Search Results

Book review of The Rabbi's Knight by Michael J Cooper . ISBN: < Back The Rabbi's Knight Michael J Cooper Historical Fiction, Thriller; Crusades, historical adventure, Kabbala Koehler Books Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a world torn apart by the Crusades, a Knight Templar and a rabbi embark on a perilous journey to protect a sacred legacy, navigating treachery and faith as they seek to unlock the secrets of Kabbalah amidst the chaos of war. Set against the volatile backdrop of 1290, when the twilight of the Crusader states gave way to the rising power of the Mamluks, The Rabbi’s Knight delivers a richly detailed historical adventure. The novel immerses the reader in the final, desperate days of the Holy Land, exploring themes of faith, conflict, and the enduring quest for a common good. This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction who appreciate the religious and political, especially those surrounding the Crusades. The story centers on one of the most compelling odd couples in historical fiction: Jonathan St. Clair, a Knight Templar seeking esoteric wisdom, and Rabbi Samuel ben Daniel ha-Kohen, a master of Kabbalah. St. Clair pursues the Rabbi in Safed, believing the scholar holds the key to deciphering a crucial inscription. Their burgeoning partnership, however, is immediately threatened by treachery from all sides—the Mamluk emir’s guards and the internal religious dissent embodied by Rabbi Solomon Petit in Acre. The initial, violent flight from Safed, followed by the tragic burial of Samuel’s disciples, establishes a high-stakes pace that rarely lets up. The journey to Jerusalem is fraught with intrigue and spiritual exploration. While the Rabbi and St. Clair narrowly escape the emir's early betrayal, their companions, Isaac and Wallace, execute a crucial interception in Acre, reclaiming a scroll containing sensitive defense secrets. The novel shines as St. Clair and Rabbi Samuel, traveling in disguise, delve into the deeper meanings of the Torah and Kabbalah, illuminating the narrative's central message: the interconnectedness of all peoples and the divine order of the universe. The novel builds to a dramatic and heart-wrenching climax within the holy city. Working with al-Hasani, the group uses St. Clair’s scroll to identify the Tomb of Zechariah as a hidden portal into the Temple Mount. As the emir’s guards close in, the ailing Rabbi Samuel makes the ultimate sacrifice in the Garden of Gethsemane, to draw the enemy away. The conclusion is both tragic and unifying. St. Clair, now forever changed by Samuel’s teachings, returns to Acre to face the inevitable siege, standing with his companion Zahirah. Their final, united stand against the Mamluks provides a strong, if somber, testament to the enduring spiritual truths they uncovered, cementing the novel as more than just a war story—it’s a testament to shared humanity. Previous Next

Find a quick list of services and products that can help promote your book. Sales & Marketing Independent Press Award and NYC Big Book Award Magazine Reaching over 15,000 librarians and booksellers, 25,000 additional book lovers and consumers. Contact the Publisher Ted Olczak Ted@GabbyBookAwards.com Reach out today! PublisherConnection High quality agency work at a fraction of the price. Custom marketing. Reach out to us with your custom request at 4mindshare@gmail.com . Reach out today!

Need a book cover? a typesetter? help in designing your masterpiece? Take a look at the design services available here. Design 1106 Design, Michele DeFilippo, owner Do you want to learn more about working with 1106 Design? Great! We want to know all about you and your book too! Phone: (602) 866-3226 Learn More Toelke Associates Toelke Associates has over 25 years’ experience in all aspects of custom book & publication design. We provide complete design & production services that are tailored to your unique project with specialization in illustrated non-fiction, exhibition catalogs, and historical / cultural subjects. Voice/text: Ron 518-392-3040 | Amelia 518-755-3215 Learn More XD Design 30 plus years of design. Contact Nando at 4mindshare@gmail.com . Learn More

Book review of A Clique to a Cult by Justin Foster . ISBN: < Back A Clique to a Cult Justin Foster Mystery Palmetto Publishing Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a small Mississippi town, a power-hungry lawyer's ruthless manipulation and abusive control over his family and community unravel after a near-fatal car explosion forces him to confront the dark legacy of his deceitful life. The Twisted Grip of Power: A Deep Dive into Haven Springs' Dark Heart: A Clique to a Cult (Novella) by Justin Foster Haven Springs, Mississippi, hides a dark secret beneath its surface: the insidious rise of the Smalls family. Carter, a ruthless judge, and Emmylou, an equally ambitious lawyer, manipulate their way into power, ensnaring the town's elite. Their sons, Zach and Bryson, become pawns in their game. Zach suffers the brunt of his father's abuse, while Bryson navigates the treacherous landscape. Carter's tactics include blackmail and drug use, solidifying his control over the Mansfield Academy school board. Emmylou reinforces their influence. Their arrogance grows with their power, marked by outbursts and a chilling disregard for outsiders. A public humiliation at a football game ignites Zach's rebellion. A hunting trip accident exposes the Smalls' deep corruption. Carter's abuse intensifies, Emmylou's affair is revealed, and their carefully constructed facade crumbles. A violent confrontation leads to their downfall. Zach finally escapes his father's grasp, a symbol of hope amidst the wreckage. While the story explores power, corruption, and resilience, its melodramatic events and literary shortcomings limit its appeal. Previous Next

Book review of Holiday Spirit Book 2: Destroy All Monsters! by John DeGuire . ISBN: 979-8990870932 < Back Holiday Spirit Book 2: Destroy All Monsters! John DeGuire Werewolf, monsters, urban fantasy, revenge, psychological John DeGuire Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A werewolf fights to save her husband from a fanatical militia while navigating a world where monsters are hunted and friendships are tested. “Holiday Spirit Book 2: Destroy All Monsters!” is a monster mash genre-defying sequel that pivots from classic gothic horror to an international thriller. The atmospheric dread of Paris and London combined with the feel of an action movie, DeGuire creates a landscape where the “monsters” are often the most human characters on the page. A blend of urban fantasy, science fiction, and drama, DeGuire reimagines the icons. Seeing Dracula as a vulnerable husband and Aoife as a fierce protector turns these legendary figures into relatable protagonists. The inclusion of Saul Frankenstein, acting as the group’s chronicler, adds a meta-layered perspective on what it means to be an outsider. The story follows the gothic antiheroes, Aoife the werewolf, her husband Count Dracula, best friend Saul Frankenstein, and the invisible Dr. Ralph Ellison, as they are captured by the mad Dr. Moreau. Maria, a vengeful gypsy witch, seeks retribution against the group for pain inflicted on her family. The narrative cleverly explores the ethical rot of scientific progress and religious fanaticism, pointing out ‘real monsters.’ Through the Church of Latter Day Monster Hunters and the skeptical medical establishment, the book poses the cutting question: “Is a werewolf more dangerous than a man with a scalpel or a radical ideology?” The characters, each grappling with their own struggles and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity, must escape their captors and survive the plot twists and challenges that test their understanding of redemption and purpose. The cinematic sets are grand and imaginative. From Kong’s tragic stand at the Eiffel Tower to the chaotic collision of gothic vengeance and high society at Paris Fashion Week, the pacing is relentless. DeGuire balances a high-speed speedboat chase on the Niagara River with the psychological tension of a Parisian psychiatric ward. Despite the body count and the “creature feature” elements, the ending is surprisingly poignant. The themes of resilience and the birth of a new generation offer a glimmer of hope amidst the wreckage of betrayal and death. “Destroy All Monsters!” is a bold, dark, and witty ride. It is for fans who want their classic horror tropes dismantled and rebuilt into something faster, bloodier, and more meaningful. Ideal readers are enthusiasts of classic monster tales reimagined with modern twists and fans of dark fantasy and horror. Previous Next

< Back 18 Award-Winning Books for Your Summer Reads TBR List. From thrillers to global memoirs. Reported by Printed Word Reviews As the days stretch longer, there is no better companion than a book that challenges the mind and stirs the soul. The 2025 NYC Big Book Awards and the 2026 Independent Press Awards have curated a collection of global authors for your next TBR list. Whether you are looking for a pulse-pounding thriller for the beach, a transformative self-help guide in the living room, or a poetic journey into the self, this summer’s reading list offers a plethora of human spirit and great storytelling. Thrills, Shadows, and Global Stakes For those who crave high-octane adventure rooted in raw, lived experience, Angela Greenman’s The Child Riddler (Winner, NYC Big Book Award) is an essential pick. Greenman, an international nuclear communications expert, draws from a childhood of homelessness and gang violence to craft Zoe, an elite operative who is essentially a female James Bond. It is a story of a hero who defeats the darkness, written by a woman who did the same in real life. If your taste leans toward the psychological, Diana Louise Webb’s Last of the Autumn Rain (Distinguished Favorite, Independent Press Award) offers a “surgical precision” of the human psyche. Webb employs Hemingway’s “Iceberg Theory,” focusing on the “why-we-do-it” when humans are pushed to the absolute brink. Christopher Johnston’s Where You Come From Is Gone (Winner, Independent Press Award) adds a layer of literary gravity to this summer’s list. A first-time novelist who honed his craft under the disciplined influence of Peter Geye, Johnston explores the raw friction between estranged brothers. Drawing inspiration from Tim O’Brien’s The Things They Carried , Johnston’s narrative serves as a study of how characters navigate moral minefields. It is a poignant exploration of the idea that while our origins might be “gone,” the internal scars of where we come from dictate who we become. For fans of epic and dark fantasy, Michaela Riley’s Labyrinth of Shadows: The Witch's Rebirth Part I (Winner, NYC Big Book Award) and Sara Fanfarillo’s Everlasting (Distinguished Favorite, NYC Big Book Award) provide immersive escapes. Riley’s work is a testament to family legacy and ancestral resilience, while Fanfarillo explores the “strange and shifting realities” of memory and potential. For the Young (and Young at Heart) Summer is a season of growth, and several award-winning authors have turned their talents toward nurturing the next generation. Heidi Solomon-Orlick’s I Have a Voice: A Book of Listening (Distinguished Favorite, NYC Big Book Award) helps children aged 4–9 identify their inner truth. Solomon-Orlick, a powerhouse advocate for women in business, proves that leadership and empathy begin in the nursery. David Knoll’s Santa’s Kid of the Year (Distinguished Favorite, NYC Big Book Award) is a delightful holiday-themed adventure with a year-round message: “being kind is cool and being a bully is cruel.” Claudia Daher’s R.A.T.S: Revolutionary Army of Teens (Distinguished Favorite, Independent Press Award) offers a science-fiction lens on social resilience, seeking to fill the “emptiness” many adolescents face with themes of unity and family values. Memoirs of Resilience and Recovery Perhaps the most moving entries this year are those that document the triumph of the spirit over systemic and personal trauma. Ivona Olofsson’s The Soul of War: Ukraine – Where Every Step Tells Their Story (Winner, NYC Big Book Award) is a definitive account of the human face of conflict. As the daughter of Polish WWII survivors and a professional therapist, Olofsson documents the “invisible scars” of war with a poetic yet unflinching lens. In a similarly brave vein, Maria Engstrom’s Restrained (Winner, Independent Press Award) details her harrowing journey through psychosis as a medical doctor. Engstrom’s memoir is not just a personal account but a professional call to action, advocating for compassionate, dignity-based mental health care. For those seeking spiritual recovery, Nancy W.’s Dear G-d: A Conversation with G-d, While on the Road to Recovery offers a 460-page intimate journey from addiction to healing through honest, daily dialogue with a higher power. Wisdom for Personal and Financial Growth If your summer goal is self-reinvention, Dr. Fang Miao’s Love To The Extreme: A Miracle Unfolds (Winner, NYC Big Book Award) introduces the Meta-Cognitive Root Awareness (MCRA) framework. Dr. Miao’s work helps readers move beyond surface-level fixes to find profound personal transformation. For more pragmatic growth, Dr. Stacker’s Beginner’s Guide to Growing Wealth and Investing is an “instruction manual” for lasting legacy. Drawing from his experience of building and losing a multimillion-dollar portfolio, Stacker focuses on systems over hustle and identity over tactics. Laura Muirhead also provides two distinct paths for growth: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to My Life , (Winner, Independent Press Award), which reflects on the unexpected twists of a lived journey, and Queen Code: The Book , which offers frameworks for grounded leadership and self-trust. Art, Poetry, and the Cosmos For a sensory experience, look no further than Lee Woodman’s Colorscapes . This collection of ekphrastic poetry explores the weight of the color spectrum, from the "Sari Reds" of an Indian childhood to the "Gallery Greys" of the Smithsonian. Similarly, Paris Rosemont’s Barefoot Poetess offers an intimate journey through the human condition, blending cultural identity with the absurdities of the modern world. In non-fiction, JoAnne M. Spiller’s Visionary Designs by Bill Smith, tj . (Distinguished Favorite, NYC Big Book Award) rescues the history of a forgotten Black jewelry designer from the archives, bringing history to life for a new generation. Finally, for those who believe it is never too late to start over, Joe Sarkic’s Veil of Dawn's Promise (Distinguished Favorite, Independent Press Award) is a must-read. After leaving a manuscript in a binder for 40 years, Sarkic returned to his craft to create a work of "cosmic expansionism," proving that the "harshest critic"—ourselves—can eventually be won over. Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

Boo k CAMP by Printed Word Reviews IN THIS ISSUE: Diana LaGuardia, American magazine design director. Recipient numerous awards, Art Directors Club New York, American Institute Graphic Arts, Society Newspaper Design. Member Society Publication Designers (board directors 1985-1986, vice president 1986-1987, pres.1987—; recipient numerous awards). New York Times Magazine, New York City, 1977-1983, department art director, 1983-1986, art director, 1986-1988. Design director Traveler Magazine Conde Nast Publications Inc., since 1988. Kevin Kamen, Founder & CEO of New York-based Kamen & Co Group Services, LLC, a multi-media valua tion, accounting, and brokerage firm has been selected to assist the wealth reporters at FORBES as they determine the financial value of the Richest Americans within the multi-media sphere. Thank you! Thank you for subscribing to BookCAMP magazine. Allow for up to 8 weeks to get your new copy. In a short time, you will learn better ways to publish, distribute and market your book. In addition, you will have full access to our databases Find out more in the newest edition of BookCAMP! Join us at the conference, details here: www.ipaBookCamp.com Title: BookCAMP by Printed Word Reviews ISSN: 2994-4406 * Frequency: Five times annually, Quarterly plus extra issue Issue Dates: February; May; MFA annual; August; November; BookCAMP 2024 event Past Issues November 2025 - January 2026 Annual 2025 issue, Fall Book Shows August 2025 - October 2025 May 2025 - July 2025 February 2025 - April 2025 November 2024 - January 2025 Annual 2024 issue, Fall Book Shows August 2024 - October 2024 May 2024 - July 2024 February 2024 - April 2024 November 2023 - January 2024 Annual 2023 issue, Fall Book Shows Find out the secret to self-publishing success; what to consider when choosing a printer, book designer, and PWR’s Best Practices on Content – what should be included in a professionally published book. Find out what a full-service national distribution company really does. Included is a directory of Publishing Services & Products. Join us this year at the BookCAMP event, http://ipabookcamp.com/

Book review of Killer Friends by Chris Karlsen . ISBN: 979-8272683571 < Back Killer Friends Chris Karlsen Historical Fiction, Mystery/Crime, Literary, investigation Independently published Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In 1892 London, detectives Ruddy and Archie unravel a web of deceit and betrayal as they investigate the mysterious disappearance of businessman Phillip Newell, leading them to confront a ruthless killer with a personal vendetta. In “Killer Friends,” Chris Karlsen transports readers to the soot-stained streets of 1892 London, delivering a historical mystery that balances meticulous period detail with the grit of a modern thriller. Part of the Bloodstone series, this fourth installment proves that even in the Victorian era, some of the deadliest threats come from those we once trusted. The novel thrives on its Victorian atmosphere. Karlsen immerses the reader in a world of gaslight, fog, and rigid social hierarchies. As a historical mystery, the book leans heavily into its setting, using the period’s investigative limitations to heighten suspense. It is a perfect match for fans of Anne Perry or C.S. Harris who appreciate a detective story where the backdrop feels like a living character. The narrative kicks off with an unsettling discovery: the disappearance of Phillip Newell and the shooting of his loyal dog, Snowball. This immediate act of cruelty sets a dark tone for the investigation led by Detectives Ruddy and Archie. What starts as a missing persons case quickly evolves into a calculated murder investigation. The antagonist, Eric Lawry, is driven by a toxic mix of resentment and business-related grievances. The early reveal of the culprit, Eric and his accomplice Leo, shifts the book from a “whydunnit” to a high-stakes “how-will-they-catch-him” pursuit. The strength of “Killer Friends” lies in its procedural elements. Ruddy and Archie are methodical, navigating a web of deceit that spans from high-society business dealings to the shadowy corners of the Chameleon Club. The introduction of Honoria Underhill, a former Pinkerton agent, adds a fresh layer to the team. Her presence hints at the changing social tides of the era and provides a compelling foil to the established detectives. In addition, the investigation turns personal and perilous when a decoy operation results in the death of an officer. This tragedy serves as a turning point, stripping away the “adventure” of the chase and replacing it with a grim, urgent need for justice. The story culminates in a visceral confrontation at a bank. In true Victorian thriller fashion, the resolution isn't found in a quiet parlor room, but through a dramatic shootout. While the detectives eventually bring the perpetrators to justice, the victory is hard-earned and bittersweet. The ending provides a much-needed breath of air, as a recovering Ruddy looks toward a future with Honeysuckle, grounding the high-octane plot with human emotion. “Killer Friends” is a standout historical mystery that excels in character development. By including a historical note on Ruddy’s military service, Karlsen adds a layer of authenticity that makes the protagonist feel anchored in real history. If you're looking for a mystery that combines the procedural rigor of the “Pinkertons” with the atmospheric tension of “Victorian London,” “Killer Friends” is a must-read. It’s a story of perseverance that reminds us that while friends can be “killers,” justice has a very long memory. Previous Next

Audiobooks Item Title Read More Item Title Read More Item Title Read More

< Back A New Chapter for the Book Industry: Allison Belan Appointed to Lead BISG Reported by Printed Word Reviews The Book Industry Study Group (BISG) is entering a new era of leadership. The organization, which serves as the central nervous system for publishing standards and supply chain efficiency, has announced that Allison Belan will serve as its ninth executive director. Belan steps into the role as a seasoned industry veteran, succeeding Brian O’Leary, who is retiring on June 30 after years of guiding the organization through a period of significant digital upheaval. Belan’s appointment brings a wealth of "boots-on-the-ground" experience to the BISG. She joins the group following a 22-year tenure at Duke University Press, where she most recently served as Director of Strategic Innovation and Services. During her time at Duke, Belan was responsible for technology operations and publishing infrastructure for both books and journals. Additionally, Belan led the launch of the Scholarly Publishing Collective, a critical publishing services business that manages content hosting, sales and fulfillment for nonprofit publishers. Matt Kennell, BISG Board Chair, emphasized that this technical fluency is exactly what the organization needs. "Allison joins BISG with hands-on knowledge of our core topics, including supply chain, metadata, rights management, and accessibility," Kennell noted, adding that she possesses the "C-suite credibility" required to unite stakeholders across the publishing landscape. The BISG is the quiet engine behind how books move from authors to readers. Over the last 50 years, the group has been responsible for the industry’s most vital infrastructure, including the creation of BISAC subject codes; transition to the 13-digit ISBN; and the ongoing development of modern metadata standards. Belan is taking over at a pivotal moment. She highlighted the organization’s "Book Publishing Next" initiative, an ambitious roadmap designed to modernize the book supply chain, as a primary reason for her excitement. "Its contributions are foundational to the modern supply chain," Belan said. "I’m honored and excited to be a part of the transformations that BISG will lead in the future." While Belan’s official start date is June 22, the baton-passing process is already in full swing. To ensure a smooth handover from O’Leary, the BISG has organized a series of meet-and-greets over the next several weeks, giving members a chance to engage with the new director before she formally takes the reins. As publishing grapples with new challenges in AI, global logistics, and digital accessibility, Belan’s background in strategic innovation suggests that the BISG will continue to be the steady hand guiding the industry toward its next chapter. Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back NYC Big Book and Independent Press Award-winning Notables Reported by Printed Word Reviews Nonfiction & Memoirs Deadly Dilemma: A Memoir (Anthony Gurley) : This nonfiction work explores intense personal challenges and high-stakes decisions, earning recognition as a NYC Distinguished Favorite. Latina Madrina: Stories, Lessons, and Hard Truths From A Brown Latina In Tech (Julissa S. Germosén) , WINNER in Women's Issues, is a powerful, award-winning guide that blends a raw narrative with strategic career advice to navigate tech industry hurdles. A Fraction Stronger (Mark Berridge) : An inspiring IPA winner that details the author’s journey of recovery and resilience after a life-altering accident. Dancing on My Own Two Feet (Jenn Todling) : Recognized in New Nonfiction and Motivational categories, this memoir follows a journey toward independence and a fresh start. My Life in Business Suits, Hospital Gowns, and High Heels (Tom LeNoble) : This Distinguished Favorite offers a vulnerable look at shifting between professional success and medical struggles. Fiction & Genre Blends The Secret War of 1834 (B. B. LeClere) : A Distinguished Favorite in the Cross-Genre category that weaves historical intrigue with unique narrative elements. A Widow's Wish (Caytlyn Brooke) : Taking the WINNER spot in Erotica, this story explores themes of desire and longing following a loss. The Immortal Witness (Clifton Wilcox) : This Distinguished Favorite provides an expansive and immersive journey through the Epic Fantasy genre. Harvest of Eyes (Clifton Wilcox) : A chilling Distinguished Favorite that delves into the unsettling and macabre world of Horror. I, Monster (Clifton Wilcox) : Recognized in Military Fiction, this story examines the darker side of conflict and the human psyche. Cool’s Last Stand (Clifton Wilcox) : A Young Adult fiction piece that captures the pivotal moments and struggles of youth. The Case Against Jasper (Clifton Wilcox) : Another Young Adult standout that balances mystery with the complexities of adolescent life. More Than You Know (Gary E Smith) : A WINNER in the Political Thriller category, delivering high-stakes suspense and intricate plotting. Invaders of the Heartland (James Bultema) : This WINNER in Crime Fiction explores gritty investigations and local mysteries. Arctic Red (James Bultema) : A WINNER in Military Fiction that transports readers to a cold, high-pressure tactical environment. Ghosts of the Past (Mark Downer) : A General Fiction WINNER involving a dangerous search for lost WWII art treasures. Hazardous Lies (Stephen J. Wallace) : Recognized as both a WINNER in Thriller and a Distinguished Favorite in Techno-thriller for its fast-paced, high-tech tension. Walking on Nathan's Grave (R. Luce) : A General Fiction WINNER that takes readers on a metaphysical journey between heaven and hell. Children’s & Young Adult Georgia's No-Nonsense Nose (Carla Crane Osborne) : This multi-award winner took top honors for Book Cover Design and Children's Fiction for its charming and practical storytelling. Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends (Jen Kirkley) : A Distinguished Favorite that teaches children the value of friendship and kindness. Birdie's Picnic Party (Jessica McAnelly) : A Distinguished Favorite Picture Book that cleverly introduces food safety concepts to children ages 4–8. Nurse Florence® Series (Michael Dow, RN, MS) : These WINNING educational books, including a visually impaired edition, provide medical knowledge to children in an accessible way. The Central Park Irregulars (Paul Cicchini) : A Middle Grade WINNER that offers a spirited adventure set in the heart of New York City. The Sons & The Stars (Rey A. Banda) : An inspirational Distinguished Favorite that uses celestial themes to encourage young readers. Sticky Pineapple And The Little Precious Gems (Stephanie Boag) : A Distinguished Favorite in Children's Education that helps kids understand how they came into the world. Health, Self-Help & Spirituality Adjusted Reality (Dr. Sherry McAllister) : A WINNER in Health & Fitness that focuses on optimizing longevity and "whole-being" wellness. Restore Me! But Privately Please (Dr. Susan Agbenoto) : A WINNER in Christian Nonfiction that addresses the need for personal restoration and spiritual healing. Guidance from the Universe (Jill Amy Sager) : A Distinguished Favorite in Mind, Body, Spirit that offers hopeful messages for navigating daily obstacles. In Quietness, Confidence, & Strength (Rev. Dr. Terrlyn L. Curry Avery) : A Distinguished Favorite focused on deepening relationships through the power of prayer. Dismantling Racism (Rev. Dr. Terrlyn L. Curry Avery) : This Distinguished Favorite explores healing the internal and external divisions caused by racial separation. 9 Habits of Happy Retirees (Sarah Barry) : A WINNER in Self-help that provides practical advice for a fulfilling and joyful retirement. SECOND CHANCES (Sheetal Ohri) : A WINNER in Relationships that explores the possibility of renewal and growth in personal bonds. Custodial Battle (Sheetal Ohri) : A Distinguished Favorite focused on the motivational struggles of an immigrant mother fighting for her children. Sticky Pineapple And A Powerful Mind (Stephanie Boag) : A WINNER in the Pregnancy and Childbirth category, emphasizing a positive mindset during the wait for a baby. Professional, Educational & Career Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry (Kathryn Troutman) : A WINNING Reference guide for veterans and government employees entering the private sector. Federal Resume Guidebook, 8th Edition (Kathryn Troutman) : A Distinguished Favorite that remains a staple resource for navigating government career paths. The Art of Being a School Counselor (Nancy Regas) : A WINNER and Distinguished Favorite that explores the vital role and techniques of educational counseling. Backstage Grace (Yolanda Simmons) : A Distinguished Favorite career guide on how to serve others with poise, heart, and professional excellence. Creative Arts, Poetry & Miscellaneous So Much to Drool About (Barbara Stone) : A WINNER in the Gift Books category that celebrates living large with a playful perspective. The Book of Lost Innocence (Glenn Taylor) : A Distinguished Favorite Anthology that collects diverse stories centered on the theme of lost innocence. Uplift (Jessica Mann) : A Nature WINNER that highlights the beauty and restorative power of the natural world. Dracula: Finding of a Shadow (Lisa Monde): A WINNER in the Audiobook-Fiction category, bringing a fresh theatrical take to the classic vampire legend. Teach Me How to Die (Lisa Monde) : A Distinguished Favorite collection of short stories and a novella exploring mortality and human connection. Soaring to New Lows (Margaux Dunbar Hession) : A WINNER in Addiction & Recovery that uses humor to detail the chaotic journey of a rock star’s wife. A Land Filled With Horses (Robyn Rominger) : A WINNER in the Animals/Pets category that celebrates the bond between humans and horses. Avoiding Muddy Foxholes (Jim Loveless) : A WINNER in Military Nonfiction recounting the intense experiences of an American bombardier. P.E.A.C.E. (Yolanda Simmons) : A Distinguished Favorite poetry collection exploring spiritual evolution, time, and personal transition. Framed as a fictional memoir, Hunting the Red Fox (W. Kenneth Tyler, Jr.) follows Perry Barnes as he recounts his journey from a WWII special operations trainee to a 1950s professional golfer and gentleman jewel thief seeking redemption and a lost love. Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest

< Back Interview with Ted Olczak Reported by Printed Word Reviews Ted, I was so proud to be the first expert speaker at your very first BookCamp: 2024, a wonderful three-day book publishing conference in New Jersey. Tell us more of what your vision is for BookCamp: 2025 -- and when is the next one? Ted Olczak: BookCAMP is designed to provide practical, useful information and strategies, and connect publishing professionals. No BS. Actually Brian, you were among the first individuals I considered when curating this event, as your expertise aligned perfectly with the profile I envisioned. This year’s event is already bringing more star power with ‘teeth’. Publishers will walk away educated and connected. BookCAMP 2026 will be in April, I’ll be announcing details May 4th. Brian Feinblum: Why did you see a need for BookCamp? Ted Olczak: Publishers and authors need more education, better direction, and more connections they can rely on for expertise to help them sell more books. BookCAMP accomplishes that: https://www.ipabookcamp.com/ Brian Feinblum: You used to sell advertising space at Publishers Weekly and worked later with IBPA. But the last number of years you have been running several book awards. Tell us about those. Ted Olczak: Yes, I began with Publishers Weekly in the early 90s, and then again for nearly a decade in the 2000s. IBPA was my client then. I later worked with them and put together Publishing University for four years. To me, they weren’t delivering like I thought they could. Authors and publishers want results and to sell more books. Vendors want to help. Reviews and awards highlight key titles, but many authors do not leverage its potential. The Independent Press Award, www.IndependentPressAward.com , is designed to help those struggling authors and publishers find a way to break through the clutter, THEN help them sell books. NYC Big Book Award was created to include the Big 5 publishing houses who were excluded from the Independent Press Award. They saw the value of what I was doing, so we invited them to enter the fall NYC Big Book Award program. Brian Feinblum: You also sell advertising for the New York Times Book Review and for Times Square billboards. How do those translate into book sales or author branding? Ted Olczak: Major exposure and bragging rights. You’re not going to sell enough books during the campaign, but over time it translates. You need to know how to apply compound marketing to drive sales and improve your visibility. Brian Feinblum: You have been involved in book publishing for 30+ years. What changes have you seen over the decades? Ted Olczak: It’s even easier for anyone to get published, and to be successful. In the 1990s, some fifty publishers controlled 80% of the industry, with very few channels to get books to readers. This is no longer the case. Now, anyone with a word doc can get a .epub and sell on Barnes & Noble within 48 hours, and be distributed globally more quickly than I have ever seen. Brian Feinblum: What predictions or trends do you see for the book industry? Ted Olczak: More use of artificial intelligence; greater distribution channels with the disappearance of other channels, MORE books. BookCAMP as an industry leader. Brian Feinblum: How do you encourage a new author to find his or her way into the publishing world? Ted Olczak: We all need help, best-selling authors to first-timers. Come to BookCAMP, and whatever industry or author event you can find. Learn from others and create networks that can help you in the future. With a great idea and persistence to see it through, anyone can be successful. Brian Feinblum: What’s next for you? Ted Olczak: Printed Word Reviews will be taking over IPA BookCAMP formally and create greater educational and networking opportunities. Printed Word Reviews currently reviews university presses, independent authors and small press books, https://www.printedwordreviews.com/magazine and makes them available through the Independent Press Awards, https://www.independentpressaward.com/falconreviews . We will continue to push the boundaries of book advertising and marketing with creative and innovative methods to reach readers. Feel free to contact Ted Olczak directly at Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com . Share this article Copy link LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest