BOOK INFORMATION

TITLE – Love and Happiness
AUTHOR – Ben Burgess Jr.
GENRE – African American Fiction/ Urban Fiction
PUBLICATION DATE – April 24th 2015
LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 240 Pages
PUBLISHER – Self Published (CreateSpace/IngramSpark)
COVER ARTIST – Leah Friday

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BOOK SYNOPSIS

Karen has it all: a handsome husband, beautiful twin daughters, a lovely home and a great job. Karen also has a secret; she’s cheating on her husband, with not one man, but two. On the outside her life seems perfect, but on the inside Karen feels neglected, bored and unappreciated. Yearning for affection and excitement, she falls into the arms of first Raheem and then Tyrell. Out of fear of losing her husband and breaking up her family, Karen ends the affairs but things don’t turn out how she planned. When Karen’s dirty secrets are revealed she must fight to keep her family together. Chris is doing all he can to hold his marriage together. He loves Karen but she grows more distant every day. When she starts coming home later and later, he suspects she is being unfaithful. When Chris accidentally takes her cell phone what he finds changes their lives forever. When tragedy strikes, Karen must decide if she should sacrifice her happiness for her husband’s love, and Chris wonders if he should stay with Karen because he still loves her despite her infidelity. But if they do stay together, will they ever find love and happiness again? Sexy and relatable, insightful and inspiring, Love and Happiness shows us both sides of Chris and Karen's story, and reminds us that sometimes to have it all, you must first lose it all.

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BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US

AMAZON KINDLE UK

BARNES & NOBLES NOOK

ITUNES

GOODREADS

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EXCERPT

When we got home, I decided to put all our bickering aside and make love to my husband. While Chris pleased me sexually, our busy work schedules had reduced our lovemaking to mundane quickies. I knew if I was bored, he must be too.

To spice things up, I’d read magazines, watched porn, and gathered tips from my friends. He loves lacy lingerie, so I wore my black bustier, black French-cut panties, and fishnet stockings. I lit scented candles and put on soft jazz to set the ambiance in the bedroom. Chris walked in. 

“Damn!” he said. 

He tugged on my lingerie to take it off. I couldn’t hide my smile. His hands hungrily roamed my body. 

“Easy, baby. Enjoy what you’re looking at.” 

I felt self-conscious as he groped me because his earlier comment about me looking chunky, kept replaying in my mind. 

We made love. I used a lot of the new ideas I learned to spice things up, but he didn’t seem to notice. Chris always has the decency to make sure I cum, but again we ended up having another quickie because he had to wake up early the next morning. He rolled over on his side and went to sleep almost immediately after. I frowned, shook my head and stared at the ceiling. Was it me? Is this how marriage was supposed to be? Had we both gotten too comfortable? 

I decided I’d start going to the gym and get a personal trainer. I hoped working with a trainer would change me enough that even Chris would have to say something positive about it. I didn’t imagine how much it would change me.

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AUTHOR BIO

Ben Burgess Jr is the author of the award winning novels "Monster", "Wounded", the poetry book "Times Have Changed and Life is Strange" and the new novel "Love and Happiness" He is an active performer of spoken word poetry. Ben Burgess Jr uses his love of writing to inspire and influence youths to strive for what they believe in, and to never give up on their dreams. His poetry book "Times Have Changed and Life is Strange" and his novel "Monster" are currently used in schools on the lower east side of Manhattan. Ben Burgess has a BA degree in Business Management, and a MA degree in Educational Leadership. He is the proud father of his daughter Jaelynn and is active in trying to improve urban neighborhoods and communities. facebook.com/BenBurgessJr Twitter: Ben_Burgess_Jr

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AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE 

WEBSITE / BLOG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER 

GOOGLE+ | PINTEREST | GOODREADS

SHELFARI

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GIVEAWAY PRIZES

(5) Five paperback books to (5) selected winners.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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This tour has been organized & hosted by

Review of "Tis But A Dream" Romantic Novella by Samna Ghani

I confess that I was never a great romance reader until I started working with ace romance writer J Kahele. Before that, I stuck to books written from a masculine perspective. We wrote a book together that we classed contemporary romance, although admittedly she looked after much of the romance side and I did the comedy and action. Although we did swap roles at times and I found myself writing some romance. I came into contact with the very talented romance writer Samna Ghani and it is my pleasure to honestly review some of her works.

Well, I gave her 5 stars for her delightful novella “One Of Those Days” and because I liked “'Tis But A Dream” even more, again I give max points. Beautifully written and I confess highly moving, there were tears in my eyes by the end. Samna creates beautiful characters that you are rooting for. Although her work has a fairytale element there is a realism to her plots, in that her portraits of the best and the worst of human nature are spot on. Snow Donovan obtains a good job as Assistant Editor for Healthplus. She instantly falls for the handsome CEO Richard Wilder, constantly going to pieces around him. She is very good at her job but her hostile line manager, Cindy Shaw, makes her life a misery. Cindy gives Snow impossible deadlines and constant criticism. Richard is supportive but detached. Snow feels overpowering emotions and feelings for Richard, but they appear not to be reciprocated.

This is vivid, entertaining writing with the all important feel-good factor. If Cindy represents all that is bad in human beings, Snow and Richard represent the good and decency all humans are capable of. An accomplished chick-flick, I recommend this to my fellow men; you won't go wrong with this as a guide for your dealings with matters of the heart. There is a kindness and benevolence in Samna's writing and I was enriched by engaging with this charming tale.  

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23545805-tis-but-a-dream?ac=1  

http://www.amazon.com/Tis-but-Dream-Samna-Ghani-ebook/dp/B00P7284KO/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_1

My novel Serendipity free to download until the 12th April!

Go to Amazon kindle and you can download my novel 'Serendipity' for free. It's funny, dramatic and lots of fun!

http://www.amazon.com/Serendipity-James-Duncan-ebook/dp/B00L02IID8/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_1

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Serendipity-James-Duncan-ebook/dp/B00L02IID8/ref=sr_1_15?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1428682586&sr=1-15&keywords=Serendipity

Take a Look at The Stunning Cover of

The Unraveling of Shelby Forrest

by Donna Friess

Title: The Unraveling of Shelby Forrest

Author: Donna Friess

Genre: Women's Fiction > Contemporary Women >Domestic Life >Parenting & Relationships > Adoption

"As someone who has adopted children, I found this emotionally charged, complex first novel, written by award winning author, Donna Friess, draws you in immediately and holds you in its' thrall from the first page to the last. The author explores the grief, guilt and pain of giving up a baby for adoption and the secrets that can tear apart a marriage." Leanne A., CA

My review of Façade by J Kahele

As promised, I am reading and reviewing again. I introduce you to 'Façade' a wonderful novel by the equally wonderful J. Kahele. We have written a book together, 'Crazy On You' and we are now writing the sequel. Our collaboration has been a great success; somehow our styles compliment each other and working together is a delight. Obviously I love her work, you wouldn't believe how versatile and prolific she is as a writer. Probably best known as a romance writer she can actually nail any genre. She has recently released Façade's sequel.  So to the review...

Another brilliant romantic tale from J. Kahele, this book has it all; romance, drama, intrigue, (very) steamy sex, comedy, and a realism that swings from dizzying highs to crashing lows. It is escapist romance at its best, it will tug at your heartstrings and you will no doubt recognise at least an aspect of yourself in the two main characters of Liam and Ally.

Although I am very different to him, I saw that I share many of Liam's traits, maybe some I have left in the past and others I don't act out upon, the important thing is, he was a character I could relate to. So incredibly handsome and successful people can be as insecure as me! The book is called 'Facade' and is about the many masks we wear; reality is not what it appears to be. Handsome, powerful, successful, has his pick of gorgeous women - Liam Sheldon wears a confident mask befitting his status and envied lifestyle. However, this turns out to all be a sham. His former fiancée, Kate, (a nasty piece of work) betrayed and cheated on him. It broke his heart and he only pulled through by focusing on career and success. He has been terrified to fall in love again and this he avoids until he meets Ally.

Ally is a beautiful, feisty young woman, he first encounters in a very funny scene when he nearly runs her over. At first they despise each other, but keep meeting each other, as it turns out that Ally is one of his employees. Ally is feisty, spirited, with a hot temper, and she won't hold back when something angers her. Liam is an arrogant control freak. But they both turn out to be genuine and kind-hearted people, both deeply hurt in their previous relationships. They are drawn to one another. They begin a tempestuous, passionate, on-off relationship - where they constantly hurt one another, ironically, caused by their own insecurity and jealousy. Will they ultimately stay together or will they part? Find out for yourselves, the ending is astonishing and powerful.

The wonderful paradox of 'Facade' is that although it is about the masks people wear, how we are constantly deceived by one another, Liam and Ally share a love that is real. They love each other, confounding themselves, with an intensity and heartfelt sincerity that could last them their whole lives. They perpetually remove their masks for one another to reveal their true selves - vulnerable and very human. The destructive streak within them is the façade. Liam's mantra that “Success is built on greatness not weakness!” is one that actually brings him emptiness. The only thing that is real is his love for Ally. I liked Liam and Ally because although they could be infuriating they were so genuine.

I totally enjoyed this bitter-sweet romance. J Kahele writes with a humour that is so funny because it has its roots in reality. If you like your sex served with unreserved pure sensuality, then this book will delight you. J Kahele is one of the most skilled interpreters of this much loved activity. Highly enjoyable writing. Yes, I have written a book with J. Kahele, which I think reinforces my personal endorsement of this novel and admiration of its many merits. J Kahele is a simply superb writer and delivers yet another entertaining, provocative and accomplished novel.

http://www.amazon.com/Facade-J-Kahele-ebook/dp/B00PZCM3MG/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1427560476&sr=1-1&keywords=facade+j+kahele

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Facade-J-Kahele-ebook/dp/B00PZCM3MG/ref=sr_1_10?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1427560554&sr=1-10&keywords=Facade

Take a Look at the Beautiful Cover for The Tramp

Title: The Tramp (The Bound Chronicles Book 1)

Genre: Mystery, Thriller &Suspense > Supernatural > Fantasy > Paranormal & Urban

Author: Sarah Wathen

Cover: Sarah Wathen

Release Date: April 13, 2015

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Book Description

When John was seven, he found Candy dancing in the neighboring yard wearing a yellow polka-dot bikini and red rain galoshes, splashing and dancing and singing at the top of her lungs. She saved his throat from getting ripped out by her grandma’s guard dog. Good thing she did, too. It was John who raised the alarm that day, when the man who smiled with his mouth but not his eyes drove off with Candy in a cloud of dust. The police stopped whatever might have happened next in a seedy motel—a place Candy doesn’t dare remember. John rescued her, creating a bond between two friends strong enough to awaken…something.

Years later, John and Candy begin to suspect something more sinister lurking amidst the days of football glory and the nights of clandestine rendezvous. John discovers disturbing symbols from the ancient tribes indigenous to the area in his history textbook, in a local cave system, and in his very dreams. Candy uncovers a family history that is more colorful than she knew. If shades of black are colorful.

If only the two friends could foresee the danger looming before them. For another something, one much more dangerous than the first, is waking up to continue the cycle.Murder forces everyone out of sunny valley torpor, and Candy realizes that more than acquaintance connects her with the killer. When a corpse is found, gutted as if for ritual, she knows that whatever evil has overtaken her hometown is moving forward. She will have to exorcise the haunting herself—though she has no idea how—and she will need John’s predestined help to do it. Candy will have to face the memories of that seedy motel room first. At least she finally understands the power she never knew she had—a link to her departed mother and a line of healers shrouded in pre-history.

About the Author

Sarah Wathen is an artist turned author. She was trained in Classical Painting at the University of Central Florida, and received her Master’s in Fine Art from Parsons School of Design in New York City. If Florida was where she discovered her passion, New York was the place she found her voice. “Writing a book was my obvious next step, once I realized I’d been trying to tell stories with pictures for years,” she says about transitioning from visual artist to novelist. “Painting with words is even more fun than painting with oil.” Sarah lives in Florida with her husband, son, and at least a dozen imaginary friends from her novels. A painter at heart, her books incorporate art judicially, both in narrative content and supporting materials. Her characters are derived from the people and places that have influenced her own life—at least one beloved pet makes it into every book—but the stories they live will take you places you have never imagined, and won’t want to leave.

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James Duncan - updates and latest news and book deals

Hello, sorry I have been a bit quiet of late. I will be reviewing four new books over the next two weeks on this blog. Currently reading at breakneck speed and enjoying every minute of it!

I am writing the sequel to 'Crazy On You' with J Kahele. We are both delighted with it at the moment.

Lastly, my three kindle books are rather competitively priced. Check out the links and if you like what you see...well, be my guest! Catch up with you again soon. Thank you for your continued support of my reviews.

http://www.amazon.com/Crazy-You-Archie-Isabella-Book-ebook/dp/B00SXOLIE2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426784985&sr=8-1&keywords=crazy+on+you

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Crazy-You-Archie-Isabella-Book-ebook/dp/B00SXOLIE2/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1426785082&sr=1-1&keywords=Crazy+On+You+%28Archie+and+Isabella+Book+1%29

http://www.amazon.com/Serendipity-James-Duncan-ebook/dp/B00L02IID8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1426785168&sr=8-2&keywords=serendipity+james+duncan

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Serendipity-James-Duncan-ebook/dp/B00L02IID8/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1426785233&sr=1-1&keywords=Serendipity+james+duncan

http://www.amazon.com/Exmoor-Yarnies-Making-Me-ebook/dp/B00K3TYY64/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1426785307

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Exmoor-Yarnies-Making-Me-ebook/dp/B00K3TYY64/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1426785375&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Exmoor+Yarnies%3A+The+Making+Of+Me

One Of Those Days by Samna Ghani - touching, funny, tender rom-com.

This is a charming, beautifully written, funny romance that cheered my heart immensely, Elizabeth, a gorgeous young woman, smart but clumsy advertising agent bumps into a handsome man, Neil, as she is on her way to present her latest advertising campaign. To say much more would be giving the story away, so let me focus on this story's appeal. It is warm and witty and very touching. It is a romance that is preceded by disaster at every turn, as Elizabeth is very accident prone. The story has a huge heart and highlights how compassion, sincerity, and old fashioned romantic values can turn peoples' lives around. Indeed, it explores the true route to happiness and how delightful it is to have one of those days...

http://www.amazon.co.uk/One-Those-Days-Samna-Ghani-ebook/dp/B00T4XEEU6/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_5

Crazy On You - the transatlantic rom-com!

Just imagine if you will for a moment. An English comedy-thriller writer and a popular American romance-suspense writer, write a novel together over the internet! We are now good friends but at the beginning we didn't know each other. But because I love a challenge and one that was most compelling in concept, I jumped instantly at the chance. I wrote the chapters Archie Pope, the tough but soft and sweet-natured London gangster, narrates, using the UK English dictionary and J Kahele wrote for the captive and heartbroken Isabella Commarata, the evil Mafia Don's daughter. The chapters Isabella narrates use the American-English dictionary. So a daring challenge was set in motion...

We found we got on well and were absolutely delighted by the other's writing. We shared a common vision. We wanted an explosive gangster plot, full of mind blowing wars erupting between the London mob and the New York Mafia. We also wanted an uplifting story depicting the beautiful love shared between Archie and Isabella. We wanted comedy and there are plenty of laughs. We also wanted seductive and sizzling sex but touching and driven by deep love.

We exceeded our expectations. We were delighted by our gangster rom-com, that according to readers, brought forth a whole avalanche of emotions. They loved it and were effusive in letting us know about it! What we accomplished was, really, nothing short of a miracle. We only requested small changes in the other's writing, I wanted a character of mine to be less aggressive and J Kahele wanted a character of hers to be more aggressive! We absolutely loved our novel and the collaboration that brought out a new writer in each of us. As you can imagine our joint project is very special to us and working together such a joy; there is to be a sequel.

We would love for you to read our book and to hear your own personal opinion. Because I can promise you one thing. Crazy For You is a rollercoaster ride that will keep you entertained and never bored!

http://www.amazon.com/Crazy-You-Archie-Isabella-Book-ebook/dp/B00SXOLIE2/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_1

Review of The Blood and the Raven by John Hennessy

As someone not overly familiar with the vampire genre, apart from a few movies, I have to say that this was a highly impressive, intriguing, not to say eerie introduction to the world of vampires. John Hennessy is something of an authority on the true essence of vampires and points out that this story is strictly in the tradition of vampires as cold-blooded killers, as depicted by Bram Stoker's Dracula, rejecting later misrepresentations of vampires as seductive romancers.

For those who love their horror starkly terrifying and dark, you won't find a better exponent of this art of story telling than Mr Hennessy.

It begins with a group of teenagers attempting to scare the living daylights out of one another in the creepy setting of a priory. They are failing miserably until it's Seth turn and two candles are ominously extinguished as he begins his forbidding tale...

A peevish man and his young wife are travelling through the Midlands by horse and carriage in torrential rain. They take respite in an inn called the Blood and the Raven. A savage raven does indeed reside there. The couple find the beautiful landlady, Mariana and her daughter Juliana most alluring and welcoming, however, the locals are strange and sniggering, making disturbing comments about blood and the raven. Then the landlady offers them separate rooms due to some strange custom. The man is angry and he and his wife leave. They are however forced back to the inn by the broken road. Upon entering, some really blood chilling events occur. There is more to Mariana and her daughter than meets the eye...it's truly disturbing.

What is so amazing about Hennessy's writing is that he manages to draw you completely into the world he has created. He creates a dismal, horrifying, claustrophobic world with atmospheric writing that conveys a terror and evil that reign supreme. I was also surprised by some of the twists and turns - testament to highly skilful writing, why should I be surprised when I should guess what is coming in a vampire tale entitled The Blood and the Raven?

I was perturbed by this story and scared and the part of me that enjoys being perturbed and scared very much enjoyed this clever tale.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24189135-the-blood-and-the-raven?ac=1

Review Of It Starts With A Kiss.

Jennifer Green is a middle-aged woman, trapped in a dull, soul-sapping marriage with accountant, Greg. To make matters worse, Greg has had an affair with a much younger woman. Jennifer has reached breaking point and contemplates and then actually attempts suicide.

From this event, with the irresistible allure of a feel-good fantasy, Jennifer embarks on an incredible journey. An unwholesome kiss with a magical hobo transforms her into a gorgeous 25 year old woman. She becomes an uber glamorous celebrity and is able to befriend and help her daughter along the way.

This is a very funny story. The razor-sharp observations about the shallowness and ruthlessness of celebrity and the TV industry, the lust of men and women alike, and the challenge of accepting one's self in a world that worships perfection, bring a grounding truth and reality to this fantastical tale.

I am sure that many women will be able to identify with Jennifer. This is one of those books that warms the soul and lightens the heart because the message it conveys is one that validates that living an “ordinary” life can be wonderful and fulfilling if one chooses it to be. It challenges the empty values and extraordinary lives that the media programmes us to be constantly seeking.
Above all, a very funny and entertaining read.

http://www.amazon.com/It-Starts-Kiss-SN-Weddle-ebook/dp/B00KYX31WM/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_1

Crazy On You - the gangster rom-com now available on Amazon!

This is a collaboration between one of America's greatest romance writer's and myself; a writer of comedy and thrillers. Archie Pope, a London gangster falls for the beautiful Isabella Commarata. The problem is that Isabella is the daughter of one Giovanni Commarata, the evil Mafia Don, who controls New York. There's romance and comedy but also some serious warfare going on between two rival gangs. It's a book to both thrill and warm the heart!http://www.amazon.com/Crazy-You-Archie-Isabella-Book-ebook/dp/B00SXOLIE2/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_1

Death Of A Diva - an intriguing spin on murder-mystery noire

Stella Berger, revered star of stage and screen in Germany, is just completing a successful run on Broadway. She fled to America as the Nazi's tightened their genocidal grip on Europe. She is found strangled by a violin string in her dressing room. The prime suspect is an emigrant violin-playing street musician. What follows, however, is more twists than on a 1960's London dance floor. Narrated by another Jewish emigrant, Misha Safron, she is working in the theatre at the time and it was she, taking pity on the man, who let the street musician into the theatre. Because of this, she is initially accused of complicity in the murder. She is easy to relate to, very likeable, and she is taken on a strange journey with Anti-Semitism lurking around every corner.

Worthy in its own right as classic 1930's murder-mystery noire, author, Brigitte Goldstein, brilliantly weaves into the tale, the experience of being Jewish, with a beleaguered history, never just accepted and allowed to be, no matter the continent they are citizen of.

I was taken on a journey through a world where nothing is what it at first appears. Misia Safran and the street musician and other characters vividly describe Jewish life in Germany and Eastern Europe. We are treated to their cultural and diverse lifestyles, the bustling and heady Jewish communities that existed in all forms of the arts – theatre, cabaret, movies. Many of them thrive until brutal Nazi Anti-Semitism rears its ugly head. Stella Berger had always been an outspoken adversary of the Nazis right up to her untimely death. The history of this era is impeccably researched and integral to the plot.

This is an entrancing piece of work, that I thoroughly enjoyed. If you like murder-mysteries with astonishing twists then this book is for you based on that preference alone. But it is also an antidote to generations of Anti-Semitism that continues to this day. You meet regular Jews – lovable, complex, frustrating, fascinating...you know, just like any race. History is corroded by persecution and genocide inflicted by one race on another. This book sets the record straight on Jewishness it redresses the balance of all the perverse ideas out there about racial, religious, cultural superiority.

Highly enjoyable read. Please check out for yourself.  

Humanity's Way Forward by Seth Mullins - Review

This is a wonderful book that worked on two levels for me: Not only was it a thoroughly engaging account of a young rock band with integrity who begin achieving success, it was also an uplifting essay on spiritual renewal.

It resonated deeply with me, as the main character Brandon Chane wrestles with coming to terms with the meaning of life and how to live it, reflects my own struggles. I grew up feeling like an outcast and a misfit who struggled to find meaning in this competitive, shallow, corporate, often random and cruel world. Lead singer Brandon writes lyrics and creates music with his band The Edge Of The Known, that resonates with a myriad lost souls around the world.

As the band's popularity accelerates, the media thrusts upon him the image of a mystical shamanic saviour, whilst he still struggling to resolve deep conflicts within him. He is wounded by the death of his father; a man he was in conflict with and only just getting to know as a human being and his counsellor Seth has his work cut out, trying to help Brandon find a world-view that makes sense and carries true substance.

 It is an enthralling tale, one that enriched me spiritually. I feel that the conclusions that the book draws about life and the spiritual reality underlying everything that we do and experience to parallel and expand the conclusions I have drawn. It is very moving at times, the beauty of it is that it tenderly champions the importance of human connection, that many of us feel lost and alone. Together we can make sense and create a life that is fulfilling and can bring the world together to a warm and compassionate place, where we find answers to our questions.

 It was a truly wonderful experience reading this book and one that I eagerly recommend. Highly enjoyable read. Please check out for yourself.

CRAZY ON YOU - new novel by James Duncan and J Kahele out soon!

The worlds of the New York Mafia and the top London crime syndicate are about to collide! The much feared Pope Crew, a bunch of psychopathic criminals, try to pull off a multi-million weapon trafficking deal with the murderous Mafia Don, Giovanni Commarata. Then Archie Pope, a kitten and flower loving softie blows it by falling for Giovanni's daughter, Isabella - a "crime" punishable by death. War is declared between the two factions. The Popes team up with the Zaffutos - a family under Giovanni's control, and vicious and explosive urban warfare breaks out. All Archie wants to do is woo his beloved Isabella. Everyone else wants him to kill her father. Not ideal conditions for an otherwise beautiful courtship! This is a rom-com with a difference. It's probably the most terse, thrilling, edge-of-your-seat rom-com ever written. Touching but deadly.

 She moved in for the kiss and our lips met with an urgent force as we necked wildly. A long time passed before we were finished. Isabella opened her eyes and smiled at me. Then her eyes flashed over to somewhere behind me and a look of horror filled her face. 

'Oh my God! Archie! It's Papa!' 

 The main reason why I am still alive is that I have hypersonic reflexes. I dived to the ground, pulling Isabella with me. Bullets whizzed overhead. The bodies of nightclub ravers standing at the bar fell. Several bullets' destination was the optics and it shattered from the almighty impact, hurtling cascades of glass and liquor across and over the bar, glass shards penetrating the backs of bartenders and the faces and bodies of customers. I spun myself around, hauling out my gun as I spun on my stomach. I held it aloft, pushing the safety level down to fire position, my finger straining against the trigger; I would shoot the micro-second I observed my target. The spin completed, my brain registered 6 armed, black ski-masked figures. Giovanni was eminently identifiable, from his stocky body shape and his cold eyes that wouldn't have looked out of place in a cobra's head. I discharged my semi-auto frantically...

James Duncan and J Kahele have collaborated on new novel!

Yes, I have written a rom-com with the great romance writer, J Kahele, who has a large following in the states. It's called Crazy On You and is about falling in love - a cockney gangster falls for a Mafia Don's daughter. That can only spell one thing. TROUBLE! The bullets fly, the sex sizzles, the laughs come thick and fast! More later!

http://www.amazon.com/Crazy-You-Archie-Isabella-Book-ebook/dp/B00SXOLIE2/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_2

Alphabet City - an intriguing read.

A masterfully written piece about self discovery and escape from a life that is dead and fake in every sense of the word into one that holds many problems and overwhelming lows - but is completely validated by the fact that it is a truthful attempt at living and as teaming with life as a river full of salmon.

The story is about Peter and the crushing blow of the death his beloved aunt, which seems to be down to the fact that he accidentally gave her the wrong pills following a seizure, the loveless marriage with his wife Kit, which appears mainly motivated by her materialistic concerns, the fear he feels that he may be blamed and punished for his aunt's death, propel him to make a move to New York. Here he discovers the seedy underbelly of the city as he pursues homosexual desires he has hitherto been unaware of. He meets Joe, a black American actor, whom he feels love for, a love Joe seems unable to return due to circumstances and a past that makes it difficult for him to process emotions such as love. He has many adventures, as he learns to live psychologically and financially in New York.

Wonderfully written, David Price encapsulates New York in all its threatening, harsh, neurotic, filthy glory - expresses the effects it has on lost, lonely, searching people like Peter. Price is also the master of landscapes, magically descriptive, evoking moods, almost taking on the role of characters.

The story has an authentic feel, I recognised parallel emotions from my time in London. There are also classical themes underscoring the story, the search for the shadow, being one such example and is so relevant, how many of us are searching for our shadows in empty modern society. I did find the graphic homosexual sex a little uncomfortable at first. I hope this does not make me sound homophobic, I enjoy the work of many gay writers and performers, but the sexual side is not something I personally enjoy.

Overall, the book is an enriching experience - seek to be yourself - "To thine own self be true". A liberating message which has worked for so many individuals of varying backgrounds over the centuries.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22977607-alphabet-city?ac=1

Review of "Mine" by J Kahele

I read 'Mine 2' first and as you will be able to tell from my review I absolutely loved and recommend that book! Now I read 'Mine' and I am treated to equally superb writing.

Jenna Kramer is married to the evil, sadistic, controlling Ben Kramer. Her work brings her to meet Andrew Carington, a handsome attorney. Their attraction for one another is immense and they quickly commence an affair. But it is a meeting of hearts and souls too and they quickly fall in love.
Ben Kramer is very rich and very powerful and he believes that Jenna is his property. He pursues her obsessively and violently. A story that is both a touching romance and an enthralling thriller ensues.

The novel goes deeper than the genre of romantic thriller, however. Told by Jenna, the story explores the traumatising world of abuse. It provides insight into the mind of the abuser and the abused. It shows the devastating effects of abuse; the terrible toll it takes on the victim and the people who love and care about them. This is an important book and I want as many people to read it as possible. It's not just for ladies who like romantic thrillers. It's for everybody – from general readers – to people who are being abused or their families and friends – to people interested in the psychological aspect of abuse – to people who just simply like a cracking good read! But most of all, I would love abusers to read 'Mine' and 'Mine 2' . Use Ben Kramer as a mirror. Is the reflection ugly? Then get help. Ben Kramer illustrates the deep issues that abusers have, but the rest of us will find it hard to pity them, because what they do is so horrendous. Ben Kramer made me very angry. I hope this book also encourages people who are being abused to speak out and get themselves safe. I really hope so.

This book caused me to have tears in my eyes many times and yes, I am a straight male! The demonstrations and words of true love are so deeply touching, this is a very beautiful read. You will also read with trepidation and horror, but you will find much comfort too.

This is a fantastic book and I can't recommend it enough. 

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Mine 2 - an incredible novel by J Kahele

Let me put this simply. 'Mine 2' is one of the best books that I have ever read. At first glance it appears to be a Romance/Suspense novel, which it is, but it is also so much more. Ladies, who are fans of this genre, will love it. The handsome hero, Andrew Carington, saves the delicate and fragile and extraordinarily beautiful, Jenna Kramer from her twisted, savage, and abusive husband, Ben Kramer. There's plenty of hot and steamy sex, passionate love, along with the lurking menace of Ben Kramer. However, this story goes miles beyond the confines of its genre and reaches places that truly nourished and touched my soul. Jenna has been horrifically abused by Ben. She bears deep physical and mental scars of his abuse. Andrew's love for her is so strong and unconditional, that he is prepared to undergo strenuous changes as he is challenged by Jenna's erratic, bewildering sometimes hurtful behaviour (due to the abuse she suffered), and the very real danger of Ben's violent fury as he constantly seeks to punish Jenna for leaving him. This book is about the damage an abuser inflicts on their victim. It's a powerful exploration of the psychology of the abuser and the abused and the paradoxes that abound in such a situation. But it is also the story of two people in love. This is real love that endures and heals and intensifies in spite of the traumatic events that intrude and inflict incredible pain on Andrew and Jenna. I believe that both men and women who like to read thoughtful and inspiring literature will find this book an incredible read. I most certainly did. Below is my Goodreads and Amazon review for Mine 2. Wow! 'Mine 2' is one of the most amazing books I have ever read! I was asked to read it and thought 'Oh no, it's a ladies book!' Andrew Carington – the handsome attorney falls in love with Jenna Kramer! It will be full of passionate sex I can only dream of and the type of love affair I'm still hoping to achieve, I thought. Promising things looming currently! I'm a 43 year old male, by the way. Well, yes, there is a lot of red-hot, passionate sex – but it is tasteful whilst being racy and steamy – it is full of absolute love – it warms the reader as well as turning them on. There is so so much to this book that is worthy of fiction termed 'literary fiction', so much spirituality – as it is about unconditional love in the truest sense of the word. Andrew loves Jenna so much, he has transformed from selfish, casual sex batchelor, to everything that the young, fragile, delicate and niave Jenna could possibly ever want or need. She left her abusive ex-husband Ben Kramer, a sadistic, cruel 'creature', who is also a powerful, tremendously wealthy Senator, to be with Andrew. Andrew has to deal with all the trauma, danger and damage that past relationship entails. Ben Kramer attacks Jemma physically and mentally leaving terrible scars of both the physical and mental kind. He continues to pose a threat, as he can get away with his lunatic behaviuor due to his power, money, and influence. Andrew still loves Jemma wildly and completely despite this menace that constantly threatens. She displays some damaged behaviour due to the abuse, that many men could not cope with – Andrew strives and suceeds in understanding her more and more – his love growing all the time. Andrew plots a way to rid them of Ben's evil presence for good. There's plenty in this book for us guys! The ladies will love Andrew's nurting, protective stance. He's very dashing and you ladies will swoon! What I love about this book is that it is about unconditional, everlasting love. I'm one of the men who lives for this beautiful state of being. Many men will think that this is a book for the ladies, I assure you that it is for us men too! It is narrated by Andrew – it's from a male perspective – an authentic one I may add, written by a lady (J Kahele). It is exciting and has plenty of action that will excite the male reader. I enjoyed that aspect, but as an evolved male I also loved the day to day life story of true love, survival, and two souls striving to be one. We men need to check ourselves against the characters of Andrew Carington and Ben Kramer. If you are closer to Ben, get help, think hard, and work on yourself! If you are like Andrew, you are a worthwhile human being, making mistakes like us all, but open and willing to learn and overcome jealousy (when there are good reasons behind actions that cause it) to be a truly worthwhile lover and friend of your spouse or signifigant one. Who knows, reading this, could help you bridge gaps and you may find your current romance reflecting Andrew's and Jemma's. This book is important. Read it to discover more about how insidious and cunning and hidden abuse is. If you choose, help tackle it, I read recently how alarmingly high the numbers of rape, sexual and physical abuse are. It can help you reach into yourself and find the unconditional love we can all manifest in our hearts. Amazing achievement, J Kahele, this deserves to be a bestseller and I am reccommending it to everyone I can. I like it more than my own work, well almost! We got to get this viral – it's THE sensation! Please purchase!