Tag: USA

Stay Golden with Jena C. Henry

Even though life changes as we age- we must strive to stay as gold as we can.

Jena Henry is an amazing supporter of authors, and she dashes around social media leaving her trail of golden comments.  I cannot imagine how we would cope without Jena’s positive, fun online presence. I wanted to find out more about this lovely lady, so I read her novel –The Golden Age of Charli. Jena’s book gave me a great insight into her positive philosophy and prompted me to ask further questions. I wanted to get to the heart of her catchphrase – ‘staying golden’.

Jena: Hello Jessie and thank you for inviting me to ramble on and on with you. I’m sure you know that I am a big fan of both you and your Handbag Gallery, so I hope after we chat, we will have some time to browse the handbags and see the latest books that you have added.

Right, we’ll move on. I suppose you want to talk books and writing? And me?

Sharing our books and ideas has developed a wonderful friendship across the miles.

Jessie: Jena, it’s been great fun getting to know you over the past year. Sharing our books and ideas has developed a wonderful friendship across the miles, and I love my Ohio t shirt. I admire how much you have achieved in your life, and your infectious positivity. Introduce yourself with three achievements that make you proud.

Jena: I never think too much about myself that way- but I’ll try.

  1. I’m still here! Which encompasses having a happy marriage and a happy life, amazing kids.

And I achieved two goals that were important to me:

  1. I graduated from Law School.
  2. I finally wrote a book! (plus 2 more)
Sharing our books and ideas has developed a wonderful friendship across the miles.

Jessie:  What do you mean when you say ‘stay golden’ and when did you invent this phrase?

Robert Frost inspired me with his poem,
Nature’s first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf’s a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay.

The last line, “Nothing gold can stay”, is used in the powerful conclusion of S. E. Hinton’s coming-of-age book “The Outsider’s” (also a movie). “Stay gold Ponyboy”, one friend tells the other, meaning “stay innocent.”

As I am now a golden ager, and my book series is “The Golden Age of Charli”, I borrowed the concept from Frost and Hinton and adopted “Stay Golden” as my affirmation. Even though life changes as we age- we must strive to stay as gold as we can. I wrote a post on staying golden and here it is: https://www.jenabooks.com/stay-golden/

Jessie: You’ve reached the glorious years of retirement, and your positive philosophy inspired me to connect with you. What are your five golden rules to make the most of retirement?

Jena: Retirement…the golden years…the sunset years…the years where we all ask, “What’s a weekend?” because it really doesn’t matter anymore- every day is a day to rejoice. The desire to thrive is really the key. Many people face challenges with health and other circumstances, so I don’t mean to make it sound like every senior adult is able to frolic, and I’m truly grateful every day for all my blessings.

After busy and active decades of building a career, a family, a life…retirement can be a jolt or even a let down. Where is our purpose now? Here are my five rules to get you thinking.

  1. Prepare for your retirement
  2. Focus on healthy living
  3. Discover something new and fun to do
  4. Do something good for someone else
  5. Give thanks each day.

Jessie, you are at the perfect age to start planning for your golden years! You have plenty of time to get your finances and retirement plans, your health, and your interests developed. You already have the golden, optimistic mind-set!

Jessie: Now you are enjoying retirement, what word words of advice would you give to Jena in her twenties. 

Jena: Don’t worry, I know you were eager to finish college and move out from home and now that you’ve done it, you’re feeling a bit shaky but… EVERYTHING WILL TURN OUT BETTER THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE!  All the life stuff- career, marriage, kids… piece of cake! (yes, I try to be over-encouraging with young people!)

Plus- so many cool things are coming! Technology, computers, the internet, big screen TVs, ereaders for books, smart phones, smart homes, streaming movies and tv shows, so much better than the three tv channels you get now!

And, you WILL write a book. You won’t vacation on the moon, in fact you’ll never move far away from your hometown. The Cleveland Indians will not win a World Series, and you won’t get back to Paris, but you will visit China. And even though you don’t not know what sushi is right now, but you will love it!

Jessie: Tell us why reading is important to you.

Jena: Reading is my superpower and helps me to stay golden.

I have always been an ardent reader. And now I am enjoying being a passionate reviewer. I post reviews on Amazon, Goodreads and my website. https://www.jenabooks.com/category/promotions/

https://www.jenabooks.com/category/blog/

Currently, I am considering if I can do more to connect with and serve and promote writers, authors, bloggers in even better ways. Any ideas for me?

Jessie:  Apart from books, what other hobbies do you have?

Jena: As you may know, I am an avid sports fan, and we stay current with most sports, from local to professional. And now thanks to you I’m learning more about British sports! I’m happy to chat about Baseball- I root, root, for the home team which is the Cleveland Indians! I also cheer on the “real football” team, the Cleveland Browns and I’m most passionate about our pro Basketball team, The Cleveland Cavaliers!( Until last year, we had the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) LeBron James. I believe you have never heard of him?) My husband and sons also follow motorsports.

Jessie: What was a key influence in your life? 

I am thankful I was born, grew up, and have always lived in Ohio. Ohio is a mid-western state with contrasts- cities and farms, conservatives and liberals, even Amish. Church and community are important. And one thing unites us all- The Ohio State University and its championship football program.

When someone starts the cheer of “O” “H”!…We all know to shout back “I” “O”.

And Ohioans are also quick to form OHIO with their arms and we share photographs of this all over social media.

Here is a photo my niece took, that shows OHIO on the side of a barn, near the city where we live. (Photo by mackmarie.com)

And Ohioans are also quick to form OHIO with their arms and we share photographs of this all over social media.

Jessie: You are also an author of a great collection of books about retirement. Pinpoint the exact time when you decided to write your trilogy.  What was the biggest writing challenge?

Jena: I always wanted to write a book. After 40 years of dreaming, my husband said to me “Well, if you ever want to write a book, you should get started. Time is running out.”

Perhaps a bit harsh- but it worked. The idea of Charli came to me and I got to know her and write about her.

No real challenges. I am so proud of my books and me. I wrote a three-book fiction series, The Golden Age of Charli. I love all my books because they are just what I wanted them to be- fun, positive and encouraging. My books are loosely based on my experiences and the experiences of about 50 million other women! For more info

Thanks again Jessie! Time for tea and cake?

Jessie: I thoroughly enjoyed Jena’s book and it made me reflect on my future retirement as a golden goal to be enjoyed.   I’ve learned it’s never too early to plan my golden years.  Here is my review of The Golden Age of Charli : GPS

The Golden Age of Charli is a novel, memoir and self-help book. It cleverly guides the reader through the familiar frustrations encountered by retirees who have lost their way.  However, the dominant ideology of this book can be applied to anyone who is searching for a ‘raison d’être’.

Charli McAntic has reached her ‘sunset years’ and yearns for a new adventure as she stares at a photo of Audrey Hepburn in the hairdressers.  Alas, Charli and Pud drink to ‘joie de vivre’ but they seem to be on automatic drive mode.  It is only Charli who muses ‘why wasn’t I content?’

Page (before the health program) Me, Henry at high school graduation, Charles

Aug, their son, observes, ‘We need to boost your wild side, Mom’: his cute observation made me smile.  Although she is on the verge of an exciting era, Charli is uncertain about stepping off treadmill of life that has sustained her.  I yearned for Charli to navigate through her sunset years and ‘do something meaningful.’  Charli explains, ‘I don’t want to change my life; I just want to search for more meaning to add tapestry to my life.’ I understood she needed to weave a little je ne sais quoi into her life to achieve fulfilment.

Alas, Pud is content to play golf, and I was impressed Charli introduces her frustrations rather than shouting at him.  I wanted to chastise Pud who didn’t respond to his wife but organised to exercise with Connie.  Connie’s character is well drawn and added to the tension.

As the novel progresses winter draws in and the weather parallels changes in the narrative.   Language used to convey the seasons is poetic and symbolic.  ‘The winds roared harder and the wheels of the seasons changed to late autumn.’ Read the book to discover whether Pud and Charli find their ‘Technicolour moment’.   Will the storms and winds of Ohio shake up their life or will calm be restored?

Explore life through Charli’s perspective as she evaluates her life with warmth, honesty and vulnerability.

 

Please all my author interviews at My Guests and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel can be found here. 

Champagne for the First Golden Chapter

Can you hear the champagne corks popping? Launching Golden Chapters with Jena, C Henry and Lizzie Lamb

Champagne corks are popping. Take Me, I’m Yours is the perfect title to launch the Golden Chapters.  Jena stepped inside Lizzie Lamb’s world to peek at the first chapter of Take Me, I’m Yours.  Here’s what Jena found :

I reached into my golden handbag and chose Take Me, I’m Yours – A Wisconsin love story, by Lizzie Lamb. I haven’t heard of, let alone read, many books set in Wisconsin. A quick check of Wikipedia shows less than twenty-five novels are placed in The Badger State. (Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House in the Big Woods is one.) I couldn’t wait to read the first chapter and find the romance in America’s Dairy land.

Will all the scorching stares turn into something even hotter?

India Buchanan is enjoying a picture postcard-type day. She’s painting her fence, on a sunny morning at her house overlooking Sturgeon Bay in Wisconsin. Then, with a rev from a motorcycle to announce his presence, she is confronted by a tall, angry, formidable stranger, used to having his own way.

India and the motorcycle guy exchange scornful stares, snarky tones, streetwise stares, defiant stances, mocking salutes and India even receives “a slow scorching once over.”

She feels vulnerable, like a commodity, but no man is going to get the better of her. “You’ve got something I want real bad…” he says.

This unexpected visitor turns out to be her family’s sworn enemy. And all because of a feud which has festered for the last hundred and fifty years.
The chapter ends,

“Look all you like, MacFarlane,” she called even though she knew he couldn’t hear. “This house will never be yours.”

Author Lizzie Lamb has many fans and I am sure they will be delighted to settle down and read her latest novel. Wisconsin is an out of the ordinary setting, which has me interested. A family feud is intriguing. The author writes with an engaging style that quickly introduces us to the thoughts and feelings of the heroine, India. From the first chapter, I can tell that India is a strong character, but has she met her match?  Will all the scorching stares turn into something even hotter?  I’m intrigued if India has some secrets.  India shares a bit of her backstory- she came from England to New York. Do you think she has some secrets? Will any kilts make an appearance for the Lizzie Lamb fans?

Jena with a golden handbag…it’s a golden day…to read…

If you’ve read and reviewed the book, please share a link to your review in the comments. Thanks!

Thanks! Happy Reading and Stay Golden!

Jena C. Henry

The sizzling book tempted me to purchase a copy. I need to find out more!

About Take Me, I’m Yours

Jena couldn’t resist the photo of the book in the Handbag Gallery

India Buchanan plans to set up an English-Style bed and breakfast establishment in her great-aunt’s home, MacFarlane’s Landing, Wisconsin. But she’s reckoned without opposition from Logan MacFarlane whose family once owned her aunt’s house and now want it back.

MacFarlane is in no mood to be denied. His grandfather’s living on borrowed time and Logan has vowed to ensure the old man sees out his days in their former home. India’s great-aunt has other ideas and has threatened to burn the house to the ground before she lets a MacFarlane set foot in it.

There’s a story here. One the family elders aren’t prepared to share.

When India finds herself in Logan’s debt, her feelings towards him change. However, the past casts a long shadow and events conspire to deny them the love and happiness they both deserve. Can India and Logan’s love overcome all odds? Or is history about to repeat itself?

Welcome to the world of Lizzie’s amazing romantic comedies.

About Lizzie Lamb:

After teaching her 1000th pupil and working as a deputy head teacher in a large primary school, Lizzie decided to pursue her first love: writing. She joined the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s New Writers’ Scheme, wrote Tall, Dark and Kilted (2012), quickly followed by Boot Camp Bride. Although much of her time is taken promoting her novels she published Scotch on the Rocks, which achieved Best Seller status within two weeks of appearing on Amazon. Her next novel, Girl in the Castle, reached #3 in the Amazon charts. Lizzie is a founder member of indie publishing group – New Romantics Press, and has co-hosted author events at Aspinall, St Pancras and Waterstones, Kensington, talking about writing and the research which underpins her novels. Lizzie latest romance Take Me, I’m Yours is set in Wisconsin, a part of the USA which she adores. She has further Scottish-themed romances planned and this summer will tour the Scottish Highlands in her caravan researching men in kilts. What’s not to like? As for the years she spent as a teacher, they haven’t quite gone to waste as she is building up a reputation as a go-to speaker on indie publishing, and how to plan, write, and publish a debut novel. Lizzie lives in Leicestershire (UK) with her husband, David.

Would you like to have the first chapter of your novel sampled and reviewed? Find out more at Golden Chapter Reviews.

Please see my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A Christmas gift from a bright young star

Today, I am handing over this blog to talented, nine-year-old author, Ella Lopez.

Ella has co-written a book with her mother, Jennifer. C. Lopez, about their experience of home-schooling.  Entitled: ‘Thanks, But I’ll Teach My Own Kid’, the book explores fearless thinking and learning without borders. Their book has been honoured by their local library association, and featured in publications across the USA. Ella has also written her debut novel: ‘Legend of Beams’.

I challenged Ella to take me, and my handbag, on a Christmas adventure.  The young, innovative adventurer imagined a placed for the three of us to meet. Ella created a multicultural, celebratory setting and she is delighted to share it with you.

 

Ella’s Christmas Gift of Creativity

Jennifer, Ella and Jessie were having a good ole chat online about our writings, great books we’ve read and even cultural travels, when suddenly the internet line began to crackle. Their laptop screens went dark, but they could still hear each other faintly…they also heard some sort of bells ringing subtly from inside the screen and a jolly deep laughter- on both ends of the line. Jennifer, stared at the screen in disbelief as a faint image of Jessie grew larger out of the blackness. Suddenly, Jessie popped right out of the computer- and joined us. They were all together now, staring at each other in disbelief. Completely befuddled, they looked around. They heard bells and the sound of jolly laughter. They had all been transported through cyberspace when Ella pressed ‘escape’ on the laptop.

Thistle bushes, vibrant green shamrock plants and Noche Buenas of red adorned the landscape. The land appeared to be the most complex and unique combination of two distinct cultures: Mexico and Wales. It was an exuberant pallet of color, music and culture they witnessed unfold in front of us and beyond. Silvery snowflakes fell continuously, leaving a glistening canopy over the entire landscape.

They heard a faint voice echo beyond the grand red and green plants.

Voice of Christmas: Welcome, Bienvenidos, Croeso! You three have arrived in the land of Nadolexmas. This is the land of celebration where we merge experiences and cultures- a blending so unique and filled with pure beauty. You were transported here because the three of you have an immense appreciation of culture that encourages others to feel it too.  We want you to spread good cheer, and Nadolexmas beautifully blends both your loved cultures :Wales and Mexico. Please, sit down for your first meal.

The voice continued…as if closer now- but still there was no one visible within their sight.

A table and three chairs magically emerged on the landscape. Lights enveloped enormous trees that now surrounded our beautiful table. The table was adorned with a ‘Tapete’, hand woven in every color imaginable. Jennifer and Ella recognized it as from their favorite region of Mexico: Oaxaca. The table was set with gold placemats.  Each place setting had a Christmas cracker and some chocolate dragons dressed in festive costumes.  Tangerines and chocolate coins were also spread generously on the table and many plates of scrumptious plates began to appear.  Feeling grateful for this feast before us, Jessie reached for the plate of laverbread with cockles and bacon. She must have been thinking of  a Welsh breakfast.

Ella and Jennifer looked a little dubious at the green laverbread, but always willing to try new things- they placed some on their plates.  Jessie tried to think of something served by her Spanish sister-in-law then presented some additional prawns, with the shells on, cooked in garlic and chorizo. She was thrilled with the scrumptious holiday dishes she’d dreamt into reality, but was still looking for the turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce.

Ella BEAMED with joy and closed her eyes then, thinking of her favorite dishes during Navidad (Christmas) in Mexico. A simple few of her favorites came dancing through the air to the tune of ‘Feliz Navidad’. First was Ponche, filled with bubbly sweet fruits. Then, came Chiles Rellenos filled with rice, meat and cilantro. As the dishes gently settled themselves onto the table, Ella reached immediately across the table for a chocolate dragon.

Ella: Mama look! It’s Beams! It is the dragon in my story.

Jennifer: Ella it sure does look like Beams, but you are forgetting your table manners and also- you know we save the dessert for after the main dishes.

Ella: But Mama, it’s the holiday and a special time with Jess. I’m only going to eat just this one now- in honor of Beams. And I’d like to try some Welsh cakes.

Mama: Well, since there definitely doesn’t appear to be a land where rules apply… I suppose just the one Beams Chocolate can’t hurt.

Ella: Jessie, I think the prawns are my favorite. I didn’t know the Welsh loved Chorizo too. We have that in common! Please…you need to try Los Tamales de maíz, fresa y canela now (corn tamales with strawberries and cinnamon).

Jessie: You bet, Ella! I can’t wait. I love how they’ve been prepared inside of the corn husks and wrapped as if they are a gift. Just beautiful.

Jennifer and Ella: ¡Feliz Navidad Jessie!

Jennifer and Jessie raised their glasses to toast this most magical celebration with Sparkling Pear Juice. Jessie smiled.

Jessie: Nadolig Llawin. Now, we have all wished each other a Merry Christmas.

Ella: We have some gifts to share Jessie and it seems there is no better time than now in this special place. It just feels so Christmas-like here.

Jessie: I agree sweet Ella. Might I ask you to open mine to you- first? You know the gifts we share are never material in nature, and I’m awfully excited to see what you think of yours.

Ella: That is really sweet of you to want me to open mine first Jess. I’m just as excited as you are, to find out what is inside!

Jessie: Great, let me grab it out of my Handbag sweetie. I can’t believe my HANDBAG somehow traveled here with us through Cyberspace- but who am I to question the beauty of this mysterious experience!

Ella examined her gift from Jess. Inside was a red velvet bag. She opened it up and bright light immediately illumined the space around Ella and spreads across her face as she smiled. They were the most vibrant sparkles in all shapes and colors.  Ella stared, speechless.

Jessie: I give you the gift of imagination, sweet Ella.

Ella hugged Jessie tightly.

Ella: ¡Gracias! Actually, I’d like to say, Diolch (thank you in Welsh)! I know this gift will help me tremendously.

Jennifer and Ella: We have something here for you now, Jess.

Jennifer and Ella handed Jess a bag of multi-hued golden silk. She looked at us smiling and then down at the bag in her hands.

Jessie: Oh, my goodness- this will go beautifully with my holiday handbag. It almost looks like pieces of iridescent Abalone! How in the world did you make these Ella and Jen?

Ella: Well, Jessie it’s the gift of continued growth in creativity. I think we had similar thoughts on sharing something with each other that we’d always be able to keep with us. You probably won’t be able to guess what these are- that give you the continued growth in your amazing creativity so let me tell you. . .

They are the scales from a most magical dragon. There’s only one of her kind and they can only be found in the Realm of Castelina, where this growing dragon, Beams lives. As she grows, so does her magic and her iridescent wings shed scales during the growth spurts. They will give you much happiness and encourage your creative side to continue to fly. Here, you can read my new novel: ‘Legend of Beams’.

As Ella spoke, the beautiful shiny scales started to rise up out of Jessie’s handbag.

 

Please see my blog at jessiecahalin.com.

 

Happy Hour with Charli and Sophie

Jena and Jessie and the great escape of their characters

Did you ever wonder if your favourite book characters would like to take a break from the control of their authors, escape from their own book worlds and create their own adventures? Do you suppose they would like to meet new friends and have fresh experiences? Let’s listen in as Sophie, from You Can’t Go It Alone and Charli from The Golden Age of Charli series, meet and take a vacation from their book lives.

Sophie: Thank for you opening your home and your heart to me. I’ve had a splendid time here in Ohio.

Charli: I’m so glad your author sent you here! I don’t know if Ohio was on your list of top ten places in the world to see, but I’ve tried to show you my favorite places.

Sophie: Yes, we’ve done so much, and we’ve laughed and smiled even more. Aside from some minor differences, you say “yard”…

Charli: You say “garden”. You write the dates wrong…

Sophie: Ha! I jolly well do not! You eat dinner too early…

What happens when British and American characters meet for a Happy Hour

Charli: Really? But you have that lovely accent, so you win!

Sophie: Ah, you Americans like to win!

*Charli sings Anything You can Do, I can Do Better!*

Charli: Ok, enough…should we tell our secret…

Sophie: Our secret? Oh, you mean that secret…of course …

Charli: Do you think Readers know that book characters can really do anything they want? That’s our big secret- we can have lives outside our books and go places and do things anytime we want!

Sophie: I love our secret! As long as we can get Jessie and Jena, our authors, to write it…we can do it! We can go from your house near Cleveland to you other house by the lake and then be back in time for tea!

A Happy Hour rather than tea in America

Charli: I call it Happy Hour- I like adult beverages better than tea…but we can also have any type of food or drink we want- if we give our writers a nudge, they can create any kind of meal we want!

Sophie: Indeed. So, let’s enjoy! TO YOUR HEALTH. Tea for me, please.

Charli: Ha! This morning my husband Pud asked what we had planned for today and I told him you were helping me with a tea this afternoon. And he said, “No, my tee time is this morning at 10 am.” 

He must have heard me choking on my hydration water. “What’s so funny?” he said.

Charli and Sophie’s happy hour

I said, “Not ‘golf tee”, Sophie and I are having a ‘tea’ time. You know, cups, yummy tidbits.” 

I didn’t know if Pud heard me because he was heading to the garage. He called back to me, “That reminds me. I should make sure I have tees in my bag. Have fun today. You must really like Sophie, because you never golf.”

Sophie: We’re getting in to the Swing of things, aren’t we? It’s FORE o’clock so we’d better get started.

Step inside Sophie’s world in Wales

Charli: We have many tempting treats. I told my writer we want sushi, snacks, desserts, all my favorites. Please take more! So after all our fun, do you miss Delfryn? 

Sophie: Travel is great, but I do miss home.  Vine Cottage is the first home Jack and I have bought together. The cottage needs lots of work but will look great.  Delfryn is so peaceful that it calms me down after a hard day’s teaching.  The school in a busy town so it’s great to drive back home.  Trees arching over the road to Delfryn take me back into my haven.

I am often greeted with the delicious aroma of Italian food when I pass the gorgeous Olive Tree café.  Just thinking about Delfryn makes me homesick.  I miss walks in the countryside and the peaceful presence of Delfryn Abbey.

*Sophie pauses then stifles a laugh. *

How I love to sit in the abbey grounds and watch the ‘birdies’. Oh, I’m getting into the swing of this.

* Charli throws back her head, laughs and sips her tea *

Charli: Wow! I hope you use some large binoculars to see those eagles and albatrosses on the local golf course.  

I’m sure you miss your family, too. I know family is important to you. What else is important to you at this point in your life?

Jessie Cahalin’s You Can’t Go It Alone

Sophie: …yes…I love how you have cultivated relationships with not only your kids, but your extended family, too. Since we’ve been in Delfryn I’ve been getting to know Jack’s family.  Jack’s mother used to terrify me, but she has been fiercely supportive of us going through the fertility treatment.  I wish I’d told her earlier.  Max, Jack’s father, is ill and Delfryn is good for him.

*Sophie sighs*

I wish Max and Jeanie lived closer, so we could keep an eye on them.  Oh, and there’s my brother-in-law, Marcus.   He’s irresponsible yet lovable at the same time.  He knows when to listen and support.  I wish he knew what he wanted in life.  He likes Olivia, but he has a girlfriend back home.  Trouble is, he’s a bit lost and needs a job that uses his creativity and love of music. Marcus is young and hasn’t figured out what he wants to do with his life – too much time on his hands.  And what I like about you Charli, is that you still have goals. Wait, that didn’t sound quite right.

Charli- Tee hee- yes, I’m always buzzing around with ideas. We’ve chatted about this before, you know, you are so easy to talk to, but when my husband retired, it took us a few years to get our relationship back on track; we really didn’t have anything in common after his work and travel stopped. But now…

Sophie: You two are so cute together. You remind me of my dear in-laws, Jeannie and Max.  They’ve been travelling around in a camper van and enjoying life.  It’s great to see them together.  I think they are treating their camper van adventure as a second honeymoon.  Jeanie embarrassed Jack when she pointed out the bed in the van and said there was ‘plenty of room for manoeuvre’.

*Placing hand over her mouth, Sophie giggles*

Jeanie and Max’s new found hippy freedom scares the hell out of Jack but they make me laugh.  He’s worried about their sudden lack of planning and need to travel. I can understand them wanting to enjoy their retirement.

I guess I thought that all retirees liked to travel? Do you and Pud have travel plans?

Charli: After Pud retired, we spent several years zooming around the country, having fun with our nieces and nephews. We don’t have any plans right now. We’ve talked about driving through Europe or going to Japan. I’d like to take my kids on a cruise.

I know you had quite the time in Paris. Kinda like Pud and me in Cancun!

Sophie: We had a splendid time in Paris.

*Sophie nudges Charli*

Paris is the city of love, but Paris in January is absolutely freezing.  Although I wore layers and layers the cold seeped through to my bones.  Thankfully, Jack kept me warm in the evenings.

*Sophie pauses then laughs*

Wow.  I can’t believe you get me to confess this stuff.  I’ve found out that it helps to talk about how you’re feeling.  It was as I was stuck in a bunker unable to carry on with my life.

You see, I want children but have realized I’ve got so much to be grateful for.  Jack and I love each other and have a good life.  I also get so much pleasure out of helping others.

Charli: Oh, I need some more of this.  Thanks for sharing some of your special recipes with me. Do you need more tea?

Sophie: Don’t mind if I do, Charli.  I’ve exhausted my golfing puns and do prefer a tea caddy to a golf caddy – unless he’s handsome.

Confession time! My ability in sport is seriously below par. In the early days of our relationship, Jack constantly organised for us to meet with his tennis buddies.  What a disaster!  I bought all the right tennis gear but genuinely couldn’t hit the ball.  He was furious because he thought I was trying to destroy the game. The more I tried to hit the tennis ball, the more I stumbled on the grass. My perfect white outfit was covered in grass stains and my hair looked like a bird’s nest. Following the game, we saw Jack’s ex.  I pretended we’d had such a difficult game, but he won in the end. Later I found out that she’d been watching the game.  Oh well, at least my outfit was better than hers, and I bought a matching handbag.

Charli: Nothing like a darling purse and a snappy pair of shoes. Sophie, I know I’m going to sound old saying this, but the years do go by so fast! When I was about your age, the saying was “Don’t trust anyone over thirty!” It was the dawning of the Age of Aquarius…

*Sophie and Charli break into song and a few moves*

Oh, my poor knees! Thirty seemed old, but 50 or even 60…yikes! Turns out, I having even more fun now! Pud and I were always so Type A, lots of goals and lists, budgets and plans. Now, we take time to smell the chocolate and drink the vodka! Did I tell you about the time last year Pud and I were in Chicago, and I was soaking in the swanky marble garden tub in our suite (thank you hotel points!) and I cooed to Pud, “Oh, Cabana Boy…I need you… come here my darling boy…”  My visions of splashin’ and passion had a soggy ending. We still laugh though! And then there was that time in Cancun, when Pud massaged me with samples of a new body oil…can you imagine all green? How sexy!

Sophie:

Let’s tell Jessie and Jena that you must come over to the UK.  I’d like to show you around Delfryn.  We could go for an afternoon’s wine tasting in the local vineyard to continue our chat.  I’d ask Rosa, from the Olive Tree, to make us an Italian picnic feast.  I’m sure Jeanie and Max would lend us the vintage camper van to tour around the area.

Charli and Sophie escape to Jena’s lake house, Ohio.

When I spotted Jena’s Forever Young boat online, I laughed at the beautiful message – there was an instant connection. Jena’s character, Charli, and my character, Sophie are a generation apart but share a love of life.  The characters are fun, friendly and content with the simple things in life.  I hope you enjoyed listening in to their meeting.  I’d like to introduce you to my new and brilliant American friend, Jena. C Henry. Every interaction I have with Jena makes me smile, and I feel as if I have known her forever!

Jena C Henry’s Golden Age of Charli books

Meet Jena C. Henry

Jena C. Henry is an active, high-energy gal who is a wife, mother, non-profit volunteer and bon vivant. She created the fiction book series, The Golden Age of Charli, to encourage, entertain and share her joy of living and laughing. 

Jena is a book lover. She is passionate about connecting with authors and readers. Jena is delighted to read, and review books and she features many reviews and book promotions on her website. Jena also presents writing workshops to help creatives achieve their dreams of writing a book and publishing it.

Jena C. Henry holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Akron School of Law. Now retired, she and her husband live in tropical Ohio where they enjoy their two adult children and extended family, friends and darling dog.

When she is finished tidying her house, Jena likes to relax on her front porch and read and write. She enjoys fine dining, traveling to visit family, and lounging by lovely bodies…of water.

I can’t wait to read Jena’s books and indulge in positivity! 

Contact Jena
Amazon Universal  author.to/JenaBooks
Website: http://www.jenabooks.com/book/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jenabooks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.c.henry/
Google Plus https://plus.google.com/110683677816270622079
YouTube channel  Jena C. Henry https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKHLicS_dElaiY2qhhafiLQ?view_as=subscriber
Links to my book trailers. One is 30 seconds, one is 60 second
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZLp93LwXuQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRdgxX9ZPbE

 

Please see all my adventures at Handbag Adventures and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

Nail-biting thriller in my handbag to read on the go

Jenn Bregman 

 

 

 

 

Author, lawyer and adventurer, Jenn Bregman, stopped off in Wales whilst visiting the UK.  She stayed in the Brecon Beacons Mountain Range, so I drove out there, from Cardiff, to meet up with her. The year before, Jenn had just completed a reverse summit of the Grand Canyon, after having trekked up the 14,265 foot Quandary Peak in Colorado; she was on a roll to tackle even more hiking. We agreed to walk the summit of Pen y Fan and to chat at the same time.  I packed a picnic so that we could stop on route to chat.

The clouds over head looked ominous but we did not let that deter us from ascending the mountain.   The refreshing temperature was ideal for the climb over the rocky footpath.    As a lawyer, Jenn wears lots of formal suits, so she loves to really mix it up her outfits outside work.  She was wearing a red and white handkerchief shirt with her work-horse khaki hiking pants. Her brilliant green jacket matched her multi -pocketed rucksack. There was a copy of her book peeping out of one of the pockets of her rucksack.

Jessie:  I haven’t read your book so can you tell me more about it?

Jenn Bregman

Jenn removed a, well worn, copy of her book, ‘The TimeKeepers’.  The dramatic cover of a clock set against a background of the City of Los Angeles in muted blues and stark black, couldn’t have screamed “thriller” better.

Jenn: When attorney Sarah Brockman witnesses a random horrific car crash, she is thrust into the darkest shadows of Big Law greed and murder where she must not only confront a cunning and deranged adversary, but her own secret fears, if she is going to win.

Jessie:  The book sounds thrilling and complex.  Where did you get the ideas for the narrative?  Did your research it or do you have experience in this area of life?

Jenn:  It is all pulled from my experiences as a lawyer.  I worked in Big Law and I wanted to do work that made a difference.  Fortunately, I have always worked in firms that had the highest standards of ethics and personal responsibility, but in my practice, I came in contact with others that I could imagine could do things like some of the cunning and deranged antagonists in the book.

Jessie:  This kind of suspense legal thriller is very popular.  What do the reviewers say?

Jenn removed her mobile phone to search for the reviews.

Jenn:

Publishers Weekly: “Bregman’s legal thriller featuring a plucky solo practitioner fighting for the little guy should appeal to John Grisham fans.”

Ridgely’s Radar: “OMG! Do you want a fast moving, edge of your seat, twisting and turning book that you can’t put down?  Well, I have a book for you and . . .this is a MUST READ!  I was so scared to turn the page and find out what happened, it was heart pounding suspenseful and I didn’t want it to end.  I really hope the author brings back a sequel . . . loved the characters and want to know what happens next!”

White Rhino Report: “The author dials in more than the average ratio of plot twists and surprises.  The pace of the action is break-neck, and the characters are colourful enough to be interesting and amusing.  I could not wait to find out what would happen next, and found myself rooting strongly for Sarah, and for Sam.”

Jessie:  I get the impression that the style of writing is controlled and the tone is edgy. Am I right?

Jenn: The story is character and dialogue driven and the action is break-neck.  You don’t catch your breath until the very end when all the pieces come together in a powerful conclusion that makes you wonder what the characters are going to do next.

Jessie:  Can you read me a brief extract from the book that captures the essence of the novel?

Jenn:  “But that was all it was — a small detail.  Neither she nor her lawyer would ever find the money.  It was too well hidden.  He made a note to transfer last month’s draw to his accounts at Obelisk Holdings.  Some details he did care about.”

Jessie: How did you feel when you finished writing your book? 

Jenn: Utterly exhausted.  I couldn’t even look at it for about two weeks!

Jessie: I think that it is normal to want a break from the book when it’s finished. Who would you like to read your book? 

Jenn:  I would like young women to read this book and know that they ARE good enough, that they can fight, and that they can WIN!

Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my bag? 

Jenn: Once you start, it’s like Lays potato chips – you can’t put it down!  I’ve had people tell me they were reading it at stoplights.  Not the best idea, to my mind.  But if you have it with you, you can read a couple quick pages while waiting in line at the bank, or at the car wash, or on the train!

Jessie:  What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?

Jenn: “Move it, now!”

Jessie: What’s the biggest challenge as a writer?

Jenn: Finding, not only enough time, but enough emotional and mental space to write.

Jessie:  Do you dedicate your time to writing or do you have to juggle it with another career?

Jenn:  I have twin 5 year old boys . . . ’bout sums it up!

Jessie: What is the best advice that you have been given as a writer?

Jenn: Finish the darn book already!

More about Jenn…

I am an explorer and adventurer who does, at least, one scary thing a day. My scariest to date is probably worming my way up to meet John Grisham at Book Expo/Book Con after my book signing in June and giving him a signed copy of my book!

I love animals to a fault, if there is such a thing. I have nurtured lizards, newts, turtles, cats, rescue animals of every persuasion growing up, but then had two rescue pug dogs that I still consider my first set of twins.

I am a horrible cook. My favourite story is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for 20 where I bought most of the side dishes from a local food store.  Somehow, I couldn’t get even the side dishes warmed up satisfactorily in time so people were eating mashed potatoes that were cold at one end of the fork and warm at the other!  People were so kind, no one said a word until I sat down, started eating and started laughing at myself.  It turned into one of our best Thanksgivings ever!  I guess the take-away is “be thankful for your gifts and be thankful for the gifts of others!”

Best of luck to Jenn with her debut novel – ‘The TimeKeepers.  It is a fast-paced thriller: so, tighten your seatbelt, check your brakes and try not to skip a red light.  Prepare to plunge headlong into the depraved underbelly of Big Law and big money where greed is king, murder incidental, and winning is the only thing that matter.

 

Please see all of my interviews at My Guests and my blog at jessiecahalin.com.

Handbags and Gladrags and Reviews

Have you seen my review?

Take pity on a precious Amazon review

banished to the missing in action queue.

My sparkling five stars now long gone,

but on my blog the accolade lives on.

Hip, hip hooray for blogs and handbags.

Let’s celebrate and don our gladrags.

Alas, this rhyming has gone awry.

Authors will live to fight another day!

Relax, take a pew and celebrate a review.

Cheers, Jena for all that you do!

 

Jena’s Review of You Can’t Go It Alone

‘This is the debut novel and it is a complex and vivid tapestry of a story’

When you first see the cover of this book, I hope you like it as much as I did. Are you intrigued? A woman stands, alone and at a distance, surrounded by calm water, an expansive horizon, and a clearing sky. What does this tell you and what does the title, You Can’t Go It Alone make you think? What about the tagline- love, laughter, music and secrets…?

These features draw you into the story, don’t they?

Debut author Jessie Cahalin has created a lovely book world that blends good story telling with positivity and love. This book is what is called “character-driven”. These intriguing and captivating characters are ready to share their stories with you. The characters range from birth to the end of life. You will be drawn to their problems and secrets, hopes and dreams.

My sparkling five stars are in cyberspace

What ties them all together are two things: their village and the new arrival- Sophie, the main character. While Sophie has her own struggles, she is a caring and nurturing person and she becomes the “glue” for her family and friends.

“…join me in a toast to Sophie She is such a great addition to this community and has brought us together.”

The characters are well rounded; they do interesting things and they think about life in interesting ways. One of my favorite characters is the young neighbor girl, Daisy. She is about five years old and is at that magical age where an adorable little girl blooms and changes into a big girl. The author is spot-on with her depictions of Daisy- she abounds with energy, exuberance, and joy.

Readers will also enjoy the family of Rosa and Matteo. And I wanted to ride around the countryside with Jeanie and Max in their camper van Molly.

As an American, I enjoyed “spending time” in the village of Delfryn, in Wales. “Waiting patiently above the luscious green hills, the autumn sun looked down on the nineteenth century church.” Through the book, I “saw” the lovely scenery, mountains and historic sites, and I “visited” with friends at the charming local café. “Let’s go to the Olive Tree tonight”, was a frequent and happy exclamation. I even spent a day or two in Cardiff!

I highlighted many parts of the book and I am sure that readers will find their own favorite parts and they will bond with the characters just as I did. This book shows us the ups and downs of life. We see that family and friends can smooth the road by rejoicing in the good times and sharing their love in the harder times. I cared about the characters and I know readers will, too.

A message washed ashore with my review.

Love and romance waft their way into the story, too. The romance is mostly sweet, but there is a bit of spice, “The unmade bed became their island, clothes strewn on the floor as if washed up on the shore.”

This is the debut novel and it is a complex and vivid tapestry of a story. First books can be somewhat like the little girl Daisy- loveable, engaging, but with a few growing pains. Author Cahalin is on her way to becoming a gifted storyteller. It seems the author has planned more books so that is good news for the fictional folks of Delfryn and good news for readers! Enjoy!

Read the complete article at:

http://www.jenabooks.com/books-are-a-gift/
Get your gladrags on and celebrate.

Visit Jena’s blog at:

http://www.jenabooks.com/

 

 

 

 

Please see more at My Writing and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

 

 

Cheers! Golden Chapter Reviews with Jena C. Henry

Selecting books is a voyage of discovery for intrepid readers.  My love of books has connected me with readers around the world. A letter from an American blogger and author has opened another door on my blog.  Jena will hop on her boat to visit the latest editions to the Handbag Gallery.  Peek at the letter received from Jena C. Henry and find out how she hopes to discover new books and connect with readers.

Jena will hop on her boat to visit the latest editions to the Handbag Gallery.

Dear Books in My Handbag,

Your site is an elegant showroom of books and handbags. Even more, it is a curated collection of possibilities, opportunities and dreams. So much to explore!

The Readers Recommends page invites readers to share a composed photo of their favorite book and handbag, along with a short testimonial. My Guests presents biographies of authors.

And then there are the rollicking Handbag Adventures and My Reading reviews and the Bloggers Café pages- a potpourri of enticements for readers and writers.

The best page is the Handbag Gallery, with its beguiling photos of books and handbags. Each author has taken care to display the book to its best advantage. Over 260 captivating titles are presented, each linked to a retail site.

Am I in book lovers’ heaven? Yes! I want to read and review every book and get to know each author.  So many tempting titles, so little time- what can I do?

How about this- I will encourage other readers to join with me! Here’s what I’m thinking- I will read the first chapter of a book and post a short review, which will include questions. If you’ve read the book, please comment and share a link to your review, and/or answer my questions (without too many spoilers)! If my review encourages you to read the book, let us all know about that, too!

As Carol Drinkwater said, “I love your book blog and am honoured to be there amongst such class”.

And as our favorite author said, “You Can’t Go it Alone”.  I’m looking forward to some delightful conversations about books. The Handbag Gallery is gorgeous to view. It’s Golden! Let’s open the book covers, ruffle the pages and sing these stories.

Your book friend, Jena C. Henry

I have built a new doorway into my world of books and handbags for Jena.

Jena is right, I can’t go it alone with my Handbag Gallery.  We do need to delve into the books and find out more about what is in there.  I have built a new doorway into my world of books and handbags for Jena. In return, Jena has provided an empty golden handbag.  Apparently, the handbag belonged to her character Charli from the Gold Age of Charli series.  Jena will look at any new books in the gallery and place opening chapters in the golden handbag.  Each month Jena will feature her Golden Chapter.  Will you be the lucky author?  Jena will prioritise authors who interact with us via our blogs and social media.

Good luck! I wonder who will be placed in Jena’s golden handbag.

We invite our bookish friends to place a new book release in the Handbag Gallery and she will peek at the opening chapters. 

Good luck!  I wonder who will be placed in Jena’s golden handbag.

Let me introduce you to Jena. Jena is an author, beta reader, book blogger and reviewer.  Check out her YouTube channel where she presents a book in a minute. Here she is wearing the scarf sent to her by my character Sophie.

Let me introduce you to Jena. Here she is wearing the scarf sent to her by my character, Sophie.

Jena C. Henry is an active, optimistic gal who is a wife, mother, non-profit volunteer and bon vivant. She created the book series, The Golden Age of Charli, to encourage, entertain and share her joy of living and laughing.

Jena presents writing workshops to help creatives achieve their dreams of writing and publishing. She is a blogger, book reviewer and beta reader.

Jena C. Henry holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Akron School of Law. Now retired, she and her husband live in tropical Ohio where they enjoy their two adult children and extended family, friends and darling dog.

When she is finished tidying her house, Jena likes to relax on her front porch and read and write. She enjoys fine dining, traveling to visit family, and lounging by lovely bodies…of water. 

Contact Jena

Amazon Universal  author.to/JenaBooks

Website: http://www.jenabooks.com/book/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jenabooks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.c.henry/

Google Plus https://plus.google.com/110683677816270622079

YouTube channel  Jena C. Henry https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKHLicS_dElaiY2qhhafiLQ?view_as=subscriber

Links to my book trailers. One is 30 seconds, one is 60 second

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZLp93LwXuQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRdgxX9ZPbE

 

 

Please see my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

Lizzie Lamb’s Thoroughly Modern Romance

Reading Lizzie Lamb’s novel is akin to battling with a stubborn, smouldering fire. But, oh- the sparks, the danger and the thrill. Well done, Lizzie Lamb! DANGER FIREWORKS!

‘Two households both alike in dignity, in fair’ Door County ‘where we lay our scene / Two star-crossed lovers take their lives’ into their own hands when they meet. DANGER FIREWORKS!

‘Cool, assured India Jane Buchanan’ meets ‘a man used to having his own way.’ Logan Macfarlane looks at her ‘with such calculation’ but can he charm this lady from the Buchanan clan?  ‘What ever India Jane Buchanan set her mind to she usually achieved.’  As the ‘ancient grudge breaks to new mutiny’; get ready for a firework display in Wisconsin. Like Cathy, in Wuthering Heights she discovers something ‘wild and untamed’ about Logan.  This is a modern take on the star-crossed lovers meets Jane Austen, Bronte and sassy Jilly Cooper.  This book is best served with ice to cool down the ‘pyrotechnics’ between the feisty characters.

Escape to this glorious setting with the ‘star-crossed’ lovers

Like the Capulets and Montagues, there is a family feud between the Macfarlanes and Buchanans but be prepared for the independent spirit and opportunity seeking characters.  The historical context of the feud adds depth to the narrative.  I adore the way in which relationships from different generations are presented.  I believe our character traits are inherited and run through the generations.  The ‘couple of rogues’ who were India and Logan’s ancestors gave them the fighting spirit and the privilege.

Visit a penthouse in Chicago. I am in awe of Lizzie’s ability to bring the characters to life while carrying the reader into the heart of the conflict.

Lamb cleverly establishes the sexual tension.  This is a book with a strong female and male heroine and I loved it.  The dialogue is sheer brilliance.  I am in awe of Lizzie’s ability to bring the characters to life while carrying the reader into the heart of the conflict.  This is clever writing! Throughout this lively, controlled and confident style, I can sense the author luxuriating in the narrative, setting and characters.  How wonderful to escape to a condominium and boutique B&B with such sparky characters.

As I speeded along with the narrative, I laughed throughout.  Only a seasoned comedy writer can deliver a smart comedy with such finesse.  For instance, at a time when India does almost succumb she explains that ‘she was swooning in the sun like some Jane Austen heroine.  Glancing down, she was relieved to see her bosom wasn’t heaving in the prescribed manner.’ Hilarious modern take on this.

Besides the humour and fast-past exchanges, there are also tender moments between the characters.

Besides the humour and fast-past exchanges, there are also tender moments between the characters.  Although wealthy, both characters have suffered from emotional deficits from their parents and this is explored.  Lamb explores the background of her characters and I enjoyed getting to know them.  Presentation of both characters’ perspectives enhances the texture of the novel.  Wisdom from the older characters also presents a spotlight on love and experience. Logan’s grandfather says, ‘Procrastination is the thief of time’, and the fast pace of the novel explores this.

This is a thoroughly modern romance populated with independent, strong characters.  Logan has got ‘chutzpah’ but has been warned about Buchanan women.  So – call the fire brigade!  Reading Lizzie Lamb’s novel is akin to battling with a stubborn, smouldering fire. But, oh- the sparks, the danger and the thrill. Well done, Lizzie Lamb!

Notes:

Words in italics are remembered from my O Level studies of Romeo and Juliet’s prologue.

This is clever writing!

About Take Me, I’m Yours

India Buchanan plans to set up an English-Style bed and breakfast establishment in her great-aunt’s home, MacFarlane Landing, Wisconsin. But she’s reckoned without opposition from Logan MacFarlane whose family once owned her aunt’s house and now want it back. MacFarlane is in no mood to be denied. His grandfather’s living on borrowed time and Logan has vowed to ensure the old man sees out his days in their former home. India’s great-aunt has other ideas and has threatened to burn the house to the ground before she lets a MacFarlane set foot in it. There’s a story here. One the family elders aren’t prepared to share. When India finds herself in Logan’s debt, her feelings towards him change. However, the past casts a long shadow and events conspire to deny them the love and happiness they both deserve. Can India and Logan’s love overcome all odds? Or is history about to repeat itself?

About Lizzie:

After teaching her 1000th pupil and working as a deputy head teacher in a large primary school, Lizzie decided to pursue her first love: writing. She joined the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s New Writers’ Scheme, wrote Tall, Dark and Kilted (2012), quickly followed by Boot Camp Bride. Although much of her time is taken promoting her novels she published Scotch on the Rocks, which achieved Best Seller status within two weeks of appearing on Amazon. Her next novel, Girl in the Castle, reached #3 in the Amazon charts. Lizzie is a founder member of indie publishing group – New Romantics Press, and has co-hosted author events at Aspinall, St Pancras and Waterstones, Kensington, talking about writing and the research which underpins her novels. Lizzie’s latest romance Take Me, I’m Yours is set in Wisconsin, a part of the USA which she adores. She has further Scottish-themed romances planned and this summer will tour the Scottish Highlands in her caravan researching men in kilts. What’s not to like? As for the years she spent as a teacher, they haven’t quite gone to waste as she is building up a reputation as a go-to speaker on indie publishing, and how to plan, write, and publish a debut novel. Lizzie lives in Leicestershire (UK) with her husband, David.

 

Please see all my book reviews at Books in Handbag and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.