Teri M. Brown's Blog

Undressed: The Unfiltered Story of My Failed American Dream and How It Led to Success by Gregory L Vetter is a funny and relatable business book masquerading as a memoir. Although each chapter ends with lessons learned from the business world, the rest of the book reads like an amazing life story. Even knowing the end - the salad dressing business fails - didn't keep me from hoping that Gregory would find a way to make it succeed.

Although his business and story are significantly different than my own, I found many pieces of information and advice that will be helpful as I try to move beyond "little local author." I also found helpful advice for anyone who is trying to do something big and bold - especially with naysayers shouting NO WAY.

One lesson I loved was this: You only live once. Take a risk; trust your gut, and live a life you are proud of. Another one, about getting to the end of the rope and tying a knot because everything looks different in the morning reminds me of my own rule - Never Quit on a Bad Day. I feel like Gregory and I would have lots to chat about! This is a great read - don't miss it.

Purchase a copy of Undressed:
Hardcopy: https://amzn.to/4nRUD3Z​
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4p56fSc

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Green Forest, Red Earth, Blue Sea is a beautiful Southern fiction set of short stories by Jim Gulledge. I fell instantly in love with these stories that take place in the state I call home - North Carolina. Each of the three stories takes place in a different part of the state and follow three connected families. The stories, though they take place during different times and in different places, stay connected through a family heirloom.

Unlike most books I enjoy this one has many varied characters, so there isn't one character to fall in love with. Instead, readers fall in love with place. And Jim did an excellent job helping readers come to love North Carolina, from the green hills of the mountains to the red clay of the piedmont to the sandy shores of the ocean. I also enjoyed discovering how each family connected with one another and how they managed to cover the state in a few generations.

We start in the mountains as trains bring change - meeting two young lovers whose time together is fleeting. Next, we find ourselves saving peaches from a deadly spring freeze. Can this couple eek out a living in the clay? The last story asks us to cheer for an orphan boy and the chance to find buried treasure against the backdrop of a tropical storm. And finally, catch a quick glimpse of a story yet to be told when a boy from the beach glimpses a girl from the mountains - and we feel that it will all start again.

Jim tells a delightful series of stories, and you won't want to miss this book. It would make a great gift for any NC native!

Purchase a copy of Green Forest, Red Earth, Blue Sea:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4oI77Mw​
Kindle: https://amzn.to/47IXRAE

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.a

​Whispers of the Balkans: A Dance of Memory and Desire with Author Michele Levy ​Today, on the Online for Authors blog, we're diving deep into Michele Levy's immersive and insightful novel, Anna's Dance. Having had the pleasure of welcoming Michele on the show, I am delighted to share our discussion that unraveled the intricacies of her work and the Balkans—a region often overlooked in our historical understanding.
Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionA Journey Begins with a Map
 
Michele begins our chat by describing the novel’s opening—a map marking Anna's journey from Trieste in Italy all the way to Istanbul, Turkey. This, she says, serves as the starting point for readers, a path uncertain yet full of promise. Immediately, you know that you are to embark on an adventure, where the road ahead is as unpredictable as it is enlightening.
 
The Balkans: Europe's Other "Other"
 
Reflecting on her lifelong fascination with the Balkans, Michele shares her desire to shed light on a region often misunderstood and misrepresented. Despite its European ties, the Balkans have traditionally been Europe's “other,” viewed as wild and untamed. Through Anna's Dance, Michele beautifully interweaves personal narrative with historical contexts, offering readers a deep dive into the complexities of Balkan history and culture.
 
A Story Close to Michele's Heart
 
The conversation turned personal as Michele revealed that the novel is semi-autobiographical. Her own exploration and adventurous spirit mirror Anna's journey. Michele recounts her real-life encounters across the Balkans, even sharing a breathtaking tale of narrowly escaping danger—a vivid testament to the authenticity and depth of experience she pours into her writing.
 
Characters that Resonate
 
While we explored character dynamics, Michele talked about Max, a favorite character who plays a pivotal role in the novel and will reappear in her next work. Max’s internal struggles reflect those of many who grapple with dual identities, something Michele knows intimately. This complexity adds layers to the narrative, making it both fascinating and relatable.
 
Research: The Backbone of Storytelling
 
Writing a novel as rich in historical context as Anna's Dance required diligent research, and Michele did not shy away from it. From consulting textbooks to navigating online chat groups, she immersed herself in the history and stories of the Balkans. Her detailed research enriches the narrative, grounding the fictional journey in tangible history.
 
The Essence of Identity
 
Our discussion also highlighted themes of identity and belonging, particularly through Anna’s Jewish heritage. Michele passionately speaks about the internalized perceptions and societal pressures that shape one's self-identity, a topic that resonates across cultures and communities.
 
Looking Ahead
 
Michele’s new novel is in the works, featuring a Bosnian Serb protagonist—hinting at a narrative interwoven with trauma, discovery, and perhaps, redemption. While the details remain under wraps, this upcoming book promises to continue Michele's exploration of identity amidst the backdrop of rich cultural histories.
 
In closing, Michele’s work reminds us of the profound narratives hidden within overlooked regions and peoples. Anna's Dance not only tells a compelling story but encourages readers to examine their own identities and histories.
 
For anyone eager to delve deeper into the Balkans' vibrant tapestry, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up a copy of Anna's Dance. Thank you for joining us on this journey through Michele Levy's Anna's Dance. May this story inspire you to explore and celebrate the diverse world around us.

Purchase Anna's Dance on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4lLI8FV
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4lNRdhy

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Old Grandmother's Tree is a series of historical fiction short stories written by Joseph Bolton. These stories are based on family stories and mixed with Canadian and French folktales - and the illustrations are incredible!

I loved learning about Joseph's family and the stories he heard as a young child about a many times great grandmother who belonged to a native tribe and her marriage to a French soldier - and how this story reaches through the years to the present day. Along the way, we meet many family members, trickster animals, and Quebec as it was in the 17th century and is today.

The trickster animals were favorites, especially since I've always loved the African and Native American fairy tales with such tricksters. I enjoy hearing how different cultures explain what can be unexplainable.

I understand that there will be more - and I can't wait to get my hands on the second volume!

Purchase a copy of Old Grandmother's Tree:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4433Qz9​
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4qHRRki

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

When America Turns on Its Own: A Dystopian Story Too Close to Home by Author MN Lee​​Hello, true book enthusiasts! Today I am thrilled to share with you an enlightening conversation with MN Lee, the brilliant mind behind the gripping novel "Proof of Origin." If you're a fan of thought-provoking narratives and profound character studies, this is a read you simply cannot miss. So, sit back, relax, and dive into this intriguing world that is not so distant from our reality.
Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionWhat to Expect from "Proof of Origin"
When you open the cover of "Proof of Origin," prepare yourself to embark on an emotionally charged journey that plunges deeply into anxiety and societal reflection. MN Lee's novel is a powerful character study set within an unsettling dystopian reality where the idea of being an American refugee comes to the forefront.
 
The narrative unfolds in a world enforcing a lineage purity test, impacting all citizens regardless of their birthplace. This potentially prophetic scenario forces us to question our cultural heritage and societal structure. It’s a tale rife with political tensions and family histories, all tinged with a collective sense of urgency.
 
The Origins of This Thought-Provoking Tale
Speaking with MN Lee revealed the depth of inspiration that political anxieties and cultural reflections provided to create this narrative. The novel delves into controversial topics like heritage and identity, examining them through personal storytelling. Readers quickly find themselves pondering what it would mean to suddenly become an outsider in their own home country.
 
MN Lee discusses the notion of a heritage American and the complex, often distressing criteria that supposedly define national identity. The book artfully addresses this anxiety through the lens of characters like Jenny and her harrowing choice between staying to protest or escaping an increasingly oppressive regime.
 
Nuance and Complexity in the Novel’s Characters
One fascinating aspect of "Proof of Origin" is its ability to reflect societal issues onto every character and scenario within its pages. MN Lee speaks about their motivation to depict characters with rich humanity, showing flaws and strengths in equal measure. Among them, Jenny's husband stands out as a key example of a loving and supportive partner amidst chaos.
 
During our conversation, I found myself resonating with the character of Hu—a symbol of youthful arrogance and the harsh lessons life often teaches. MN Lee artfully uses character arcs to represent the vast array of motivations, choices, and consequences one can face.
 
Linking Women's Rights with Broader Societal Challenges
MN Lee’s novel doesn’t shy away from intertwining various social justice concerns. The narrative posits women's rights alongside immigrant rights, showcasing how once a group is marginalized, others soon follow. A politically astute writer, MN Lee highlights the ease with which societies can revert to oppressing women once other scapegoats are removed from view.
 
Writing Process and Future Projects
MN Lee shares her journey as a writer, fondly describing the meticulous plotting process that breathes life into complex themes and characters. There's a clear dedication to creating stories that are insightful yet accessible, blending cultural critique with engaging storylines.
 
Looking ahead, MN Lee is working on "The Aima Point," a supernatural discourse on women's power through middle age. The novel promises to be both humorous and endearing, exploring themes that are as insightful as they are entertaining.
 
If there's one thing you’ll learn by exploring MN Lee's storytelling, it's the value of examining our world through new and unsettling lenses. "Proof of Origin" isn’t just a novel; it's an urgent call to reflect upon and challenge the conventions of identity and belonging.
 
So, if you haven't yet picked up a copy, I urge you to do so and dive into a story that will make you question, feel, and think long after you’ve turned the final page. And remember, authors thrive on your feedback, so please, leave a review! Also, head on over to Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook, where you will have the opportunity to win a digital copy of Lee's book.
 
Thank you, MN, for this insightful conversation and for sharing your remarkable world with us. Happy reading, everyone!

Purchase Proof of Origin on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/425iTaS
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3VtsrIX

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

​The Page That Was Never There: Unlocking a Balkan Curse with Author Lya BadgleyWelcome back to another exciting Online for Authors podcast, where we delve deep into today's literary creations and the brilliant minds behind them. In this post, we're spotlighting one of my favorite authors, Lya Badgley, and her enthralling new novel, The Thirty-Fifth Page. This is her third appearance on our podcast, and I'm thrilled to share insights from our recent conversation.
Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionUnveiling "The Thirty-Fifth Page"
During our chat, Lya shared the journey behind writing her latest book, which is set in Sarajevo, Bosnia. The narrative intricately weaves a dual timeline starting at the onset of the Bosnian War in 1992 and later revisiting in 2015. Central to the plot is Miri, an American art conservator who uncovers hidden truths within the legendary Sarajevo Haggadah—a medieval manuscript shrouded in mystery. As she dives deeper, Miri encounters a mysterious 35th page, propelling her into a realm where history, folklore, and a long-dormant curse intertwine, stirring the imagination with elements of magical realism and literary suspense.

Historical Fiction with a Twist
For those familiar with Lya's writing, you'll know she often blends historical fiction with suspense. This novel, however, ventures further into the speculative fiction arena. Lya candidly shares her approach to writing, revealing that she doesn’t constrain herself to a precise genre from the start. Instead, she allows the story and its characters to evolve organically, discovering the plot as she writes. As a fellow "pantser," I relate to her creative process and shared a similar experience where plotting hindered my storytelling.

A Unique Setting and Story
Readers will find The Thirty-Fifth Page uniquely compelling not only due to its riveting narrative but also because of its setting in less-explored regions. Lya's books, previously set in Cambodia and Myanmar, take readers to locations often overlooked in mainstream literature. This dedication to uncovering the stories of people from historically tumultuous regions stands as a hallmark of Lya's storytelling.

More than Just a Story: A Blueprint for Peace
Lya aims for more than storytelling in her latest release. She wishes to convey a "blueprint for peace," highlighting our collective ability to choose love over conflict. Despite the heavy themes, the book offers a hopeful outlook, a departure from some of her previous works with ambiguous endings.

An Intriguing Cover and What Lies Ahead
The cover of The Thirty-Fifth Page, designed by Lya herself, captures a dreamlike essence that speaks to the story's folklore roots. As an author constantly exploring new themes, Lya shared her excitement about diving into speculative fiction and hinted at her next project, set in Seattle's vibrant 1980s music scene—an idea that already has me intrigued!

For a chance to win a digital copy of The Thirty-Fifth Page, head over to our Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook. Share something you learned or loved from this blog post to be in the running. 

Grab a copy of The Thirty-Fith Page and immerse yourself in a story that promises to be as enlightening as it is entertaining. Once you've finished, don't forget to leave a review—it's the best way to support the authors we love.

Thank you for joining me on this literary journey, and a massive thank you to Lya Badgley for sharing her world with us. Until next time, happy reading!

Purchase The Thirty-Fifth Page on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3JBzcpP
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4q5ai1W

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

​Beneath the Sermon: A Son’s Search for His Own Voice with Author Daniel Robert Mazur​I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Daniel Robert Mazur, author of "Beyond the Morning Light," on my podcast, Online for Authors. Our conversation delved deep into the themes of his novel, which straddles the line between literary fiction and memoir, based predominantly on real events from Daniel's life. This blog post will provide insights into our discussion, touching upon the complex family dynamics portrayed in the book and Daniel's personal beliefs.
Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionElevator Pitch: What Lies Beyond the Cover

To kick off our chat, I asked Daniel to provide an elevator pitch for his book. While he is reticent about discussing his own creations, he shared that "Beyond the Morning Light" is largely autobiographical, yet presented in a fictional narrative to enhance its accessibility and intrigue. The novel reflects over 90% true events yet is designed to engage readers with its vivid storytelling.

Creative Choices: From Memoir to Fiction

One intriguing aspect of our conversation revolved around Daniel’s decision to tell his life story through both a memoir and a fictional novel. He explained that while memoirs stick closely to facts and his perspectives, the novel format allowed for a more vibrant, creative exploration of his experiences. In fact, Daniel is currently working on a third project that further explores themes from his life.

The Heart of the Novel: Family Dynamics

At the core of "Beyond the Morning Light" are the complex and often challenging family dynamics. The main character, Alden, represents Daniel himself, and the novel illustrates his struggle against a rigid religious upbringing. With a father depicted as authoritarian and a nurturing yet compliant mother, Alden battles to maintain his individual beliefs within a family that dictates rather than discusses.

Daniel highlighted the silent resistance of Alden's mother, who communicates love through subtle actions rather than confrontations, a dynamic that mirrors Daniel's own familial experiences.

Setting the Scene: A 24-Hour Window with Flashbacks

The novel unfolds over a 24-hour period with strategic flashbacks. Daniel chose this ambitious structure to spotlight specific, impactful events from his life. He meticulously researched and incorporated real details, such as the name of a newscaster and television station, to ground the narrative in authenticity.

Dialogue and Belief: Open Conversations About Faith and Understanding

Our conversation transcended the pages of the novel, touching upon broader themes of dialogue and belief. Daniel expressed the importance of engaging with differing beliefs for personal growth, emphasizing that true open dialogue is most valuable when parties disagree. He hopes readers come away from his book with a renewed perspective on their surroundings and a greater appreciation for learning from diverse viewpoints.

Conclusion: A Personal Journey and an Invitation to Reflect

As our talk wound down, Daniel shared a poignant story about his father's deathbed revelation, highlighting the unpredictability of reconciliation and forgiveness. He encourages readers of "Beyond the Morning Light" to reassess their lives and learn from the people around them, much like he has done throughout his journey.

To continue this conversation, I invite you to visit the Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook, where you can win a digital copy of "Beyond the Morning Light." Share your thoughts on our discussion, and you'll be entered into a drawing. Also, read the first 10 chapters of his new book, Luke, on his website www.CORvalues.net. 

Thank you for taking the time to explore this compelling narrative with me. I hope you find as much value in this story and our conversation as I did.

Purchase Beyond the Morning Light on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3H7ff91
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3UBCVW5

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Shades Between Reality and Dream is a romance by Kendra Saldana. However, it isn't just any romance. Instead, we are thrust into the social divides of racism and classism and what happens when men and women refuse to stay within the confines of these borders.

This is a wonderful multigenerational story that explores racism and classism from the 1950s to present day - and gives the reader a glimpse into lives that may be quite unlike their own. We start with a wealthy white man who has a child with a black servant. Is it love? We move to his child - who although half black, can pass as a white man. Will he? Should he? Does he? And then there is the socialite who marries beneath her station. Does her new husband want help of his newly acquired family? Do they give it willingly? Can the two find a way to bridge the divide? And then it comes full circle as these two families collide.

Throughout the book, the reader faces prejudice on all sides and must start looking at their own life and feelings to determine where they fit in the puzzle. I suspect that is exactly what Kendra was hoping to achieve. It is a beautiful love story - with all the ups and downs. But more importantly, it is a social commentary. Don't miss this one!

Author Note: There is quite a bit of sexual content in this book. Skipping over these scenes does not substantially change the book.

Purchase a copy of Shades Between Reality and the Dream:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4nPIbS1​
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4hU67CL
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

​Tiptoeing on Eggshells: Childhood in the Shadow of Silence with Author Liz Sjaastad​In a recent episode on "Online for Authors," I had the pleasure of engaging in a profound and enlightening conversation with Liz Sjaastad, the author of the compelling memoir "You're Too Young to Understand." This book takes readers on an emotional journey through Liz's life, exploring the complex dynamics of growing up with parents affected by unacknowledged mental illnesses. Our discussion delved into the themes of her book, offering listeners a glimpse into the realities she faced and the growth she experienced through this challenging yet transformative writing process.
Listen to the Audio VersionWatch the Video VersionA Narrative That Resonates
 
Liz describes her memoir as a narrative-driven exploration of her childhood and adult life, marked by her experiences with her parents' mental health struggles. Instead of presenting her story as a series of essays or poetic reflections, Liz engages readers with a character and plot-driven narrative. The memoir intricately weaves together the themes of her upbringing, characterized by the silent struggles within her family, and her later experiences caring for her aging parents, where old challenges resurfaced.
 
The Journey to Writing
 
Embarking on this memoir was no small feat for Liz, who was not a creative writer before beginning the project over a decade ago. Inspired by a desire to understand her parents' choices and the family dynamics that played out during her upbringing, Liz began documenting her memories. This endeavor was not only a promise to herself to finish the book but also a means to process her family's story and navigate complex emotions. The result was a poignant reflection on her past, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and forgiveness.
 
Uncovering Memories
 
Throughout the writing process, Liz uncovered memories both painful and pivotal. Her sister played a crucial role, reading each chapter and filling in details from her perspective, which brought valuable context and depth to the narrative. Interestingly, Liz found that some of the most significant moments were illuminated by this collaborative recounting, though she didn't uncover entirely new memories.
 
Balancing Family and Memoir
 
One of the potential challenges of memoir writing is how family members might perceive the portrayal of shared experiences. Liz expressed gratitude for the support she received, noting that anyone named in the book was given the chance to read it beforehand. The memoir, while honest, was approached with sensitivity, avoiding sensationalism or blame.
 
A Story of Hope and Understanding
 
What stands out about "You're Too Young to Understand" is its hopeful narrative, demonstrating that while your roots are significant, they do not have to define your future. Liz's memoir resonates with readers, offering comfort and encouragement to those navigating their own complex family dynamics. It reveals that even amidst difficult circumstances, it's possible to find good times and meaningful relationships.
 
The Bigger Picture
 
Liz's memoir also touches on broader issues surrounding mental health, especially highlighting the challenges families face in seeking help for loved ones who may not recognize their need for assistance. The book serves as a call for greater understanding and resources to support families dealing with mental illness.
 
Looking Forward
 
As Liz reflects on her writing journey, she shares that the process has profoundly changed her, comparable to years of therapy. Her experience underscores the therapeutic power of writing, helping to release blame and achieve new perspectives. Inspired by this journey, Liz considers future writing projects, including a middle-grade fiction book addressing similar themes.
 
Engage with Us
 
If you're interested in delving deeper into Liz Sjaastad's insights and experiences, I encourage you to listen to our full discussion on "Online for Authors." Join the community at Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook, where you can share your thoughts and enter a drawing to win a digital copy of "You're Too Young to Understand."
 
For those wanting to connect with Liz directly, you can reach out through her website where she offers resources on schizophrenia and a space to contact her.
 
Let's continue exploring these important conversations and supporting one another in understanding and empathy. Thank you for being part of this journey.

Purchase You're Too Young to Understand on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4nRUpu9
Ebook: https://amzn.to/3IyyBo4

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Beautiful and Terrible Things is a contemporary fiction by SM Stevens. We start by meeting Charley, a 29-year-old who believes she is cursed to lose everyone she loves. To combat this, she lives a very rigid and lonely life - until she meets Xander. He invites her to meet his band of diverse race, gender, and sexually oriented friends Terrance, Sunny, Jessica, and Buwan.

Charley is a social misfit, but from the beginning, I was cheering her on. Her rigid schedule and self-harm made me want to wrap my arms around her and help her see it was going to be okay - when I wasn't stamping my feet because she was being ridiculous! Of course, I felt the same way about each of the friends. At times, they seemed to have their heads on straight - at others? Not so much. And isn't that just like me, you, and everyone we know?

SM doesn't hold back. She brings in social components of our time including race and sexual orientation, but also mental health issues and green initiatives. With characters all along each of these spectrums, we are given the opportunity to see these topics from all sides - from those who live them to those who wonder if they really exist. We also get a glimpse into what we might do when we see something that isn't to our liking - and learn that there isn't just one way that is the right way.

This is a wonderful story about friends and what that can look like despite different life experiences. I really enjoyed this book.

Purchase a copy of Beautiful and Terrible Things:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4oDp2UW​
Kindle: https://amzn.to/4ovRRSW

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.