Showing posts with label memoirs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label memoirs. Show all posts

Thursday 4 January 2024

ABOUT BANKER TURNS WRITER

 




VISIT BANKER TURNS WRITER WEBSITE, CLICK HERE

Trinidadian author, Brenda Mohammed has published 56 books in science fiction, romance, self-help, mystery, children's books, psychological thrillers, Christian books, poetry, and poetry anthologies

One of her memoirs is, I Am Cancer Free, a moving story of her near-death experience and how God moved in her life to bring about her miraculous healing.  A former Bank Manager, Brenda won an award for this book in the category of Health and Fitness, in Readers Favorite International Awards. At that same award function, she won an award for her science fiction book, Zeeka Chronicles in the category of young adult thriller.

Brenda's Christian books are for End Times - Chosen by the Creator, He is the One, Your Time is Now, True Power of Love, Highway to Joy Eternal, Serenity in End Times, and God-Fearing Ones.

She won several literary awards in the USA, Peru, Kazakhstan, Seychelles, Nigeria, India, Romania, Argentina, Ukraine, Morocco, Philippines, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Barcelona, Madrid, France, Switzerland, Italy, Sri Lanka, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic, Pakistan, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Honduras, China, Chile, Mexico, Trinidad, and the UK.

She is an advocate for Peace, Suicide Prevention, and Against Domestic Violence.

All of Brenda’s books are on Amazon. 

CLICK HERE FOR AMAZON LINK

 

Friday 4 February 2022

BEST BOOKS TO READ IN 2022

 



BEST BOOKS TO READ IN 2022

If you are looking for books of every genre to read in 2022, check out the Amazon page of award-winning Author Brenda Mohammed. 

CLICK HERE


Thursday 1 July 2021

SLEEP IS GOOD AND BOOKS ARE BETTER

 "SLEEP IS GOOD AND BOOKS ARE BETTER"  - George R.R. Martin



VIDEO OF BOOK PUBLICATIONS BY BRENDA MOHAMMED

Brenda C. Mohammed, a former Bank Manager from Trinidad is a multi-genre, bestselling, and multi-award-winning author. To date, she has published thirty-eight books.
Her genres include memoirs, science fiction, romance, self-help, mystery, children’s books, psychological thrillers, poetry, and poetry anthologies.
She won several literary awards in the USA, Peru, Kazakhstan, Seychelles, Nigeria, Argentina, Romania, India, Morocco, and the UK, and made headlines in several newspapers around the world.
In 2018 she was appointed by Kairat Duissenov Parman, the Former President of the World Nations Writers Union, as an Honorary Member of the World Higher Literary Academic Council of the World Nations Writers' Union of Kazakhstan. Among her Literary awards are those from the World Nations Writers Union as follows:
1.World Laureate in Literature 2018.
2. Certificate of Honour for serving as a juror in an International Poetry Contest 2018.
3. World Poetic Star Award 2019.
4. Award for Merits to the Development of World Literature 2020 for herself as well as the How to Write for Success Literary forum she founded.
5. World's Best Literary Jury Member Award 2020.
In 2019, she was appointed National President of Grupo- UniĆ³n Hispanomundial De Escritores - UHE Trinidad and Tobago, by Executive President and Founder Carlos Hugo Garrido Chalen, and was honoured by UHE with the following awards:
1. World Award of Excellence in Literature by the Provincial Municipality of Urubamba, Republic Government of Peru in 2020.
2 Poetry award from UHE in 2020, as a posthumous tribute to the great poet Kairat Duissenov Parman, Founding President of the World Nations Writers Union of Kazakhstan.
3. Caesar Vallejo 2020 for one of the most outstanding in Literature.
4. World Prize of the Golden Eagle Award for Excellence in Literature 2021.
On 8th June 2021, The School of Arts and Poetry awarded her the Torchbearers Award for her immense contribution to Literature, via the How to Write for Success Literary Forum that she founded in February 2018.
Brenda is an advocate against Domestic Violence and Suicide. Together with several bestselling authors, her forum HTWFS has published four best-selling anthologies for these causes: - A Spark of Hope Volumes 1 and 2, and Break the Silence Volumes 1 and 2.
There are free book giveaways too.




Thursday 3 October 2019

TWENTY FOUR BOOKS YOU MUST READ


Here is a list of books written by Author Brenda Mohammed that you must read in 2019/2020. 
They are available at Amazon Stores Worldwide. CLICK HERE

I am Cancer Free: A Memoir is the true story of a Cancer Survivor.
You will learn that cancer does not have to be a death sentence.
It won two prestigious awards
1. Winner in the Category Non-Fiction in the McGrath House Indie Book Awards 2016.
2.Winner in the category Health and Fitness in Readers Favorite International Book Awards 2018.

My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living is a motivational memoir of Brenda's life in banking.
You will be inspired to find the courage to go on, never giving up, even when the road of life curves.

The book placed second in the Category Bio/Memoirs in Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.

Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy comprises of three stories in an award-winning series.
It teaches a great lesson.
Revenge does not pay.
The book received a five-star review and five-star seal from Readers Favorite on 14th September 2016.

Retirement is Fun: A new Chapter is filled with travel adventures after the author moved on from a banking career.
You will learn when one door closes, several others open.

Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka: How can one man misuse science for revenge?
This multi-award winning science-fiction novel inspired by the recent scare of the zika virus, and where zombies and robots take center stage, will blow your mind.
It will take you on a futuristic journey into the year 2036.
This science-fiction futuristic thriller won four awards.
1.Winner in the Category Young Adult Thriller in Readers Favorite International Awards 2018.
2. Winner of the gold award in the category science fiction in Emagazine Readers' Choice Awards 2018.
3. Placed in the top ten finalists in the Author Academy Global Awards 2018.
4.Winner in Science Fiction in SIBA Awards 2017.

Memoirs of Dr. A. M. Khan: Journey of an Educator. Get a glimpse into life in the days of Indentureship in Trinidad and Tobago.
The book received four five-star reviews from Readers Favorite in 2018.

Stories People Love - Six exciting short stories of crime, adventure, and love.
The stories are very alluring. The book won two gold awards in Connections EMagazine Readers Choice Awards 2019 - one in the Romance category and the other for topping all genres.

Adventures of Squeaky Doo - Five exciting travel Memoirs of a Teddy Bear. Children love Squeaky Doo.
You will too.

Your Time Is Now: A Time to be Born and a Time to Die. Do you want to find your purpose in Life?
Are you looking for answers?
The book is the recipient of the IHIBRP 5 Star Recommended Read Award Badge.

Heart-Warming Tales - Six thrilling and suspenseful tales of Crime, Love, and Unhappy Marriages, all unified by the same theme - trials and tribulations of love.

Travel Memoirs with Pictures: Exploring the world. is a pictorial memoir of the author's travels. The book is great to read while on a vacation or for some travel inspiration.

Zeeka and the Zombies: Revenge of Zeeka Book 1 is the first book in a spine-chilling science fiction series.

Zeeka's Child: Revenge of Zeeka Book 2 - Mystery surrounds the birth of Zeeka's Child.

Zeeka Returns: Revenge of Zeeka Book 3 - Zeeka decides his fate.

Zeeka's Ghost: Revenge of Zeeka Book 4 - Zeeka's Ghost haunts Steven.

Resurrection: Revenge of Zeeka Book 5 - the sudden appearance of a stranger, bothers Steven.

She Cried for Me is the heart-wrenching autobiography of a stray dog. The book is also available in Audio and is a best seller on Audible.com

How to Write for Success: Best Writing Advice I Received is a popular guide for new and aspiring authors.
The book received a five-star review and five-star seal from Readers Favorite one month after publication.
It also won the gold award in the category Non-Fiction in Connections EMagazine Readers Choice awards 2019.
The book is my inspiration for founding the Facebook group, How to write for Success, with 5200 plus members.
It is very popular amongst university students and new and aspiring authors who have written fantastic reviews about it.


The Gift of Love: Barry Holmes Investigates. is Book 1 in a crime fiction/romance which once topped the Amazon charts in all three categories of Kidnapping Thrillers, Private Investigation Mysteries, and Conspiracy Thrillers.

The Axe Murderer: Barry Holmes Investigates Book 2 is a crime fiction highlighting kidnapping for ransom.

Strength for the Disheartened: Motivational Poems A collection of poems to motivate and inspire.

Dreams of the Heart: A Poetry Collection - a selection of a number of unique poems for romantic poetry lovers.

A Spark of Hope: A Treasury of Poems for Saving Lives - The poems within A Spark of Hope are therapeutic, and some have already saved lives.

Stories that Intrigue - The love story of Sam and Julia, two best selling authors in six intriguing episodes.
The binge and wanderlust of Julia will delight every reader.


All books are available on Amazon Stores Worldwide. CLICK HERE.

Saturday 13 October 2018

A Catalogue of Books by Author Brenda Mohammed


Author of the award-winning science fiction futuristic thriller series 'Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka," Trinidad based Author Brenda Mohammed, a multi-genre and award-winning author, has written nineteen books.

a. Six fascinating memoirs.

b. A five book science fiction series.

c. Two children's books.

d. Four books of short stories.

e. One self-help book on How to Write for Success

f. One Crime Fiction

Brenda, a former Bank Manager was successful in her job.
After her retirement from banking, she ventured into Insurance Underwriting.
After six years, she was awarded Life membership in the Million Dollar Round Table, a Premier Association for Financial Professionals.
A diagnosis of cancer changed her career aspirations and in 2013 she became a writer.

Website/Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Goodreads
Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Apple Books | Google Plus | Youtube


NON FICTION

How to Write for Success – Nonfiction, Writing and Publishing
“Valuable nuggets of truth to use within their own writing career.”

I Am Cancer Free – Nonfiction, Memoir, Health and Fitness. Award-Winner in Readers Favorite International Awards 2018.
“It’s emotional, heartfelt, honest and transparent. The author has told the story with true authenticity.”

Travel Memoirs with Pictures – Nonfiction, Memoir, Travel
“This is a great travel memoir. The author has been so many amazing places!”

My Life as a Banker – Nonfiction, Memoir, Banking
“Real and intense. An unforgettable account of the crisis, choices and challenges she faced in her life.”

Retirement is Fun – Nonfiction, Memoir
“A journey of fun and adventure through many travels, work and family life.”

Your TIME is NOW: A Time to be born and a time to die – Nonfiction, Reference & Quotations
“She breaks down each of these verses, and explains them via her own life experiences. A book of reflection, and what is truly important. Simplifying what we have always complicated.”

Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan: Journey of an Educator – Nonfiction, Memoir
“The physical and emotional traumas shared in the book bring deep feelings of sympathy and empathy.”

FICTION

Revenge of Zeeka series

Zeeka and the Zombies (book 1) – Science Fiction
“These futuristic zombies are definitely unique and refreshing”

Zeeka’s Child (book 2) – Science Fiction
“I was caught off guard and my mind was twisted and turned a few times.”

Zeeka Returns (book 3) – Science Fiction
“The key characters remain strong with the secondary ones providing functional support to the narrative whilst not overloading the story with an unnecessary plot diversion.”

Zeeka’s Ghost (book 4) – Science Fiction
“Unresolved issues, regrets and love are all splendidly woven together with the right mix of startling plot twists the author is masterful at.”

Resurrection (book 5) – Science Fiction
“Once you start reading, you have to continue to the end. The author’s imagination is extremely wide and vivid and she really gives you an exciting glimpse of what the future could possibly turn out to be.”

Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy (books 1 – 3) – Science Fiction
“A one of a kind novella trilogy that delivers an incredible story guaranteed to give readers an absolute sci-fi treat.”

Zeeka Chronicles (books: 1 – 5) – Science Fiction. Award -Winner in Readers Favorite International Book Awards 2018.
“There are plot twists that will leave your head spinning and an exciting hunt for the clever mastermind, Zeeka.”


ROMANCE

Heart-Warming Tales – Romance, Short Stories
“These stories are uplifting in that they demonstrate the better part of human nature and show how fulfilling life is when people can forgive one another and live in harmony.”

Stories People Love – Romance, Short Stories
“This is a neat and extremely readable collection and shows an author who is able to write fiction and nonfiction elements seamlessly.”


CHILDREN'S

She Cried for Me: Autobiography of a Dog – Children’s, Animals
“A heart wrenching true story of a dog’s love for its mistress and vice versa.”

Adventures of Squeaky Doo – Children’s
“Children will surely fall in love with this likable teddy bear and will want to read about all of his adventures.”

AUDIOBOOK
She Cried for Me: Autobiography of a Dog Audible Audiobook
Brenda Mohammed (Author, Publisher), Shaina Summerville (Narrator)

NEW RELEASE - CRIME FICTION

The Gift of Love: Barry Holmes Investigates

What was The Gift of Love and who was the recipient?
The Book is the exciting prequel to a new mystery/detective series Barry Holmes Investigates.
You would not want to miss this.

Follow Brenda on Amazon. CLICK HERE

Wednesday 18 July 2018

Why do I Write




Why do I Write?

I have been asked this question numerous times.
My answers have varied over time because it is a question I sometimes also ask myself.
My first response is that I write to entertain readers.
Secondly, every book that I write can teach the reader something.
I do not write for intellectuals.
However, intellectuals can also learn from the books I write, because except for my science fiction books, I write about true life events though in some cases they are fictionalized.
I started writing after my retirement from Banking and Insurance and my bout with Cancer.
The first book I wrote was a Memoir 'I am Cancer Free.'
My reason for writing that book was to tell others who may be affected by that dreaded disease that cancer does not have to be a death sentence.
It was my hope that after reading about my experience they will feel encouraged to take the required steps as I did, to fight the disease.
Since then I have written eighteen books in multi-genres.

a. Six fascinating memoirs.
A reviewer said, "These memoirs are engaging and provide a glimpse of life few of us have seen.
Both history and geography combined with the author's positive outlook bring her stories to life."

b. A five book science fiction series.
In a futuristic world, despite advanced technology and modern scientific methods, human nature never changes.
Greed, the desire to control, and to have power can cause individuals to use science to harm others.
The trend towards vigilante justice can exacerbate as newer generations become bolder, braver, and more educated.
Such was the case on the fictitious island of Gosh in the year 2036.
One man used science coupled with his authoritative position to seek revenge for something he could not forgive and forget.
c. Two children's books.
These stories teach children Geography, Cultures, and love for pets.

d. Four books of short stories.
These short stories all deal with human nature.
There are many lessons to learn from each one.

e. One self-help book on How to Write for Success

My writing journey has not been easy.
In fact, it is difficult spending several hours producing books which remain on the shelves of Amazon and Create Space for weeks without sales.
The books have received good reviews but I am not satisfied that they are getting enough visibility.
I have several Facebook pages for each genre and I have also joined several Facebook groups to promote my books.
I maintain a social media presence on the major sites like Twitter, Linked In, Pinterest, MeWe, and others.
The competition is overwhelming.
I am also constantly bombarded by several persons claiming to be'experts'with several writing courses and webinars.
I waste valuable time checking out some of these courses.
Having said all that, I am not giving up.
I continue to revise my books regularly, update book covers, and keep writing new stories.
Some of my books have received awards, and others have gained five-star reviews and seals from Readers Favorite.
Follow me on AMAZON
Check out my Author's Website.
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel.










Friday 15 June 2018

Why I wrote Seven Memoirs.


At one time I was the youngest in my class in elementary school.
I was also the youngest in my class in High School
When I started to work at the bank I was the youngest employee.
That is no longer the case.
I am now one of the oldest members of my family.
Life changes, but it is worth living.
In my memoir, My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living, I tell it all.

After retiring from Banking, I moved on the Insurance Underwriting which took me on a whirlwind of travel and adventure. It is all detailed in Retirement is Fun: When one door closes another opens.

My children grew up and left the nest. That coupled with my Insurance job necessitated many travels. The result was a spin-off story about my travels. Travel Memoirs with Pictures: Exploring the world was written to record my travel adventures.

Life is not always a bed of roses and I soon realized that when a bout of ovarian cancer almost claimed my life. I lived to tell my story in a book, I am Cancer Free - A Memoir in which I assured others that cancer does not have to be a death sentence.

The scare of cancer helped me to assess my life and connect bible quotations and references to certain events in my life. I wrote Your Time is Now: A Time to be born and a Time to Die to connect those dots.

Dr. Andrew M. Khan was my father. 
He started writing his memoirs a few months prior to his death in 1975, but unfortunately, his call by his Maker prevented him from publishing it. 
In 1989, while I was still working at a bank I compiled the book, Memoirs of Dr. Andrew M. Khan: Journey of an Educator, from his diaries and other hand-written papers.  
A Foreword was written by the former Chief Justice of Trinidad and Tobago Sir Isaac Hyatali [now deceased].
The finished product was made available to friends and relatives and was not published for the wider public. 
This book is a new and revised version.  
I wrote the book because I loved my father and felt that the life of a great Educator who rose to great heights from a humble upbringing despite several setbacks in his life, and the primitive times in which he lived, deserved to be recorded


When my pet dog died I wanted to tell her story. It is a story for all pet and dog lovers. She Cried for Me will touch your heart and I hope that you will read it.

Follow me on AMAZON

Friday 27 April 2018

Newfane Public Library New York acknowledges Brenda Mohammed's Book Donations


On 16th April 2018, I donated six of my paperback publications to Newfane Public Library, New York via someone who was recently appointed Director/Vice President of the Library.

Here is the letter of acknowledgment:
April 24, 2018

"Dear Brenda,
On behalf of the Newfane Library Board of Trustees, I would like to thank you for the very generous donation of six of your books to our Book Fair. We are very excited for the opportunity to add them to our Library.
We are a small rural library, but we consistently strive to bring great programs to our community. Your books will be featured alongside the other authors who were featured in our Local Literature Event. Though you could not join us in person, the addition of your books allows you to be there with your words.
We might be a small library, but we have big ideas! It is never a bad day when you can put authors and readers together. Thank you again for your generosity.

.................
Vice President
Newfane Public Library"



Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka was a winner of an award for best science fiction in Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.
The book received a five-star review from Readers Favorite in 2017 and is a contender for awards in the Author Academy Awards 2018 in the science fiction category.



How to Write for Success is a self- help book for aspiring authors.
The book also received a five=star review from Readers Favorite in 2018.


Your Time is Now: A Time to be Born and a Time to Die is a spiritual non-fiction memoir.
The book is the recipient of the IHIBRP 5 Star Recommended Read Award Badge.


My Life as a Banker" A Life Worth Living was a winner in the Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.


Retirement is Fun was a nominee in the Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.


Memoirs of Dr. Andrew M. Khan is the memoir of a trailblazer in Education in Trinidad and Tobago.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brenda Mohammed was a Bank Manager who loved her job helping commercial businesses with loans and overdrafts for start-ups and expansions.
It was most rewarding for her to see vibrant businesses spring up and improve the economy of the island of Trinidad where she lives.
After her retirement, she ventured into the unfamiliar territory of Insurance Underwriting.
She was required to write several examinations which she passed with flying colours.
After six years, she was awarded Life membership in the Million Dollar Round Table, a Premier Association for Financial Professionals.
A diagnosis of cancer changed her career aspirations and she is now happy to be a writer.
To date, she has published eighteen books.
Her first book published was "I am Cancer Free. – A Memoir."
Follow her on Amazon.
Follow her on Facebook.

Monday 23 October 2017

One book ends with Retirement, the other starts with Working at Living.


Here is a new review for My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living.

My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living"
A Life worth Living] is a wonderful story detailing how the author started at a clerical ...
By Amazon Customer Five Stars
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
My Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living is a wonderful story detailing how the author started at a clerical level and rose to a senior position, solely on the basis of her dedication, hard work, and intelligence.
Brenda Mohammad describes how the manual work was transformed to computerization, her working at different branches and working relationship with her colleagues.
Her farewell party from the fellow workers describes how popular she was during her stay with them.
It was interesting to note, as a tradition, the groom used to write a letter to the bride's father to seek permission to marry his daughter.
This is what happened when her husband proposed her.
Description of her marriage is so beautiful and emotional.
Brenda had an extensive travelling of the United States and Europe; I enjoyed her visits to Germany and Holland the most.
Close knitting in her family and how her parents and her siblings took care of each other is worth reading;
It was touching to read how her father talked to all of his children separately before his death.
Brenda's belief in God is remarkable.

This review is for Retirement is Fun.

Retirement is Fun: When one door closes, another opens
An enjoyable account of retirement from an amazing author!
By Kelly on October 16, 2017, Five Stars
Format: Kindle Edition|Verified Purchase
"Retirement Is Fun" is an enjoyable account of life after retirement, written by an amazing author, Brenda Mohammed. Ms. Mohammed recounts in great detail her decision to embark on a totally new career, with its ensuing challenges and rewards, after retiring from a successful career in banking.
"Why not?" was her mental approach as she entered the world of insurance, quickly rising to the top of the profession as she continually worked tirelessly to increase her skills and abilities.
"Retirement Is Fun" is not only a testament to her success, but to her absolute enjoyment of life and everything it has to offer. Ms. Mohammed writes about her professional successes, but also of her personal life. The reader gets to know her extended family as they are such an integral part of her life. She enjoys her family, travels often and extensively throughout the world, revels in her grandchildren and is a marvelous example of how much one can achieve in life. Such an enjoyable read!

Sunday 3 September 2017

Press Release by Readers Favorite for My Life as a Banker by Brenda Mohammed


For immediate release:
Author's new book receives a warm literary welcome.
Readers' Favorite announces the review of the Non-Fiction - Memoir book "My Life as a Banker" by Mrs. Brenda C. Mohammed, currently available at Amazon.
Readers' Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the "Best Websites for Authors" and "Honoring Excellence" awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies.

"Reviewed By Sarah Stuart for Readers' Favorite

The Foreword to Mrs. Brenda C. Mohammed’s My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living has been written by one of her six sisters, Florabelle Lutchman. She describes it as an account of Mrs. Mohammed’s life, and that is exactly what it is. It opens with the author's earliest memories that, incredibly, date prior to her third birthday. The account follows her development from a child, the eighth of ten born to parents of Indian extraction living in Trinidad in the early twentieth century, to the very different world the island and the business of banking had become by the time she retired in 1999. The message throughout is the strength she draws from her belief in God.

My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living is as intriguing as it is inspiring. Mrs. Brenda C. Mohammed succeeds in her aim of showing how much can be achieved with God’s help, and she leads the reader through two very different worlds. One shows the development of Trinidad from a place that relied on lamps for lighting, and fires for heating and cooking, to the world we know today. The second is the fascinating inside story of banking from the very bottom to the top, and its development from the days when everything was done by hand to the computerized system we now take for granted. This book would appeal to readers who enjoy memoirs, insider stories of a different age and different cultures, and anyone looking for confirmation of the strength that can be gained from an upbringing that fosters a belief in God."
You can learn more about Mrs. Brenda C. Mohammed and "My Life as a Banker" at Readers Favorite where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.
Readers' Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202
800-RF-REVIEW
support@readersfavorite.com
https://readersfavorite.com


Friday 26 May 2017

Books Written By Author Brenda Mohammed



BOOKS BY AUTHOR

I am Cancer Free: A Memoir was the Winner in the Category Non-Fiction in the McGrath House Indie Book Awards 2016. The book also earned a five-star review and five-star seal in February 2017 from Readers Favorite.

My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living placed second in the Category Bio/Memoirs in Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.
Revenge of Zeeka: Horror Trilogy received a five-star review and five-star seal from Readers Favorite on 14th September 2016.

Retirement is Fun: A new Chapter was a nominee in Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.

Zeeka Chronicles: Revenge of Zeeka - Five spine-chilling stories – Book is a nominee for SIBA Awards 2017.

Memoirs of Dr. A. M. Khan - [2014] – Journey of an Educator.

Stories People Love (2014) - Four exciting short stories of crime, adventure, and love.

Adventures of Squeaky Doo (2014) – Travel Memoirs of a Teddy Bear.

Your Time Is Now: A Time to be Born and a Time to Die (2014) – Powerful words of wisdom connect to events in the author’s life. The book includes Inspirational poems.

Heart-Warming Tales (2014) – Five Tales of Crime, Love, and Unhappy Marriages.

Travel Memoirs with Pictures: Exploring the world. [2014]- a Pictorial memoir of the author’s travels.

Revenge of Zeeka: Zeeka and the Zombies [Book 1] [2016] – First book in a spine-chilling series.

Zeeka’s Child [Revenge of Zeeka Book 2] [2016] – Mystery surrounds Zeeka’s Child.

Zeeka Returns [Revenge of Zeeka Book 3] [2016] – Zeeka decides his fate.

Zeeka’s Ghost [Revenge of Zeeka Book 4] [2016] – Zeeka’s Ghost haunts Steven.

Resurrection: [Revenge of Zeeka Book 5] [2017] – Sudden appearance of a stranger, bothers Steven.

She Cried for Me: Autobiography of a stray dog [2017] who found a loving home.

Books are available at Amazon Universal Link

Friday 19 May 2017

Fascinating Memoirs written by Amazing Authors



Meet some Real Lives Authors and read their amazing stories.
But first, look at the Video.



Rich Israel is the author of Groovin': Horses, Hopes, and Slippery Slopes (Hippie Adventurer Book 1).

Here is an extract of a review of his book from Readers Favorite.

The author is a highly skilled storyteller--he describes each scene and person so well that the reader feels he was actually present. The book itself is inviting with meaningful quotes at the beginning of each part, some artwork, and a few photographs. The dialogue is crisp and well-
placed.
The reader is engaged from the first page to the last.
Mr. Israel notes that this book is the first of a series he is calling The Hippie Adventurer Series. Looking forward to the next one!" 5 STARS--Deborah Lloyd, Readers' Favorite
.
Buy the book at Amazon and read this fascinating story.

Kelly Artieri is the author of A Spot in my Heart: Loving a Special Needs Dog

This is what an Amazon Reviewer had to say about her book.

Reading this book is like having a heart to heart conversation with the author about the joys and heartaches of dog ownership.
My dogs are "normal", but, like people, none are perfect.
Communication in any and all forms is essential in all relationships, whether it's dog to dog, people to dog, or people to people.
I like books that entertain and teach at the same time; this book is one of the best in that regard. This is Ms. Artieri's first book, but I certainly hope it won't be her last.

Grab this amazing book at Amazon.

Jeffrey Von Glahn is the author of Jessica: The autobiography of an infant.

Here is one of the book's best reviews.

Who remembers accounts of their infancy? Of being born? Practically no one. But Jessica is an exception. She remembers before and after her birth. And it points out the fact that it’s so important to get a good start because it can profoundly affect the rest of your life either positively or negatively. Dr. Jeffrey takes you through the stages of Jessica’s life and paints a riveting portrayal of a damaged woman who somehow regains her sense of self. Good plot, good pace, excellent story! Good Job!
Get this at Amazon.

John U. Gunter is the author of My Schizophrenia: One Man's Struggles With Mental Illness.

This is what a doctor said about his book.

Your story helps us to be better clinicians and support you and others with recovery." ~ Dr. Celeste Johnson, DNP, ARPN, PMH-CNS.
Buy the book at this link.

Liz Norman and Tracey Samios have written Mum's the Word: Two Mums' Take on Life with Kids
'An exceptionally funny, helpful and wise take on life as a mum with kids.'

I read and reviewed this book.

Here is my review.

This is a book which brought back memories of motherhood.
It was filled with humour, love, and caring.
The authors are right.
Motherhood does not come with a rulebook.
It was well written and made me laugh.

Buy the book at Amazon.

Raquel Fletcher wrote The Year I Turned 25: A Memoir About Sex, Anxiety and a Dog Named She-Devil.

An Amazon Customer said this about the book.

Loved it! A very honest account of living with anxiety and helped make my own struggles feel more normal. I think it's important to open the dialogue about mental illness in order to break the stigma around it and the author does this in a serious but yet humourous way. I highly recommend to all! Thank you so much, Raquel!
Buy the Book at this link.


Mickey Thomas, an ex-marine wrote the book The Grass Swale: Living With Guilt, Depression, and PTSD

I read and reviewed this book also.
Here is my review.

The Grass Swale is a personal Memoir of the life of the author, Mickey Thomas.
He has shared a great deal of personal information with his readers.
Not many people are brave enough to do so.
He blames himself for the death of his brother, but perhaps if he had accompanied him that night, he too may have met his death in that fatal accident.
His experiences in boot camp and as a Marine were terrifying.
No wonder he suffered from PTSD.
His wife, Hope, and four children were stabilizing factors in his life.
He was even blessed with grandchildren.
Despite the many ups and downs in his life, Mickey has a lot for which to be thankful.
The book was interesting and lessons can be learned from it.


Buy the book at this link.


Jonathan Fryer, a British journalist, wrote Eccles Cakes: An Odd Tale of Survival.

Eccles Cakes is beautifully written, poignantly touching, disarmingly frank. Michael Bloch

Buy the book at this link.

Stephen Bentley is the author of Undercover: Operation Julie - The Inside Story.

Here is my review of the book.

This book is an intriguing depiction of drugs, crime, and passion and the arduous lives of police officers. In his memoir, the author relates his experiences as a young detective right up to Detective Sergeant, and then as an undercover agent. Operation Julie was the highlight of his career in undercover work, and it was also the cause of his illness that caused him to resign. The police service treated him shabbily, but he managed to move forward with his life in an admirable way. He pursued a degree in law, followed it up with post-graduate studies, and had a successful career as a criminal defense barrister until his retirement.
The book was a page-turner, and I enjoyed reading it.

Buy the book at this link.

Mary Thorpe wrote a book about her grandmother - That's just how it was.

Here is a glowing review of the book.

Readers should enjoy this poignant read and be able to experience Bridget's woes and triumphs along with her.
Moreover, they will end by thanking God that women like Bridget existed as role models for women everywhere and that such strong, hardy and steadfast women contributed to forming that charming, quirky, determined Irish character which shines in Irish eyes all over the world." (Shayne Langstroth BEd Hons.Med)


Get the book at this link.


Louise Beaubrun Macaluso wrote Broken to Be Blessed: A Turning Point.

I reviewed this book myself and found it inspiring and motivational.

Here is my review.

Broken to be Blessed is an inspiring and motivational memoir.
The author left her native home to go to America for a better life.
While still getting used to a new country, her life changed dramatically eight months after she arrived there.
Her description of the raging fire, which took the lives of five family members and disfigured her, brought tears to my eyes.
Despite the many months turning into years, she spent in the Burn Unit of the hospital obtaining treatment, and the many trials she faced, she overcame all obstacles. She achieved all of her Education goals and found a wonderful husband.
Her strong faith in God and the Bible references she used reminded me of my own life challenges and God’s love, which I too experienced in my life.
Coincidentally, “Great is thy faithfulness,” is also my favorite hymn and theme song.
When I started reading this book it was hard to put down.
It is a page turner.
I recommend this book very highly.

Get the book at Amazon.

Evelyn Mann wrote Miracle In My Living Room: The Story of a Little Mann.

This is another book that I had the privilege of reading and reviewing.

Here is my review.

This book was inspiring and evoked my emotions.
It is indeed a story of hope and faith in God for parents who were determined to see their baby survive despite the doctor's negative diagnosis.
They overcame many trials and obstacles through that eleven-year journey.
Miracles do happen and I believe in miracles because I have experienced many in my life.
I recommend the book to all who are faced with similar circumstances.
Never give up.


Get the book at Amazon.

Ann Marie Mershon wrote You must only to love them: Lessons Learned in Turkey.
This book is really popular and has received 55 reviews to date.

Read this wonderful review from one of her fans.

American author Ann Merson should be Turkey's ambassador for world peace. From the moment she first set foot in this fascinating country, she never wavered from her love of all things Turkish. I know because I lived these stories with her. Ann writes from the heart, with a keen eye for human interest, and with a fascination for the threads that bind humanity. "You must only to love them," states her Turkish friend, and love the Turks and Turkey Ann Mershon does, from the first page to the last. You will be spellbound by the adventures Ann jumps into head first, as well as struck by the kind nature of the Turks emanating from the book's pages, as well as its message of co-existing in and embracing new cultures. For me, the book was a walk down Memory Lane, but for you, it will perhaps be an eye-opener that shows, not a strange and unwelcoming Middle Eastern mindset, as is often portrayed in inaccurate reporting, but a loving and welcoming culture that embraces kindness to one another, helpfulness, and tolerance. Read and savor Ann’s account of her extended international teaching stay.

Get the book at Amazon.

Rebecca Long Howard wrote about a huge catastrophe in her life - The Day After the End of the World: A Tale of Catastrophe and Other Gifts.

One of Rebecca's fans wrote this review.

Habitually, I read with a book propped on something: desk, table, steering wheel (not while driving, I promise).
When I read this book, I had to hold it in my hands.
The author tells the story with her heart and soul, giving the reader the closest glimpse possible of the heartache and triumph she experienced. From fear and tragedy to hope and victory, she made sense of chaos.
Well done.

Get her book at this link.


Peter H. Green is another remarkable author who wrote Radio: One Woman's Family in War and Pieces (Voices of World War II Book 2).

An Amazon reviewer praised Peter's work in this review.

A heart-warming story of a loving and hard working family during World WAR II.
It brings back long forgotten memories of listening to the radio, Victory gardens, rationing books, women in new roles at home and work.
Well done - look back to another era in everyday life.
George Bohigian MD


Buy the book at Amazon


Liesbeth Heenk is a Dutch art historian, author, and publisher. She has written a series on Van Gogh. The books deal with various aspects of the artist's life and work: Van Gogh's Inner Struggle, Van Gogh and Money, Van Gogh in Love. Most of the volumes are available in English, French, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese. She also published the series Amsterdam Museum Books for tourists and visitors who want to get the most out of their trip to Amsterdam.

A reviewer had this to say about Liesbeth's Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam: Highlights of the Collection.

I bought this as a series of ebooks to prepare me for my upcoming trip to Amsterdam. This one is my favorite, since I feel a special connection to Van Gogh. While this book is definitely a great resource for the museum, I was pleasantly surprised at all the history and context included as well. For instance, this book discusses the Japanese influence on some of Van Gogh's work--something I have not read in other books on this artist. In addition, Van Gogh's contemporaries are also discussed. Even the smallest interesting facts--such as the meaning of almond blossoms as it relates to a painting Van Gogh did--are included. Along with maps and resources, the detailed information on Van Gogh in this book is invaluable. A definite must-have for those planning to visit this museum!

Get her books at this link on Amazon.

Cheryl Evans wrote the book I Promised Not to Tell: Raising a transgender child.

Here is an extract of a review from Readers Favorite.

In the closing pages of I Promised Not to Tell by Cheryl B. Evans, the author says she wonders if she has made a mistake in publishing this book. Let me begin by assuring her the only mistake would have been to not publish it. I Promised Not to Tell is quite possibly one of the most important books to date on a very controversial and little understood social issue: transgenderism. I Promised Not to Tell will open a few more minds, clarify the myths and falsehoods, and get more people talking openly about what being transgender really means. I loved I Promised Not to Tell. Couldn't put it down. Highly recommended reading." - Viga Boland for Readers Favorite 5 Stars!

Get the book at this link.

Ann Richardson wrote Life in a Hospice: Reflections on caring for the dying.

Here is the latest review for the book.

Ann Richardson did an excellent job with this book. For some, hearing the word "hospice" may seem intimidating. However, this book is about living; it depicts the lives of individuals who are devoted to selflessly aid fellow human beings who are facing their darkest time. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Life In A Hospice, because it teaches poignant life lessons we all should be aware of in order to be our best selves. I highly recommend it!

Get the book at this link.

Last, but not least, is my story, My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living

This story is not only about banking, but it is about my personal life and how and where I met my husband.
I also wrote about my very first trip abroad which took me to New York, Canada, London, Germany, and Holland.
My Life as a Banker: A Life Worth Living was voted second in Bio/Memoirs in Metamorph's Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016.

Here is one review of the book which I like very much.
Inspiring and eminently interesting story
ByKato's Revenge on June 26, 2016
Format: Paperback
5.0 out of 5.0 stars
For those of us who are not in the banking industry, and for me, especially living in a country where the capital is the financial hub of the country (perhaps the world) you might think a story called My Life As A Banker would be too dry to enjoy.

Author Brenda Mohammed has written quite a few books across different genres. This book is a relatively quick read but readers can be taken along her life's journey as they turn the pages.

I found myself more interested in the 'Life Worth Living' elements of the book. I congratulate her hard work which allowed her to work in the banking industry and get promoted. But I was more interested in the personal side of things, for example how she met her husband (that's an excellent segment of the book) and also attaining her strict father's support for the marriage.

The author's approach to writing this memoir is direct and therefore one imagines this is how she would speak in real life. But the tale is told with such verve and energy, it is an enjoyable book that people will find much to like.

The real life stories contained within are things we can all relate to. Things such as ending up in a great city like Toronto, but being sick at the time and told 'you shouldn't go out then'. But this is not the author's approach to life. If you have read her Travel Memoir With Pictures, you will understand what an accomplished traveller this lady is.

There's some surprisingly gory scenes in the book, tempered by some poignant sadness around certain family members, as well as the central theme of how the author made her living in the banking sector.

It's an interesting and very readable memoir from one of the more creative authors out there.


Get the book at my Amazon Universal link.

There you have it-----Real lives stories by Real Lives Authors,writing books for you to enjoy.





Tuesday 13 September 2016

On Writing Memoirs


#PoweredByIndie


Brenda Mohammed is a multi-genre author living in Trinidad and Tobago who has now written and published fourteen books. Five of her books are memoirs and so we asked Brenda to share what instigated her journey to write such personal stories and share them with the world.

"When I retired from the Bank at an early age, I was depressed. Everyone in my family noticed that in the weeks leading up to my retirement that my demeanour had changed. I had ceased to be jovial and fun loving. My husband and my sisters did their best to brighten up my days and I managed to force a smile or a giggle to appease them, but no one realized that I was feeling as if I had come to the end of my life.

I went through the motions at the grand retirement party, which the bank staff hosted at a popular restaurant in South Trinidad. Customers and staff were present. The ambience was enchanting, and the speeches were great. Superiors, colleagues, customers, and staff showered me with praises and gifts. Their words brought tears to my eyes. However, all I could think about was, ‘What lies ahead for me?’

Fortunately, for me, my husband had planned a trip for both of us to attend a friend’s wedding in Virginia in the USA. We left the morning after the retirement party. All during the flight, I kept remembering the words of the many who spoke at the party. It all seemed like a dream.

When we arrived in Virginia, I felt relaxed. Virginia is remarkably beautiful. We had so much fun over the next three weeks that I forgot all about the bank.

We returned home after a glorious vacation. I gave away all of my working clothes as I felt that I no longer needed them. I decided to dabble in art. Out of nowhere, my talent for art surfaced and I painted several pieces, which I framed and hung in my library.

I applied for other jobs and received positive responses from many firms. I accepted a job in an Insurance Company, and of course had to buy a new wardrobe of clothes. Since I did not have to work full time, I needed something else to keep me busy.

It was then that I decided to write 'My Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living.' The book has been very popular with fellow bankers in Trinidad. I revised the book in 2014, published it on Amazon and Create Space, and donated copies to the National Library of Trinidad and Tobago, and my Alma Mater St. Augustine Girls’ High School.



Later on, I was having so much fun as a retiree, that I wrote, 'Retirement is Fun: A New Chapter.' Notwithstanding my bout with Cancer in 2005 and a terrible car accident, while vacationing in Miami in 2011, retirement has indeed been fun.




My recovery from cancer inspired me to write another memoir, 'I am Cancer Free.'
I am Cancer free was a winner in McGrath House Indie Book Awards 2016.


My career in the Insurance Industry was also successful. I qualified each year for membership in The Million Dollar Round Table [The Premier Association for Financial Professionals], and this gave me many opportunities to travel to different parts of the United States to attend conferences.

My frequent travels worldwide prompted me to write another memoir, Travel Memoirs with Pictures.


I was later inspired to write yet another memoir – 'Your Time is Now : A Time to be Born and a Time to die.' I had a driving force within me to write this one. The book explains it all.





Yet another memoir is my father's memoirs- Memoirs of Dr. Andrew Moonir Khan - A Great Educator in Trinidad and Tobago. I wrote that book a number of years after the death of my father. He was an educator and his story is very motivational. I gathered information from notes and diaries he kept and I put the book together. Past and present Presidents of Trinidad and Tobago have requested copies for their libraries.


Both 'My Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living' and 'Retirement is Fun: A New Chapter' were nominated in the Category Bio/Memoirs for Metamorph Publishing Summer Indie Book Awards 2016. 'My Life as a Banker: A Life worth Living' placed second in that category.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all my Facebook friends, family, former banking colleagues, and friends in Author groups, who all voted for my books.
Books are available at Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, and Create Space.