Friday, June 13, 2014

Cover Stories

Thought for the Day:  Do you ever judge a book by its cover???


[morguefile]


So who are you more likely to trust... a pious bunch of church-goers, led by a sweet-faced white-haired man with pale blue eyes and a cowboy hat...

[morguefile]






or a free-wheeling bunch of bearded, leather-clad bikers led by a bad-ass looking dude on a Harley?


Looks can be deceiving, you know. Could be a... cover story.


What if that sweet-faced church leader clutching his Bible like a weapon were... Fred Phelps?  Yeah, that guy.

[wikipedia]

The fruit loop guy who led the Westboro Primitive Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas from 1955 until he died a few months ago, the guy who taught his congregation to... hate. Protected by freedom of speech laws, they got their self-righteous jollies by protesting and picketing... even at funerals. Especially at funerals... especially at military funerals.



[wikipedia]
And what if those scary-looking bikers were Patriot Guard riders? They're members of a nation-wide volunteer organization of bikers who make a difference by attending military funerals to show respect for our fallen heroes, and to shield grieving families and friends from the additional pain dished out by those protesters. What's more, they do it peacefully, legally, and with great dignity.

I certainly know which of these groups gets my respect... and trust.

Bottom line, when referring to those particular church-goers and biker dudes, one could easily jump to the conclusion that you can't judge a book by its cover. But Whoa, Nelly! Not so fast. Sometimes, you can. Sometimes, we do. Like Joyce O'Neal said, You can't judge a book by its cover, but you can sure sell a bunch of books if you have a good one.

And I'm about to reveal a really really good one. My prediction is it's gonna be holding a really really good book inside, too. How do I know? Because I've read Carol's other books, and they were all terrific. Okay, ready to sneak a peek... ?

                                                                       Down...
                                                                 
                                                                       Down...

                                                                       Down...

                                                                       Down...

                                                                      YOWZA!


                                                                         


Isn't that gorgeous??? What's more, the story sounds terrific, too:

By the end of a long evening working as a special set of eyes for the presidential security detail, all Kat Marengo wants is to kick off her shoes and stash two not-really-stolen rings in a secure spot. Plus, maybe sleep with Dave Krizak. No, make that definitely sleep with Dave Krizak. The next morning, she wishes her new top priorities were so simple.

As an operative for a covert agency buried in the depths of the Department of Homeland Security, Kat is asked to participate in a matter of life or death—locate a kidnapped girl believed to be held in Corpus Christi, Texas. Since the person doing the asking is the wife of the president and the girl is the daughter of the first lady’s dearest friend, it’s hard to say no.

Kat and Dave quickly learn the real stakes are higher than they or the first lady believed and will require more than any of them bargained for. The kicker? They have twenty-four hours to find the girl—or the matter of life or death will become more than a possibility.


[morguefile]

Does that have you salivating like Pavlov's dog?


Yeah, me too.


I hate to tell ya, but Secrets of Honor isn't gonna be released until September. Yeah, I know. Bummer.

But don't blame me. Blame this lovely lady for teasing you like this. Blame Carol.

Yeah, just look at that smile on her face. That's because she knows how the story ends... the rest of us are just gonna have to wait. (Don't worry; I'll remind you in September.)

Wanta hear a little something about this talented writer with the 100-watt smile?

Carol writes grocery lists, texts to her family, new lyrics to old songs for her dogs, love notes to her husband, and novels for herself. And for you. In between, she blogs weekly at Under the Tiki Hut and is active on Facebook and Twitter.
She sees mystery and subterfuge everywhere. And she’s a sucker for a good love story—especially ones with humor and mystery. Crime Fiction with a Kiss gives her the latitude to mix and match throughout the broad mystery and romance genres. Having flexibility makes her heart happy.

LINKS

Under the Tiki Hut blog:  http://www.underthetikihut.blogspot.com
Website with Monthly Contest: http://www.carolkilgore.net


Once upon a time, there was a jewel thief. Her name was Katia. She worked for The Government. Yes, that government. But one day, Kat took something she shouldn’t have. She really shouldn't have done that.

****

How about you? Are you pretty good at judging books by their covers? Are you as het up to read this book as I am? (And did you find it as ironic as I did that Phelps' family had the audacity to ask the public to respect their privacy after he died...?  I swear, bearing spiritual fruit is one thing, but those folks are religious nuts.)

                             Until next time, take care of yourselves. And each other.


77 comments:

  1. This is one of the best cover reveals I have ever read. Wow.
    And yes, I do judge a book by its cover. Not finally, but certainly initially. And sadly (and I am only talking books here) some covers mean I will never investigate the book further. Nubile man being manacled and whipped? I won't be going there...
    Fortunately Carol's cover is a stunner. As is her writing. And her generosity to bloggers and other writers.

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    1. Thanks. Glad ya liked it. Looks like Carol has another winner on her hands, doesn't it? (Looking forward to getting it in MY hands...!) Her covers... and writing... just keep getting better and better.

      Unless someone specifically recommends a book to me, or I'm already familiar with its author, I'm likely to judge a book by its cover, too. No matter how hard we try, we can't read EVERY book, so we have to make our selections based on something. If a cover doesn't capture my eye, oh well...

      Delete
  2. Excellent book promotion and yes, the cover art is arresting. My best wishes on Carol Kilgore's latest effort! Regarding your question: Beyond a few banners of condolence and positive suggestions, I recall the public was quite happy to respect the privacy of the Phelps family, and will doubtless continue to do so. Most of the public is comprised of decent people who hope the Phelpses get even more private.

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    1. Thanks. It's easy to promote a cover that looks that good.

      Indeed. The public upheld the Golden Rule a heckuva lot better than the Phelps family and other members of their church ever have.

      Delete
  3. Or the bikers were those committed to protecting children, support abused children going to Court to give evidence etc, or that priest were the abuser ...

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  4. No tears were shed here when that nasty man died! As for the bikers, they always used to act as bodyguards for The Stones, and always did a good job.

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    1. None here, either. I hope his little congregation disbands now. Yeah, bikers have done a lot of good things, but some people still regard them with fear and distrust.

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  5. Wow...now THAT'S a cover release.

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  6. Yes, a book cover often is one of the deciding factors when I buy a book. However, I do look further and the story and the author play a larger part in my decision. That is also the way I look at people. There is much more between the covers of everybody, but sometimes you can see the good or evil in the first chapter, others take more reading.

    Those worse than horrid people from that church should be banned.

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    1. Wow, what a great way to put it. Hopefully those people with unpleasant first chapters can turn things around before their stories end.

      Like those horrid people from that church...

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  7. It is sad when we judge a book by its cover like that. I think we're all guilty of it sometimes. I wonder where it comes from. I notice that a lot of people judge "goth" people, but I met a group once and they were some of the kindest people I've ever met. Taught me a lesson about judging, thats' for sure.

    And as a follower of Carol's blog for quite some time, how wonderful of you to host her cover on here :-)

    Have a great weekend my friend!!

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    1. I think judging a book by its cover may be a deep-seated part of human nature. At one time, survival depended on a person's ability to make quick assessments as to whether someone was friend or foe. Unfortunately, some of us haven't yet evolved beyond making set-in-stone judgments based on first impressions and stereotypes, and that IS sad.

      You have a terrific weekend, too!

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  8. Wow, Susan! What a great cover reveal. Thank you. It's extra special because one of the themes of this story is that things are not always what they seem.

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    1. Wow, Carol! What a great COVER!

      My pleasure. I'm tickled to have inadvertently highlighted one of your themes. Cool. (As they say, even a blind hog sometimes finds an acorn...)

      Happy weekend!

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  9. Can't judge a book by its cover indeed, I'd trust the bikers over some nut juob like that any day.

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  10. Judging people before having evidence of their character is one of the oldest human pass times.

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    1. Yep, and jumping to hasty conclusions is the only exercise some people get.

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  11. It's a bad habit of mine - judging books by their covers and making decisions on first impressions. I think it's from a childhood spent moving and then 28 years of marriage with moves nearly every year until we came here - it was a bit of a self-defense thing.

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    1. I agree that the underlying reasoning for making snap judgments about people is based on survival instincts, and that isn't necessarily a bad habit. It's only when we get stubbornly attached to those initial assessments, even when they're wrong.

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  12. Naughty naughty naughty... you kept is on the line till your reveal.
    Well done !
    Being an artist I will pick a book up if I like the cover then read what it is about and if interested will keep it. So I guess I don't judge a book by it's cover I wait till the information starts.

    cheers, parsnip

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    1. Yep, I've got a naughty streak as wide as the Mississippi.

      So your head can be turned by a pretty cover, but it takes good substance to keep your attention. Sounds about right to me! For both books and people.

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  13. So much beauty and truth in your post. I totally agree with you on judging a book by its cover and the perils of it.

    Greetings from London.

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    1. Thanks. Great minds obviously DO think alike.

      Greetings back atcha.

      Delete
  14. Dear Susan,
    before I read the whole post I looked at the photos and your question: Whom would you trust? and I thought: the bikers.
    I often judge a book by its cover, but I put it away if it doesn't please me. I know that the expression is meant in a second way - well, I have to confess that I am impressed by a nice cover here too, but if content is missing, a fine cover it is not enough :-)

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    1. Dear Britta,

      You have good instincts, and you're right: a nice cover isn't enough. Superficial good looks without worthwhile substance is never gonna be enough.

      Delete
  15. great cover and teaser blurb. As far as judging books, the saying rings true. And I"m suspicious of anyone speaking with a bible in his/her hands. Sadly so many charlatans have ruined it for "sincere" folks. So, yes I have my bias. It is easy to jump to conclusions. In regards to literature, I"ll admire a cover, but it's the blurb or opening paragraph that clinches it.

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    1. Yeah, I think Carol's cover and blurb are terrific.

      The Bible-in-hand crowd makes my skin a little itchy, too, even though I know that isn't always a fair assessment. I just don't like people trying to force THEIR version of truth down MY throat.

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  16. great story and promotion. i am not really into spy crime but my friend sam would die to read something like this. i will tell him about it. i go 50-50 with being able to judge a good book. usually, though, i have to get bitten by a few snakes before i get someone good. no question i would absolutely trust the bikers over them - ill hold my tongue and be respectful. have a fabulous weekend. cheers!!

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    1. All right! Another vote for the bikers!

      As for getting bitten by a few snakes, the trouble with identifying someone as a snake is some of those snakes are actually beneficial. Being to tell the difference is key.

      Cheers!

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  17. I love Carol's cover, and I appreciate the Patriot Guard. I would never defend the Phelps, but are you sure they asked people to respect their privacy? I read that the mayor of Topeka asked people to leave them alone when Fred died. He might have been afraid of a riot. According to Shirley, the family spokesperson, they didn't have a funeral for Fred because they'd don't "worship the dead." Some people hoped that Westboro would die with Fred, but it won't. The remaining family members are too committed, and they should be committed.

    Love,
    Janie

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    1. No, I'm not SURE. I mean, the family didn't send me a personal message or anything, but when he died, an article in our newspaper reported that to be the case. I heard that reason for not burying him, too.

      That last sentence is perfect. Love it!

      Happy weekend!

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  18. With regard to the first part of your post, looks and first impressions can often be deceiving.

    As to the second part, Carol's cover is great and the book sounds like a real winner!

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    1. I have to agree with you on both counts.

      Have a terrific weekend!

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  19. Those church members were here in Lakeland last year to protest at several high school graduation ceremonies. I remember a sign at a sports bar in town: We love everyone except Westboro Baptist. Heh.

    That book cover is perfect. An interesting, good-looking heroine and then the line that reels you in...Once upon a time.... Who can resist now?

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    1. I would've wanted to stop in that bar for a drink out of appreciation for their sign.

      Yeah, I know! I'm certainly not gonna resist

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  20. Susan I like how you posed the question, I know we as people can be too judgmental when someone looks a certain way which is usually wrong, we really need to start looking deeper...

    Great way to introduce the book cover, have a really great weekend :)

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    1. Thanks. Absolutely. If we automatically dismiss people simply because of the way they look, we risk missing out on getting to know some mighty terrific people.

      You have a super weekend, too!

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  21. A great post Susan! You've got my interest in your friend's book via both the cover and the blurb! Will keep an eye out for it in September!
    Enjoy your weekend!
    I love the frog sculpture!!

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    1. Thanks, Wendy! If you don't wanta wait until September to check out Carol's new book, you can always get one of her earlier books now...

      You enjoy your weekend, too. Thanks. That sculpture is at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

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  22. The Patriot Riders are an amazing bunch of guys. That preacher is a nut job.
    Congratulations to Carol!

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  23. At first I was thinking of making some sort of joke like, "Did Carol get permission to put my Mom's picture on the cover of her book?"

    But then I read down just a little further and discovered the character name Kat Marengo.

    OK, what I'm about to write is NO JOKE!

    The most involved relationship I ever had with a woman in this lifetime was with a lady named... Kat Manganaro.

    First my Mom, and then my best girlfriend!
    Is it getting weird in here, or is it just me (who's weird)?

    ~ D-FensDogg
    'Loyal American Underground'

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    1. Woo ooo oooo... yeah, getting a little weird. Guess you have no choice but to read Carol's book when it comes out, so you can see if your name is in it...

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    2. So, Stephen . . . Have I been channeling you, or what? It's getting a little woo-woo in here.

      Hi, Susan!

      Delete
  24. Love Carol's new cover!

    And I'll take those bikers over those Westboro idiots any day of the week.

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  25. I didn't know they guy leading The Westboro church had a family requesting privacy. There's irony in that... ;) I don't wish anyone harm, but I do oftentimes wish they'd come to their senses. It's too bad when it's too late for it to happen, which is def. the case w/him.

    The cover on Carol's book is pretty. GL to her w/the release and sales.

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    1. Yeah, not only was their request for privacy ironic, it was the height of hypocrisy, too. Not sure if they'll ever change, because they seem to actually believe they're right.

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  26. I'm looking forward to reading Carol's newest!

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  27. Yes, ma'am, we sure do. Thanks so much for visiting.

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  28. May the Westboro church fade into obscurity & may their hatefulness vanish forever.

    That book you just recommended? I was about to order it up on my reader (sounded like a great vacation read), but then...oh you meanie you.

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    1. Well said. I agree.

      HA! Hey, I'm not the meanie here... blame it on Carol. She's holding out on us.

      Delete
  29. Congratulations, Carol! I've seen this cover making the rounds, and it is absolutely gorgeous!

    Judge a book by its cover? I admit I have done so. Sometimes writing has taught me to alter my thinking.

    In my last book, I don't know what possessed me to make Riley Pendare a motorcycle-riding, dagger-wearing tough guy with tattoo sleeves. That is NOT the type of hero I am usually drawn to. He came out of nowhere, proved himself, and encouraged me to look at people differently.

    Last week in the doctor's office, I was intensely aware of a big, muscular, tattooed guy in motorcycle gear who was waiting behind me at the receptionist's window. I had to change an appointment, and I explained it was due to a conflict with a retirement party they were throwing me at work. It took way too long for the receptionist to wrangle the computer into changing the appointment, and when it finally surrendered, I stepped aside with relief.

    "All yours," I told the scary guy behind me.

    "Thank you," he said politely. "And congratulations."

    I beamed. In my head, I chalked one up to Riley.

    Hurray for the Patriot Guard Riders.

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    1. How neat that in the process of creating your characters, they kinda ended up "teaching" the teacher. Great anecdote.

      Delete
  30. I have rarely trusted religious men, the one exception being the minister wo married me and my first husband. I've always trusted bikies because I've never known a bad one.
    As for books, I'm attracted by covers, but don't buy unless the blurb on the back appeals also, sometimes I'll flip through and read a bit here and there before deciding.
    Carole's book sounds like it will be a good read and I'll add it to my list.

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    1. I'm glad you've never known a bad biker. Come to think of it, I haven't either. (Matter of fact, my hubby used to be one.)

      Great! I have a feeling we'll both enjoy it.

      Delete
  31. The lunatics in this country have taken over the asylum.

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  32. Looks can be very deceiving. I've met people who look very put together, and they're the worst people to know, and vice versa. I love Carol's cover.

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    1. You're absolutely right about looks.

      Yeah, me, too. I can hardly wait until her book comes out.

      Delete
  33. Hi, Marie. Much to my surprise, I think I actually got the gist of that. Thank you so much for stopping by and signing on as a new follower. I'd be happy to visit your blog. It will be interesting to see how much I can understand.

    Welcome aboard!

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  34. Only you could find a clever way to tie this all together! A+ for creativity! Thank goodness that you're a wonderful person inside and out! That's probably why you and Carol get along so well! Congrats again to Carol!

    Julie

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    1. Thanks, but geez, no need to suck up... I ALREADY like you. We both yam what we yam.

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  35. Very awesome cover! And I have to agree that that Phelps guy was a definite nut--a rotten one at that.

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    1. It sure is!

      Your comment about a rotten nut made me think of a song we used to sing as kids: "Found a Peanut." (a rotten one, of course...)

      Delete
  36. what a fantastic intro!! yay for carol! excited about her new release coming up!

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    1. Thanks! Glad ya liked it. With so many bloggers helping spread the word about Carol's cover reveal, I hope a LOT of people are excited about her book.

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  37. What a great intro and reveal post! Carol's cover totally rocks and so do you. :)

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    1. Thanks, Julie. I think this is her best cover yet, and I can hardly wait to read what's in between the covers.

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  38. A thought provoking post! I never buy/judge a book from its cover. I guess the moral of the story is deeper. We should never judge by the outer cover- be it a book or a human being. Isn't it?

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    1. Yes, you're right. We should never judge a book or person by cover alone, but in the case of Carol's book? As much as I love that new cover, I'm judging how good the book is gonna be on her other books. (That gal can write!)

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  39. I love Carol's cover!

    It is easy to make a snap judgment based on a cover, but it helps to read a bit further to see the real person ... or book. :)

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    1. Me, too!

      Absolutely. First impressions may draw us in, but without substance to keep our interest, those snap judgments don't last.

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