Fall is the perfect time to read! Trees are looking beautiful!

Posted on October 19, 2026 by jjspina

I love the fall with all the trees dressed in their kaleidoscope of colors that delight the eye. Here are some photos I snapped on a ride to my grandson’s soccer game of all the beauty. It’s beginning to feel more like winter time with the cold temps.

A scenic view of autumn foliage along a highway, displaying vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves among green trees, with a highway sign indicating 'North 93 Mile 8' in the foreground.
A rocky landscape with vibrant autumn foliage in shades of yellow, orange, and red, under a cloudy sky.
Highway sign indicating distances to Derry (7 miles) and Manchester (18 miles) with colorful autumn trees in the background.
Colorful autumn trees with reddish, orange, and yellow leaves beside a clear blue sky.
A view of a vibrant autumn landscape featuring colorful trees in shades of orange, yellow, and green under a clear blue sky.
A scenic view of colorful autumn trees along the roadside, with a cloudy sky overhead and vehicles traveling on the highway.
Colorful autumn foliage along a highway with cars in the foreground.

The weather was quite crisp recently when we went to watch my youngest grandson in his soccer game. His team won 4-2! So proud of him!

Here are some of our backyard looking quite spectacular!

A scenic landscape featuring vibrant autumn foliage with trees in shades of red, orange, and yellow, set against a clear blue sky.
A colorful scene of autumn foliage featuring vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves among green trees under a clear blue sky.
A vibrant scene of autumn foliage with trees displaying shades of red, orange, and yellow against a clear blue sky.
A scenic view of colorful autumn foliage along a trail, featuring vibrant red, orange, and green trees against a clear blue sky.
A picturesque view of trees displaying vibrant autumn foliage, with hues of red, orange, and yellow against a clear blue sky.
Vibrant autumn foliage with a mix of green, red, and yellow leaves against a clear blue sky.
A vibrant autumn landscape featuring trees in various shades of green, yellow, orange, and red against a clear blue sky.

After gazing at the beautiful colors, take some time to take out a good book. Here are some suggestions of course! Haha! These are books for MG/PT, Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Books 1-6 and Abby & Holly Books 1-6. These books are enjoyed by both girls and boys and parents too.

Three books from the 'Abby & Holly' series by Janice Spina are displayed, featuring colorful covers. In the background, two painted pumpkins are visible, surrounded by autumn leaves and corn.
Display of three books from the 'Abby & Holly' series by Janice Spina, featuring Halloween-themed decorations like bats and pumpkins.
Book cover of 'Faulty Timeline' by Janice Spina, featuring bright rainbow colors and a clock graphic, with a white hand sculpture holding a bat-like object in the foreground.
A book cover for 'Abby & Holly School Dance' by Janice Spina, featuring a school building in the background and flowering trees, with autumn decorations visible.
A colorful book cover for 'Faulty Timeline' by Janice Spina, featuring vibrant rays behind the title, alongside a decorative ceramic pumpkin with a spooky face.
A Halloween-themed image featuring three book covers from the 'Abby & Holly' series by Janice Spina, along with decorative elements like bats, pumpkins, and a black cat. The titles include 'School Dance', 'Unfortunate Events', and 'Secrets of the Trunk', with the phrase 'Trick or Treat' prominently displayed.
A book cover titled 'Davey & Derek Junior Detectives: The Case of the Missing Cell Phone' by Janice Spina, alongside decorative straws featuring a ghost and a smiling pumpkin, set against a pink background.
Book cover for 'The Case of the Mystery of the Bells' by Janice Spina, featuring a purple background with illustrations of bells and awards, set against a blurred autumnal forest backdrop.
A book titled 'Jeffrey The Jittery Giraffe' featuring a colorful giraffe illustration, with pumpkins and candles in the background, creating a Halloween-themed atmosphere.
A spooky 'Trick or Treat' grave marker surrounded by cobwebs, featuring three books from the 'Davey & Derek Junior Detectives' series by Janice Spina, each with unique covers.
A collection of books by Janice Spina featuring titles from the 'Davey & Derek Junior Detectives' series, displayed next to a carved pumpkin and candles in a dark, wooded setting.
Halloween scene featuring a carved pumpkin beside a brick wall, with a book titled 'The Case of the Mystery of the Bells' and a smartphone displaying the cover of another book, 'The Case of the Sad Mischievous Ghost.'

All my books for MG/PT carry life lessons that I hope kids will remember and carry with them for a lifetime, e.g., friendship is important, family matters, bullying is never accepted or tolerated, be respectful of elders, be kind to others in need, lend a helping hand to others and show kindness at all times.

My goal in writing for MG/PT/YA is to encourage all ages to read daily to enhance their creativity, increase their vocabulary and enable them to live healthier and happier lives. Keep reading and I will keep writing. Thank you! Happy Reading!

MG/PT/YA books are available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Hop over today to Amazon or Barnes & Noble or click on the covers to the right of this post of the books you choose to purchase and let your MG/PT/YA begin adventures that will lift their spirits, make their hearts soar and spark their imagination! Give gifts of books today and you will give them more than just a book, you will give them wings to fly!

Abby & Holly Series provides more fun and ghostly adventures with cousins, Abby & Holly, as they discover things in their old Victorian and go back to the past to solve mysteries. There are ghosts, a haunted house, time travel, mysteries, and magic. Life lessons will also be learned about friendship, family, respect, love and caring for one another, and bullying will never be accepted or tolerated! MG/PT/YA will be hooked and parents will feel good about the quality of books their children are reading! Adults are reading and enjoying them also!

This Abby & Holly Series has won 8 Book Awards – 6 Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards and 2 Readers’ Favorite Book Awards – Bronze Medal, and an Honorable Mention, and five-star reviews from Readers’ Favorite Book Awards.

Abby & Holly Series Books 1-6 with 8 awards (promo by John
Spina)

This Davey & Derek Series won (11 book awards) – 5 Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards, 3 Readers’ Favorite Book Awards – an Honorable Mention, a Silver Medal, and a Finalist, a Book Excellence Award Finalist, a Silver Medal in the Authorsdb Cover Contest, Top Shelf Awards – First Place and Finalist in Red City Review Book Awards and many 5-Star Reviews from Readers’ Favorite Book Awards.

Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Series is a fun and magical series with spells, wands, a black cat, good witches, time travel, ghost hunting and more. There are also life lessons that include being kind, caring and respectful toward others, listening to parents, being helpful and doing chores, and bullying is never tolerated or accepted. Parents love this series too! When your MG/PT/YA read these books, you will rest easy that they are reading good, clean, and wholesome books. What more could you want in a book for your children? Parents are reading and enjoying them too!

A collage featuring several book covers from the 'Davey & Derek Junior Detectives' series by Janice Spina, alongside a five-star rating graphic, and a logo for 'JEM's Books'. There is also a photo of a woman smiling while seated, suggesting an author or speaker.
PROMO BY BMGN

Read what others are saying about these two series for MG/PT.

Cover of the book 'Davey & Derek Junior Detectives: The Case of the Missing Cell Phone' by Janice Spina with an Amazon review quote highlighting its engaging mystery for young readers.
Davey & Derek Book 1
Book cover of 'Davey & Derek Junior Detectives: Book 2 - The Case of the Mysterious Black Cat' by Janice Spina, featuring a black cat and a review excerpt highlighting the exciting scenarios and characters.
Book cover of 'The Case of the Brown Scraggly Dog' featuring a dog, with an Amazon review highlighting the surprising ending of the story.
Cover image of the book 'The Case of the Mystery of the Bells' by Janice Spina, featuring a review excerpt highlighting the believability of characters and their powers.
Cover of 'Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 3: The Case of the Magical Ivory Elephant' by Janice Spina, featuring an illustration of an elephant and promotional text encouraging readers to enjoy the adventure.
Book 3
A promotional image for the book 'The Case of the Sad Mischievous Ghost' by Janice Spina, featuring a colorful house in the background and a review excerpt highlighting its thrilling, chilling, romantic, and sweet elements.
Book 5
Book cover for 'Abby & Holly: School Dance' by Janice Spina with a blurred background featuring a school building, including a positive Amazon review about the book's entertaining plot and characters.
Abby & Holly Book 1
Book cover of 'Abby & Holly: Secrets of the Trunk' by Janice Spina, featuring a review highlighting themes of ghosts, mystery, friendship, respect, and caring.
Abby & Holly Book 3
Cover of 'Abby & Holly: The Hidden Stairway' by Janice Spina featuring a staircase background and an Amazon review excerpt praising the book's appeal to middle-grade readers.
Abby & Holly Book 4
Book cover of 'Abby & Holly: The Copper Key' by Janice Spina featuring a wooden desk, with a review highlighting suspense and excitement.
Abby & Holly Book 5
Book cover of 'Faulty Timeline' by Janice Spina featuring bright, colorful background and text about the story's captivating characters, including two friendly ghosts.
Abby & Holly Book 6
Cover of the book 'Abby & Holly, Series Book 2: Unfortunate Events' by Janice Spina, featuring a colorful design and a review highlighting themes of adventure, ghosts, mysteries, and friendship.
Abby & Holly Book 2

I hope you introduce your children to these two multi-award-winning series that they will not be able to put down and will ask for more books to complete the series. Parents love them too not only for the interesting and fun stories but also because of all the valuable life lessons their children learn while reading.

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Happy reading this Halloween! Please stop by again soon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in award-winning series, Books for Halloween, Books for MG/PT/YA, MG/PT books, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Are you looking for something spooky to read this Halloween Season?

Posted on October 14, 2026 by jjspina

JEMSBOOKS has all kinds of books for you and your family to read this Halloween season. If you are looking for a spooky, haunted, shocking book, check out these choices for you.

In this post I will talk about a book for you adults and other posts will center around books for your children for this Halloween season.

Tales of the Well is a short story collection that is haunting and gripping. These four tales will hold your interest and keep you from putting the book down until you read them all.

Book cover of 'Tales of the Well', a short story collection by J.E. Spina, featuring an image of a house in a field, with pumpkins in the foreground and a greenhouse in the background.

Here are what others are saying about this collection:

A graphic featuring the cover of the short story collection 'Tales of the Well' by J.E. Spina, with a suspenseful review quote and a blurred background of a house.
Cover of the book 'Tales of the Well' by J.E. Spina featuring a house and a well, accompanied by a review description.
Cover of the book 'Tales of the Well' by J.E. Spina with a review quote about the engaging stories.
A book titled 'Tales of the Well: A Short Story Collection' by J.E. Spina sits in front of a spooky Halloween scene featuring a lit ceramic jack-o'-lantern and decorative pumpkins.
A digital tablet displaying the cover of the book 'Tales of the Well: A Short Story Collection' by J.E. Spina, positioned near a carved pumpkin and autumn leaves.
A book cover titled 'Tales of the Well' with a subtitle 'A Short Story Collection' by J.E. Spina, featuring a rural house in the background and a carved pumpkin with a spooky face in the foreground.
A book titled 'Tales of the Well' by J.E. Spina sits on a wooden surface, surrounded by Halloween decorations, including two carved pumpkins with glowing faces and a lit candle.
A spooky scene featuring carved pumpkins with faces, set against an orange and black background. In the foreground, there's a book cover displaying the title 'An Angel Among Us' by J. E. Spina, with a cloudy blue sky behind the text.
A book titled 'An Angel Among Us' by J. E. Spina, featuring a blue sky cover, displayed next to a carved pumpkin with smoke effects.
A book cover titled 'An Angel Among Us' by J. E. Spina, accompanied by a carved pumpkin with a mischievous grin, set against a dark background.
A book cover titled 'An Angel Among Us' by J. E. Spina featuring a blue sky background, accompanied by a carved Halloween pumpkin with a sinister expression.

Check out both of these books for some intriguing stories with a twist. There is a story in An Angel Among Us, The Well, that inspired me to write another story which continues in The Tales of the Well.

There are 15 stories in An Angel Among Us in multi-genres each with a surprise ending. Tales of the Well has four stories about a mysterious well that is gripping and terrifying. Once you begin to read these books, you will not be able to put them down. Do you dare begin reading? Hold on tight for a ride that will be something you haven’t experienced before!

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in An Angel Among Us, Halloween reading, Tales of the Well: A Short Story Collection, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

A TV Interview with Linda Maria Frank!

Posted on October 13, 2026 by jjspina

Recently I was interviewed by a fellow author, Linda Maria Frank, on her TVL station. Here is the link to see my interview.

https://1drv.ms/v/c/c11a7a29334f97ac/IQAxH-EO2DyTT73C4dJvGmeRAY0NEF7saK-zedLhM703YgY

It was such a fun interview with this lovely lady that I didn’t want to see it end. Thank you, Linda, for the opportunity to share a little about myself and my books. I shared information about my epic fantasy series, Gateskin Chronicles.

Book banner for 'The Powers of King Gateskin' by Janice Spina featuring a fantasy-themed cover, with descriptions of the Gateskin Chronicles series, reading age recommendations, and available formats.
Promo by BMGN

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and listening to my interview. Please come back again sooon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in author interview, Interview, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Unputdownable Short Story Collections from JEMSBOOKS!

Posted on October 6, 2026 by jjspina

I have written three short story collections at this time – An Angel Among Us, Wishes, Tales of the Well.

An Angel Among Us was published in 2017, Wishes in 2025, and Tales of the Well in 2026.

JEMSBOOKS NOVELS FOR 18+ are available on Amazon as paperbacks, Audiobooks, and ebooks (Kindle) and Barnes & Noble as paperbacks.

Three digital eBook covers displayed on tablet devices, featuring the titles: 'An Angel Among Us', 'WISHES', and 'Tales of the Well', all by J.E. Spina.
PROMO BY ALLAUTHOR.COM

I’ve enjoyed writing these collections so much that I am seriously thinking about creating another one or two in the near future after I complete the last book in Gateskin Chronicles. This epic fantasy is so all encompassing that I can’t veer away from it until its completion. It is quite demanding of my attention, and the characters are constantly urging me to finish. I have given attention to this last installment as many days as I can fit into my schedule. I usually complete one to two chapters every week.

Creating short stories is energizing and quick to complete and then I am off to the next project. I like that feeling. Right now, I need to complete one task before I can get back to that ‘lovin’ feeling.’

If you haven’t read any of these books, please go to Amazon or Barnes & Noble and grab your copies today for some enjoyable and surprising stories that end with a twist that will grab you and hold on tight. They are quick to read and take along with you when you don’t have time to begin a long novel.

FIVE STAR REVIEW FROM READERS’ FAVORITE BOOK AWARDS
 

A collection of short stories that covers several genres including romance, grief/loss, mystery, suspense, sci-fi, fantasy and paranormal. This book is dedicated to a courageous friend who passed in 2017. The first story is specially created for her and is the inspiration for the title of this book.

MOM’S CHOICE AWARDS SILVER MEDAL WINNER!
 
This is an eclectic short story collection of six stories.<br><br>Sometimes the things we wish for in life are not always what they seem. We have good times and bad but try to make the best of it all. There are occasions when we make wishes without thinking.
 
Like the saying goes, ‘Be careful what you wish for.’ While other times, things work out for the better, much to our surprise. This collection will make you think about the next time you make a wish.

These are four tales of the well that is situated on the land of a farmhouse that was inhabited by different families at different times. The realtors who sold the house to these families warned them that they were known to be haunted.

Each family experienced some strange happenings while living here. Some of the inhabitants are not around now to speak of anything that transpired. Some things are unexplainable.

Would you dare live here? What makes this well so unusual? Delve into these tales and find out.

Here are some reviews:

Cover of the short story collection 'An Angel Among Us' by J. E. Spina, featuring a blue sky background and a review highlighting the varied stories.
Book cover for 'An Angel Among Us' by J. E. Spina featuring a blue sky background, with a text review highlighting its enchanting Christmas story, fantasy elements, romance, and hope.
Book cover of 'An Angel Among Us' by J. E. Spina, featuring a blue sky background and text describing it as a collection of spirit-lifting short stories, with a review excerpt.
A review of the book 'Wishes: A Short Story Collection' by J.E. Spina, featuring a cover image and a quote praising the story 'One More Chance' for its brevity, suitable for enjoying in one sitting.
Book cover of 'Wishes: A Short Story Collection' by J.E. Spina, featuring a small structure in a scenic background. The cover includes a review quote stating, 'Thought provoking and clever with unique twists!'
Wishes AA 6
Book cover of 'Wishes: A Short Story Collection' featuring a simple design with an image of a well and a scenic background, alongside a review quote highlighting its heartwarming content.
Wishes AA 2
Cover of 'Tales of the Well' by J.E. Spina featuring a white house and a review quote about the short story collection.
Book cover for 'Tales of the Well' showcasing a suspenseful short story collection by J.E. Spina, with a blurred background of a house and text featuring a review.
Cover of 'Tales of the Well' by J.E. Spina featuring a house in the background, accompanied by a review highlighting the engaging storytelling.

I have an audible format for An Angel Among Us, but now for the other two books since they are shorter. All books are in paperback and eBook formats.

I hope you will read these books soon and write a review to let me know what your views were about them. I love receiving reviews and appreciate the time and effort it took for readers to write them. I am an avid reviewer of not only books but also many other things on Amazon. I am one of the top reviewers!

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where something is always BREWING at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in An Angel Among Us, Short story collection, Tales of the Well: A Short Story Collection, Who Loves Short Stories?, Wishes: A Short Story Collection | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Fall color is all around us!

Posted on October 5, 2026 by jjspina

It’s always exciting to see the trees shed their greenery and put on their autumn colors of red, yellow and orange. It is breathtaking!

On one of our trips around town I snapped some photos of all the color that is sprouting up around us.

A vibrant red tree surrounded by green trees, with a house in the foreground under a cloudy sky.
Vibrant autumn foliage featuring trees with red, orange, and green leaves under a blue sky.
A close-up view of autumn leaves with vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues, set against a blurred background of green trees.
A vibrant autumn scene featuring trees with red, orange, and green leaves under a partly cloudy sky.
A vibrant display of autumn foliage featuring trees with red, orange, and green leaves under a cloudy sky.
A vibrant display of autumn foliage featuring trees with bright red, orange, and yellow leaves amidst a lush green background.
Vibrant autumn foliage with red and orange leaves against a backdrop of green trees
Colorful autumn trees displaying vibrant red and orange foliage are visible behind a wooden utility pole and power lines under a cloudy sky.
A roadside pumpkin patch featuring various pumpkins and gourds, set against a backdrop of trees with autumn foliage.
Mack's Apples sign in front of a field filled with various pumpkins and trees, taken from the roadside.
A roadside market with a wooden structure displaying colorful pumpkins and flowers, alongside a vintage white truck partially hidden behind corn stalks.
A farm market outside called 'Mack's Apples' with a variety of pumpkins and gourds displayed on the ground and wooden crates, surrounded by trees showing autumn colors.

The last few photos are of Mack’s Apples with all their colorful pumpkins that add to this lovely kaleidoscope of color.

We are so blessed to live in New England where there is so much beauty in the changing of seasons. God gives us all this beauty in the fall and prepares us for what will come next as the weather slowly changes as it grows colder. We stay resilient through winter for we know that spring is coming and the weather will get better and everything will be green again.

I hope you enjoyed my photos and that wherever you live that you are having nice weather.

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in autumn, fall beauty, fall foliage, New England autumn | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

Books Read and Reviewed in September 2026!

Posted on October 4, 2026 by jjspina

Here it is already the end of another month. Where does the time go? I have been busy as usual reading some wonderful books for the month of September of 2026. Here are the 5 books I read and reviewed for September. I might have read even more if I didn’t have a few WIP. But I always seemed to have a WIP! That fact never stops me! I hope you enjoy reading these reviews.

I love sharing my eclectic reads in this Jemsbooks Segment, Books Read in the Month. I hope you will get a chance to look over these books soon. Thank you for your kind support of my work and that of my fellow authors.

Word cloud featuring the words 'Reading', 'Books', 'Authors', 'Blog', and 'Reviewing' in various fonts and colors.

If you are an avid reader, as I am, please review the books you love on Amazon or wherever you purchased them for others to enjoy your reviews. Reviews are one way for readers to know about an exceptional book. We indie authors love to receive reviews and appreciate the efforts of readers to do them. Once again, I thank you for your kind support of me and my books and for supporting my fellow authors too.

When I wrote these reviews I rated them on Amazon, Goodreads and sometimes Barnes & Noble. I did not include the ratings here though. It is best to share my thoughts with you about how I felt about the book without the rating. Ratings can be deceiving at times.

We all feel differently about books. Sometimes we love them, sometimes we like them and still other times we may dislike a book. Some other books are so memorable they take your breath away! While still others are sweet, sensitive, and enjoyable reads that we soon will forget. But all these books I have reviewed were lovely reads as you can see from my reviews. I hope you enjoy my reviews and that they will help you to decide what will be your next read.

WHAT THE RIVER TOOK: FAITH, FLOODWATERS, AND THE RISE OF TVA – Kindle edition by Linkous, Barbara Arnold. Religion & Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

An enjoyable historical tale with heartfelt emotion!

Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2026

Format: Kindle

What the River Took is a moving story about a backwoods town in Tennessee that is still living in the past holding onto their traditions, emotional and ancestral connections. When the government enters and wants to put in a dam and relocate the families from their homes, things begin to rev up causing angers to be raised.

This was a beautiful written story with plenty of family situations and heartfelt emotion. A moving and unforgettable story of resilience throughout struggles and changes iIn one’s life. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and did not want it to end. I highly recommend this!

Amazon.com: If You Tell a Lie: A Thriller eBook : Berry, Lucinda: Kindle Store

If You Tell a Lie is a thriller that threatened my sleep each night until I finished the book. Four teens make a terrible mistake by listening to one of them, making all four suffer the consequences much later in life when this mistake comes back to haunt them in surprising ways.

The author created a tense and unforgettable story line that was surprising and shocking. It was frightening to think that something like this could possibly happen when others do not use common sense and look closely at their friends and not be so gullible. A frightening tale!

Amazon.com: The Sky Beneath Her: A Novel eBook : Taylor, Mary Ellen: Kindle Store

The Sky Beneath Her is a story told in dual timelines about the sinking of a ship back in the 1940’s and the present time where a woman is trying to discover why her mother died in a dive to this sunken ship. Is there a correlation between the two?

The mystery continues throughout the story as the woman who lost her mother tries to overcome her fear of the ocean and refuses to dive again. Can a man who comes into her life help her find her way back to her love of the sea?

An intriguing story.

The Tomorrow Tree is a story about family relationships and friendships amongst three childhood friends. These three childhood friends have the same sitters since they were just babies. They become close knit like a family even though they are not related. They learn that sometimes those who are not family are just as important as family.

A sweet story about family and how children need support if not from their own family but from others who give them love and support unconditionally that they need. It is also a sad story about how parents can be neglectful toward their children.

A memorable story that touched the heartstrings of this reader.

The Wild Card is an intriguing tale of a woman, Carla Wilson, who was lost in an addiction that has encompassed her life. When a fluke happens with her gambling, she ends up in a small Texas town of tumbleweeds to discover life again.

The author has created some strong but flawed characters who each have their own demons to fight. They work together to find peace and friendship together. Will Carla be able to fight her addiction and find new meaning to her life in this tumbleweed town? Is there a chance for her to find love and peace?

A lovely story of how an addiction can overpower one’s life and the power of friendship.

Thank you so much for stopping by this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where something is always happening at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Books read and reviewed, Monthly book reviews, Monthly Reads, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Award-winning children’s books for PS-Grade 3!

Posted on October 3, 2026 by jjspina

If you are looking for some entertaining children’s books that have won many book awards, look no further because you will find 23 books that you children will love and want to read often at JEMSBOOKS!

A colorful cartoon train labeled 'JEMSBOOKS EXPRESS' with a plume of smoke and the phrase 'Reading Gives You Wings To Fly!' The train features a window with a smiling person's face inside.

Hop on JEMSBOOKS EXPRESS to find books for your children that will delight, entertain, and keep them engaged and happy as they read my award-winning books. These books have colorful illustrations created by my husband, John, verses in rhyme with important life lessons, and family values that parents will appreciate.

A promotional banner featuring the book covers of 'Jems Books' by author Janice (J.E.) Spina, showcasing children's literature including titles like 'Broose The Moose On The Loose' and 'Lucy The Talented Toy Terrier'. The banner also includes endorsements and highlights reading as a key theme.
A promotional banner for the children's book 'The First Star,' featuring highlights about the author Janice Spina, the book's accolades, and its availability on Amazon in both print and e-book formats. Includes the logo for Jems Books and a 5-star endorsement.
A banner showcasing the book series 'Drystan the Dragon and Friends' by Janice (J.E.) Spina, featuring colorful book covers with dragon and animal characters, along with text promoting the series and its availability on Amazon as print and e-book.
Promotional banner for award-winning author Janice Spina featuring her children's book series 'Make Believe'. The banner highlights four book covers, reading age recommendations (ages 5-8), availability on Amazon in print and ebook formats, and a five-star endorsement from Book Marketing Global Network.
A colorful promotional banner for the book 'Family and Friends: Tales for Children' by Janice Spina, featuring illustrations of animals and children, with details about the book, its endorsement, and availability on Amazon.

Jemsbooks Children’s books are available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Please consider giving books to all the children on your list for all occasions. There is nothing better than to see a child’s eyes light up when you give him/her a book – even more so when you read the book to them. You are giving them so much more than you could ever imagine, e.g., you spark their imagination, heighten their creativity, lift their spirits, increase their vocabulary, open up a whole new world to them, enhance their health and wellbeing and encourage them to love reading. The gift of a book is worth more than gold to our children, grandchildren. Keep reading and gifting books to children. Let’s bring up a generation of readers and thinkers. Thank you for your support!

Reading is important not only to keep your children’s reading levels up all year long but also it can increase their vocabulary, spark their creativity, enhance their health and wellbeing, and encourage them to become lovers of books. Let’s bring up a generation of readers and thinkers who will become successful and confident adults one day.

Here are the life lessons your children will learn from my children’s books:

Louey the Lazy Elephant – Louey teaches children the importance of not being lazy and always listening to your mother.

Ricky the Rambunctious Raccoon – Ricky teaches children to always listen to their mother.

Jerry the Crabby Crayfish – Jerry teaches children that it is okay to be different, be the best you can be and be happy with who you are.

Lamby the Lonely Lamb – Lamby teaches children to accept differences and to be kind to others.

Jesse the Precocious Polar Bear – Jesse teaches children that friends are important, and mothers know best.

Broose the Moose on the Loose – Broose teaches children to be kind and accepting of others who are different than you are.

Sebastian Meets Marvin the Monkey – Sebastian teaches children how important it is to be kind to animals, that animals have feelings too like humans and deserve our respect.

Colby the Courageous Cat – Colby teaches children to love one another and take care of their siblings.

Jeffrey the Jittery Giraffe – Jeffrey teaches children to be brave and help others in need.

Clarence Henry the Hermit Crab – Clarence Henry teaches children to work hard and do the best you can do and be happy with who you are.

Lucy the Talented Toy Terrier – Lucy teaches children to be kind to pets, how important a pet can be and how much this pet loves us unconditionally.

The First Star – teaches children that love of family is more important than all the riches in the world.

Drystan the Dragon Series Book 1: Drystan and Durward Save the Day – Drystan demonstrates to children that being kind and helping others is important and the right thing to do.

Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series, Book 2: Damara Helps Drystan Find His Roar – Drystan demonstrates the importance of friendship, being kind to others and helping others in need.

Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series, Book 3 – Delbert Finds Himself – Drystan teaches Delbert, a shy dragon, the importance of loving yourself as you are and that all colors are beautiful!

Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series, Book 4: Delfina Solves a Problem – Delfina helps Drago love himself and teaches him to be kind to others.

Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series, Book 5: Drago Does a Good Deed – Drago finds a rabbit in need of his help. He learns that it is better to be kind to others.

Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series, Book 6: Dragana Helps a Fairy – Dragana helps a fairy who is injured and in need. She doesn’t hesitate to help in any way she can and goes above and beyond to help this fairy. Being kind and helping others is what Dragana learns.

Make Believe: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 1: These six stories promote good behavior, encourage children to be kind to others, friends are important, differences should be accepted, and we are all unique and special.

Make Believe is Fun: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 2: These six stories help children to realize the importance of friendship, family, helping others in need and that it’s okay to be different.

Make Believe Again: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 3: These six stories promote good behavior in children as they learn valuable life lessons to be kind to others in need, family and friends are important and it’s okay to be different.

Make Believe Once Again: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 4: These six stories promote good behavior in children as they learn to be kind to others, it’s okay to be different, family matters more than riches or being famous, friends are important and be the best you can be.

Family and Friends: Tales for Children: These six stories teach children the importance of family and friends, that they matter, bullying should never be tolerated or accepted, help others in need, be the best you can be and never give up.

My goal in writing for children is to encourage them to read daily to enhance their life through good health and increase their creativity. Please read to your children daily even after they can read by themselves. This is a wonderful time to bond, cuddle, and get closer to your children. They will love and remember fondly the times you spent with them. Please keep reading and I will keep writing! Happy Reading Everyone!

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back again soon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in award-winning children’s books, Children’s Books, Children’s books for PS-Grade 3, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

How do you stay positive?

Posted on October 2, 2026 by jjspina

I try each to think of something that I am thankful for each day. There are so many things that come to mind.

A colorful word cloud featuring terms related to positivity, hobbies, friends, family, and thoughts, arranged in a spiral pattern.
Positive/ Negative Word Art

Here is what my list looks like:

  1. God’s blessings daily
  2. I am loved by my wonderful husband and family.
  3. Good health for me and my family
  4. I can still do most of the things that I enjoy doing – writing, exercising and just moving
  5. I feel blessed to wake up each morning and live another day.
  6. Try to smile every day at others to cheer them, it cheers me too!
  7. Compliment at least one person a day to awaken their positivity and bring a smile to them. It lightens my heart too.
  8. Find something that you love to do and do it every chance you get.
  9. Think of others before yourself.
  10. Be thankful for God’s love and blessings!

What are you thankful for and how do you stay positive?

A cheerful yellow smiley face with green eyes, a wide smile, and a playful tongue sticking out.
Compliments of FREE CLIPART LIBRARY

I received a positive message from a fortune cookie that I have kept and think about often. Here it is:

Stay positive, even when faced with challenges, they are steppingstones to growth.

We all have challenges that we must deal with daily, but they shouldn’t deter our spirit from continuing on and facing them with God’s help. He is always there for us.

KEEP SMILING! THINK POSITIVE, LIVE POSITIVE, STAY POSITIVE!

A brown horse with its mouth open wide, showcasing its teeth while standing near a barn in a rural setting.
SMILING HORSE OIP ONLINE

Here are more positive quotes from others online:

Inspiring Positive Quotes to Lift Your Spirit

Here’s a curated selection of uplifting quotes from trusted sources to brighten your day, share with others, or use as daily affirmations Wisdom QuotesWisdom Quotes+3.

Short & Powerful

  • “Positive anything is better than negative nothing.” — Elbert Hubbard Keep Inspiring MeKeep Inspiring Me
  • “One small positive thought can change your whole day.” — Zig Ziglar Wisdom QuotesWisdom Quotes+1
  • “Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” — Maya Angelou Real SimpleReal Simple+2
  • “Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson Wisdom QuotesWisdom Quotes+1

Motivational & Resilient

  • “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible.’” — Audrey Hepburn Real SimpleReal Simple+1
  • “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” — Theodore Roosevelt Keep Inspiring MeKeep Inspiring Me
  • “You can, you should, and if you’re brave enough to start, you will.” — Stephen King Wisdom QuotesWisdom Quotes+1
  • “A dead end is just a good place to turn around.” — Naomi Judd Real SimpleReal Simple+1

Kindness & Optimism

  • “If you see someone without a smile, give ’em yours!” — Dolly Parton Real SimpleReal Simple
  • “Happiness is not by chance but by choice.” — Jim Rohn Southern LivingSouthern Living
  • “Be the light in the dark, be the calm in the storm, and be at peace while at war.” — Mike Dolan Wisdom QuotesWisdom Quotes
  • “Do good and good will come to you.” — Unknown Keep Inspiring MeKeep Inspiring Me

For Daily Inspiration

  • “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” — Eleanor Roosevelt Wisdom QuotesWisdom Quotes
  • “The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” — Kobe Bryant Southern LivingSouthern Living
  • “Accentuate the positive, eliminate the negative, latch onto the affirmative.” — Bing Crosby Keep Inspiring MeKeep Inspiring Me

Tip: Keep a favorite quote in your phone’s notes, on your desk, or as a wallpaper to remind you of your positive mindset throughout the day Wisdom QuotesWisdom Quotes+1.

These quotes draw from leaders, artists, and everyday wisdom, offering a mix of resilience, kindness, and optimism to help you stay inspired.

I hope these quotes will inspire you and cheer you up.

Thank you for stopping by today to read this post and for your continued support. Keep smiling and the world will smile with you (hopefully). Please come back again soon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in stay positive, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Unputdownable thriller/mystery/suspense/serial crime – Hunting Mariah and Mariah’s Revenge!

Posted on October 1, 2026 by jjspina

Are you in the mood to be gripped by an unputdownable thriller/mystery/suspense/serial crime? If you haven’t read Hunting Mariah and Mariah’s Revenge my two-book series that will have you turning pages late into the night. You will be hooked from the first page and will not be able to put it aside to do your housework, laundry or cooking.

MAINCREST MEDIA AWARD – CRIME FICTION!
AUTHORSDB FIRST LINES CONTEST – FINALIST!

An insane killer, obsessed with blood and death, seeks revenge with those he perceives wronged him. He is now on the loose. His next victim may be Mariah.

Mariah has lost her memory. Will she remember what has transpired in her past? Can Mariah escape this deadly killer’s grasp. Will she finally be safe? Will the killer be apprehended?

AUTHORSDB FIRST LINES CONTEST – FINALIST!

This book begins where the first book, Hunting Mariah, left off. This suspense/thriller/crime novel will keep you turning pages as the tension grows. There will be twists and turns and some surprises. Many of the same characters will be in play to give support and encouragement to Mariah along the way.
A new man comes into Mariah’s life that reminds her of someone she wants to forget. He threatens to bring back the horrors that she and her family once endured. While the one she wants to forget suffers from a horrendous attack that puts his life in jeopardy.
Mariah must draw on her strength and resilience to survive danger at every turn. How much more can Mariah endure? How far will Mariah go to protect her family?

Here are the book trailers of these books:

Here is what readers are saying about this series:

Book cover of 'Hunting Mariah' by J.E. Spina featuring a woman and an Amazon review praising the suspense and epilogue for horror fans.
Hunting Mariah
Book cover of 'Hunting Mariah' by J.E. Spina featuring a female character, with an Amazon review highlighting its suspenseful plot.
A promotional image for the book 'Hunting Mariah' by J.E. Spina, featuring a review quote highlighting its raw and brutal narrative, alongside a visual of the book cover.
Hunting Mariah
Book cover of 'Mariah's Revenge' by J.E. Spina, featuring a female character in winter attire and a snowy background, accompanied by a review highlighting its suspenseful nature.
Mariah’s Revenge
Book cover of 'Mariah's Revenge' by J.E. Spina featuring a girl in a fur-lined hood, with a background of snowy scenery and an overlay of a positive Amazon review.
Book cover of 'Mariah's Revenge' by J.E. Spina featuring a female protagonist with a fur-lined hood and a backdrop suggesting a dramatic scene, accompanied by an Amazon review highlighting the book's suspenseful and action-driven drama.

The first book, Hunting Mariah, was created in 2014 and was not supposed to be a series until I received a request from a reader to know more about what happened to Mariah. In 2018, I published the sequel, Mariah’s Revenge.

It was difficult getting into the mind of the serial killer once again since he invaded my sleep during the first book until I completed it. Now he was there once again to torment me until I told his story. It was a relief to finally be through with him at the completion of the sequel. I hope readers are pleased with the complete series now. I do not ever plan on adding a third book.

Once I complete a series I like to move onto another genre and age group to mix things up a bit and spark my creativity with a challenge.

I hope if you haven’t read this series yet that you would pick it up soon and get into the mind of the serial killer. I hope he won’t bother you as much as he did me!

Thank you so much for stopping by to read this post and for your continued support. Please come back soon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in crime/mystery/thriller, Hunting Mariah, Mariah's Revenge, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband!

Posted on September 30, 2026 by jjspina

My husband, John, is 84 today! He is such a wonderful husband, so supportive and thoughtful of my every need. He is the sole support of my writing and helps me by illustrating and creating my book covers. I couldn’t complete each book without his support. I thank God every day for bringing him into my life.

A smiling older man holding a cocktail with a slice of lemon at a restaurant, seated at a table with silverware and a napkin.
John at Barnacle Billy’s in Ogunquit Maine with a rum punch!

He never asks for anything for his birthday, but I felt I had to do something! Please wish him a happy birthday and I will show him all your comments. He isn’t online anywhere.

John has been having back issues and is in pain often, but he doesn’t complain too much, just enough! Haha! He is currently having PT but that doesn’t seem to be helping much. We hope to see a surgeon soon after he has an MRI. He has already had a few cortisone injections and procedures without much relief. Please say a few prayers for him. We will be going on a trip in the fall and hope he can walk around without too much difficult, God willing.

We are going out to a lunch/dinner today at one of his favorite places, Super Wok, where he loves to have their Mai Tais. He said they are the best! I have had one on occasion but am out of it for the rest of the day! That is how strong they are. I am not used to drinking much – only have a glass of wine once or twice a week or socially. Sigh!

Here are a few pictures of John. I didn’t realize how often he takes pics of just me or we do selfies together. I have to change that and take more of him.

A smiling older man sitting at a table, holding a glass of beer, in a well-lit outdoor setting at night.
In Aruba
A smiling older man in a green polo shirt holding a glass with ice, standing in a kitchen with white cabinets and a window with purple curtains.
At home
An older man sitting at a dining table, smiling and holding up a pink drink in a flute glass, with a festive table setting in front of him.
At home New Years Eve
An elderly man in a green sweater happily prepares to eat a plate of spaghetti with marinara sauce at a restaurant named 'Piccola,' featuring a vibrant striped wall in the background.
At Piccola Italia in Manchester, NH
A smiling woman and man taking a selfie together in a warm, rustic setting with lanterns and wooden decor.
Aruba 2024

I feel blessed to have this special man in my life and I thank God every day. He has made me so happy. I treasure every day that we have together for we don’t know how many we have left! Sigh!

Thank you for stopping by to read this post and for your kind support. Please send along your birthday greetings to me here for John. He will get a kick out of them! Please come back again soon where something is always brewing at JEMSBOOKS!

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Blessings & Hugs! Stay Safe, Stay Well and God Bless!

READING GIVES YOU WINGS TO FLY! SOAR WITH JEMSBOOKS ALL YEAR THROUGH! HAPPY READING!

Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina

Award-Winning Author

Jemsbooks for All Ages!

Jemsbooks.com

Jemsbooks.blog

Jjspina(at)comcast(dot)net

AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE (All books)

AMAZON.COM JE SPINA NOVELS PAGE

AMAZON.CO.UK

BARNES & NOBLE

Posted in Birthday celebration, Happy birthday, Writing, book reviews and publishing, poetry, children's books, YA and novels | Tagged , , , , , , | 12 Comments