Friday, June 20, 2025

Science Fiction Spotlight: The Forever Factor by Tom Hogan and Amanda Iles

I love finding interesting new books to share! This morning, I am featuring science fiction novel in our book spotlight! Learn about The Forever Factor by Tom Hogan and Amanda Iles and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.


 

Book Title:  THE FOREVER FACTOR: A SILICON VALLEY novel by Tom Hogan and Amanda Iles
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+), 410 pages
Genre:  genetic engineering science fiction, medial thrillers, hard science fiction
Publisher:  Laughing Dog Publishing LLC
Release date:  March 5, 2025
Content Rating:  R for language

"You want to get a realistic view on how breakthrough technologies emerge from Silicon Valley? Hogan and Isles, with deft dramatic style, put you right there with characters who remind me of those I worked alongside over the past 40 years. Brilliant, yes; imperfect, unquestionably; conflicted, sometimes; ambitious, you bet. Well worth your time." -- 5-Star Review on Amazon

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About the Book


Silicon Valley’s relentless pursuit of innovation collides with the profound quest for longevity in this thrilling new novel.

When visionary inventor Petra Alexander stumbles upon a groundbreaking discovery that could radically extend the human lifespan, she’s catapulted into the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley startups. Armed with ambition and a deeply personal drive, Petra must navigate the cutthroat corridors of tech giants, venture capitalists, and biohackers—as well as threats from powerful forces dead set against the transformative technology she’s developing.

Funded by “The Hydras,” an elite group of tech moguls dedicated to biohacking and longevity, Petra pushes the boundaries of science, spurred by her quest to find a cure for the rapid-aging disease that killed her sister and now threatens her mother. Reluctantly assuming the mantle of biotech CEO, she faces impossible choices: Who will control access to a life-saving breakthrough? What sacrifices will she make in the name of progress? And how far is she willing to go when her own life is at risk?

Packed with gripping suspense and nuanced ethical dilemmas, The Forever Factor offers a rare glimpse into the startup culture that shapes our world. From clandestine yacht gatherings to high-stakes negotiations in Silicon Valley boardrooms, the novel intertwines scientific breakthroughs, corporate intrigue, and human drama in a narrative that will leave you questioning the very nature of life, mortality, and innovation.

Fans of Michael Crichton’s techno-thrillers and Blake Crouch’s speculative fiction will find themselves captivated by this smart, fast-paced tale that dares to ask: Should anyone be allowed to master immortality—or does the pursuit threaten the very future of humanity?
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Meet the Authors
 
Amanda Iles: Amanda Iles is a writer who creates prose on behalf of Silicon Valley executives and companies, from Steve Jobs to the latest hot startups. Before writing professionally, she earned a biology/philosophy degree and worked in a developmental neurobiology lab at UC San Diego, followed by a graduate degree from the prestigious UC Santa Cruz science writing program.


Tom Hogan: Tom Hogan is an author and screenwriter based in Austin, TX. Left for Alive is his first novel. He is also the screenwriter for The Devil’s Breath, a noir thriller set in Auschwitz. It was a finalist at the Napa Valley Film Festival and semi-finalist at the Austin Film Festival.

Tom’s past writing experience has been on the non-fiction side. He is the co-author (with Carol Broadbent) of The Ultimate Startup Guide: Marketing Lessons, War Stories, and Hard-Won Advice from Leading Venture Capitalists and Angel Investors. The book highlights the lessons Tom and Carol learned as principals at Crowded Ocean, a marketing firm that has launched over 50 Silicon Valley startups. He has also written extensively for travel books, political journals, and Newsweek. 

Professionally, Tom has split his career between academia and technology marketing. He was a lecturer in Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Santa Clara University and UC Santa Cruz. He joined Silicon Valley in its infancy, where he was the original creative director at Oracle. Moving into the VC (Venture Capital) world, he was a co-founder of Crowded Ocean and now advises startups in Silicon Valley and Austin.

connect with the author:  website facebook instagram goodreads
 

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THE FOREVER FACTOR by Tom Hogan and Amanda Iles Book Tour Giveaway  




Historical Fiction Spotlight: The Weight of Loyalty by Mike H. Mizrahi

Today, I have a historical fiction novel to share! Learn about The Weight of Loyalty and author Mike H. Mizrahi! 

 

Historical Fiction

Date Published: May 25, 2025

 


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About the Book

“My long-term survival is doubtful under any scenario. Yet, I already defied the impossible by escaping from a watery tomb and swimming to this very spot. But luck is finite—it always peters out.” 

 

As the island of Kefalonia falls under the harsh occupation of Italian soldiers in 1941, British sailor Oliver Graham washes ashore, desperate to evade capture. Rescued by the fierce and determined Natalía Giannatos, he becomes entangled in a web of love, loyalty, and betrayal. 

 

With her brother and fiancé lost to the conflict, Natalía is driven by vengeance against the occupiers and a deepening bond with Oliver. But when an Italian colonel fixates on her, she must navigate a dangerous game of deception to protect her family and village. As Oliver struggles with his hidden heritage and his growing feelings for Natalía, they are thrust into the heart of the resistance, where every choice could lead to freedom or devastation. 

 

In a story that intertwines love and sacrifice against the backdrop of war, The Weight of Loyalty explores the resilience of the human spirit and the lengths one will go to for love. Will Oliver and Natalía’s connection survive the trials of conflict, or will the brutal realities of war tear them apart forever?

 

About the Author

 

 Mike H. Mizrahi and his wife, Karen, reside in Poulsbo, WA. He is a winner of the (indie Reader Discovery Award and a Laramie Finalist in the Chanticleer Book Awards. His other historical novels include The Unnamed Girl, Tattered Coat, and the Great Chattanooga Bicycle Race.


Connect with the Author

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Children's Book Spotlight: Grandma's Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole

This morning, I have a children's book in our book blitz spotlight! Learn about Grandma's Bucket of Mercy and author Robin Carole! 


Children's Book

Date Published: May 28, 2025

Publisher: ‎MindStir Media


 

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About the Book

📘 Book Description for Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy by Robin Carole

You are never too old or too young to learn life’s lessons.

 

From multiple award-winning author Robin Carole comes a heartwarming true story that celebrates the power of love, forgiveness, and generational wisdom. Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy is a touching tale of one young girl’s summer with her grandmother in 1960s California—and the quiet but profound lesson that would change two lives forever.

 

Ten-year-old Carole is sent on a mysterious errand involving her grandmother’s elderly neighbor, not knowing her grandmother is teaching her about the gift of mercy. Years later, Carole finally understands the full impact of that experience when a stranger shares how her small, anonymous acts of kindness transformed a life.

 

Beautifully written and deeply personal, this story is a tribute to the grit and grace of the women who survived the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression and to the enduring strength of intergenerational bonds. Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy is perfect for readers aged 9–12—and for the childlike spirit in every adult who believes in the quiet power of compassion.

 

✅ True story based on real-life events
✅ Uplifting themes of family, kindness, and legacy
✅ Ideal for ages 9–12 and meaningful for all ages

🪣 Sometimes the smallest gesture can change everything.

 

About the Author

Robin Carole is a multiple award-winning author and lifelong storyteller dedicated to preserving the legacy of the strong women in her family. A native Californian who grew up in the scenic wine country, Robin spent over 40 years in Deaf Education as a Certified Sign Language Interpreter, working with students from kindergarten through adult education. 

 

Now retired and living in Spokane, Washington, Robin draws from real-life experiences and the stories passed down from her grandmother, mother, and aunts to write books that speak to the hearts of readers young and old. Her passion for storytelling began as a child, sitting at the feet of her family matriarchs, listening to tales of resilience, faith, and enduring love. 

 

Her latest book, Grandma’s Bucket of Mercy, is a heartfelt tribute to the power of quiet acts of compassion—and a reminder that even children can change the world through kindness. Through her writing, Robin invites readers to revisit a time when life was simple, values were taught through action, and lessons of mercy could last a lifetime. 


“My education, my work, my goals, and accomplishments are here for only a moment, but my family is a lifetime.” —Robin Carole 


Fun Facts About Robin: 

  • Her favorite meal is a classic Southern tomato sandwich 
  • She loves gardening, even if it mostly means pulling weeds 
  • Oldies music, storytelling, and pets bring her the most joy 
  • She still believes in the power of sitting together and sharing stories 

 📚 Explore Robin’s books and discover stories that stay with you—because the lessons we learn from our grandmothers are often the ones we never forget.


Connect with the Author

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Instagram


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Thursday, June 19, 2025

Historical Romance Spotlight: Cracks Beneath the Surface by Laura McCrum

I love historical fiction--and today, I have a historical romance that offers a fictionalized look at a real-life love story. Learn about the first book from Titanic Tales of Love and Loss, Cracks Beneath the Surface and author Laura McCrum in this book spotlight!

 

Titanic Tales of Love and Loss, Book 1


Historical Romance, Historical Fiction

Date Published: May 28, 2025



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About the Book


Love. Scandal. Tragedy.

 

When Maddy weds the wealthy and influential John Jacob Astor IV, she believes she is stepping into a life of privilege, passion, and promise. But beneath the dazzling façade of high society, whispers of scandal, resentment, and betrayal threaten to pull her under. Shunned by New York’s elite for marrying a man nearly three decades her senior, Madeleine soon realizes that love in the gilded age comes at a price.


As the Astors embark on their homeward voyage aboard the RMS Titanic, fate sets a course neither could have foreseen. Amid the grandeur of the world’s most luxurious ship, tensions rise, secrets unravel, and the ocean stretches endlessly before them—along with the chasm widening in their marriage.


But when disaster strikes, will love, wealth, or power matter in the face of the unthinkable? And when the ice cracks beneath them, will the Astors’ love survive—if they do?

 

Cracks Beneath the Surface is a sweeping historical romance woven with heartbreak, resilience, and the echoes of a love tested by time, fortune, and fate.

 

Are you ready to set sail on a journey of passion, peril, and the power of a love that dared to defy the tides of time? Get your copy today and discover the story behind the headlines.

 

About the Author


Laura McCrum is a Scottish author and former business and education professional whose passion for storytelling has found its voice in both historical fiction and self-help. Cracks Beneath the Surface is her debut historical romance novel and the first in the Titanic: Tales of Love and Loss series—a compelling exploration of human connection, courage, and social class aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Drawing on meticulous research and a love for character-driven narrative, Laura brings real historical figures to life alongside unforgettable fictional characters.

While her Titanic series is published under her real name, Laura also writes empowering self-help books under the pen name Lamont, including Healing the Rift with Your Adult Child and The Blended Family Guide, which support readers through complex personal relationships.


The second book in her Titanic series, The Last Line, follows First Officer William Murdoch and delves deeper into the lives of both crew and passengers during the ship’s final days.


Laura’s writing bridges the emotional power of fiction with the insight and compassion of her self-help work—offering readers both escapism and emotional resonance. Visit Lauran on her website at www.lmcpublications.com


Connect with the Author

Website

BookBuzz



Buy the Book

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Self Help Study Hacks Spotlight: The A+ Student Blueprint by Zohaib Khan

This morning,  I have a self-help book for students in our book blitz spotlight! Learn about The A+ Student Blueprint by Zohaib Khan! 

 


Self Help, Study Skills, Study Hacks

Date Published: June 13, 2025


 

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About the Book


Unlock your potential with The A+ Student Blueprint: Study Hacks, Brain Training, and Mindset Secrets for Academic Success by Zohaib Khan—a game-changer for students aiming to boost grades without burnout. Ideal for high school, college, and lifelong learners, this isn’t just a study guide; it’s a proven roadmap to master learning and achieve top grades.

Why This Book Stands Out

Unlike generic guides, The A+ Student Blueprint blends cognitive science, neuroscience, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to transform how you learn. Struggling with focus, retention, or procrastination? This book offers science-backed strategies to study smarter, not harder, helping you excel in any subject.

What You’ll Discover

* StiC Method: Use Spaced Repetition, Testing, Interleaving, and Categorizing to retain info and ace exams.
* FAST Method: Speed learning with Forget, Act, State Management, and Teach techniques.
* Time Management: Master Pomodoro, Kanban Boards, and Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks.
* Memory Hacks: Use doodling, mnemonics, and Leitner System to memorize effortlessly.
* Mindset Shift: Rewire beliefs with NLP’s Godiva Pattern to make studying fun.
* Procrastination Busters: Beat delays with Eat That Frog and habits from Atomic Habits.

Real Results, Real Stories

Follow Jack’s journey in case studies as he masters vectors, quadratic equations, and biology tests using these techniques. Step-by-step examples show how to apply strategies to real subjects, making learning achievable.

Why Students, Parents, and Educators Love It

* Flexible: Tailor strategies to your Visual, Auditory, Kinesthetic, Olfactory, or Gustatory style.
* Actionable: “Try This Now” sections help you start immediately.
* Lifelong Skills: Learn how to learn anything, anytime, anywhere.
* Inspirational: Shift from “I can’t” to “I’ve got this” with mindset hacks used by Serena Williams and Tony Robbins.

Who Is This For?

* Students: High school and college learners seeking better grades.
* Parents: Equip your child to excel and build confidence.
* Educators: Discover strategies to inspire students.

Your Journey Starts Here

With The A+ Student Blueprint, you’re building a toolkit for success. Start with one technique today—color-coding or Pomodoro—and watch grades soar. Backed by research and student stories, this is your shortcut to A+ status.

Join the A+ Movement Today!!


Connect with the Author

Author Website

Instagram

Facebook

Tiktok

 
Buy the Book

Amazon



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Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Contemporary Romance PreOrder Blitz: Innocent & Sweet by Megan Slayer

This morning, we are joining the pre-order blitz for Innocent & Sweet by Megan Slayer! Check out this contemporary romance and learn about the author! 

 

Contemporary New Adult Romance

Date Published: June 20, 2025

 

 

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About the Book

Anissa Dunn wants one man -- Kameron. He’s got looks, brains and a boatload of attitude… and all that muscle. A girl can only take so much, and he's her heart's desire. She’s not afraid to give as good as she gets and she wants him to be her teacher in all things carnal.

There's only one catch -- he's her bodyguard and the rules state she can't date the staff.

But rules are meant to be broken…

 

 

About the Author

 

Megan Slayer, aka Wendi Zwaduk, is a multi-published, award-winning author of more than one-hundred short stories and novels. She’s been writing since 2008 and published since 2009. Her stories range from the contemporary and paranormal to LGBTQ and white hot themes. No matter what the length, her works are always hot, but with a lot of heart. She enjoys giving her characters a second chance at love, no matter what the form. She’s been nominated at the LRC for Best Author, Best Contemporary, Best Ménage, Best BDSM and Best Anthology. Her books have made it to the bestseller lists on various e-tailer sites. 

 

When she’s not writing, Megan spends time with her husband and son as well as three dogs and three cats. She enjoys art, music and racing, but football is her sport of choice. She’s an active member of the Friends of the Keystone-LaGrange Public library. 

 

Connect with the Author & Publisher

Author on Twitter

Author on Instagram

 

Publisher on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok: @changelingpress

Save 15% off any order at ChangelingPress.com with code RABT15

 


Buy the Book
 

Buy the Roosters series!

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Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Self-Help Feature: Crossing Fifty-One by Debbie Russell

Today, I am sharing a self-help book that explores grief and healing--and parenting an dysfunctional family dynamics. Take a few minutes and learn about Crossing Fifty-One and author Debbie Russell and remember to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post! 



Death & Grief, Parenting, Self-Help

Date Published: 06-20-2023

Publisher: Koehler Books


 

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About the Book

 

A week before Christmas 1951, Dr. Ralph Russell risked everything to voluntarily enter a locked federal drug-treatment facility known as a "narcotic farm."

 

Sixty-five years later, Dr. Russell's granddaughter Debbie suffers a debilitating crisis of identity when her father (Dr. Russell's oldest son), always her biggest fan, is accepted into hospice.

 

Debbie's investigation into her paternal lineage reveals family secrets and ignites her mother's volatile outbursts, propelling her into therapy.

 

When therapy fails her, the grandfather Debbie never knew saves her, and she collaborates with her dying father one last time to make her biggest dream come true.

 

Crossing Fifty-One pulls back the curtain on the internal struggles of midlife and provides a blueprint for redefining one's self beyond the constraints of addiction and dysfunctional family dynamics.



About the Author 

Debbie Russell is a lawyer-turned writer. She spent twenty-five years as an Assistant County Attorney in Minneapolis, prosecuting numerous high-profile cases—specializing in those involving domestic and child abuse. At age fifty-five, Debbie took early retirement, giving up a full pension for the freedom of time. She now spends that precious time writing, restoring her property to native prairie and wetlands, and training her rambunctious retrievers.

 

Debbie’s first published article appeared in the Minneapolis Star Tribune in 2001. After that small triumph, her writing focused primarily on legal briefs and memoranda, which were consigned to district court files. Debbie resumed creative writing in 2014 when she began her storytelling blog by sharing personal stories and professional experiences that touched her life in a significant way. Her top-ranked December 2021 article for Elephant Journal, an online journal that celebrates the mindful life is entitled “Getting the Most out of Therapy: Easier Said than Done,” and is partially based on events in her book.

 

Debbie's award-winning book, Crossing Fifty-One: Not Quite a Memoir, was released in June of 2023. In 2024, she became a regular contributor to the Minnesota Star Tribune, writing about criminal justice and adjacent issues.


Connect with the Author

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Twitter

Blog

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Buy the Book

https://mybook.to/CrossingFiftyOneBook

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