Thanks to James Cudney for including me in this blog tour and providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher: Creativia
Release Date: Available Now
278 Pages
Synopsis: The wealthy Glass family lost its patriarch, Benjamin Glass, sooner than expected. Benjamin’s widow, Olivia, and her 5 sons each react to his death in their own way while preparing for the reading of his will. Olivia receives an unexpected confession from her late husband about one of their sons that could shatter the whole family.
Prior to revealing the secret to her children, Olivia must figure out which boy Ben refers to in the confession he left her in his will. While the family attorney searches for the mysterious Rowena Hector whom Ben says holds all the answers, Olivia asks her sons to each spend spend a week with her as she isn’t ready to let go of the past. When Olivia visits her sons, she quickly learns that each one has been keeping his own secret from her. Olivia never expected her remaining years would be so complex and life-altering, but she will not rest until her family is reunited after Ben’s untimely death.
We all need family. We all want to fit in. We’re all a mix of quirky personalities. Will Olivia be able to fix them or will the whole family implode? What will she do when she discovers the son behind Ben’s secret? Check out this ensemble cast where each family member’s perspective is center stage, discovering along the way who might feel the biggest impact from all the secrets. Welcome to being an honorary member of the Glass family.
I think I’ve said before that I’m always a little anxious reviewing another blogger’s book because I hate even the idea of having to give a poor review to someone I’ve gotten to know through the WordPress community. But when Jay, one of my favorite bloggers, announced that his book Watching Glass Shatter, had been picked up by a publisher, I was thrilled and unhesitatingly asked if I could be part of the blog tour. I purposely waited to read it until a few days before I was due to write this post. Last Thursday night I picked it up thinking I’d read for a couple of hours before bed. Four hours and half a Kleenex box later I had finished it and my first thought was: “THIS is a debut?”
Starting with the Glass family patriarch Ben, the story is then picked up by his widow Olivia and her four sons: Ethan, Caleb, Matt, Zachary, and Teddy. With such a large cast of characters and a relatively short length, the personalities of the Glass family very easily could have been under-developed and confusing, but instead they literally leapt off the page. I have to admit at the beginning I thoroughly disliked Olivia. She’s judgemental, interfering and self-involved, but as she spends time with each of her sons and discovers the secrets each of them hides, she realizes that her family isn’t as picture perfect as she thought and that she may have played a role in this. She’s a very complex character and while I still didn’t really like her at the end, I did appreciate her more as she evolved and became a little more kind and empathetic.
Ethan, Caleb and Olivia’s underappreciated yet loyal sister Diane, are without a doubt my favorite characters out of everyone, but interestingly, although I had some issues with Zachary, Teddy and Matt, I wound up having a lot of sympathy for them as well. They’re richly drawn and realistically written, and by the end of the book they’ve all recognized their shortcomings and have taken the first steps to correct them.
Equal to the character development is the multi-layered plot. Beginning with the secret that Ben kept from Olivia, this theme is continued throughout the book. While each son’s story is unique, the parts of themselves that they’re hiding effect the rest of the family. At the end, while some are further along the road to self-enlightenment and recovery than others, the family unit as a whole is so much closer. While I already had guessed how the actual mystery stemming from Ben’s confession was going be concluded, when the revelation came near the end of the book I was so involved with this flawed family, I didn’t mind the lack of surprise. Indeed, it lent even more poignancy to this already compelling tale.
Watching Glass Shatter is a family drama filled with love, humor and tragedy. It elicited strong emotions in me and I found myself laughing and crying multiple times as I was reading. And, that to me is the true strength of this novel. There is so much emotional havoc, yet I never once felt it was over the top. Instead, all the drama drew me that much closer to the family, even with characters I didn’t care for in the beginning. I absolutely loved Jay’s debut from start to finish and I truly can’t recommend it highly enough. Jay writes with the talent of a seasoned author, so I’m excited to see what he comes out with next. And, as I’m not ready to say goodbye to the Glass family, I’m thrilled that he’s planning to revisit them in the near future!
There’s a Goodreads Giveaway until November 30th! Check it out at: https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/263554-watching-glass-shatter
Watching Glass Shatter is also available to purchase on Amazon. http://mybook.to/WGS
About the Author:
James is my given name; most call me Jay. I grew up on Long Island and currently live in New York City, but I’ve traveled all across the US (and various part of the world). After college I spent 15 years working in technology and business operations in the sports, entertainment and media industries. Although I enjoyed my job, I left in 2016 to focus on my passion: telling stories and connecting people through words. My debut novel is “Watching Glass Shatter”, a contemporary family drama with elements of mystery, suspense, humor and romance. To see samples or receive news from my current and upcoming books please subscribe with your email address at my website: https://jamesjcudney.com
What do I do outside of writing: I’m an avid genealogist (discovered 2K family members going back about 250 years) and cook (I find it so hard to follow a recipe). I love to read; between Goodreads and my blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com I have over 500 book reviews which will give you a full flavor for my voice and style. On my blog I started the 365 day challenge, where I post a word each day that has some meaning to me, then converse with everyone about life. There is humor, tears, love, friendship, advice and bloopers. Lots of bloopers where I make fun of myself all the time. Even my dog has a weekly segment called “Ryder’s Rants” where he complains about me. All these things make up who I am; none of them very fancy or magnanimous, but they are real and show how I live every day.
A bit of humor: Everything as something else when you live in NYC. For me, it’s the dining room, my favorite space in the apartment, where more than my cooking is on display! As I look out the windows onto the 12th floor terrace, various parts of nature (trees, bushes, flowers, bogs & animals) inspire me to write. Ryder, my 10-year-old shiba inu, usually lays on my feet, growling when I shift position too many times or when I forget to share my food! And although he’s only 20 pounds, he’s quite strong and pushy. But how else do you pen the best story possible without these things by your side?
You can also visit Jay at:
Goodreads ~ https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17128817.James_J_Cudney
Twitter ~ https://mobile.twitter.com/jamescudney4
Instagram ~ https://www.instagram.com/jamescudney4/
There’s also a wonderful interview with Jay on Artist First ~
http://www.artistfirst2.com/Authors-First_2017-11-14_James_Cudney.mp3
And finally, please check out some of these other fantastic bloggers who have participated in this blog tour. You’ll find more great reviews, interesting Q&As with Jay and even an awesome poll on who should play the characters if this gets optioned for film (which it totally should!)
raistlin0903 said:
Great review! I can definitely understand you being anxtious for reviewing another blogger’s book. What if you don’t like it, and have to write a review stating this. Luckily though, this one wasn’t like that. It sounds like an awesome read, and from what I can tell from your review, it’a quite amazing that this is a debut novel😀 Glad you enjoyed the read 😊
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thanks Michel! This will definitely be on my top ten list of favorite books of 2017.😊
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Wow, thank you!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I mean it Jay. You should be so proud!🤗
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Dani☆Touch My Spine Book Reviews☆ said:
Wow Kim!!!!💖💛💙💚 Such an amazing review!!!📚🤗😗📚 I recieved a copy from Jay a few weeks ago and this just makes me that much more excited!!! Woot Woot!💃💃💃*happy dance*💃💃💃 I have heard such AMAZING things and with your 5 star stamp of approval just makes me that mire excited!!!💖💛💙💚 Thanks for sharing this awesome review Kim!!!🙌🙌🙌 You really have me so anxious to read this book!💖📚 You are the best, Book Sister!🤗😗😍
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thanks Dani! I can’t wait to hear what you think!😙
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Dani☆Touch My Spine Book Reviews☆ said:
You’re welcome Kim!😊 Cool Beans!😍
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
🤗😙
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thesarahdoughty said:
Oooh sounds great!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
It really is Sarah!😊
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beetleypete said:
James is a very engaged blogger, and a real asset to the blogging community. I am so pleased he found a publisher, and that his book has got such great reviews, including yours. I haven’t even read it, but I have no doubt it is worth your 5 stars, Kim.
Best wishes, Pete.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
That he is Pete. I think you’d like this one.😊
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fragglerocking said:
Sounds really good, what a fab review. Going to check out his blog too!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you Fraggle! I think you’ll enjoy the book and Jay’s blog.😊
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Kim,
I love your review and post. I know what you mean about other bloggers reading it; I worry people will feel any level of obligation to rate it higher than it is, but then I realize I’ve connected with people whose reviews I have read before and know they are always honest. I am so sorry you used up a half a box of tissues. Maybe I should package a physical book with a tissue box and mail it away as a marketing plan! 🙂
I am so happy you joined the blog tour team. You highlighted the exact tone of the book I wanted, especially with Olivia. She’s a force, sometimes one you absolutely hate, but everyone’s feelings definitely waffle over her. Some end up loving her, some just warm up a bit. That’s the part I love reading about — how everyone determines who they like and don’t like.
Thank you so much for this great review and all the links to other places. I appreciate you and all you’ve done. I am very grateful.
J
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I’m so glad you like the review Jay. I can honestly say it was an honor to be part of the blog tour.
Yes, Olivia drove me crazy at times and although I still didn’t love her at the end, she had changed for the better in some ways. But that’s what made her such a realistic character for me. It wouldn’t have been believable if she had turned into the perfect mother.
I’m so excited you’re going to be writing more about the Glass family!
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James J. Cudney IV said:
I truly did. I am grateful. And I totally know what you meant about Olivia. I can’t wait to write another Glass story. Father Figure should be done on Friday. I have 2 chapters to revise somewhat, but getting close.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
That’s fantastic news on both fronts Jay! When it’s ready, I’d be honored to be part of the blog tour for Father Figure. I’m really looking forward to reading it!🤗
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Thank you. I am hopeful it will be February/March. I need to get it to beta readers and editors in December, then the publisher by 12/31.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Sounds great!😊
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Pingback: Watching Glass Shatter: Blog Tour Day 16a – By Hook or By Book (Cadbury Pom) « This Is My Truth Now
Literary Dust said:
Great review! I need to check this one out!!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I think you’ll love this Candace!😊
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Literary Dust said:
😘😘❤️
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James J. Cudney IV said:
That would be great, thank you!
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Mischenko said:
Great review! I had a hard time with Olivia at first, but I thought she became a little better toward the end. So glad you enjoyed the book. This was so fun. 💜💕😁
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I Thanks again Mischenko! I can’t wait to see how they all continue to evolve in forthcoming books.😊🌈💖
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misifusa said:
Excellent review! Great book! I’m so happy for Jay!!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you! Jay really is talented!😊
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Patty said:
Great review! Excellent job👏
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank You!😊
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Raven @ Dreamy Addictions said:
Amazing review, Kim! I’m glad you loved this book! It isn’t my cup of tea but it sounds like an incredible read! 🙂
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thanks Raven! This isn’t a genre I usually read, by Jaynis an amazing writer!😊
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Lashaan (Bookidote) said:
Wonderful review, Kim. I would’ve had a lot of fear reviewing a fellow blogger’s book too, but so far I know you’ve been through a couple of them and have been thoroughly impressed! Glad to see this one was an immense success for you too! 😀 The characters and the story sound brilliant, and just the fact that it was a tear-jerker gives me hope for it!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thanks Lashaan! I’ve been blessed with knowing such talented bloggers/authors! I think the worst review I had to give wasb3 stars and I felt guilty for weeks!
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James J. Cudney IV said:
I hope you enjoy it if you choose to read it, thanks!
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Carrie said:
Great review Kim!!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thanks Carrie!🤗
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Didi Oviatt - Author said:
Kim, everything about this review is SPOT ON! Excellent book, and I’m STILL in shock that it’s a debut! 😉
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you so much Didi!🤗 You and Jay are both AMAZING writers and I’m so grateful to have met you even if it’s only through the blogosphere.😙
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Didi Oviatt - Author said:
You’re too kind 🙂 … I love that we’re blogger buddies! #bookbabe
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
#loadsofhugs🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
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Chauncey Rogers said:
Great review! So sad to see the blog tour ending for this book, but at least it’s ending on a wonderful note!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you! I have a feeling Jay has many more books to come.😊
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Chauncey Rogers said:
Well, Father Figure is well on its way
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I’m definitely looking forward to that!😊
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Chauncey Rogers said:
And a sequel to Watching Glass Shatter is coming along, too!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I’m not ready to say goodbye to them, so it’s a good thing!😊
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Dani☆Touch My Spine Book Reviews☆ said:
Reblogged this on Touch My Spine Book Reviews and commented:
Kim posted a fantastic review of fellow blogger Jay’s debut novel! Jay sent me a copy and this review makes me that much more excited to read this book!!!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you Dani!🤗😙
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Dani☆Touch My Spine Book Reviews☆ said:
You’re welcome!😗🤗😊
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Alyssa Marie said:
I’m really glad you loved it! I actually got it off of Amazon and am excited to read it! Great review!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thanks Alyssa! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.😊
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Thank you!
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Fanna said:
Loved this review! It’s almost heavenly when a debut book makes such a strong impact. Can’t wait to read this ❤
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you Fanna! 😊
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Thank you! I hope you enjoy it.
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Diana said:
Great review Kim. This sounds like the perfect read. I really like emotional reads and the character development in this one sounds great. I will check it out.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you Diana. I do think you’d like this one.😊
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Thank you so much, I hope you enjoy it.
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vinnieh said:
I love James as a blogger, he’s a valuable member of the society. And I found your review highly engaging. I hope to read his book.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Jay’s blog is one of my favorites and I can’t convey how brilliant his debut is Vinnie.😊
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vinnieh said:
I have to catch up with some of his posts, I’m behind.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
He’s been very busy!😊
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Thank you, Vinnie. I appreciate it!
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vinnieh said:
I am a big fan of yours.
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Ditto
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vinnieh said:
Thank you, James.
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E. Michael Helms, writer said:
Wonderful review, Kim. Jay cuts right to the heart and soul of his characters. 🙂
–Michael
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you so much Michael! It really is an impressive debut.😊
BTW, I’m almost finished with Deadly Spirits and I’ve really enjoyed it. I’m planning on posting a review next week.😊
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E. Michael Helms, writer said:
Reblogged this on e. michael helms and commented:
By Hook Or By Book’s Kim reviews WATCHING GLASS SHATTER
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Jameswolanyk said:
Great review. I love how orderly you are with your structuring of the information about the author, taglines, etc. Really neat!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you so much!😊
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James J. Cudney IV said:
She’s fantastic… always impresses me!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Aww, Jay! Thank you! 🤗
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theorangutanlibrarian said:
I totally, totally get what you mean about reviewing/reading other bloggers’ books. But I actually read this recently and really enjoyed it 😀 I agree- it was so impressive for a debut and very emotional! Great review!!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it too.😊
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Heena Rathore P. said:
Wow, sounds amazing!! Thanks for your rec for this one on Goodreads 😀
Id this tour still open? Do let me know please!
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James J. Cudney IV said:
Hi. The tour did end a few days ago, but you can see all the post, enter the giveaway and subscribe to the newsletter at https://jamesjcudney.com. It’s great to meet you, Heena.
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Heena Rathore P. said:
Thanks for the info 🙂
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James J. Cudney IV said:
you’re welcome
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Heena Rathore P. said:
And same here.
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Hi Heena. Jay just answered your question.😊
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Heena Rathore P. said:
Yeah, he did. 😀
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Pingback: Blog Tour: Watching Glass Shatter, by James J. Cudney ~ 5.0 Stars — By Hook Or By Book – coffeeandtrainspotting
Teagan R. Geneviene said:
Thanks for this mindful review, Kim. You’ve let me know the kind of things I’d like to know before getting a book. Hugs!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
I’m glad you liked it Teagan!😊
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mlbradford said:
Blimey Charley! Wait around for AGES and TWO Brad Comments come at once!
Another 5* novel – yes, how a really good writer can stir th emotions = this is something else I’ve been studying this past month 🙂
Thank u for another fantastic review, Kim
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
Thanks Brad! Jay is such a talented author! If you haven’t checked out his blog, you definitely should.😊
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mlbradford said:
Great!
Thanks for th recommendation, Kim!
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By Hook Or By Book ~ Book Reviews, News, & Other Stuff said:
My pleasure Brad!😙
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