THE SKY WORSHIPERS: An Interview with F.M. Deemyad

Mongolian landscape
F.M. Deemyad looks beyond the majestic landscape toward the history of Mongolia in The Sky Worshipers. (Photo courtesy Canva)

Ghengis Khan was the founder of one of the largest dynasties in history, the Mongul Empire, which united many of the nomadic tribes in Northeast Asia during the 13th century. Now, debut author F.M. Deemyad has courageously dared to retell his epic story in her new novel, The Sky Worshipers, and she is here with us today.

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Discover the ‘Secrets of the National Parks’ with a Little Help From National Geographic [REVIEW]

Dawn is the best time to see the Grand Tetons from any vantage point. (Photo courtesy Canva)

If you have ever hit the wide open road in search of adventure at America’s gorgeous national parks, you were probably blown away by the experience. Whether you stood on the edge of the Grand Canyon staring down into its vast chasm or watched Old Faithful erupt in a stunning display of geothermal energy in the midst of Yellowstone, you might think you’ve really experienced the best these parks have to offer. But honey, you ain’t seen nothing yet! Leave it to National Geographic to pull the hair out of your eyes and lead you on a journey unlike no other. All you need is the second edition of their guidebook, Secrets of the National Parks. It’s like having a park ranger in your pocket.

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Sabrina Jeffries’ ‘The Bachelor’ Addresses Social Issues That Are Still Relevant Today [REVIEW]

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Can love blossom in a garden of secrets? (Photo courtesy Canva)

He is a wounded soldier confident no woman can ever love him. She is a lady willing to pay to keep a secret hidden. But when a sinister villain from the past emerges from the shadows to threaten their future, will they learn to trust one another long enough to thwart their betrayer? Or will each of them prove to be their own worst enemy? Find out in Sabrina Jeffries’ second Duke Dynasty novel, The Bachelor.

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Jathan and Heather’s Split Pea Soup [RECIPE]

Jathan and Heather's Split Pea Soup
Our updated split pea soup is heartier and silkier than the original. (Photo by Jathan Fink, Jadeworks Entertainment)

Time has a way of changing things, including some of our tried and true recipes. A decade after publishing our original split pea soup recipe, we have improved upon the classic by adding more herbs, fresh veggies, and a reserved ham bone which lends our revised version an even silkier texture and robust flavor. Perfect for any time of year, this recipe makes for a hearty lunch or light supper, and goes perfect with a grilled cheese sandwich or tossed salad. Enjoy!

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RHAPSODY: Six Questions for Mitchell James Kaplan [INTERVIEW]

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Mitchell James Kaplan brings George Gershwin and the jazz age to dazzling life in Rhapsody. (Photo courtesy Canva)

Few musicians left as indelible a mark on the great American songbook as George Gershwin. But it was his epic masterpiece, Rhapsody in Blue, that made him an icon. From the first moment audiences heard the score’s opening wail, it was clear there were few musicians as adventurous or brilliant as Gershwin. Yet as with every artist, there is much more to his story than just his music. Now novelist Mitchell James Kaplan pulls back the curtain on the famed pianist’s fabled career in the forthcoming novel, Rhapsody, a book that is both vividly written and utterly compelling, and truly worthy of becoming our first Diamond Reviewed title for 2021. It shines a light not only on Gershwin’s discography, but also on his decade-long romance with another pianist, Kay Swift. We loved the book so much we couldn’t wait to sit down with Mitchell James Kaplan for this exclusive interview. Enjoy! —J&H

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