Tag Archives: book reviews

Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

September author celebrations

September is here, and it’s time to roll out our author celebrations! Let’s celebrate the remarkable authors this month of September and explore their literary achievements …

Awards

At the forefront of our list is author Lisa Bournelis. Her book Louie and the Dictator has achieved its third international honour, securing a silver medal in the middle-grade category from Reader’s Favorite.

Patroosh, the Cheeky Pelican by Renée James has been awarded second place in the Clara J. John’s Literary Award 2023 for Best Picture Book and Illustrations.

Get your own copy of Patroosh, the Cheeky Pelican here!

Reviews

Aldyth Irvine-Harrison, the talented author behind the enchanting book Kindness, Capers, and Conundrums, recently earned a glowing 4.5-star review from IndieReader.

Lovers of poetry who are looking for laughter, literary allusions, and a skeptical-but-not-jaded view of humanity will enjoy the lyrics of Aldyth Irvine-Harrison’s KINDNESS CAPERS AND CONUNDRUMS.

IndieReader

Don’t miss out and grab your own copy of Kindness, Capers, and Conundrums here.

Jerome Cranston has hit a literary home run with Half-Caste: Decidedly Brown in a Black or White World, as another prestigious 4.5-star review has just rolled in from Self-Publishing Review.

On the surface, the book may seem to be written for a mixed-ethnicity audience, but there are anecdotal gems of wisdom and experiential advice that will benefit any reader. With a unique voice and style, Cranston shows himself to be a skilled storyteller and a relentless observer of his own life, as well as encapsulating the experience of so many others.

Self-Publishing Review

Get your own copy of Half-Caste on Amazon!

Monique Britten’s literary prowess shines bright with a glowing 4-star review from Self-Publishing Review.

Thanks to Britten’s deeply moving and beautifully crafted prose, this richly emotional book manages to talk about death, grief, and hope across generations without ever being maudlin or heavy-handed, offering a finely tuned balance of insightful messaging and character-driven storytelling.

Self-Publishing Review

Grab your own copy of The Day Before Tomorrow here.

In Badger and Turtle Face the Storm by Daniel McMillan, you’ll embark on a delightful adventure alongside two charming animal friends. This enchanting story, reviewed by Reader View Kids, promises an engaging and heartwarming experience for readers young and old.

Get your own copy of Badger and Turtle Face the Storm here!

Events

Renée James recently graced a lively stage at the St Mary’s Primary Grafton Writers’ Festival. Her presence was a true delight for all attendees, weaving stories and captivating hearts with her charm.

Grab your own copy of Patroosh, the Hungry Pelican on Amazon!

Celebrating Larenzo Jensen’s unforgettable book launch for his Wines and Winters! Here are some great snapshots of the event, where literature and libations came together in perfect harmony.

Get your own copy of Wines and Winters here!

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating literary successes!

We’re putting the spotlight to these remarkable wordsmiths!

With book reviews, public recognitions, and awards, it’s another month of celebration, admiration, and inspiration where we applaud the authors who have shared their literary journeys with us.

Awards

Tellwell author Craig Weidhunner has recently received the Literary Titan Award for his book: Mystical Force: Volume 5 Shadows and Darkness.

This book promises to be an engaging read, ideal for fans of riveting adventure, with themes of found family and a hint of enigma.

Literary Titan

Grab a copy of Mystical Force: Volume 5 Shadows and Darkness here!

Reviews

A glowing five-star review from Reader Views was given to Sharon Bruce’s book, Shoebox Baby.

Overall, Sharon Bruce’s Shoebox Baby was an enjoyable read. For readers who love historical fiction focusing on familial relationships, this one will scratch the itch. Moreover, the focus on building strength and overcoming obstacles is wonderfully illustrated. Five stars!

Reader Views Book Review

A heartwarming book based on true story. Get your copy of Shoebox Baby by Sharon Bruce here!

It’s another five star review for Barb Locket! Easy Baking in Barb’s Kitchen also received an incredible review by Reader Views.

The recipes are easy and healthy, and I assure you they will be loved by all who taste them. I would highly recommend the book to anyone out there who loves to bake.

Reader Views Book Review

Have fun baking with Barb Lockert. Grab your copy of Easy Baking in Barb’s Kitchen here!

Readers’ Favorite gave another five-star review to David Giffen’s book Redemptive Trauma.

This is a taste of what readers will get when experiencing Giffen’s writing. Redemptive Trauma is a journey first written from the perspective of the author as a man, who then later gives us this complete visual understanding of what his childhood years were like as he later grew into the man he became.

Reader’s Favorite Book Review

Don’t miss out this masterpiece by David Giffen. Get your copy of Redemptive Trauma here!

Lara Knitter received an incredible review by IndieReader for her book The Dog Who Walks Himself.

The Dog Who Walks Himself is an allegorical tale for adults who have been inspired by older mentors and a beautiful book for children and dog lovers that can also be used as a means of addressing loss.

IndieReader Book Review

A heartwarming tale you would want to get lost into. Grab your copy of The Dog Who Walks Himself here.

Publicity

We are thrilled to present remarkable Filipino-Canadian Tellwell author Wendy Archard, who recently graced the pages of The Philippine Reporter with her book Just Breathe.

My hope is that my book resonates with little ones and their parents/families, helping them through a difficult time by reading a relatable story.

Wendy Archard, Author Interview with
The Philippine Reporter

A simple and beautiful rhyming story using illustrations and colours to help convey different emotions. Grab your copy of Just Breathe here.

Tellwell Author David Giffen graces the pages of Literary Titan with his book Redemtive Trauma.

Ultimately, Redemptive Trauma is about reconciling hope, and calling home prodigals of all kinds.

David Giffen Author Interview with
Literary Titan

Redemptive Trauma shares a story of learning the deep value of empathy, while tackling mental health and the associated stigma. Grab your copy here.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

April’s literary stars: Celebrating author success stories!

New month, more moments to celebrate! We’re shining the spotlight on authors who have reached new heights in their careers. From book events to public recognition and earning top reviews with their incredible books, we’ll be celebrating their journey and sharing their insights and inspiration. So grab a cup of coffee and join us as we toast the hardworking and talented authors out there!

Events

To kickstart the exciting events, Tellwell author Marielle de Vassoigne recently had her book launch for her book Choosing Love Over Pride.

It’s a rollercoaster of emotions! Grab your copy of Choosing Love Over Pride here.

Unleash your imagination at another book launch with Barry Fellinger with his book The Not So True Adventures of Brandon, Josh, and Adam.

A hilarious and occasionally serious story of past, present, and future antics, based on some of the three cousins’ escapades in real life! Sounds like a fun read, doesn’t it? Wait no more and grab your copy of The Not So True Adventures of Brandon, Josh, and Adam here.

Step into the pages of another new release as Tellwell author Diane Martin launches her book When Time Stands Still.

A wonderful book full of mystery and adventure you don’t want to miss! Grab your copy of When Time Stands Still here.

Here’s another book to get lost in, as Mick Burke launches his page-turner, The Blue Mask.

Get ready to experience a range of emotions with this unforgettable read. Grab your copy of The Blue Mask here.

Reviews

To start the top reviewed books, Tellwell author Colleen Millsteed received a glowing five-star review from Reader Views for her book Battle Angel.

This book should be shared with all the women in your life. So often, women feel alone—wallowing in self-loathing, heartbreak, and feeling defeated. These poems create a sense of solidarity. What could be better than a collection of poems to ignite your soul and fill you with hope? This book may be what you need to get started. Read this five-star-worthy book and prepare to be inspired.

Reader Views Book Review

Find the inspiration and power you need from the poetry written in every page of this book. Grab your copy of Battle Angel here.

Jayda Addleston’s masterpiece, Unspoken Emotions, also earned a five-star review from Reader Views Book Review!

The poet is honest and genuine as she explores various incidences in her life, the result being a personable gala of 5-star poetry collections that are pushed on by the essence of hope and healing.

Reader Views Book Review

Get lost in this must-read poetry! Grab your copy of Unspoken Emotions here.

Dr. Sarah Zadek, the author of It Takes Two… And A Uterus, also earned an outstanding review from Reader Views Book Review!

A holistic approach to answering a wider range of questions than an OB or other targeted specialist may have.

Reader Views Book Review

Understand the science behind fertility with Sarah Zadek. Grab your copy of It Takes Two… And a Uterus: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Enhancing Your Fertility here.

Another glowing review from Reader’s Favorite for Indigo Johnson for her book, The Kindness Quilt.

Indigo Johnson writes this children’s book with a poignant simplicity. She captures a whimsical quality throughout the story with colorful illustrations. 

Reader’s Favorite Book Review

It’s a heartwarming and adventurous read will surely enjoy! Grab your copy of The Kindness Quilt here.

Publicity

Dennis and Jenny D’Alessandro, authors of the book Chantry Island, have graced the pages of The Hamilton Spectator!

Dennis and Jenny describe it as an adult novel, mature in its content and style, meaning that “Chantry Island” deals frankly with men-women issues, sexuality and the pressures of life, morality and larger social and even political dynamics.

The Hamilton Spectator

This book will keep you on the edge of your seat with every page! Grab your copy of Chantry Island here.

From humble beginnings to making headlines, Yvonne Van Lankveld was recently featured on PelhamToday.ca with her remarkable book The Part Street Secrets.

The central themes of Van Lankveld’s novels deal mostly with real-life experiences like betrayal, reconciling relationships after they end, finding a new purpose in a life that’s somehow been messed up, and the need for human connection.

PelhamToday.ca

Get lost in this read and uncover the mystery of The Park Street Secrets! Grab your copy here.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating Tellwell authors’ December successes!

We treat every author success as though it were our own, and we are elated to share some recent recognitions with you!

This December is another incredible month for several of our Tellwell authors. Make sure to read through to see what our authors have been up to, and the acknowledgements, exposures, and reviews they’ve received as published authors!

Reviews

Heather Shtuka’s Missing From Me has garnered extreme praise and publicity since her launch. Her book has been at #1 on the Grief and Bereavement charts, #4 (one spot under Michelle Obama) on the Hot New Releases, and #94 on the overall book charts.

In addition to her chart ranking, she has received publicity from several media outlets, including CTV, and recently received a 5-star review from ReaderViews.

Your son is missing. As a mother myself, this is irrefutably my worst nightmare, but for Heather Shtuka, this was the sobering reality. On February 18, 2018, after being alerted by her son’s roommate that he hadn’t been seen since the night before, she and her husband made the nine-hour trip from Alberta to Sun Peaks, BC, to begin the arduous and heartbreaking task of searching for Ryan. Days turned into weeks, then into months, but the parents’ resolve never wavered. Their supportive community of friends and volunteers tirelessly dedicated their time. But still, there was no solace—no Ryan. Heather would not grieve until her son’s body was recovered.

Reader Views

To get your hands on your next great read, Missing From Me, click here.

The Adventures of Milo Chow from Tellwell author Caroline E. Rayfield received a 5/5 review on IndieReader!

Each chapter of THE ADVENTURES OF MILO CHOW unfolds like a short story, the book laid out in little vignettes of Milo’s life after he’s taken home to his new family. He’s shy and uncertain at first, but it’s not long until he understands that this family—and their endless love and affection for him after a rough start—is his to keep. Milo has tons of personality for such a small dog, from his inquisitive nature, playfulness, and his frequent demands to be carried by his new mom when he gets tired or bored on their walks. His adventures introduce new experiences, like losing a favorite toy, playing—or chewing on!—with fallen leaves, meeting larger dogs in the neighborhood, getting drenched in the rain, and even Milo’s image inspiring those around him and showing off the good work the rescue shelter has done for this lucky little Chow.

IndieReader

To pick up your own copy of The Adventures of Milo Chow, click here.

Peter B. Dunfield received a glowing 5 star review for Jack Through Time from IndieReader!

Despite its status as YA fiction, JACK THROUGH TIME is a novel that will easily appeals to adults too. Fans of detective fiction and mysteries will find all the reassuring tropes of these genres. And the time-travel aspect, which could easily be off-putting for some, does not dominate; conversely, it provides a vehicle for driving the plot forward. The characters, though not immediately fully rounded, gradually get under the skin – as the story progresses, one wills them on and hopes for their safety. 

IndieReader

To add Jack Through Time to your literary collection, click here.

Publicity

Al Rosen experiences continued success with his book Avoiding Swindlers as he receives recognition as one of the 10 titles chosen for the annual Publisher’s Newswire “Books to Bookmark” list out of releases from 2022.

“Avoiding Swindlers” by Canadian author Al Rosen, is a book full of warnings based on true events. Investors lose multi-millions of dollars to financial tricksters. Social media and new investing apps have encouraged new investors to buy into “hot tips” – this has created more hazards and swindlers. Al Rosen wrote “Avoiding Swindlers” so individuals can learn to identify red flags.

Publisher’s Newswire

To purchase Avoiding Swindlers for your collection, click here.

IndieReader previously reviewed Scott Benjamin Gracie’s book, and now they have interviewed him as an Indie Approved Author!

What’s the book’s first line?
“Light has teased and enveloped the dust, ice and debris that made up the early Earth, ever since the first ignition of radiation sparked from the Sun”


– I chose these words specifically to evoke a realisation that light is ancient, has always been, and always will be.

Scott Benjamin Gracie for IndieReader

To pick up your copy of Light, Dark and the Electromagnetic Spectrum, click here.

Awards

Murgatroyd Monaghan was a finalist for the Joy Kogawa Award for Fiction in November 2022. Check out For Soldiers and Sailors Alike: Poems on the Familiar Wars of Womanhood.

To add this acclaimed piece to your personal library, click here.

Deliveries from Tellwell author Paul Smyth was selected as a finalist in the Independent Author Network 2022 Book of the Year Awards for Action/Adventure. Congratulations Paul!

To get your copy of Deliveries, click here.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Cheers to Tellwell authors’ November success stories!

We’re always excited to celebrate our incredible authors and highlight their glorious achievements.

This November is another incredible month for quite a few Tellwell authors. Make sure to read through and experience recent author celebrations including award wins, media mentions, events, and incredible reviews!

Reviews

Starting strong is Author Al Rosen. We are proud to share that his book, Avoiding Swindlers, received an excellent review from Reader Views.

Taking a complex topic and simplifying it for the average reader is no easy task, but the author has used his decades of experience as an investigative accountant to boil down a series of examples, wording it in a way that captures the urgency in layman’s terms.

Detailing how companies are getting away with misleading financials and, at times venturing beyond audited statements to real estate “get rich quick” scams, this book educates investors on what they need to look for in each to avoid getting swindled.

Reader Views

If you’re looking for your next go-to read, make sure to grab your copy of Avoiding Swindlers here.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating September’s Tellwell authors success stories!

We’re always proud to celebrate with our authors, and share how remarkable they are!

It’s another incredible month this September for Tellwell authors. Keep reading to find out about our most recent author celebrations, including media mentions, reviews, and events!

Media mentions

Author of The Price of Protecting Others: A Memoir of a Country Cop, and the impact on Himself, and his Family, Roger Eichler, was interviewed about his book on Australian True Crime Podcast. Go Roger!

Discover an inspirational read and get your copy of The Price of Protecting Others here.

Having worked as a social worker and clinical manager before becoming a writer of children’s books, Christina Gitta-Low and her book Be Wild were recently featured in a KidlioMag interview. Way to go, Christina!

Are you up for a fun read? Grab your copy of Be Wild here.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Celebrating Tellwell’s Indie Authors – May Author Success Stories

We’re so proud to celebrate our authors each month and let everyone know how incredible they are when it comes to promoting their books to the masses! And this month is no different!

It’s been an exciting month for quite a few Tellwell authors – from award wins, to interviews with major media outlets, to some incredible reviews! Great work, everyone!

Paul Smyth’s DELIVERIES won the Action/Thriller Fiction award 2021/2022 from the 1st Annual BREW Book Awards, which is run by the book blogger group The Chrysalis BREW Project.

Are you a fan of suspenseful reads? Get your copy of DELIVERIES here.

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

In the News and Receiving Excellent Reviews – Tellwell Author Success Stories

Good Morning, Blake: Growing Up Autistic and Being Okay

by Blake “Crash” Priddle

Read IndieReader’s interview with Blake “Crash” Priddle, author of Good Morning, Blake, where he also shares his advice for other indie authors.

Blake also had great interviews in the National Autism Canada podcast, Calgary City News, and CTV News!

What’s the main reason someone should really read this book?


I feel that others on the spectrum, their families and those in their lives like teachers, might find comfort in many familiar issues autistic people face. Some may be inspired from reading what I’ve gone through, survived and thrived.  Readers who have little or no experience about autism (besides Rain Man or the Good Doctor), will gain compassion for folks that are ‘different’.

Blake “Crash” Priddle, author
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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Tellwell author success stories: Celebrating milestones in the media

Book marketing is a crucial aspect of a book’s success. It takes a lot of hard work and effort, but the payoff can be worth it. We are celebrating a number of authors this month who have done a wonderful job promoting their book in the media, speaking at events such as TEDx and even starting their own podcast. One of our authors even invested in a huge ad campaign with her local transit line.

Lisa Bournelis’ TEDx Talk is now live. Watch here!

Louie and the Dictator

by Lisa Bournelis

My Life is Nuts! and the Nutmeg the Chipmunk series

by Renata Quattro

Following her release of the Nutmeg the Chipmunk series, Renata Quattro held her second book signing at Chapters – Vega, in Mississauga, Ontario!

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Author Success - In the media, awards, reviews

Tellwell author celebrations: reviews, publicity and events

From book signings to rave reviews and exclusive interviews, our authors had a busy end to 2021! Congratulations on your terrific accomplishments, everyone! We’re thrilled to highlight your successes.

REVIEWS

Blake “Crash” Priddle’s insightful memoir, Good Morning, Blake: Growing Up Autistic and Being Okay, received a 4.5/5 star review from IndieReader!

“A clear, thoughtful memoir with an upbeat tone, GOOD MORNING, BLAKE is both a delightful read and a valuable perspective on growing up autistic in a neurotypical world.” – Catherine Langrehr for IndieReader.

You can read the full review here.

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