Today's Featured Books

Free online Tuesday: Memories at the Museum

Events

Free online: Memories at the Museum. In the virtual tour of the San Diego Museum of Art, docents with the Memories at the Museum program engage people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease and an accompanying family member or friend in discussions about artwork to stimulate visual and verbal abilities, and to spark memory. Tuesday, May 7, 2 - 3 PM PDT. 

"Gratitude is the heart's memory." ~French proverb


Pulp into Paper by Lenore Weiss

Book of the Day

In the close-knit community of Hentsbury, Arkansas, along the fictional Mud River, racism and the local paper mill’s oppressive control over the town collide in a gripping tale set in the 1990s. Rae-Ann, owner of a convenience store and unofficial mayor of Hentsbury, finds her life turned upside down when chemicals from the mill’s runoff interrupt her romance with Vernon and claim the life of Rincon, a young black boy battling asthma. From $15.33 SHOP NOW


dibs by Allison Martine

Romance

"A romance novel that will make you smile and swoon." ~Reedsy. Olivia’s ex-husband shut her down so many times before the cheating bastard left her that Olivia lost count. She didn’t realize she’d also lost the ability to banter, interpret body language, or accept that a man could find her desirable. Now she's going on a two-week training for an outdoorsy nonprofit, where a colleague has ideas that involve Olivia, the hot tub, and shared sips of bourbon. Book 1 in the series. 4.2 stars, 130 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /


Engaging Tales for Bright Boys by Casper Willow

Children and Young Adult

Calling all young adventurers! Engaging Tales for Bright Boys whisks you away on fantastical quests. Make brave friends, face exciting challenges, and explore mystical realms. Each story teaches valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the magic of discovery. This captivating collection is a must-have for any curious and adventurous mind. 4.8 stars, 37 ratings. From $0.99 SHOP NOW


The Wallflower's Secret by Rose Pearson

Romance

After a mistaken identity incident at a ball, Miss Julia Harbison becomes a wallflower and plots revenge on the man responsible, Lord Rushington, by making him fall for her—only to break his heart. However, as their mutual attraction deepens, will the truth destroy their burgeoning love or lead to forgiveness? Part of the Revenge of the Wallflowers series. 4.3 stars, 16 ratings. From $2.99 SHOP NOW


Traveler, Viator Awakens by SD Schue

Science Fiction and Fantasy

Sophie just wants to get through high school without drawing attention to herself. But her plans for a normal life are shattered when an Angel reveals she's not human, but a Viator with incredible powers that she must quickly learn to use because Lucifer's General, Damian, and his army of evil Malum are after her. Don't miss this thrilling YA urban fantasy, where Demons and Angels clash, teens discover magic, and found family is everything. Book 1 in the series. 5.0 stars, 41 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Like a Lily Among the Thorns by Karen S. Bell

Science Fiction and Fantasy

There are those who are born into loving families and then there are the less fortunate who must forge their own families through strong friendships. At a local small library in New York City, one such family was born. And just like so many capricious happenstances in life, this family unit embraced newcomers and grew exponentially. But this clan was also charged with far more than spreading love and joy and a sense of belonging. This clan was formed by divine Providence to help save the planet. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Divine Communication by Billie Woodruff

General Nonfiction

Facing adversity or trauma? Looking for guidance? Author, teacher, and dedicated mother Billie Woodruff learned to receive guidance from God and overcame extraordinary challenges and heartbreak. Now she’s here to share how you can reclaim your beautiful journey. A practical and powerful resource for anyone seeking a two-way relationship with a higher power, Woodruff’s gentle hand leads you to exactly where you need to be. Learn how to ask for and secure divinely intimate support. 4.7 stars, 53 ratings. From $0.99 SHOP NOW


Tales of Fantasy, Horror & the Paranormal from David W. Thompson

Spotlight

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on the work of David W. Thompson, author of fantasy, horror, and paranormal stories and novels that can be described as habitually dark, sometimes bloody, and always original. Read on to learn more about his writing and his background. 

★★★★★ "There is a darkness that whispers through the narrative, a sense of the tragic that is both unsettling and attractive...gripping and pulsating." ~Reader's Favorite on Sister Witch


Sister Witch

Book 1 in the Legends of the Family Dyer series
Genre: Historical Fantasy, Paranormal & Urban Fantasy
4.4 stars, 111 ratings on Goodreads
Ebook: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

Moll Dyer prays she can leave her troubles behind when she immigrates to the new world, but a paranormal threat grows, and soon follows her across the ocean to Maryland.

Colonial life in the Old Line state was tough on both man and woman. Hunger, disease, Indian attacks, and drought tested the resolve of the settlers daily. But troubles for the Dyers included the threat of a succubus on a mission! Will the demonic call initiated by her family prove too much to resist as she labors to rebuild her life in a distant land?

The legend of Moll Dyer originated in earliest colonial Maryland. Despite 300 years of civilization, and scientific reason, Moll's name is still often heard there, especially around campfires late at night, or as a warning to misbehaving little people. Her spirit is often seen as a wisp of unnatural fog in the swampy woodlands near her homestead, with her half wolf companion at her side. This is her story.

Praise for Sister Witch

★★★★★ "An outlandish, brave plot, enthralling characters and an incredibly well thought out backstory that will keep the reader wanting to read for hours on end." ~Red Headed Book Lover Review

"A story that powerfully demonstrates the irresistible pull of evil and allows the reader to follow one woman's journey as she struggles to find a suitable response to her family's evil and mysterious legacy." ~Readers' Favorite

"Engaging prose with a suitably historical feel." ~TCK Review

Call of the Falconer

Genre: Science Fiction, Mythology & Folk Tales, Dystopian Science Fiction
4.0 stars, 21 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $5.99
Ebook: $2.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

You knew this was coming. I guess we all did...

In a post-apocalyptic world, teen-aged Jeremy comes of age even as the addict Morgan tries to reclaim his lost manhood...and his forgotten humanity.

Jeremy's younger sister Alicia holds a teddy bear in her arms...and the heart of a lion beating in her chest. The monsters are real, both the human ones and the perversions of man. In the old world's rubble, an ancient legend inspires a new hero to rise, but will our intrepid trio survive until his emergence?

Call of the Falconer is a dystopian novella creating a new mythology, as the forgotten of society become its heroes.

Praise for Call of the Falconer

★★★★★ "In the tradition of Moby Dick, Ulysses, and many Stephen King stories, this first person narrator bares his soul as he shares his emotional journey." ~Readers' Favorite

"A dystopian novella for young and old alike." ~Twisted Quill Press

'Possum Stew

Genre: Fantasy Anthologies & Short Stories, Dark Fantasy Horror
4.5 stars, 18 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $16.99
Ebook: $6.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

This collection of short stories begins with the New Year and follows the seasons through all the major holidays. From dark tales inspired by ancient mythology to those flavored with cutting-edge technology, these stories are impossible to forget or put down.

Brace yourself for a journey back in time to face a Native American Wendigo! Or let the creatures hidden in the dark woods stir your blood. Fairies are sweet, gentle creatures...right? Perhaps the terrors of day-to-day life are enough. (You'll find them here too.) 'Possum Stew is the sure cure to quench your thirst for dark adventure. 

Praise for 'Possum Stew

★★★★★ "A collection of spine-tingling, chilling short stories." ~Readers' Favorite

★★★★★ "Dark poignant short stories with holiday themes." ~Amazon Germany Review
About the Author
David W. Thompson is an award-winning author, an Army veteran, and a graduate of the University of Maryland, University College. He is a member of the Horror Writers' Association, the Mystery Writers of America, and the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers Association. He lives in picturesque southern Maryland, blessed with nearby family and dear old friends. When he isn't writing, Dave enjoys time with his family, kayaking, fishing, hiking, archery, gardening, winemaking, and woodcarving. Learn more at dthompsonwrites.com


Free online Sunday: The Back Room

Events

Free online: The Back Room. Join authors Ashley Elston, Michael Koryta, K.T. Nguyen, and Kaira Rouda for this virtual cocktail party. The program begins with brief introductions, a game of 20 questions, and book recommendations from the authors. Attendees are then divided into breakout rooms that will be visited by each author. Everyone’s video is turned on and their mics are open so you can chat with the authors about whatever you like. Sunday, May 5, 6 - 8 PM CDT.

"May is the month of expectation, the month of wishes, the month of hope." ~Emily Brontë


Fashion Fatale by Nathan Finley

Book of the Day

When forensic accountant Jane Mitchell steps into the glittering world of New York's Fashion Week, she's prepared for stunning designs, not a deadly turn of events. But when a top model collapses under mysterious circumstances, Jane is plunged into an intricate web of high-end fashion, shadowy financial transactions, and dangerous liaisons. Dive deep into a thrilling narrative where every stitch reveals a secret, and the high stakes of the fashion industry meet the high risks of crime-solving. 4.8 stars, 82 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


FREE - Restoring Miss Hastings by Edwina Kiernan

Romance

Harriet Hastings has nowhere to turn. After losing her parents, she is penniless and alone. When a relative arranges for her to live with strangers, she must also leave her home. Edmund Derringer is on a mission to recover family heirlooms he lost to cover his debts. The last thing he needs is to be saddled with his cousin’s ward. But when outside forces threaten, Harriet and Edmund must examine what they believe about one another and their goals for the future. "An amazing story of two people struggling to make their lives better." ~Goodreads Review. 4.2 stars, 46 ratings on Goodreads. FREE - SHOP NOW /


Her Bold Proposition by Matilda Grei

Romance

Who says you can’t write your destiny? "Not only does she know what she wants, she knows how to get it!" ~Goodreads Review. Olivia has it all—career, beauty, but no ring. Faced with family pressure and a ticking biological clock, she hatches a plan sure to shock them all. Then comes Mr. Right Now, the enigmatic man who holds the key to her plan. In a world obsessed with finding The One, she challenges the status quo. Why wait for Mr. Right when Mr. Right Now could be the answer? "While short, it’s impactful." ~Goodreads Review. 4.5 stars, 42 ratings on Goodreads. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Mama Si's Paradise by D.N. Hoxa

Romance

In this romantic fantasy, the girls in Mama Si’s Paradise live like royalty. Real-life princesses. "Dolls" she calls them. She promises them freedom, power, and magicall lies in an effort to find a bride for one of the five Evernight brothers who rule the Seven Isles, which is all that is left of the world of magic on Earth. They’re powerful vampires, hungry for new blood, desperate for an heir, each more breathtakingly beautiful than the last—and all of them trying to make Mama Si's "doll" theirs. 4.6 stars, 20 ratings on Goodreads. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Reality Barks by Kit James

Literary Fiction and Poetry

“Great story for dog lovers” ~Amazon 5-star review. When a rescue dog with an extraordinary ability to read auras is adopted by two glossy metro couples, his new life turns into an adventure beyond anything he could have imagined. Now called Elliott, he adapts quickly to the strange quirks of his new life and takes the reader along for the ride with his humorous comments. When he discovers that one of his carers is secretly plotting to use him in a money-making scheme, Elliott must rely on his wits with hilarious consequences. 4.0 stars, 115 ratings. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


FREE - The Wizard and the Witch Queen by Lee Ellis

Science Fiction and Fantasy

Mages are extinct and spellcasting is outlawed. Heroism is a corporate endeavor choked with red tape, contracts, and cutthroat sponsorships. Space travel is readily available, but it's fueled by the enslavement of an entire species. None of that matters to Kaleb Kildash. His greatest concern is saving his village from the demon lurking in a nearby forest. But when he hitches a ride into space with a group of professional adventurers, his life, as well as the fate of every planet, are changed forever. Book 1 in the series. FREE - SHOP NOW


Farm Family by Jane Lee Rankin

Memoir and Creative Nonfiction

Farm Family: A Solo Mom’s Memoir of Finding Home, Happiness, and Alpacas is the story of a single mom’s pursuit of a dream to start an alpaca farm in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina. Armed only with a dream and a toddler, Lee starts Apple Hill Farm. She learns that her connection to animals is more vital than she knew, and with bravery and persistence, she creates a home—a farm family. 4.6 stars, 25 ratings on Goodreads. From $0.99 SHOP NOW


The Cultist's Wife by BJ Sikes

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

New release! In 1908, at the height of the British Empire, Clara's long-absent husband summons her to join him at his eerie sect's headquarters in the Bahamas. After a harrowing sea voyage, Clara and her children arrive. The children explore the marvels and mysteries of Andros Island, while Clara struggles to find her place as a woman within the cult. But what seems at first to be a spiritual haven reveals itself to be a monster-worshipping cult intent on draining her family of more than their fortune. From $1.99. SHOP NOW


FREE - The Age of the End by Tim Facciola

Science Fiction and Fantasy

New release! A Vengeful Realm: Book 3. The Skeleton King has come to New Rheynia’s shores. He and his legions will stop at nothing to consume every soul in the mortal realm. Regardless if they’re Valencian or Celestic, Rheynians or Helms, free or enslaved peoples, everyone must join together if they hope to outlast the apocalypse. Bonds of friendship and love will be tested. Chains of guilt and disdain will come undone. One way or another, the scales will be set right, and nothing will ever be the same again. FREE - SHOP NOW


Embers of Shadow by Lloyd Jeffries

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

New release! Rhyme Carter faces the fight of her life to escape the clutches of her evil husband, the FBI, and a secret society hellbent on world domination. Emery Merrick watches in horror as the Antichrist launches an international coup that changes the course of humanity forever. In a race against time, Book III in the superlative, award-winning Ages of Malice series continues the saga of a downtrodden journalist enlisted to write the biography of a madman. 4.7 stars, 14 ratings. From $0.99 SHOP NOW


Spotlight on The Bourbon Books: A "charming and steamy" RomCom series from Allison Martine

Spotlight

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Bourbon Books, a fun romantic comedy series from author Allison Martine. To make the series even more appealing, you can purchase each title in e-book format for only 99 cents (free via Kindle Unlimited)! Read on to learn more about the series and the author.

★★★★★ "Realistic romance with sexy moments and delicious humor." ~Amazon Review of dibs, Book 1 of The Bourbon Books


dibs

Book 1 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.23 stars, 137 ratings on Goodreads
4.2 stars, 130 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

Not tonight, Olivia.

Olivia’s ex-husband shut her down so many times before the cheating bastard left her that Olivia lost count. She didn’t realize she’d also lost the ability to banter, interpret body language, or accept that a man could find her desirable. None of that should matter when she leaves for a two-week training for her new job with the Ranchers, an outdoorsy nonprofit, but when her co-worker adds ‘halter top’ and ‘bikini’ to the official pack list, she has no idea what to expect on this trip.

It certainly wasn’t a perky blonde roommate who thinks their training is like spring break, but with a paycheck. It wasn’t the after-hours hot tub. It absolutely wasn’t the man with a rumble for a laugh who shows up on her flight and introduces himself as the colleague she didn’t know would be her companion for the next two weeks.

When blondie calls dibs on that same colleague, Olivia just wants to stay out of her way, but her colleague has ideas of his own. Ideas which involve Olivia, the hot tub, and shared sips of bourbon.

Praise for dibs

  • Best RomCom, N.N. Light Book Award
  • Finalist - Romance, Kindle Book Awards
  • "A romance novel that will make you smile and swoon." ~Reedsy.
  • ★★★★★ "Cute contemporary romance!" ~Goodreads Review
  • ★★★★★ "A Hint of spice, a dollop of barbeque sauce, and a glass of good bourbon." ~Amazon Review

Since September

Book 2 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.29 stars, 49 ratings on Goodreads
4.3 stars, 44 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $13.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

Most brides dream of planning every last detail of their wedding. Not Olivia Markham. She’d been down the aisle once already and regretted that decision, along with every other judgment call connected with her unfaithful ex. But she also never planned on falling for Adam Burkhardt, who proposed sooner than anyone could have guessed.

When Adam suggests letting their mothers suss out the particulars for their big day, Olivia agrees, hoping it will assuage their mothers’ trepidation towards their upcoming union. She even relents to having a bachelorette weekend, for the sake of her friends. Olivia shall endure more nuptial nonsense and play bride once again.

They should have eloped.

Praise for Since September

  • ★★★★★ "A fun-filled, delightful, and swoon-worthy sequel!" ~Amazon Review
  • ★★★★★ "An amusing and easy read romance tale." ~Bedside Book Review

Move On, Melinda

Book 3 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.62 stars, 21 ratings on Goodreads
4.7 stars, 25 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

There are worse things than being a bridesmaid at your best friend’s wedding. Hitting on the groom? Ancient history. Hitting on the best man? Regrettable but forgettable. Getting pawned off on some random guy who came as his mom’s date? Could be worse. But more happened the night of the Burkhardt wedding than Melinda is ready to admit.

Now, Melinda is determined to move forward and leave all that behind. She just has to survive the Ranchers’ All Staff Retreat, carpooling with her meddling boss, the fresh-from-their honeymoon newlyweds, and a certain unexpected passenger she’d hoped to avoid for the weekend—and the memories he stirs up.

Praise for Move On, Melinda

  • ★★★★★ "A charming, well-written modern romance." ~Goodreads Review
  • ★★★★★ "The Bourbon Books keep getting better and better...and sexier and sexier!" ~Amazon Review

Climb the Salmon Ladder

Book 4 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.69 stars, 16 ratings on Goodreads
4.6 stars, 17 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

Jamie Wallace was settled, not settling. Good job, great friends, and a glass of wine was all she needed for her little slice of heaven. Sure, everyone around her was pairing off like they’d just announced it was time to board Noah’s Ark, but Jamie never minded a little rain. But when a curveball out of left field blindsides her, knocking her long game out the window, she’ll have to scramble—and pack her bags.

Bolstered by unlikely allies, she’s got to prove herself, and keep her eye on the prize. That same eye needs to stop wandering to check out the competition. She’s come to fight for the life she’s earned, not share after-hours Malbec in her hotel room.

She’ll summon everything she has—from her no-nonsense attitude to her years of true leadership—to manifest her destiny. No matter what. Even if she’s no longer sure what that destiny should be.

Praise for Climb the Salmon Ladder

  • ★★★★★ "The best installment in this romance series yet." ~Amazon Review
  • ★★★★★ "Heart, humor, and just enough heat to make us impatiently wonder when the next book will drop." ~Goodreads Review

The Bourbon Books
Get the entire series of four books for Kindle for $3.96!





About the Author
Allison Martine is a multi-genre novelist. She hosts the literary podcast, TO THE MOON, ALLISON, and co-hosts the live weekly video podcast, VOX VOMITUS, interviewing bestselling authors and other creatives. Learn more at afictionalhubbard.com, sign up for her newsletter, and be sure to follow Allison online: 
 
        


Free online tonight: Friends & Fiction

Events

Free online tonight: Friends & Fiction. Join the hosts of this popular web show as they interview bestselling authors. Tonight's guest: Janet Skeslien Charles, a New York Times and international bestselling author whose work has been translated into 37 languages. Wednesday, May 1, 7 PM EST.

"Books and ideas are like blood; they need to circulate, and they keep us alive." ~Janet Skeslien Charles, The Paris Library


FREE - Engaging Miss Shaw by Rachel Knowles

Romance

Bath 1815: All John Derringer wants is to disappear into his research. But after his brother's death, he must take on the family estate and care for his orphaned nephew. When Evelina Shaw hears of Mr. Derringer’s need for a governess, she seizes the opportunity to escape from her sister’s matchmaking. But as her life becomes entwined with the Derringer family, neither she nor John can predict the consequences. "A fabulous storyline with twists, transformations, and tender romance." ~Amazon Review. 4.5 stars, 67 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW


A Shoe is to Chew by Siski Kalla

Children and Young Adult

A laugh-out-loud look at how dogs might define everyday objects and activities, in contrast with how we 'hoomans' describe the very same things! With bold, vibrant illustrations, this book will delight readers young and old who will recognize their own furry friends and their unique view of the world. With a customizable section, this is the ideal gift for dog lovers and pawrents. 4.9 stars, 18 ratings. From $1.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


The Icehouse by J.J. Richards

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

After a body turns up in the sleepy village of Rufford, DCI Jonathan Walker returns from leave early, his experience deemed crucial for the case. But when the investigation leads to a decades-old cold case involving the murder of his sister, the crime becomes personal. Book 1 in the series. 4.1 stars, 761 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW