Tag Archives: Coming of Age

As Good As Can Be by William A. Glass- On Tour

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This post was most recently updated on July 20th, 2020

As Good As Can Be by William A. GlassAs Good As Can Be by William A. Glass

Publisher:  Hawkeye Publishers, (April 14, 2020)
Category: Fiction: Coming of Age; War and Military; Family Saga
Tour dates: May & June, 2020
ISBN: 978-1-946005-34-2
Available in Print and ebook, 400 pages
As Good As Can Be

Description As Good As Can Be by William A. Glass

‘As Good As Can Be’ is a novel about the wayward son of an alcoholic army officer.  As his dysfunctional family moves from one military base to the next, Dave Knight develops a give-a-damn attitude that goes well with his ironic sense of humor.  In high school he joins other delinquents in a series of escapades, some dangerous, others funny, and a few that would be worthy of jail time should the troublemakers be caught.

After barely graduating Dave gets drafted into the army and sent to guard a nuclear weapons depot in Korea.  There he runs afoul of his sergeant and must scramble to avoid dishonorable discharge.

‘As Good As Can Be’ draws on the author’s experiences growing up in an out-of-control military family during the 1950’s and his own military experience.

Advance Praise As Good As Can Be by William A. Glass

“A sweeping family saga that takes you into the world of a military family.  A great read.”

“William’s book flows magically, I had a stack of papers to grade one night but thought I would read a chapter before I started. Next thing I knew it was 2:00 am and I hadn’t graded anything!”

About William A. GlassAs Good As Can Be by William A. Glass

William A. Glass, formerly a VP at Gallup, now coaches soccer at a small college in South Carolina and writes. He lives with wife, Bettina, who is a high school German teacher.  They have three sons who have all moved away to pursue careers.

Website: https://williamaglass.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/william.glass.50767?ref=bookmarks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/williamasaglass/

Buy As Good As Can Be by William A. Glass

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Giveaway As Good As Can Be by William A. Glass

This giveaway is for the winner’s choice of print or ebook however, print is open to the U.S. only and ebook is available worldwide. There will be 3 winners. This giveaway ends July 1, 2020,midnight pacific time. Entries are accepted via Rafflecopter only.

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Becky Sincerely Uplifting May 15 Review & Excerpt

Amy Locks, Hooks and Books May 20 Review & Excerpt

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Annie The Write Review June 15 Review &Excerpt

Dawn Bound 4 Escape June 19 Guest Review

Kathleen Celticlady’s Reviews June 23 Guest Review

Jo Amazon June 25 Review (postponed)

Mindy Room Without Books is Empty June 29 Review

Todd Amazon July 7 Review

Bill C. Amazon July 15

As Good As Can Be by William A. Glass

Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore: On Tour

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This post was most recently updated on November 26th, 2019

Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeForeGrowing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore

Publisher:  Waldorf Publishing (July 15, 2019)
Category: Memoir, Disneyland, Entertainer Biographies, Coming of Age
Tour dates: Oct-Nov, 2019
ISBN: 1643166263
Available in Print and ebook, 348 pages
Growing up in Disneyland

Description Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore

Part biography about TV and movie star, Don DeFore, and his son’s accounts of life in a celebrity family and beyond. Don DeFore made more than 35 movies in the ‘40s through the ‘60s and co-starred in more than a dozen.  He is best known for his role as “Thorny” the first next-door-neighbor on “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet” and “Mr.B” in the 1960s TV sitcom, “Hazel.” The book includes much of Don’s unpublished autobiography, ‘Hollywood-DeFore ‘n After.’

‘Growing up in Disneyland’ is a metaphor for Ron’s life growing up in a celebrity family filled with Fantasyland adventures he equates to a Forest Gump type life, from meeting the Beatles, Beach Boys, Led Zeppelin, and other celebrities as Associate Director of the Steve Allen Show. His nearly 20 careers include a mid-life crisis as the Flying DJ at an L.A. discotheque to political positions within the Reagan Presidential Administration to establishing his own company. ‘Growing up in Disneyland’ is also to be taken literally, as Ron spent much of his youth in Disneyland where his father owned “Don DeFore’s Silver Banjo Barbecue” restaurant in Frontierland. Ron and his brother, Dave, have given presentations to various Disneyland interest groups after which many attendees suggested, you should write a book.

‘Growing up in Disneyland’ will be enjoyed by any age group from baby-boomers that remember Don DeFore’s many beloved acting roles to those that don’t but are curious how life was in the good-old-days, especially growing up in a Hollywood celebrity family. Ron has had so many careers and adventures along the way that readers will have much to keep them from putting the book down.

Praise Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore

“I enjoyed the flow of the book and how the author kept the momentum going, allowed the reader to adjust and then took them on a journey where they experienced the larger than life personality of Don DeFore. The language was simple yet encouraging. Ron DeFore draws the reader in and once they have entered the colorful world of the DeFore family, they won’t want to leave. Incredibly vivid and entertaining!” – Rabia Tanveer for Readers’ Favorite

“I found the life and works of both author Ron DeFore and his father Don to be a truly fascinating tale of legacy, the surreal nature of fame and the bubble-like existence which that kind of family life brings with it. Ron writes with a candid nature and kind words, recalling many adventures with a nostalgic tone that is sure to hit the hearts of those who were living during the time of the Beatles and the Beach Boys, to name but a few. For me, it was a glimpse into a past I’d no experience of, and the recollections by both Don and Ron brought everything to life with fascinating detail and authentic voices. I learned an awful lot during this heartfelt tale, and I would certainly recommend ‘Growing Up in Disneyland’ to readers who remember the fifties, but also those who would like a true portrait of Hollywood lives at the time.”-K.C. Finn for Readers’ Favorite

“A must Read Biography of a Film Star and Television Icon.  A fascinating read to hear his story from the viewpoint of his son, Ron who experienced every kid’s dream/ a wonderful childhood who had a golden pass to Disneyland”-Rick Lertzman, Amazon Review

About Ron DeForeGrowing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore

Ron DeFore is the second son of movie, television and Broadway star, Don DeFore. He has one brother, David and three sisters, Penny, Dawn, and Autumn.

He has had nearly 20 careers from TV and film production, real estate, Disc Jockey, senior executive in the Reagan Administration, to forming his own successful public relations firm in Washington, D.C.

Ron has since retired from his firm and continues to consult and write, “Growing up in Disneyland” being his major project since 2018. Ron is married to Laurie Gambino

Website: https://growingupindisneyland.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrowingUpinDisneyland
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Moviestarson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonofmoviestar/

Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore Actor Don DeFore Fan Club

Website: https://www.defore.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/DonDeFore/members/

Buy Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore

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Giveaway Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore

This giveaway is for the winner’s choice of one print or ebook copy of the book. Print is open to the U.S. only and ebook is available worldwide. There will be 3 winners. This giveaway ends November 1, 2019, midnight pacific time.

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Follow Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore Tour

Teddy Rose Book Reviews Plus Oct 8 Kickoff & Interview

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Becky What U Talking Bout Willis Oct 21 Review & Guest Post

Katy Goodreads Oct 23 Review

Steve Amazon Oct 28 Review

Dawn Bound 4 Escape Nov 8.Guest Review

Teddy Rose Book Reviews Plus Nov 15 Review

Reading Authors Nov 22 Interview

Amy Locks, Hooks and Books Nov 25 Review & Excerpt

Ruth  My Devotional Thoughts Nov 26 Review & Excerpt

Growing up in Disneyland by Ron DeFore

Harold J. Fischel, Author of Anthony: On Tour

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This post was most recently updated on July 31st, 2015

Harold J. FischelPublisher:  Harold J. Fischel (April 3, 2014)
Category: New Adult, Coming of Age, Contemporary Fiction
Tour Date: May/June, 2015
Available in: Print & ebook, 309 Pages

Life has never been easy for Anthony, the secret love child of a well-known US general and his beautiful mistress. After his father perishes in a plane crash, his cancer-stricken mother, Yuni, is forced to move with him to a tiny New York City apartment. And to make matters worse, he’s flagged as an easy target for neighborhood bullies, who constantly terrorize him inside and outside of school.

But after a brutal attack prompts him to fight back in a fit of rage, things start to turn around for the young boy. He shows promise joining the swim and wrestling teams in school, and begins to grow into the tall and physically fit body he inherited from his father.

Just when Anthony’s situation seems to be getting better, however, tragedy strikes his life yet again. In order to put the pieces back together, he turns to some of the strong female figures in his life. But it’s the one girl whom he least expects who may have the power to heal him—shedding his image as the illegitimate son through the magic of love and helping him leave his tragic childhood behind.

Praise for Anthony by Harold J. Fischel:

“It’s not often that I find a book that truly moves me, but Anthony may have just been it. Anthony is so real…such a realistic and poignant character. He is bitter, confused, sad, angry, and while his experience is not necessarily the norm of a typical young adult, you can easily relate to him. What a transformation. Anthony goes from a scared and weak child to a fierce, understanding, and competent young man. Fischel writes with skill and craftsmanship that is a joy to read. I would read anything else he has to offer in a heartbeat.”- Katelyn Hensel, Readers’ Favorite

“The young boy, Anthony, captures your heart in the first few chapters, and you will want to continue with him through his happy, frightening, joyful, daunting journey toward manhood. A good read from start to finish.” J. Herrick, Amazon Reviewer

“New Adult, Coming of Age, Contemporary Fiction’s coming of age story, Anthony, is inspiring and heartwarming. Fischel’s writing style is accomplished and smooth, and I quickly became immersed in this athletic and ethical story of triumph over adversity. Anthony is a marvelous book and is highly recommended reading.”- Jack Magnus, Readers’ Favorite

“Loved the story line, could not put it down. Although it is listed as a novel, it is sad to think this is reality for some kids.”- Donna Connely, Amazon Reviewer

“Anthony by Harold J. Fischel is a wonderful coming of age novel. I loved the story of Anthony,…  I welcomed all the surprises and I loved all the characters. Anthony was resilient and strong, even when he was still a kid. Everything he experienced growing up only made him stronger, some of the things that happened to him even made me cry. All the supporting characters also played big roles in Anthony’s success. Overall, a good book with great characters.”- Lorena Sanqui, Readers’ Favorite

About Harold J. Fischel:Harold J. Fischel

Harold J. Fischel, a graduate of Washington & Lee University and the NYU School of Law, has lived and worked on four different continents. His family fled the Netherlands shortly after the Nazi invasion, moving to Curacao and Aruba before settling in the United States in 1952.

After law school, Fischel served the US Army in Germany, later retiring as a captain. Since then, he again lived in the Netherlands, before returning to the United States to work for the US subsidiary of a Chinese company.

Fischel is now retired and living in Michigan with his wife, Jan, and their  beloved Labrador retriever. He has two daughters, five wonderful grandchildren, and two great sons-in-law. Since retiring, he has published two novels and is working on a third.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harold.fischel
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8112296.Harold_J_Fischel
Twitter: https://twitter.com/wellwaar

Buy Anthony by Harold J. Fischel:

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Teddy Rose Book Reviews Plus  May 5 Spotlight & Giveaway

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Cassandra M’s Place May 7 Review & Giveaway

IndieWritersReview May 8 Excerpt

Indie Review Behind the Scenes May 8 Live Interview  11 am Centeral

Carole Rae’s Random Ramblings May 11 Review

Inspire to Read May 11 Interview

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Binding Addiction May 15 Excerpt

Housewife Blues & Chihuahua May 18 Excerpt

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Ordinary Girlz Book Reviews May 25 Review

Confessions Of A Reader May 27 Review

Teddy Rose Book Reviews Plus June 1 Review

Ordinary Girlz Book Reviews June 1 Guest Post

Queekie Girl Reads June 3 Review

Rockin’ Book Reviews June 5 Review

What U Talking Bout Willis? June 15 Spotlight

What U Talking Bout Willis? June 15 Guest Post

Jersey Girl Book Reviews June 19 Review & Guest Post

Deal Sharing Aunt June 26 Review & Giveaway

Harold J. Fischel

Kimberley Patterson, Author of The Three Month Plan: On Tour

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This post was most recently updated on April 15th, 2014

Publisher: Create Space, August 4, 2013
ISBN-13: 978-1490589893
Category: Young Adult, Romance, Chick Lit, Coming of Age, Comedy
Tour Dates: January, 2014
Available in: Print & ebook, 262 pages

Kelly Callahan had everything going for her. Everything that is, except for a relationship. It wasn’t for the lack of trying, it just seemed like she was a magnet for all the wrong ones. But all of that was about to change the minute she laid eyes on Jake.
On a dare from her close friend, Michelle, Kelly accepts a challenge to date and become Jake’s girlfriend within three months. The consequence of losing is global humiliation, and she refuses to lose.

Enlisting the help of her childhood friend and confidant, Brian, Kelly manages to catch Jakes attention. She also unknowingly hooks Brian who tries to sabotage the plan. Kelly finds herself with a dilemma; take the final step with Jake and win the plan or follow her heart and reveal her feelings for Brian.

Praise for The Three Month Plan:

“The Three Month Plan is an enjoyable YA contemporary romance story about friendships and relationships … sometimes you have to look right in front of you to recognize the person who loves you most. Author Kimberley Patterson weaves an entertaining romance story set in San Diego, that follows the trials and tribulations of longtime childhood friends. The Three Month Plan is a lighthearted and tender love story about best friends who have deeper feelings for each other, and the trials and tribulations that they go through during a three month plan that leads them back to each other. This is a cute coming of age romance with quirky characters, funny dialogue, and amusing interactions that  puts a smile on the reader’s face. I really enjoyed that the chapters alternated between Kelly and Brian’s perspectives, the reader is given the chance to get into each of their minds as the angst over their true feelings for each other duels with their reluctance to lose their close longtime friendship. This is the type of YA contemporary romance story that took me back to my own post-high school days when I was like Kelly, trying to figure out what to do with my life mixed with the youthful giddiness of agonizing over guys at the local beach.”-Kathleen, Jersey Girl Book Reviews

“I thought this was a light, fun read.I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something lighter and more fun to read rather than deep, dark, and disturbing because this book is one of those that simply refreshes you.”-April, Yes I Read That

“I loved reading this book! Such a fun read, loved all the characters, the interactions and the whole story line. I couldn’t put The Three Month Plan down until I got to the end. This book is a must read!”-Kerie, Amazon Reviewer

“Normally, I read mysteries, thrillers, or sports books. But, I’ve been following this new Author, Kimberley, and I was impressed with her first book, Red Rock. So I read this one too. It is excellently written, and again, as in Red Rock much detail was given to language, grammar and punctuation. It’s nice to see an Author (especially a new one), take pride in their work. Kimberley has again given great descriptions of Characters, locations, and perspectives. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for her next one. Keep it up Kimberley!”-Tonkasid, Amazon Reviewer

“I simply adored The Three Month Plan! I needed this in my reading life right now due to the fact that I’ve been plagued with so much angst lately. The Three Month Plan made me remember why I love a tender love story about best friends turned something more. For the longest of times I was forgetting that it was my most favorite storyline too. But I’ve been hit by that particular book love bug once again, and I have Ms. Patterson to thank for that!  First we have our heroine Kelly. She’s so sweet, and she’s not the stereo typical beautiful heroine that you find in a lot of young adult reads and I really think that’s why I liked her so much.  I adored the dual point of views in this book. For once, the hero was actually really believable. Brian was so sweet and adorable that I wanted to squeeze him and save him for my own daughters one day. (Yeah, I’m weird like that.) I would highly recommend The Three Month Plan to anyone looking for a lighter YA read, but still has the voice of an NA read as well. Ms. Patterson has a great story telling voice, and she created characters that I truly fell in love with. I rooted for them from the get go, and watching them make their mistakes and find their happily ever after was not a torturous journey in the least. Like I said, this was the perfect light read that will make you swoon and feel giddy all in one sitting. Great job Ms. Patterson! You have earned a fan in me!”-Heath1005, Amazon Reviewer

About Kimberley Patterson:

Horses were one of my first loves, and writing soon followed. As a child, I spent hours writing poems, and short stories (about horses). My parents realized that I was horse-obsessed and decided to buy me one after taking riding lessons for two years. I think they hoped that all of the hard work, and hours spent mucking stalls would help me give up this expensive hobby. They were wrong. Writing is still a passion of mine, although now I primarily write fiction. My first novel, Red Rock, was published in 2010, and big surprise, there are horses in it. My second novel, The Three Month Plan was released August 2013.

Other Loves: My family, yoga, skincare and makeup, sushi, and raising money for pediatric cancer. I have two rescue dogs and would have more if there weren’t zoning restrictions. I’m always trying something new, as I tend to get bored very easily. Thankfully, my love of driving around with the gas light on fuels some excitement. I love novels with happy endings, and am a hopeful romantic. My latest obsession is browsing Netflix, and I can name all 50 states in alphabetical order in under 30 seconds. Do I feel a wager coming on?

The Three Month Plan Website: Www.thethreemonthplan.com
Kinberley’s Website: Www.kimberleypatterson.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Redrockbook
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Kpattersonofficial

Buy The Three Month Plan:

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So Many Precious Books Jan 17 Spotlight & Giveaway
Margay Leah Justice Jan 20 Review
Moonlight Lace and Mayhem Jan 21 Guest Post
Giveaways & Glitter Jan 22 Review & Giveaway
My Not So Vacant Shelf Jan 23 Review
Books, Books & More Books Jan 24 Review
Acting Balanced Jan 24 Interview & Giveaway
Deal Sharing Aunt Jan 27 Review
Lovely Reads Jan 29 Review
Wall To Wall Books Jan 30 Review
Ordinary GilzJan 31 Review
Ordinary Gilz Jan 31 Guest Post & Giveaway
Ope’s Opinion Feb 3 Review
Sweeps for Bloggers Feb 4 Review & Giveaway
Indie Writer’s Review Feb 5 Review
Indie Review’s Behind the Scenes Apr 16 8:30 PM Central Time