Saturday, February 27, 2021

Spring into Two Best-Selling Must-Have Books: Superfoods & Herbs & Spices

 By Cal Orey


Yikes! Some folks are super surprised to discover eggs, pizza, cheese, gelato, whole grains, fatty Alaskan fish with herbs, wine water are some of the top 20 superfoods in this new book! 


But note, ALL of these foods are found in the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet (many versions are available) ranked in 2018 as a top diet in the nation! Keep in mind, some of these superfoods should only be eaten in moderation--and yes, daily activity and drinking water  (an essential superfood!) are part of the deal. 


Did you know the keys to a long life and vibrant good health can be found on the shelves of your local supermarket?
 
Apples, leafy greens, shellfish, yogurt—even ice cream and pasta. The latest scientific studies reveal that many of the classic foods you’ve always loved are superfoods that can supercharge your health! Not only are they delicious, they’re affordable—plus these essential farm-to-table favorites can work with any diet plan, from the balanced Mediterranean Diet to the hunter-gatherer Paleo plan.


With over 50 recipes for both cooked and raw dishes, including smoothies and soups, a detox juice fast and a jump-start pounds-off diet, this down-to-earth guide will show you how to get healthy and stay healthy with body-friendly superfoods.

*Boost your immune system with citrus and nutrient-dense berries, including fresh, frozen, and dried. 
 
*Enjoy the healthy fats in eggs and nuts, including nut butters, to fight inflammation, slow the aging process, and lower your risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Mediterranean Pizza, thin crust,
whole grain, tomatoes,
tomato or pesto sauce, feta cheese
Moderation--1 or 2 slices

*Trade white sugar for antioxidant-rich sweeteners like maple syrup, the newest superfood!
 
*Create home remedies designed to ease anxiety, improve sleep, boost brainpower and enhance energy.  



*Keep your home spotless for kids and pets using eco-friendly superfood-rich formulas.

 
*Pamper your mind and body with the same food-based treatments that health spas use, including ingredients like seeds and seaweed. 


Now you can indulge in a Pesto Pizza or Berry Basil Smoothie, a Chicken Bone Broth or dark chocolate gelato, while chilling with an ancient-oats facial or relaxing in a warm, herb-scented bath. Infused with heartwarming stories and inspiring legends, The Healing Powers of Superfoods will take you to a world of wellness that starts at home with our favorite foods from Mother Nature—enjoyed in a new way with an exciting twist!

* From the back cover of The Healing Powers of Superfoods (Kensington Books, Citadel; Cal Orey) 2019. All rights reserved.

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Spice it Up -- Wildflowers and Cornbread for Pre-Spring

 By Cal Orey

In December 2019, my pre-pandemic trip
to Anchorage, Alaska, didn’t include edible flowers and fresh herb salads. But if I lived there, I could have ordered online dried edible wildflowers. And here on the South Shore we’ve got fresh greens, vegetables, and herbs year-round. So, humming the classic lyrics: “California Dreamin’ on a winter’s day” I put together a salad and freshly baked muffins to warm me, and you, too...

Here, an edible flower salad inspired by my Central California cooking mentor Gemma Sciabica, who was dishing up flower dishes like this one back in the twentieth century the way you can do now in the twenty-first century.

Edible Wildflowers and Spinach Salad


1½ cups baby spinach or curly endive, chopped


½ cup feta and herb cheese, crumbled


1 red pepper, roasted, chopped


2 cups arugula, chopped


¼ cup cilantro


4 sprigs thyme, chopped


¾ cup cherry tomatoes, chopped


¼ to 1/2 cup edible flowers for garnish (I prefer pansies,found online)


½ cup seeds (pumpkin or sunflower)

 

In a bowl, combine all ingredients except the flowers. Set aside. In another bowl, whisk ½ cup olive oil and 2 teaspoons herbal vinegar (a ratio of 3 to 1 for oil and vinegar). Garnish with flowers and sprinkle seeds on top. Drizzle you’re your fave store bought dressing or olive oil and red wine vinegar (3 parts oil, 1-part vinegar). Serves 2 as a main dish, 4 as a side dish.

Sierra Honey Herby Cornbread Muffins

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup cornmeal

1/4 cup honey

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 cup 2% low-fat organic milk

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 brown eggs

½ cup jalapeno pepper, green, sliced

2 tablespoons fresh garlic cloves, minced

 

Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Stir till mixed. Add milk,

 oil, and eggs to the dry mixture. Fold in peppers and garlic.

Pour batter into paper lined muffin tins. Bake at 400 degrees

for about 15 to 20 minutes till golden brown. Makes about

10 to 12 medium muffins. Best warm out of the oven. Spread

with a mixture of half European-style butter and honey.

 One year since we’ve been coping with the pandemic and I’ve learned to try and adapt to change. So, I’ve given salads a twist with wildflowers. The cornbread? I’ve probably told you all how much I miss our Marie Callender’s. It was a place I’d go and get cornbread to love. But hey, we learn how to go with the flow, right? Pairing this pre-Spring slimming nature’s salad with cornbread muffins and a kick of peppers will feed your body and spirit with a splash of good for you novelty.

 Adapted from The Healing Powers of Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures

 -- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com. 

Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Book Reviews for the #9 Release The Healing Powers of Herbs & Spices

  By Cal Orey 

 ...we're thrilled about the new offering in the Healing Powers series from bestselling author Cal Orey featuring 50 recipes and A-to-Z guide cataloguing most versatile herbs and spices for flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illness." -- Woman's World magazine, Book Club: Nonfiction


As in her previous bestselling books, Cal Orey combines groundbreaking research into all these health and weight loss benefits with home cures, cosmetic uses, household hints, dozens of heart-healthy Mediterranean style recipes, legends, nutritional charts, and heartwarming anecdotes. --Tathaastu Magazine, book review

Not only is the book a guide for people who love to cook and bake, but it offers a fun way to learn through legends, stories and many of Orey's experiences derived from both childhood and present times. -- Tahoe Daily Tribune, book review

The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: A Complete Guide to Nature's Timeless Treasures. The ninth installment of the Healing Powers series from nutrition writer Orey explores how herbs and dried spices can provide home cures, weight loss benefits, and beauty treatments.  -- Publishers Weekly

... Orey's ninth title in her Healing Powers series is part cookbook, part healthy living reference...After the educational parts and charts, most pages are devoted to nearly 80 recipes for almost every possible eating occasion: jumbo anise biscotti, cayenne spicy salsa, saffron baked custard, spicy meatless shepherd's pie.... An herb a day just might keep the doctor at bay. Includes glossary and resources. --Booklist 

Herbal medicines can be helpful in treating many medical concerns as well as be used to support our health. These natural healing modalities discussed in Orey's refreshing book for  the 21st century well-being  have been part of my integrative family practice for nearly 50 years. -- Elson Haas, MD (ElsonHaasMD.com) is the author of 11 books including Staying Healthy with the Seasons and Staying Healthy with NEW Medicine.

I loved the complexity of it: there are personal stories from the author which bring flavor to the pages, there are a lot of details about the chemistry and the history of the spices and, of course, their benefits for health. These benefits are represented in many forms, each spices has a dedicated page, but here are also charts and several health issues that have suggested herbs that can alleviate these issues. There are folk types of advice mixed in, beauty and home benefits from using herbs and a lot of recipes. -- Reviewer NetGalley

It's very refreshing to come across a book packed with solid, helpful information on healing and wellness that doesn't try to discredit modern medicine. There is absolutely a place for both in our lives, and crucial information is being lost in the delirium of "internet research." -- Reviewer NetGalley

Sunday, February 21, 2021

Predictions for The World After Covid-19

 By Cal Orey

In December 2019, the threat of the novel coronavirus in Asia soon became a sobering reality around the world... So, what will our lives be like in 2021 and 2022? 

As the virus spread in Italy and offshore on cruise ships, we didn’t know of the scope of how the virus named Covid-19 would affect America. As the virus made its way to nursing homes in Washington and New York City became the epicenter – people were introduced
to a global pandemic. And then, our lives changed.

We quickly were introduced to quarantining in our homes to isolation from friends and family. Cities and towns were shutdown. Stockpiling food was the new normal. It was time to mask up, wash our food and hands – and fear the unknown. At first, going to the doctor, work, restaurants, gym, hair salon and dog groomer were off limits. Only essential services – groceries and medications --were available to us unless we were an essential worker – doctors, police, firefighters and store clerks. Now, more than a year later, welcome to what the future may be like for us now in the Spring of 2021 and into 2022.

Social Distancing: These days, more services are open to people depending on where they live and what tier they’re in to determine what activities are safe. Most businesses – except bars, indoor restaurants, and concerts to large crowded events – are open but capacity is limited. Masking up (now we’re told to double up) is the norm but still countless people do not follow the restriction for political reasons. In 2022, wearing a mask inside most businesses will likely be arequirement as a safety precaution – especially where there are isolatedoutbreaks -- and on all public transportation.  (I wrote this article a week before Dr. Fauci's statement was publicized.) And note, some people will continue to stay home, stay safe and keep distancing, especially during outbreaks and when variants are spreading.

Health (Body/Mind): People and doctors adapted to telemedicine. In fact, both patients and healthcare practitioners like the convenience of this high-tech type of appointment. On screen doctors are going to still be used; however, preventive healthcare visits may begin to be more frequent. The downside is post traumatic stress disorder is going to be commonplace. Mental health due to stress, anxiety, and depression due to the pandemic stressors of isolation to losing friends and family, will be more prevalent than ever before. People will seek help through conventional and holistic ways to cope and move forward.

Work from Home: The new work from home or remote working will continue for countless businesses. During the ups and downs of adjusting to the new remote business environment, we’ve learned it is healthier because there is less commuting, cleaner air, and more time for chillaxing. While essential workers will continue to attend the workplace, non-essential workers will stay at home and embrace the new normal.

School Days: Kids, parents, and teachers have all been challenged by dealing with at home schooling or hybrid learning (on and off days at school). By 2022 attending schools will likely be back to normal – but there will be safety precautions for all. Also, for isolated virus outbreaks, at home schooling will be used as needed.

Play Indoors/Outdoors: In 2021 we are still canceling large events, such as sports and music concerts. By 2022, we may find ourselves enjoying crowds once again. However, safety precautions like in other open businesses will be used and accepted. During the next year, probably more than 60 percent of Americans will have been vaccinated but masking up in a crowd will likely still be requested to keep people safer.

Dining Out: Since eating in restaurants is one of the riskiest activities, businesses will be following safety precautions for safety’s sake. But if the virus continues to wane, capacity at eateries may be back to near normal. During the pandemic the surge of home-cooking was a healthful change. People were forced to eat more healthier, immune-boosting, heart-healthy foods and had more control with ingredients and portion sizes. And this trend may last. Also, while gyms have been shut, we have turned to creative at-home workouts which may last.

Travel: Currently, there is talk of “Test Before You Fly” if we want to fly internationally. Showing proof of a negative Covid-19 test is used by some states for domestic travel. Also, some states enforce travelers to quarantine for 14 days. In 2022, the quarantine restriction may be lifted if we show proof of a negative test and/or vaccination. This will vary amongst airlines, states, and countries…Road trips to camping in the great outdoors will still be more common than flying due to changes and rules, much like after 9-11. Cruises will not be as popular as they once were. Hotels will be more popular than motels because they have more of a budget to follow safety precautions. But the hospitality industry will take a long time to recover so most lodging will suffer economic consequences.

 The bottom line: By 2022, the world as we knew it during pre-pandemic times will be a memory and the future will not be the same. After the height of the AIDS pandemic, we were wary as the uncertainty and danger of contracting the virus lingered. But we adapted to a new normal. While a vaccine was not discovered for HIV, we do have therapeutics that help bolster the immune system, whereas, people who are infected can and do live healthier and longer lives. But there is no cure so we take precautions.

While Covid-19 may never disappear – and the variants may present a more contagious and deadly virus -- nobody knows the answer yet. But the odds are that we will continue to fight Covid-19 and new variants.

We will enjoy socializing, sports and cultural events, and traveling by 2022. But note, we will never forget the horrors of the pandemic and loss of lives. And there is the threat for new superbugs that may pay us a visit. The best part? Some people believe there will be a resurgence of activities like the Roaring Twenties and we will do all the things we’ve missed dearly. Yes, life will go on – but it will be a new, guarded world after the relentless coronavirus blindsided us.

-- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com.

Thursday, February 18, 2021

Spice Up Winter with Dutch Apple Pie (Allspice-d)

 By Cal Orey

Welcome to the Dutch apple pie. This apple pie has roots that go way, way back to the Middle Ages. It is an easy pie to make on a chilly day. It calls for a pie crust, tart apples, and a sugar and spice crumb topping. It’s lighter than a double crust apple pie with ice cream. A Dutch apple pie is a picture perfect, delight during late winter in the mountains. (More Recipes in The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: Timeless Treasures for year-round.)

This pie which can be savored warm out of the oven or cold takes me back to a book tour. I joined the man who predicted earthquakes. The Seattle bookstore was packed with his fans, and it was a fun event. After, instead of joining the crowd I escaped to Pike Place Market. I recall ordering a hot latte and slice of Dutch apple pie. While I love traveling to the Pacific Northwest – homesickness for the sierra is common for me when gone.

So, this recipe – a hybrid of a different apple pies I’ve baked for you -- is inspired by the past trip I took to promote earthquake book. The fruit pie is a nostalgic delight paired with Mother Earth’s spices and herbs that are treasures from nature.

Rustic Dutch Apple Pie

1 store bought premium brand pie crust, deep dish

5 -7 Granny Smith apples, peel, core, cut in thin slices

½ sliced lemon juice

1/2 cup white granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

3 tablespoons flour (I used the self-rising variety)

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Dash of nutmeg

½ teaspoon apple pie spice (McCormick)

Topping

¾ cup flour (I used the self-rising variety)

¼ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup light brown sugar

1/3 cup butter, cold

Whipped cream

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Thaw frozen crust for 20 minutes. Use a fork and prick holes into the bottom of the pie crust. Brush top of crust with 1 egg white mixed with a few tablespoons water. (This will seal the crust so it’s not soggy.) In a bowl, combine apples, juice, sugars, flour, and spices. Spoon into pie crust. In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, and butter. Mix the ingredients until a crumbly texture. Top the apples. Place pie on foil (cover edges of pie crust) and set on a baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for about 50 minutes or until crust edges are light brown and apples mixture is bubbly and soft. Remove. Let cool. Tip: If you put it into the fridge it guarantees perfect slices when cutting. Top with a dollop of whipped cream. *I sprinkled cinnamon on the whipped cream. You can also add a garnish of fresh mint, rosemary, or thyme.

Recent cameo appearances on Coast-to-Coast AM radio show, dishing on earthquake predictions took me back in time to my connection to the late geologist Jim Berkland. He predicted the ‘89 San Francisco shaker, I penned articles and then his biography. We were regular guests on C2C AM; then I took the reins. This Dutch apple pie is a down-to-earth pie full of yummy aroma. It is comfort food at its best – a timeless treat.

-- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com.

Monday, February 15, 2021

Best Book Reviews for the New Release: Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures (I tossed the worst of 'em)

 By Cal Orey

As an author for three decades, I know collecting book reviews, one by one, can be an ego boost or snipe that can send me to bed for half a day. I recall George Elliot's S.O. would hide reviews from her because she was so sensitive. John Steinbeck was upset over the social chaos that followed "Grapes of Wrath." Yes, these two masters influenced my writing and I get their pain when critics speak out. But often, you do please people. Note to self: You cannot please everyone ever...

Reviews

* ...we're thrilled about the new offering in the Healing Powers series from bestselling author Cal Orey featuring 50 recipes and A-to-Z guide cataloguing most versatile herbs and spices for flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illness." -- Woman's World magazine, Book Club: Nonfiction
* * *
* As in her previous bestselling books, Cal Orey combines groundbreaking research into all these health and weight loss benefits with home cures, cosmetic uses, household hints, dozens of heart-healthy Mediterranean style recipes, legends, nutritional charts, and heartwarming anecdotes. --Tathaastu Magazine, book review
* * *
*Not only is the book a guide for people who love to cook and bake, but it offers a fun way to learn through legends, stories and many of Orey's experiences derived from both childhood and present times. -- Tahoe Daily Tribune, book review

*The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: A Complete Guide to Nature's Timeless Treasures. The ninth installment of the Healing Powers series from nutrition writer Orey explores how herbs and dried spices can provide home cures, weight loss benefits, and beauty treatments.  -- Publishers Weekly


*... Orey's ninth title in her Healing Powers series is part cookbook, part healthy living reference...After the educational parts and charts, most pages are devoted to nearly 80 recipes for almost every possible eating occasion: jumbo anise biscotti, cayenne spicy salsa, saffron baked custard, spicy meatless shepherd's pie.... An herb a day just might keep the doctor at bay. Includes glossary and resources. --Booklist 

Herbal medicines can be helpful in treating many medical concerns as well as be used to support our health. These natural healing modalities -- discussed in Orey's refreshing book for  the 21st century well-being -- have been part of my integrative family practice for nearly 50 years. -- Elson Haas, MD (ElsonHaasMD.com) is the author of 11 books including Staying Healthy with the Seasons and Staying Healthy with NEW Medicine.

I loved the complexity of it: there are personal stories from the author which bring flavor to the pages, there are a lot of details about the chemistry and the history of the spices and, of course, their benefits for health. These benefits are represented in many forms, each spices has a dedicated page, but here are also charts and several health issues that have suggested herbs that can alleviate these issues. There are folk types of advice mixed in, beauty and home benefits from using herbs and a lot of recipes. -- Reviewer NetGalley, 5 stars
* * *
It's very refreshing to come across a book packed with solid, helpful information on healing and wellness that doesn't try to discredit modern medicine. There is absolutely a place for both in our lives, and crucial information is being lost in the delirium of "internet research." -- Reviewer NetGalley

Saturday, February 13, 2021

Powers of Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures - Woman's World Book Club -- Best Books of the Week 2/1/21

   Cal Orey

The mega-popular Healing Powers series from bestselling nutrition writer Cal Orey continues with its 9th installment, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices, exploring the many ways fresh herbs in your fridge and dried spices in your kitchen cupboard can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments, and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plant-based dishes. 

And during the pandemic there is a spice surge because of the home-cooking comeback!
The key to vibrant health for all generations is in your kitchen...
Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more (I use a lot of the McCormick classic brand) --for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illnesses. The latest research reveals that the seasonings already in your pantry--or easily found fresh in your supermarket or garden--can lower your risk for cancer, heart disease, and obesity. This A-to-Z guide catalogues the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.

Discover how to use nature's gifts including allspice, chives, fennel, oregano, pepper, tarragon, saffron, and special blends like Herbes de Provence to:

●Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism--at any age!
●Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
●Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
●Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects--and trigger feel-good endorphins--using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
●Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.
Caraway Breadsticks, anyone? How about Cilantro Lime Slaw, Herbal Greek Bean Soup, or Roasted Paprika Cornish Hens? With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide to embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of aroma and deliciousness!

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Eat Pray Chocolate (The Healing Powers of Chocolate ebook sale 1.99)

 By Cal Orey

Since the 1900s, most cookbooks included a brownie recipe. But if I’m going to be honest, I’ve always used the store-bought brownie mix. It’s easy. You add an egg, oil, water; mix it up and bake. Done. But hey, if kids on the “Food Network” show can make brownies I decided it’s time. Yep, I ditched the box method and made homemade brownies...

Baking moist chocolate brownies from scratch is easy to do. These gooey double chocolate brownies include good heart-healthy ingredients, including cocoa powder, dark chocolate chunks, and walnuts--for American Heart Health Month. Speaking of heart matters, brownies take me back in time of a Tahoe snowy Valentine’s Day…



One morning I was snuggling with a male friend who woke me up with three words, “Happy Valentine’s Day.” Then, the phone rang. When I answered the call, a man’s voice said, “I  wanted to let you know--I love it.” Those unforgettable words were from my editor. He adored my first book proposal (which I procrastinated doing). The assigned topic was The Healing Powers of Vinegar. “Is that all?” I responded; I think I was in shock because I sounded too chill. After the conversation ended, my pal was AWOL. I was left with my Brittany spaniel to cuddle and celebrate.
Years later, on this year’s Valentine’s Day, I woke up to a contract via email. It was for book number nine in the Healing Powers Series that was ignited by that vinegar book. I rejoiced with a large cup of fresh brewed joe and a brownie I baked the night before. And, of course, my warm-hearted Australian shepherd was within arm’s reach. So, these brownies were inspired by V-Day.
 CHOCOLATE BLISS BROWNIES
½ cup European style butter
1/3 cup peanut butter
1 1/2 cups brown sugar

2 eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¼ organic chocolate milk
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Ghirardelli premium baking 100%  cocoa)
½ cup cake flour or all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ cup dark or milk chocolate chips (Ghirardelli) or a bar (small chunks)
½ walnuts, chopped (optional)
Confectioners’ sugar


Butter for greasing the pan
In a bowl, cream soft butters and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla and milk. Stir well. Add cocoa powder, flour, and baking powder. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts. Spread batter in a buttered 8” by 8” baking dish. In a 350-degree oven bake for about 30 minutes until firm to touch or use the toothpick method (it comes out clean). Cool for 10 minutes. Cut into 2” squares to make 16 brownies. Or use a Valentine shaped cookie cutter and place on brownies. It will make approximately 6-8 larger brownie squares. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
Brownie Tips: Using less flour and more baking powder plus a bit of milk makes brownies moister. If you want a decadent brownie you can frost it. Combine ¼ cup European style butter, ½ cup whipped cream cheese, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (or more for a thicker consistency). Best if beat with a mixer. Pipe on top of brownies. Place each brownie in a cupcake paper for presentation. Store in refrigerator. Served warm is bliss. Adding fresh berries make this treat more heart-healthy treat to love.

Monday, February 8, 2021

Perfection Plus -- Looking for a Ghostwriter? Hire a Popular Published Author

 By Cal Orey

Perfection Plus
Looking for a Genuine Ghostwriter?
Desperately need a gifted storyteller?
Dial-a-Muse! 
Free Basic Consultation
(A fee for reading and evaluating work) 
Available Now!
CONTACT: 
530-541-1964, COrey39184@aol.com

Stop the search. Let me create a project for you!  Fast. Reliable. Creative.

(Flexible Fees)

Word Count: 20,000 - 85,000
Self-help non-fiction books 
Memoir 
Autobiography
Cookbooks
Coffee table books
Kid's books

Flat Fee
$1599 Self-Publishing Package
$1600 light copyediting

Perfect Projects in the Past

* Health lifestyle-cookbook for a former chef 
* Humor book on global warming for a comic
* Property listings, website copy for a luxury real estate company
* Memoir for a businessman's personal life
* Biography for a well-known scientist
* Love stories from women (as told to)
* Biographies for authors John Steinbeck, Jack London 
* Speech edits for a VIP Realtor
* Humor book written for the pets' point of view
* Self-help health book for medical doctors 
* Articles for a medical school newsletter
* Crafting and developmental writing
* 2021: Historical Booklet for a Winery, Fiction Packet; Sci-fi Adventure; Romance Novella; Financial Thriller...



Cal Orey, M.A., is a health expert, food writer, on-air personality and author of The Healing Powers series, including The Healing Powers of Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Coffee, Tea, Honey, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices. 
(The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club and One Spirit Book Club, Newsmax Media (the outlet buys and promotes the series).

She has a master's degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University, and for three decades has written hundreds of articles for national and international magazines, specializing in topics such as health, beauty, nutrition, relationships, science, and pets. She has written for Woman's World, The Writer, Woman's Day, and Newsmax, featured in New York Daily, New York Post, Huffington Post, and countless online magazine websites. Currently, she is a newspaper and magazine columnist and author of the Healing Powers series.
Her website and blog calorey.com  and books at kensingtonbooks.com/author.aspx/24200.

* * *

Savvy Reasons to Use a Pen Name 

By Cal Orey


AT THE START of a writing career, your name may seem so perfect ... but as time goes by, sometimes a pen name becomes a must-have tool of the trade. And it's not just the famous writers who use one. Here's why playing the name game can be smart.

For privacy and safety. Using a pen name provides protection. If a topic is controversial or crime-related, going "undercover" may be wise. I did just that when I wrote an expose for a popular men's magazine about escort services (which provide customers with a companion for dates). I didn't want the local escorts or managers to harass me if they didn't like what I wrote about their business. So I took a double identity, just as they did, to stay out of harm's way.

To get very personal. If you want to write about something embarrassing to you, switching names is the ticket for sharing your story. Forget blushing. I wrote an intimate, first-person piece called "I fell for the guy next door" for Complete Woman magazine. By altering my name and the subject's, I got to tell my tale of woe and get paid for it.

To explore different genres. I spin many subjects, from nonfiction health to erotic fiction. In the 1980s, adult magazines for men (and women) were hot. Because I wrote from a woman's perspective, I got assignments. But I was also creating a name for myself in mainstream women's magazines. I chose an alias for the risque work, which allowed me to explore two worlds apart without offending more conservative readers or losing my writing position.

For maximum marketability. Using a pen name can make an author more noticeable, too. Jane Doe might be too plain a name to stand out next to J.K. Rowling (another pen name). "The main reason I use Lady J is because it gets more attention," says children's writer Teresa Jose of Ontario.

For pragmatic gender bending. As a rookie, I fell into technical writing. After a swarm of rejections, I sensed that my real name, Denise, was too feminine to be taken seriously. So I made a gender switch to help market articles. I chose Cal for its masculine sound, and because California is my native state. When I received my first acceptance letter addressed to Mr. Cal Orey, I knew I had chosen the right name.

To find anonymity. Using a nom de plume gives an author the freedom to keep his identity separate from work. One author who is a gambling expert maintains a low profile. If he uses his real name, he risks being blacklisted from the gaming industry. Putting a pen name to work as he does offers the best of both worlds. It's a win-win situation.

Some famous aliases:

THERE ARE many examples of pen names among famous writers. Here is a brief sampling:

Pearl Gray dropped his first name and wrote his Western novels under his middle name and with a slightly different last name, Zane Grey.

Stephen King has written four novels under the name Richard Bachman. "I did that," he explained, "because back in the early days of my career, there was a feeling in the publishing business that one book a year was all the public would accept."

Samuel Langhorne Clemens used an old riverboat term, Mark Twain, as his pen name. Often called out on deck, the phrase meant that the water was 2 fathoms, or 12 feet, deep--deep enough for safe passage.

Mary Ann Evans wrote under the name George Eliot.

Ellery Queen was actually a single name for the collaborative team of Frederick Dannay and Manfred B. Lee.
-- C.O. The Writer