Latest Reviews, Interviews & Writing Tips

Join bookpleasures.com for an interview with Martin Sneider, author of Amy Unbound. Martin was a luminary in the shoe and clothing industries spanning over five decades.


Since 1992, Martin has been an adjunct professor at Washington University's Olin School of Business, renowned for his creation and instruction of a groundbreaking course centered on luxury goods merchandising and marketing.

His innovative approach included immersive trips to Milan, Paris, and London, where students explored the showrooms of iconic brands like Armani, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Burberry, and Cartier.

A scion of retail, Martin began his journey as a humble shoe salesman, ascending to the heights of president, chief merchant, and co-CEO of one of the nation's foremost fashion and shoe apparel specialty chains.

His contributions extend beyond the boardroom, having served on the Alumni Board of Directors of Harvard Business School and as chairman of St. Louis Children's Hospital. Martin's distinguished career has been recognized with the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award from Washington University.

Not content with industry accolades alone, Martin is also an accomplished author, celebrated for his debut novel "Shelf Life" and its sequel "Amy Unbound." He has also penned a compelling nonfiction work delving into the intricacies of the shoe industry.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Martin cherishes his role as a family man, with two children and four granddaughters. Splitting his time between St. Louis, Missouri, and New York City, Martin continues to be a beacon of knowledge and innovation in the world of fashion and business. Join us as we delve into his remarkable journey and glean insights from his wealth of experience.



Author: Martin Sneider

Publisher: Jewish Leaders Books (June 4, 2024)

ISBN: 979-8-9897761-08





Author: Becky Hunter

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing

ISBN: 9781538741757





Author: Shelly Frome

Publisher: Boutique of Quality Books (Feb 6, 2024)

ISBN: 979-8886330267



Author: Carola Lovering

Publisher: St. Martin’s Press

ISBN: 9781250289360




Author: Ariel Lawhon

Publisher: Anchor

ISBN: 978-1101973318





Welcome to our chat with John McNellis, the talented author behind his latest novel Scout's Honor. 

Known for his ability to spin engaging tales with unforgettable characters.




Embark on an enthralling journey with John McNellis’s latest novel, Scout’s Honor!


Bookpleasures.com welcomes our guest, Kevin G. Chapman, whose newest novel, The Other Murder, has just been published.

Kevin is an accomplished attorney specializing in labor and employment law and a prolific independent author. 

Currently immersed in the creation of the Mike Stoneman Thriller series, Kevin’s debut novel, Righteous Assassin (Mike Stoneman Thriller #1), earned accolades as one of the top 20 Mystery/Thrillers of 2019 by the Kindle Book Review and was a finalist for the Chanticleer Book Review CLUE award. Since then, Kevin’s books have been the winners of the 2021 Kindle Book Award (Lethal Voyage, Mike Stoneman #3), the 2022 CLUE Award - best police procedural (Fatal Infraction, Mike Stoneman #4); and the 2023 CLUE Award - best suspense/thriller (Dead Winner).





Author: Kevin G. Chapman

Publisher: First Legacy Publishing

ISBN: 978-1-958339-18-3






Author: Beth Moran: 

ISBN: 978-1804833605




Author: Lloyd Lofthouse

Publisher:  Three Clover Press

ISBN: 979-8988505709


A Journey Through Lloyd Lofthouse's Remarkable Life and Career





Ten Things You May Not Know about Lloyd Lofthouse

Guest Post for Bee Lindy of Book Pleasures




Author: Khanh Ha

Publisher:  Gival Press

ISBN: 978-1940724454




Bookpleasures.com welcomes our guest, J.T. Maicke whose newest novel, Iron Maiden, was just released in October. A self-described Germanophile, 

J.T. Maicke writes historical fiction novels that take place in Germany or among German-American communities in the Midwest. He has spent most of his life studying German history, geography, language, culture, customs, and cuisine. Maicke also spent several years living in and traveling throughout Central Europe, and he has visited many of the locations depicted in his novels. Maicke’s debut novel was ‘The Humble Courier.’



Author: J.T. Maicke

Publisher:  DX Varos Publishing, Inc

ISBN: 978-1955065917





Title: Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning 

Author: Peter Brown

ISBN: 978-0674729018




Author: Ken Czech

Publisher:  Fireship Press

ISBN: 978-1611794113



Can one imagine living next to a neighbor who holds dangerous anti-Semitic views?


Poet: Charles Dowling Williams
ISBN: 9781737639534

Upon delving into award-winning Kentucky native Charles D. Williams’ recent Haiku collection, Visible Magic, I was immediately captivated by his remarkable ability to distill the intricacies of human experience and the natural world into concise words, evoking moments of profound reflection and connection.



Williams takes us on a captivating journey through all four seasons, skillfully crafting Haiku that serve as vivid snapshots of the changing tapestry of nature. 

Drawing inspiration from decades of farm journal entries, his keen observations and profound reverence for the natural world shine through in each poem. Beyond mere description, his verses interweave the elements of farm life, the changing landscape, and the interconnectedness of nature. 

For those unfamiliar with Haiku, it is a traditional Japanese poetry form celebrated for its brevity and simplicity. Its charm lies in its capacity to encapsulate a moment or evoke a feeling with a few words. 

Haiku comes from a kind of Buddhism called Zen, which likes being in the present moment and finding beauty in ordinary things. Additionally, the poems explore universal themes such as impermanence and the cyclical nature of life. These broader concepts make haikus resonate with individuals across diverse cultures, fostering a connection through shared emotions and experiences. 

The poems are concise, just three lines with a certain number of syllables in each line. This brevity makes Haiku writers focus on the most critical parts of their thoughts. It often talks about nature and the seasons, using words that show the time of year. 

For example, if we refer to Williams’ opening of his collection, “Summer,” we notice the vivid snapshot of the season.

first dawn of summer-

basso profundo choice

old buildings singing

sleepy summer rain

hillside of ox-eye daisies

a Buddha napping."

With a classic 5-7-5 syllable structure, the poem beautifully captures the first dawn of summer, old buildings singing with nostalgia, sleepy summer rain, a hillside adorned with ox-eye daisies, and a tranquil scene of a Buddha napping. The brevity enhances the impact, promising readers a collection that reflects on the simplicity and beauty of summer, weaving together rich sensory details and moments of reflection.

The beauty of Haiku and Williams’ poems is that although brief, they make you feel deep emotions and reflect. Using simple words and pictures lets your imagination see different things in the verse.

Another example from Williams’ collection is the following: 

last day of winter-

viewing my neighbor’s spring lambs

their ears twitch sideways.”

Here, he captures the essence of transition and the cyclical nature of seasons, from winter to spring. He begins on the “last day of winter” by observing “spring lambs” in a neighbor’s surroundings. Williams adds a vivid touch by mentioning the lambs’ ears twitching sideways, making the scene more alive for readers. In addition, there is also a subtle sense of community as he focuses on the neighbor’s lambs, suggesting a shared appreciation for nature. 

The tone shifts positively, signaling renewal and hope with the arrival of spring. Williams’ simplicity of language and imagery invites readers to reflect on the beauty of nature’s cycles and shared experiences within a community. 

The poem is undoubtedly open to interpretation, allowing readers to bring their own emotions and experiences to the poem. 

In the 28 September 2022 entry we have a great example of how a short poem can express deep feelings. It discusses a specific day four months later, describing eight lively puppies and comparing their barking to a joyful “Hallelujah Chorus.” This Haiku shows how poetry can capture the happiness of memorable moments, even in a few words. It’s a simple and beautiful illustration of how language can convey the magic of fleeting experiences. 

eight big pups barking

their Hallelujah Chorus-

the sound of blessings.”

These are only a few examples of William’s Haikus, each serving as poetic snapshots that skillfully distill moments of nature, transition, and joy into concise and evocative verses. Through the simplicity of language and vivid imagery, these haikus capture the beauty of fleeting experiences and invite readers to reflect, fostering a shared appreciation for the profound emotions woven into the tapestry of everyday life. 

Williams’ concise poems stir profound emotions and provide contemplative moments, rendering Visible Magic essential for anyone eager to delve into the captivating influence of Haiku and its exploration of universal themes. Grab a copy of Visible Magic and submerge yourself in short powerful moments where a few lines of verse capture deep feelings and the beauty of life. It's like taking a quiet break from the noise, finding pictures and emotions painted with simple words that stay with you.

Follow Here To Read Norm's Interview With Charles Dowling Williams








Bookpleasures.com is delighted to host Charles D. Williams, a distinguished author and nationally-recognized Tree Farmer hailing from Kentucky. Williams, known for his acclaimed work “Echo Ridge,” has recently unveiled his latest masterpiece, “Visible Magic.” 
This captivating collection of haikus builds upon the success of his award-winning predecessor.


Author: Marie Benedict

ISBN: 978-1492666899





Title: Dungeons and Drama

Author: Kristy Boyce

Publisher: Delacorte Press

ISBN: 9780593647011


A recent reader survey conducted by Wakefield Research for Wattpad reveals intriguing insights into the preferences and perspectives of readers across generations:



Author: Kanchan Bhaskar

Publisher: She Writes Press 

ISBN: 979-1-64742-475-6


Bookpleasures.com is honored to introduce a renowned author, educator, and visionary leader, Dr. Sam Adeyemi.


Hailing from Atlanta, Dr. Sam Adeyemi is a prominent figure in executive leadership and mentorship. As the founder and director of the esteemed Daystar Leadership Academy (DLA), he has impacted the lives of more than 45,000 alumni who have graduated from DLA programs. His global influence extends to over 3 million CEOs and high-performing professionals who follow his wisdom across every leading social media platform.

Dr. Sam’s latest literary offering, Dear Leader: Your Flagship Guide to Successful Leadership, is captivating readers and redefining how we perceive and practice leadership. With a doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Virginia’s prestigious Regent University and an active membership in the International Leadership Association, Dr. Sam Adeyemi brings both conceptual knowledge and practical experience to the forefront of leadership discussions.

Alongside his wife, Nike Adeyemi, Dr. Sam co-founded the Daystar Christian Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, a testament to their collective commitment to community and spiritual well-being. As a dedicated family man and a leader who inspires positive change on a global scale, Dr. Sam Adeyemi’s journey and insights are nothing short of extraordinary.

Today, we’re privileged to explore his latest book and hear from the man himself about his fascinating perspective on successful leadership. Welcome, Dr. Sam!





Bookpleasures.com is delighted to host Garrison Keillor, the esteemed American author, storyteller, humorist, and radio personality, who has secured a lasting spot in the affections of audiences globally.

For those familiar with Keillor's extensive career, his renowned radio show, "A Prairie Home Companion," debuted in 1974 and concluded in 2017. 

The program showcased a delightful blend of comedic sketches, musical acts, and his distinctive monologue, "The News from Lake Wobegon," set in a fictional Minnesota town that played a pivotal role in the show's charm.

Garrison has recently published Cheerfulness  .


Author: Garrison Keillor

Publisher: Prairie Home Productions

ISBN: 979-8-9882818-0-1

Garrison Keillor, the renowned American author, storyteller, humorist, and radio personality, has long held a place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Some of us may remember Keillor’s radio show, A Prairie Home Companion, premiered in 1974 and ended in 2017. It featured a mix of comedy sketches, musical performances, and his signature monologue, “The News from Lake Wobegon,” a fictional Minnesota town that became a central element of the show.




A Multilingual JourneyThrough Jewish Culture

Editor: Nora Gold

ISBN: 979-8-68719-206-2

Nora Gold’s 18: Jewish Stories Translated from 18 Languages is a multilingual journey through Jewish culture. The anthology is a remarkable and groundbreaking anthology that adds a vibrant and essential dimension to Jewish literature. 

Gold’s curation allows readers to explore the vastness of Jewish culture through the eyes of renowned authors, offering a collection that is not only culturally enriching but also universally resonant. 

And it is not just for Jewish readers; it is a must-read for all lovers of stories illuminating the human experience in all its complexity.

Embark on a literary journey that spans the globe as you delve into a collection of writings penned by various authors. Hailing from nations such as France, Israel, Hungary, Croatia, Poland, Albania, Italy, Germany, Romania, Portugal, Spain, Denmark, Czechoslovakia, Greece, and Turkey, these writers share their perspectives in languages beyond English. The anthology comprises a rich tapestry of cultural voices, offering readers a captivating exploration of global narratives.



Bookpleasures.com is delighted to host James D. Bell, the accomplished author behind BeeBop: The Honeybee Wannabee Hero.

Widely recognized for his acclaimed and bestselling work, Vampire Defense, James brings much experience to the literary world.

 His distinguished career as a retired County, Circuit, and Chancery Judge in Mississippi, marked by numerous accolades, includes the remarkable achievement of being the youngest trial judge in state history. James’s novels are infused with authenticity, drawing inspiration from his involvement in some of the state’s most significant legal cases.

 Beyond his legal prowess, James’s diverse background, as the son of an American Indian mother and a prominent local businessman, adds a unique dimension to the tapestry of his storytelling.

His narratives are not only shaped by his professional experiences but also by his rich heritage. Devoted to his wife, Joanne, and residing near Crystal Springs, Mississippi, James leads a vibrant personal life that complements his impressive literary accomplishments.


Author: James D. Bell

ISBN: 9798846879508




The Universal Appeal of The Rocking Chair Prophet: Delve into the timeless elements and enduring messages in Matthew Kelly's book that make it relevant for readers of all ages, addressing topics central to the human condition




Bookpleaures.com welcomes as our guest Michael Ryan Hahn. This is Michael’s debut novel and the first in a planned 7-part series, The Anthem of Ash & Pistols.


He previously wrote a standalone horror novella called Children of the Storm.

He recently released an adventure podcast in the style of old radio plays called Fire Pockets.

His stories aim to weave exciting action with humor and heart, with complicated villains—probably because of his upbringing. He comes from a big ol' raucous family, and he survived a shockingly bruising (but not altogether unfun) cadre of violently delinquent Boy Scouts to become an Eagle Scout. He loves fight scenes.

He lives in Los Angeles with his wife. In his spare time, he designs custom habitats for cats.

The habitats are highly popular with the cats.




Author: Michael Ryan Hahn
‎Publisher: Swashbuckle Holdings (August, 2023)
ISBN: ‎ 978-1962089005


Title: Christy

Author: Catherine Marshall

ISBN: 978-1-68370-132-3


Author: R.J.Koreto

Publisher: Level Best Books 2023

ISBN: 978-1-68512-411-3




Bookpleasures.com is excited to introduce Chris Weatherman, also known as Angery American, an accomplished author and seasoned expert in the world of survival and prepping. 

With a literary portfolio comprising twenty-three published works and a remarkable track record of USA Today Best Sellers like Forsaking Home and Resurrecting Home, Chris has earned his place as a prominent figure in the prepper community.

Best known for his phenomenal Survivalist Series™, which commenced with the riveting Going Home, Chris's books have collectively sold over one million copies worldwide, captivating readers with his gripping tales of survival and preparedness. 






In a recent interview, I had the privilege of engaging in a comprehensive discussion about the Gen Z recruitment challenge with Second Lieutenant Matthew Weiss.

Matthew, a dedicated Intelligence Officer in the United States Marine Corps and the author of We Don't Want YOU, Uncle Sam, offered invaluable insights into this critical issue and presented innovative solutions.


In the dynamic world ofliterature, there exists a realm where authors wield their creative prowess to redefine norms and take readers on unique voyages. 

Josiah Hatch, III, the versatile wordsmith hailing from Savannah, Georgia, has recently made a striking mark in this realm. His latest work, A Journey to St. Thomas: Tales for Our Time, serves as a testament to his multifaceted talents, drawing inspiration from a diverse educational background, a dynamic career, and an unwavering passion for storytelling.

In this summary, we explore the captivating interview I had with Josiah, where he shares insights into his remarkable journey, the literary influences that have shaped his work, and the intricate process of crafting a modern narrative inspired by Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales

A Journey to St. Thomas stands as the focal point of our exploration, bridging the gap between the past and present, offering readers a distinctive literary experience that resonates with contemporary themes.



In a world often marked bydivision and strife, the extraordinary life and wisdom of Satish Kumar stand as a shining beacon of hope. 

The visionary author of Radical Love: From Separation to Connection with the Earth, Each Other, and Ourselves recently shared his profound insights and experiences with Bookpleasures.com, offering readers a glimpse into his remarkable journey and philosophy. Satish Kumar’s path is an odyssey spanning over five decades, a journey filled with unwavering commitment to peace, sustainability, and spiritual fulfillment. 








Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Erica Miner, a multifaceted talent who has led an extraordinary life, traversing the realms of music, writing, and academia.

With a career that began as a violinist, honing her skills under the guidance of legendary figures in the music world, Erica has undoubtedly lived a life steeped in artistic excellence.

Erica graduated cum laude from Boston University. She continued her musical journey at the New England Conservatory of Music and the prestigious Tanglewood Music Center, where she performed alongside icons like Leonard Bernstein.




Bookpleasures.com welcomes our guest, Judy Reeves, an accomplished writer and teacher.


Her notable books, including A Writer’s Book of Days, have earned awards and recognition. Judy’s writing spans fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, appearing in various journals and anthologies. 

As a seasoned creative writing teacher, she’s influenced countless writers and co-founded San Diego Writers Ink

Judy’s contributions have been acknowledged with awards from multiple organizations, and she even has a day named after her by Mayor Jerry Sanders in San Diego. 

Judy has just published WHEN YOUR HEART SAYS GO: My Year of Traveling Beyond Loss and Loneliness.



Bookpleasures.com welcomes as our guest, Rick Novak MD. Rick is a distinguished Stanford physician, holding board certifications in anesthesiology and internal medicine. 

His expertise and dedication extend to his role as an Adjunct Clinical Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at Stanford University. 

Beyond academia, he serves as the Medical Director at the prestigious Waverley Surgery Center in Palo Alto, California, and is a valued member of the Associated Anesthesiologists Medical Group in the same region.

Rick is not only a distinguished medical professional but also an accomplished author. He has shared his talents with the literary world through several captivating novels, including The Doctor and Mr. Dylan, Doctor Vita, and his most recent literary endeavor, Call From the Jailhouse.










Author: Rick Novak

Publisher: Extasy Books

ISBN: 978-1-4874-3951-4




Meet Deidre Gartner, who has recently published Dearest New York: A Love Letter to the Big Apple, a literary treasure that invites readers to experience the heart and soul of the city that never sleeps.

Deirdre is a New York City native, bred and raised in the heart of Manhattan. 

Before her foray into the world of literature, she embarked on a career as a fashion executive, traversing the globe and experiencing the rich tapestry of cultures that make our world so diverse. 

Yet, for Deirdre, nothing could compare to the exhilaration and inspiration she felt every time she returned to her beloved Manhattan. 

Her globetrotting adventures, while enriching, only intensified her devotion to the vibrant streets of New York.






Welcome to today’s interview, where we have the privilege of speaking with two remarkable individuals who are deeply involved in a partnership that is profoundly impacting the lives of teenager impacted by incarceration. 

The PATHfinder Club and POPS the Club have come together with a shared mission to foster and empower young people facing adversity, and our guests today have played pivotal roles in this collaboration.



First, we have Amy Friedman, a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and a dedicated leader in POPS/the Club/The PATHfinder Club. Amy has spent several years working tirelessly to create opportunities and guide teenagers who often face significant life challenges. 

Amy is an author and criminal justice activist. In 2013, she and her husband, Dennis Danziger, a writer and high school teacher, established POPS the Club as an all-encompassing environment for young people who have been marginalized and muted due to their involvement with the prison system. 

Amy founded POPS the Club as a nonprofit to create and support clubs for teens who have been impacted by incarceration, primarily the children and other loved ones of the incarcerated and deported.

From a single club at Venice High School in Los Angeles, POPS the Club expanded to schools across the country. On 1 February 2023, The Pathfinder Network assumed responsibility for the operations and management of all POPS the Club programming. 

The next guest on our list is Leticia Longoria-Navarro. Leticia is the Executive Director of The Pathfinder Network.


This nonprofit provides justice system-impacted individuals and families with the tools and support they need to be safe and thrive in our communities. 

Having been affected by parental and family incarceration, Leticia is an expert on the profound impact of incarceration on the whole family. She is an advocate and founding team member of The PATHfinder Club.

Both are here to discuss The Pathfinder Club, POPS, and the recent publication Advice to 9th Graders: Stories, Poetry, Art & Other Wisdom, from Out of the Woods Press, the publishing arm of The Pathfinder Network.


Advice to 9th Graders:Stories, Poetry, Art & Other Wisdom is not just a book; it’s a treasure trove of inspiration for young minds about to embark on their high school adventure.

This anthology is a colorful mosaic of teenage creativity, a testament to the power of youthful voices, and a lifeline of support for those standing at the threshold of high school.

Author: Lisa Feldman Barrett

Publisher: ‏Harper Paperbacks

ISBN: 978-1328915436




Bookpleasures.com is pleased to introduce our guest today, Kim Wickens, who is passionate about the legal world and the equestrian realm. Kim is not only an accomplished lawyer but also a dedicated dressage rider. 

However, what sets her apart is her deep fascination with a legendary horse that has left a significant mark on the world of Thoroughbred racing.

When Kim discovered that an astonishing twelve out of thirteen Triple Crown winners in Thoroughbred racing history descended from one exceptional stallion named Lexington, her curiosity was piqued. 

This discovery sparked years of meticulous research, during which Kim delved into the horse’s captivating legacy. 

Today, we have the privilege of exploring the pages of her absorbing and exciting account, Lexington: The Extraordinary Life and Turbulent Times of America’s Legendary Racehorse, which takes us on a journey back to the raucous beginnings of American horse racing and introduces us to the magnificent stallion at the very heart of this incredible story.





Bookpleasures.com welcomes as our guest Scott Fad, author of King of Nod. Scott is a multifaceted individual whose remarkable journey through life has led him to wear many hats, each with its unique story to tell. 

He is not just an award-winning novelist but also an accomplished artist and a retired health plan executive. 

Beyond his professional achievements, he has a colorful past that includes stints as a bouncer, bricklayer, boxer, black belt holder, and marathoner.


A loving father of two, Scott’s life has taken him from the streets of Newark, Delaware, where he originally hails, to the halls of academia as a graduate of the University of Delaware. 

Today, he continues to explore his passions, which include writing, painting, fishing, and running a successful consulting business. 

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Scott Fad, where art, literature, and diverse life experiences converge to create a truly inspiring narrative.


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