Laura DeLuca

Check out the Phantom Audio Book & Get the eBook Free!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The Phantom was a musical phenomenon that Rebecca had always found enchanting. She had no idea that her life was about to mirror the play that was her obsession. When her high school drama club chooses "Phantom" as their annual production, Rebecca finds herself in the middle of an unlikely love triangle and the target of a sadistic stalker who uses the lines from the play as their calling card. Rebecca lands the lead role of Christine, the opera diva, and like her character, she is torn between her two co-stars-Tom the surfer and basketball star who plays the lovable hero, and Justyn, the strangely appealing Goth who is more than realistic in the role of the tortured artist. Almost immediately after casting, strange things start to happen both on and off the stage. Curtains fall. Mirrors are shattered. People are hurt in true phantom style. They all seem like accidents until Rebecca receives notes and phone calls that hint at something more sinister. Is Justyn bringing to life the twisted character of the phantom? Or in real life are the roles of the hero and the villain reversed? Rebecca doesn't know who to trust, but she knows she's running out of time as she gets closer and closer to opening night. Only when the mask is stripped away, will the twenty-first century phantom finally be revealed.

Get your free copy of Phantom on Amazon. Find the audiobook on Amazon or Audible.

Scrooged is FREE for Christmas in July

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Stan Hope never cared much for his son-in-law Justyn Patko.

His black clothes and body piercings were bad enough, but the ridiculous notion of dragging Rebecca off to Broadway with a new baby on the way pushes Stan over the edge. How much can a father take?

After losing his cool at a holiday party, Stan gets a visit from three unexpected spirits. Can they help to change his close-minded ways?

Available exclusively on Amazon.

***Spoiler Alert! Don't read this before reading the first three books in the series. It will give away all the endings!**

Tomorrow Maybe by June A. Wilder - Narrated by Micaela Harper

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Tomorrow, Maybe is a warm, funny, emotionally honest romantic comedy about what happens after the first kiss—when love stops being hypothetical and starts being real.

Harper Leigh survived the beginning.

She said yes to love.

She kissed Ethan Reyes on a rooftop.

Now she’s facing the harder part: the middle.

The middle is where anxiety flares, routines form, arguments happen, and love becomes a daily choice instead of a spark. As Harper and Ethan navigate first dates, honest conversations, awkward mornings, and the terrifying vulnerability of staying, they discover that real intimacy isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, repairing when things break, and choosing each other anyway.

Told with sharp humor, deep empathy, and tender realism, Tomorrow, Maybe explores anxiety, emotional safety, and the quiet courage it takes to let someone stay.

Perfect for listeners who love:

Slow-burn, emotionally intelligent romance
Romantic comedies with heart and humor
Stories that center communication, healing, and real relationships

This is a story about choosing tomorrow—even when today feels uncertain.

Available on Amazon!

Get Player FREE and Check out the Audio Book!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Joshua Hanover had it all. He was handsome, rich, athletic, and had always been popular with the ladies. Yet, until he gets paired up with his beautiful but shy lab partner, Rosa, he never allowed himself to fall in love. As the chemistry between them grows, Josh realizes that his player days have come to end. But it seems his change of heart has come too late. Not only is Rosa leery of his bad boy reputation, he has four vindictive ex-girlfriends who are on a rampage. At first he doesn't take their threats seriously, but then his tires are slashed, someone tries to poison him, and one of the girls turns up dead. Josh doesn't know who to trust, but one thing is certain. It definitely isn't worth the price he's paying to be a player.

👉 Listen now on Amazon & Audible.

DARIUS ROSS – THE ROLL UP KINGPIN SHARES EXIT STRATEGIES FOR SMALL COMPANIES

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

In a world where adversity can either break or build, Darius Ross stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. Known as "The Roll Up Kingpin" for his expertise in smaller acquisitions, Darius Ross is a renowned motivational speaker, author, and life coach. He motivates business professionals, investors, young men, divorcees and many readers to overcome obstacles and create lasting financial legacies.

Darius Ross’s journey began amid hardship in Auburn Park, Chicago. Following a devastating fire that left him unhoused, as well as the loss of countless friends due to rampant gang violence, Darius refused to surrender to adversity. Instead, he channeled his struggles into motivation, relentlessly pursuing education and personal growth. His unyielding tenacity led him to achieving entrepreneurial success and inspiring others with his books and motivational speeches. His resilience transformed his life and established a foundation for national impact, proving that anyone can rise above their circumstances.

Drawing from his extensive experience in business acquisitions and entrepreneurship, Darius Ross offers the following five key suggestions for small companies looking to develop a successful exit strategy:

· Start Planning Early - Develop your exit plan well in advance. Early preparation allows you to maximize company value, address potential pitfalls, and position your business for a smooth transition.

· Understand Your Value -Conduct a realistic assessment of your company’s strengths, market position, and unique assets. Knowing your true value helps you negotiate effectively and attract the right buyers.

· Build a Strong Team -Ensure your company operates efficiently without you at the helm. A strong management team adds value and reassures buyers that the business will thrive post-acquisition.

· Maintain Clean Financials: Keep accurate and transparent financial records. Buyers are attracted to companies with clear, well-documented financial histories, which facilitate easier due diligence and valuation. Avoid aggressive tax avoidance or overly creative tax strategies, as these can deter buyers and complicate the sales process.

· Creative Financing Options and Strategies: Explore innovative financing structures that benefit both you and the buyer, ensuring a smooth exit with maximum profit and future potential. Consider options such as seller financing, earn-outs, deferred payments, or equity rollovers to make the deal more attractive and flexible for all parties involved.

· Seek Professional Guidance - Engage with advisors experienced in mergers and acquisitions. Legal, financial, and business experts can help you navigate the complexities of exiting, ensuring you secure the best possible outcome

Darius Ross’s legacy is built on his dedication to helping others create lasting financial legacies. His suggestions reflect a deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners. By following these strategies, entrepreneurs can position themselves for successful exits, unlocking new possibilities for growth and prosperity.

Today, Darius, who resides in New York City and Maine, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to empowering others and his tireless focus on creating financial legacies for regular folks that will transform their lives. Ross has authored six books, including Mastering The TPS BluePrint: Transforming Trauma into Triumph and Leadership DNA: Building a Thriving Business Culture. His latest venture, Dating at 50, which chronicles his experiences with love and romance as an older man, is expected to be released soon. He has successfully launched ventures across various industries and advises high-net-worth clients, specializing in finding opportunities in challenges. Through coaching, mentoring, and his writing—including his Forbes blog and podcasts—Ross shares insights on transformation, wealth creation, and resilience. He focuses on multifamily real estate, supports innovative startups as an angel investor, and inspires audiences worldwide to confront challenges and strive for greatness.

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Learn more about Darius Ross in his interview here or look for all his books on Amazon.

Chat with Phantom Narrator Micaela

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

With Phantom, Book 1 of the Dark Musicals Series, officially released on audio, I thought it was the perfect time to sit down with our narrator, Micaela, for a fun chat about the series, her theatre background, and what it was like bringing these characters to life.

Before the audiobook came out, we hopped on a video call to talk about everything from musical theatre to the challenges of narrating a story filled with dramatic scenes, emotional moments, and songs. I was so excited when I found Micaela. She has a gorgeous voice and was able to sing the musical scenes, which adds a whole new dimension to the audiobook experience. Hearing those moments performed instead of simply read is truly magical.

Sit down with us and enjoy this behind‑the‑scenes chat. Phantom is only Book 1 of 16 in the Dark Musicals world, and I’m excited to continue working with Micaela for many years, and many books, to come.

Watch the video below, and if you want to explore more, check out Phantom on audio or dive into the full Dark Musicals Series. Grab a copy on Amazon or Audible!

Rocky Horror Picture Show Mystery Box — Stylin Boxes Unboxing

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:30:15 +0000

If you’re a fan of cult classics, the Rocky Horror Picture Show Mystery Box from Stylin Boxes is a total treat. Stylin Boxes is known for curating fandom‑themed mystery boxes packed with officially licensed merch, artwork, collectibles, and fun surprises you never see coming. They specialize in pop‑culture deep cuts including movies, TV, comics, gaming .

I filmed a full unboxing, so definitely check out the Rocky Horror video to see my reactions in real time, but here’s a closer look at everything inside this gloriously theatrical box.

What Was Inside the Rocky Horror Mystery Box

The box was packed with bold, colorful, over‑the‑top goodies, exactly what you’d expect from anything Rocky Horror themed. In the photo, you’ll spot:

A large Rocky Horror Show poster with that iconic shocked face and dripping yellow lettering
A sheet of character stickers featuring Frank‑N‑Furter, Janet, Rocky, and the rest of the cast
A DVD/Blu‑ray case notebook with classic Rocky Horror artwork
A bright red Rocky Horror mug
A circular print featuring The Criminologist
A framed “Don’t Dream It, Be It!” art print
A handful of pins and keychains perfect for collectors

Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7

If you love Rocky Horror as much as I do, you might also enjoy my book Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7, which was directly inspired by the wild, irreverent energy of Rocky Horror. It’s packed with the same blend of camp, chaos, and dark theatrical fun — just with my own twist. You can explore more about it here: Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7.

Watch the Unboxing

To see the full breakdown and all the goodies up close, watch my Rocky Horror unboxing, complete with me dressed as Columbia. And if you missed it, make sure to check out my previous video on the Labyrinth mystery box, another fantastic Stylin Boxes adventure.

@authorlauradeluca Rocky Horror Mystery Box 📦 from StylinBoxes #mysteryboxes #unboxing #unboxingvideo #rockyhorrorpictureshow #fyp ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

Phantom eBook is FREE to Celebrate the Release of the Audiobook!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Get your free copy of Phantom on Amazon. Find the audiobook on Amazon or Audible.

Dark Musicals Fan Art Spotlight

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:30:59 +0000

Every once in a while, a reader connects with a book series in a way that becomes part of its history. For the Dark Musicals Series, that reader is Stephanie Piro, one of the cartoonists behind Six Chicks and the creator of the book review blog The Militant Recommender. Stephanie is a lifelong Phantom of the Opera fan, and years ago she stumbled across Phantom, Book 1 of my series. She’s followed the books ever since, and for each installment she’s drawn a sketch of one of her favorite scenes.

I loved her artwork so much that I ended up writing her into the Dark Musicals world. The fictional Stephanie Piro appears in Haunted, where she plays a soap opera star who joins the cast of the Woman in White movie.

With the release of Phantom on audio, it felt like the perfect time to revisit Stephanie’s beautiful illustrations. Check out the slideshow below to see her interpretations of some of the most iconic moments in the series.

Be sure to visit Stephanie on her blog, The Militant Recommender, and explore more of her stunning artwork on the Six Chicks Facebook page.

Grab a copy of the Phantom audio book on Amazon or Audible!

@authorlauradeluca Some of my favorite fan art of the Dark Musicals series by Stephanie from Six Chix! #amreading #fanart #cartoons #fyp #booktok ♬ The Incident - Maebi

Phantom is Now Available on Audio!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:20:36 +0000

Phantom, Dark Musicals Book 1, is now available on audio! Micaela Edman Harper delivers a performance that breathes new life into the characters more than a decade later. Revisit the series and see where the music and mystery began!

Rebecca has always been enchanted by the musical Phantom, but she never expected her life to turn into a chilling reflection of the story.

When her high school drama club chooses Phantom as their annual production, she lands the coveted lead, but stepping into Christine’s shoes comes with more than just stage lights and romance. She finds herself torn between two co-stars—Tom, the golden-boy athlete playing the dashing hero, and Justyn, the enigmatic Goth who is almost too convincing as the tortured Phantom.

As rehearsals begin, the drama doesn't stay onstage. Curtains fall, mirrors shatter, and chilling messages echo lines from the script. Is Justyn slipping too far into character, or is the real villain hiding behind another mask? With opening night fast approaching, Rebecca must uncover the truth before the final act turns deadly.

The stage is set. The Phantom is real. And he’s closer than she ever imagined.

Grab a copy on Amazon or Audible!

Jessica is FREE on Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Wilbur was used to attending his college formals alone. The Halloween Ball would be no different. He’s amazed when a beautiful girl in a Victorian gown shows an interest in him. What he doesn’t realize is that another woman has her eye on him as well. The White Lady returns every Halloween to take revenge on the men of the campus for her brutal murder. This year, she's chosen Wilbur as her next victim.

Available exclusively on Amazon.

Acclaimed Author, Christina H. Wilson, Receives IndieReader Award

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Christina H. Wilson’s powerful memoir, Believe: A Memoir in Stories, has been honored with the IndieReader Award in the Non-fiction Inspirational category. This esteemed recognition celebrates the book’s profound impact on readers and its enduring resonance within the literary community. Her book is a profound meditation on overcoming grief and rediscovering life after tragedy. Through honest stories and reflections, she explores resilience, love, hope, self-discovery, and the power of belief. Christina’s dedication to sharing her story and supporting others ensures her legacy as a voice of hope and inspiration for years to come.

As a child, Christina dealt with frequent illnesses and found solace in fairy tales. At twenty-five, she met Jeffery, a Wall Street magnate. The two fell in love, started a family together, and planned to live out their fairytale together. Their idyllic life was shattered after Jeffrey suffers a fatal car accident, leaving Christina alone to pick up the pieces. Naturally, she found solace in storytelling, which served as both a means to keep Jeffery’s memory alive and a channel for Christina to process her grief.

The memoir began as a personal project for Christina, created to preserve memories for her sons after their father's passing. Yet, her story evolved into a powerful narrative that combines her personal and professional experiences to inspire readers. Wilson's memoir stresses embracing all experiences—good and bad—as vital for self-discovery. She underscores the importance of unconditional love, family, and the belief that everything happens for a reason. Her message is clear: life should be fully experienced without regret, judgment, or expectation. Christina’s narrative offers comfort and encouragement to others facing adversity, making the memoir a source of inspiration.

In addition to Believe: A Memoir in Stories, Wilson continues to uplift and inspire others as a co-host on the Sisterhood Through Grief podcast. The podcast reaches a global audience and has amassed over 10,000 downloads. Through the Sisterhood Through Grief podcast, Christina extends her support beyond the pages of her book, creating a community for women navigating the challenges of grief. The podcast offers resources, advice, and encouragement, reinforcing the themes that define her memoir and her mission to inspire others. Christina is also the author of the children's book Letters to Heaven, aimed at helping children process grief. Christina’s memoir, her role as a podcast co-host, and her continued advocacy for resilience and hope have solidified her reputation as an acclaimed author and leader.

Believe: A Memoir in Stories holds a remarkable 4.73 rating on Goodreads and a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon. The book has been praised by BookLife, a division of Publishers Weekly, for its heartfelt storytelling and universal themes. The audiobook, produced by Deyan Audio and narrated by Jenn Liu, was honored as the Audiobook Reviewers 2025 Best Memoir. Since its debut, Believe: A Memoir in Stories continues to receive recognition and acclaim, affirming Christina H. Wilson’s influence in the literary world. The IndieReader Award and ongoing praise from readers and critics highlight the memoir’s lasting impact. Christina’s dedication to sharing her story and supporting others ensures her legacy as a voice of hope and inspiration for years to come. Believe: A Memoir in Stories is available now at major retailers, including Amazon, Audible, Wordeee.com, Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. For more information, visit christinahwilson.com.

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Grab a copy of Believe: A Memoir In Stories on Amazon!

Stag Hunt is FREE on Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

In ancient Britannia, the warrior who brought down the king stag was named the defender of the land. Eartha’s brother Balen has been in love with Princess Galiene since they were children. Upon the death of the High King, the tribesmen of the realm vie for the throne, and with it, the hand of the princess.

Balen is desperate to win his lady, but a rival tribesman is equally determined to keep them apart. With her brother, her dearest friend, and the country she loves hanging in the balance, Eartha must do the unthinkable to ensure her brother’s victory in the stag hunt. Sometimes true love needs a helping hand...or for blood to be spilled.

Available exclusively on Amazon.

Nine Lives is FREE on Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Johnny might be a nerdy gamer, but not even death can stop him from protecting his kid sister. He’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe—even if he has to do it in the form of a mangy Tom cat.

This short story also includes a sneak peek at Laura DeLuca's full length novel, The Forgotten Pharaoh.

Available exclusively on Amazon.

Waiting to Fly is FREE on Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Lenore’s life was just beginning when one terrible night destroys all her well-laid plans. Scared and ashamed, she wasn’t searching for love, but Ford offered it anyway. His constant support not only wins her affection, he heals her bruised heart and together, they’re ready to fly into a new beginning.

Ten years later, Lenore never imagined anything could shatter their happily ever after, but taking flight always means there’s a chance to crash and burn. Lenore fights fiercely for her husband, but some demons are too powerful. Sometimes, even love isn’t enough to ground you when you’re waiting to fly.

Available exclusively on Amazon.

Ivory Chapters Subscription Box — A Bookish Treat for Readers

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 23:55:24 +0000

If you’re a reader who loves discovering new authors and getting a few surprises along the way, the Ivory Chapters Subscription Box is a hidden‑gem that deserves a spot on your radar. It blends books, lifestyle goodies, and a touch of whimsy into a monthly package that feels like a personal gift.

Each month, Ivory Chapters curates a box built around a featured novel, then pairs it with themed goodies that match the vibe of the story. It’s part book discovery, part self‑care, and part “ooh, what’s this?”

Every box includes:

A featured book — A fresh, engaging read from an author you may not have discovered yet.
Bookish lifestyle items — Think, bookmarks, teas, or cozy accessories.
Themed surprises — small treats that tie into the story or season.

This is the kind of box that feels curated with intention, not just stuffed with filler. This month I got to try one of their boxes. Check out my unboxing video:

Unboxing this was so much fun and even the presentation is perfect papers the wrap the book is always beautiful, the themed surprises make reading even more fun. If you’re someone who loves supporting authors, discovering new reads, or just treating yourself to a monthly pick‑me‑up, Ivory Chapters is a great fit. It’s also a perfect gift for the book lover in your life especially the ones who already have too many books (as if that’s a thing).

Connect with Ivory Chapter

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Morrigan is eBook is Free to Celebrate the Release of the Audio Book!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Abandoned as an infant, Morrigan spent years shuffled around the foster system, never finding a permanent home. People either bullied or avoided her, sensing she was different. She does her best to keep her abilities hidden: the power to move objects with her mind, control fire, and glimpse the future. Believing her dreams of mystical creatures and castles are her imagination, it isn’t until Filtiarn appears, the dark knight of her fantasies and the man tasked with guiding her to the magical land of Tír na NÓg, that she realizes her true identity. Once reunited with her mother and grandmother, will their triad be able to save the forgotten land of magic from being devoured by an ancient evil?

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To celebrate the audio book release, get the Morrigan eBook free through 6/7/25!

Grab you copy of the audio book on Amazon or Audible.

The Banshee Legacy: An Irish Legends Mystery by L. R. Trovillion

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Sun, 31 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Aurnia O’Clery believes in science, facts, and what she can see with her own eyes. And that belief has served her well over the past twenty-seven years. It sealed her off from trusting the airy-fairy tales of enchantment and powerful legends her Irish granddad spun to convince her everything would be all right. Even after her mother’s suicide. After her dad abandoned her.

Growing up on the family’s horse breeding farm she learned life’s lessons the hard way: bad things happen, and the world isn’t fair. Only she secretly wishes it were. Especially when it comes to getting back at the man who took away her last shred of belief in anything good. Just when she thought the world couldn’t hurt her anymore, he manages to rip her heart apart with one final act of cruelty. But in a twist of fate, it appears that someone—or something—hears her prayers for justice and removes him from her life. Permanently.

As strange events continue to unfold, Aurnia is drawn into a mysterious domain where the unseen forces of ancient lore collide with the modern world. She’s forced to grapple with her skepticism and face the reality of a realm far beyond the grasp of science—a world where transcendent spirits play by their own rules.

Available on Amazon.

Morrigan is Now Available on Audio!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Sat, 30 May 2026 01:04:52 +0000

Grab you copy of the audio book on Amazon or Audible.

Destiny is FREE on Amazon!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 27 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Gabriella is a witch. The problem is, she doesn't remember. She repressed the memories of her powers years ago when her mother was murdered. Now, the warlock who was responsible for her mother's death has set his sights on Gabriella. He is determined to use her fear to turn her to the dark side of magick…even if it kills her. Her mother's spirit is reaching out to warn her, but even that she pushes away. Desperate to save her daughter, the spirit finds a male witch–one that just happens to be in love with Gabriella. Darron is more than willing to help but the two young witches will have way more to battle than just an evil warlock. There are overbearing jocks and petty rich girls who get tempers flaring and often set Gabrielle and Darron at odds.

There is more to the story than Gabrielle and Darron could even imagine. There are terrible secrets to be revealed, battles to be waged, and lives will be lost. Only after Gabrielle and Darron both come to terms with who they really are and open themselves up to the true meaning of magick, can they have any hope of fulfilling their destiny.

Available exclusively on Amazon.

Gabriella and Darron thought their magickal battle was over when they defeated the evil warlock, Richard. When her Aunt Donna seeks Gabriella's help in rescuing her catatonic daughter from the Dark Coven, Gabriella discovers that her cousin holds a power within her that would be catastrophic in the hands of the evil witches. Her coven sets out on a journey that may be their last. Along the way, they meet new allies, face devastating treachery, and battle not only the Dark Coven, but the darkness within themselves. When Gabriella finally comes face to face with the cousin she never knew existed, her true destiny is unveiled and the fate of the mortal world is in her hands.

Also available on Amazon.

Guest Post - From Twins to Narcissism by Dr. Michelle Snyder, The Symbologist

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Sun, 24 May 2026 02:08:32 +0000

From Twins to Narcissism

Dr. Michelle Snyder, The Symbologist

Today, the word narcissism usually means an unhealthy obsession with oneself. The idea comes from the ancient Greek story of Narcissus, a beautiful young man whose name became tied to vanity and self-love.

Most people know the version told by the Roman writer Ovid. In that story, the nymph Echo falls deeply in love with Narcissus. She tries to show him her love, but he rejects her. Heartbroken, she disappears into the woods until only her voice remains. Later, Narcissus comes upon a pool of water and sees his reflection staring back at him. According to the modern version of the myth, he falls in love with his own beauty, unable to look away. In some tellings he wastes away beside the water. In others, he drowns trying to embrace the image. Where he dies, a flower grows, and it is named the narcissus.

Another version adds an interesting detail. A goddess asks the lake why it cries for Narcissus. The lake replies that it mourns him because, in the depths of his eyes, it could see its own beauty reflected back.

Stories change over time. Cultures reshape myths to fit their own values and beliefs. When we look deeper into older versions of the Narcissus story, a very different picture begins to appear.

The Greek writer Pausanias recorded an older tradition in which Narcissus had a twin sister named Narcissa. The two dressed alike, hunted together, and were inseparable. Anyone who has known twins understands how close that bond can become. According to this older account, Narcissus loved his sister deeply. When she died, he was overcome with grief. He would kneel beside the water, staring into it because the reflection reminded him of her. He was not admiring himself. He was mourning someone he had lost.

Over time, Narcissa disappeared from the story and was replaced by Echo. The meaning of the myth changed with her disappearance. What may once have been a tragic story about grief and memory slowly became a warning about vanity and selfishness.

Some ancient versions even suggest that Narcissus and his sister were lovers. To modern readers this may seem shocking, but sibling marriages were not unusual in parts of the ancient world. Myths often preserve fragments of older customs and beliefs that later cultures no longer accepted. As societies changed, stories were rewritten to match new ideas about morality.

This happened in many myths. Characters were transformed, condemned, or rewritten to serve later religious and cultural views. Medusa is another example. The original stories became buried beneath newer versions shaped by fear, morality, and judgment.

The myth of Narcissus also connects symbolically to mirrors, reflection, twins, and the constellation Gemini. Water acted as the first mirror long before polished glass existed. Reflection itself carried symbolic meaning in the ancient world. The story may once have explored memory, identity, grief, and the mysterious bond between twins.

But today the myth is usually reduced to a simple lesson: self-love is dangerous. The older story, however, may have been far more human. Instead of vanity, it may have been about sorrow. Instead of pride, longing. Instead of selfishness, the unbearable pain of losing someone who felt like part of yourself.

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Connect with Dr. Snyder on her Facebook Group. Her website is also coming soon and will be called The Symbolist.

Falling Star is FREE on Amazon!

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 20 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Drew DiPalma feels like he's living a lie.

He's had it with his Hollywood persona, the high-maintenance women, and his sleazy agent. To escape the madness, he flees to a tourist town he'd often visited as a child. He never expected to find love on that little island. Then he stumbles upon Lainey alone on the swing set of a deserted beach.

After a dozen internet dating disasters, Lainey Riccardo has given up on romance--until she meets a West Coast hunk who has no trouble winning her heart. But Lainey only knows him as Drew, not the Oscar-nominated actor who's constantly scandalized in the tabloids.

When she learns the truth, will the small town Jersey girl be able to accept Drew's fast-paced life? Or will the truth drive her away forever?

Book 2 In Perfect Harmony and Book 3 Brushed by Fate are available now! See how this series plays out for these Jersey girls. Get all three books for only $1.98!

Find the entire series exclusively on Amazon.

Coming Fall 2026- Last Laugh - A Domme Mom Murder Mystery

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

At Jester’s Landing, the rides aren’t the only things that’ll make you scream.

When Atlantic City’s most notorious clown fetishist turns up dead minus his head, suspicion falls on his favorite dominatrix. Especially after he cuts his bitter family out of the will and leaves her his entire fortune.

Head domme Rhonda Campbell, aka Mistress Kali, refuses to let her friend take a flogging for a murder she didn’t commit. She dives into a case where the scandals are stickier than cotton candy and the suspects are strapped to their own emotional roller coasters.

After a month working security at D.O.M.M.E., LLC, Detective Jason Dee thought he’d seen every kink in the carnival, but this investigation tests his limits. Between wrangling his partner’s clown phobia, surviving the Dungeon’s circus-themed fundraiser, and keeping his feelings for Rhonda on a short leash, he’s juggling more than evidence. He’s trying to catch a killer determined to get the last laugh.

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If you haven't already, check out the first two books in the series, Tickled to Death and Blow the Whistle!

Crime was yesterday’s kink… until it came crawling back.

Former paralegal Rhonda Campbell left the law behind when she swapped legal pads for latex. Now, as Mistress Kali, she runs the most exclusive BDSM dungeon in Atlantic City, where pleasure pays the bills and fantasy is always in play—until a longtime client is smothered with a French tickler. Talk about a safe word fail.

Enter newly relocated Detective Jason Dee, fresh off the gritty streets of Philly and itching for a real case—because so far, New Jersey’s biggest offense seems to be overpriced cocktails. When he finally lands a murder investigation, his prime suspect is a whip-smart, leather-clad domme who’s as infuriating as she is intriguing.

With a killer on the loose and tensions rising, Rhonda and Jason must combine their expertise in sex and homicide to crack the case—before another victim is tickled to death.

Grab a copy of Tickled to Death today. Available exclusively on Amazon.

At Bayside Women’s Correctional Facility, justice isn’t just blind. It’s bound, gagged, and begging for mercy.

Rhonda Campbell thought she flogged her last case with the Atlantic City Police, but when an inmate turns up dead with telltale suspension marks, the cops come calling again. With the murder pointing to kink, coverups, and dirty power plays, Rhonda agrees to go undercover behind bars, where the guards are shady, the gangs are mean, and the jumpsuits are definitely not her color.

Meanwhile, Detective Jason Dee’s been reassigned from homicide to handling crop-wielding dominas and wayward subs. While Rhonda plays prisoner, he and his partner are stuck guarding the Dungeon. His feelings for Mistress Kali are as complex as her contract negotiations and just as dangerous, but when the prison gig needs a visitor with street cred, Jason’s all in, even if playing her pimp means risking more than just his dignity.

With lives on the line and secrets tightening like a velvet cuff, Rhonda and Jason need to blow the whistle on this prison scandal before another girl ends up permanently suspended.

Print and eBook available now exclusively on Amazon! Audio book is currently in production, narrated by Maggie Weber from Refashioned Hippie!

Brigid's Flame is FREE on Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Thu, 14 May 2026 00:22:48 +0000

River is a struggling author who is depressed about his failing career and his strained relationship with his girlfriend. On the sacred night of Imbolc, he looks to the Gods for inspiration. The goddess Brigid answers his prayers. In her arms, his passion is rekindled.

Also included with this short story is a sneak peek at Falling Star, A Jersey Girl Novel.

Available exclusively on Amazon.

Thunderstruck is FREE on Amazon

noreply@blogger.com (GabbyLowe) — Wed, 06 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Taranis, the Celtic god of Thunder, has spent an eternity longing for the touch of a single mortal woman. He has followed her through incarnations, but always his powers were too much for her to bear.

Tara is a deaf woman, struggling to fit in the hearing world. She hides a gentle heart behind a tough exterior. Will she let down her defenses when a handsome mute tries to win her heart?

And even if she does, can Taranis’ love come without a death sentence?

Available exclusively on Amazon.