Author: Marissa DeCuir

A former award-winning journalist with national exposure, Marissa now oversees the day-to-day operation of the Books Forward author branding and book marketing firm, along with our indie publishing support sister company Books Fluent. Born and bred in Louisiana, currently living in New Orleans, she has lived and developed a strong base for our company and authors in Chicago and Nashville. Her journalism work has appeared in USA Today, National Geographic and other major publications. She is now interviewed by media on best practices for book marketing.

Intimate memoir depicts change and discovery between mom and daughter — and how it’s never too late to come of age

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

Intimate memoir depicts change and discovery between mom and daughter — and how it’s never too late to come of age

Bellingham, WASHINGTON – It’s never too late to find and mend the broken places within ourselves and in our relationships with others. This is exemplified in Barbara Clarke’s compassionate story exploring the long-term effects of an early betrayal of a child and how that transforms her life. In “The Red Kitchen,” (April 6, 2021, She Writes Press) Clarke shows how to keep a sense of humor in the worst of times — part understanding and part forgiveness — and describes how to work with memory, trust and finding long-term solutions to trauma.

Mother-daughter relationships are notoriously tricky. Add to that a secretive father and an aloof husband, and you have the makings of a memoir full of grit, honesty, and humor. This account is really about two women, Clarke and her mother, who both surrendered for years to society’s expectations before realizing there’s more to life than just being a wife, mother and dutiful daughter. How about being yourself?

A summer spent in a small village in Kenya allowed Clarke to discover why everyone mattered, especially her mother, and that simple is often better. She embraced a new aspiration: to be a complete person — funny, compassionate, complex and often flawed. Both women, in incredibly different ways, come of age, find the loving parts of their early relationship and start living their best lives, all the while detailing how to live with issues ranging from aging parents, sexuality, and the long-term effects of trauma on women and girls.

Early praise for Barbara Clarke and “The Red Kitchen”

“[Barbara’s] own poetic turns of phrase and biting metaphors brighten the work and deepen its impact, illustrating mindful ways of navigating one’s circumstances.”
— Foreword-Clarion Reviews

“ ‘The Red Kitchen’ is a lyrical and painful chronicle of a dysfunctional — and typical — American family. Barbara Clarke’s engaging coming-of-age story during the 1950s and 1960s and beyond involves growing up in this difficult family and then returning to it in order to find healing and, finally, redemption. It is also the story of a woman’s slow but steady shift from meeting everybody else’s expectations toward striving to realize her own dreams. A vivid and well-written memoir.”
— Priscilla Long, author of
“Fire and Stone: Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?”

“Clarke is fearless in her assessment of her experiences, her relationships and herself. Her insights ring true, her enthusiasms are contagious, and her writing (especially about the often murky complications of human sexuality) is first-rate. I’ve been reading a lot of memoirs recently, and I’d put ‘The Red Kitchn’ right up there with my favorites.”
— Molly Giles, author of
three award-winning story collections, most recently “All the Wrong Places”

“As a woman in midlife, Barbara takes on the challenge of traveling overseas as part of a group of social service providers and, while in a totally foreign land, confronts not only her own personal ennui, but also her whiteness and connection to the colonialism that has created chaos in much of the world. … And in so doing, she discovers that she is changed forever. … These chapters inspire me to get outside of my comfort zone, just as Clarke did, and offer myself a chance to let discomfort transform me.”
— Cami Ostman, founder of The Narrative Project and author of
“Second Wind: One Woman’s Midlife Quest to Run Seven Marathons on Seven Continents”

“In her memoir ‘The Red Kitchen,’ Barbara Clarke braids pathos and humor deftly and with great compassion and honesty. Her chapter ‘Good Vibrations’ is hilarious, wise and gentle.
— Andrew Shattuck McBride, co-editor of For Love of Orcas

“The Red Kitchen”
Barbara Clarke | April 6, 2021
She Writes Press | Memoir
Paperback | 9781647420086 | $16.95
Ebook | $9.95

About the Author

In the past, Barbara Clarke has written extensively for corporate clients, trade magazines, worked under a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation grant, non-profit organizations as a grant writer, and for local and alternative newspapers on a variety of topics.

In 2009 she published an indie memoir, “Getting to Home: Sojourn in a Perfect House,” about the process of building a house as a single woman. Other publications followed. For more info, visit https://barbaraclarke.net/.

 

In an interview, Barbara Clarke can discuss:

  • The challenges of unearthing old memories of trauma and the risk of not being believed
  • How the conversation around long-term effects of trauma to women and validating their experiences has changed through the years
  • How important learning to live together as mother and daughter is, especially during a pandemic
  • How sharing the good and bad of a family can help others with their journey of discovery
  • The role of women in families and in the workplace

An Interview with Barbara Clarke

1. This book is a prime example that someone is never too old to come of age. How did you and your mother recognize this when you were in your 40s and when she was in her 70s?

I had to completely leave the country and all of the labels — mother, wife, daughter, sister — to find out who I had become and what I wanted to be. For my mother, the death of her controlling husband opened up her world and what she had missed most of her life.

2. A standout story from the book is about buying your mother a vibrator. How did you approach talking about sex with her?

My mother was always curious about sex. She told me just before I married at age 20 that “sex can be beautiful.” I knew even before that it wasn’t for her. After we reconciled, long walks on the beach were her way of really talking about sex and confessing her lack of orgasms. I decided to remedy the situation.

3. What are some tools that have served you in surviving a chaotic or traumatic childhood?

I was fortunate to find good therapists, had close women friends who listened and advised, and had a kind of grit from early childhood that allowed me to survive the chaos. Due to an early betrayal, I was a very young observer and had formed fairly good survival skills. Once we’re adults, those tools often don’t continue to serve us, and the trick is to find new adult tools.

4. How are you and your daughters now managing as mother and daughters?

I have lived with my oldest daughter for more than 10 years, and we are still working things out. I am still her mother and push buttons from her childhood and she mine as her mother. We have worked hard to develop better talking skills and try to treat an “incident” however small as soon as possible.

5. Has the role of women in families and in the workplace changed all that much? How has COVID-19 affected this?

Women still do most of the child rearing, household management, and often meals, shopping and laundry. While men are learning, it’s still uneven. The debate about nature (men)/nurture (women) is still going on. Meanwhile, with the COVID-19 arrival, many women are back home working, managing their children, or having to go to work under the worst circumstances. Working-class mothers are especially affected by the pandemic at home and at work. Service workers and caregivers, in particular, are still making the lowest wages and doing the hardest work.

6. What do you hope readers gain from reading about your relationship with your mother?

I hope that readers see that reconciliation and love is possible even when things get off to an incredibly rocky start. I hope readers find that the human condition is terribly flawed, often funny and touching in the way mothers and daughters bond, un-bond and come together again as adults. I would also hope they see that mothers and daughters can be true allies and friends but need to understand that there is still a mother and a daughter and a history. And finally, that they’ll discover that forgiveness might be too much of a stretch (not even a person’s job or right to do that) but that regard and understanding and love is possible — with lots of work to get there.

Memoir illustrates tumultuous journey through childhood

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

Themes of survival, resiliency shine in Angela Howard’s immersive book

Memphis, TN – Angela Howard recounts how she persevered through her traumatic childhood to come out the other side as a successful nurse, motivational speaker, educator and parent. “Sin Child” (March 31, 2020, Books Fluent) is the personal account of a strong-minded child who endured a daily struggle to find the smallest amount of acceptance and, many times, a place to fall asleep at night. Angela came to accept loss, abuse, and organized crime as a natural part of her life. The innocence and nostalgia of a one-traffic-light town fades too fast for the cotton-top child with a neglectful, angry mother and an absent father.

The AIDS epidemic and simple abandonment repeatedly robbed her of friends and loved ones. This emotionally raw autobiography continues the national discussion about the role of childhood trauma in a person’s development. Angela tells the riveting story of childhood trauma and abandonment, alongside a narrative of grit and determination.

It is a gutsy and insightful story without a silver lining. There is no knight in shining armor that rescues the damsel in distress. It shows resiliency and maturity of a child who becomes a strong and respected woman through her own resolve to overcome extreme neglect and abuse to survive and achieve. By sharing her own life with us, Angela shows how self-reflection and knowledge, with a huge dose of perseverance, can entirely change the course of someone’s life.

“Sin Child”
Angela Howard | April 13, 2021 | Books Fluent | Memoir
Hardcover | 978-1643787558 | $27.95
Paperback | 978-1643787541 | $13.95
Ebook | B085Z2CT19 | $4.50

Angela Howard is a first-time author and the founder of PTSD-ACED Foundation, Inc. Angela is a registered nurse and has worked in the medical field for the past 20 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and certifications in Life Care Planning and Medical Case Management.

She is highly impacted by the adverse effects of PTSD secondary to ACEs. She herself has overcome extreme adverse childhood experiences with the highest ACE score of 10. Angela’s health has been adversely affected as she suffers from multiple autoimmune disorders. Angela’s desire is to bring increased awareness of ACEs by educating those affected and individuals in medical and educational fields.

In an interview, Angela Howard can discuss:

  • Adverse Childhood Experiences, and the meaning of ACE scores
  • The correlation between childhood abuse and PTSD
  • Her experiences as a nurse and psychiatric nurse
  • The need victims feel to forgive or “put things right” with their abusers
  • The term “sin child,” which her estranged, conservative Mennonite family members use to describe children born out of wedlock

An Interview with Angela Howard

1. What do you want readers to learn from your life experiences?

I want readers to know and understand that they do not have to be bound by the hurt and secrecies many may have to carry. I hope to liberate others, empower others, and encourage others to let go of what keeps them bound. I want others to lift the veils of negativity so that their resiliency can have a chance to shine.

2. Many abused children survive and succeed, but few live without carrying the pain of their past buried in their heart. How do you cope with that pain?

I use distraction techniques to cope with the ongoing pain. Sometimes I don’t even know I’m doing that, but things will start to come out in the form of flashbacks or night terrors. I try to stay busy with positive things. Doing things to help others understand the affects of trauma are real and helping them overcome the affects makes me most happy. I can spend all day talking to others about their problems and not think of my own.

3. What do you think needs to change regarding the treatment provided to children and teens who suffered from severe abuse that resulted in PTSD?

I believe the first thing that needs to be done is classifying PTSD secondary to adverse childhood experiences as an ICD 10 coded diagnosis. This would allow facilities to be able to treat children and adults under this diagnosis, which would completely change the course of treatment in psychiatric facilities, jails, and schools.

4. How did your life change when you were diagnosed with PTSD and provided with the tools to work through it?

My life changed drastically for the better after being diagnosed with PTSD. I had spent the majority of teenage years and adulthood thinking I was certainly crazy. I never understood how the nightmares and flash backs would not go away and had thought disappear with time. After being diagnosed with PTSD and given the tools essential for working through these issues everything was better. My self confidence was boosted and I was able to gain a full understanding of why these things were not going away. Learning how to cope and deal with things on a daily basis made life much easier.

5. What advice can you give to mothers seeking guidance on parenting after dealing with their own ACEs?

I believe many mothers carry guilt feelings and think and an exaggerated feeling of bad things that happen being their fault. My first piece of advice would be embarrassed or ashamed. None of us can help what happens to us as children, but we do hold the power to change what happens to us in the future. I always encourage individuals to take the ACE test and be honest with themselves and to be sure their healthcare team is aware of their ACE score.

Memoir illustrates painful acceptance of childhood trauma

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

Themes of reconciling, resiliency shine in Rosie McMahan’s immersive book

BOSTON, MA – Rosie McMahan recounts her difficult childhood that left her with feelings of shame, guilt, and a need to reconcile for years to come in “Fortunate Daughter” (April 13, 2021, She Writes Press). Rosie takes us through her experience as she and her family attempt to move on from sexual abuse, and the emotional, spiritual and even cultural complexities that come along with forgiving her father, but never being able to forget the past.

Her family’s open discussions after sexual abuse may not be conventional, but it helped all of their healing processes.

Rosie’s story is shattering beliefs about victims and abusers alike, showing that there is a path to reconciliation if the abuse is acknowledged and the abusers take responsibility. Rosie’s past experience has not changed with her decision to accept it and move on, but her approach has allowed her to continue with her life despite past trauma.

Her training as a counselor and educator is bolstered by what she experienced in her own healing process. Not as someone who experienced betrayal, abuse, and abandonment. Those things happened to her and they are important to acknowledge. What informs her today, and gives her courage, is her experience of healing. Fortunate Daughter is a way to show others that while not always possible, reconciliation can be achieved and be a fulfilling step on the road to true healing. An inspiring story of bravery and honesty in the face of trauma.

“Fortunate Daughters: A Memoir of Reconciliation”
Rosie McMahan | April 13, 2021| She Writes Press | Memoir
Paperback | 978-1-64742-024-6 | $16.95

ROSIE MCMAHAN: Rosie McMahan was brought up in Somerville, MA at a time when kids and dogs roamed the streets in unlawful packs, and the walk to a barroom or a Catholic church was less than a quarter of a mile away in any direction. Her and her husband moved to western MA in 2001 to raise their children, now 23 and 18 years old.

Her writing has received prizes and she can be heard reading in local venues, including Pecha Kucha (a local storytelling event), the annual Garlic & Arts Festival and the Greenfield Annual Word Festival (GAWF). In October 2017, she was one of the featured writers in “The Gallery of Readers” series held at Smith College each year. And in 2018, her writing was presented in a juried exhibition titled

“COLLABORATION” held at the Burnett Gallery in Amherst, MA. She has also been published in several journals, including Silkworm, Typehouse Literary Magazine, Black Fox Literary Magazine, the 2017 Gallery of Readers Anthology, and Passager Journal. Recently, she wrote a piece titled “After All These Years” that was published on https://www.timetotell.org/curated-stories.

In an interview, Rosie McMahan can discuss:

  • What conditions need to exist for someone to be able to reconcile with their perpetrator – working with skilled therapists who understand and value healing
  • Her work as a counselor utilizing restorative justice principles and trauma informed care values
  • What led her to become a survivor activist who embraces resiliency, honesty and compassion in the work she does
  • Active rejection of the stigma that comes from being someone identified as a person with a trauma history who does not distinguish herself as a victim
  • The experience of going through a constructed reconciliation process that allowed for a healing journey that didn’t just benefit Rosie, but her whole family

An Interview with Rosie McMahan

1. What do you want readers to learn from your life experience?

So many things. What it is like to experience childhood sexual abuse in the context of one’s family. The difficult journey of healing.The multifaceted process of going through reconciliation with one’s parents, the main perpetrators of abuse. The need for people in helping positions to deepen their understanding of what it means to enter a child’s life with the intention to prevent abuse and promote healing. Healing practices must recognize the possibility of healing – even when it’s not clear that it’s an option.

2. Many abused children survive and thrive, but few live without the trauma of their past within them. How has your experience and acceptance of what happened helped you with that?

‘The past is never the past’ – fully – for anyone. If you want to know me, really know me, you have to understand that I was injured as a child, but you also have to know about my healing experience. As a culture, we are more comfortable focusing on the harm than we are on the healing, for both the victims and the perpetrators. That needs to change. My healing journey allowed for me to move forward in my life for a few reasons, one of them being that my parents, the perpetrators, were invited to participate in a confrontation process that ultimately provided us to reconcile with one another. If this was a more available option, more people would be able to participate and more people would be able to heal in this way.

3. What advice would you give to people searching for a way to “put things right”, and forgive?

This, too, is a complicated process. You have to be able to access good (trauma informed) care. You have to be willing to do the work of healing. You have to acknowledge what happened and not downplay or dismiss your feelings about it. You have to be brave. You have to reject some of the early lessons you learned that did not promote mental health and well being. You have to decide what you need independent of what others may offer you. You have to risk the potential loss of family members from your life.

4. How has your life changed since you accepted your past as part of who you are?

My life is influenced by many things. When I was a child and well into my teens, I didn’t have many examples of people who’d gone through what I endured and had been able to succeed. I thought – even if I healed – I was doomed to a life that would be more tragic and unfulfilling. It took me a long time to embrace the notion that I wasn’t just ‘damaged goods’. That is why I wrote this story. That is why I want to share it. Many people are injured and a lot of them heal. I don’t know anyone else who was permitted the experience of reconciliation that I was. That is what has made a huge difference.

5. What do you think needs to change regarding the way people and the media in general acknowledge sexual abuse? Do you think there needs to be a system in place that helps families talk through their trauma?

First, we need to acknowledge that sexual abuse and the epidemic of sexual abuse is real. Then we need to help families in such a way that affords them the option my family had. Systems – child protective services – have been realizing for some time that the decision to remove children from their parents when there is real concern of harm – while it might be essential at times – is not necessarily a long term solution for many families.

Death, suspense, and betrayal meet with unexpected hope in 70s-inspired debut mystery novel

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

PALM SPRINGS, CA – Marco Carocari’s debut novel, Blackout (Level Best Books, March 30, 2021) has been described by award-nominated author Gabriel Valjan as “Rear Window meets the dating app.” This page-turning book is full of twists that keeps the reader guessing.

Strait-laced forty-something Franco definitely picked the wrong night to get freaky. A hook-up with a hot guy on his Manhattan rooftop, and a joint he’s unaware is laced, leaves him dazed. And – if memory serves him – the sole witness to a murder across the street. Except, the cops can’t find a crime scene or a body, and Franco’s perforated recollections and conflicting testimony leave the detectives unimpressed. When days later the mutilated body of a philanthropic millionaire is discovered, he’s not only shocked to learn he knew him, but with Franco’s fingerprints all over the crime scene, he quickly graduates from unreliable witness to prime suspect. And the random trick who could alibi him has vanished into the anonymity of the Internet.

Unsettled, and confronted with forty-year-old memories, when Franco’s father was murdered in front of him during Manhattan’s infamous blackout, a shocking revelation finally unmasks the man who pulled the trigger that night. And painting Franco the perfect suspect. With a target on his back and time running out, the truth will set Franco free, or earn him a toe tag at the morgue.

Read the title that author PJ Vernon calls “a gripping debut from an exciting new author to watch that had me turning pages long into the night.”

“Blackout”
Marco Carocari | March 30, 2021 | Level Best Books | Mystery
Paperback | 1953789099 | $17.95 | Ebook | B08WBQDTFS | $5.99

Marco Carocari: Marco Carocari grew up in Switzerland. After seeing Murder, She Said on TV his grandmother gifted him Agatha Christie’s 4:50 From Paddington. Though hugely disappointed that the real Miss Marple bore no resemblance whatsoever to the brilliant and funny Margaret Rutherford, he was hooked, and devoured every crime novel he could get his hands on that his parents didn’t object to (considering he was ten). Over the years, he worked in a hardware store, traveled the globe working for the airlines, and later as an internationally published photographer, and frequently jobbed as a waiter, hotel receptionist, or manager of a professional photo studio. In 2016 he swapped snow-capped mountains, lakes, and lush, green pastures for the charm of the dry California desert, where he lives with his husband. ‘Blackout’ is his first novel.

Follow Marco Carocari on social media:
Facebook: @marcocarocari | Twitter: @marco_carocari | Instagram: @marcocarocari

In an interview, Marco can discuss:

  • His inspiration for Blackout and how he found its roots in past mystery books and shows
  • Writing from the perspective of an LGBTQ narrator, and the importance of amplifying LGBTQ voices in general
  • The draw towards mystery as a genre and when he first fell in love with it
  • Growing up in Switzerland and how his experience there has influenced his work
  • His writing process and plans for his future as an author

An Interview with Marco Carocari

1. What helped you find inspiration for Blackout?

I love the 70s and NYC and all things music, and so I set out to write a mystery that paid homage to these things. Originally, the book opened outside Studio 54, where Franco’s dad gets murdered on his way home. But then I found out about the blackout of ‘77 and was hooked. What if your father gets murdered in front of four-year old you, and then the entire city does dark? That traumatic experience is about to resurface when we meet Franco in a somewhat compromising situation on his rooftop, nearly forty years later.

2. Why did you decide to have a gay man as your main character? How important is representation for the LGBTQ+ community in books?

I wanted a book with a forty-something protagonist I could relate to, and where gay is a part of the character’s life, but doesn’t drive the story. After a surge in the 80s and 90’s, where fantastic queer writers like Joseph Hansen, Michael Nava, Armistead Maupin and many others gave us wonderful books that were hugely popular, recent years offered little LGBTQ+ presence in traditional crime fiction.

It took me nearly eight years to get here, and I’m happy to see that we are currently experiencing a wonderful new wave of diverse authors finally getting recognition, and a chance to tell their stories. Everyone needs to have positive role models and protagonists they can identify with.

3. When did your love of mysteries come about?

When I was about ten years old and my mom introduced me to the Miss Marple movies from the 1960s. My grandmother gifted me my first Agatha Christie novel, but I was bummed when the real Miss Marple had absolutely nothing in common with Margaret Ruhterford. Still, I read all of Christie’s books, and also discovered Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Three Investigators’, and the only book my dad ever recommended to me, ‘The Thomas Crown Affair’. Over the past years, my go-tos have been Michael Connelly, John Connolly, Jefferey Deaver and Rachel Howzell-Hall and S A Cosby, to name a few – their writings inspire me, and are setting the bar of what I hope to accomplish in the future, my way.

4. You grew up in Switzerland. Does your upbringing and perspective from living overseas influence your writing?

Probably more than I’m aware. Our school system and my surroundings were different, as were many of the products we grew up with, and when writing American characters, I have to read up on that, talk to people, and find out what it felt like for them to make it sound authentic. Talking with my American husband, it’s fascinating to see where our experiences overlap and where culture ‘shaped’ us differently.

In my family, a lot of our ‘cues’ and influences for trends, movies or music came from Germany, Italy, France, and the UK. My first ‘face to face’ with America came in the late 70s through shows like ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and the ‘The Streets of San Francisco’, and they had quite an impact on me, igniting my love of pop culture. After coming and visiting here for over thirty years (and now living here for five), my views of America are a lot more informed and realistic than they were, back then. I’ll probably always be somewhat on the outside looking in, but paired with my own experiences, that can also be a bonus.

5. What made you want to write Blackout now?

The original idea started as a dare with myself, almost eight years ago. I had a story in me and felt like it was the right time to try. But I had a lot to learn about writing first, and the process took several years, sprinkled with rejections. Often it’s all about the right time and place, the right fit, and biding your time, and, I’m happy and grateful to say, here we are.

Prolific author expands cult-favorite science fiction series that sold over 40k copies

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

Latest Exodus addition,“Infinite Retribution,” features intergalactic drag queen

PHOENIX, Arizona –In “Infinite Retribution” (Phoenix Books, April 20, 2021), the latest addition to Robert Stadnik’s widely-read Exodus Universe novels, humanity is ready to extend its hand out into space after nearly a century of oppression had prevented them from doing so. Now part of a newly formed alien alliance, the military commemorates this new age by building their first generation of starships to explore the unknown and fortify the solar system. But what was to be a routine survey mission for the starship INFINITY turns ominous as humanity’s greatest enemy, thought extinct, is found hidden on a remote planet. Will the crew try to make peace with the last of the Screen or will their desire for revenge overtake them?

Complementing the launch of “Infinite Retribution,” author Robert Stadnik is also premiering redesigned book covers for the previous books in the Exodus Universe, including:

Exodus of the Phoenix (Book One, 2010)
Phoenix Among the Stars (Book Two, 2011)
Phoenix in Chaos (Book Three, 2012)
Fury of the Phoenix (Book Four, 2012)
Fractured Alliance (Book Five, 2018)
The IO Effect (Exodus Universe novel)
The Jumpgate (Exodus Universe novel)

Stadnik invites both dedicated readers and new fans alike to explore the Exodus Universe, where they will meet memorable characters such as Captain Annette Nikols, newly minted Executive Officer Frank Rola, an intergalactic drag queen and more!

“Infinite Retribution”
Robert Stadnik | April 20, 2021 | Phoenix Books | Science Fiction
Paperback | ISBN: 978-1-953865-05-2

 

 

About the Author

Robert Stadnik is a science fiction writer, author of the Exodus starship adventure series and Exodus Universe novels. Originally from Southern California, Robert has lived in Phoenix, Arizona for over twenty years. He travels extensively for work here in the U.S. and internationally, meeting people from all walks of life. For more information, please visit: https://robertstadnik.com/

 

In an interview, Robert Stadnik can discuss:

  • His inspiration for the various characters in the series
  • How living in Arizona, where there is a strong UFO community, may have influenced his writing
  • Why the series will appeal to fans of Battlestar Galactica
  • How “Infinite Retribution” diverges from the often hyper-strict gender roles of sci-fi’s past
  • Why he includes a thread of hope throughout the series
  • What’s next for him as an author

An Interview with Robert Stadnik

1. Where did you first get the idea for the Exodus Universe, and how did you begin building that world?

I literally dreamt up the EXODUS Universe. I vividly remembered that dream, even to this day. I saw a massive starship rising up from Earth’s atmosphere and taking its first steps into space as it headed away from the planet. When I woke up, I had the entire story running around in my head. I spent that day writing the outline and documenting the characters. Eventually, it turned into the Exodus Series.

I was interested in how the adventures in the Exodus Series shaped other events and characters in this universe I created. The biggest question was how would humanity handle space exploration now that they were free to do so? I began thinking about some of those characters who would be a part of humans first foray into deep space and started coming up with different stories surrounding that theme.

2. Tell us a bit about your characters. Who or what inspired your writing of them?

My characters are usually an amalgam of people I know or met in my life. I did model Annette
Nikols off my older sister. We lost contact with her over 25 years ago and to this day I have no idea if she’s alive or not. She was smart and ambitious, and I imagined what sort of person she might be today. I see Captain Nikols as the person my sister could have become.

I see a lot of myself in Frank Rola. Here’s a confident man who, despite his accomplishments, questions himself when faced with difficult decisions. I think no matter how confident someone is, they will doubt themselves when dealing with a challenging situation. The question is, can you push past those doubts and make those hard choices? That’s something Frank has to face in the novel.

Admiral Karla Vespia. I smile every time I think about her. I don’t know where she came from. She started off as a secondary character in the Exodus Series and kind of took on a life of her own. I never expected to see her in any of the Exodus Universe novels, but she keeps popping up. This is a woman who has lied, blackmailed, and used any underhanded tactic to destroy her enemies and achieve her goals. But I can’t help but love her because she’s honest with herself and unapologetic for her actions. But even with a lifelong career, she still surprises herself.

3. Has living in Arizona influenced your writing at all due to the strong UFO community there?

I’ve read up on the UFO sightings that have occurred in Arizona and I’m always disappointed. One of these days I wished these aliens would just get it over with and come down and say, “Hi!”–then again, not seeing one does fuel our imagination.

One of the things I love about Phoenix is you don’t have to go very far outside the city to get a good glimpse of the stars in the night sky. I used to go to my parents’ house in Prescott, grab a chair, sit out on their driveway and get lost in the stars. I would imagine where some of the ships I’ve created were flying to, or which star systems the aliens I imagined resided. Whenever I hear about a UFO sighting in Phoenix, I’ll go out onto my balcony and stare into the sky, hoping to get a glimpse of something.

4. As with many genres, science fiction has traditionally relied on the use of gender tropes and stereotypes. However, your work, especially “Infinite Retribution,” offers a new, more inclusive perspective. Can you tell us about how and why you’ve diverged from old science fiction stereotypes?

In the Exodus Universe, aliens look at humans as being able to bring individuals together to
achieve a common goal. That characteristic came through as a result of the calamity that hit
Earth in the 21 st century. Surviving through such strife forced people to come together and heal the planet, regardless of their background, ethnicity, gender, etc. The characters in Infinite Retribution are a reflection of how society had evolved over the course of 100 years since the Nuclear Holocaust. The INFINITY captain has had a successful career in the military, admired and respected by all. The head of the military got to where she’s at because of her wit and intelligence. Even the president is considered one of the best leaders, seeing humanity through this new era of exploration. The idea that someone is limited in their potential by who they are is no longer a consideration. It’s their accomplishments that counts.

5. A longstanding theme that traces throughout the series is one of hope. Your writing often focuses on how a small group of underdogs can accomplish the impossible. Why is this message important?

I think a lot of people in their lives have been told, “No, you can’t.” There are individuals out
there who will tell you that you can’t do something, either to sabotage your happiness or in some misguided attempt to look out for your best interests. I certainly encountered that in my own life. My father was supportive of my writing, so long as it was a side hobby, and I didn’t give up my corporate career. I was fortunate that he changed his mind near the end of his life and encouraged me to do what I love. I wanted to convey the message to readers that, if you’re passionate about something, then pursue it. There will be individuals out there more than willing to sow seeds of doubt. Anyone can find the confidence within themselves to ignore such negativity and pursue their happiness.

6. What’s next for you on your writing journey? Can readers expect to see more Exodus Universe novels in the future?

I write what my mind directs me to write. Sometimes I have no control what story I will work on next. I was working on a science fiction spy novel until Infinite Retribution started developing in my head and became too great to ignore, so I began focusing on the newest story in the Exodus Universe. Now that it’s done, I’m back to the spy novel.

I have about 12 unfinished manuscripts waiting for me to complete. Most are science fiction, but I have a couple of fantasy novels I’ve developed. As for the Exodus Universe, yes, there will be more novels. I even have another story regarding the PHOENIX I will be writing. I can give a couple hints about it….the ship will have been in service for nearly 700 years and will see a return of a main character from the Exodus Series….figure that one out!

 

romance novels

Why are romance novels most commonly published in paperback?

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

Ever wonder why romance novels are always published in paperback? During quarantine, I’ve been reading a LOT of romance, and every time I get a new romance novel from the bookstore or a publisher, I noticed they’re always published as paperback. Typically, when a book is first published, they’re produced as hardcover. Hardcover books are more expensive, and can drive a higher profit for publishers in the first six months to a year of a book’s life. It’s after that point that publishers will continue printing the book, but in paperback.

But why is romance different? Why do these books begin their careers as paperback books as opposed to the more expensive and higher quality hardcover?

The short answer is DEMAND. Historically, romance has been the best-selling genre of books in existence. Of course, this fluctuates and changes, and in recent years, we’ve seen an increase in true crime and thriller genres — but from a standpoint of how the industry started, romance was always the highest in demand. Paperbacks are not only cheaper to produce, but they are also easier. So when romance novels were flying off of the shelves, it made sense to get them into the hands of readers as quickly (and cheaply) as possible.

Mass-market paperback novels are also extremely popular in the romance genre. Mass-market paperback novels are the kind you can find for $5 to $10 at airport, grocery stores, etc. They’re often much smaller and more compact than the average paperback. Perfect for tossing in your purse or on-the-go reading! I’ve bought them before simply because they’re the biggest bang for my buck, though admittedly they hurt my eyes!

Notice where they are sold … they’re sold in places that are most convenient to their target audience; middle-aged women. They’re also sold at an affordable price that can act as an add on to any order. I’ve personally been guilty of adding one to my cart at Target simply because it didn’t make that big of a dent in the grocery list, and I doubted that my husband would even notice.

So there you have it; our consistent and constant demand of these spicy, salacious stories are what make them produced at such an affordable price, even right out of the gate. A huge thanks to the publishers for giving us fresh, affordable titles — we see you, and appreciate you for looking out for us and our grocery shopping!

Renowned business leader shares an inspirational story of how to find success in business and in life

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – For Tom Stanley, a slightly overweight lost soul, life has lost its luster. Rather than face the daily grind of life working at his Chevrolet dealership, he’d rather sleep his days away. Just when Tom’s malaise seems like it can’t get any worse, a chance meeting with fellow car dealership owner Daniel Santos changes everything. Tall, tan, and fit, Daniel is renowned for his success and decides to take Tom under his wing. Under Daniel’s guidance, not only does Tom train to run his first marathon but also learns what it takes to turn his business into a success!

From the mind of Utah business leader and success coach David R. Ibarra, “Stop Drifting” (March 9, 2021, 3L Publishing) is a story about how one man finds his way to success, both in business and in life, by following key strategies that the author credits for his own successful career. Inspired by the Brain Model principles of Napoleon Hill, David Ibarra’s “Stop Drifting” uses a compelling narrative to teach readers not only how to identify their purpose in life, but to apply that purpose to their business, create new training processes, implement new business strategies, and how to “Pivot to Positive” and overcome the debilitating influence of doubt and uncertainty. “Stop Drifting” is a story of great imagination that offers readers new strategies to spark inspiration and new ways to master their mindset and achieve their dreams. Whether you’re looking for inspiration in your business or personal life, with “Stop Drifting,” David Ibarra wants to wake readers up to exciting new ways of thinking, being, and living.

“Stop Drifting: Become the Switch Master of Your Own Thought and Pivot to Positive”
David R. Ibarra | March 9, 2021 | 3L Publishing| Business, Self-Help
Hardcover | 978-1-7339150-8-3 | $21.99

About David R. Ibarra

Author of “Stop Drifting: Become the Switch Master of Your Own Thought and Pivot to Positive,” David R. Ibarra is a leadership consultant and successful entrepreneur in Salt Lake City who blazed his own trail to success after being raised in the Utah foster care system.

At 28 years old he started his first business, beginning a career that spans the restaurant, automotive, and leadership consulting industries. David wrote “Stop Drifting” as a chapter within his “Life Purpose” journey. He is dedicated to working with employed adults who often drift through life unsatisfied. His leadership coaching focuses on developing talent and teaching individuals how to become goal setters and achieve a positive work experience, which creates the freedom to find success in other roles including family, faith, community, and health.

Humble Beginnings
David’s story began as the son of a Mexican immigrant father and a rural Utah mother. When his parents divorced, 2-year-old David and his 3-year-old brother Mickey were placed into foster care until they reconnected with their father as teenagers. At eighteen years of age, David started his career in the hospitality industry as a dishwasher. Ten years later, he became the youngest franchise owner of Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Restaurant – a division of the Marriott Corporation.

Business Leader
David held several positions for the Marriott Corporation, and was the general manager of a large automobile dealership. These experiences, from entry level to management, prepared him to form the Ibarra companies, which include an insurance firm, brokerage firm, learning institute, and performance software companies. David is a well-known public speaker, trainer, and success coach who is invited to deliver keynote addresses all across the United States. David is also the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Salt Lake Community College.

Giving Back
David has participated in a variety of community and leadership positions, including an appointment by President Clinton to the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors. David has also served as a board member for the Salt Lake International Airport, Utah Private Industry Council, Central Region Council of the Utah Department of Workforce Services, Latino Leaders Network, and Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Much of David’s personal charitable contributions are directed to the Ibarra Foundation, which David started to make college possible for Latino students by providing full tuition scholarships. Since 2004, over 100 students have received a college education with the Foundation’s help. For over 30 years, David has been committed to “Time Tithing” – weekly mentoring sessions for people, from all walks of life, who bring their business ideas and concerns to him for advice.

In an interview, David R. Ibarra can discuss:

  • His humble beginnings growing up in Utah’s foster care system and his stunning personal transformation to become a well-known public speaker and business coach.
  • The ambitions behind writing “Stop Drifting,” helping adults struggling with a lack of passion at work and helping people achieve their dreams.
  • His mission to introduce everyone to their other self, the self who believes they can do anything and igniting the love for life that they once had.
  • The concepts introduced in his book – drifting, the Brain Model, Dr. Doubt, how to Become the Switch Master of Your Own Thought® and Pivot to Positive®.
  • How David’s first mentor shaped the rest of his life, and how he has given back to his community – David created the Ibarra Foundation to make college possible for Latino students by providing full tuition scholarships. Since 2004, 100+ students have received a college education with the foundation’s help. For 30+ years, David has held weekly mentoring sessions for people, from all walks of life, who bring their business ideas and concerns to him for advice.

An Interview with David R. Ibarra

1. “Stop Drifting” centers on two main characters, Tom Stanley (a drifter, unmotivated lost soul, unsuccessful car dealer) and Daniel Santos (a non-drifter, a goal setter and scorekeeper, a successful entrepreneur and car dealer). Were you like Tom at one point in your life? Are you more like Daniel now? How so?

Yes, like many people, my life has been a winding road, not a straight path to the achievement of success. My journey started by spending 14 years of my childhood in foster care, wondering if I really mattered. I became a very angry young man and a poor student who was often in trouble. I struggled and wondered if success was meant for me, much like Tom Stanley.

At just 18 years old, my dishwasher job at Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Restaurant turned out to be one of the most significant experiences of my life. I met Mr. Robert E. Farrell, who became my first business coach and mentor. He challenged me to study “Think and Grow Rich” by Dr. Napoleon Hill and become a disciple of its Principles of Success. Mr. Farrell helped me dream big, find my purpose, gain the burning desire for success, believe it, and then achieve it. Just 10 years later, I opened my first business as the youngest Farrell’s franchisee. I have grown to be very successful in all aspects of life while never forgetting the debt that I owe to Mr. Farrell, donating my time to employed individuals who need help finding their goals and purpose.

There is no doubt that I started out life as Tom Stanley and have become Daniel Santos.

2. You were raised in foster care for about 14 years of your life. How did that experience shape you into the person you are today, personally and professionally?

My story began as the son of a Mexican immigrant father and a rural Utah white mother. By the time I was 1 year old, the predictable happened, my parents divorced. My father went into the army and my 18-year-old mother relinquished custody of my brother, Mickey, and I to the Utah foster care system. For the first 14 years of our lives, we were without traditional parents. As kids we wondered about who we were and why we were alone. I often questioned if I really mattered. While my brother, Mickey, fit in and did well, I withdrew, became shy, troubled and angry. I resented being in foster care and wanted to live with my dad, who remained in contact with us as we grew up.  At 14, I begged my dad to let me live with him. He granted my wish on one condition, Mickey and I had to stay together. We had never been apart and frankly Mickey, even though he is only 11 months older than me, was more like a parent to me than a brother. Mickey agreed to my dad’s condition and that became a major crossroad in our lives. 

Foster care taught me to become a problem solver and stoked a burning desire to become a “have” rather than a “have not.” Best of all I gained a love for my brother that would be hard for any other siblings to match. I also learned important lessons from my father – how to work hard, play by the rules, never give up and always give back. What a lucky break the foster care experience was for my brother and me.

3. “Stop Drifting” isn’t your run-of-the-mill book about business leadership. It’s written creatively, colorfully and thoughtfully as a work of narrative fiction (but it obviously mirrors your own life!). What can you tell us about your approach to writing this book?

While “Stop Drifting” is a story of fiction, it is based in fact. During my 40 years as a performance coach, I have found that most people are drifting – wondering if they really matter. Once they learn the mystical power of the Brian Model, the magic occurs and positive thoughts replace negative ones and success becomes contagious. “Stop Drifting” uses all the most common drifting examples that I saw while coaching at the many companies who hired me to help them change their Talent Mix. I divided these common examples into groups and then developed fictional characters based on these groupings. I believe sharing my coaching lessons in a story will help teach the principles of “Think and Grow Rich” in a fun learning experience.

4. Your book is called “Stop Drifting: Become the Switch Master of Your Own Thought and Pivot to Positive.” Can you break the title down for us?

I have found that 90% of people are drifting – they have no goal or life purpose. Drifters are victims of a negative-state-of-mind. They have no idea how their mind works and thinks. I developed the Brain Model to make it easier to understand how failure and success occur. Both happen based on how individuals seed their subconscious mind. Individuals who focus on positive thoughts, will create a positive state of mind which leads to thinking and believing things that you never dreamed were possible. By staying in a positive state of mind, we allow ourselves to Pivot to Positive® and rid ourselves of Dr. Doubt. Once a person understands that their state of mind is a choice and controlling their state of mind can be learned, they are on the path to becoming the Switch Master of Your Own Thought®. Most people have the ability to learn these principles quickly and are able to put them into practice almost instantly. During my coaching I coined the phrases – Become the Switch Master of Your Own Thought® and Pivot to Positive®. These two phrases help to keep the Brain Model visible in our students’ mind which allow them to gain control of their thoughts and emotions. This process became a game changer in their journey to success.

5. Sometimes people drift without even realizing it. What are some signs they can look out for?

Those who are drifting often find themselves dreading the day ahead of them. They don’t like their jobs, they are generally unhappy and they are dissatisfied with themselves and those around them. The easiest way to identify a drifter is to simply ask the person to articulate what they want in the way of goal or purpose. A person that cannot answer the simple “want question” is drifting.

6. In your book, you mention overcoming Dr. Doubt – what does that mean?

Learning the mystical power of becoming the Switch Master of Your Own Thought® is the key to gaining the power to achieve what you want. When negative emotion enters your thought, Dr. Doubt starts to whisper to you. His goal is to lock your brain and introduce you to one or more of the seven fears. Like the fear of not having enough money, criticism, loss of health, loss of love, old age, loss of free time, or even the fear of death itself. That allows Dr. Doubt to introduce you to his Negative Nuthouse and once inside it is difficult to get out. You begin to suffocate in unhappiness, wondering if success was meant for you, and that nothing in your life is going to change. “Stop Drifting” teaches the reader how to get out of a negative state of mind and how to live in a positive state of mind where good things happen.

7. What is the Brain Model?

Learning to become the Switch Master of Your Own Thought® and Pivot to Positive® to control your state-of-mind starts with understanding how your brain works.

  • 80% of your brain is your subconscious. Your subconscious has only one job and that is to do whatever your thoughts tell it to do.
  • 15% of your brain is your conscious. Your conscious is your conductor, your driver; it seeds your thought into your subconscious, telling it what to do, and your subconscious finds a way to make it a reality – good or bad.
  • On top of your consciousness is the 5% of your brain that is your imagination. Now that’s where all the action happens.
  • There are two kinds of imagination. One is your positive state of mind – You believe. And the other is your negative state of mind – You disbelieve. “Stop Drifting” teaches one how to maintain a positive state of mind.

8. When people are suffocating in unhappiness at work, how does that translate to other parts of their lives (family, faith, community, health, etc.)?

If a person does not conquer work by being successful, then work thoughts never leave their mind and they feel fear and stress constantly. Therefore, they are never truly present, or stress free in their family, faith, community and sound health roles. Success at work creates better parents, partners, and neighbors, which create a better world.

9. Does the work related to personal transformation ever end, or does it just evolve?

They are connected – once you create a positive mindset, like attracts like and all the roles gain strength until you and your loved ones are the role models to your circle of influence.

10. For many people, 2020 was a year punctuated by loss, grief and overwhelming negativity. How can people recover and rebound after such a tough time?

When encountering adversity there will always be a seed of an equivalent benefit that presents itself. We must learn to look for it and be ready to take advantage of the opportunity. At the beginning of the 2020 pandemic, most of us became “shelter in” isolated with a great deal of idle time. I quickly found my equivalent benefit – I had TIME. I wrote down everything I said I would do if I only had the time. Writing “Stop Drifting” was the result of having the gift of time. In short, my work team and I took advantage of the gift of time and put actions into motion as quickly as possible. When you’re busy in actions, you gain belief and confidence.

Friendship blossoms in feel-good series debut demonstrating how trust and teamwork empower our differences

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Murfreesboro, TN — Christine Isley-Farmer weaves together a charming tale featuring a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as the story’s narrator. “Finding My Yip” (March 2, 2021, Wandering in the Words Press) is the first book in her “Boomer’s Tales” series.

When Boomer is a puppy he is unable to yip like his mother and sisters. Boomer lives with Nana Weathers, a musician who possesses a magical ring that helps them communicate. Boomer quickly bonds with Nana’s nine-year-old granddaughter Chloe, who has a stutter. Chloe’s big wish is to sing beautifully like Nana. Chloe and Boomer make new friends at dog obedience school and grow their confidence together. By teaming up in the music room and gaining a little help from their friends, Chloe and Boomer try to find their voices.

The stories in opera and song have always fascinated and inspired Christine. The power of storytelling and music’s healing qualities have woven their way through her life and found a voice in this series. Chloe and Boomer seek to develop confidence, make friends, and strengthen their bond while challenging their greatest fears.

“Finding My Yip: Boomer’s Tales: Book 1”
Christine Isley-Farmer | March 2, 2021 | Wandering in the Words Press
Paperback | 978-1-7332126-6-3 | $8.95
EBook | 978-1-7332126-7-0 | $3.95
Children’s Chapter Book

About The Author

Christine Isley-Farmer, Professor Emerita of Music at Middle Tennessee State University, has had extensive experience in both opera and concert. Her broad performance history includes opera, operetta, musical theatre, oratorio, and concerts in the United States and Europe. Dr. Isley-Farmer earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in voice performance from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she taught for 2 years after her return from Europe, and the D.M.A. in voice performance and literature with a minor in German Literature from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Since 1997, Dr. Isley-Farmer has been a certified teacher of the Alexander Technique and is a teaching member of Alexander Technique International. Her articles on Alexander Technique and singing have been published in professional journals.

In an interview, Christine Isley-Farmer can discuss:

  • Her education and career revolving around music both as a performer and educator
  • The themes of friendship, trust, teamwork and determination in the book
  • Why she wanted to include a child with a stutter in her book
  • The second book in this series, which is a mystery
  • Her love for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog breed
  • What it was like to have a career as a professional singer

An Interview with Christine Isley-Farmer

1. How does your choice of nine-year-old Chloe having a stutter and young puppy Boomer being unable to bark create a bond and empathetic relationship between the two?

Chloe and Boomer instinctively understand and connect with one another, because they are dealing with similar problems. Chloe immediately recognizes Boomer’s inability to yip, but she isn’t judgmental. She accepts Boomer as he is, because his problem mirrors the ones she has making friends, speaking, and singing. Instead, Chloe bonds with Boomer and is selfless in her pursuit to find out about his problem, spending extra time with him, reading to him from her poetry notebook, and sharing her true feelings with him. This interaction builds a bond of trust between the two – a model of true friendship.

2. What do you want the children who read this book to learn?

My book tells the story of a yipless dog and a child whose stutter challenges her to face her fears making friends, expressing herself in speech, and fulfilling her dream of being able to sing. In the process of growing, the dog and she have to contend with self-doubt at pivotal points and rise above them. Learning to trust one’s instincts and others, teamwork (seeing self through others) and growing self-confidence are lessons in my book.

3. How did you become interested in writing children’s stories, and why did you choose this topic?

I have a great-nephew and great-niece to whom “Finding My Yip” is dedicated. I wanted to write this book and series as a part of an artistic legacy. I had once read a man should plant a tree, have a son (child), and write a book. As a woman, I have accomplished two of these, so writing books for children substitutes for having a child in my case. Additionally, some of my strongest learning and definitive experiences were in my childhood. The freedom I experienced singing, dancing (being expressive), and reading took me out of the dysfunctional atmosphere in my home.

I chose the topic of stuttering because it inhibits full and free vocal expression. As a child, I found it difficult to express what I was feeling, although I didn’t have a stutter. However, inside of me, I felt that I couldn’t be me, because I knew I most certainly would be punished if I did.

4. When you were a child dreaming of becoming a singer, how did your father’s lack of support affect you?

My father, who had lived through the Depression when his family lost everything, was afraid I wouldn’t be able to earn a living as a singer. The more he tried to discourage me with the threat of not supporting me financially in college, the more I became determined to study what I loved. My mother stood by me in my decision to pursue music.

5. How did you first become interested in singing, and what are the important qualities for a professional singer to possess?

My first singing experiences as a child were in church, but I loved making up my own songs and dancing and singing by myself in my yard. I also studied piano and took tap and ballet classes. In high school, I sang in choir and became interested in opera after seeing a performance of The Barber of Seville. I borrowed some opera recordings from my cousin and fell deeply in love with the genre. I also began voice lessons the summer before my senior year. My high school had by then a dynamic choral director who took an interest in my voice and encouraged me to audition for music scholarships.

The great tenor Caruso once said that a singer has to have a big mouth, a good memory, and something in the heart. One of my former professors in graduate school who had had a professional singing career in Europe told me one has to have 10% talent and 90% perseverance. I would add work ethic, good musicianship, foreign languages (opera and art song), acting/dancing skills, and collegiality.

 

Uncover the hidden world of alchemy in WWII-era novel

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Female spy infiltrates a French brothel in epic story of war, alchemy, and love

ASHEVILLE, North Carolina –No magic is more powerful than the spell of love. And no enchantment can be more dangerous.

In Sarah C. Patten’s WWII-era novel, “The Measure of Gold” (Ashland Press, March 2, 2021), it is the fall of 1940 and Germany has just invaded France. Across the ocean, in Sweetwater, Tennessee, Penelope receives an urgent letter from her childhood friend, Naomie, urging her to Paris. Bereft from the loss of her widowed father, Penelope leaves her life and reunites with her lost friend. There, she meets Naomie’s brother, the brilliant, mad alchemist Fulcanelli and his mysterious apprentice Lucien.

As Penelope falls headlong into the esoteric world of alchemy and espionage, she is assigned to spy on the clients of a powerful French brothel. She listens, learns, and dances to seduce one of the most infamous murderers of World War II in a desperate calculation to save Lucien. Through the devastating magic of life, Penelope learns that alchemy has far more to do with the person than the element.

An epic story of betrayal and courage, “The Measure of Gold” showcases the heroine’s journey during wartime, and serves as a powerful reminder of what’s needed for us to transform from stone to pure gold.

“The Measure of Gold”
Sarah C. Patten | March 2, 2021 | Ashland Press | Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction
Paperback | ISBN: 978-1-7358082-0-8 | $14.99
eBook | ISBN: 978-1-7358082-1-5 | $9.99

“compelling… a powerful tribute to the brave women of the French Resistance”
– BlueInk Review

“poetic… a touching World War II novel that features both fantasies and cruel sacrifices”
– Foreword Clarion Reviews

About The Author

SARAH C. PATTEN: Sarah was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee and attended Cornell University where she earned her BA in English. She completed her MALS in Creative Writing at Dartmouth College.

She lives in Asheville, North Carolina with her husband and three kids. To learn more about Sarah’s life and work, please visit www.sarahcpatten.com.

 

In an interview, Sarah C. Patten can discuss:

  • Where the inspiration for “The Measure of Gold” came from
  • Which true historical accounts of female spies influenced this story
  • How she adapted the hero’s journey into a story of female resistance
  • How she conducted research for the novel, including reading books on alchemy, authored by famed alchemist Fulcanelli
  • Whether readers can expect to see more from Penelope in the future
  • What’s next for her on her literary journey

An Interview with Sarah C. Patten

1. Where did the inspiration for “The Measure of Gold” come from?

About ten years ago, I became interested in female spy stories from WWII. After all, hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, and these stories were incredible, filled with bravery, love, betrayal, revenge. But what I loved most about these women were how unexpected and heroic their lives were. They were couriers, farm girls from Iowa, Polish orphans, etc.. They all found their way into the Resistance through the most unexpected and unlikely paths. So about five years ago, I decided to write my own female spy story called The Measure of Gold. Imagine a woman from Eastern Tennessee who is raised by a French scientist/alchemist who becomes a spy in the French brothels and helps bring down one of the most infamous murderers of the war.

2. When writing Penelope’s character, were you influenced by true historical accounts of women in the resistance? If so, which accounts were most influential?

I love to read biographies, so the seeds for this novel started with historical accounts of women who had anonymously sacrificed their lives to fight against the Nazis. Though women represented 15-20% of the French Resistance fighters within the country, after the war, their stories quickly faded, overshadowed by the achievements of their male counterparts. Of the 1,036 members of the Resistance who were honored by Charles de Gaulle in the Order of Liberation, only six were women. Some of the women who inspired this novel were Virginia Hall (one of the wings of the Pentagon is named after her for her heroism and bravery in WWII), Krystyna Skarbek (aka Christine Granville), Josephine Baker, Noor Inayat Khan, Odette Sansom, just to name a few.

3. You researched alchemy for the writing of this novel, including reading books written by famed alchemist, Fulcanelli. What drew you to alchemy as a subject and what did you learn?

In writing this novel, I learned so much about so many unexpected things. Notre Dame plays a prominent role in my novel, so, in truth, my study of the Gothic architecture of Notre Dame led me to Fulcanelli and alchemy. In 1926, Fulcanelli wrote a book called “Le Mystère des Cathédrales” about the math and symbology found within the Gothic cathedrals of Europe. His belief was that the secrets of the universe were hiding within plain sight. Then, he vanished mysteriously. Some people question whether he ever existed at all. Fulcanelli’s story, like alchemy, carried all of the elements of mystery, magic, and suspense I wanted to cultivate within the book. The stories from WWII are endless because the war was so vast and horrible. The war was so many things at once. My journey from Notre Dame to alchemy, also led me to Isaac Newton. For scientists WWII was known as the “physicists’ war” because of the massive scientific race that was happening based upon Einstein and his contemporaries. In the novel, alchemy acts as a profound bridge between science and imagination, just as Notre Dame is a bridge between art and the divine.

4. Many war stories focus on men’s contributions. Was it difficult to pen a story with a heroine at the center? What do you hope readers will glean from Penelope’s story?

As a writer I am always interested in how a person behaves when no one is watching. During WWII, many of the able-bodied French men were held in the prisoner-of-war camps or sent to work in the German factories, so, in reality, Occupied France was in large part made up of women, children, and the elderly struggling to survive. At that time in society, women were largely overlooked. They could not even cast a vote in France until 1944. Yet, the heroines of WWII recognized that being underestimated and inconspicuous was a tactical advantage for them during the Occupation. It felt very natural for me to write a truly heroic story about a woman who uses that invisibility as her superpower. My heroine, Penelope (the same name as the wife of Odysseus), maneuvers and accomplishes her acts of greatness in the shadows. For me that is a raw and authentic type of heroism.

5. Can readers expect to see more from Penelope in the future?

I think Penelope’s story ends with WWII, however, the original manuscript was so vast that it broke into three parts. I am currently finishing my next two novels, born of that original manuscript, The Great Medicine Show, and Surcy Shoals.

Former DOJ victims expert’s book provides step-by-step method to approach trauma in the workplace

Posted on | by Marissa DeCuir

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Washington, D.C. – For 15 years, senior attorney Katharine Manning advised the Justice Department on working with victims in its most difficult cases, from child exploitation to terrorism to large-scale financial fraud. In doing so, she learned that when the crisis comes, and all of us will face a crisis eventually, we need the same things. “The Empathetic Workplace” (Feb. 16, 2021, HarperCollins Leadership) teaches readers the five steps to respond to trauma at work.

This critical resource gives managers, HR, and anyone who may come into contact with someone in trauma — including workplace violence, harassment, assault, bias, illness, addiction, fraud, bankruptcy, and more — the tools they need to be prepared for what lies ahead.

From top-tier managers at Fortune 500 companies to residence advisers in college dormitories to anyone else who may one day face a report of a traumatic experience at work, the most effective solutions are at your fingertips in this crucial guide for responding to trauma in the workplace. In a time that for many has resulted in a deluge of challenges — a worldwide pandemic, America’s racial reckoning, environmental disaster, and economic upheaval — this guide is needed more than ever.

“The Empathetic Workplace: 5 Steps to a Compassionate, Calm,
and Confident Response to Trauma on the Job”

Katharine Manning | Feb. 16, 2021 | HarperCollins Leadership | Business
Paperback | 9781400220021 | $19.99
Ebook | B08BZ1MVGG | $9.99

About the Author

KATHARINE MANNING has over 25 years’ experience training and consulting on trauma and victimization. As a senior attorney adviser with the Justice Department, for 15 years she counseled on victim rights in high-profile cases like the Boston Marathon bombing, the Pulse nightclub and South Carolina church shootings, the Charlottesville violence, Bernie Madoff, and the case against Olympic Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar. Now president of Blackbird, Manning helps organizations prepare for and respond to the challenges they face involving employees and members of the public in trauma. She has trained thousands of individuals on compliance with their responsibilities to victims, and she teaches a course on victim rights at American University. Prior to her government service, Manning was an attorney in private practice representing Fortune 500 companies in class actions, insurance, and media cases. Find her at www.katharinemanning.com.

Early praise for Katharine Manning and “The Empathetic Workplace”

“You cannot read this concise, thorough book without feeling immediately better prepared to respond to a crisis for the benefit of the organization, and for the benefit of the employee. Anyone responsible for the wellbeing of an organization and the people in it should read and implement the lessons Ms. Manning has shared from her extensive experience and research. This book will help its readers make workplaces better human spaces.”

— Kelsey Crowe, co-author of “There Is No Good Card for This”

“If you are a leader, responding to trauma is part of your job — a part of your job you’ve probably not been trained for. ‘The Empathetic Workplace’ will teach you how to take care of the person harmed, yourself, and your team. At any given time, but especially during Covid, at least one of your employees is likely experiencing trauma — illness, racism, sexual harassment, a daily barrage of microaggressions, financial strain. Your response can maximize the odds of recovery and build relationships that give work meaning.”

— Kim Scott, author of “Radical Candor”

“Katharine Manning’s ground-breaking book ‘The Empathetic Workplace’ is required reading for every leader from the CEO to the first-time manager. This book will shock you into awareness of the ‘silent’ enemy — trauma — which impacts individual and team performance in all organizations. Katharine’s 25 years of experience as a counselor, advocate and legal advisor, make this the most comprehensive book to address the trauma crisis that exists today. Add this book to your leadership toolbox immediately and put Katharine’s insights into action.”

— Leslie Grossman, Faculty Director, Executive Women’s Leadership,
The George Washington University, Center for Excellence in Public Leadership

In an interview, Katharine Manning can discuss:

  • Her experiences advising the Justice Department on working with victims
  • What is trauma and how should companies prepare for it
  • Creating a productive and healthy workplace environment
  • How to best communicate in moments of crisis without losing your cool
  • The current mental health crisis in America
  • Why it is essential to lead with empathy

An Interview with Katharine Manning

1.  What does trauma mean and how does it show up in the workplace?

People often think the term “trauma” only applies to combat veterans and sexual assault survivors. I have a broader take on it. I think of trauma as a psychological injury that affects performance. It can be caused by anything from a long-term illness to bias or harassment to violence to financial ruin. As we’ve seen this year, it can certainly be caused by a pandemic, by witnessing the murder of a Black man by police, and by losing your home to a wildfire. Trauma shows up at work in lost productivity, absenteeism, decreased engagement and turnover.

2. How should we respond when receiving a story of trauma?

There are five steps we should take to help the person feel understood and supported: Listen, which means active listening with an aim to understand; Acknowledge, or recognize the person and the story he has shared with you; Share information to return to the person in trauma a measure of control; Empower with resources so that the person can take next steps on his own; and Return later to check in, to make sure the person doesn’t need additional information or resources, and to show that you continue to be a support. These steps can be remembered in the moment when someone in trauma comes to you through their acronym, LASER.

3. What resources should managers know about to support their employees?

Managers should definitely be familiar with security, mental health, and flexible work options in their workplace. In addition, calling 211 (or 311 where 211 is not available) can be a great option for more one-off issues (suicide, child abuse, addiction). My website, www.blackbird-dc.com, has a one-pager with more resources managers should know.

4. How does a compassionate work environment increase productivity?

When we support others through a crisis, we build strong bonds of trust, which leads to increased loyalty, productivity, citizenship behaviors, and better communication. A study of group dynamics at Google showed that the healthiest and most productive teams were those with a high degree of psychological safety, and that psychological safety was enhanced when team members could open up about difficult experiences and support each other through them.

5. How have you seen COVID-19 affecting people’s mental health?

The statistics on this are pretty staggering:

  • Last year, 1 in 12 Americans reported having symptoms of an anxiety disorder. This year, it’s 1 in 3.
  • A majority of Americans believe that the pandemic is taking a toll on their mental health; among African-Americans, it’s more than two-thirds. It isn’t only African-Americans who are being disproportionately affected, though: There have been more than 2,100 reports of hate crimes against Asian-Americans since the coronavirus began — a jump of more than 1900%.
  • More than half of essential workers have experienced mental health issues in recent months, and more than a fifth have contemplated suicide.

Most of us have seen or experienced the effect of this increased stress, depression, and anxiety in a lost ability to focus, memory lapses, decreased energy, shorter tempers, and more. While this is happening, we are more separate than ever and our social skills are deteriorating. I’m so glad this book is coming out now to help workplaces manage the mental health challenges we are facing with compassion and confidence.

6. What inspired you to write the book, and what do you hope readers gain?

I was so inspired by the #MeToo Movement’s focus on encouraging survivors to speak up, but I felt what was missing was a corresponding focus on encouraging those who received those stories to listen and support the survivors. I also knew from personal experience how hard it can be to listen to a story of trauma, and from my work how prevalent trauma is in our society. I saw so many workplaces struggling with how to receive stories of trauma and be supportive while balancing the need to protect themselves from legal claims. Through my book, I hope to share with people the tools to listen and provide substantive support to those in crisis. This helps the listener, the workplace and, most importantly, the survivor.