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< Back Red Lines James Bultema Military Fiction P.D. Publishing Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack on Independence Hall, President Mark Taylor rallies the nation for a decisive military response against Iran, while a group of enraged veterans takes matters into their own hands, igniting a complex conflict that intertwines personal vendettas with geopolitical stakes. Red Lines: A New Military Thriller Explores the Gray Areas of Conflict In "Red Lines," a new military thriller, author James Bultema plunges readers into a world of high-stakes international conflict. The novel, written in a fast-paced, action-packed style, explores the complexities of modern warfare, examining themes of patriotism, resilience, and the sacrifices demanded by national security. The story ignites with a devastating terrorist attack on Independence Hall, leaving the nation reeling. In response, President Mark Taylor faces immense pressure to retaliate. As tensions escalate, the narrative unfolds across multiple fronts. On American soil, Joe Cartwright and his fellow veterans, driven by a raw sense of justice, take matters into their own hands, targeting local Lebanese gangs. In Iran: General Arman Shirvani, an ambitious military leader, aggressively pursues the country's nuclear ambitions, fueling the flames of conflict. In the political arena: The U.S. National Security Council grapples with agonizing decisions, weighing the potential consequences of military intervention against the need to protect national interests. The story follows a diverse cast of characters: Commander Mateo Navarro, leading his submarine crew on a perilous mission in the Persian Gulf. Major Navid Shadmani, an Iranian officer torn between loyalty to his country and his own moral compass. There is Lieutenant Brett Jansen, navigating the mine-infested waters of the Persian Gulf; Lieutenant Commander Sarah Freeman, facing personal and professional challenges aboard the USS Reagan; and CIA agent Dallas Steele, deep undercover in Iran, gathering crucial intelligence on the country's nuclear program. As the conflict intensifies, the story delivers pulse-pounding action sequences. SEAL Team 10 executes a daring mission to secure the Ahvaz Oil Field. Next, Lieutenant Commander Jessie Hampton commands aerial engagements with unwavering skill. Lastly, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Amir Massad, orders a preemptive missile strike, pushing the world to the brink of war. The climax of the novel sees a series of coordinated U.S. military strikes that cripple Iran's infrastructure and military capabilities. This decisive action leads to significant shifts in Iranian leadership, with Dr. Amir Mehrabi emerging as a key figure advocating for democratic reforms. "Red Lines" is ideal for fans of military fiction, geopolitical thrillers, and stories of personal and national heroism. It offers a thought-provoking exploration of the moral dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of international conflict, leaving readers with a lasting impression of the profound sacrifices demanded by the pursuit of peace and security. Previous Next

< Back J.J. March A Dream-Born Epic: Author's Journey to "First Novel" and Historical Fantasy For this debut novelist, the path to authorship was a serendipitous journey, sparked by a vivid dream that transcended the initial trajectory of a dystopian project. What began as a different story entirely transformed into the foundation for a compelling medieval historical fantasy, imbued with religious mystery. Upon awakening from the dream, J.J. March immediately embarked on outlining and researching the narrative, driven by an undeniable urge to tell this particular tale. March attributes much of his inspiration to the positive role models in his life, most notably his late father. A retired Suffolk County Police officer, Dad exemplified bravery and integrity. Beyond his heroic acts, which earned him a bravery medal, it was his everyday kindness and dedication to family that left an indelible mark. His ability to bring laughter, instill the importance of familial bonds, and offer unwavering support during challenging times inspired March to emulate his character. The absence of new memories with March’s father is a poignant reminder of his lasting influence. Rather than a single literary figure, March draws inspiration from a broad spectrum of historical figures who courageously faced adversity or made significant contributions to humanity. This appreciation for historical resilience and impact informs the depth and complexity of their narrative. Gratitude is extended to family and friends for their encouragement, particularly to the March’s wife, Patty. Initially intended as a personal project, meant only for a small circle of loved ones, Patty's encouragement as an avid reader propelled the author to seek wider publication. This pivotal support transformed a private endeavor into a published work. The author describes his writing as "thrilling medieval historical fantasy blended with a touch of religious mystery." This concise description captures the essence of a narrative that seamlessly weaves historical settings with fantastical elements and thought-provoking religious themes. The journey from a vivid dream to a published novel is a testament to the power of inspiration and the importance of unwavering support. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Vatican Daughter Joni Marie Iraci Historical Fiction, Thriller, Secrets Collective Ink/Round fire Books Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a world where the secrets of the Vatican threaten to unravel, a mother’s desperate quest to reclaim her daughter from the clutches of the Church's dark past forces her to confront powerful men willing to kill to protect their sins. "Vatican Daughter" plunges readers into the secretive world of the Church, masterfully blending historical intrigue with profound religious themes and complex family dynamics, all set against the breathtaking backdrops of Venice and Vatican City. Brimming with hidden agendas and the lengths people will go to silence their sins, it’s a story that spans over a decade, starting from the election of the very first American Pope. The core of "Vatican Daughter" ignites with a revelation involving a future pope Joseph Morris that sets off a chain of events spanning twelve years. We meet Sophia Mariana Travato, a woman in Venice living with a lost past. But when a familiar sensation triggers a flood of memories, Sophia remembers a profound connection and a child. This revelation ignites a burning desire to find her daughter, Nevaeh, setting Sophia on a perilous path toward Rome, where she suspects her past might be waiting. As Sophia's journey unfolds, it becomes clear she's not the only one navigating a treacherous landscape. Within the hallowed halls of the Vatican, a young girl possesses a unique understanding of ancient scriptures, a knowledge that makes her a target. Powerful figures within the Church see her as a threat to their interests, such as Cardinal Roselli, the Machiavellian figure driven by ambition, self-preservation and fear. The arrival of an inquisitive journalist Chris DeMarco only adds to the escalating tension, promising to uncover long-buried truths that could shake the very foundations of power. The novel builds to a compelling climax where secrets are finally unveiled, and the threads of destiny begin to intertwine. Amidst growing pressures within the Vatican, a mother's determination to reclaim her life and protect her child takes center stage. The resolution promises to reveal the extent of the cover-ups and the lengths to which individuals will go to maintain control, leaving readers contemplating the true cost of hidden sins and the fight for accountability. The narrative is brought to life by a memorable cast of characters, each playing a pivotal role in the unfolding drama: from the Pope whose past ignites the conflict, to the determined mother seeking her child, to the powerful figures within the Vatican with their own agendas, and the sharp-witted journalist poised to expose the truth. "Vatican Daughter" is a gripping tale of secrets, sin, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of justice and redemption. It’s a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the intricate dance between power, faith, and personal conviction. The novel's intricate plot and complex characters promise to captivate readers interested in the depths of human nature and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets and loved ones. Previous Next

< Back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Share this page: Printed Word Reviews eNewsletter Printed Word August 28, 2025 Printed Word Reviews Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com https://www.printedwordreviews.com/ August 2025 - library edition Share with a friend Connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ =========================== IN THIS ISSUE OverDrive's Digipalooza Recap New Reviews at Printed Word Reviews Interviews Coming Soon =========================== Digipalooza Delivers: A Premier Event for Librarians in the Digital Age Every two years, OverDrive hosts Digipalooza, see what we think: https://www.printedwordreviews.com/articles/digipalooza-delivers%3A-a-premier-event-for-librarians-in-the-digital-age ========================================== Hello readers, here are the latest reviews and interviews: Vatican Daughter In a world where the secrets of the Vatican threaten to unravel, a mother’s desperate quest to reclaim her daughter from the clutches of the Church's dark past forces her to confront powerful men willing to kill to protect their sins. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781803417981 The Amazing World Beneath the Waves Dive into the depths of our planet's most enigmatic frontier with Gloria Barnett's "The Amazing World Beneath the Waves," a book that proves science can be both captivating and crystal clear. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781838064372 A. Nonny Mouse: Magical Moon Mouse Finds Merry Christmas When a whimsical moon mouse named A. Nonny embarks on a journey to Earth to find a MERRY CHRISTMAS in a box for his friend's birthday, he discovers that the true magic of Christmas lies in love and selflessness. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781885708113 ===================================== Featured Printed Word Review FALCON book review: Transitioning Your Federal Resume to Private Industry: Are You at the Fork of the Road? This book serves as an indispensable resource, expertly bridging the gap between the often-complex federal resume format and the concise, results-driven expectations of private industry hiring managers. Read more at https://www.printedwordreviews.com/bookreviews/9781733777933 ===================================== Gab Talks Interviews President of the Independent Press Award speaks with R.w. Meek, author of "The Dream Collector:", published by Historium Press https://www.independentpressaward.com/thegabtalks/the-dream-collector%3A-sabrine-%26-vincent-van-gogh-(book-two) See the publisher Historium Press' video trailer, https://youtu.be/17hGF3bc6rE ===================================== Printed Word Reviews Interviews Ted Olczak, Publisher of Printed Word Reviews, at ALA with Orca's publisher Andrew Wooldridge, https://youtu.be/vlAT1E3ALKM ======================================= Sponsored by the Independent Press Award Receive recognition! The Independent Press Award is designed to recognize excellent books published by independent authors and publishers, self-published and traditional authors in 12 main categories (100 total subcategories). Next rolling deadline is September 30th, https://www.independentpressaward.com/ , all books to be received by December 15, 2025. Winners announced every spring. Big Book Award includes the Big 5 Publishing Houses has now concluded, https://www.nycbigbookaward.com/ . Winners announced October 20, 2025. Be recognized and have your winning title published in Printed Word Reviews magazine. ======================================= COMING SOON REDESIGN of Printed Word Reviews logo, https://www.printedwordreviews.com/magazine See us this coming month at: September 6-7: Printers Row Lit Fest September 10: New England Independent Booksellers Association Conference (NEIBA) September 13-14: Baltimore Bookfest September 16: Book Manufacturing Mastered September 20: Arlington Town Day September 21: Brooklyn Book Festival ======================================= (c) 2025 Ted Olczak. Please forward and share this newsletter in its entirety. Previous Next

< Back The Darden Kids From PTO Meeting to Page-Turner: How a Mom's Job Sparked a Movement It started with a murmur in the back of a school auditorium. An ordinary Tuesday night PTO meeting, the kind where parents gather to discuss school events and fundraisers, took an unexpected turn for one PTO President. Amidst the hum of adult conversation, a different kind of chatter arose – the excited whispers of her four children. "They were talking loudly," she recalls, "and when I asked what all the fuss was about, they told me none of their friends or classmates believed I was a construction manager." It wasn't a new revelation. The disbelief was a recurring theme, a constant surprise expressed by children at community events and school presentations. But this time, something clicked. The question lingered: why was it so hard for these children to imagine a woman, let alone their friend's mother, in a construction role? A conversation with her children ensued, a deep dive into the stereotypes and preconceived notions that limited their classmates' imaginations. And from that conversation, a book was born: "My Mom is a Construction Manager," written by the Darden Kids and their mom. This isn't just a biographical tale; it's a mission. The book chronicles the author's journey from a young girl fascinated by Legos, puzzles, and math to a successful construction business owner, author, and e-course creator. But its core message is far broader: to break down stereotypes and show young people, especially girls, that they can build their futures in any field they dream of. The author emphasizes the powerful influence of representation. "What they see is what they will be, when you see me you can be me," she states, highlighting the importance of showing children what's possible. Her own journey is a testament to the power of positive influence. She credits her parents, both educators, with instilling in her the belief that she could achieve anything. "They empowered me to believe I could do anything," she says. "Their guidance and dedication to learning taught me to value education and to trust in my abilities." Their unwavering support helped her navigate the challenges of being a young African American woman in a male-dominated field. After building $2 billion in construction projects, she took the leap and started her own construction business, a move directly inspired by her parents' belief in her. Equally influential are her four children. They were the catalyst for the book, their innocent disbelief sparking a desire to challenge perceptions. "Their initial conversations with classmates, who couldn’t believe their mom worked in construction, sparked the idea for the book," she explains. "They brought fresh perspectives to the project, helping to ensure the book would resonate with young readers." The book, along with its accompanying construction plushie, is more than just a story; it's a tool for empowerment. It's a way to show children that their dreams are not limited by societal expectations, that they can break down barriers and build their own paths. It's a message that resonates far beyond the pages of a book, inspiring a generation to see beyond stereotypes and build a future where anything is possible. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Brightness the Bird Girl Annie Wood Picture Book-All Ages Mio Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a whimsical world where the Sun and the Sea nurture her, a peculiar bird girl named Brightness, who feels out of place among both birds and humans, embarks on a journey of self-discovery to embrace her unique identity and the joy within her. A Gentle Tide of Self-Discovery: "Brightness," a whimsical and poetic tale, gently washes over readers with its lyrical prose and evocative illustrations. This story, set against the serene backdrop of a nurturing beach, delves into the heart of self-discovery and belonging, making it a perfect read for young minds and anyone seeking a moment of introspective calm. The narrative introduces us to Brightness, a unique protagonist with the face and beak of a bird, lovingly raised by the Sun and the Sea. Her world is one where nature and introspection intertwine, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Brightness, however, grapples with a profound sense of otherness. She feels neither fully bird nor fully human, a conflict beautifully symbolized by a single blue feather she treasures. This feather, a relic of her fledgling days, represents her longing for connection to the bird world, a world she can't fully inhabit due to her lack of wings. The book excels in its exploration of identity and purpose. Brightness's internal struggle is palpable, her restless mind filled with questions about her place in the world. The narrative takes a significant turn when she shifts her focus from what she lacks to what she possesses. This moment of self-discovery, where she creates a list of her abilities, is a powerful reminder of the joy and fulfillment that comes from appreciating one's strengths. This pivot, beautifully executed, allows Brightness to see the beauty around her and, more importantly, within herself. A pivotal moment arrives when the Sea reveals the true meaning behind Brightness's name: she was named for who she already is, not for any potential she might possess. This poignant revelation reinforces the book's central theme of intrinsic value, a message that resonates deeply. The resolution is both heartwarming and satisfying. Brightness embraces her unique identity, finding peace and happiness in her own skin. The story concludes with a hopeful image of Brightness smiling at the world, a symbol of her acceptance and contentment. This ending powerfully underscores the book's message of self-acceptance and the importance of recognizing one's inherent worth. "Brightness" is more than just a children's book; it's a beautifully crafted narrative that invites readers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery. With its rich, imaginative storytelling and profound themes, it offers a meaningful and engaging experience, leaving a lasting impression of hope and acceptance. This is a book that will undoubtedly spark meaningful conversations and inspire readers of all ages to find the "brightness" within themselves. Previous Next

< Back Turner Gorbaty Tim Turner and Moisey Gorbaty, authors of “The Reluctant Conductor” Meet award-winning authors Tim Turner and Moisey Gorbaty, authors of “The Reluctant Conductor” The writer of the extraordinary, critically-acclaimed play, "Out Late," emerges with a powerful, emotionally reverberant debut novel that captures the hardship, oppression, and hope of a Jewish merchant’s life before, during and after World War II in the USSR. In a world mired in bigotry and hate, Elazar, a young Jewish violinist in search of redemptive love and transportive music, survives World War II in the Soviet Union. Drifting back and forth between Ukraine and Uzbekistan between 1922 and 1944, Elazar navigates wedding-night steam rooms and birch-branch floggings; rivers of refugees and rivers of blood; lice and typhoid and refugee tent camps; horse-drawn carriage rides through betrayal and death and flattened shtetls; and the small luxuries of the desperate, a simple plate of chicken and cabbage. But in this literary symphony, there is always, always, the ebb and flow of music, weaving in and out of a life lost in the terrifying wilderness, searching for family and home. With its romantic war-era setting, layered characters and captivating love story, readers care about learning if the hero finds what he is looking for. The Reluctant Conductor is the first novel in a tetralogy. Part 2, entitled The Power of Music, is coming in 2025. To learn more, visit https://turner-gorbaty.com/ . Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Restore Me! But Privately Please Dr. Susan Agbenoto Christian Westbow Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest "Restore Me! But Privately Please" by Dr. Susan Agbenoto is a Christian book that addresses the silent struggles and spiritual fatigue of Christian leaders, offering a guide for private, personal restoration and spiritual healing while navigating the burdens of their public roles. In "Restore Me! But Privately, Please," Dr. Susan Agbenoto offers a compassionate and much-needed guide for Christian leaders and ministers grappling with private struggles while maintaining a public facade. This book is not just an analysis of the problem; it's a lifeline, emphasizing the critical importance of spiritual self-care and personal restoration. Dr. Agbenoto's book dives deep into the often-unspoken loneliness and hidden battles that plague those in ministry. The introduction sets a powerful tone, revealing the masks leaders wear to appear strong, while silently dealing with exhaustion and spiritual fatigue. The author's use of startling statistics and personal anecdotes underscores the urgency of her message: the Body of Christ is in need of healing, and it must begin with its leaders. The foreword by Dr. Reggie Abraham and endorsements from others highlight a core theme: the necessity of returning to the basics of faith—prayer, fasting, and humility—as a foundation for true restoration. This sets the stage for a book that is both deeply spiritual and eminently practical. The book is structured to guide the reader on a journey of healing, starting with an exploration of loneliness and the concept of rest. Dr. Agbenoto encourages readers to find their peace and solace in God's presence, rather than seeking it in their service. She then delves into the nature of the soul, distinguishing it from the spirit and stressing the need for regular cleansing and healing, particularly from trauma. The chapter on the "enemies of the soul" is particularly insightful, using King David's life as a powerful example of a leader's challenges. Throughout these chapters, Dr. Agbenoto masterfully weaves in scriptures, prayers, and meditations, making the book an interactive experience rather than a passive read. The inclusion of these spiritual tools provides the reader with a practical roadmap for self-reflection and connection with God. The core thesis of "Restore Me! But Privately, Please" is that effective service springs from a place of personal wholeness. The book's strength lies in its ability to not only diagnose the problem but also provide a tangible solution. It is a compassionate plea for leaders to prioritize their spiritual and emotional well-being, assuring them that it is not a sign of weakness but a prerequisite for sustained, fruitful ministry. This book is a vital resource for Christian leaders, ministers, and anyone feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities. It serves as a powerful reminder that true strength is found not in a tireless public image, but in private surrender and restoration at the feet of Jesus. If you are a leader who feels broken or weary, this book offers a gentle invitation to lay down your burdens and find renewed strength and purpose. It is a vital and encouraging read that is long overdue. Previous Next

< Back SHRED! Running and Being Kevin Carollo Mind, Body, Spirit North Dakota State University Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In the midst of a pandemic and personal loss, Carollo navigates the complexities of life through the transformative power of running, reflecting on connection, resilience, and the search for meaning. Finding Pace in a Pandemic is a deeply personal exploration of running, writing, and navigating modern life, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carollo invites readers into his daily routines, from caring for his cat Gracie to battling anxiety dreams, revealing how running provides solace and a way to process the world's complexities. The pandemic's impact is palpable, as Carollo describes the challenges of maintaining a running streak during lockdown and the importance of movement for mental well-being. He interweaves poignant tributes to his mother and reflections on loss, including his father's passing and his partner's mother's dementia diagnosis, demonstrating how these personal struggles connect to broader themes of running and being. Descriptions of his runs immerse the reader in the physical and mental experience, while poetic reflections capture the essence of his journey. He also delves into social and political issues like climate change and economic inequality, revealing how they intersect with his personal life. Through past running experiences and contemplations of the future, the author emphasizes the cyclical nature of life's journey and the importance of movement, connection, and self-discovery. Ultimately, the book argues that running and writing are essential practices for finding purpose and navigating life's inherent challenges. It offers a perspective on the interconnectedness of life, loss, and the pursuit of meaning, making it a read for anyone interested in personal narratives exploring physical activity, mental health, and contemporary issues. Previous Next

Nominate the movers and shakers under 40 years of age in the publishing industry. Boo k CAMP presented by Printed Word Reviews IPA BookCAMP NOMINATE a mover & shaker under the age of 40 to be recognized: Complete the form to nominate someone who deserves to be recognized for their work in the publishing industry. Nominate your favorite editorial assistant, editor, literary agent, publicist/ publicity, designer, digital marketing manager, social media, blogger, publisher, sales & marketing, special sales, finance, legal, etc. or yourself! We want to know the people making a difference. Each nominee will receive a recognition in the BookCAMP magazine, as well as by the publisher Ted Olczak. A recognition ceremony is planned for all nominees during BookCAMP 2026 (NO ENTRY FEE required for the ceremony.) In the past issue: BookCAMP: How does one go about finding a literary agent? What is a basic query letter? Can you tell me agents who are actively seeking manuscripts? Find out that and 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 BONUS MFA issue Issue Dates: February; May; August; and November. Print Trial Offer $12 for 3 months, then renewals at $30 annually Subscribe: $30 for 12 months, then renewals annually at $30 WHAT IS THE AGE REQUIREMENT FOR TOP 40 UNDER 40 CANDIDATES? To be eligible for consideration in the Top 40 Under 40 in Publishing - Class of 2026, nominees must be over the age of 18 and UNDER the age of 40 on Jan. 1, 2026. HOW DO I NOMINATE SOMEONE FOR TOP 40 UNDER 40? Nominations for the class of 2026 are open until April 1, 2026. You can enter a nomination here. You just need your nominee’s name, job title, phone number, e-mail address and a brief explanation of why you think they should be named to the Top 40 Under 40 in publishing. Then we send the nominee acceptance form directly to the nominee and get all the information we need from them. CAN I NOMINATE MORE THAN ONE PERSON? Yes. You can nominate as many people as you’d like— including yourself—and you can nominate colleagues, friends, family members or someone you know through their work in the publishing community. CAN I NOMINATE A GROUP OR A PAIR OF PEOPLE AS CO-NOMINEES? Yes. We know that many people’s success is as part of a team. That said, the intention of the Top 40 Under 40 is to recognize the outstanding work of people, so typically groups of two or three are the most likely to make it through our process. For example, two people who have started and run a business together, or a Editor-Publisher team that has really grown a company. All of the co-nominees must be over 18 and under 40 on Jan. 1, 2026 and must have a strong tie to publishing. To co-nominate people, fill out a nomination form for each individual. In order for each candidate to be eligible we must receive a separate form for each person. WILL THE NOMINEES BE TOLD WHO NOMINATED THEM? No, they remain anonymous. The nominees will only be told that they were nominated and that they need to fill out a second form, the nominee acceptance form, but we won’t tell them who nominated them (but feel free to tell them yourself if you’d like). WHAT MAKES SOMEONE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR TOP 40 UNDER 40? Top 40s are the best and brightest in publishing. They are uniquely different from one another but they are all high achievers. They include editors, designers, agents, marketing, publicity, digital/social media, etc. and more. They give back to the community and elevate publishing through their work, whether it be in their career or volunteer work. They inspire us through everything they do. DOES BEING NOMINATED MULTIPLE TIMES HELP MY NOMINEE? DOES IT SHOW THAT MANY PEOPLE WANTED THEM ON THE LIST? No. The judges look mainly at the nominee acceptance form that has been filled out by the nominees themselves. While you may want to ensure that your nominee was considered and nominated, it won’t make a difference. Nominee only get one notice of nomination. THE PERSON I WANT TO NOMINATE LIVES OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES. CAN I STILL NOMINATE THEM? Yes. All Top 40s will have a strong connection to publishing. They can live outside of the United States. WHY DO I HAVE TO COMPLETE A NOMINEE ACCEPTANCE FORM IF I WAS ALREADY NOMINATED? We have found that often the people who nominate someone for Top 40 don’t have enough information to give us a clear picture of who the nominees are and what they have accomplished. So, we go straight to the source and ask the nominees to tell us themselves what they’ve done. Your nomination is judged mainly on what you put in the nominee acceptance form — the information you provide and how clear it is. WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF I DON'T COMPLETE THE NOMINEE ACCEPTANCE FORM? If you have been nominated but you do not complete the nominee acceptance form you will not be eligible for the Top 40 Under 40 in publishing and your information will not be sent to our judges for consideration. HOW ARE THE TOP 40 SELECTED? From the nominations sent in, our editorial staff will create a short list of nominees who have demonstrated the highest levels of achievement, whether in their career or community work. We also look for well-rounded candidates who have achieved high levels in both career and volunteer work. The short list is sent to our BookCAMP judging panel. The panel goes through these nominations with a fine-toothed comb and debates the merits of the candidates, weighing their achievements until they find the Top 40 Under 40 for the year.

Editorial Services Sandra Wendel Editing for indie authors writing on business/leadership, self-help, true crime. Work with a seasoned editor who literally wrote the award-winning book: Cover to Cover: What First-Time Authors Need to Know about Editing. Sample edit, assessment and project pricing for the level of edit your book needs and deserves. Free ebook and more information on editorial services. Read More http://www.WriteOnInc.com Decades of experience Hugh Jackson “You have been such an amazing help … I am eternally grateful. This has made my work much more professional, and with such a swift reply to each piece of work” Read More http://www.jpsediting.com/ Years in the field: 8 Years freelancing: 8 Sharon Salonen CORE QUALIFICATIONS: Read More Years in the field: 25 Years freelancing: 5 Emily Ruth Mace My editorial philosophy is “words with care:” editing is a way of caring for both writers and their words. Read More https://emilyrmace.com Years in the field: 5 Years freelancing: 1 Pam Ozaroff I am an accomplished editor with decades of experience in academic, art, nonprofit, health, and educational publishing. Read More https://www.ozaroff-editing.com/ Years in the field: 41 Years freelancing: 32 Jennifer Elizabeth Scott Email: jenns.redpen@gmail.com Read More https://www.strategygrange.com/ Years in the field: 10 Years freelancing: 10 Philip D. Rich 10 Hazelwood Terrace Pittsfield, MA 01201-7218 US Read More Years in the field: 44 Years freelancing: 7 Laura Bronson Read More Frank Matej Cernik Readers should be just as unable to forget you as they are to put down your book. More to the point, they shouldn’t just be readers: they should be fans. They should grab your book by the title page and demand “Who wrote you?” I can help you with that. Read More https://frankcernik.com/ Years in the field: 7 Years freelancing: 7 Rhonda Franz Freelance editor and writer (yes, copy editor and copywriter) with an education specialty. Read More http://rhondafranz.com/ Years in the field: 11 Years freelancing: 12 Kelsey Holmes My services include Proofreading, Copy Editing, Line Editing, Developmental Editing, Manuscript Critique, Sensitivity Reading, Brainstorming, Research, and Free Beta Reading. I’m comfortable working with fiction, nonfiction, academic writing, professional websites, blogs, technical writing, and correspondence. I prefer Fantasy, Science Fiction, Speculative, and Nonfiction, but I’m not averse to working in other genres. Recent projects include self-help nonfiction, academic nonfiction, short stories, and flash fiction. Read More https://www.krakenediting.com/ Years in the field: 3 Years freelancing: 3 Pamela Frasier I am a detail-oriented and accomplished copy editor, proofreader, and writer with more than 17 years of experience enhancing written works, identifying mistakes, checking facts, and working closely with writers and teams to generate elite-level content. I have significant experience using Chicago, AP, and APA style guides. My work experience includes the following: Read More Years in the field: 21 Years freelancing: 4

< Back The Pits: Life Literally Bit Me in the Ass Cheryl Edwards Memoir, trauma, emotional distress, dog attack, healing Huber House Press LLC Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest The pacing is steady and maintains reader engagement, with detailed descriptions throughout. • The writing is descriptive, engaging, and emotionally charged, providing a detailed account of a traumatic experience. Cheryl Edwards's memoir, “The Pits: Life Literally Bit Me in the Ass,” is not for the faint of heart, yet it is utterly essential reading for anyone seeking an unflinching look at the aftermath of severe trauma. What begins as a terrifying, visceral account of a vicious attack by three pit bulls quickly evolves into a surprisingly witty and deeply honest exploration of physical survival, psychological breakdown, and the long, non-linear path to emotional reclamation. The narrative immediately begins with the trauma, detailing the intense pain and frantic struggle to escape her friend’s dogs. Edwards recounts the immediate aftermath: the desperate plea for help from neighbors, the whirlwind of the emergency room, and the initial treatments for life-altering injuries. This section alone serves as a harrowing lesson in survival, highlighting the sheer tenacity required to endure a devastating event. “The Pits” focuses on the recovery process, which dominates the book. Edwards is candid about the physical ordeal—the necessary but agonizing procedures, the reliance on her husband for simple daily tasks, and the slow, frustrating progress of physical therapy. She credits her pre-attack fitness with her survival, adding a layer of poignant irony to the physical setbacks she must now overcome. However, it is the emotional and psychological fallout that provides the memoir’s most profound insights. Edwards grapples with immense guilt and the societal pressure to assign blame, often feeling compelled to defend herself and the dogs' owner while silently wrestling with crushing anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her journey through therapy, specifically her experience with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), is rendered with thoughtful detail, offering readers a realistic glimpse into the hard work of trauma recovery. She expertly contrasts the woman she was—an adventurous dog-lover—with the person she becomes, a survivor forced to reconcile her deep connection with animals with an instinctual, paralyzing fear. Edwards's writing style is accessible, underpinned by a raw, Gen X sense of humor that acts as both a shield and a lifeline. This wit is crucial; it prevents the heavy subject matter from becoming unbearable, allowing moments of dark comedy to illuminate the absurdity of her new reality. Her honesty—about the anger, the resentment, and the exhaustion—is what makes this memoir stand out from more sanitized narratives of overcoming adversity. “The Pits” is a testament to the fact that healing is messy, imperfect, and non-conclusive. The author doesn't promise a return to "normal," but rather an acceptance of a "new normal." This book is highly recommended for anyone who has experienced trauma, for family and friends seeking to understand the inner lives of survivors, and for professionals in the trauma support field. Previous Next