Archive for the ‘Contemporary Literature’ Category

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Jane Austen’s Dowries and Dalliances: A Literary Card Game
from Samantha L. Hastings

Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th Anniversary!

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Jane Austen’s Dowries and Dalliances: A Literary Card Game
Format: Games
Publication Date: 10/7/2025
ISBN: 9781797235578

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Hours of fun for Jane Austen fans of all ages: This literary card game features simple and satisfying gameplay with a beautifully illustrated deck full of favorite characters from all of the novels.

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Hold on to heroines like Emma Woodhouse and Anne Elliot to win the highest dowry as you gossip with Mrs. Bennet to gain insight into another player’s hand, send an opponent’s card eloping with John Yates to remove it from play, or use Mr. Darcy’s refusal to dance to skip the next player’s turn. Whether you steal, snub, trade, or quadrille your way to the end of the round, try not to be left with the Old Maid!

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LITERARY TWIST ON CLASSIC CARD GAME: Marriage is the name of the game in this Jane Austen-inspired game of trading, stealing, and claiming cards. Never be satisfied with less: Claim the highest dowry to win!

JANE AUSTEN FOREVER: Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary with this unique homage to her beloved novels. Illustrations by Meghann Rader bring each character to life, capturing the romance and eccentricity that make Austen’s books stand the test of time.

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GREAT FUN FOR LITERATURE LOVERS: This smart, elegant card game has Jane Austen trivia built in, with Dowry cards and Action cards inspired by each character’s role in Austen’s literary universe and a booklet full of character fun facts. Endeavor to keep company with the likes of Elizabeth Bennet, Elinor Dashwood, or Fanny Price to gain access to a valuable dowry sum. Border on rudeness with Frank Churchill, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, or John Thorpe to shake up the gameplay. Or fan the flames of scandal by ‘eloping’ with another player’s card, in the vein of George Wickham or Penelope Clay. There’s endless fun to be had.

BRILLIANT GIFT: This card game is easy enough to play with the whole family or as a book club diversion, and it makes a charming present for Janeites and other book lovers in your life.

Perfect for:

  • Jane Austen fans
  • Bibliophiles and bookworms
  • Family game night group play
  • Card game enthusiasts of all ages
  • Anyone looking for unique and beautiful literary gifts for any occasion

Purchase fromChronicle Books

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Samantha Hastings met her husband in a turkey sandwich line. They live in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she spends most of her time reading, having tea parties, and chauffeuring her four kids. She teaches World Literature at Brigham Young University. Her young adult fiction books are Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selections and her historical romances are published around the world. She also writes murder mysteries under Samantha Larsen that Publisher’s Weekly called “wildly enjoyable.”

Author Links 
Website   Instagram   Facebook   X   BookBub 

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Title Blast Participants

 October 8

Jemima Pett, Author              

Books, Ramblings, and Tea               

Jody’s Bookish Haven           

Salty Inspirations     

Books1987    

Sarandipity’s

October 9

Cozy Up With Kathy

Sarah Can’t Stop Reading Books

Maureen’s Musings 

Christy’s Cozy Corners        

Wine Cellar Library 

Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book

Sapphyria’s Book Reviews                

October 10

Ruff Drafts     

Baroness Book Trove             

FUONLYKNEW            

StoreyBook Reviews

Boys’ Mom Reads!

Rebecca M. Douglass, Author        

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

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Sometimes, one voice is all it takes to awaken hundreds.

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A New Life

Reflections of Michael Book 4

by L.J. Ambrosio

Genre: Contemporary LGBTQ Fiction, Coming of Age

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From America to the streets of Paris, A New Life follows two
friends as they navigate grief, love, and self-discovery in a city filled with
history and hope. A New Life is a story that lingers long after the last page.

What Readers are saying:

 “A heartfelt continuation of The Reservoir Man
series, taking readers on an emotional journey through friendship, grief, and
self-discovery. Set against the evocative backdrop of Paris, this novel follows
the touching bond between Ron, a kind and grounded man, and Louie, a young gay
man struggling with his sense of self.
Ambrosio masterfully portrays the evolving relationship between the two,
echoing the mentor-mentee dynamic seen in earlier books. Louie’s vulnerability
and innocence shine through, while Ron’s compassion and strength help guide him
through confusion and loneliness. Their moments together are filled with
laughter, conflict, understanding, and ultimately growth.
The emotional depth of this story is its true strength. From joy to sorrow, the
book invites readers to feel alongside the characters. The final scene is
especially poignant—both heartbreaking and healing.” – Amazon Reviewer

 

“A New Life continues the journey of familiar characters
we’ve come to love, and yes, we still get that charming bookstore setting and
Paris, which basically makes this the cozy, wanderlust-y read of the season.
Ambrosio knows how to tell a story that pulls you right in and gives you all
the feels. Ron and Louie’s friendship gets deeper, there’s a solid dose of
personal growth, and just when you think things are on solid ground—bam, a
twist. Classic.

If you’re already a fan of the trilogy, definitely keep going with this one.
And if you’re new to it all, start from the beginning—you’ll thank me later.” –
Amazon Reviewer

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Smashwords * Other Links * Goodreads

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**Don’t miss the previous books in the series!**

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A Reservoir Man

Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 1

 Find links on the Author’s Site

Reflections on the
Boulevard

Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 2

 Find links on the Author’s Site

Exiles

Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 3

Find links on the Author’s Site

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Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal
talent agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a
theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight seasons.
Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also distinguished himself as an
award-winning film producer and novelist over the course of his impressive
career.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Tumblr  * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a $20 giveaway!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

 



THE SUN’S SHADOW by Sejal Badani
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+), 331 pages
Genre:  Literary
Publisher:  Lake Union
Release date:   January 28, 2025
Content Rating:  PG: Has 2 sex scenes with subtle descriptions. No bad language.

 

Book Description:

“A captivating story… richly woven narrative with vivid characters. A perfect story.”

From the bestselling author of The Storyteller’s Secret comes an unflinching exploration of betrayal, forgiveness, and the healing power of a second chance.

Celine’s life is spiraling out of control. She’s in danger of losing the beloved equestrian farm that was her childhood home. Her distant husband, Eric, is devoting a suspicious amount of time to a stunning new colleague. Then her young son, Brian, receives a devastating cancer diagnosis. How much worse can things get?

Felicity has uprooted her career and her teenage son, Justin, to get closer to Eric. She’s tired of keeping his secrets―that Eric’s frequent “business trips” have been spent playing family with them. Felicity is determined to get her happily ever after, even if it means confronting Celine at a delicate time.

​But when Brian’s prognosis worsens, and a transplant from Justin becomes his best chance at survival, Felicity must make a wrenching decision about her son’s well-being―and Celine must accept that the “other woman” is her only hope. In another life Celine and Felicity might have been friends. Can they put aside the pain between them to do what’s best for their families―and their own futures?

 
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GUEST POST
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I Didn’t Know Being a Bestselling-Selling Author Meant

I had no idea that becoming a bestselling author would mean enduring hundreds of rejections before even scratching the surface of success. One of the most common questions I’m asked is what it felt like to have overnight success. The truth? I wouldn’t know.

Writing has been my dream for as long as I can remember. As a child, I devoured every book I could get my hands on and dreamed of one day seeing my name on a cover. At ten years old, I wrote my first novel—a story I cherished like a prized jewel. It was a perfect reflection of all my creativity and ambition. Looking back, though, I’m sure any editor would have had plenty to say about it.

As I grew older, my father had a different vision for my future. He often told me I could be anything I wanted—so long as it was either a doctor or a lawyer. So, I put my dream aside and followed the traditional path. I graduated from law school and began working as an attorney. But the pull of writing never left me. Eventually, I decided to take a leap of faith and return to my first love.

I poured my heart into writing—screenplays, short stories, drafts of novels—and submitted my work to agents with unshakable optimism. I was certain they would see the brilliance I felt in my own words. But instead of the validation I craved, I received rejection after rejection. Some of my proudest pieces didn’t even make it past the first gatekeepers. Each “no” chipped away at my confidence, leaving me questioning my talent and whether this career was meant for me.

Still, I refused to let doubt win. Every rejection letter became an opportunity: I gave them to my five-year-old daughter, who gleefully cut them up with her little scissors. It became a strange sort of ritual—turning discouragement into something lighter. And I kept going. I wrote more, refined my craft, and pitched my work to agents and publishers I had no business reaching out to. I was determined to see my dream through.

After years of perseverance, the tide finally turned. My debut novel, Trail of Broken Wings, was published—and the rest, as they say, is history.

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Meet Author Sejal Badani:

Sejal Badani is the Amazon Charts, USA Today, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Storyteller’s Secret and Trail of Broken Wings. She is also a Goodreads Best Fiction award and ABC/Disney Writing Fellowship finalist whose work has been published in over fifteen languages.

Connect with the author: Website  ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Pinterest
Instagram ~ Goodreads


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THE SUN’S SHADOW by Sejal Badani Book Tour Giveaway

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.



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Step One

by Grier Cooper

 

(Indigo Ballet Series)
Publication date: November 15th 2024
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult

When Indigo lands a role in Ballet Russia’s touring production of The Nutcracker, it’s a dream come true…. Or is it? Her arch nemesis is also part of the production. So is dashing Russian viral video superstar Dimitri Volkov, who’s playing some kind of game she doesn’t quite understand.

As Indigo dances alongside the rising stars of Ballet Russia she struggles to rise above constant criticism from Ballet Russia’s Director, Yuri Kanofsky. But first she’ll have to dig deep and silence the doubts running through her mind if she wants to rise to their level and drive her ballet career forward.

When unexpected events turn Indigo’s world upside down overnight she’s forced to decide how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get there.

And one innocent mistake just might cost her everything.

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“You.” The single word from Yuri yanks me out of my reverie. “Indigo, is it?” I nod numbly. “Come here, please.” Yuri points at the center of the floor then folds his arms and waits. I take my position there standing still.

“We begin like this,” he says, posing as I remember from the video of Irina. He shows me the first counts of eight for my solo and I mark the steps as I watch. I’ve memorized them after the second time he walks them through; thankfully I’ve always been quick to pick up choreography.

“You have it?” he demands gruffly. I nod. “Show me.” he steps back and leans on the barre at the front of the room, watching me intently, like a cat tracking a careless bird.

I spread my feet wide and bend forward at the waist, imagining the pose as I remember Irina did it. Aside from Yuri’s counting, the room is silent and still; I feel the others watching. But I can’t think about that. I must only think about the counts and where my body is going, one second ahead so I am there when I am supposed to be–

“No!” he claps loudly. “Let me see position again.” I recreate the pose I was in before he interrupted. “No.” he shakes his head vigorously. “It is like this.”

He strikes the pose. “You see?”

I don’t understand the difference but I don’t dare say anything. I nod.

“More energy in fingertips,” he suggests. I try again, this time I imagine sparks shooting out of my fingertips. This seems to work, since he lets me continue. I rise en pointe, bringing one leg into passé retiré, the toes touching the side of my standing leg near the knee.

“Stop.” More clapping. He marches over to me again. “Make me passé,” he says. I rise back into the position, more forcefully this time, but still he shakes his head. “It is impossible,” he states. “This is not passé. It must be in front of knee, like this,” he says, demonstrating.

Miss Roberta would frown on this placement, I think. Another example of how different ballet technique is from one company to the next, from one country to the next.

Still, I comply. Maybe it’s not such a bad thing to learn slight variations, to have more translations in my pocket. You never know when they might come in handy in the future. Another passé, then close in fifth position, and pirouette from fifth–

“No again.” He clenches his hands into fists this time and stomps over to Skinny Snow White. I catch the first word, “Olgachkova” and then get lost inthe flurry of words that follow, none of which I understand. When he falls silent,

Skinny Snow White nods in assent and replies, “Da.”

Skinny Snow White removes the plastic warmup pants she was wearing and makes her way over to me. Yuri flaps a hand at me impatiently, indicating I should step aside. “Olga will show,” he says, turning to her with an enormous smile of beatitude.

I edge out of her way, trying not to feel crushed. I know that having Olga dance in my place is meant to be a teaching tool, something to help me ultimately, but it still stings.

That feeling intensifies as she moves gracefully through the choreography, flowing smoothly through the passés and turns as effortlessly as a fish swirls through water. I try to focus on what she’s doing so I can learn. I’d like to figure out exactly what it is that Yuri’s looking for, that I haven’t got. Yet. But it’s almost impossible to ignore that this woman is one of the most exquisite dancers

I’ve ever watched.

I’ve told myself oodles of time I must never ever, under any circumstances, make comparisons–because comparison is always a losing game. But how not to when the glaring differences are practically smacking me in the face?

Yuri claps again. “Enough. Khorosho, blagodaryu vas, Olga. We will break. Return in twenty minutes.”

I stand paralyzed, mute with a flurry of thoughts pirouetting in my mind.

After watching Olga dance I don’t know how I will ever measure up. I want to, but it seems like an impossible task. Where to even begin? Who can help? Can anyone? What do I need to do to reach that same level of precision and perfection?

All I can think is that even if I were to sneak from my bed and dance all night long, wearing out pair after pair of pointe shoes every night up until our performances, like the Twelve Dancing Princesses fairytale, I’m not sure even that would be enough.

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About Author Grier Cooper:

Grier left home at fourteen to study at the School of American Ballet in New York. She has performed on three out of seven continents with companies such as San Francisco Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and Pacific Northwest Ballet, totaling more than thirty years of experience as a dancer, teacher and performer.

Her work has been praised as “poignant and honest” with “emotional hooks that penetrate deeply.” She writes and blogs about dance and has interviewed and photographed a diverse collection dancers and performers including Clive Owen, Nicole Kidman, Glen Allen Sims and Jessica Sutta. She is the author of Build a Ballerina Body and The Daily Book of Photography. Grier’s work has also appeared in Conscious Dancer, Discovery Girls, Skipping Stones, and Dance Advantage, among others.

Website / Goodreads / X

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.



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Dangerous Allure: A Dark Romance Anthology

Cole Denton, Dani René, Eden Bradley, Sara Fields

 

Published by: GTB Publishing LLC
Publication date: September 10th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Two’s company. Three’s a dangerously good time.

This deliciously dark collection of stories is flying all the red flags – these men will hunt, stalk, and conquer their prey

And leave them begging for more.

Whether working together to claim their prize, or fighting to be the last man standing, it’s only when you find yourself trapped between them that you realize: there’s no way out.

And maybe…that’s exactly the way you like it.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

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Enter to win a paperback copy here!

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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  Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and lessons along the way.

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Exiles

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Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 3

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by L.J. Ambrosio

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Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Coming of Age

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 In this final book in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, Michael’s
wish was for Ron to exile himself in the heart of Paris with its
beautiful culture and citizens as they protest and fight for the soul
of the city. Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and
lessons along the way.

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A story that began with A
Reservoir Man
, and continued in Reflections on the Boulevard,
concludes with this final book, Exiles.

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What readers are saying:

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Each character
Ron meets during his personal journey is unique, and they all feel
like real people, something Ambrosio has proven time and again is a
strength of his. If you enjoy literary fiction with an epic personal
journey woven through the pages, then you need to read this trilogy.”
– Amazon Review

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This book,
like the ones before it, evokes a range of emotions—laughter, fear,
excitement, wonder, and grief. Ambrosio’s ability to weave these
feelings into the narrative is what makes the trilogy so special.”
– Amazon Review

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Exiles is a
brilliant book that will leave you spellbound with its emotional
payoff. Author Ambrosio’s finale to the Reflections of Michael
Trilogy is a must-read for anyone who appreciates literary fiction
that speaks to the soul.” – Goodreads Review

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Amazon
* Apple
* B&N
* Kobo *
Other
Links
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

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CHAPTER ONE

 

A cool autumn breeze, in the twilight, wrapped around our exile who sat on a bench in front of a bookstore that resembled a place we might find in a Tolkien novel. On this street, rue de la Buccheri, was the bookstore Shakespeare and Company. The store itself was famous for housing the books of many great literary artists on their shelves. They also supported any young or old artistic vagabonds by allowing them to sleep in the aisles of the bookstore on makeshift beds when finding themselves homeless.

Ron, who managed the store, sat on this bench every evening thinking of Michael. Ron thought of things he remembered and how much he learnt from Michael. He felt the emptiness in his soul, yearning to have that connection just one more time. He had lived in Paris for six years now, a brief time for an exile, yet he was free from a society drowning in untruths; his refuge was the bookstore.

Just like every night, as Ron prepared to close the store, he occasionally checked the front of the store, looking for his friend. Then, he noticed another young man still looking at books on the outside shelves.

Ron moved outside to get a closer look at the late customer under the guise of moving the outdoor book bins back inside. He suddenly noticed that the young man was putting a book down his pants.

Ron raised his voice and shouted for the thief to put the book back on the shelf. The young man, caught in the act, ran away.

The young man sprinted and tripped while running past the café. In this stumble, he decided to turn the corner and make his way rapidly toward la Seine.

Ron, weak in the legs from forgetting the spirit of his youth, had been managing bookstores more than living life. His legs pumped forward. but with the awkwardness of an old man who had forgotten how to walk. In a few seconds he was up to speed and ran faster to catch the thief.

Near the corner, Ron had missed his opportunity to slow and check for other people walking, so he slammed into a group of women. He especially blasted into an old lady whose groceries flew into the sky, and a yogurt splattered against a wall and the faces of the other women. She turned to condemn her assailant, but he was already on the next block in pursuit of the thief.

He spotted the thief at the Notre Dame Hotel, out of breath, leaning against a pillar. Surprised at the thief’s choice to stop here, he slowed down and let his feet pound the street into a halt.

Ron grabbed at him but still missed his shoulder.

“Give me the book back!” he said, very loudly.

The thief just shrugged his shoulder, a mocking smile. His smile made the act of chasing him through the streets feel silly, as if this were a game that had been played and he took it too seriously.

The thief looked at Ron and asked, sarcastically, “What language are you speaking?”

“What do mean? I am speaking French!”

Our thief laughed, turned to a random man who walked down the street, and said, “This young man thinks he is speaking French Go ahead say something to this stranger; he will tell you are speaking some other language other than French!”

“I will call the police,” Ron said firmly.

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**Don’t miss the previous books in the series!**

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A Reservoir Man

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Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 1

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Find links on the Author’s Site

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Reflections on the Boulevard

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Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 2

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Find links on the Author’s Site

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 Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent
agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a
theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight
seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also
distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist
over the course of his impressive career.

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Website
* Facebook *
Twitter * Instagram
* Tumblr * Bookbub
* Amazon
* Goodreads

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.

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

.

 

 

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Enter to win  a Dragonfly Necklace – 2 winners.

.

A Print Copy of Exiles – 2 winners.

.

A $20 Amazon giftcard – 1 winner!

.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

.

.

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

.

  Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and lessons along the way.

.

.

Exiles

.

Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 3

.

by L.J. Ambrosio

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Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Coming of Age

.

 In this final book in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, Michael’s
wish was for Ron to exile himself in the heart of Paris with its
beautiful culture and citizens as they protest and fight for the soul
of the city. Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and
lessons along the way.

.

A story that began with A Reservoir Man, and continued in Reflections on the Boulevard,
concludes with this final book, Exiles.

What readers are saying:

.

Each character
Ron meets during his personal journey is unique, and they all feel
like real people, something Ambrosio has proven time and again is a
strength of his. If you enjoy literary fiction with an epic personal
journey woven through the pages, then you need to read this trilogy.”
– Amazon Review

.

This book,
like the ones before it, evokes a range of emotions—laughter, fear,
excitement, wonder, and grief. Ambrosio’s ability to weave these
feelings into the narrative is what makes the trilogy so special.”
– Amazon Review

.

Exiles is a
brilliant book that will leave you spellbound with its emotional
payoff. Author Ambrosio’s finale to the Reflections of Michael
Trilogy is a must-read for anyone who appreciates literary fiction
that speaks to the soul.” – Goodreads Review

.

Amazon
* Apple
* B&N
* Kobo *
Other
Links
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

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Reflections on the Boulevard

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Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 2

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 Michael’s story continues from A Reservoir Man (2022)
where we find him teaching at a university ready to retire. He
unexpectedly meets a young man named Ron who becomes his protege and
journeys in a haphazard adventure with him throughout America and
Europe, each twist and turn of the road bringing unexpected
adventures. The journey taken is one of joy, friendship and
discovery.

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Amazon
* Apple
* B&N
* Kobo
* Smashwords
* Author’s
Site
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

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A Reservoir Man

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Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 1

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 A Reservoir Mancritics
have hailed this explosive and timely work as “a must-read
coming-of-age story of 2022.”
 

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Twists and turns further pull the reader in to Michael’s action-packed
tale, with powerful themes, from betrayal and family to secrets and
identity.

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Be sure not to blink because you just might miss a pivotal moment in
Michael’s rousing, larger-than-life story.” –R.C. Gibson,
Indiestoday.com.

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This book is a dream, a gamble, a utopia, even.” — Kalyan Panja,
Bookmarkks.

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Everywhere Michael turns he sees a Reservoir Man. Michael’s endless trials of
survival include sexual assault, The Vietnam War, an arrest in Spain,
Hollywood scandal, the AIDS outbreak, 9/11 and beyond.

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If only Michael could find the one thing he values most, freedom.
Michael’s coming-of-age is tarnished by many but the courage to
live his truth may just keep Michael one step ahead…or will he
succumb to the embraces of a Reservoir Man?

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Amazon
* Apple
* B&N
* Kobo
* Smashwords *
Author’s Site
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

.

.

Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent
agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a
theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight
seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also
distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist
over the course of his impressive career.

.

Website
* Facebook *
Twitter * Instagram
* Tumblr * Bookbub
* Amazon
* Goodreads

.

.

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

.

 

.

Enter to win  a Dragonfly Necklace – 2 winners,

a Print Copy of Exiles – 2 winners,

a $20 Amazon giftcard – 1 winner!

.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

.

.

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Broken Fortune

by Aly Mennuti

 

Publication date: July 16th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Women’s Fiction

Broken Fortune explores the unraveling of a wealthy, blended family forced to reconsider their future together as their world falls apart around them.

Elizabeth Sunderland—a forty-three-year-old wife and mother of two teenagers—is the oldest of five children in a blended family that never quite blended. The only thing that has held them together is the iron will of their wealthy parents: Benjamin Sunderland, a venture capitalist, and Kate Bernard, a partner of a hedge fund. Together, Benjamin and Kate create and rule over a Manhattan dynasty of which their children each bear their own unique scars.

Elizabeth has been trying to keep the family together since she was ten years old, hoping to convince everyone they have more in common than just their fortune. This stance will be put to the ultimate test when Kate dies with one final request: that the family travel together to the island of St. John and spread her ashes in the ocean. However, Kate’s plan to fix the family will involve more than just a family trip to the sea.

As the hidden secrets and quiet betrayals built up over thirty years begin to ripple and crash like the ocean surrounding the sinking family, Elizabeth not only faces each of her sibling’s personal inflection points—moments that could lead to reconciliation or ruin—but she has to face her own demons that have laid dormant. What happens next will shock Elizabeth into recognizing a reality she had no idea existed.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

~~~~~

Enjoy this peek inside:

“How much money did you get?” Paul drops in, trying not to seem as outright aggressive as my other siblings but still trying to ferret out the information.

“It was nothing,” I say, trying to shut this conversation down.

“Oh, it wasn’t nothing,” Benjamin says. “It was over five million dollars.”

Everyone at the table looks ready to either spill their drink, fall off their chair, or turn me upside down to try and shake the five million out of my pockets.

“Can I have some?” Winnie says, shifting her attention for the first time this evening from my father to me.

“No,” Benjamin says sternly to Winnie. “Your mother is giving that back.”

“What about,” Paul says, daring to get between Benjamin and his money, “if you give us all five million dollars, so Lizzie doesn’t feel so alone. I mean…I’m sure my mother left something for all of us and Lizzie’s just came through first.”

“No,” Benjamin says. “Lizzie won’t feel alone when I have it back. Because none of you are getting any extra money. Everything that was Kate’s is now mine. That’s what we decided. And upon my death—which should be noted, won’t be happening anytime soon—you will all receive the entire inheritance split into five.”

“Wait,” Paul says, clearly upset. “Wait. She’s our mother. Mine. I’m her son. I mean, no offense to your kids Benjamin, but me…and Julian, we should get something now. Not have to wait until you die. You’re not my father.”

Paul’s words visibly cut through Benjamin, like an unexpected knife in the back. Even I can’t help but wince on his behalf—considering he’s spent the last thirty-three years trying to convince Paul he’s a reasonable, viable father. Meanwhile, he’s made not one corresponding overture in my direction, relegating me to the status of just an afterthought that will always linger…

About Author Aly Mennuti:

Aly Mennuti has always had two passions: philanthropy and literature. She satisfies one of those by being an executive at an international nonprofit consulting firm and has helped a diverse range of high-profile clients reach their philanthropic goals. However, she’s always had a desire to express herself creatively and carve out her own role as a writer in a writing family. Finally, in her forties (and with two children hitting their teens and deciding Mom is really uncool and not needed to hang out with anymore) she has the time and headspace to tell her own stories. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband, Nicholas Mennuti, a novelist and screenwriter, their two children, Charlie and Lilly, and their eccentric Goldendoodle, Barry.

Goodreads / Instagram / Twitter

 

Giveaway contest ribbon promo label prize. Vector giveaway banner badge design template

.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

.

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

,

  Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and lessons along the way.

,

.

Exiles

.

Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 3

.

by L.J. Ambrosio

.

Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Coming of Age

.

.

 In this final book in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, Michael’s
wish was for Ron to exile himself in the heart of Paris with its
beautiful culture and citizens as they protest and fight for the soul
of the city. Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and
lessons along the way.

.

A story that began with A
Reservoir Man
, and continued in Reflections on the Boulevard,
concludes with this final book, Exiles.

.

What readers are saying:

.

Each character
Ron meets during his personal journey is unique, and they all feel
like real people, something Ambrosio has proven time and again is a
strength of his. If you enjoy literary fiction with an epic personal
journey woven through the pages, then you need to read this trilogy.”
– Amazon Review

.

This book,
like the ones before it, evokes a range of emotions—laughter, fear,
excitement, wonder, and grief. Ambrosio’s ability to weave these
feelings into the narrative is what makes the trilogy so special.”
– Amazon Review

.

Exiles is a
brilliant book that will leave you spellbound with its emotional
payoff. Author Ambrosio’s finale to the Reflections of Michael
Trilogy is a must-read for anyone who appreciates literary fiction
that speaks to the soul.” – Goodreads Review

.

Amazon
* Apple
* B&N
* Kobo *
Other
Links
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

.

.

CHAPTER ONE

 

A cool autumn breeze, in the twilight, wrapped around our exile who sat on a bench in front of a bookstore that resembled a place we might find in a Tolkien novel. On this street, rue de la Buccheri, was the bookstore Shakespeare and Company. The store itself was famous for housing the books of many great literary artists on their shelves. They also supported any young or old artistic vagabonds by allowing them to sleep in the aisles of the bookstore on makeshift beds when finding themselves homeless.

Ron, who managed the store, sat on this bench every evening thinking of Michael. Ron thought of things he remembered and how much he learnt from Michael. He felt the emptiness in his soul, yearning to have that connection just one more time. He had lived in Paris for six years now, a brief time for an exile, yet he was free from a society drowning in untruths; his refuge was the bookstore.

Just like every night, as Ron prepared to close the store, he occasionally checked the front of the store, looking for his friend. Then, he noticed another young man still looking at books on the outside shelves.

Ron moved outside to get a closer look at the late customer under the guise of moving the outdoor book bins back inside. He suddenly noticed that the young man was putting a book down his pants.

Ron raised his voice and shouted for the thief to put the book back on the shelf. The young man, caught in the act, ran away.

The young man sprinted and tripped while running past the café. In this stumble, he decided to turn the corner and make his way rapidly toward la Seine.

Ron, weak in the legs from forgetting the spirit of his youth, had been managing bookstores more than living life. His legs pumped forward. but with the awkwardness of an old man who had forgotten how to walk. In a few seconds he was up to speed and ran faster to catch the thief.

Near the corner, Ron had missed his opportunity to slow and check for other people walking, so he slammed into a group of women. He especially blasted into an old lady whose groceries flew into the sky, and a yogurt splattered against a wall and the faces of the other women. She turned to condemn her assailant, but he was already on the next block in pursuit of the thief.

He spotted the thief at the Notre Dame Hotel, out of breath, leaning against a pillar. Surprised at the thief’s choice to stop here, he slowed down and let his feet pound the street into a halt.

Ron grabbed at him but still missed his shoulder.

“Give me the book back!” he said, very loudly.

The thief just shrugged his shoulder, a mocking smile. His smile made the act of chasing him through the streets feel silly, as if this were a game that had been played and he took it too seriously.

The thief looked at Ron and asked, sarcastically, “What language are you speaking?”

“What do mean? I am speaking French!”

Our thief laughed, turned to a random man who walked down the street, and said, “This young man thinks he is speaking French Go ahead say something to this stranger; he will tell you are speaking some other language other than French!”

“I will call the police,” Ron said firmly.

.

.

 Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent
agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a
theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight
seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also
distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist
over the course of his impressive career.

.

Website
* Facebook *
Twitter * Instagram
* Tumblr * Bookbub
* Amazon
* Goodreads

.

.

Follow the blitz HERE for special content and a giveaway!

.

.

.

Enter to win  a Dragonfly Necklace – 2 winners.

.

A Print Copy of Exiles – 2 winners.

.

A $20 Amazon giftcard – 1 winner!

.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

.

.

 

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

.

  Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and lessons along the way.

.

.

Exiles

.

Reflections of Michael Trilogy Book 3

.

by L.J. Ambrosio

.

Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Coming of Age

.

 In this final book in the Reflections of Michael Trilogy, Michael’s
wish was for Ron to exile himself in the heart of Paris with its
beautiful culture and citizens as they protest and fight for the soul
of the city. Ron’s journey is met with life-affirming friendships and
lessons along the way.

A story that began with A
Reservoir Man
, and continued in Reflections on the Boulevard,
concludes with this final book, Exiles.

What readers
are saying:

 

Each character
Ron meets during his personal journey is unique, and they all feel
like real people, something Ambrosio has proven time and again is a
strength of his. If you enjoy literary fiction with an epic personal
journey woven through the pages, then you need to read this trilogy.”
– Amazon Review

.

This book,
like the ones before it, evokes a range of emotions—laughter, fear,
excitement, wonder, and grief. Ambrosio’s ability to weave these
feelings into the narrative is what makes the trilogy so special.”
– Amazon Review

.

Exiles is a
brilliant book that will leave you spellbound with its emotional
payoff. Author Ambrosio’s finale to the Reflections of Michael
Trilogy is a must-read for anyone who appreciates literary fiction
that speaks to the soul.” – Goodreads Review

.

Amazon
* Apple
* B&N
* Kobo *
Other
Links
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

.

.

CHAPTER ONE

 

A cool autumn breeze, in the twilight, wrapped around our exile who sat on a bench in front of a bookstore that resembled a place we might find in a Tolkien novel. On this street, rue de la Buccheri, was the bookstore Shakespeare and Company. The store itself was famous for housing the books of many great literary artists on their shelves. They also supported any young or old artistic vagabonds by allowing them to sleep in the aisles of the bookstore on makeshift beds when finding themselves homeless.

Ron, who managed the store, sat on this bench every evening thinking of Michael. Ron thought of things he remembered and how much he learnt from Michael. He felt the emptiness in his soul, yearning to have that connection just one more time. He had lived in Paris for six years now, a brief time for an exile, yet he was free from a society drowning in untruths; his refuge was the bookstore.

Just like every night, as Ron prepared to close the store, he occasionally checked the front of the store, looking for his friend. Then, he noticed another young man still looking at books on the outside shelves.

Ron moved outside to get a closer look at the late customer under the guise of moving the outdoor book bins back inside. He suddenly noticed that the young man was putting a book down his pants.

Ron raised his voice and shouted for the thief to put the book back on the shelf. The young man, caught in the act, ran away.

The young man sprinted and tripped while running past the café. In this stumble, he decided to turn the corner and make his way rapidly toward la Seine.

Ron, weak in the legs from forgetting the spirit of his youth, had been managing bookstores more than living life. His legs pumped forward. but with the awkwardness of an old man who had forgotten how to walk. In a few seconds he was up to speed and ran faster to catch the thief.

Near the corner, Ron had missed his opportunity to slow and check for other people walking, so he slammed into a group of women. He especially blasted into an old lady whose groceries flew into the sky, and a yogurt splattered against a wall and the faces of the other women. She turned to condemn her assailant, but he was already on the next block in pursuit of the thief.

He spotted the thief at the Notre Dame Hotel, out of breath, leaning against a pillar. Surprised at the thief’s choice to stop here, he slowed down and let his feet pound the street into a halt.

Ron grabbed at him but still missed his shoulder.

“Give me the book back!” he said, very loudly.

The thief just shrugged his shoulder, a mocking smile. His smile made the act of chasing him through the streets feel silly, as if this were a game that had been played and he took it too seriously.

The thief looked at Ron and asked, sarcastically, “What language are you speaking?”

“What do mean? I am speaking French!”

Our thief laughed, turned to a random man who walked down the street, and said, “This young man thinks he is speaking French Go ahead say something to this stranger; he will tell you are speaking some other language other than French!”

“I will call the police,” Ron said firmly.

.

.

 Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent
agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a
theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight
seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also
distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist
over the course of his impressive career.

.

Website
* Facebook *
Twitter * Instagram
* Tumblr * Bookbub
* Amazon
* Goodreads

.

.

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

.

 .

Enter to win:

  a Dragonfly Necklace – 2 winners,

a Print Copy of Exiles – 2 winners,

.

a $20 Amazon giftcard – 1 winner!

.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

.

.

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.