​Too many people are feeling lost and disillusioned.  Cindy believes that, despite the hate and cruelty that surrounds her, beauty can be found if we look for it.  In this collection of poems, she shares her belief that a smile or a bit of understanding can change the world.  One act of kindness, one smile, brightens everything it touches.  

Book cover artists work hard designing the best covers, and the authors work even harder to write the best book blurbs. Most authors will tell you that it's harder to condense a book into a catchy blurb than writing the entire book.

People always say, "Don't judge a book by its cover."
It applies to a lot of things including not to judge people before we get to know them, but in my opinion, it doesn't apply to books.
The truth is that we do judge books by their covers because that's the first thing we see. If the cover of the book doesn't shout "look at me" we keep scrolling, or in a book store, we go to the next shelf.

Book blurbs are short descriptions of books that are written for promotional purposes.
To write the perfect blurb is tricky. When the description is too wordy, readers get bored and move on. If it's too short, it doesn't catch the readers' attention. If it gives away too much, the reader will lose interest.

BOOK COVERS:
Do you find it artistically done?
Did the colors used appeal to you?
Does it give you a hint about the story?
Did it grab your attention at first glance?
Would you buy this book based on the cover?

BOOK BLURBS:
Is it clearly written?
Is it too wordy and boring?
Is it interesting enough to peak your interest?
Does it give away too much about the story?
Would you buy the book based on the blurb?

Or in the comment section at the end of the post

Or fill out the Google form here: ​https://forms.gle/S7WN6pjVQj3k6hmH6

Scroll through the books and give us your opinion in the comment section at the end of the post

Historical, paranormal fantasy.
A powerful curse cast thousands of years ago by the Grand Vizier. Tanakhmet cursed Prince Akhmose to never enter the Field of Reeds, the heavenly paradise. Why did he want him to linger as a restless ghost among the living, forever?
By reading the hieroglyphs, Layla, a young Egyptologist, inadvertently breaks the curse and frees the ghosts of both Prince Akhmose and the Grand Vizier whose thirst for revenge is stronger than ever.
With Layla’s help, can Prince Akhmose finally cross into the afterlife?
Or perhaps, because of the charms of the mortal woman, he doesn’t want to…
ON AMAZON

Historical fantasy.
Is it possible that an ancient curse cast by a powerful witch sixteen-hundred years ago could destroy families in every generation for centuries?
Dark family secrets separated Sofia and Daniel when they were children, but fate brought them together years later.
When Sofia’s brother finds a leather book in his grandmother's secret room that was written in 426 by a shaman, dark memories of their childhood start to surface.
Reading the ancient runes, they learn about their family's curse. If it remains unbroken, the curse will bring tragedy and ruin their lives as it destroyed many of their ancestors' lives. Could they find the way to break the ancient curse?
ON AMAZON 
(New cover in the making, not updated on Amazon yet)

Poetry and short stories.
Watching the world change through the years, Cindy has found herself frustrated and sad. In this collection of poems and short stories, she lets her pen flow with the melancholy and disillusionment she feels. Sometimes it is hard to believe in "Happily Ever After".
ON AMAZON ​

Memoir.
Raised by a single, hardworking mother, Jerri, and her sister grew up in a neighborhood where drugs, sex, violence, and the sound of helicopters looking for suspects were a part of their daily lives.
She became pregnant at fourteen, expelled from public school, she struggled to keep her head above water and did the best she could to raise her child. Not knowing her own worth and unaware of the fact that life could be different, she believed her life was normal, just like the lives of everyone she knew. Until an encounter at age sixteen made her realize that God had predestined her for so much more. She realized that every bad experience of her young life had a purpose, God had been testing her strength and faith.
In this short book, Jerri shares the events of her life when she’d been tested and tells you about the power of having faith and standing strong even in the darkest times when there is little hope left to hold onto.
ON AMAZON ​

Book bundle
A story a day for every day of the week, bedtime stories for grownups.
The Ghost of Prince Akhmose:
Thousands of years ago Tanakhmet cursed Prince Akhmose to never enter the heavenly paradise. But after Layla breaks the curse, does he really want to?
Messenger:
Lauren has everything she’d ever wished for. When her Raven spirit guide warns her of impending danger, she knows her life is in danger. Who wants her dead and why?
The Potion:
A potion made with haste out of jealousy puts Dorian into a coma. The rare orchid that could save his life is fiercely guarded by werewolves in the forbidden forest.
Will they succeed to save his life?
Bittersweet Memories:
Elana’s life was a revolving door of shattered hopes and disappointments. Until she met Luca. Allowing them only a short time of happiness, cruel fate tore them apart. Will they meet again?
The Worthless Painting:
The snobbish new owner of the Couture mansion brings a worthless painting into Danielle’s antique shop and the town’s future is threatened by the plans of the ruthless, rich owner. Is the painting truly worth nothing…or?
Alone:
Caleb lost his soulmate, Valerie. Can he find her in a parallel universe? If his father succeeds to open the portal, will he find the same person in the alternate universe or a stranger?
Fake It Till You Make It:
People are not perfect, and we all come with baggage. They might show a picture perfect-family life but hide the struggles, heartache, compromises, and sacrifices they made to get there.
ON AMAZON ​

A cozy supernatural thriller
Lauren has everything she’d ever wished for. Great career, financial security, loving husband, and devoted friends.
When her Raven spirit guide warns her of impending danger, she takes the omen seriously, but she doesn’t have enough time to perform the protection spell her grandmother taught her. Someone breaks into her office and after the brutal attack and the Raven’s repeated warnings, she knows her life is still in danger.
Who wants her dead and why?
ON AMAZON ​

Paranormal fiction.
Author Lorraine Carey pushes the boundaries in this Epic Tale with her Blockbuster final book in The Women of the Willow Wood Trilogy!
In the themes of The Da Vinci Code and The Witcher Series, Last Rites is a powerhouse of ancient goddess magic, coupled with steamy love scenes, deceit and forgiveness.
We find our fearless Guardian of Souls, Daniella Reyes reunited with her beloved Sisters along with her Ex-FBI boyfriend as together they face off one of the last standing demonic cults in the country.
A final showdown is coming and it will take more than the Sisterhood to face this epic battle between good and evil.
Who will be the victor in this battle between two powerful and diverse secret societies that will change the course of history?
ON AMAZON ​

Occult horror.
The Thirteenth Hour is the hour after midnight on All Hallows Eve, when Satan and his minions are most powerful—and dangerous!
Thirteen teenage vampires kidnap a thirteen-year-old-girl, Emily, and are planning to sacrifice her to Satan during The Thirteenth Hour. A successful sacrifice would increase their powers thirteen-fold.
Emily’s friend, Amanda, finds out their gruesome plan, but she knows she can’t fight the vampires alone. With the help of Hurts, a worn-out, old, private detective, they must find Emily before The Thirteenth Hour.
Will they find her? Can they save her?
ON AMAZON ​

​Supernatural thriller.
Something is coming, evil has placed its avatar on the Earth.
It’s nothing that three friends would ever dream of having to encounter while enjoying a simple reunion at the lake one weekend.
Seems the entire United States of America is in a state of panic due to a surge of brutal killings by a ruthless and psychotic serial killer disguised as an old-style magician. He leaves his mark and revels in the devastating way he leaves his victims.
It won’t be long before The Magician strikes too close to home, slaughtering Bane Bloodworth’s family. He’s no one to mess with being a one-man tactical force. Bane’s got a reputation of being a tough ass biker. He’s after revenge and taking his long-time friend, Jessica with him. Jessica’s got some special talents of her own and together they set off on a fearless pursuit to find this crazed killer.
Tension mounts as local law enforcement are powerless against this evil force. Here Bane and Jessica will be thrust into a forbidden zone where few would ever tread and stop at nothing to catch the killer.
There’s no denying the chemistry between Bane and Jessica with working so close together.
Danger lurks at every corner as Bane and Jessica’s lives are now at stake. A kick-ass battle ensues as mortal humans go up against something that is not of this world.
ON AMAZON ​

Epic fantasy.
After being thrust into a world of clan mysteries, obscure traditions, and beliefs, Ilona’s life is drastically changing.
Ilona resigns to live the simple life of a small-town doctor, but her life goes into a tailspin on her birthday. She finds out she was born into a secretive, ancient clan still hidden among us. She starts to develop unusual powers which she finds exciting as well as frightening. She can slow time and heal with her touch, but how and why?
She struggles to find answers, but those who try to reveal the clan secrets are severely punished.
A menacing man is following her and wants to kill her. Who is he?
More life struggles continue to plague her. After being thrust into a world of clan mysteries, obscure traditions, and beliefs, her life is drastically changing.
She must seek out and stop Mora’s evil plan. Punished by the ancestors long ago, Mora has waited centuries for the chance to reunite with her beloved Joland and to gain power over the Hunor clan. Revenge has kept her alive for over 1600 years.
Ilona must search for the mysterious Destiny Box that holds a message from her Ancestors while she attempts to sort out her feelings for the men in her life.
ON AMAZON 

Thank you for helping the authors and book cover artists by voicing your opinion.

​Jared’s twin brother has physical and mental limitations. 
Despite being born with Cerebral Palsy, Tim battles mental and physical impairments, while he strives to live a normal life. Spending a day with the brothers, will make medical conditions, such as Tim’s, easier to understand.

Do you know someone with disabilities?  Basic life skills, such as getting dressed or brushing teeth can be difficult for them to do.  Some people may appear a little different on the surface, but isn’t what’s on the inside that counts? 

Jared’s twin brother has special limitations.  Tim can barely stand and has not yet learned basic speech.  He uses a wheelchair, lacking the ability to move himself. 
Despite being born with Cerebral Palsy, Tim battles mental and physical impairments, while he strives to live a normal life.  Whether it’s exercising weak muscles, trying to learn sign language, or merely playing with his twin, brother Jared, Tim always tries to fit in. 

Best Buddies for Life is a valuable, social awareness tool.  The story depicts a realistic bond of family love, tolerance and acceptance that influences a child struggling through multiple handicaps.  It also portrays the hurtful actions of others who don’t understand his disabilities. The story is told through the devoted eyes of the healthy, seven-year-old, brother.  The story captures the solid foundation which supports a child living with multiple impairments, and the results of a nurturing lifestyle.   
​
Having a family member who has disabling disabilities could be a challenge for some, but spending a day with these two brothers, will make medical conditions such as Tim’s easier to understand.

Are you ready to change your life?
Are you ready to learn how to free your mind, reach your brain’s full potential, change negative thoughts into positive ones, and achieve great success?
According to the National Science Foundation, an average person has about 12,000 to 60,000 thoughts per day, most are negative and repetitive. The human mind is powerful. However, often limited to what you might accomplish by the restrictions of repetitive negative thoughts such as doubt, uncertainty, anger, and fear.

Neuroplasticity is the ability of your brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections and optimize its neural networks. This book teaches you how to change the way your brain works to accomplish more, even if you don’t have any experience in cognitive flexibility, neuroscience, or brain plasticity. Your thoughts alone are the keys to open the secret doors of your brain and unleash the power of neuroplasticity.

From this easy-to-follow comprehensive guide, you will learn how your brain works and adapts to changes. Learn how you can turn negative thoughts into positive ones. Learn how you can change your self-limiting beliefs and unhealthy habits. Learn how the Law of Attraction works. Learn to engage your brain in deleting the neural connections that are no longer necessary or useful, and strengthening the necessary ones. Learn how to free your mind to reach your full mental potential.
What you learn will change your life!

The authors, bloggers, reviewers and helpers of the writers' community who help and support authors for free, out of the goodness of their hearts, are rarely mentioned or appreciated.

12 people were nominated to be included in the Hall of Fame to honor them for their dedicated work of helping Indie Writers. Read about them on the page link below:

JB Richards is an historian and international multi-award-winning, multi-genre author who holds degrees in History and Psychology. She has published two historical fiction novels about the life of Christ, two LGBT fantasy novels, and a revenge thriller centered in Appalachia. She’s currently working on a variety of multi-genre novels and book series’.
​
Richards is the founder and CEO of the Indies Helping Indies Book Review Project (#IHIBRP)—providing Indie authors with free book reviews and promotional services, and the Indieverse Resource Library—a free eLibrary consisting of book-related topics and author services. She regularly hosts the #IndieBookParade—a holiday-themed Facebook event that brings together Indie authors and readers. Richards is also the editor of Indieverse Newsletter—a newsletter geared toward readers and writers.

Jeannie is a lifelong resident of Manchester, New Hampshire, where she lives with her husband of 35-years, her son, and her rambunctious but lovable pups, Ayden, and Spirit.
​
Jeannie helps authors on her website and Facebook page with free author services—including the Indies Helping Indies Book Review Project (#IHIBRP) and the Indieverse Resource Library (#IRL) that provides great help for authors.

 “The writing bug bit me on a rainy afternoon when I couldn’t find any new book to read. My daughter had enough of my moping around and snapped at me, “Mom, stop whining! If you haven’t a book to read, then write one.” Her challenge shocked me, but I started playing with the idea and I’ve been writing stories, that I like to read, ever since.”

Erika loves to dance to her own tunes and follow her dreams, introduces her story writing skills and her books that are based on creative imagination with themes such as alternate history, urban fantasy, cozy mystery, sweet romance and supernatural stories. Her children’s stories are informative, educational, and deliver moral values in a non-preachy way.

“I followed my dream to become a writer. As an artist, I paint pretty pictures with my brushes, and as a writer, I paint vivid pictures with my words.”

Erika helps authors with organizing Anthologies and group promotions in her Online Magazines, as well as giving a helping hand with tutorial videos and advice in her numerous Facebook groups.

We were happy to assist Slate throughout the publishing process of his great paranormal thriller novel. We designed the book cover, the interior of the book, assisted with publishing the eBook and print on different sites, and set up the audiobook. We also designed a new release video and a great looking website for Slate.
Best of luck and lots of sales, Slate!

Several people’s lives are cosmically interwoven by a violent game. It brings destruction and death to anyone who crosses its path. No one is safe.  Where does destiny end and when does fate take over?
Jonas had been on the run since he was thirteen. A group pursued him, but he didn’t know why. Yet, he knew that if they’d ever find him, he will die. He lived a solitary life to survive until his dreams began. Each dream revealed a new piece of an ever-widening puzzle. A mystery woman haunted his slumber, drawing him closer to the destiny he knew and feared.
Tammy's life was drastically altered by an encounter in a dark alley. She had seen what no one else in the world had lived to tell about. When it was time to act, she had faltered and feared for her life. Could she tell the world what she had witnessed, and would anyone believe her? How could she live with the knowledge that made her life a living hell?
Stacey had won the lottery, and everyone wanted a piece of it. The only person she felt she could trust was her best friend, Tammy. However, Tammy began having serious problems after the terrible night in the alley. Stacey had decided to hire a bodyguard to protect them. But, before long, she developed romantic feelings for their protector, which distracted them from their main concern... keeping Tammy safe.
What will become of these people whose lives are intertwined by destiny and fate into a fierce game? With lives on the line, and devastation on the horizon is anything or anyone safe? It’s only where destiny lands that you can find The Fated.
​

Our author, artist, designer, Erika M Szabo, helped Dr. Willett throughout the entire publishing process. She designed the book cover and book interior, illustrations, and logo. Also, she created accounts for Dr. Willett on the publishing sites, got ISBNs, and assisted to self-publish his book.

“Fatherhood Fight or Flight is a riveting, impactful, thought-provoking read for all who would consider fatherhood. Dr. Michael Willet is an educator, trainer, and spiritual motivator, who passionately shares his wisdom to encourage fathers to put forth the effort to reinforce family values. If you desire to make a difference or know someone with the potential to benefit from fatherly advice, share this manual.”
—Bishop Eric P. Brown
Senior Pastor, Victory Faith Cathedral, Inc.
Vice-Presiding Bishop, Victory Deliverance Fellowship of Churches

“Dr. Michael Willett is a man full of wisdom, and he is always eager to share it with others. He knows what it is to turn tragedy into an opportunity for service.”
—Prof. Christopher Muhammad

“Our young males need proper training to become men and, ultimately, become effective fathers. Fatherhood Fight or Flight is the tool that can assure that growth process.”
—Jerald LeVon Hoover
Adjunct Prof. and Award-winning Author of My Friend, My Hero

“Dr. Michael Willett's example as a mentor, leader, martial artist, and a man of God has inspired me. I have read Man by Choice, Male by Birth and am blessed to be a father of children and surrogate father to many in the community. The truth, experience, and knowledge that I received in his first publication kept me rooted in my responsibilities as the father of my children, first and foremost. I have since grown to become a father-figure (Sensei Hunt Karate Instructor) to many in the community of Laurelton, New York. If you are looking to guide and direct the next generation of young people, I strongly recommend this book. It will be the priceless investment for your family library.”
—Jeff Hunt, Sensei
Laurelton, New York.

“Dr. Michael Willett's first book Man by Choice, Male by Birth, was a knockout. Understanding this, as I do, the wisdom his second book, Fatherhood Fight or Flight, should be equally as explosive.”
—Bishop J. K. Jefferson
Sunday Morning Manger
At Old Skool 102.9FM
Orangeburg, SC
Community Broadcasts, LLC

“Fatherhood Fight or Flight is an excellent tool for the countless black men that are seeking guidance on their fatherhood journey.”
—Shontai Hollingsworth-Miller
Youth Development Manager

“This book has all the makings of a bestseller. Get it now!”
—Dr. Joe Jones
Ph.D. in martial arts,
61 years practicing martial arts

“We live in dangerous times because men have made children but have neglected to father them. We see our youth decimated in our community through gang violence and drug abuse. I believe with all my heart that we, as men, must find a way to engage our young men with real and positive alternatives to the false narrative that the OGs are feeding them. We have enough intellect, but the question is: do we have the will? I thank Dr. Willett for his endeavor to impact men with this clarion call.”
—Bishop Robert L. Williams
Salt of the Earth Ministries, Inc.

Eartha Watts Hicks

5.0 out of 5 stars A TIMELESS STORY OF BROTHERHOOD IN THE INNER-CITY
Reviewed in the United States on November 7, 2018Verified Purchase
My Friend, My Hero is a much-needed tale of friendship, brotherhood, other relationship dynamics, and positive influence. Black culture chides that 'it takes a village to raise a child.' Somehow, there so few stories of the results of being nurtured by village, when and how that child emerges, and how often that child returns, gives back and uplifts the community. The focus on sports superstars is most often on their talent, ability, wealth, and bling—rarely the struggle, sacrifices, personal responsibilities, commitment to excellence, drive, and restraint. And how often are these precious stories in books written about young black boys? Those within the nucleus of youth sports know the support system that needs to be in place to shape individual players into a team and drive that team to victory. My Friend, My Hero beautifully captures that dynamic with edge-of-the-seat intrigue, as the dangers Bennett faced, pop up one after the other. This is an excellent coming of age story for kids of any age, reminding us that some of our heroes are right at home.

Eartha Watts Hicks
active member of the Harlem Writers Guild
Editor at Harlem World Magazine

JEAN WIDLY CELINE

5.0 out of 5 stars A rollercoaster ride of joy and sorrow
Reviewed in the United States on July 5, 2020Verified Purchase
This book is an eye opening on the current issues that young people particularly from low income families face almost everyday. Many try hard to escape the roads of drugs, gang etc..., but soon succumb to the pressure of a system structured against them. Bennett was a hero but also a martyr. This book is a great read about love, friendship, loyalty, resilience and self esteem. I highly recommend it.

“The message is clear, as it delivers its lessons on living and inspires young people to truly live according to their beliefs, stand firmly on their own ground, and not merely be a follower in the crowd.”
Mentor Magazine

“A very courageous account of what it means to be a young person today. Hoover focuses on the importance of relationships, staying in school, fair play, and setting positive goals. This is truly a story of self-respect and friendship, woven with intelligence and maturity.”
William C. Pratella, PhD
Former Superintendent of Schools, Mount Vernon, NY

“My Friend, My Hero is worth anyone’s investment in the reading arena. It speaks not only to young hearts, but to all hearts, all ages, and all stages.”
Rev. Dr. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray
F.A.M.E Church, Los Angeles, CA

“There’s a little comedy, a little drama, a little suspense, and a little mystery, with the end result being a story that’s not only entertaining, but enlightening. My Friend, My Hero is a wonderful first novel.”
Blackboard African-American Bestsellers, Inc.

“Congratulations on your remarkable book. It reaches into the soul, and it’s something that every young person should read. This book shows your remarkable ability as a writer. In my opinion, you deserve the Pulitzer Prize.”
Lady D. Madison
United House of Prayer

“This is a candid story of life and death. My Friend, My Hero could be a fine tool for analytical problem-solving dialog in any contemporary classroom.”
Marcia de Chadenedes
Centrum Education ProgramsEartha Watts Hicks