The Long and Winding Road

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome author Dena Weigel. Today, Dena shares the long and winding road to her writing career and her new release, The Byzantine Cross.

Here’s Dena!

Briefly describe your first act.

Thank you for including me in your Second Act Series and allowing me to share my writing!

It’s been a long and winding road to a writing career!

During my twenties and thirties, I was rudderless. I went to college, received a Bachelor of Fine Arts, then traveled overseas to study art and culture with students from all over the nation. After the program’s conclusion, I arrived home with a head full of new possibilities for my future. I ended up in a corporate marketing job by default.

After ten years in the office, I took my marketing experience on the road, freelance blogging for fifteen years for businesses, government entities, and nonprofits. I also attended writing classes, conferences, and writing groups. This was great, but it left little creative headspace for my own writing projects. One year ago, I reached a goal of landing a job in the publishing industry with a position at a book review company, and now I’m surrounded by people who are so generous with their knowledge.

What triggered the need for change?

I floundered through my corporate jobs for far too long before realizing I wrote at a level that executives could use but freelancing left me with no creative energy to finish my novel. So, I eventually ended my contracts and worked with a developmental editor to complete the story and get it to a publisher. I knew that if I didn’t go after this dream, I’d regret it—so why wait? I jumped in with both feet hanging onto hope for dear life!

Where are you now?

Last year I landed a job with a book review company and have achieved another goal of leaving the tech industry and finding my way into the writing/publishing business. I get to talk about books all day long!

Do you have advice for anyone planning to pursue a second act?

Don’t wait to start. You never know what’s around the corner, and time slips away so fast. Those things you want to do in life may be out of reach sooner than you think, and you don’t want to live with regret. Even if you fail, you learn—and that’s not failure.

Also, ask for guidance and help if you feel it will get you to your goal. People are more often than not excited to help others and share their knowledge.

Any affirmations or quotations you wish to share?
“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” – Albert Einstein

Blurb

Former OSS spy, Sarah Kraft, thought she’d left her dangerous past behind in 1950s New York City. But when her former boss tracks her down and convinces her to accept a new mission-steal the ancient Byzantine Cross from inside the Kremlin for the CIA-she’s dragged back into the world of espionage. Once in Moscow, she’s promised the aid of a Russian double agent, Nicolai Rodzyanko, but things aren’t as they seem. Someone hired a hitman to eliminate Sarah, and she and Nicolai realize they’re not the only ones after the mysterious cross. As the two dig deeper into the history behind the oldest known biblical relic, they discover it’s far more than a simple artifact. Sarah starts questioning the motives of her former boss and the agency she once trusted, and when supernatural forces come into play, she must make a decision that could change the course of history.

Author Bio and Links

Dena Weigel was born and raised in Western Kansas, where her active curiosity stoked her growing imagination.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, she studied art and culture in over thirty countries before settling in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and building a career writing for businesses and non-profits around the world.

Dena enjoys hiking with her husband and daughter, painting, and relaxing on her deck with a cup of coffee and a great book. She is currently working on the next Sarah Kraft novel, The Argentinian Affair.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Trials Reveal Your Character

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

On Wednesdays, I share posts, fables, songs, poems, quotations, TEDx Talks, cartoons, and books that have inspired and motivated me on my writing journey. I hope these posts will give writers, artists, and other creatives a mid-week boost.

Here’s a thought-provoking reflection from international speaker and bestselling author Joyce Meyer:

Trials “try” us, and tests “test” us. Most of the time, the purpose of them is to show us who we really are, to reveal character in us.

We can think all kinds of good thoughts about ourselves, but until we are put to the test, we don’t know whether those things have become realities in us or not. We may consider ourselves generous, honest, or deeply committed to a particular truth or ideal, but the depths of these dynamics only reveals itself when we’re under pressure. When we go through trials, we learn whether or not we really have the character and commitment we think we have.

I believe it’s very important for us to really know ourselves, tests are good for us because they affirm strengths and reveal weaknesses. Don’t be afraid to face your weaknesses. God’s strength is available to you specifically for them.

I must say that before my trials worked steadfastness and patience into my life, they brought out many other negative qualities, mindsets, and attitudes I didn’t know I had. One reason God allows us to go through tests and trials is so the hidden things in our hearts can be exposed. Until they are exposed, we cannot do anything about them. But once we see them, we can begin to face them and ask God to help us.

God does not allow us to go through difficult times because he likes to see us suffer. He uses them for us to recognize our need for Him. Everything you go through ultimately does work out for your good because it makes you stronger and builds your endurance; it develops godly character; it helps you to know yourself and to be able to deal with things at an honest level with God and take care of those things so you can reach spiritual maturity.

Source: Trusting God Day by Day by Joyce Meyer

When the Crisis Wins

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

On Wednesdays, I share posts, fables, songs, poems, quotations, TEDx Talks, cartoons, and books that have inspired and motivated me on my writing journey. I hope these posts will give writers, artists, and other creatives a mid-week boost.

In her latest release, 1000 Words: A Writer’s Guide to Staying Creative, Focused, and Productive All Year Round, novelist Jami Attenberg shares her advice and that of over 50 other writers.

Here’s an inspiring essay from Jami Attenberg:

I can sit here and write about the pandemic and say it was an extraordinary historical moment where many of our lives shifted if not only in terms of physical or mental health or relationships but also in how and where we work. It happened on a grand scale. But there will always be one life event or another that can distract you. Be prepared for this. I don’t live in fear of this but merely accept it as the truth. No one lives an entire life without a crisis at some point or another. And this may distract you from your daily practice.

After a family member was diagnosed with dementia, every time I visited them, I found it threw me off my work for a few days, if not longer. Eventually I began to find myself rushing to finish work before a family visit so I wouldn’t fall behind afterward. Because I knew I would need time to decompress, and I would not be able to be my best creative self. I thought, There is nothing I can do to change this moment of time in all our lives, and I need to be as present as possible. Something had to give, and work was it. I didn’t like how it affected me, but I had no choice. I, like you, am only human.

What I do not recommend is being angry with yourself for not getting your work done. None of us need to make ourselves feel bad twice. All we would be doing is building yet another hurdle for ourselves. Most of us need to feel comfortable, relaxed, and at ease in order to work, or at least able to trick our brains into feeling that way for a period of time. Being in a moment of crisis, and then being angry at yourself for being in that moment of crisis, will make it even harder to get work done. Everything takes time. And the work will be waiting for you when you are ready for it.

The crisis is temporary. Your work will be there for you forever.

Source: 1000 Words, p. 191

Blurb Blitz: Teacups and Temptations

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome Wild Rose Press author Kate Ellington. Today, Kate shares her new release, Teacups and Temptations.

Blurb

Molly Merriwether readily accepts an invitation to Waverly Hall, eager for adventure and amusement with her best friend. She never expected to be left unchaperoned with three intriguing young gentlemen for weeks.

Roger Bailey, recuperating in more ways than one, avoids Molly until her kindness and humor tempt him to deepen their acquaintance.

Molly lands in one unlikely escapade after the next with Roger and soon considers him a friend—perhaps more—but the barriers he puts up make it impossible to truly know him. Has she only imagined those tender looks in his eyes?

For a chance at love, Molly will need to bare her innermost self and trust someone more deeply than she’s ever dreamed possible.

Excerpt

Molly finished her tea and turned to Caroline. “Perhaps we should take some time to discuss our options. Alone.”

“Yes, I think we’d better,” Caroline said, setting her cup down.

Benedict rose. “We’ll step out so you can talk.”

Fred settled deeper into his chair as if hoping not to be noticed, but after a sharp look from Benedict stood and followed him out of the room. Mr. Bailey took Penny by the collar and left, closing the door behind him.

As soon as it clicked shut, Molly replenished their teacups. “Would you ever have dreamed we’d find ourselves in such a pickle?”

“Absolutely not. I imagine this means we need to leave.” Caroline sighed a sigh that sounded like it had been waiting years to get out.

Molly lifted one shoulder. “I don’t know…we’re already here and, as Fred said, it isn’t as though we’re alone in the house.”

“I’ve the feeling Fred would say anything to get us to stay. He seems the type of man to enjoy bending the rules.”

“I have the same feeling.” After glancing at the door, Molly whispered, “What do you think of Benedict?”

Caroline shifted on the sofa so she was facing Molly. “It’s too soon to say.”

“Do you think we should move to the inn?” Molly held her breath as she awaited Caroline’s answer.

Author Bio and Links

Kate grew up in a woodsy New England town where summer days at the lake seemed to last forever. She read her first historical romance at age eleven when a teacher challenged her to find a book in the library written by an author she’d never heard of. Thus began a life-long love of love stories.

After graduating from college, she settled in the Pacific Northwest, where she currently resides with her family.

Kate wrote her first romance when she was sixteen, then set her pen down for years until another story floated into her head out of the clear blue sky. She jotted it down, just for fun, but soon it took on a life of its own.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon Buy Link

Giveaway

Kate Ellington will be awarding a $20 Amazon gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Find out more here.

Follow Kate on the rest of her Goddess Fish tour here.

New Release: The 13th Letter

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

A new anthology from the Mesdames and Messieurs of Mayhem…

Blurb

M is for Mesdames, Messieurs, mystery…and murder!

M is the thirteenth letter of the alphabet, and it begins so many wicked words: malice, Machiavelli, mayhem and of course, murder. But it also heads up mischief, melody and madcap mystery. And what could better suit the Mesdames and Messieurs of Mayhem? After all, thirteen is our lucky number!

Welcome to our sixth anthology, a book of 22 deviously crafted tales based on each author’s twisted take on the letter “M” or literally, a thirteenth letter. Most stories are light-hearted to counter our troubled times but a few do shade into the dark. Enjoy them all and remember:

The Mesdames and Messieurs of Mayhem is a collective of established Canadian crime fiction authors and talented new writers of the genre. Follow the links in these pages to learn more about our novels and stories.

Buy Links

Amazon CA | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon AU

Mesdames of Mayhem Links

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Make Optimal Use of the Available Options

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

On Wednesdays, I share posts, fables, songs, poems, quotations, TEDx Talks, cartoons, and books that have inspired and motivated me on my writing journey. I hope these posts will give writers, artists, and other creatives a mid-week boost.

A long-time fan of bestselling authors and coaches Marc and Angel Chernoff, I look forward to reading their emails and blog posts. Here’s an excerpt from a recent post:

Most people get irritated by those who seem “too optimistic,” but this is often just an unfortunate misinterpretation of the difference between an optimist and an idealist. An optimist is really just a positive realist who is neither naive, nor in denial, nor blind to the realities of life.

An optimist believes in the optimal usage of all the available options no matter how narrow the supply. As a result, optimistic people are able to better see the bigger picture. They can more accurately visualize and mange the present possibilities. For comparison’s sake: An idealist focuses only on the absolute best aspects of situations, a pessimist sees no positive possibilities at all, and an optimist strives to see all the possibilities so they can find the best possible option among them.

So, when picking lemons off a lemon tree, an idealist reaches for the ripest looking lemon and expects it to be the tastiest, a pessimist settles for whichever one is closest, while an optimist picks all the lemons in sight and makes lemonade.

Note: I highly recommend subscribing to Marc & Angel’s website.

Blurb Blitz: Georgia’s Folly

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome editor and author Deborah Chase. Today, Deborah shares her new release, Geogia’s Folly.

Blurb

For fans of “Antiques Roadshow” and “American Pickers” – this is the one for you!

Beginning at a cluttered flea market and ending at a glittering art auction, Georgia’s Follytells the compelling story that blends past and present and the search for a valuable and illusive antique. Chloe Bishop grew up in foster care. She loves shopping at flea markets, picking up family heirlooms like old pottery or vintage furniture to fill in for the family and home she never had. As Chloe walks through the Brooklyn Flea Market, she stumbles upon the diary of Miss Georgia Potter, a young woman who had lived in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania during the Civil War. The yellowed pages reveal the impact of the war on daily life and spotlights the role of women including Harriet Tubman, Clara Barton and Louisa May Alcott. Like Chloe, Georgia Potter was a passionate collector and her diary lists her collection of valuable antiques—including the Holy Grail of 18th century furniture—a Chippendale settee. Well versed in antiques, Chloe is aware that There are only five known examples and a sixth settee would be worth more than $4 million.

Chloe immediately contacts Ben Thompson, the man who sold her the diary. Ben is a picker who drives his RV across America, searching for collectibles to sell to dealers. He is estranged from his wealthy, prominent family who cringe at his chosen career. Ben agrees to take her along to search for the valuable and iconic settee. As Ben and Chloe head to Gettysburg, they are unaware that Gregor Petrov, a shady antiques dealer and Harrison Kent, a respected but unscrupulous art expert are trailing them.

The search for the settee takes Chloe and Ben on fast paced journey from the Gettysburg battlefields to the 18th century street of artisans in Philadelphia to a historic mansion on the banks of the Hudson River. Traveling together in the small RV, Ben and Chloe draw closer. In the confines of the RV, embroiled in an unimaginable quest, Chloe confides that she is also in search for the father she never knew while Ben struggles to explain his complicated family to a woman who never had one.

In a thrilling ending, the rare Chippendale settee is not Chloe’s only valuable discovery.

Excerpt

Chole Bishop felt her pulse quicken as she walked to the jumbled tables at the Brooklyn Flea market. Under the soaring arches of the massive bridge, the piles of pottery, jewelry and tacks of vintage clothing sparkled with the promise of discovery. Every time she walked into a thrift shop or flea market, she remembered stories of the discovery of a long-lost Picasso or a rhinestone ring turned out to be a flawless diamond. But she really wasn’t treasure hunting—she just loved finding what she called “pieces of history.”

She never knew what she was going to find, but she knew it when she saw it. And there it was, as if it had been patiently waiting for her. Next to a vintage tin sign for motor oil and under a cracked ironstone pitcher, she could see the trim edges of a lady’s lap desk. Chloe smiled to herself. I have always wanted ne and here it is under the arches of the Brooklyn Bridge. She walked over to the table, gently removed the pitcher and placed it on the table.

The lap desk was clearly not a family heirloom. It was a very basic lap desk with a faded, stained finish. She opened the lap desk and smiled to see the worn well-worn, blue felt padding. The top and bottom offlaps were intact- a great sign for a well-used lap top more than 150 years old. Two small partitions on the bottom were stained from the ink bottles they once held. The bottom section was empty except for two vintage ladies’ hair pins but the top lid was jammed. A lady often kept personal letters there and Chloe was instantly curious. What secret romances could the lap desk hold?

Author Bio and Links

I grew up in a family filled with art and antiques. On the high end, my uncle, William Lincer, lead violist at the New York Philharmonic, was an art lover whose collection was sold at Sotheby’s. On the low end, her father, writer Allen Chase took me to flea markets and estate sales. He sparked a lifelong fascination with tales of lost treasures that ranged from plundered Egyptian tombs to trainloads of art stolen by the Nazis. It was this love of history and antiques that inspired my first novel, Georgia’s Folly

I was a founding editor of the Berkeley Wellness Newsletter and the author of 12 books including The Medically Based No-Nonsense Beauty Book (Alfred Knopf), Extend Your Life Diet (Pocket Books), Fruit Acids for Fabulous Skin (St Martin’s Press), Every Bride is Beautiful (Morrow), and with her husband Dr Neil Schachter co-author of Life and Breath (Doubleday) and The Good Doctor’s Guide to Colds and Flu (Harper). The books have been a selection of the Book of the Month Club and my articles have appeared in Ladies Home Journal, Self, Glamour, Redbook, Family Circle, Parents and Good Housekeeping.

I am a graduate of Bronx High School of Science and a winner of the Westinghouse Science Talent Search. A graduate of New York University I earned a degree with a dual major in journalism and history.

A native New Yorker, I like to spend my weekends at an upstate home where a big kitchen and an endless supply of estate sales indulge my dual passions for cooking and collecting.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon Buy Link

Giveaway

Deborah Chase will be awarding a $50 Visa card to a randomly drawn winner. Find out more here.

Follow Deborah on the rest of her Goddess Fish here.

Excerpt Tour: Flamingo Café

Posted on by Joanne Guidoccio

I’m happy to welcome author Jackie Kang. Today, Jackie shares her new release, Flamingo Café.

Blurb

A storm is brewing off the coast of Florida, but chaos has already made landfall for four women of Palm Beach society. Abigail, a self-appointed Cuban princess and queen of the WAGs, suddenly finds herself penniless and on the streets. Claudia, a Greek entrepreneur and CEO of a prestigious international clothing line, is entering her golden years only to realize secrets can weigh you down. Cassy, a barista and owner of the Flamingo Cafe, is doing her best to recover from a tragic past. Meanwhile her best friend, Bri, also harbors a secret: a romantic tet-a-tet with Cassy’s brother Nick. Each woman has played her part in a society obsessed with appearances and secrecy for years. So, when Hurricane Odette blows through town, exposing those secrets, it’s no surprise their lives collide like a clap of thunder. Only one thing is certain: if they don’t work together, Mother Nature will teach them the hardest lessons of their lives.

Excerpt

I close my eyes and savor the calm moment, counting to ten and listening for the sound of the espresso machine whirling to life before opening my eyes and sprinkling my hands with the flour needed for the cutting board.

Looking for a distraction from my thoughts, and before getting started, I reach over and switch on the small television we keep in the back, quickly setting the channel to WESH 2 news. Then, with the soft hum of the reporters in the background, I prepare to get back to the work of baking pastries. Ignoring the oven scars taking up entirely too much real estate across my knuckles and wrists, I begin rolling the dough for the mini mango-Key lime pie tarts.

The simple act of kneading the dough is enough to lift my spirits, and it’s not long before I lose myself in the rhythm of the baking. Measuring ingredients, setting the mixer, sliding the pans into the oven—each task completed working ten times better than any therapy session. The stress of the morning melts off me like the butter in the pan as the routine unfolds.

My forearms are burning as I roll the dough with more force than is necessary, flattening it repeatedly against the counter when there is a buzzing in my back pocket. Without wiping my hands on the towel, I snatch the phone from my jeans.

Nick.

I have to swipe my floury finger across the screen two times before the phone finally accepts the call.

“Nick, what took you so long?” I practically shout into the phone, now on speaker.

“Dude, Cassy…” Nick drags the words out, like he’s just woken up, checked his missed calls, and decided to call back even though he’s still half asleep. “Why so early?”

Author Bio and Links

When not spending her time creating make-believe people and places, Jackie Kang lives in Kirkland, WA with her very real family of 1 husband, 2 dogs, and 3 children. In her past life, Jackie has held jobs as a personal trainer, a spa manager, a dental assistant, and an office manager, but her true love is writing and sharing a well-crafted story. Jackie is a member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon Buy Link

Giveaway

Jackie Kang will be awarding a $20 Amazon/Barnes & Noble gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Find out more here.

Follow Jackie on the rest of her Goddess Fish tour here.