New Books - NewInBooks

Interview with Donald Thompson, Author of Underestimated

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success?

My path to becoming a CEO was not direct or simple. It took hard work, determination, and grit that was refined by three generations of the Thompson family. My inspiration for Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success focused on the heroic efforts of those that came before me and laying out a path for those who might feel underestimated today or in the future.

This book is for anyone who has experienced that feeling of being underestimated. I hope it will serve as an inspiration and a guide for what you can do to overcome challenges and achieve greatness – regardless of your circumstances.

Tell us about The Diversity Movement. What is it? How did it come to be?

The Diversity Movement (TDM) began as a digital company in 2019. It quickly expanded into a full-service, product-driven firm that has assisted more than 100 clients in operationalizing diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) as a strategy for business growth. Our specialists combine education, coaching, technology, and analytics to support businesses in creating stronger and more equitable workplace cultures. TDM has already helped millions of people on their DEI journeys through its award-winning content, digital learning courses, client success services, and employee product platform.

What is one piece of business advice you think everyone should know?

I think it’s essential for everyone to understand that you are not entitled to success. Success is not given; it is earned. Some of us may have to work harder for that success due to factors beyond our control, but an unfair or disadvantaged circumstance is not an excuse to throw in the towel.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I’m looking forward to reading Don’t Ask the Blind Guy for Directions, the new memoir by my friend John Samuel, who is the CEO of Ablr. I’m also excited about Growing the Elephant: Increasing Earned Advantage for All by Chris Altizer and Gloria Johnson-Cusack. Both these books shine an important light on the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and across society more broadly.

What part of your book was your favorite to write?

An important aspect of Underestimated was honoring my family, not just my parents, but also my Granny and grandfather Big Daddy, in particular. They created a foundation for me – of love, care, excellence, and competitiveness – so I could go out into this world and win, in spite of the circumstances. I remember my grandfather telling me that I was destined for big things when I was around 8 years old. At the time, I didn’t understand what he meant. But there was this belief, from that young age, that I could win with the cards that I was dealt.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

No quirky writing habit or talismans for me. When I think about writing, I can’t help but look back on all the preparation I have done as a competitive learner. For example, I have been reading Harvard Business Review for more than two decades because I want to always push myself to learn from the best. My love of reading has definitely fueled my writing style and desire to write Underestimated.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

My philosophy is straightforward: don’t let others determine your value!

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

One of the defining lessons that I learned from my father was that there are no limits to what I could accomplish if I were willing to learn and put in the time for practice. When you live out your values and commitments on a daily basis, you are changing far more lives than any lecture ever could. The world may not be designed for you or be a fair playing field, but you are the defining factor in your success.

Donald Thompson is the author of the new book Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success

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Interview with Carrie Rubin, Author of Fatal Rounds

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Fatal Rounds?

With this book, the character came to me before the story. I wondered what it would be like to create a protagonist with schizoid personality disorder (a condition in which people avoid social interactions and have little desire to form close personal relationships) and put her in a conflict situation where she has to make questionable choices. As someone who doesn’t let societal norms confine her, my character’s choices lead her down some ethically challenged roads.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Fatal Rounds, what would they be?

I’ll have to pick House of Misery, written and sung by none other than my sister, Jo’Rinda Johnsen and used in the Fatal Round book trailer. Although the lyrics don’t perfectly match my main character, they do fit with her “fierce and independent” nature.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Thrillers are my favorite—medical, psychological, legal, Nordic—whatever it happens to be. It’s also my preferred genre to write. I don’t limit myself to that genre, though, and I’m a fan of literary fiction, historical fiction, and mysteries too.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

Cold, Cold Bones by Kathy Reichs; The Shadow Murders by Jussi Adler-Olsen; The Judges List by John Grisham; Miss Benson’s Beetle by Rachel Joyce; and many, many more I’m eager to read!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Maybe the last scene, but I can’t say why without giving away spoilers.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Not really, but I do enjoy having a cup of tea nearby!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

One of my favorite quotes is by Steve Jobs: “Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life.”

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Hopefully that they enjoyed it!

Carrie Rubin is the author of the new book Fatal Rounds

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Interview with Heather Grace Stewart, Author of Lucky

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Lucky?

The meet-cute between heroine Dylan and hero Mason was inspired by real events in my life. I was driving on the highway just outside of Ottawa, going home to Montreal, when a piglet "flew," or so it seemed, out of the back of a transport truck, narrowly missing my car! The poor thing looked lifeless as it rolled to the roadside. I swerved, almost had a collision, was horrified, certain the piglet was dead, and decided to chase after the truck, hoping to get him to stop and help the piglet. No luck, he actually sped up. Just awful. But the feisty little guy lived.

The real "Lucky" was rescued by a local vet and eventually taken in at an animal sanctuary. I stayed in touch and was inspired by his story of survival. The events shook me, and changed me so much I became a pescatarian a few days after the incident. (Now three years of eating no meat, only fish). The rural areas in the book are inspired by places I explored when growing up in rural Ontario and Quebec.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Lucky, what would they be?

Sugar and Daisies by Alt Bloom - I use it for my stories about Dylan and Mason on my Instagram all the time.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Biographies! I love learning about fascinating people.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I'm finishing Cassidy Reyne's Saving Dignity (The Sentinels 4) and The Last Family in England by Matt Haig.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

Anytime Dylan and Mason were bantering back and forth. Their meet cute, and when they first see the wild doe. The runaway horse scene was challenging - had to research horses lots!

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

More like is there anything I do that isn't quirky? I talk lines out loud. I pace the room. No music. Silent mode on my cell. I have to have my hot drink and snack to my right. If I'm really stuck, I'll take a long shower and sing!

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

It's from Dr. Wayne Dyer: Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

If it gave them joy and a state of calm for a while, I'd like that feeling to be remembered. Like getting a warm hug.

Heather Grace Stewart is the author of the new book Lucky

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Interview with Marty Essen, Author of Doctor Refurb

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Doctor Refurb?

Whether I write nonfiction or fiction, all my books reflect my values of protecting human rights and the environment—and I try to project those values with a wry sense of humor. But even when I’m writing fiction, I draw on facts.

Inspiration for “Doctor Refurb” began almost twenty years ago, when I explored a cave in Belize with an indigenous man. When we came across some old broken pottery, deep inside the cave, he explained to me that this was where his people hid to escape Christian missionaries and practice their own religious beliefs. Later, I did more research into abusive missionaries, molesting priests, and the torture and murders of thousands of indigenous children in Canada’s Christian residential schools.

With “Doctor Refurb,” I hope to give more exposure to such incidents and also tie it into the use of Christianity by the far-right to normalize the abuse of our environment. It all sounds depressing, I know, but “Doctor Refurb” is still a hilarious book, filled with madcap time-travel adventures.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Doctor Refurb, what would they be?

For Dr. Stefan Westin (Doctor Refurb): “Don’t Pray for Me,” by Within Temptation. For female protagonist, Tara Kramer, “Witches Burn,” by The Pretty Reckless.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Authors that write in my genre, “science-fiction political-comedy,” are rare, so I usually read outside my genre. I avoid books with excessive violence and instead gravitate toward books with quirky characters.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I just finished reading “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine,” by Gail Honeyman, which was awesome. I’m also a big fan of Fredrik Backman. My favorite of his is “Britt-Marie Was Here,” and I’m currently reading the final book in his “Beartown” series, “The Winners.”

Also last month, on a long road trip with my wife, I listened to the audiobook of Backman’s “A Man Called Ove.” It was the second time I’ve listened to that book. The narrator, actor J.K. Simmons, is the best! What I would do to have him narrate one of my audiobooks!

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

The opening scene, where Dr. Stefan Westin collapses into the front seat of his car, exhausted after a long day of treating COVID-19 patients. Rodney (an alien who will later don an avatar of Trevor Noah to occupy the brains of my two protagonists) whispers into his head, “If you ask us, they’ll be gum.” As the scene progresses, it becomes clear that Rodney is new at his job and is actually in the wrong head.

The entire first chapter becomes a parody of telemarketers and health-product TV commercials, as Rodney—a full-time planetary consultant, third class—has to continually put Stefan “on hold” to check with his supervisor.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I don’t plot out my books in advance. Instead, I come up with a story idea and an ending (which will invariably change later), crank up the music, and write. I can’t write without music playing, because it keeps me from getting distracted, and, if I’m lucky, within a chapter or two, my characters will take over my fingers and type for me. The only disadvantage of this method is that my characters are generally sloppy when they type, and I have to spend hundreds of hours after the first draft going back and correcting their errors.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Write to change the world.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

To answer that, I’m going to defer to a five-star review I just received from Indies Today. The writer of that review understood exactly what I’m trying to accomplish:

“Humor abounds, both obvious and subtle, resulting in a finely tuned fusion of political satire and science fiction that is sure to elicit intelligent, if not hysterical, conversation. A rousing platform to stimulate change, Doctor Refurb is an assertive novel that treads equally in fact, fiction and compulsive entertainment.”

Marty Essen is the author of the new book Doctor Refurb

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Interview with Marian McCarthy, Author of Murder and the Ghost Hunter

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Murder and the Ghost Hunter?

Barn owls have such haunting, human-like faces. I imagined an ancient legend about a creature that is half barn owl, half woman. The mythical Owl Woman haunts the small town of Vardo, Oklahoma, in the fall, when the veil between the spirit world and the physical world is permeable. That's the "ghost" in the title.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Murder and the Ghost Hunter, what would they be?

For psychic mortician Perrie Spock: "What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger." For Sheriff Reg Woolaroc: "Rocket Man."

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

I enjoy mysteries and thrillers. And I love writing mysteries with a paranormal twist!

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

“Prize for the Fire” by Rilla Askew and “The Awake Dreamer” by Samantha Fey.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I enjoyed writing about the barn owls. They fascinate me.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I light a candle while I write. I also play music that helps me focus.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Carpe Diem. Seize the day and enjoy it as much as you can!

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

Listen. People, spirits, ghosts, animals. They all have voices you need to hear.

Marian McCarthy is the author of the new book Murder and the Ghost Hunter

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Interview with William West, Author of Kissproof World

What's the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Kissproof World?

I have always been interested in human behavior and how behavior reflects a person’s early years when the brain is hard-wired by parents or other caregivers, and sometimes by tragic events. Just after graduating from college, I worked as a child protective social worker in an area of the Texas Gulf Coast near Houston. I was drawn to the setting and the experiences of the clients I served. I have always wanted to capture my observations and experiences in a novel.

The story came together for me when I read the poem When Like a Running Grave by Dylan Thomas. Kissproof is or was the name of a lipstick, and The Kissproof world is the last line of the poem which encapsulates the image of adolescent frustration and angst, but also one of gaiety. What I envisioned was a world where troubled teenagers use defense mechanisms to protect themselves from the harshness of their world.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Kissproof World, what would they be?

Teenage Dream by Katie Perry.

What's your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

Literary fiction is my favorite genre to read and write. Character development is what drives the plot.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I enjoy reading and re-reading my favorite authors: James Joyce, William Faulkner, Joan Didion, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, Ernest Hemingway, Kurt Vonnegut, Mary Oliver, Louise Glück, and other similar authors. When in the right mood, I go to my bookmark in Finnegan’s Wake, along side my “Skeleton Key” for unlocking the meaning.

Occasionally I check out current authors who interest me, such as George Saunders, Colson Whitehead, Jesmyn Ward, and Louise Erdrich. The list goes on.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

One setting in the book is a drawbridge in the fishing village of Kemah. The drawbridge, is a symbol for the personal fears the characters face. Alec Gogarty is obsessed with jumping the drawbridge on his motorcycle to conquer his fears and make a name for himself. I enjoyed writing the scene when Alec Gogarty is being chased by the police and tricks them to open the drawbridge just as he attempts a jump over the bridge.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I wouldn’t say it is quirky, but writing in the early morning with a cup of coffee and a nice view out the window is the best for stimulating creativity.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

A favorite of mine is, “What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?” Vincent van Gogh. I add thought to action and say, “With so much beauty in the world, why do so many people choose hate as the easiest emotion to feel?”

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

At-risk youth are as unique as any youth growing up in this country, maybe even more so, because they come from an environment and background which creates a negative stain on the character and motivation of each person. Changing that in order to create an adult who is a positive contributor to society, and to his or her own well being, is difficult because there is no one method for helping all at-risk youth.

The system fails when children in need are pigeon-holed because it's easier and cheaper instead of spending the time needed to understand the hurt a child is feeling, showing real concern, and finding avenues for the child to achieve success and feel good about the life they are creating.

William West is the author of the new book Kissproof World

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The Story Behind The Perfect Wrong by Nicole Snow

The Story Behind The Perfect Wrong by Nicole Snow

Shakespeare was the first time I remember reading about star-crossed lovers and it left an impression. Now that I'm a grown-up novelist and a lover of all things with forbidden love, I couldn't resist pitting two hearts against the entire meddling universe in my latest book, The Perfect Wrong.

It starts with a simple, innocent, somewhat tongue-in-cheek bet. Shy wallflower Delia needs to find a man to give up her v-card before summer ends or else her best friend chooses a man for her. Only, none of the men on campus fit the bill, and she's careening toward a loveless disaster until one fateful beach party.

Chris Triton is moody, damaged goods, and instantly obsessed with the alluring beach brat he encounters one lazy night. The fireworks are a welcome break from his post-mission trauma after a raid against a ruthless cartel and a looming dinner with his unhinged mother and her new husband. He's not expecting sweet Delia to show up as his new stepsister.

Cue the madness.

The frustration.

The bellowing curses aimed at the sky that only a former Navy SEAL like Chris can roar.

That should be the end of it, but orders from his security firm's bosses to lay low at his new stepfather's mansion brings him painfully close to the virgin girl he can't forget—or stop himself from teasing mercilessly.

What else can go wrong? How about Chris' toxic mother butting in every chance she gets and Delia's heartfelt fascination with unraveling her growly new stepbrother's secrets. And that's not the only thing undone when they're sent off to Vegas together to a fancy hotel with simmering tension, sharp words—and only one freaking bed.

This book is a hot mess and I love it so much. These two throw themselves into a cursed romance with heat and heart and so much soul. Sometimes the strongest love is the kind that was never meant to be.

If you like your books edgy, angsty, mega-spicy, and full of tropey goodness that'll dropkick your heart, you need this book in your life. Grab The Perfect Wrong in Kindle Unlimited and enjoy!

Nicole Snow is the author of the new book The Perfect Wrong

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New Mystery and Thriller Books to Read | October 11

Hold on to the edge of your seat as we hunt for clues and solve the case with these exciting new mystery and thriller books for the week! There are so many bestselling authors with new novels for you to dive into this week including Marian McCarthy, Carrie Rubin, David Baldacci, and many more. Enjoy your new mystery, thriller, and suspense novels. Happy reading!

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New Romance Books to Read | October 11

Looking to fall in love with some new romance reads? You’ll adore these exciting new novels! This week you can get your hands on books by bestselling authors Heather Grace Stewart, Jenny Hale, Nicole Snow, and more. Enjoy your new romance books and happy reading!

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New Books to Read in Literary Fiction | October 11

Literary fiction readers are in for a treat. This week’s latest releases list is full of intriguing reads you won’t want to miss! The new releases list includes so many bestselling authors like William West, Daniella Steel, Lydia Millet, and many more. Enjoy your new literary fiction books. Happy reading!