Tag: author

The Last Drive Tour with Marie Ann Bailey

~ John W. Howell

I am grateful to be with Marie Ann Bailey today. She is helping launch The Last Drive. Here is the link to her post. https://1writeway.wordpress.com/2023/01/13/guest-post-the-last-drive-by-john-w-howell-newbook/

When I started blogging, Marie and I followed each other right away. That was in 2012. I guess you could say we have been buds since that time. Marie also created the concept and co-authored the Top Ten Things Not to Do on my blog for over a year in 2013 and 2014. Marie also is a very creative reviewer. I have been pleased to have two books reviewed by her. Here is a link to other reviews.https://1writeway.wordpress.com/book-reviews/

More about Marie in her words

I am a writer living in the southeastern United States with three cats, more yarn than I can knit up in a lifetime, and a dear husband who doubles as my best friend.

My writing career started in the fourth grade when I was asked to read aloud a story I wrote. Since then, I’ve taken creative writing classes whenever possible, joined writing groups and literary guilds, and participated in readings. Still, in spite of the support I received from mentors and fellow writers, lack of self-confidence made it easy for me to give up on writing. Once I got a “real” job (in an office with a biweekly paycheck and benefits), it was hard to argue with anyone that I should or could expect to do better by writing.

I’ve made a lot of detours in the past thirty years, trying to become a Professional whatever (social worker, data analyst), trying to believe in careers and working in offices and 401k’s. But now that I’m retired, I’ve woken up to the fact that those things–career, working in an office, going to meetings, conferences–has little value for me. My writing has picked up, as have my publications.

In my ideal world, I’m always dressed for yoga, writing until I’m empty of words, knitting down my stash, reading up my leaning tower of to-be-read books, and cuddling with my husband and kitties.

Marie also has her work published. You can access it HERE.

Thank you so much for helping spread the word, Marie.

Comments have been closed so your thoughts can be pure at Marie’s place.

The Last Drive Tour with D. L. Finn

~ John W. Howell

It is always a pleasure to be with Denise, and I’m delighted to be on her post talking about my latest book, The Last Drive. HERE is a link to her post.

I have been following Denise’s blog and writing career since 2014

D. L. Finn is an independent California local who encourages everyone to embrace their inner child. She was born and raised in the foggy Bay Area, but in 1990 she relocated with her husband, kids, dogs, and cats to Nevada City, in the Sierra foothills. She immersed herself in reading all types of books but especially loved romance, horror, and fantasy. She always treasured creating her own reality on paper. Finally, surrounded by towering pines, oaks, and cedars, her creativity was nurtured until it bloomed. Her creations include children’s books, adult fiction, a unique autobiography, and poetry. She continues on her adventure with an open invitation to all readers to join her.

Denise writes fiction, Children’s stories, and poetry. Her books and stories delight and sometimes raise the hair. In all, though, they are well-written and always enjoyable. You can check them out at her Amazon site.

 

D.L. Finn’s latest – Click for Amazon

Thank you so much for hosting me, Denise.

I have turned off comments so that your words on Denise’s post will be original.

The Last Drive Tour with Beem Weeks

~ John W. Howell

I am so glad to be featured on Beem Week’s site. He has graciously allowed me to visit and talk about my new release, The Last Drive. HERE is the link to his post.

Beem and I have been acquainted for a few years now. I think we first met in 2015 when we were part of another writer’s club. Since that time, Beem has published some excellent books and is also involved in the creative side of helping authors reach their potential. His books continually garner four and five stars, and I have found them to be very entertaining. He has six titles, and you can see them on Amazon.

Beem is also a blogger, blog talk radio host, and video/audio producer for Fresh Ink Group, as well as a fellow member of Story Empire.

Beem’s latest – Click for Amazon

Thank you, Beem, for hosting me today. I appreciate your help.

I have turned off the comments so that your originality can be saved for the visit to Beem’s post.

The last Drive Tour with Craig Boyack

~ John W. Howell

I’m very pleased to be with Craig Boyack today. He is helping spread the word about The Last Drive launch. Here is the link to his post. https://coldhandboyack.wordpress.com/2023/01/10/guest-post-the-last-drive-by-john-w-howell-newbook/

Craig Boyack

I first met Craig when we were members of a writer’s club years ago. My tubby Kindle finally handed me one of his stories, and I have been hooked ever since. Craig has an uncanny ability to develop characters you can’t help loving. Among some regular folks, there are root monsters and hats that talk. This is on top of the warriors and mermaids, of which there are plenty.

He also world builds like he has an in with the gods on Mount Olympus. He puts the reader on ships that go to unimaginable places and, on the other hand, puts us on a yak. All of his books are highly creative and enjoyable. You should check out Craig’s Amazon Page if you haven’t read one. There you will find his stories. You can pick any one of them since they are all entertaining.

Craig’s latest – Click for Amazon

Thank you, Craig, for helping me introduce The Last Drive

Comments are closed, so you can use precious words wisely at Craig’s place.

The Last Drive Tour with Harmony Kent

~ John W. Howell ~ 6 Comments

Today I am so happy that Harmony Kent is helping to spread the word on The Last Drive. Here is the link to her post https://harmonykent.co.uk/newbook-the-last-drive-by-john-howell-howellwave-paranormalfiction-mysterythriller/

I have known Harmony for almost ten years. She is a multi-genre indie author with a wicked sense of humor. She also has a passion for writing that is manifest in books, novelettes, short stories, and poetry. In each case, Harmony executes her work precisely, and you can count on having your emotions tweaked by her words.

Harmony’s latest – Click for Amazon

You can view all of Harmony’s publications on her website or go to her Amazon pages.

US Harmony Author Page

UK Harmony Author Page

Thank you so much for helping spread the word, Harmony.

I have closed comments here to conserve your words for use on Harmony’s site.

Views of the Neighborhood – Frost Warnings

~ John W. Howell ~ 81 Comments

Prior to New Year’s Eve we had a two day freeze here in the neighborhood. I went out and captured some of the sights. Our tour today is to see how some of the residents tried to protect their plants. We are being catered by Koriente of Austin. Our entertainment is Little Big Town.

Menu

Koriente Curry (A): $9.5
Gourmet vegetarian curry. Lighter and milder than the version you may know, with carrots, onions, potatoes, and button mushrooms on a bed of steamed rice.
Koriente Curry (B):
Our vegetarian curry with rice medallions on a bed or organic baby greens. Pictured with the chicken addition.
Garden Handroll:
Avocado, cucumber, Korean radish, red cabbage, red bell pepper, and carrots. Wrap in dried seaweed paper and dip in soy wasabi sauce or balsamico. Add toppings like smoked salmon or Oyster/Shiitake mushrooms.
Japchei:
A warm bowl of clear sweet potato noodles and an assortment of veggies: carrots, green cabbage, red bell peppers, and organic spring greens. Choose protein options from above and enjoy.
Obake Bowl (A): 
Your choice of pork, chicken, pan-seared tofu, or shrimp sauteed with button mushrooms, broccoli, and carrots. Served with steamed rice.
Obake Bowl (B):
The Obake Bowl with rice medallions in place of rice and garnished with a handful of fresh baby greens.
Mixmix Bibimbap:
Steamed rice in a ring of fresh julienned veggies: carrots, cucumbers, cabbage, red cabbage, red bell peppers, and organic baby greens. Served with your choice of red pepper paste or mild wasabi soy sauce. Choose protein options from above and enjoy.
Rice Medallion Saute:
Sauteed green cabbage, mushrooms, and rice cakes served on a bed of fresh spring greens and julienned green cabbage and topped off with a pile of sweet potato noodles.
Shiitake Tofu: 
a comforting vegan dish that’s a savory blend of tofu, shiitake & button mushrooms in a miso-soy sauce served over a bed of spring greens, green cabbage, and a side of rice.
Spicy Chicken: 
bite-sized cuts of tender chicken in a delicious spicy marinade served with rice and steamed broccoli, and carrots.
Teriyaki Chicken:
Tender boneless chicken marinated in homemade teriyaki sauce served with rice and your choice of steamed broccoli & carrots.
Pan-Seared Ahi Tuna:
pan-seared ahi tuna dusted with sea salt, black pepper, and sesame seeds. served on a bed of spring greens and red bell peppers with a side of steamed rice and soy-wasabi dipping sauce. order rare/medium/well done. great with a side of avocado!
Miso Honey Glazed Mahi Mahi:
thick cuts of Mahi Mahi, perfectly sautéed in a miso-honey glaze, dusted with black pepper and ginger and served with spring greens, broccoli and a side of rice, and red onion relish.
Lemon Pepper Papaya Salad:
a Thai-inspired green papaya salad on a bed of spring greens and carrots, with red onion relish and crushed serrano chili paste, topped with toasted garlic. Served with a side of rice. Squeeze a lemon on top and enjoy!

Picture of an old time school bus

Jump on and let’s go.

At our first stop it looks like all the beach towels have been pressed into  service.

Then there are clear plastic bags and black tarp.

All the king sized linen will need a wash.

Shades of co-ordinated green and blue.

Looks like tent city.

Home Depot moving boxes put to good use.

The pirate crew loves the green plastic.

Monster mash anyone?

Maybe a different plant selection would be in order.

Solid green.

Buckets weighed down with rocks and sheets.

The old stand by. 1000 thread count Egyption cotton

Well that’s the tour. I hope you enjoyed it. Sit back and relax with the food and music.

Saturday- A Little Personal – Lucy and Twiggy Have a Tough Talk

~ John W. Howell ~ 144 Comments

Please be aware this post is about a serious subject.

Hello, friends of Lucy and Twiggy. We have all enjoyed the adventures of these two, and in some ways, we have become family interacting with their experiences. It is fitting for you to know that Lucy has been diagnosed with inoperable cancer. There is nothing that can be done but to keep her comfortable. She is on medication that keeps her pain-free and eating and drinking normally. It is a matter of time, now unknown, before we will have to let her go. We feel that to have Lucy disappear and then explain after the fact would not be faithful to the time you have invested in her stories. Although this information is hard to communicate, I think we owe you transparency regarding her condition. The stories will continue for as long as possible, and we won’t be mentioning cancer again. Lucy is talking to Twiggy.

“So what did the doctor say?”

“She said I have inoperable cancer, Little One.”

“What does inoperable mean?”

“Well, it means they can’t fix it.”

“If they can’t fix it, what’s going to happen?”

“It means I’m going to be taking a trip.”

“Trip? What kind of trip?”

“I’m going to go and find Bailey over the Rainbow Bridge.”

“I don’t think I understand. When will you be back?”

“Well, Little One, I won’t be back if I find Bailey.”

“Won’t be back? I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“It is the way life is, though. There is a circle that we all move in.”

“If it’s a circle, can I go with you?”

“No, that’s not how it works. You have a full life ahead of you. Besides, mom and dad will need your help.”

“Please let me go with you, Lucy.”

“Twiggy. You have your job to do here. Don’t worry when it is your time. I’ll be waiting for you.”

“Promise?”

“You have my promise, Little One. Now let’s get mom to give us a treat.”

“I love you, Lucy.”

“I love you, Little One.”

The Last Drive Tour with Stephen Geez

~ John W. Howell

Today Stephen Geez is providing an assist in getting out the word on The Last Drive. Here is the link to his post. https://stephengeez.wordpress.com/2023/01/06/guest-post-the-last-drive-by-john-w-howell-newbook/ 

 

Retired TV producer and composer/producer of music for television, Stephen Geez has mellowed into the lakeside-living life of a writer, editor, graphic artist, and Fresh Ink Group publisher. His work includes novels, short fiction, personal-experience essays, blogs, GeezWriter How-To material for authors, podcasts, video scripts, marketing content, and more.

Geez is the founding member of Fresh Ink Group, which is found at www.FreshInkGroup.com. Originally an organization for providing literary management to him and his writer friends, the group (FIG) has grown and morphed into author services and is now a full publishing company producing and distributing worldwide hardcover, soft-cover, and multi-platform ebook editions along with supporting media such as book trailers. Currently, he divides his time between his own writing and working with other authors in all aspects of the industry, from editing to graphic design to marketing. Stephen has authored and published 17 titles. Visit his Author’s Amazon site to see them all

For more information on Stephen or Fresh Ink Group, visit Stephen’s website at https://stephengeez.com/

One of Stephen’s books- Click for Amazon

Thank you, Stephen, for helping support the launch.

I have closed the comments so you can direct all your energy to Stephen’s post.

The Last Drive Tour – with Mae Clair

~ John W. Howell

Today is the third stop on The Last Drive tour, and I’m so pleased to be with Mae Clair.

Here is the link to Mae’s post today https://wp.me/p2dMh0-4rn

Mae was one of the fellow members of Story Empire who convinced me to do a sequel of Eternal Road. I will always be grateful to her for pushing me in the right direction.

As you may know, Mae is a very talented writer and has published four standalone novels, two series (three books each), four novellas included in four anthologies, and one co-authored book. So if you are keeping track, that’s fifteen books and included in four short story collections. Mae loves to write, and her productivity demonstrates that love. You can see them all on her Amazon Author’s page

Mae’s Bio

A member of the Mystery Writers of America and International Thriller Writers, Mae is also a founding member of the award-winning writing blog Story Empire. She has achieved bestseller status on both Amazon and Barnes & Noble, with several of her novels chosen as book club selections. Mae writes primarily in the mystery/suspense genre, flavoring her plots with elements of urban legend and folklore. Married to her high school sweetheart, she lives in Pennsylvania and is passionate about cryptozoology, old photographs, a good Maine lobster tail, and cats. Discover more about Mae on her website at MaeClair.com

 

Mae’s Latest -Click for Amazon

I’ve closed the comments, so you don’t have to think of two things to say.

Thank you, Mae, for helping spread the word.

The Last Drive Blog Tour with Chris Graham, The Story Reading Ape

~ John W. Howell ~ 2 Comments

I doubt there is anyone in the blogging world who does not know about Chris Graham. Chris has spent the last ten years providing an avenue for authors to meet each other and to have a reliable source of all things writing. I am honored to be a guest of Chris’. So here is the link to the stop with Chris today.

https://thestoryreadingapeblog.com/2023/01/04/reserved-for-john-howell-2/

The purpose of his blog, according to Chris, is fourfold. (In Chris’ words)

1. To introduce YOU to new (to me) authors I’ve come across in my wanderings through books and the cyberforest.

2. To provide a platform (battered old homemade soapbox) for authors to introduce themselves to you. (See my Contact Me Section for Guest Author article Guidelines)

3. As an informal information service to authors, poets, or anyone else who is thinking of becoming a published person of that ilk.

4. To promote FUN and an OASIS OF CALM and Font of useful Knowledge andTips for Indies (please do NOT feed my naughty chimps, or they may follow you home) from the woes and stresses of the real world.

If you are not part of The Story Reading Ape’s team, you are missing an opportunity to learn, see, be seen, and be entertained.

Thank you so much for helping spread the word on my latest, Chris.

I have closed the comments so you can give Chris all your love.