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GHOST MUSIC finds the fictional Orchestra of London beset by difficulties. Zimetski, their fiery Polish conductor, drives musicians simultaneously to greater performances and personal desperation, while Pete, the orchestral manager, attempts damage control.

William Mellor, a cellist, buys an antique cello at auction only to discover that it has supernatural qualities. A mysterious young woman then joins the orchestra, captivates the conductor and attempts to captivate William, who's struggling to get back together with his estranged wife. In the end, no force, whether earthly or otherwise, can keep William from confronting the cello’s true nature – as well as his own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alice McVeigh has been published by Orion/Hachette in contemporary fiction, by UK's Unbound using a pen name in scifi, and now in multi-award-winning Austenesque fiction. Her books have been honoured at the most recent London Book Fair in the UK Selfies Book Awards, runners-up for the prestigious Foreword Indies "Book of the Year" and joint runner-up for Writers Digest ebook awards. She is married, and lives in London. Previously, she played all over the world with London orchestras, including the BBC Symphony and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra - which inspired this work.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ALICE MCVEIGH AND HER WORK AT: https://www.alicemcveigh.com

Connect with Alice McVeigh: https://www.linktr.ee/ASTMcVeigh

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'Darren has reached deeply into the very bottom of toilet humour.'

Born Darren Edward Watling, Subiaco, Western Australia, 1966. Darren excelled in English, maintaining ‘A’s, throughout his schooling and wrote a play, ‘Laughing Gas’, for his school at the age of 10. Credited with a few small, published articles, Darren found inspiration and reward, arriving at his latest piece, ‘2nd Last Chance’.

He completed an apprenticeship, as a fitter, at Princess Margaret Hospital, while continuing his passion for short story writing.

Travelling Australia for three years on a private bus gave Darren a beginning to the experiences and continued, humorous outlook he has on life.

Darren approached Jill Stubbs Mills and asked for her blessing to take her short story, ‘Deception’, and rewrite it into a novel. (The feedback from Fremantle Press about her story was exceptional). Jill agreed to her son’s request. Sadly, Jill now suffers with dementia, but, laughably, keeps her sense of humour.

Various forms of employment, including a movie extra, a welder on a crocodile farm, a drummer for a touring band and currently a roof plumber, gave Darren considerable, ‘fuel’, for a comedic novel.

Darren has had several passions over the past 50 odd years while walking this Earth. Drums, Karate, Tennis and continuing today- comedic writing.

You can learn more about Darren E. Watling and his books on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/darren.watling.37/ and Instagram at  https://www.instagram.com/darren.e.watling/

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DASHIKI - A cozy mystery with a dash of romance set in the vibrant world of jazz. 

During an interview with reclusive jazz singer Betty Brown, journalist Virginia Farrell is shown priceless tapes from the iconic 1957 Thelonious Monk-John Coltrane gig at the Five Spot. When Betty is found murdered, Virginia is determined to recover the tapes and uncover the truth behind Betty’s death.

In the spirit of Nancy Drew, Virginia teams up with her six-foot blonde roommate to investigate the various suspects. Detective Robert Smith from the Hoboken Police Department joins the case, quickly becoming absorbed by an unsolved murder possibly linked to Betty Brown’s death, as well as an undeniable attraction to Virginia.

Dashiki is a cozy mystery laced with romance, immersing readers in the captivating world of jazz, where musicians, journalists, scholars, and enthusiasts intersect in an entertaining whodunit.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Florence Wetzel was born 1962 in Brooklyn, NY.  She writes in different genres, including her release Sara My Sara: A Memoir of Friendship and Loss, which was published in July 2024. Her novels include the thriller The Woman Who Went Overboard and the Swedish mystery The Grand Man. She has also authored horror short stories, a book of poems and memoir essays, and co-authored jazz clarinetist Perry Robinson's autobiography.

Learn more about Florence Wetzel and her work at https://linktr.ee/FlorenceWetzel 

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THE PASSENGER

Burdened with her empathic gift, Elizabeth Reilly wants to be free of it and fit in with normal people. Nevertheless, when the spirit of an old man asks for her help, she travels across the country to help him return home. Gio Clemente is still angry with his father who abandoned him as a child. To help the father pass on, Elizabeth must persuade Gio to let go of his anger. Though he resents her intrusion, they are both stunned to find themselves fighting a profound attraction. Elizabeth can accept his headstrong brand of love, but can Gio accept her gift-and believe in her?

Award-winning author, Joie Lesin is a life-long fiction writer and poet. She has long been fascinated by anything otherworldly, including mermaids and ghosts. Joie writes character-driven, emotional, atmospheric tales about heartache and hope.

Originally from Massachusetts, at six years old, Joie moved to her mother's birthplace, Minnesota. By eight, Joie lost her New England accent, however, it's gradually returning as the years go by. She grew up in Minneapolis but now resides in St. Paul with her husband and their blended family—which includes a rambunctious grand-corgi.

Joie misses the ocean, but she often finds herself walking by one of Minnesota's many lakes and travels to one of the coasts as often as she can. In fact, she considers California her home away from home. When she's not writing, reading, or walking, you can find her listening to music. She absolutely loves music—especially live—and songs have sparked most of her story ideas.

To learn more about Joie Lesin and her work, visit her website at jlesin.com

TOPICS OF CONVERSATION

The Story and Inspiration Behind The Passenger

Blending Historical and Supernatural Elements

Themes of Loss, Healing, and Identity

Character Development and Symbolism in the Setting

The Writing Process and Future Projects

CONNECT WITH JOIE LESIN!

Website: https://www.jlesin.com

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/joielesin.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoielesin

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/JoieLesin

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joie.lesin

Mutuality-the Future of Trust: The Executive's Handbook, Enabling Mutuality to Cognitively Transform Organisations

In today’s organizations and society, two major challenges stand out: declining trust and the need to adapt to increasing complexity. Research highlights a shift from judgment and dependability to relational trust, built on mutuality—principles fostering deep social bonds through care, support, and shared responsibility.

True mutuality requires cognitive evolution, not just behavioral change. After two decades of research, we've identified six archetypes that hinder relational trust, limiting safe and productive workplaces. This book offers practical strategies to navigate challenges, drive transformation, and boost organizational effectiveness.

Matthew Byrne is a University of Technology Sydney and Harvard graduate and works with the Australian Graduate School of Management as adjunct faculty and Program Director of the iconic General Manager's program. Matthew specialises in aligning personal strategies with corporate aspirations, equipping executives to envision and seize value through innovative leadership. He empowers leaders to navigate economic challenges proactively, optimising financial and human capital for enhanced organisational success. Matthew has been collaborating with Denis Jenkins for over 15 years in corporate education and helping dysfunctional corporations engage their people to better build corporate trust and move managers from process-thinking to strategic-thinking.

Denis Jenkins is a pioneering figure in the field of neuroplasticity, known for his innovative approach to transforming neuropathways through cognitive training. Beginning his career as an educator in the Australian school system, his passion for helping students with learning difficulties unlock their full potential led him to collaborate with Helga Rowe from the Max Planck Institute in pioneering advancements in learning acceleration and understanding learning dysfunction. Recognised with the Australian Centennial Medal for his significant contributions to learning and behavioural change, Denis continues to work with individuals ranging from high school students to CEOs, empowering disadvantaged learners to become effective leaders in both communities and organisations. The executive leadership blueprint in building trust and strong organisational cultures is the foundation of his work.

To learn more about the authors and their work visit: https://mutualitythefutureoftrust.com/

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Eugene Hamilton, is a global speaker, educational consultant and professional development coach. His 20-year career as an educator and organizational leader has afforded him the opportunity to impact thousands of lives throughout the U.S. and internationally in such places as: England; Bermuda; Zimbabwe; the Virgin Islands and Canada.

Mr. Hamilton began his career in the Everman(TX) Independent School District and most recently served as the Director of Community & Academic Partnerships at Loma Linda University in Southern California.

As a dedicated servant leader, Mr. Hamilton has received numerous awards to include: Excellence in Community Service Award from California’s 35th Congressional District and Civilian of the Year Award from the City of North Charleston, South Carolina.

To learn more about Eugene Hamilton and his work visit his website at: www.eugenejhamilton.org. 

The Power of Resilience and Emotional Wellness in Kids – How Go Grow Glow addresses resilience, self-esteem, and emotional well-being, and why these lessons are crucial for young readers today.

Building Meaningful Characters – The inspiration behind Tony and Mrs. Washington, and how their stories reflect real-life experiences and challenges children face. 

The ‘Go, Grow, Glow’ Framework – The meaning behind this empowering mindset, how it’s woven into the book, and how parents and educators can apply it in everyday life.

The Impact of Go Grow Glow in Classrooms and Beyond – How the book is being used in educational settings, feedback from students and teachers, and its potential as a teaching tool for resilience and bullying awareness.

Bringing the Story to Life – The creative process behind the book’s illustrations, favorite artwork, and how visuals enhance Tony’s journey for young readers.

GO GROW GLOW

Tony is a boy who has studied very hard for his spelling test in class the next day. But the following morning on the bus ride to school, the kids are rambunctious and noisy and become annoyed when Tony won’t join in their antics. Worse, Tony is dejected when his best friend uses the opportunity to reveal to everyone a hurtful secret about Tony’s family life.

Upset and distracted, Tony understandably bombs on his test. When he confides in his teacher, she explains a set of actions that will help him through tough times: Go boldly—always think positive and believe in himself. Grow broadly—be open to learning new things. Glow brightly—never forget he is a bright light in the world.

CONNECT WITH EUGENE HAMILTON!

https://www.eugenejhamilton.org/

https://www.instagram.com/eugenejhamilton/

https://www.facebook.com/1eugenehamilton/

https://www.youtube.com/@eugenejhamilton

https://www.tiktok.com/@eugenejhamilton?_t=8lFtFJ1bpdP&_r=1/

https://x.com/eugenejhamilton/

Sepehr Haddad is the author of two acclaimed novels. His latest release, The Harmless Necessary Cat (2024), became a #1 Amazon Bestseller in the History of Iran category and earned the prestigious HFC E.M. Forster Gold Medal. His debut novel, A Hundred Sweet Promises, won the 2023 American Fiction Awards for Historical Fiction and Historical Romance and was a #1 Amazon Bestseller in Middle Eastern Literature and Historical Russian Fiction. Beyond writing, Sepehr is also a Universal Music Group recording artist and part of the Billboard chart-topping duo Shahin & Sepehr.

TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:

THE HARMLESS NECESSARY CAT

- Winner of the 2024 E.M. Forster Gold Medal for Middle Eastern Historical Fiction.

CONNECT WITH THE AUTHOR!

Website: https://sepehrhaddad.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepehr-haddad-772819208/

X: https://x.com/HaddadSepehr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sepehrmusic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sepehrhaddadmusic

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sepehrhaddad?lang=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe70-UNhrVGLvIWdzgMasXQ/videos

LYNN GALLANT BLACKBURN

Inspired by Paula's life and legacy, Lynn Gallant Blackburn is determined to find purpose in her sister's untimely death.  Lynn advocates for victims' rights, raises awareness about the impacts of violent crime, and actively works to end men's violence against women and girls. Through her personal experiences, she seeks to offer comfort and insight to other victims of domestic violence, reminding them they are not alone.

From a victim's perspective, she provides insight about her experience to politicians, the Nova Scotia Department of Justice, the public, the media and any other forum which gives victims a voice. She has presented her finding and recommendations to the Nova Scotia Department of Justice; The Canadian Criminal Justice Congress and she has been published in the 2009 National Victims of Crime Resource Guide with a feature called "How one victim of murder chose to be a survivor". She has been instrumental in influencing policy and legislative change in Nova Scotia and continues to create awareness about violence against women and the rights and needs of victims. 

For almost twenty years, Lynn has carried this story within her heart. On, December 5th, 2024, it would have been Paula's 55 birthday, and the day Lynn chose to release her new book called For the Love of My Sister, which has been published with generous support from Connect Women's Centres of Nova Scotia. Through her book, Lynn not only shares her personal story of loss but also serves as a voice for countless others impacted by domestic violence. Her work offers a unique and in-depth look at the systemic issues that survivors face, highlighting the need for societal change and support.

CORA COLE

For more information visit: https://womenconnect.ca/book-launch-gallant/

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FOR THE LOVE OF MY SISTER

The overwhelming sense of gratitude and love I felt at Thanksgiving, surrounded by my two sisters, their husbands and our five children, allowed me to finally exhale. With a sense of unimaginable contentment I finally let go of the breath I was holding since my parents died. This pure love carried me straight through to Christmas, until murder entered our lives.

KJ Fieler is known for her exceptional storytelling and captivating narratives. She's won multiple awards, including:​

• Literary Titan Gold

 She also hosts Writer 2 Writer, an enlightening YouTube author spotlight show. Through this platform, she delves into the lives and works of fellow authors, shedding light on their creative processes and showcasing their latest works. 

Fieler's award-winning debut novel, "Shadow Runner" is the first installment in a thrilling three-book Victorian Adventure series which plunges readers into an exhilarating world of mystery and intrigue. "Shadow Hunter," the highly anticipated second book in the Shadow Series, is set to debut in December of 2024.

LEARN MORE ABOUT KJ FIELER AND HER WORK: https://www.kjfieler.com/

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• About Shadow Runner and the inspiraton for the story

SHADOW RUNNER by KJ Fieler

Born to aristocracy, Ada will marry and never want for anything, except freedom. An unearthly visitor and a series of seemingly supernatural events unexpectedly deliver her from the mundane. But no one could have predicted the darkness that comes with it. Taken in and raised by a secret society, Ada is groomed as an assassin. As she comes of age, she must become a predator, targeting members of the very nobility to which she was born... or try to escape. But if she leaves, she risks the lives of the two she loves most... her adopted sister... and her captor.

CONNECT WITH KJ FIELER!

https://www.kjfieler.com/

https://www.facebook.com/kat.fieler/

https://www.youtube.com/@KatFieler

https://www.instagram.com/katfieler/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553066355617

Gary D. McGugan has always enjoyed reading and storytelling, but for more than forty years, he was deeply embedded in the corporate world. Anyone who has operated at a senior level within a large company knows there’s little time for serious writing, and it took retirement from that world to pursue a new passion. His first book was a work of non-fiction, co-authored with his friend Jeff Allen. That positive experience demonstrated that while writing a book is undeniably challenging, it’s not insurmountable.

McGugan’s life experiences now form the foundation for entertaining suspense thrillers, set against the backdrop of a large, multinational corporation and woven with intrigue. Since his debut novel in 2016, Three Weeks Less a Day, he has released a new book each year, with his eighth, When Power Fails, now available.

His corporate career offered a wealth of insight into a wide range of industries and situations. He worked in supermarkets, sold appliances, distributed motorcycles, launched an automobile dealer network, and provided financing and consulting to help businesses grow. Each industry had its unique culture and character, yet all were units of large corporations with operations around the world.

Travel has always been a significant part of his career. Before starting the automobile business for Suzuki Motor Company’s Canadian subsidiary, he had the pleasure of visiting nearly every city, town, village, and hamlet in Canada while leading sales and marketing for its motorcycle division.

A role with an ITT subsidiary took him to most U.S. states. Living and working in Germany for several years while creating a new business unit for Deutsche Bank gave him the opportunity to visit all EU countries, and later, responsibilities with a GE Capital subsidiary allowed him to explore various countries in Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Every trip was a learning experience.

In those days, it was essential to study business practices and cultures before each trip. Each day spent in a new country yielded valuable insights into its people, culture, laws, and unique qualities.

Today, McGugan is a member and former Co-Chair of the Writers’ Community of York Region, a vibrant group of writers from all genres supporting each other and honing their craft. With over 100 members, the group welcomes writers from the region and beyond, with many virtual events that make it easy to participate and benefit from both the community and the expertise of guest presenters.

Experts often say writers should focus on what they know best. For McGugan, those subjects are business, travel, and people. As an author, he aims to share his experiences, insights, and perspectives through suspense stories crafted to entertain readers around the world—one reader at a time.

To learn more about Gary D. McGugan and his work, visit: https://www.garydmcguganbooks.com/ 

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• About "When Power Fails" and the inspiration behind the story

WHEN POWER FAILS

Suzanne Simpson thinks she has pulled off the biggest acquisition of her career, catapulting Multima Corporation into the upper echelons of international business.

CONNECT WITH GARY D. MCGUGAN!

Website:  https://www.garydmcguganbooks.com