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Have a great review to share? You can now submit a review to be considered for publication on our site. Submit a Book Review We welcome insightful and detailed book reviews. To ensure quality, reviews should be analytical, specific, and comprehensive. Plot summaries and promotional content are not accepted. Copyright and Publication: You retain full copyright of your work and are free to publish it elsewhere, provided it does not conflict with our usage rights while your review is featured on our site. By submitting, you confirm that you are the original author and legal copyright holder. Benefits of Contributing: A detailed author bio with links. Opportunities to receive books for review (subject to approval). Note: We are currently unable to offer monetary compensation for unsolicited book reviews. Stay Connected: Subscribe to our site for the latest news, features, competitions, and articles (located at the bottom of our site). Submission: Please send your reviews, articles, or book review requests to Ted@PrintedWordReviews.com . Please title subject line: PWR SUBMISSION. Thank you for your interest! Ted Olczak President & Publisher Printed Word Reviews / BookCAMP magazine Independent Press Award / NYC Big Book Award LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-olczak-64a1386/ BookCAMP 2025 is May 2-4, 2025 Register at www.ipaBookCamp.com Join us for the next competition: Fall 2025 NYC Big Book Award nycbigbookaward.com Spring 2026 Independent Press Award independentpressaward.com See our magazine on Overdrive via Libby (any local library), 32 global newsstand apps, at a special event. Mailing Address: Printed Word Reviews 63 Clinton Road Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 (973) 969-1899

< Back Loretta Goldberg Loretta Goldberg author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Saturday, June 28th, at 1pm Award-winning author Loretta Goldberg writes historical literary fiction with battle scenes. She loves this genre because she finds in history’s frames, where events have beginnings and endings, a magical mirror in which we can see ourselves more fully. She earned a BA (Hons.) in English, Music and History at the University of Melbourne, Australia. She came to the USA on a Fulbright scholarship for piano. Her CDs are in 700 libraries. After a financial planning career she returned to her first love, writing. Her debut novel The Reversible Mask: An Elizabethan Spy Novel (MadeGlobal Publishing) has won several awards. Her non-fiction articles include Tudor history, financial planning, arts reviews and political satire. Chair of HNS-NY Chapter, she also belongs to the Authors Guild and NLAPW. A people and animal lover, she enjoys traveling, hiking, swimming and taking terrible photographs. Beyond the Bukubuk Tree: A World War II Novel of Love and Loss. New Guinea, 1941. Heroism, sacrifice and ultimately, hope, transcend the horror of war. Two men preparing for war, both with secrets they are determined to keep. Jake Friedman, an idealistic young Jewish doctor from Melbourne, is haunted by the death of a colleague he thinks he caused. Alex Whipple, a Catholic known as Wip, is a soul- scarred veteran of the First World War, an idealist who fights bullies on behalf of their victims yet has a chequered past in the wild side of post-war Paris that he is determined to forget. Both are posted to Lark Force, a lone and under-resourced battalion defending the port town of Rabaul. When the Japanese invade Rabaul, their battalion is abandoned by the Australian government. Improvising a jungle retreat, fighting rain, insects, disease, and vengeful Japanese pursuers, Jake will face the ultimate trials of his courage as Wip struggles to find the will to live. Many reviewers find the novel riveting, unforgettable and a war novel like no other, while The Midwest Book Review recommends it to libraries with World War II collections. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Kellie Kaminskas "Here With You": A Tender Guide Through Children's Grief, Awarded NYC Big Book Honor Connecticut author Kellie Kaminskas has been honored with the 2024 NYC Big Book Award in the Children's-Death and Dying category for her book, "Here With You." Kaminskas, a graduate of UMASS Amherst UWW with a BA in Creative Writing and English Literature, has crafted a narrative that resonates deeply with readers of all ages, drawing inspiration from her own experiences as a mother. "Here With You" tackles the sensitive topic of grief with a heartfelt and relatable approach, offering solace and understanding to young readers facing loss. Kaminskas' writing reflects her dedication to creating stories that connect with the emotional landscape of her audience, a quality that has earned her this prestigious award. Kaminskas credits her late mother as her greatest inspiration, citing her eight-year battle with cancer as a testament to unwavering strength. "She was the strongest person I ever knew," Kaminskas shares, "and her strength pushed me to conquer every battle thrown my way." This personal connection to loss undoubtedly informs the authenticity and empathy found in "Here With You." She also draws inspiration from the lyrical and boundary-pushing songwriting of Taylor Swift, whose work encourages her to explore creative expression beyond conventional norms. Kaminskas expresses profound gratitude to her son, Preston, who inspires her daily, her supportive boyfriend, Marc, who encouraged her perseverance, and her family, who provided unwavering support. Ultimately, Kaminskas encapsulates her writing's essence in a single word: "Healing." Her work aims to provide comfort and understanding during difficult times, a mission beautifully realized in "Here With You." Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Nothing is FREE...Actually it is! GOOD UNTIL May 12, 2025: Get a Free Issue ($20 Value) & Chance to win $100 advertising credit or a BookCAMP Day Pass No Strings Attached 1 No Strings Attached Are you an Awards Dinner OR a BookCAMP 2025 attendee? See your offers here: https://www.independentpressaward.com/offerings 2 No Strings Attached Enter to win $100 advertising credit or a FREE DAY pass to Day One of BookCAMP, https://www.ipabookcamp.com/ or discounted three day pass (passes are nontransferable). Let's Get Started First Name Last Name Email Any Message Sign Me Up Thanks for submitting!

< Back A Global Hub for the Future of Storytelling London Book Fair 2025: A Global Hub for the Future of Storytelling The London Book Fair, a cornerstone event in the global publishing calendar, stands as a vibrant literary marketplace in which all our industry helps decide where the future of storytelling takes shape. An industry trade show, the London Book Fair is a dynamic hub for rights negotiation, content sales, and distribution across the diverse landscape of print, audio, television, film, and digital channels. This annual gathering draws publishers, literary agents, authors, and a spectrum of industry professionals from around the world, all converging to shape the narratives that captivate audiences worldwide. At the heart of the London Book Fair lies a trifecta of focus areas: rights trading, networking, and staying abreast of the ever-evolving industry trends. It's a space where deals are struck, partnerships forged, and insights shared, ensuring that the literary world remains agile and responsive to the demands of a global audience. Printed Word Reviews took the time to sit in sessions, meet with agents and vendors, talk to those specializing in author promotion and book review distribution, and how authors plan to amplify their reach and impact. Industry engagement is crucial. Attending seminars and panels allowed Printed Word Reviews to stay informed about the latest trends in publishing and digital media. The 'Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing' panel at Tech Theatre on March 11th provided invaluable insights into the evolving digital landscape, focusing on platforms like Substack, TikTok, and Discord. In an era of increasing digital tools, the session emphasized the importance of writers' self-promotion. Led by industry experts, the discussion explored how writers can leverage digital platforms and refine strategies to build sustainable and authentic audiences. In an exclusive interview with Xue Mo, PWR’s publisher Ted Olczak discussed the transformative power of love and wisdom, the importance of cultural reflections, and the hope that can emerge from darkness that are so prevalent in Xue mo’s works. He emphasizes the role of knowledge and writing in creating a balanced world and inspiring change. "Growing Your Readership and Marketing Your Genre" session sponsored by Kindle Direct Publishing was a popular session, not a seat to be had. Moderated by Jen Barrett, this Author HQ session featured a diverse panel of successful self-published authors—JM Dalgliesh (crime), Sadie Kincaid (contemporary dark romance), and JD Kirk (crime/alter ego of Barry Hutchison, also children's fiction). The discussion centered on effective strategies for authors to reach their target audiences, given the myriad marketing options available, from social media platforms like Facebook and BookTok to traditional methods like reader newsletters and Amazon Ads. In addition to the sessions, networking and partnerships are paramount. By connecting with publishers and literary agents, attendees expand their network, discover emerging authors, and build collaborative relationships with other literary platforms and media outlets. These connections are vital for identifying the next wave of literary talent and ensuring their platform remains at the forefront of book discovery. The London Book Fair is crucial for those seeking a global marketplace for rights, professional networking, business development, and industry insights. Thousands attend each year to strengthen industry connections, promote services, and solidify their place in the literary world, contributing to the vibrant landscape of global storytelling. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Rescuing Ethan and Gabe: The Power of One Stable Committed Relationship Erik H. Marks Novel Burnstown Publishing House Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest The Enduring Echo of Mentorship: A Novel of Grief, Trauma, and Healing SPOILER ALERT: "Rescuing Ethan and Gabe: The Power of One Stable Committed Relationship" by Erik H. Marks delves into the complex emotional landscape of grief, mentorship, and the lasting impact of trauma, offering a reflective and deeply moving narrative. Set against the backdrop of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and the serene landscapes of Camp Besheret in Nova Scotia, the story spans two decades, from the summer of 2000 to the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. It's a story about personal growth, the profound bonds forged through shared experiences, and the enduring power of human connection. The narrative centers on Scott, a 26-year-old assistant director at Camp Besheret, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he forms a close connection with Ethan, a troubled 15-year-old camper. Ethan's frequent brushes with authority and his difficult home life create a space for Scott to step into a mentoring role, becoming a confidant and guiding presence. As their relationship deepens, Scott learns about Ethan's traumatic past, including abuse at the hands of a former coach, a revelation that profoundly affects Scott and shapes his future aspirations. Events shift to 2018, where Scott, now working as an accountant for Winnipeg Child and Family Services, is tasked with chaperoning a camping trip for Indigenous children in foster care. Here, he encounters Gabriel, a neglected 12-year-old boy, and the echoes of his past with Ethan resonate strongly. As Scott's bond with Gabriel grows, he navigates the familiar challenges of mentoring a child with a troubled background. The story delves into Scott's internal struggles, his unwavering commitment to helping children like Ethan and Gabriel, and the emotional toll it takes on him. We witness his quiet dedication, the weight of his responsibility, and the quiet strength he draws from his experiences. The story reaches its poignant resolution during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Scott receives devastating news: Ethan appears to have died from a drug overdose. This tragic event spurs Scott into action, fearing a similar fate for Gabriel. He embarks on a search for the boy, eventually finding him living in squalor. Through persistence, genuine concern, and the unwavering belief in Gabriel's potential, Scott helps the boy recognize the need for change, offering him a lifeline in a world that has offered him little else. The final, heartbreaking turn is with Scott's own death from COVID-19. His passing leaves a profound void, but it also leaves an enduring legacy. Gabriel, along with the narrator, are left to grapple with their grief, but they also carry the torch of Scott's mentorship. They decide to honor his memory by embarking on a journey together, a testament to the lasting impact of Scott's presence in their lives. This novel explores powerful themes of grief and loss, the transformative power of mentorship, the long-lasting effects of trauma and the arduous path to healing, and the profound nature of personal growth. Scott's character arc is central to the narrative, showcasing his evolution from a camp assistant director to a dedicated advocate for vulnerable children. Ethan and Gabriel, each in their own way, represent the challenges faced by youth grappling with trauma and the potential for positive change through meaningful connection. "Rescuing Ethan and Gabe: The Power of One Stable Committed Relationship" by Erik H. Marks is a testament to the importance of empathy, resilience, and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others. Through its nuanced exploration of complex emotional landscapes and the enduring bonds forged through shared experiences, it offers a compelling and thought-provoking read, leaving a lingering impression long after the final page is turned. Previous Next

< Back Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village Roberta Samuels Mystery / Detective Red Penguin Books Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a tale that intertwines the lives of an avant-garde artist fleeing the Nazis in 1944 and an American woman renovating a historic townhouse in modern France, both women find inspiration and resilience through art and community amidst the challenges of their respective eras. A compelling dual narrative, interweaves the struggles and triumphs of two women separated by time but connected by art and the enduring spirit of resilience. Set against the contrasting backdrops of wartime France and modern-day Montpezat de Quercy, the novel explores the power of creativity to transcend even the most challenging circumstances. The narrative alternates between Sonia Delaunay's experiences in 1944 and Barbara Waldheim's life in 2014. Sonia's story, fraught with the dangers of Nazi occupation and the loss of her husband, captures the tension and fear of wartime France. The author portrays the camaraderie among the artists hiding at the chateau in Grisolles, showcasing their determination to continue creating amidst the chaos. Sonia's artistic spirit, even in the face of unimaginable hardship, resonates. In the contemporary timeline, Barbara, an American expatriate, seeks her own fresh start in France. Her journey of renovating a 15th-century townhouse and integrating into the local community provides a counterpoint to Sonia's wartime struggles. While Barbara's challenges are different, they are no less significant. The author effectively portrays her growing connection to the village, her friendships with Laure and Pierre-Paul, and the deepening of her relationship with Sam. The discovery of the hidden basement and the missing Sonia Delaunay stained-glass window acts as a catalyst, bridging the two narratives and propelling the plot forward. The quest to authenticate and restore the window becomes a central focus, drawing Barbara and Sam into a fascinating historical mystery. The involvement of local authorities and the Ministry of Culture adds intrigue to the story. The conclusion, with the installation of the restored window in the village church and Barbara and Sam's recognition with the Légion d'honneur, provides a satisfying sense of closure. It's a testament to the enduring power of art and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The novel ends on a note of hope, suggesting that even in the face of adversity, creativity and community can flourish. "Missing, A Modern Art Masterpiece in a French Medieval Village" is for those readers who appreciate historical fiction with a strong connection to art and culture. It's a story that celebrates resilience, the power of human connection, and the enduring legacy of artistic expression. Previous Next

< Back The Dancing Darlings "The Dancing Darlings" Honored at Independent Press Awards: A Psychologist's Journey to Children's Literature Dr. Angela Kyparissis, a clinical and forensic psychologist specializing in social behavior, has been recognized at the 2025 Independent Press Awards for her children's book, "The Dancing Darlings." This delightful picture book, honored in the Picture Books-All Ages category, represents a unique transition for Dr. Kyparissis, who has translated her understanding of human behavior into heartwarming stories for young readers. Dr. Kyparissis's journey to children's literature stems from her professional experiences. Witnessing firsthand the impact of childhood experiences on adult lives, she recognized the crucial role of positive early narratives. The birth of her own children further solidified this understanding, inspiring her to create bedtime stories filled with vibrant imagery and meaningful messages. "My children...changed my perspective on what is important in life," she explains, "and they inspired me to write my book." These stories, initially created for her own children, evolved into "The Dancing Darlings," a book aimed at fostering healthy mental and emotional development in young minds. Dr. Kyparissis finds inspiration in diverse figures. George R.R. Martin's world-building prowess and Giannis Antetokounmpo's humility resonate with her. She also expresses deep gratitude to her children, parents, and husband for their unwavering support. "Fun and colorful stories for children aimed at helping their mental and emotional development," encapsulates her writing's purpose. In addition to her writing, Dr. Kyparissis founded Livres Agapé Books in 2023. Initially a platform for her own work, the independent publishing house has expanded to support other authors, offering a space for passionate storytellers to share their voices. With a promising lineup for 2025, Livres Agapé Books is poised to make a significant contribution to the literary landscape. "The Dancing Darlings" is a testament to the power of storytelling to nurture and inspire, a message that resonates deeply with Dr. Kyparissis's work. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Michele Kwasniewski Michele Kwasniewski author signing at ALA, Table 1652, on Friday, June 27th, at 6pm Award-winning author Michele Kwasniewski, author of YA fiction series, “The Rise and Fall of Dani Truehart” After graduating from Loyola Marymount University with a BA in Technical Theater, Michele Kwasniewski spent over fifteen years in film and television production. Starting out as a film set assistant on movies such as INDEPENDENCE DAY, FACE/OFF, PRIMAL FEAR, and EVITA, Michele eventually switched to the small screen and worked her way up the ladder to production manager, gaining experience on television shows such as BIG BROTHER, ADOPTION STORIES, EXTRA YARDAGE and MEET THE PANDAS. She is also a proud member of the Producers Guild of America. Michele’s colorful experiences in the industry inspired her to write THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series. Michele lives in San Clemente, California with her husband, their son, and their disobedient dachshund. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Unrivaled: Sewanee 1899 "Unrivaled: Sewanee 1899" Wins Independent Press Award, Celebrating a Legendary Sports Feat Norman Jetmundsen, Jr. and Karin Dupree Fecteau's "Unrivaled: Sewanee 1899" has been honored with the 2025 Independent Press Award in the Coffee-table Book category, celebrating an extraordinary chapter in American sports history. The book, a visually stunning tribute, stemmed from the pair's award-winning documentary of the same name. Jetmundsen, alongside David Crews, produced and directed the film, which chronicled the incredible 1899 Sewanee Tigers football season. This small college team achieved the impossible, winning five games in six days while traversing 2,500 miles by train, a feat that stands as one of the greatest in sports history. The documentary, aired nationwide and nominated for a Regional Emmy, captured the imagination of audiences across the country. Realizing the wealth of original paintings, historical data, and research amassed during the film's production, Jetmundsen sought to immortalize the story in book form. Collaborating with graphic artist Karin Fecteau, they created "Unrivaled: Sewanee 1899," a beautifully crafted coffee-table book published under their own Shakerag Hollow Press imprint. Jetmundsen credits numerous individuals for their influence, including his parents Ruth and Norman , a professor Douglas Paschall , Episcopal priests, his wife Kelli, and literary giants like Shakespeare and C.S. Lewis. He expresses particular gratitude to Fecteau, his wife, and the many who contributed to both the film and the book. "Don't write so that someone might possibly understand what you mean. Write so that no one can possibly misunderstand what you mean," a lesson from his professor Douglas Paschall, guided his writing. Jetmundsen acknowledges the challenges of self-publishing and expresses immense gratitude for the book's recognition, a testament to the team's dedication and passion. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back New Wine: A Journey into refueling your life in the spirit Dr. Susan Agbenoto Christian Christian Faith Publishing Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest In a compelling call for spiritual revival, this transformative narrative invites readers to embrace a deeper relationship with God, shedding past traditions to experience the new wine of the Holy Spirit and ignite a lifelong journey of faith. Readers will learn about the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, the importance of personal and corporate revival, and the steps to achieving a closer walk with God. The book draws on biblical passages, historical revivals, and personal anecdotes to illustrate its points, making it accessible and engaging for a broad audience. The narrative explores spiritual restlessness, using Moses and the burning bush as an example. It encourages readers to move beyond past traditions to new levels of worship. The story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman is used to highlight the importance of worshiping in spirit and truth. The text transitions to making a leap of faith, outlining steps to salvation and the journey of spiritual growth. It stresses the continuous pursuit of God and openness to new revelations, encouraging readers to embrace their spiritual journey fully. The book delves into Jesus' "I Am" statements, each revealing aspects of His divine nature. This section discusses pressing into a deeper relationship with God, using the parable of new wine and old wineskins to illustrate the need for spiritual renewal. This book is ideal for Christians seeking to deepen their faith and experience spiritual renewal as well as Church leaders and members involved in revival movements. 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