Music can elevate the soul—or expose its deepest cracks. In The Well-Tempered Violinist by Barbara T. Carlton, art, ambition, and emotion intertwine in a story that resonates long after the final note. Learn about this historical fiction novel and author--and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post. 

Book 1 of The Gift

Historical Fiction

Date to be Published: November 5, 2025

Publisher: Acorn Publishing

But the violin Marthe’s father left her is a constant reminder of the profound bond between them, and it gives her the strength to begin healing. When the Köln Conservatory offers her an unexpected scholarship, she seizes her chance to reach for excellence.

Under the rigorous tutelage of Professorin Wolff, and subjected to predatory harassment by a fellow student determined to destroy both her self-worth and her chances of success, Marthe quickly learns she will need more than motivation and talent to rise to the top.

Filled with heart, wit, and music, The Well-Tempered Violinist is an enduring coming-of-age tale about an artist striving for greatness against enormous odds.

The Well-Tempered Violinist, Book 1 of The Gift series, is her first novel.

Connect with the Author

Facebook: Barbara Thornburgh Carlton, Writer

Instagram: @btcarlton_writer 

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I love finding new thrillers and mysteries--especially novella-length ones--and I have one to share this morning! Beneath Cozumel's shimmering waters lies a secret worth killing for.  Beneath Cozumel’s shimmering waters lies a secret worth killing for. In Echoes of Fortune: Shadows Over Cozumel, bestselling author David R. Long delivers a gripping blend of mystery, history, and nonstop action that will keep you turning the pages! 

Date Published: November 11, 2025

What would you risk to uncover a secret buried for over 150 years?

From bestselling and multi–award-winning author David R. Leng comes the next pulse-pounding installment in the Echoes of Fortune series. 

His debut, Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold, captivated readers and earned a 4.5-star rating on Goodreads. Now the adventure continues with a brand-new novella that plunges deeper into history’s deadliest secrets. 

When historian Jack Sullivan, Smithsonian curator Emma Wilson, and fellow former Navy SEAL Steve Johnson set out for a Thanksgiving dive off Cozumel, they expect nothing more than warm waters and forgotten wrecks. Instead, they uncover a Confederate ghost ship that vanished in 1865—along with a sealed brass tube containing secrets powerful enough to change history. 

But they’re not alone. Shadowy mercenaries and a black-hulled yacht stalk their every move, determined to silence them before the truth surfaces. From dazzling reefs to the back alleys of Veracruz, Jack and his team are forced into a deadly game where history isn’t past—it’s a weapon. 

Some secrets don’t want to be found. And some will kill to stay buried. 

Perfect for fans of Steve Berry, Clive Cussler, Dan Brown, and James Rollins, Shadows Over Cozumel delivers nonstop action, historical intrigue, and a mystery that spans centuries.

Chapter 1

Cozumel Mexico

Thursday, November 22, 2018

8:56 AM

The black mega yacht waited beyond Cozumel’s harbor mouth, a dark predator lurking in sunlit waters. Cruise ships gleamed at the pier, fishing boats slipped out toward the open sea, but this vessel did not belong. Sleek, silent, and perfectly placed in deeper water, it radiated intent. 

At the bow rail, a man in a white Panama hat with a dark band stood with military stillness, his weathered hands gripping the binoculars trained on the harbor. A gold watch caught the light as he lifted his wrist to check the time. 

A striking young woman approached in a sheer white cover-up over her swimsuit, her smile as rehearsed as the silver tray she carried. She might have been a model from one of the glossy magazines scattered in the salon, another prop in the theater of wealth the man commanded. 

Ice clinking, he took the drink without a glance, eyes locked on the port, as if even beauty and luxury were beneath his notice. 

“Sir,” a subordinate murmured, appearing at his shoulder, “the Americans arrived last evening. Right on schedule.” 

The binoculars never wavered.

“Our marine park contact confirmed they requested to dive La Sombra.” The man paused, then continued in his Caribbean accent, “We’ve been tracking them since they arrived. Sullivan—the professor, the tall one. His Smithsonian curator fiancée. And his fellow former SEAL friend. Our hacker says he’s been digging into the Del Rio.” 

Through the lenses, he watched three figures board the Maria Elena—a tall, blond man helping the athletic woman with her gear, the muscular Black man arranging air tanks with quiet efficiency. 

“Possibly lethal. High profile,” he noted. “We should keep this out of the media if we can. Let them dive.” He lowered the binoculars, his eyes tracking the dive boat pulling from the pier. “But if they become a problem...history will bury them too.” 

David R. Leng, known for his expertise in risk management and insurance, now ventures into the world of fiction with his latest historical thriller, Echoes of Fortune. With a distinguished career spanning over 30 years, David is the author of International #1 Best Sellers including "Insured to Fail" and "The 10 Laws of Insurance Attraction," and has saved clients over $42 million in premiums and overcharges. 

As Executive Vice President and Partner of the Duncan Financial Group, David is celebrated for his innovative Risk Profile Improvement Process and has earned numerous accolades, including Advisor of the Year by the Institute of WorkComp Professionals. 

An avid contributor to industry publications, David’s passion extends beyond his professional achievements to include boating, skiing, woodworking, and supporting his local high school’s musical productions. His foray into historical thrillers reflects his deep storytelling skills and a lifelong commitment to engaging and captivating audiences.

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Your love of books does not have to break your budget--even if you love all of the books! Whether you love eBooks, audiobooks, or physical editions, countless websites and apps offer free books, deep discounts, and exclusive deals. In this guide, we’ll explore the best resources for affordable reading — so you can fill your shelves (and your e-reader) without emptying your wallet. 

Why Book Deals Matter

Book spending can really add up--especially if you read several books a month. Between new releases, special editions, and audiobooks, the costs add up fast. The good news? You can still support authors, discover new favorites, and explore every genre imaginable — at a fraction of the price — just by knowing where to look.

Below is my go-to list of trusted sites and services that every reader should bookmark.

1. BookBub: Your Personalized Book Deal Finder

BookBub is one of the most popular and reliable sources for daily book deals. Once you create a free account, you’ll receive customized email updates featuring eBook discounts based on your favorite genres and authors. Many titles are free or under $3.

Why It’s Great:

• Personalized recommendations based on your reading habits.
• Frequent deals from major publishers and top indie authors.
• Seamless links to buy directly from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Apple Books. 

2. Libby & Hoopla: Free Books Courtesy of Your Library

Your local library is one of the best and most underrated tools for frugal readers. Apps like Libby (by OverDrive) and Hoopla let you borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and even graphic novels from the comfort of your phone — completely free.

Why It’s Great:

• 100% free to use with your library card.
• Huge catalog covering bestsellers, classics, and new releases.
• Instant digital checkouts — no late fees!

If you haven’t downloaded Libby yet, it takes less than five minutes to connect with your local library and start reading.

3. ThriftBooks: Affordable Used Books with Rewards

If you prefer the feel (and smell!) of a physical book, ThriftBooks is an excellent site for low-cost used copies. Prices often start under $5, and you can earn points toward free books through their ReadingRewards program.

Why It’s Great:

• Massive inventory of gently-used books, including out-of-print editions.
• Free shipping on orders over $15.
• Rewards points for every purchase.

4. Audible & Libro.fm Free Trials for Audiobook Lovers

If you’re always on the go or love multitasking while “reading,” audiobooks are a game-changer. Both Audible (by Amazon) and Libro.fm offer special trial memberships that include drastically reduced monthly rates during the trial or audiobook credits.

Why It’s Great:

• Get a free audiobook during your trial (that you keep forever).
• Libro.fm supports independent bookstores with every purchase.
• Frequent members-only sales and curated recommendations.

After the trial, you can often switch to their lower-cost plans or take advantage of seasonal sale bundles.

Here is the current Audible Trial plan! 

5. Project Gutenberg & Open Library: Free Classics Forever

Love the classics? Project Gutenberg and Open Library are two of the oldest and most ethical sources for legally free books. These digital libraries feature thousands of public domain titles — from Pride and Prejudice to Dracula.

Why It’s Great:

• Completely free and safe to use.
• Download in multiple formats (ePub, Kindle, plain text).
• Great for students, researchers, and vintage literature fans. 

You can even integrate the catalogs with e-reader apps to access offline.

6. Book Outlet: Deep Discounts on New Books

Book Outlet is a goldmine for bargain hunters who still want new copies. It sells publisher overstock and returns at 50–90% off retail prices, often including recent bestsellers.

Why It’s Great:

• Brand-new books for a fraction of the price.
• Great for bulk buyers and gift shopping.
• Frequent clearance events and seasonal sales.

If you have a book blog, Book Outlet also offers affiliate opportunities to help you earn commissions from shared links.

How Can you Maximize Your Book Savings

• Stack Deals: Combine publisher sales with sitewide discounts or coupon codes.
• Join Loyalty Programs: Places like ThriftBooks and Book Outlet reward repeat customers.
• Set Alerts: Use Google Alerts or BookBub’s wish list to be notified when your favorite titles go on sale. 
• Use Browser Extensions: Tools like Honey or Rakuten can apply coupons or give you cashback for purchasing your books online.    www.rakuten.com/r/MAMASW22?eeid=28187

Final Thoughts

Finding affordable or free books doesn’t mean sacrificing quality — it simply means being a smart reader. With tools like BookBub, ThriftBooks, Libby, and more, your next great read is always within reach.

Whether you’re building a personal library or exploring new genres, these resources make reading more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Remember to share or bookmark this guide — and check back often, as new book deal sites pop up all the time!

When the wilderness becomes both teacher and test, survival is only part of the story. In Never Lost by Aaron C. Anderson, man and nature meet in a raw, soul-stirring journey through the untamed heart of Idaho’s backcountry. Part survival tale, part spiritual odyssey, this novel explores what it truly means to endure — and to stay connected to the wisdom of generations past. Learn more about this book and its author--and be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post. 

General Fiction

Date Published: October 23rd, 2025

Publisher: Acorn Publishing

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affiliate partner. 

About the Book

 

Zane Carter and his sons, eleven-year-old Ty and thirteen-year-old Joseph, venture one hundred miles into the Idaho wilderness with only a knife and the knowledge of their Nez Perce ancestors. Danger awaits at every deadfall and lurks in every snowy shadow as the boys hunt, fish, make weapons, and build shelter, learning to survive, taking only what they need from the land, and leaving no trace.

 

During their eighteen-day journey, Zane’s determination to fulfill a promise to his grandfather, an Indigenous warrior who exemplified the tenets of a wise and spiritual existence, is thwarted by a fatal encounter that transports Zane into an ancient realm as he straddles the thin line between life and death.

 

He wonders what has become of his boys. Have they learned enough patience, resourcefulness, and courage to complete this rite of passage? Will they make it out of the wildlands alive? Or will the unforgiving forces of the natural world take them too far from home to ever return?

 

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About the Author

After high school, Aaron Anderson set out to see the world, embarking on adventures through North America, Europe, and North Africa. He enjoyed traveling as a bicyclist, motorcyclist, train passenger, and even as a hitchhiker, reveling in the excitement of the unknown.

 

At the age of twenty-two, Aaron returned to the US and worked on oil rigs in Wyoming. He later became a carpenter and eventually a real estate appraiser. However, his true passions have always been writing, developing powerful friendships, and exploring new country. 

 

During the 1980s he and his two sons hunted, hiked, and camped throughout the western states. Here, his love for the natural world and respect for Indigenous people prompted him to write his second novel, Never Lost.

 

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Before video games and smartphones, adventure was homemade — and sometimes a little hazardous. Pintsized Pioneers at Play: Homemade Frontier Fun and Danger by Preston Lewis and Harriet Kocher Lewis invites readers to step back into the dusty boots of frontier childhood, where imagination ruled and every day promised discovery — or danger! Learn about the book and the authors & be sure to enter for a chance to win a prize in the book tour giveaway at the end of this post.

Homemade Frontier Fun and Danger written by Preston Lewis and Harriet Kocher Lewis

Date Published: 11-04-2025

Publisher: Bariso Press

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While their parents settled the land, these pintsized pioneers explored it, creating their own adventures with homemade toys, daring games, wild animal encounters, and risky escapades. This engaging sequel to the award-winning Pintsized Pioneers: Taming the Frontier, One Chore at a Time shines a spotlight on the joys and perils of play in a land still being tamed. 

From exploring the prairie and wrangling critters to celebrating frontier holidays and watching traveling circuses, this book reveals how children carved out fun and entertainment in a rough-and-tumble world. Learn how railroads and mail-order catalogs brought new toys, how schools and churches doubled as social hubs, and how a simple game could end in laughter—or injury. 

Written for young adults but fascinating for readers of all ages, Pintsized Pioneers at Play is packed with history, heart, and a hint of danger. Written at a tenth-grade reading level perfect for curious minds, Pintsized Pioneers at Play includes a glossary of related terms. 

Perfect for fans of Western history, educators, homeschoolers, and lovers of untold American stories!

https://mybook.to/PinsizedPioneersatPlay

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About the Authors

 Preston Lewis is the award-winning author of more than sixty western, historical, juvenile, and nonfiction works. In 2021 he was inducted into the Texas Institute of Letters for his literary achievements. The Will Rogers Medallion Awards named him the 2025 recipient of the organization’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the literature of the American West.

Western Writers of America (WWA) has honored Lewis with three Spur Awards, one for best article, a second for best western novel and a third one for YA nonfiction in 2025. He has received eleven Will Rogers Medallion Awards (seven gold, two silver and two bronze) for written western humor, short stories, YA nonfiction, short nonfiction, and traditional Western novel. 

Harriet Kocher Lewis is a retired physical therapist and PT educator. As an assistant clinical professor of physical therapy at Angelo State University, she taught documentation and scientific writing among other topics as the department’s coordinator of clinical education. 

After retirement she became the publisher of Bariso Press and in that capacity an award-winning author and editor. Books she has edited have earned a Spur Award, Will Rogers Gold and Bronze Medallions for YA nonfiction and western humor, a Literary Global Book Award for cookbooks, and an Independent Author Award for western nonfiction. Other books she has edited have been finalists for Spur Awards in juvenile nonfiction and for Independent Author Awards for both memoirs and humor. 

Kocher Lewis is co-author with her husband of the Spur Award-winning Pintsized Pioneers: Taming the Frontier, One Chore at a Time and three books on artificial Intelligence, all published by Bariso Press. They live in San Angelo, Texas.

Connect with the Authors

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Twitter: @prestonlewisaut

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Instagram: @barisopress

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