CHANGING LANES by Hailey Rose Barrett (Review/Interview)

by Cyrus Webb

So many times we feel as though we are on a path that is going from bad to worse, not being able to see our way out.

Thankfully there are examples like that of Hailey Rose Barrett that show us that no matter how dark the times might be, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. We just have to keep pushing forward until we reach it.

I found out about Barrett's book when I agreed to be a part of the blog tour arranged by Elite Book Promotions. 

CHANGING LANES showcases that you can go from enduring years of abuse in your childhood and even forms of abuse in your adulthood and still find the key to making it out alive and whole. Part of the process has to do with forgiveness, and realizing that forgiving is not in any way excusing what has happened but opened up the door for you to heal There is also the importance of understanding how things happen, what causes people to do what they do, and more important how can we use the challenges we are faced with to become better, stronger and wiser.

Hailey has done this, and now through her book she is able to allow us to realize that we can experience the same freedom. Doesn't mean that every day will be perfect, but it does mean that we will be best equipped to handle the difficult circumstances that come our way.

Get CHANGING LANES on Amazon here. Hailey's website is www.haileyrosebarrett.com. 

Listen to my conversation with the author on Conversations LIVE Radio show below:

Check Out Books Podcasts at Blog Talk Radio with theconversationshow on BlogTalkRadio

Conversations Book Club Releases Top 100 Books of 2014

Conversations Book Club President and media personality Cyrus Webb is excited to release his picks for Top 100 Books of 2014.

"The authors did not make this an easy assignment this year," says Webb, 39, who began the list in 2007 after forming the reading group Conversations Book Club. "I have read hundreds of great books this year, but these 100 (50 Fiction and 50 Non-Fiction) that I have picked are truly the best of the best for adults."

As has been his custom since beginning his 'Top Books' list, Webb also identifies the publishers of the books. "I thought this was important because several of the books share publishers. I think this is a sign that those are publishing houses to watch and support. I also want to recognize the hard work that each publisher has gone through to release great books."

The other thing you will notice about Conversations' Top 100 Books listing is that it is one of the most diverse in the industry, highlighting self-published titles as well as those by small presses and major publishing houses. "A great book is a great book," says Webb. "It doesn't matter who publishes it. The books this year are the best because of the author's dedication to excellence. I hope that is something aspiring writers appreciate and take note of."

Without any further ado, here are Conversations Book Club's Top 100 Books of 2014:

Top 50 Non-Fiction Books of 2014 (listed in no particular order):

1. Connected to Goodness by David Meltzer (Balboa Press)
2. This is Ridiculous. This is Amazing by Jason Good (Chronicle Books)
3. All You Need Is Less by Madeleine Somerville (Viva Editions)
4. Burning the Midnight Oil by Phil Cousineau (Viva Editions)
5. Stop. Breathe. Believe. by Dianne Morris Jones (unknown)
6. The Wisdom We're Born With by Daniel Gottlieb (Sterling Ethos)
7. The World Is (Y)ours by Kurtis Lee Thomas (Brainyacts Publishing)
8. Jazzchild: A Portrait of Sheila Jordan by Ellen Johnson (Rowman & Littlefield)
9. Fire Shut Up In My Bones by Charles M. Blow (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
10. Elvis & Ginger by Ginger Alden (Berkley)
11. 9,000 Miles of Fatherhood by Kirk Millson (Plain Sight Publishing)
12. Burning Down the House by Nell Bernstein (The New Press)
13. Rescuing Julia Twice by Tina Traster (Chicago Review Press)
14. Built to Lead by David Long (Next Century)
15. Never Ever Give Up by Erik Rees (Zondervan)
16. Resister by Bruce Dancis (Cornell University Press)
17. I'll Drink to That by Betty Halbreich (Penguin Press)
18. One Less. One More. by Robbie Vorhaus (Storytelling, Inc.)
19. The Harm In Asking by Sara Barron (Three Rivers Press)
20. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson (Nancy Paulsen Books/Penguin)
21. Jerry Lee Lewis by Rick Bragg (Harper)
22. Invincible by Brian F. Martin (Perigee/Penguin)
23. Mojo For Sale by Katandra Jackson Nunnally (FreedomInk)
24. Secrets to Surrender by Debby Akerman (New Hope Publishers)
25. Reboot Your Life by Chicken Soup for the Soul (Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing)
26. The Concrete Killing Fields by Pat Morgan (Mile High Press)
27. Tomlinson Hill by Chris Tomlinson (Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martins Press)
28. Be An Icon by Kenneth Nkemnacho (Kenneth Vision Media)
29. Fulfilled by Joey Lankford (B&H Publishing Group)
30. The Budget-Friendly Fresh and Local Diabetes Cookbook by Charles Mattocks (American Diabetes Assoc.)
31. Missing Class by Betsy Leondar-Wright (Cornell University Press)
32. Both Sides Now by Nancy Sharp (Books & Books Press)
33. The Grateful Life by Nina Lesowitz and Mary Beth Sammons (Viva Editions)
34. Extraordinary People by Scott S. Smith (Motivational Press)
35. Out of the Depths by Glenda L. Hunter (unknown)
36. Where Excuses Go to Die by John Espinosa Nelson (Highrise Press)
37. Raw by Fiona Finn (unknown)
38. Too Loved to be Lost by Debora M. Coty (Shiloh Run Press)
39. Having the Time of Your Life by Allen Klein (Viva Editions)
40. Breaking the Chains by Dr. Catrina Pullum (Dart Consulting & Professional Services, LLC)
41. Why Science Does Not Disprove God by Amir D. Aczel (William Morrow)
42. The Coldest Season Ever by Vino Davis (Standing on the Word)
43. Postcards from Cookie by Caroline Clarke (Harper Collins)
44. Off My Rocker by Kenny Weissberg (Sandra Jonas Publishing House)
45. The Gifted by Daphne Michaels (Daphne Michaels Books)
46. Garden Blessings by June Cotner (Viva Editions)
47. Stand Up Straight and Sing! by Jessye Norman (Hougton Mifflin)
48. War Babies by Richard Pells (Cultural History Press)
49. Find Your Inner Strength by Chicken Soup for the Soul ( Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing)
50. Moms' Night Out (and other things I miss...) by Kerri Pomarolli (B&H Publishing Group)

Top 50 Fiction Titles of 2014 (Listed in no particular order):

1. Confessions of a Wild Child by Jackie Collins (St. Martin's Press)
2. The Headmaster's Wife by Thomas Christopher Greene (Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's Press)
3. Revolutionary by Alex Myers (Simon and Schuster)
4. Saint Monkey by Jacinda Townsend (W. W. Norton & Co.)
5. Forty Acres by Dwayne Alexander Smith (Atria Books)
6. Graveyard of Memories by Barry Eisler (Thomas & Mercer)
7. What's Done in the Dark by Reshonda Tate Billingsley (Gallery Books)
8. Death Logs In by E. J. Simon (Simon Zef Publishing)
9. Magnolia Mud by Randy Pierce (Dogwood Press)
10. Your Perfect Life by Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke (Washington Square Press)
11. Tap Rack Bang by Robert Blake Whitehill (Calaveras Media)
12. The Lodger by Louisa Treger (Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's Press)
13. My Wife My Baby...And him by Shelia Bell (North Star/Bonita & Hodge Publishing)
14. It Won't Always Be This Great by Peter Mehlman (Bancroft Press)
15. Virtuous Deception by Leiann B. Wrytes (A Million Thoughts Publishing)
16. The Tumble Inn by William Loizeaux (Syracuse University Press)
17. Christopher's Diary Secrets of Foxworth by V. C. Andrews (Pocket Books)
18. Pressed Pennies by Steven Manchester (The Story Plant)
19. Family Values by Anderecco (Alphagraphics)
20. The Flip by Michael Phillip Cash (unknown)
21. When the Drum Major Died by Anjuelle Floyd (NOJ Publications)
22. Russian Roulette by E. E. Smith (Phoenix Intl)
23. A Flight to Romance by John Fishwick (CreateSpace)
24. Aftershock by Joe Lane (Bancroft Press)
25. Not My Will by Khara Campbell (Delphine Publications)
26. Jack Icefloe Jackson's Romance For Men by Dean Lorey (Disobedient Dragon)
27. The Love Letters by Bruce Davis (Grave Distractions Publications)
28. Nowhere Out by Vincent J. Sachar (Divont Publishers)
29. Death's Way by Christopher Valen (Conquill Press)
30. The Promise by Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson)
31. A Pinch of Ooh La La by Renee Swindle (New American Library)
32. Paw and Order by Spencer Quinn (Atria Books)
33. Her Heart's Desire by Lisa Watson (Kimani Romance)
34. Brutal Youth by Anthony Breznican (Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin's Press)
35. Murmurs of Insanity by Gerrie Ferris Finger (Gale Cengage Learning)
36. Forever An Ex by Victoria Christopher Murray (Touchstone/Simon & Schuster)
37. Skewed by Anne McAneny (Farrington Press)
38. In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundin (Revell)
39. Let Me Just Say This by B. Swangin Webster (Intrigue Publishing)
40. Quiet Dell by Jayne Anne Phillips (Scribner/Simon & Schuster)
41. Arts and Crafts by J. T. Prescott (Two Harbors Press)
42. Home to Chicory Lane by Deborah Raney (Abingdon Press)
43. Thread of Life by David W. Huffstetler (Becher House Publishing)
44. Unfaithful by Karyn Grice (Karen Hunter/Pocket Star Books)
45. No Turning Back by Dan Burns (Chicago Arts Press)
46. Four Ladies Only by Alretha Thomas (Diverse Arts Collective)
47. Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll (Abingdon Fiction)
48. Lost in the Ivy by Randy Richardson (Eckhartz Press)
49. Debbie Doesn't Do It Anymore by Walter Mosley (Doubleday)
50. The Third Rule of Ten by Gay Hendricks and Tinker Lindsay (Hay House)

Author Robert Blake Whitehill's Visit to Mississippi: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Conversations Book Club founder Cyrus Webb was excited to celebrate the reading group's 8 year anniversary with award-winning author Robert Blake Whitehill's visit to Mississippi on Sat. November 15th.

"Robert and I were introduced to each other in 2012 with the release of his debut novel DEADRISE," says Webb. "I've interviewed him several times on the radio show Conversations LIVE, and it was great that Conversations could welcome him to his first visit to the Magnolia State. (Webb also had the privilege of having written blurbs for the back of Whitehill's second book NITRO EXPRESS and third title TAP RACK BANG.)

Throughout the day Robert was able to meet readers from across the state, discuss the history of his series which features Ben Blackshaw and discuss what it's been like to not just share the books but now prepare for them being turned into motion pictures.

Readers of all ages greeted the author, and even those who were able to purchase books during the visit learned how they could order them online.

"I couldn't have asked for a better day," Webb says. "It was great to spend some time with Robert but also to share him with the good people of Mississippi."

To learn more about Robert and his series visit www.robertblakewhitehill.com. To see what is next for Conversations Book Club visit www.conversationsbookclub.com.

PROFILE: David Clive Price, author of ALPHABET CITY

Conversations Book Club, in connection with Elite Book Promotions, is excited to introduce David Clive Price, author of ALPHABET CITY.

On Tues. November 4, 2014 Price stopped by Conversations LIVE radio show to chat with host Cyrus Webb about his literary journey and what it was like for him to bring the characters of the book to life.

Listen to the interview below:

Check Out Books Podcasts at Blog Talk Radio with Conversation Pieces on BlogTalkRadio

Read Webb's review of ALPHABET CITY on Amazon here.

National Novel Writing Month founder Chris Baty stops by #ConversationsLIVE

Conversations LIVE host Cyrus Webb welcomes Chris Baty, founder of National Novel Writing Month, to the show to discuss his revised book NO PLOT? NO PROBLEM!

Listen to the conversation at the link below:



National Novel Writing Month founder Chris Baty stops by #ConversationsLIVE 11/06 by middayconversations | Books Podcasts

Conversations' Top "Must-Reads" of November 2014

Conversations Book Club President and media personality Cyrus Webb is excited to introduce you to “10 Must-Reads of November”.

“As we are coming to the end of another year I wanted to share books that were being released that not just told amazing stories but offered some encouragement and hope as well,” says Webb. “This month’s ‘Must-Reads’ are all non-fiction titles that I believe people of all interests will find enjoyment in.”

Here is the listing of November’s “10 Must-Reads”:
1. ENCOURAGED by Brenda Ladun (New Hope Publishing)
2. NO PLOT? NO PROBLEM by Chris Baty (Chronicle Books)
3. ONE LESS. ONE MORE by Robbie Vorhaus (Storytelling Inc.)
4. BEHIND THE BADGE by Michael Cover (Michael Cover Publishing)
5. CONNECTED TO GOODNESS by David Meltzer (Balboa Press)
6. THE GRATEFUL LIFE by Nina Lesowitz and Mary Beth Sammons (Viva Editions)
7. FIND YOUR INNER STRENGTH by Chicken Soup for the Soul (Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing)
8. EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE by Scott S. Smith (Motivational Press)
9. ARRESTED by Dan Conaway, Esq (Bascom Hill)
10. YOUR INTENTIONAL DIFFERENCE by Ken Tucker/Todd Hahn/Shane Roberson (Morgan James Publishing)

Stay connected with literary news from Conversations Book Club at www.conversationsbookclub.com.

(Sat. Nov. 15th) Conversations welcomes author Robert Blake Whitehill to Mississippi

Conversations Book Club is excited to announce that award-winning author Robert Blake Whitehill will be visiting Mississippi for the first time Sat. Nov. 15th for 3 special events.

"We're excited that Robert will be able to meet readers in Mississippi," says book club President Cyrus Webb. "I've been a fan of his work since his debut novel DEADRISE. Will be great to finally meet."

Here is the public schedule for the author's visit on Sat. November 15, 2014:

*     9-10a.m. "Breakfast with Books" event @ Subway Crossgates * 112 Service Drive * Brandon, MS
*     1-3p.m. Booksigning @ Pearl Public Library *2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS
*     5-6p.m. Meet & Greet @ Appetizers Restaurant * 3000 Hwy 80 E * Pearl, MS

Whitehill is the author of DEADRISE, NITRO EXPRESS and his newest work TAP RACK BANG. He will be signing all three books at a discounted price of just $10 each.

Admission to all events is FREE and they are open to the public. Food specials will be available at both Subway and Appetizers.

For more information about Robert visit www.robertblakewhitehill.com. To find out more about the day's events contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.conversationsbookclub.com. 

Conversations Book Club's 10 Must Reads for October 2014

It's a new month and with the change in weather comes a new crop of books that Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb believes should be on your reading list in October.

No matter what your reading pleasure Webb is sure that you will find something that will be entertain, inspire and motivate you in your daily life. Take a look at this month's picks:

1. CHRISTOPHER DIARY: Secrets of Foxworth by V. C. Andrews (Gallery Books)
2. REBOOT YOUR LIFE by Chicken Soup for the Soul (Chicken Soup for the Soul Publishing)
3. NOWHERE OUT by Vincent J. Sachar (Divont Publishers)
4. THE LODGER by Louisa Treger (Thomas Dunne Books)
5. TAP RACK BANG by Robert Blake Whitehill (Calaveras Media)*
6. HAVING THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE by Allen Klein (Viva Editions)
7. TOO LOVED TO BE LOST by Debora M. Coty (Shiloh)
8. DEATH LOGS IN by E. J. Simon (Simon Zef Publishing)
9. MOJO FOR SALE by Katandra Jackson Nunnally (FreedomInk)
10. THE TUMBLE INN by William Loizeaux (Syracuse University Press)

*     TAP RACK BANG is Conversations' Book of the Month for October. 

#BookReview: ELVIS & GINGER by Ginger Alden

by Cyrus Webb

We all know of Elvis, and though so many felt a deep connection with his music, his fans were only about to get a glimpse of the man that he is. His death impacted the world in various ways, and everyone who listened to his music or got to see him perform or be a part of his life will remember him in their own way. For Ginger Alden, the woman he was engaged to at the time of his untimely death, he was more than just a rock star or celebrity. He was a man that taught her so much about the world and even herself. In her book ELVIS & GINGER she allows us to see not just what they had together but how her life was forever changed just by Elvis seeing her and loving her for who she was.

I have to say that I have never read a book about Elvis that seemed to paint such a complete picture of him as this one. Ginger takes us not only into their first meeting, but how she really did get to see the world differently by being willing to open up to new ideas and perspectives. "Elvis felt there was so me force inside him, guiding him to teach and bring joy to others in various ways, especially through music," she writes (p.176).She then came to a revelation one day and shared this: "Maybe we all really did possess abilities we're not cognizant of; maybe if we trained and learned to focus, we could more fully tap into the power of our minds. Who was I to say no to that?" (p.178)

The knowing that Elvis had about his purpose came to him because of meditation and taking the time to focus, to reach his center---something that I had no idea that he even practiced before reading this book. A great deal of his understanding came from reading. "We would often sit on his bed and read for hours," Ginger related. "Sometimes we would take turns reading to each other or sit side by side reading to ourselves. Whenever we were reading to ourselves, if the two of us happened to take a breath at the same time, or even sigh at the same moment, Elvis always noticed. Once he said, 'It's almost as if we're one.'" (p. 140)

Read the full review on Amazon here.

Listen to my radio interview with Ginger Alden here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/inspirationalconversations/2014/09/03/ginger-alden-discusses-her-new-book-elvis-and-ginger-on-conversations-live

Conversations' October Book of the Month: TAP RACK BANG by Robert Blake Whitehill

Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb is pleased to announce that October's book club selection is TAP RACK BANG by author Robert Blake Whitehill.

"This is the third book in the Ben Blackshow series," says Webb, 39, "however, you don't need to have read the previous books to enjoy this one."

Webb will be moderating a live discussion of TAP RACK BANG on Conversations LIVE radio show Thurs. October 23, 2014 @ 6p.m. et (5p.m. ct/3p.m. pt) with Whitehill---and listeners can listen online at www.blogtalkradio.com/cyruswebbpresents while they take callers so readers can share their thoughts about the book and what they enjoyed about it.

Read Webb's Amazon review of the book here. Stay connected with Robert and find out more about the series at www.robertblakewhitehill.com.

New York Times Bestselling author Wahida Clark Launches Co-Authoring Program

It is the goal of so many authors: to become a New York Times bestselling author and to make a living doing what they love: WRITING.

With new authors flooding the market daily, what separates those who find the success they want from the pack are the resources necessary to see their dreams coming true. It is because of this need that New York Times bestselling author has designed something that is sure to be seen as a game-changer in the literary world: the New York Times Best-Seller Partner Program!

For the last four years Wahida's books have hit the New York Times Best Selling list, pulling in over 100,000 plus in unit sales each. Is that doable for you? She says it most certainly is. "My New York Times Best-Seller Partner Program takes you step by step through the process of what and how I became a New York Times Best-Seller," she explains. "I do most of the work in guiding you to write a successful best-selling title."

So how does it work? Wahida Clark's Bestseller Partner Program allows you to co-author with a best selling author, gaining access to an existing reading audience, bookstore clout, retailer influence and an author platform that would take you years to build! This strategy is used by big publishing companies - and now you have the opportunity available to you.

"There was no program like this when I was on my author’s journey," Clark says. "It took me almost ten years to learn the formula. But sharing this is my way of giving back because I know the challenges and ups and downs of being a successful, best-selling author.

"One of my mentors asked a question that became the brain child for this new program. He asked, 'What would it take for various authors under Wahida Clark Presents Publishing to do numbers with their books like yours?' 'I would have to put my name on their book as a co-author, and of course they would have to hustle. Books don’t sell themselves,' I replied. He instantly took the idea and ran with it, and the New York Times Best-Seller Partner Program was born."

Joining Wahida Clark along this journey are Financial Literacy Guru, Ash Cash (www.IamAshCash.com  ), talented Film Writer & Producer AL-Tariq Brown (Secret Indictment), and a notable Historical Romance author Andrew Hardy (When Thomas Met Maria). Different walks of life. Different genres. Wahida says that these individuals understood the program’s mission and didn’t hesitate to come on board. So can you!

Find out more about the program and how you can partner with New York Times bestselling author Wahida Clark, joining the ranks of bestselling authors yourself by visiting www.nytbestsellerpartner.com.

PROFILE: Ben Burgess Jr., award-winning author of WOUNDED

Conversations Book Club is excited to be a stop on author Ben Burgess, Jr.'s tour with Elite Book Promotions  for his book WOUNDED.

ABOUT WOUNDED:
Samantha Miller didn't have an easy start. Molested as a child and subsequently forced into prostitution by her drug-addicted mother, Samantha learned at an early age that men were not to be trusted. Being constantly preyed upon taught her to be a predator. Her target was women-specifically, straight or married women. As the headliner at a local strip club, Samantha capitalized on the gifts she was cursed with. In turn, her life quickly spiraled down a dangerous path of violence, seduction, and exploitation. When Sasha is brought on as the new bartender, she becomes Samantha's newest target. The last thing Samantha anticipated was falling in love. When tragedy strikes, what was once a challenge may prove to be her downfall. Can Samantha heal from her abusive past, or will she always be Wounded?

***

When asked by Conversations Media Group founder Cyrus Webb what the experience has been like to see the way his book are being received, Burgess told him this: It's very humbling and fulfiling. I always wanted to write a book that would help change people's way of thinking and to reach them deeply. When i see the novels that i'm writing becoming successful, it's unbelievable."

Listen as Burgess and Webb chat about his career and new book WOUNDED on Conversations LIVE here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/theconversationshow/2014/05/26/award-winning-author-ben-burgess-jr-discusses-wounded-on-conversations-live

You can read Cyrus Webb's review WOUNDED on Amazon here.

Conversations Reveals 10 Must-Reads During September 2014

The love of books has been at the heart of Conversations since the very beginning and Conversations Media Group Founder Cyrus Webb is excited to share some great new reads for audiences of all interests for the month of September 2014.

"These are all great titles that I have enjoyed and believe others will as well," says Webb.  

10 Must-Reads of September 2014

1. A FOREST OF DOORS by L. A. Muse (Innovo Publishing)
2. ELVIS & GINGER by Ginger Alden (Berkley)
3. BUILT TO LEAD by David Long (Next Century Publishing)
4. FULL CIRCLE by J. L. King (published by Brown Girls Publishing)
5. IT WON'T ALWAYS BE THIS GREAT by Peter Mehlman (Bancroft Press)
6. LOVE CYCLES by Linda Carroll (New World Library) 
7. BEYOND BLUE by Austin S. Camacho (Intrigue Publishing) 
8. UNFAITHFUL by Karyn Grice (Karen Hunter eBooks)
9. I'LL DRINK TO THAT by Betty Halbreich (Penguin Press)
10. INVINCIBLE by Brian F. Martin (Perigee/Penguin Group)

With the exception of A FOREST OF DOORS by author L. A. Muse all the books were released either during the month of August or are scheduled to be released in September.

Muse's real-life journey inspired Webb so much that he chose her book as September's Book of the Month and the two will be discussing A FOREST OF DOORS on Conversations LIVE on Thurs. September 18th @ 8p.m. et (7p.m. ct/5p.m. pt). You can catch it live or via podcast at www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive. 

Look for interviews with authors Ginger Alden, J. L. King and Betty Halbreich throughout the month of September as well. Details can be found at www.conversationsliveradio.com. 

(Thurs. August 7th) Author JaQuavis Coleman's Booksigning: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Conversations Book Club thanks those who came out to meet New York Times bestselling author JaQuavis Coleman of the award-winning duo Ashley and JaQuavis at Books-A-Million in Jackson, MS, making his event a success.

Book lovers came as far as Natchez and Bolton to meet the author, get books signed and discuss their favorite books.

JaQuavis' new book BLACK STREET had sold out before his event in Jackson,however, he was more than happy to sign his other solo novels as well as those he had co-wrote with his wife Ashley Antoinette.

Stay connected with the authors at www.ashleyjaquavis.com as well as on twitter at www.twitter.com/realjaquavis.

(Review) A Pinch of Ooh La La by Renee Swindle

by Cyrus Webb

Tuesday is right around the corner, and that means lots of new music and books will be entering the arena, vying for your attention. If there is one book you should DEFINITELY make a point of adding to your reading list it would have to be A PINCH OF OOH LA LA by author Renee Swindle. 

I was introduced to the gifted storyteller through her book SHAKE DOWN THE STARS, and I knew then she would be someone to watch. In A PINCH she doesn't disappoint: getting us into the life of Abbey Ross, a woman who is looking for her happy ever after---but is in danger of losing herself in the process.

The book allows us to see Abbey as a woman who is a businesswoman, doing what she loves: making people happy through her bakery yet still feeling incomplete because her personal life (aside from some colorful friends) was anything but lackluster. When she is introduced to Samuel Howard it seems (on the surface) that her dreams of having the ideal life are going to come true---but at what cost? Not listening to her inner voice and choosing instead to do what is expected she turns down a course where she is giving herself away piece by piece.

In A PINCH OF OOH LA LA Swindle once again finds a way to show that though you might can have it all it doesn't always come in the package we (or others) might expect. Abbey realizes that she has to make some real choices, and though they might be what is best for her it won't necessarily be easy.

I mentioned that Abbey has some friends she can rely on along the way, but another character in the book that makes an appearance in the very beginning and stays present throughout definitely can't be denied----and that is music. Swindle allows that to be the soundtrack of not just Abbey's moods and adventures but a part of the lives of others, too. Music has a way of not just bringing you calm but creating memories that can be pleasant, painful and in some cases peaceful.

Entertaining and definitely a conversation piece for men and women can get something out of, A PINCH OF OOH LA LA serves us a delicious read for the summer.

(Thurs. August 7, 2014) NYT Bestselling Authors Ashley & Jaquavis Return to Mississippi

Conversations Book Club is excited to announce that New York Times Bestselling authors Ashley Antoinette & Jaquavis Coleman are returning to Mississippi Thursday, August 7, 2014 for a book signing and discussion at Books-A-Million (4950 Hwy 55 N * Jackson, MS).

"It's been 3 years since their last visit to the Magnolia State," says Cyrus Webb, book club President. "We're glad to have them back, and I know their fans will enjoy the opportunity as well."

With over 40 titles between them, the writing duo will be meeting fans in Jackson, MS as well as signing both new and old titles. Ashley's new book is THE PRADA PLAN: Love and War and JaQuavis' new title is BLACK WALL STREET.

"This is a chance for Central Mississippi to really come out and support a great event with two talented authors," says Webb.

This event is open to the public, and readers are encouraged to come out for pictures and to bring their already-purchased titles as well to get signed. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can visit Ashley and JaQuavis online at www.ashleyjaquavis.com and Conversations Book Club at www.conversationsbookclub.com.

#ThrowbackThursday Interview: Cyrus Webb Presents...The John Henderson Story 12/23

In December 2013 Conversations LIVE host Cyrus Webb found out about a man who had lost over 100 pounds in one year. His name was John Henderson, and he granted Conversations his first radio interview to discuss his life's journey, what kept him motivated and his advice for others.

Since the interview he has lost a total of over 170 pounds, and is inspiring others to be the best of themselves. Listen to the conversation here: Cyrus Webb Presents...The John Henderson Story 12/23 by theconversationshow | Current Events Podcasts

Author Tiffany Alexander's Visit to Pearl, MS: Mission Accomplished!

Thanks to all of those who made the visit of author Tiffany Alexander to Pearl, MS on Saturday, July 12, 2014 a success.

It all began with a fun 2 hours of meeting patrons and signing books at the Pearl Public Library.

From there it was on to get a bite to eat and meet readers at Appetizers Restaurant.

For those who missed seeing Tiffany you can get autographed copies of her books exclusively at www.childrensband.com.

Children's Book Author Tiffany Alexander Visits Central Mississippi, Sat. July 12th

Conversations Book Club is excited to announce that inspirational children's book author Tiffany Alexander will be visiting Central Mississippi on Sat. July 12th in two special events in Pearl, MS.

"It's an honor to host Ms. Alexander in Rankin County," says Cyrus Webb, President of Conversations Book Club. "She's one of those individuals that is able to not just entertain readers but give them important messages as well. I know that many will benefit from her characters and her stories."

Her titles include EBENEZER OPENS A SAVINGS ACCOUNT, DUDLEY'S SOLO, TITO'S TASTY SNACKS, DEZZI'S DANCE RECITAL and ESMERELDA'S SPEECH.

 On Saturday, July 12th Tiffany will be signing her books at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) from 1-3p.m. and then be a special guest at a meet and greet at Appetizers Restaurant (3000 Hwy 80 E * Pearl, MS) from 5-7p.m. Admission to both events is free, however, the author will have books available for purchasing.

For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.conversationsbookclub.com. To find out more about the author visit www.childrensband.com.

Conversations Summer Book Fair 2014: Mission Accomplished!

Conversations Book Club wishes to thank all of those who came out and supported its Summer Book Fair on Sat. June 28th at the Pearl Public Library (Pearl, MS).

(seen above Pearl Public Library Reference Supervisor Eleanor Jones, author Glenda L. Hunter, author Joseph Barnett, author Jane Congdon, author Kelly Stone, author Andre Johnson and Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb) 

Authors Darlene Collier, Glenda Hunter, Kelly Stone, Andre Johnson and guest authors Jane Congdon and Joseph Barnett were able to meet book lovers, discussing their individual titles.

It was also a great opportunity for the authors to get to know each other better. CONVERSATIONS: Feeding your love of life! www.conversationsbookclub.com. 

(Sat. June 28, 2014) Conversations Book Club Presents its Summer Book Fair 2014

Conversations Book Club is excited to announce that this year's Summer Book Fair will take place on Sat. June 28, 2014 from 1-3p.m. at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) and will feature some of Mississippi's bright literary voices and some special guests.

Authors from Mississippi that will be at this year's event are Kelly Stone (I Dance For You * Chasing Blossom), Darlene Collier (Married to Sin), Glenda L. Hunter (An Unspeakable Secret * It Finally Happened) and Andre Johnson (Man with Three Faces: Yearning For Control). "This year's event will be a mixture of not just authors from around the state of Mississippi but special guests siblings/authors Joseph Barnett (Mr. Joe) and Jane Congdon (It Started with Dracula) will be joining the group as well," says Cyrus Webb, book club President and founder of the yearly event. "We're excited to bring these authors together for readers around the state to meet, discover their work and be inspired by their individual journeys."

Admission to the event is free, however, each author will have books available for purchasing.

For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or call 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.conversationsbookclub.com and www.mississippireads.com.

Conversations' Top 10 Summer Reads for Young Readers (2014)

Conversations Book Club loves to share books for all age groups, especially young readers, and 2014 is no exception. Introducing our Top 10 Summer Reads for young Readers!

Conversations' 2014 Top 10 Summer Reads for Young Readers (in no particular order)

1. "Swagger" by Carl Deuker (Houghton Mifflin)
2. "Miracle Mud" by David A. Kelly (Millbrook Press)
3. "My Friend Suhana" by Shaila Abdullah & Aanyah Abdullah (Loving Healing Press)
4. "Teardrop" by Lauren Kate (Delacorte Press)
5. "Giants in the Land" by Clark Rich Burbidge (Wine Press Publishing)
6. "The Ring & the Crown" by Melissa de la Cruz (Hyperion)
7. "Conspirators of the Lost Sock Army and the Loose Change Collection Agency" by Dan O'Brien 
8. "The Numberlys" by William Joyce & Christina Ellis (Moonbot Books/Simon and Schuster)
9. "Say What You Will" by Cammie McGovern (Harper Teen)
10. "Odessa Again" by Dana Reinhardt (Wendy Lamb Books/Random House)

Cyrus Webb Presents... Conversations' 2014 Top 25 Summer Reads

It is one of Conversations' most exciting events each year: the big reveal of its Top 25 Summer Reads for adults.

"As a lover of books, I am always excited to share titles that have spoken to me personally," says Cyrus Webb, media personality and President of Conversations Book Club. "Once again the authors I've read have not made this year's list easy to compile, but that just means there are a lot of great books for readers to choose from."

Conversations' 2014 Top 25 Summer Reads have a little something for everyone: action and adventure, trials and redemption and even a bit of humor.

It is the hope of Cyrus Webb and Conversations that you will add some of their favorite titles to your reading list for the summer.

Conversations' Top 25 Summer Reading List for 2014 (listed in no particular order)

1. "Confessions of a Wild Child" by Jackie Collins (St. Martins Press)
2. "The Cottage on Juniper Ridge" by Sheila Roberts (Harlequin Mira)
3. "I Dance For You" by Kelly Stone 
4. "Secrets to Surrender (Living Wholeheartedly)" by Debby Akerman (New Hope Publishing)
5. "Not My Will" by Khara Campbell (Delphine Publications)
6. "Death's Way" by Christopher Valen (Conquill Press)
7. "Revenge Wears Prada" by Lauren Weisberger (Simon & Schuster)
8. "The Harm In Asking" by Sara Barron (Three Rivers Press)
9. "When Perfection Fails" by Tyora Moody (Urban Christian)
10. "Postcards from Cookie" by Caroline Clarke (Harper Collins)
11. "Pressed Pennies" by Steven Manchester (The Story Plant)
12. "Saint Monkey" by Jacinda Townsend (W. W. Norton & Co.)
13. "Death Never Sleeps" by E. J. Simon (Simon/Zef)
14. "A Forest of Doors: An Orphan's Quest" by L. A. Muse (innovo Publishing)
15. "A Very Dystopian Holiday Reader" by Dan O'Brien 
16. "Pillow Talk int he Heat of the Night" (Peace in the Storm Publishing)
17. "Commit to Get Fit" by Laura Dion-Jones
18. "Out of the Ruins" by Karen Barnett (Abingdon Press)
19. "Magnolia Mud" by Randy Pierce (Dogwood Press)
20. "The Writers Afterlife" by Richard Vetere (Three Rooms Press)
21. "Debbie Doesn't Do It Anymore" by Walter Mosley (Doubleday/Random House)
22. "My Wife My Baby...and Him" by Sheila E. Lipsey (Bonita and Hodge Publishing Group)
23. "A Promise in Pieces" by Emily T. Wierenga (Abingdon Press)
24. "Her Heart's Desire" by Lisa Watson (Kimani Romance)
25. "Social Death" by Tatiana Boncompagni (Tudor City Press)

Book-signing for authors Glenda Hunter & Darlene Collier a Success!

Thanks to those who made the booksigning for Mississippi authors Darlene Collier and Glenda L. Hunter a success.

The event, held on Saturday, March 29, 2014, was hosted by Conversations Book Club at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl,MS)

Look for more events to come!

Conversations Announces April 2014 Book Selection: Poetic Meter and Random Prose

Conversations Book Club is excited to announce that it's April 2014 book club selection is POETIC METER AND RANDOM PROSE.

Published by FreedomInk Publishing, the book is perfect for National Poetry Month. "I have enjoyed this book since I first heard about it," says Cyrus Webb, President of Conversations Book Club. "With April being the month meant to celebrate the gift of words I thought it was a great time to introduce it to others."

On Sunday March 30th Webb talked with Katandra Shanel Jackson, President of FreedomInk and contributing authors/poets Phoenix and Ramona Jones on Conversations LIVE to discuss the book and their role in it. You can listen to their interview here: http://tobtr.com/s/6257839.

Get your own copy of POETIC METER AND RANDOM PROSE at www.freedomink365.com.