Sundays are for reading

For many people, Sundays are a day of rest and relaxation. It’s a day to recharge and prepare for the week ahead. One of the best ways to unwind on a lazy Sunday is to pick up a good book and get lost in a new world. Here are some tips for relaxing reading on Sundays:

  1. Find a cozy spot: Whether it’s a comfortable chair or a sunny spot in the garden, finding a cozy spot to curl up with your book is key to relaxing reading.
  2. Choose a book you’re excited to read: There’s nothing better than getting lost in a book you’re truly excited about. So, pick up a book that’s been on your to-read list for a while or try something new in a genre you love.
  3. Set aside distractions: Turn off your phone, log out of social media, and let yourself focus solely on the book in front of you.
  4. Take breaks: Even on a lazy Sunday, it’s important to take breaks and stretch your legs. Take a walk, do some yoga or just move around for a few minutes to keep your mind and body refreshed.
  5. Make it a habit: If you find that you truly enjoy relaxing reading on Sundays, make it a habit! Set aside time each week to indulge in your favorite books and let yourself unwind.

Relaxing reading on Sundays is a great way to recharge, de-stress, and escape into new worlds. So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and let yourself get lost in a good book. Happy reading!

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A justification for reading before bed.

Reading is a relaxing and enjoyable activity that can help you unwind after a long day. One of the best times to read is right before bed. Not only is it a great way to de-stress and relax your mind, but it also has numerous benefits for your overall health and wellbeing. In this blog post, we’ll explore why reading before bed is a great habit to adopt, as well as some tips on how to make the most of your bedtime reading routine.

  1. Helps you relax and fall asleep faster

Reading before bed can help you relax and unwind, which in turn can help you fall asleep faster. When you read, your mind is transported to a different world, allowing you to forget about the stress and worries of the day. This can help you quiet your mind and get into a more relaxed state, making it easier to drift off to sleep.

  1. Reduces stress and anxiety

Reading can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common causes of insomnia and other sleep disorders. By focusing on a good book, you can take your mind off of any worries or stressors that might be keeping you awake, helping you to feel more calm and relaxed.

  1. Improves cognitive function

Reading before bed can also have a positive impact on your cognitive function. Regular reading has been shown to improve brain function, including memory, focus, and concentration. This can help you stay sharp and alert during the day, while also improving your overall mental health.

  1. Boosts creativity and imagination

Reading before bed can also help boost your creativity and imagination. Reading allows you to explore new worlds and ideas, inspiring you to think outside the box and come up with new and innovative ideas. This can be especially beneficial for those who work in creative fields, such as writers, artists, and designers.

Tips for making the most of your bedtime reading routine:

  1. Set a regular reading schedule: Make reading before bed a regular habit by setting aside a specific time each night for your reading session.
  2. Choose the right book: Choose a book that is relaxing and enjoyable to read, but not so engaging that you won’t be able to put it down.
  3. Create a comfortable reading environment: Make sure you’re comfortable while reading, whether that means propping up pillows or adjusting the lighting in your bedroom.
  4. Avoid screens: Try to avoid reading on electronic devices, as the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your sleep.
  5. Don’t stress about finishing the book: Remember, the goal of bedtime reading is to relax and unwind, so don’t stress about finishing the book or trying to read for a specific amount of time.

Reading before bed is a great habit to adopt for both your mental and physical health. By taking the time to unwind with a good book, you can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, boost creativity, and improve your overall sleep quality. So why not start tonight? Grab a good book and get ready to drift off into a peaceful night’s sleep.

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For those who struggle to write

Words flow freely from the pen,

Crafted with care and thought again,

But once they’re out, where do they land?

In a world of noise and shifting sands.

Struggling as a writer, to find a way,

To reach out and connect, day by day,

To touch the hearts and minds of all,

And make them hear your writer’s call.

It’s a challenge, but don’t give in,

Keep writing, let the words begin,

For one day, a connection will be made,

And all your struggles will surely fade.

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10 Fantasy books that will change your thinking

Fantasy literature is often dismissed as mere escapism, but the truth is that the genre has the power to challenge our assumptions, expand our imaginations, and change the way we think about the world. Here are ten fantasy books that have the potential to do just that:

  1. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien: This classic epic fantasy is more than just a thrilling adventure story. Its themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil can inspire readers to think deeply about what it means to live a meaningful life.
  2. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin: This coming-of-age story follows the journey of a young wizard as he grapples with power, responsibility, and the consequences of his actions. Its exploration of the nature of magic and the human psyche is thought-provoking and profound.
  3. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood: This dystopian novel may not seem like a typical fantasy book, but its themes of gender, power, and oppression are just as relevant to the genre. Atwood’s powerful prose and incisive social commentary make this a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of fantasy and politics.
  4. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss: This lyrical, beautifully crafted novel is a masterclass in world-building and character development. Its protagonist, the enigmatic Kvothe, is a flawed and complex hero whose journey will resonate with readers long after the last page.
  5. The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin: This series of novels and short stories set in the same universe as A Wizard of Earthsea explore themes of power, identity, and morality through the eyes of a diverse cast of characters. Le Guin’s writing is rich, nuanced, and thought-provoking.
  6. The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin: This groundbreaking series reimagines the conventions of epic fantasy through the lens of race, gender, and social justice. Its world-building is both intricate and immersive, and its exploration of power and oppression is both timely and timeless.
  7. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis: This beloved children’s series is often dismissed as simplistic or didactic, but its themes of faith, courage, and sacrifice are just as relevant to adults as they are to children. Its exploration of the nature of evil and the power of redemption is both moving and inspiring.
  8. The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss: This sprawling, multi-layered series follows the life of Kvothe, a legendary wizard and musician, as he recounts his adventures to a chronicler. Its intricate plot, vivid characters, and lyrical prose make it a standout in the fantasy genre.
  9. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: This dystopian series explores themes of power, inequality, and resistance through the eyes of a young heroine fighting for survival in a brutal, totalitarian society. Its vivid depiction of a world gone wrong is both gripping and disturbing.
  10. The Gormenghast Trilogy by Mervyn Peake: This surreal, Gothic series is a tour de force of imagination and language. Its vivid descriptions of a decaying castle and its bizarre inhabitants are both unsettling and mesmerizing, and its exploration of power and identity is both haunting and thought-provoking.

These ten fantasy books are just a small sampling of the many works in the genre that have the power to change a person’s thinking. Whether you’re looking for escapism or enlightenment, fantasy literature is a rich and rewarding source of both.

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The Desire to write

Girl at the table typing on a typewriter, vintage photo effect

Many people have a deep desire to be a writer. Whether it’s a dream they’ve had since childhood or a newfound passion, the idea of creating something that resonates with others and potentially changing lives is a powerful motivator. However, for many aspiring writers, the path to realizing this dream can be challenging and daunting. Here are some thoughts on why people have the desire to be a writer, and what it takes to make that dream a reality.

Writing is a form of self-expression. It allows individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings in a creative way, and to share those ideas with others. Writing provides a means of connecting with the world and leaving one’s mark on it, even if it’s just through a few lines of prose or poetry. It’s a way of saying, “I was here, and this is what I had to say.”

Writing can be a form of escapism. Through writing, individuals can create their own worlds, characters, and stories that allow them to escape from the pressures and realities of everyday life. It can be a therapeutic way to deal with stress and anxiety, and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

The desire to be a writer is not enough on its own. It takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow as a writer. It’s important for aspiring writers to study the craft, read widely, and practice regularly. They should also be open to constructive feedback and willing to revise and refine their work as needed.

Aspiring writers must also be prepared to face rejection and criticism. The road to success as a writer is rarely straightforward or easy, and rejection is a common experience. It’s important for writers to stay resilient and keep pushing forward, even when it feels like their work is not being appreciated.

The desire to be a writer is a powerful motivator, but it’s important to remember that writing is not just about the end result. The act of writing itself can be fulfilling and rewarding, and can provide a sense of purpose and meaning. If you have the desire to be a writer, go ahead and pursue that dream with all your heart. With hard work, dedication, and perseverance, you can turn that dream into a reality.

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Dark Fantasy

Dark fantasy is a subgenre of fantasy literature that blends elements of horror and often incorporates supernatural or magical elements. It’s a genre that is often gritty, dark, and atmospheric, and it’s been popular for decades. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of dark fantasy novels and some of the best books to read.

What is Dark Fantasy?

Dark fantasy is a genre that focuses on the darker side of fantasy. It’s a world where magic and supernatural beings are often not benevolent or heroic, and instead are malevolent or even outright evil. Dark fantasy often features a gritty, atmospheric setting that is much darker than what you’d find in traditional fantasy novels. It also frequently incorporates elements of horror, making it a genre that is not for the faint of heart.

What Makes Dark Fantasy So Popular?

Dark fantasy is popular because it offers readers a break from the typical tropes found in traditional fantasy novels. It provides an escape into a world that is much darker and more complex than the black and white morality found in traditional fantasy novels. Dark fantasy novels often explore complex moral issues, and the protagonists are often flawed and struggling to survive in a world that is not kind to them.

Top Dark Fantasy Novels to Read:

  1. The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss: This novel tells the story of Kvothe, a legendary wizard who has been on the run for years. The book is set in a world where magic is real, and the story is told through Kvothe’s perspective.
  2. The First Law Trilogy by Joe Abercrombie: This trilogy follows a group of antiheroes as they navigate a world that is torn apart by war. The characters are flawed and often make questionable decisions, making them much more relatable than traditional fantasy heroes.
  3. The Malazan Book of the Fallen by Steven Erikson: This series is a sprawling epic that is set in a world that is constantly at war. The characters are complex and the story is intricate, making it a must-read for fans of dark fantasy.
  4. The Black Company by Glen Cook: This novel follows a mercenary company as they navigate a world that is constantly at war. The book is known for its gritty and realistic portrayal of warfare, making it a favorite among fans of military fantasy.

Dark fantasy is a genre that has been growing in popularity over the years. It provides readers with an escape into a world that is much darker and more complex than traditional fantasy novels. The books listed above are just a few examples of the many great dark fantasy novels out there. If you’re looking for a break from the typical fantasy tropes, then dark fantasy is definitely worth checking out.

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* Happy Release Day to Thread the Bone *

The Kindle EBook will be $0.99 for the next 24 hours

Get Your Copy now before the price goes back up to $4.99

An epic, dark fantasy
New Release: Thread the Bone
An eerie lost land filled with secrets…

The daughter of a god is killed and now the reincarnations of the Old Gods children who had been targets of vengeance as a result surf the old grim tale

And it is grim. It’s a grey broken mysterious world and while the conflict takes time to get going it proves to be a mysterious and mystical tale…

___

There are memories in the marrow.

When the Creator’s precious daughter is killed during the Saltpan War, he takes his vengeance on the children of the old Gods. Now they are destined to be reborn for eons. Eternally searching for unyielding answers. But history is embedded in the gemstones scattered throughout the Land of Man and strange magic returns to the Watchtower servants. All the while, the Goldlands distract from the lore of the old Gods in a desperate attempt to cover ancient battle scars.

Will the Watchtower servants remember who they really are before one of them destroys the world?

There is a darkside to every moon and a darkside to every God.
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Free for the Weekend

The Man Who Fell to Earth by M. R. Pritchard is free on kindle ebooks for the weekend! Get your copy now before it’s too late.

The Heat Wave drew a violence that was swift and efficient at breaking humanity. Abraham’s people have come to the rescue—only for those they deem worthy.

Banished with the task of culling this planet and others, Abraham is pressured to meet his quota while the population on Earth dwindles. He is disturbed by what he witnesses. Until he meets Nova. Twice. She’s refused his offer of sanctuary because the promise of a floating city in the sky sounds absurd, even if it does offer safety and relief from the sweltering heat. This planet has a way of bringing certain people together, especially when they need it most. At the end of the world, there will be violence and there just might be a man from space playing 90’s tunes on a harmonica.

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Thread the Bone ARC Reviews!

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Forgotten Princess Complete Duology ebook is Free today on Kindle

Lala would have been a princess if her family hadn’t lost the monarchy. 

Part 1: Forgotten Princess

Lala has been roaming Europe with a band of gypsies, only stopping to spend cold winters behind the safe walls of Monte Rosa. She’s embraced the nomadic life, discovered freedom in travel. She’s finally found her niche in the world.

Until Prince Gabriel crosses her path.

The handsome prince encompasses everything Lala lost. Everything she’s been hiding from. She knows better than to get involved, princes don’t date gypsy girls with secrets like hers.

When Prince Gabriel finally makes his move, will Lala leave her insecurities in the past or will she run with the gypsies?

Part 2: Treasured Princess

Prince Gabriel has changed.

After missing from Lala’s life for six weeks, Prince Gabriel tracked her to a beach in Istanbul and promised her everything. But once Lala stepped foot on that speedboat she recognized Prince Gabriel wasn’t the same boy she left behind in Monte Rosa.

Uprooting her gypsy life has also uprooted old nightmares and surprises reveal themselves at inopportune times. Lala isn’t the only one with secrets.

When Prince Gabriel proposes a royal future together, will Lala accept or cling to her gypsy past?

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