to release it in 2020.

Many people ask us how we write a book together when we live 725 miles away from each other?

We do this by working in Google Docs, emails, and many conference calls. I like to call them my “Chat with Cat” calls. Sometimes, our calls can go from one hour to close to three. We are getting better about keeping these calls shorter by organizing what we will discuss ahead of time. When this is all said and done, we may even write a piece on this for those out there working with a co-writer.

Do you have a WIP (Work in process) coming this year or 2020? Please let us know all about it or leave five words in the comment section below.

Before I leave, I want to share this recipe that I’ve had tucked away in my recipe box for years. I made this many times over the summer months. It was a big hit. With the fall months ahead, this dessert would be great for entertaining or after dinner dessert.

Apple Crisp Dessert

You can use any canned or fresh pie ingredients.

1 can of any pie filling

¾ cup instant Oatmeal

¾ cup flour

¾ cup brown sugar

¼ teaspoon soda

¼ teaspoon baking powder

½ cup of melted butter (1 stick)

Mix all of the ingredients above, except the pie filling, until crumbly.

Put half of the mixture in a greased 8 x 8 inch pan. You can use a regular size pie pan, as well.

Add your pie filling.

Sprinkle the other half of the mixture over the top.

Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 20 – 30 minutes, until golden brown.

Don’t forget to try different pie fillings, like cherry, blueberry, or strawberry. It’s great hot or cold. Some like it plain, and some like it with and dollop of whip cream or ice cream.

What are you looking forward to in September?

Please write us a note and tell us about your plans.

Don’t forget to play the “September” word game and leave a word in the comment section below.

I wish you all a fantastic September.

Happy Reading!

Rosie

Find out what my GR8Blog author friends have in store for this First Friday.

More GR8Blogs posts coming soon!