Back on Track

New reviews coming soon! I'll be importing my work from the past two years, but in the meantime,
I'm reclaiming my small place on the web.

Thursday, April 21, 2005

Non-Fiction Review

Book Marketing from A - Z
by Francine Silverman
ISBN-10: 0741424312
Review by Heather Froeschl


Any author who even hopes to make it in the publishing world today is going to have to market their wares. It doesn't matter if you self-publish, go subsidy, POD or with a traditional house, you are going to have to sell your book. The writing is the easiest part; getting people to buy your book is where the real work begins. There are many guides to help you in this endeavor but "Book Marketing from A-Z" is one of the most comprehensive books I have found.


More than 300 authors share what has and hasn't worked for them. Aside from having a top-notch agent to help you, getting the skinny from been-there-done-that authors is the next best thing. Silverman addresses nearly every topic you could imagine when it comes to marketing books. From A - Advertising to Z - Zero Promotion and everything in between, you will hear the down and dirty on book tours, getting into brick and mortar stores, postcards and bookmarks, newsletters, webpages, radio spots and so much more.

Authors willingly share their horror stories and their successes. Learn from their mistakes and progress. If you don't come away from this book with some new ideas for promoting your work then you need to reread it. You will likely do so anyway as Silverman's book will become a trusted guide to keep in your resource library. This easy to navigate, hard to put down book will undoubtedly help thousands of authors to create a bigger and better plan for themselves.

Friday, April 15, 2005

Children's Picture Book Review

My Angel ABCs
by Zsuzsana Summer
ISBN-10: 1933037466
Review by Heather Froeschl

This delightful children's title is really so much more than your typical ABC book. Surround your children with love and support by introducing them to the angels that are watching over all of us. This precious book will quickly become a cuddle up and read to me favorite.

From A - the Angel of Art who inspires and celebrates creativity, all the way to Z - The Angel of Zzzzzzz's who watches over you as you sleep, each letter of the alphabet is represented by an angel with special meaning and talent. Children will thrill in the knowledge that angels watch them as they show caring, stand for justice, and demonstrate love for their family. It is a soothing thought to think of angels helping us to smile, laugh and forget our sorrows.

"My Angel ABCs" is a special book that will insight morals in children in a gentle and subtle manner. It is a book that calms the mind and soothes the soul while opening the imagination to the presence of spiritual beings that watch over us. For young readers and for reading along with parents and grandparents, at bedtime or just quiet time, it is safe to say that Zsuzsana Summer and illustrator Lauren Dingus have a created something truly special. I highly recommend this book to every one who loves a child.

Thursday, April 14, 2005

Science Fiction Review

The Sentient Advantage
by Chris Pugmire
ISBN-10: 1595261400
review by Heather Froeschl

Having grown up watching the original Star Trek shows I have a soft spot for light science fiction. Chris Pugmire's "The Sentient Advantage" offers a light speed ride full of action, romance, humor and telekinetic ability. It is a fun read that will keep you turning pages in between looking up at the sky in wonder at what it really out there.

Kayla meets Jaros in an ordinary sort of way when she rents him a room in her house. Save for the way in which Jaros enters the story to start with, by falling from the sky and landing in the ocean, the strangeness begins as he runs to her aid in the night as she screams from nightmares that haunt her. But he runs to her before she starts screaming and the nightmares turn out to be foreshadowing of a very real danger. Stranger still is the uncanny pull toward each other, almost as if they were destined to be together.

But Jaros has no memory of his life and it turns out he isn't supposed to. When the two escape from the Gronch after blowing up Kayla's house and then find themselves facing down the enemy while floating in space, Jaros expresses his feelings. Not long after that they both awake inside of another ship. They've been rescued and are right where they need to be, for the time being. Jaros takes a memory unblocker pill and remembers who he is. Meanwhile Kayla is given lessons in telepathy and telekinesis.

From there the story gets active with the threat of intergalactic war and the picture becomes clearer as Kayla is told about the colony of Alceron. It seems that many of the Earth's UFO sightings and abductions were likely due to this colonization and the desire to build an army of humanoids with telekinetic powers. All in the process of protecting the planet of course, from the Gronch. Will the war be a huge loss for Alceron and Prince Jaros? Will Kayla discover why she is so drawn to this man? Will the Earth be in danger as our evolution in technology and telepathic abilities develop?

Chris Pugmire has written a delicious bit of entertaining Sci Fi. One can't help but compare it positively to the wit and delight of watching classic Start Trek and rooting for one's favorite characters. The use of technology is at a perfect level. Who doesn't like a good house computer that will clean, turn down lights and cook, albeit badly? The mixture of adventure, action, fun, romance, mystery and intrigue all roll up into a very good read.

Sunday, April 10, 2005

Fiction Review

24/7
by Susan DiPlacido
ISBN-10: 1554102170
Review by Heather Froeschl

While New York is the city that never sleeps, Las Vegas is the city that rocks on 24/7. In Susan DiPlacido's novel, "24/7," nothing could be more abundantly clear. Marina Martino is a card counter who just can't stay away from the strip. Living on the east coast, this is a habit that can be very costly, in more ways than one. Miguel Rodriguez is a hot blackjack dealer who is enticed by Marina and odds are that he will come away with more than he gambles for.

Bets are placed and the cards fall as Marina and Miguel heat up the night. Night after night, the first week flies by through elevator rides that we all fantasize about and nearly out of control drives in Miguel's Caddy that leave him breathless. This is one hot affair. But when Marina can't stay away they both realize that this is not just a casual but wild ride. Miguel does things to her that she has never experienced and she inspires him to open up in ways that he has never before been able to. But there is a darker side to both of them and when that all comes spilling out it truly tests who they want to be and what they are together. Deep debt, obligations to dark powers, fear of trust and love, and insecurities are just a few things the two must overcome.

This novel is sizzling hot. This is no light romance; it is a gritty, exciting work of fiction. It is near perfection with its no holds barred sex scenes, emotional roller coaster plots and action packed Vegas settings. The characters are perfectly flawed and deliciously human while the ever-hopping drama filled moments of Sin City surrounds and almost drowns them. This is certainly an adult novel and will likely be passed from girlfriend to girlfriend if readers are even willing to part with it. Like a trip to Vegas, hot and exciting, you will want to return again and again.

For every woman who has even briefly thought of hitting the strip, raking in the bucks and seducing the dealers (and honestly, who hasn't?) this book will take you there through Marina's eyes. There may not be a truly safe bet in the real Vegas but ante up for "24/7" and you won't be sorry.

Thursday, April 7, 2005

Humor, Self Help Review

Moms' Survival Guide to Instant Messaging
by Mary B. Braun
ISBN-10: 0975356704
Review by Heather Froeschl

I consider the generation of today's youth to be an instant generation. They want everything in an instant and they want it now. Mail is too slow, even email is too slow. So today's teens are turning to instant messaging. There are a few programs available for this magic on the computer and cell phones can now be instant message tools as well. So what's wrong with that? Nothing really, except the parents of today's generation of youth might be having a hard time keeping up.

Instant messaging has its own language and while I find it a deplorable habit to get into (my inner editor is screaming) I suspect that it is here to stay. LOL is a common enough thing, but there are plenty more, intricate abbreviations for just about everything a kid wants to say to another kid. Thankfully they aren't too hard to figure out but just in case, "Mom's Survival Guide to Instant Messaging" comes complete with a short dictionary of terms.

Beyond understanding what is said, there are things parents need to be aware of when allowing their kids access. Profiles can be seen by anyone unless they are blocked; this leads to dangerous situations where strangers can "meet" your child online. If you are on dial up networking, the phone bill can get pretty high if your child becomes addicted to instantly conversing with her friends. And then there are the various sound effects that accompany whatever is done on these programs. These can be quite distracting. All of these concerns are addressed in Mary Braun's book in a matter of fact and simple way.

Anyone who has a child on the verge of becoming an instant messager and even those who have already found their kid glued to the screen and tapping feverishly away at the keyboard should pick up a copy of this book. It will at least set your mind at ease that you are not alone in wondering what is all so wonderful about this technology and it might even give you a helpful hint or two. A great gift for moms and grandmoms alike, they might even share it with the dads out there who are anxious to know what ppl r spking about.

Humor Review

Oxygenated Morons
by Louis Dvoretzky
ISBN-10: 0976689006
Review by Heather Froeschl

"Oxygenated Morons" is labeled as a book of random nonsense, and I heartily agree. Though there are a number of bits that do make sense, this book is so punny it is not funny. Full of mental challenges, quirky thoughts and slap-upside-the-head one-liners, this book would make for good bathroom reading. No offense to the author, but it is not a cuddle up on the couch sort of book.

A good gift for the pun thrower in your family (and we all have one) "Oxygenated Morons" is an interesting read. At times I felt that I was trapped in Alice's Wonderland and was reminded of this being said, "If I had a world of my own, everything would be nonsense. Nothing would be what it is, because everything would be what it isn't. And contrary wise, what is, it wouldn't be. And what it wouldn't be, it would. You see?" And also, the Mock Turtle in that works, saying this, "We called him Tortoise because he taught us."

I was also reminded of my father-in-law, who is the pun thrower in our clan, and found myself smiling and nodding when coming across a bit of "wisdom" that was something I know he would say.

Louis Dvoretzky has compiled an interesting bit of reading that, taken in small doses, could possibly make one think, laugh, groan, smirk, acknowledge his wisdom or even slam the book shut. Well done!

Self Help/Non-Fiction/Humor Review

Moms' Survival Guide to Instant Messaging
by Mary B. Braun
ISBN-10: 0975356704
Review by Heather Froeschl

I consider the generation of today's youth to be an instant generation. They want everything in an instant and they want it now. Mail is too slow, even email is too slow. So today's teens are turning to instant messaging. There are a few programs available for this magic on the computer and cell phones can now be instant message tools as well. So what's wrong with that? Nothing really, except the parents of today's generation of youth might be having a hard time keeping up.

Instant messaging has its own language and while I find it a deplorable habit to get into (my inner editor is screaming) I suspect that it is here to stay. LOL is a common enough thing, but there are plenty more, intricate abbreviations for just about everything a kid wants to say to another kid. Thankfully they aren't too hard to figure out but just in case, "Mom's Survival Guide to Instant Messaging" comes complete with a short dictionary of terms.

Beyond understanding what is said, there are things parents need to be aware of when allowing their kids access. Profiles can be seen by anyone unless they are blocked; this leads to dangerous situations where strangers can "meet" your child online. If you are on dial up networking, the phone bill can get pretty high if your child becomes addicted to instantly conversing with her friends. And then there are the various sound effects that accompany whatever is done on these programs. These can be quite distracting. All of these concerns are addressed in Mary Braun's book in a matter of fact and simple way.

Anyone who has a child on the verge of becoming an instant messager and even those who have already found their kid glued to the screen and tapping feverishly away at the keyboard should pick up a copy of this book. It will at least set your mind at ease that you are not alone in wondering what is all so wonderful about this technology and it might even give you a helpful hint or two. A great gift for moms and grandmoms alike, they might even share it with the dads out there who are anxious to know what ppl r spking about.

Tuesday, April 5, 2005

Children's book/Spirituality Review

Searching for the Waters of Antiquity
by Shirley Ryan
ISBN-10: 0975419609
Review by Heather Froeschl

"Searching for the Waters of Antiquity" is a beautiful, peaceful read that will inspire you to open your soul and quiet your mind. Through the life of Tag, a turtle searching for his path, readers will experience the peace that comes from looking within.

Tag sets out on his journey and is postponed by a stop in the backyard garden of the great creatures and their furry friends. Tag is given treats and is allowed to live happily and content in this bit of paradise. But soon the elders come to visit and he is reminded to keep searching for his path as it leads to the Ceremony of Change. He searches, leaving the security of that place, taking risk and eventually being rewarded for it.

The story is simple, yet so very deep. One must follow their own path on this journey of life. Letting go of what we think we know in order to learn again is the way to develop the soul. This is what life is for; everyone has a ceremony of change awaiting them. The book reads like a story but in effect it is a guided meditation. The illustrations accompany the text and compliment the tale as well as the message. It is a peaceful journey to read this book and one you will take over and over again, helping yourself to follow your own path and find your own garden of knowledge, with flowing waters of antiquity to soothe you.

"Searching for the Waters of Antiquity" can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Every reader will identify with Tag and may or may not come to realize that he represents the self. What matters is that Tag realizes his life journey and is a guide for all who read about him. Shirley Ryan has given readers a gift through her words and her paintings. This title is sure to become a cherished guide for all who pick it up.

Fiction Review

Trattoria
by Susan Diplacido
ISBN-10: 1594260818
Review by Heather Froeschl

Wild and crazy things happen in Vegas. Sometimes folks just want to forget they were ever there. And sometimes Vegas won't let them forget, or even let them leave. For Lucy, Val and Cyrus, Vegas means the family restaurant, family squabbles and good old Italian family values. For Alex, Tony, Josie and Danny, Vegas means new beginnings, new friendships and honest to goodness real love. For everyone involved, it's a sure bet and the only way to gamble.

Lucy is the glue for this family and the book centers around her even while it shines the spotlight on her gorgeous sister Val. Even through troubles with a land hungry developer, undercooked chicken and a sleazy bank officer Lucy somehow manages to overcome it all and help everyone else in the process. Will the family lose the dream of doing business in sin city? Will Lucy continue to lose herself in her passion of cooking? Will Cyrus stop searching for happiness in money and focus on real life? And what will happen to Danny - will he be able to get a break and make it as an actor, or will he be stuck waiting tables and flirting with disaster? What's more important though is the question of whether Lucy will allow herself to love, be loved and to overcome the pain of her sister stealing her fiancé.

Trattoria is a hot novel full of fun, fantasy and a fantastic family. The shouting of an Italian family is the sign of abundant love, even when it comes down to the groom getting a punch to the jaw. Susan DiPlacido offers readers a chance to escape to Vegas, have a few rounds and enjoy the ride. This book is just packed with the stories that make for a memorable read, and just the sort of thing you might expect when reading about the strip - save the heavy gambling. Lust, love, giddy happiness and deep depression are just a few of the emotions this book portrays. All things will pass, and eventually can be laughed about - even a three-carat diamond ring. Not everything that happens in Vegas can be spoken of, but you can read about it all right here.