Don’t Turn a Blind Eye on Double Blind

Don’t Turn a Blind Eye on Double Blind

Listen, there is nothing better than a fall night in with a page-turning mystery. Double Blind: The Icelandic Manuscript Murders is a crime, whodunit, novel packed with forensic and genetic science. But, that’s not all, it also intertwines the history and geography of Iceland. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind book that cannot be missed. So we decided to chat with Sara Winokur, a Ph.D molecular geneticist, and get the inside story on her fantastic novel.

Here is the captivating book description:

A young boy disappears in the chill of North Iceland. Twenty years later, a mysterious poem lands on the desk of his twin sister Brynja, a forensic geneticist, and rekindles her hopes that her brother might be alive. As Brynja unravels the clues, more poems arrive, each bearing dire consequences for those who receive them: the guard of the medieval manuscript of Icelandic sagas that possibly has the answer to her burning question, the prime minister’s secretary, the local pastor.

Is the poet out to stop Brynja from finding her brother and shut down her access to the DNA database? Or is the verse maker simply a psychopath copycat killer?

Fighting the visual auras that have plagued her since childhood and now threaten everything she holds dear, Brynja must summon the strength to navigate the twisted labyrinth of the poet’s mind and confront the dark secret buried in her family’s past.

“DOUBLE BLIND: The Icelandic Manuscript Murders” is a wild ride through the cultural landscape of Iceland, from rural farmsteads to icy fjords to the high-tech world of DNA forensics. This crime thriller packed with twists and turns will keep you at the edge of your seat until the very end.

Q Tell us about your book in 5 bullet points or less

Mystery-thriller about young female forensic geneticist

Total immersion in all things Iceland (grab your sweater)!

Beware of seemingly harmless plant-based foods. . .

Q Can you tell us 3 fun facts about you?

I’ve explored every continent

I have a photographic memory

I have a morbid fear of elevators (that actually isn’t fun)

Q Can you tell us 3 fun facts about your main character?

  •                She’s a DNA scientist
  •                She has a perceptual disorder called Alice in Wonderland Syndrome
  •                She never gives up

Q Where is your favorite place to write?

               Have laptop, will travel (i.e., anywhere)

Q Which celebrity would most enjoy reading your book?

               Reese Witherspoon (are you listening, Reese?)

Q What is your favorite passage of your book?

               A colony of gulls soared high above, carrying with them the last traces of the Blue Hour, that time of day when the sky meets the sea and becomes not air and water, not wind and waves, not the path of the sun nor the road of the whale, but the light in which the two become one, the light in which the past fades into the future and gives way to the present.

Q What is your dream vacation?

               Hiking in Patagonia and sleeping under the stars

Rapid Fire Questions and Answers:

Q Morning person or night owl?

Morning person

Q Netflix or Hulu?

               Hulu

Q Winter or Summer?

               Winter

Q 4th of July or Halloween?

               Halloween

Q The Library or a coffee shop?

               Coffee shop

Q High heels or sneakers?

               Sneakers

Q The ability to fly or invisibility?

               Fly

Q Margarita’s or Wine?

               Margaritas

Q Justin Timberlake or Justin Bieber?

               Timberlake

Q Coffee or tea?

               Coffee

Order your copy on Double Blind on Amazon today!

Ryan Seacrest — Show’s Return, Celebrity News, and More!

Ryan Seacrest — Show’s Return, Celebrity News, and More!

There aren’t many people in entertainment who’ve achieved the same amount of ubiquity as Ryan Seacrest. The radio and television host is known as one of the hardest working people in show business and its more than apparent from his news segments on his various different shows. This news, which often shares some of the juiciest tidbits from the lives of celebrities, has helped the host become known by many as the prototypical Hollywood insider.

That vaunted status wasn’t always the case, however. Like most, the radio and television host had to work his way up from a much more humble position. In fact, he started his life as a kid with big dreams who was living modestly in the state of Georgia. Those dreams, however, helped showcase that he might be destined for bigger things. His parents have recounted in the past how, even as a young child, he would walk around the house with a toy microphone in his hand performing for anyone who would give him a listen. Those performances soon took on a more structured tone as he would put on full “broadcasts” for his family in his living room for hours at a time.

Given that background, it’s perhaps unsurprising that the young Seacrest eventually landed an internship at a popular Atlanta radio station. At the station, he learned the finer points of broadcast radio behind seasoned on-air veterans and a team of highly-skilled production professionals. When a DJ called in sick one evening, the opportunity to fill in went to the young star in waiting. He took to the broadcast boost with gusto and not only impressed listeners and his coworkers alike, he also earned himself a regular overnight weekend spot to continue to ply his trade.

That work eventually gave him the confidence to move to Los Angeles to seek a higher-profile role in radio and television. After putting in his time bouncing from opportunity to opportunity, he finally caught his big break when he was cast as the host of American Idol. The rest, as they say, is history. He’s since blown up into one of the biggest names in both radio and television and hosts a number of long-running shows.

This success gives him a platform to connect with fans over their favorite names in entertainment and helps him realize his childhood dreams of entertaining millions of people. To better see how he accomplishes that on a daily basis, let’s take a look at some of the information he’s been sharing of late through interviews and news broadcasts.

Read More of Our Ryan Seacrest Articles on TheDishh

New quarantine questions

One of the fixtures of broadcasts by Ryan Seacrest of late has been news about quarantine. Of course, the topic is hard to avoid since the global pandemic has had such a real and sustained impact on the lives of many people. The topic is also always visible through the radio host’s broadcasts since he’s been conducting his work from his home since stay at home recommendations went into effect. As such, it has become a regular part of the host’s ongoing conversations with both his cohosts and guests on the show.

One aspect of these conversations has centered around the immediate future and how society may adapt to these temporary new norms. One topic that recently came up that’s relevant to the host’s industry is that of award shows. With the VMAs having just aired, it has spurred a deeper look into how other shows may cope with the need to avoid large gatherings of people. The VMA approach, to go virtual, seems likely to be the way most other shows will handle the question as award season kicks into gear.

Another interesting aspect of how the VMAs have handled recent developments is the spotlight the award show has placed on quarantine-specific accomplishments. While the show continued with its more traditional awards, such as Artist of the Year, it also added multiple awards that touched on how artists have handled their time in quarantine. These awards included Best Music Video From Home and Best Quarantine Performance.

Effect on the Oscars

These awards have sparked conversations about how other shows might incorporate aspects of quarantine into their own recognitions. The Oscars have been a particular point of focus in this regard. Likely to also follow a virtual broadcast format, the storied award ceremony may be breaking with tradition in at least one other key way. All indications point to the fact that this will be the first year that a film may be able to skip a theatrical release entirely and still be eligible for an award.

The rule change is likely to only be in place for this year and will only apply to films that previously had planned for a theatrical release. Still, the change marks a historic first for the award show and has provoked talk of how it might affect the future of the show. Some industry professionals have begun to wonder if films that have been released only to streaming platforms might well deserve to be considered amongst others who have had a traditional theatrical release. Depending on how the show goes, there may be changes in store for one of the biggest awards in show business.

Hawaii considering new measures

Of course, the effects of the global pandemic have extended far beyond the confines of the entertainment industry. One way this has manifested is through each state’s individual response to handling those who pass through its borders. For most states, these considerations come from people entering not only via air travel but also along highways and other forms of ground transportation. However, Hawaii is in the somewhat unique position of being accessible primarily by air travel and also being a traditional hotspot of travelers coming and going. 

These two facts have put the state in a tough spot when it comes to its pandemic precautions. On one hand, the state has a built-in method of tracking people who come and go through its borders by tracking air travel. This has allowed the state to implement strict procedures for those who enter from outside its borders. 

This was discussed recently by Ryan Seacrest and his cohosts on his radio show. One of his cohosts noted that, up until now, Hawaii has had a policy of requiring travelers to quarantine for 14 days in their hotel room before being allowed to move about the state. The cohost recounted that this has meant that some hotels have even gone so far as to make room keys deactivate should a guest leave their room.

Obviously, these restrictions have been tough to maintain and have put a severe dent in the tourism industry that typically plays a large role in the state’s economy. So, state officials are now considering a new method to allow travelers to enter the islands but still maintain a focus on public safety. 

This has spawned the development of a new method for addressing tourism known as a “resort bubble”. Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami spoke on this idea during a recent news briefing. ”At a certain point, we need to learn to co-exist with this virus and the EMQ or ‘resort bubble’ is just one step in the staged approach for a broader opening of travel,” said Kawakami.

The resort bubble concept would allow visitors to pass their 14-day quarantine period in a larger space than just a hotel room. It would instead give guests free rein to roam about the grounds of a resort, allowing them to spend time outside and enjoy the scenery as long as they do not leave the resort’s boundaries. To participate in the program, visitors would have to consent to electronic monitoring of their whereabouts along with tracking of key health data. The idea is still in the conceptual phase, with no word yet on if or when it will be implemented, but it goes to show how seemingly all areas of life have been affected by the emergence of this pandemic.

Restaurant tips

One more piece of quarantine news is worth discussing before moving onto other topics since it recently came up on the radio host’s show and touches on an issue of public safety — eating at restaurants. Ryan Seacrest and his cohosts discussed the topic to give listeners some indication of how safe eating establishments are these days. The answer? According to health officials, still not completely safe.

As recounted by the radio host, it appears that many health officials are noting that, while steps to make outdoor dining safer have come a long way, it’s still a risk to dine at an establishment, even if you’re outside. The host noted how those officials have passed on information that particles of the coronavirus can remain in the air for up to 30 minutes after an infected individual has been in the vicinity.

That means that official recommendations are to still rely on take-out if you’re in a high-risk group — those over 65 or those with a preexisting medical condition. While this can be disappointing news for individuals who are anxious to move past quarantine restrictions, the recommendations are being made with public health in mind.

Live with Kelly and Ryan Returns

While much of life remains strangely at odds with normalcy during these trying times, there are plans for the reemergence of one familiar sight from pre-Covid life. Live with Kelly and Ryan is returning for its 33rd season, and it looks like the season will be filmed live in-studio. Set to premiere on September 7th, the show’s first episode will be a celebratory cookout in recognition of labor day.

The reemergence of Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest in a studio will be a welcome sight for many, as the show’s previous season had been filming from quarantine for months. Ripa had been filming from her quarantine in the Caribbean with her family while Seacrest has been broadcasting from his home in Los Angeles. Now the two will be reunited in person and are excited to be hosting a slew of new guests on their show and taking a small step towards getting us back to our lives as they were before the pandemic.

Perry and Bloom announce baby

Speaking of getting back to a bit of normalcy, there’s arguably no better way to remind us that there’s a world outside our little bubble than to hear about the addition of a new baby into it. Such was the case when Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom recently announced the birth of their first child — Daisy Dove Bloom. The radio host’s website recently shared the news which was made through a social media posting by Unicef.

The choice of social media outlet helps to shine some light on a good cause amidst the joy of the moment. As Goodwill Ambassadors for the charity, the choice was apropos. Along with an artful black and white photo of the newborn holding hands with her parents, the post included some touching words to help bring some social impact along with the occasion.

“Not everyone can have a birthing experience as peaceful as ours was,” read the words of the couple via the post. “Communities around the world are still experiencing a shortage of healthcare workers and every eleven seconds a pregnant woman or newborn dies, mostly from preventable causes. Since COVID-19 many more newborn lives are at risk because of the increased lack of access to water, soap, vaccines, and medicines that prevent diseases. As parents to a newborn, this breaks our hearts, as we empathize with struggling parents now more than ever.”

The couple went on to provide followers with an opportunity to donate to the organization to help address the shortfall in access to adequate healthcare for pregnant women and children.

“As UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, we know UNICEF is there, on the ground, doing whatever it takes to make sure every expecting mother has access to a trained health worker and access to quality healthcare. In celebration of the heart we know our daughter already has, we have set up a donation page to celebrate DDB’s arrival. By supporting them, you are supporting a safe start to life and reimagining a healthier world for every child. We hope your ♥️ can bloom with generosity.”

Here’s a link to the campaign, for those interested in donating.

Zac Efron Down to Earth

In another bit of news focused on entertainment professionals making a difference in the world, Ryan Seacrest recently took to time to discuss Zac Efron’s new documentary series — Down to Earth. The topic came up on the show when his cohost tried to educate the radio host on the star’s newest endeavor.

During the discussion, Seacrest’s cohost relayed how the show follows Efron’s worldwide travels in search of healthy and sustainable ways to live. Over the course of the show, he talks with environmental experts, culinary artists, and a variety of other professionals who are deeply connected to the planet and the future of humanity.

While the radio host was initially skeptical about the High School Musical star taking the new career turn, he was eventually intrigued. That sentiment has been shared by critics across the world who have had much to say about the new show. With the series’ propensity for taking the viewer to new and exotic places, there’s a certain joy to be found in sharing the journey with its host, according to many. That the project is undertaken with a focus on conservation and finding innovative approaches to safeguarding the planet is just one more aspect that makes it an enticing watch.

The show is available to stream on Netflix and is fast becoming a welcome distraction for viewers seeking a way to escape the monotony of life inside.

Cardi B talks about her shyness

One last topic of note helps to showcase the manner in which Ryan Seacrest is able to connect with stars and share their humanity with fans. In this case, the host was talking with musical artist Cardi B about her tendency towards being shy. The conversation came about as she was discussing her experience meeting Megan Three Stallion, the collaborator on her new hit, WAP.

“Our stylists linked us up,” the musical artist recounted. “They were like, ‘You guys got to get together… You girls got to link up.’ And I was like ‘I know. You know I’m shy.’ And he was like, ‘You’ve got to get off that box and people need to get to know you.’ … And that’s exactly what we did. We linked up and we had a good time. … And then we started sending records to each other and she got on it and I was like, ‘Oh, man!’ … From there on we just worked hand-in-hand.”

That work eventually blossomed into a full-scale collaboration between the two artists. WAP debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 earlier this month and has already made a notable impact on the charts. The two artists enter the history books as the first female rap duo to debut at the top spot. It’s a formidable accomplishment made all the more human by the shy first meeting shared by the two artists.

Author J.M. Kelly has Published the Next Big Mystery Series For All Ages

Author J.M. Kelly has Published the Next Big Mystery Series For All Ages

After working with school aged kids for the last 35 years, J.M. Kelly wrote the next big book series for children and young adults. The Bobby Homes Mystery Series is the Harry Potter for the next generation. The first book, The Lost Treasure, and the second book, Monster on the Moors are available now. Readers can’t get enough and compare it to Sherlock Holmes meets Stranger Things.

As one reviewer says, ” “This book was creepy and thrilling and totally enthralling. I felt like I was there in person and shivered multiple times though out reading this book. Kelly does an amazing job setting the scene and making this world seem real. Couldn’t get enough.” — Erin Haggerty, NetGalley

Here’s more about J.M. Kelly in our exclusive interview:

Q. If you could give your book to one celebrity, who would it be and why?

A. An obvious choice would be Stephen King, for he is the master of the macabre. But, as I often see a strong correlation between books and film when I read, I’d like to provide a copy to Guillermo Del Toro, Sam Raimi, and Jordan Peale, all of whom bring horror to life in unique ways.

Q. Who is your biggest writing inspiration?

A. My wife, hands down. For the sole reason of her unequivocal support.

Q. Give us the scoop about your book.

A. Monster on the Moors is a horror thriller that takes place in the eerie North York Moors of England. Clairvoyant Bobby Holmes, his American cousin Brenda Watson, and their friends, wise guy Stevie and Michael (who is challenged by Asperger Syndrome), are drawn into a deadly mystery. They are hunted by an ancient wolf creature controlled by evil witches of British lore. When one of their friends is captured, they must rely on the investigations of a librarian who is more than he seems, the mystical gifts of a gypsy king, a mysterious stranger at the center of it all, and their own wits in a desperate race to save their friend and come out alive.

Q. Can you tell us three fun facts about you?

J.M. Kelly

A. I’m the second oldest of ten children. I spent 35 years in education as a middle school teacher and a school Principal. I started my writing career after my education career and have since written three novels and one professional book.

Q. If your book was turned into a film/TV show, who would you tap to play the lead(s)? Why?

A. Not my call and wouldn’t have a clue. I’d leave that to the professionals, although I’d have to say, Tom Cruise as Jack Reacher was a huge mistake.

Q. What’s one secret about you that you’ll share with the world?

A. I sustained a spinal cord injury at the age of 37 that left me an incomplete quad. Nonetheless, I received the NJ State Principal and Supervisor’s award for Principal of the Year for Inspirational Leadership in 2007, and have enjoyed my entire writing career since.

Q. What is the core message you want to deliver to the world through your writing/books/stories?

A. Never give up and respect and enjoy our differences. Another important message is to suffer the children…they know stuff adults long ago closed their eyes to.

Rapid Fire Questions and Answers

Q. Morning person or night owl?

A. Morning person, always.

Q. Reading or writing?

A. Reading, you need it to be a good writer.

Q. Kittens or puppies?

A. Dogs, dogs, dogs


Q. The city or the country?

A. Country.


Q. Road trip or Cruise ship?

A. Road trip, for the possibilities.

Q. Wine or beer?


A. Wine.


Q. Karaoke or bowling?

A. Neither.


Q. The ability to fly or invisibility?

A. Flying.

Q. Selfie or group photo?

A. Group, more fun.


Q. Love story or scary story?

A. Scary all the way.


Q. Bacon or Tofu?

A. Is that even a choice? Bacon.

The Cheeky Bilal Alaji Tells All

The Cheeky Bilal Alaji Tells All

The fun, inspirational and multi-talented Bilal Alaji has written his own memoir to share with the world. With it he hopes to help those struggling to find their path, give guidance and reassurance that any situation can be changed by declaring “This Ain’t My Life”. Bilal’s story keeps the page turning, find out how he manages all of life’s obstacles.

Q. If you could give your book to one celebrity, who would it be and why?

     I would give my book to Iyanla Vanzant because she deals with therapeutic methods to heal people who have experienced trauma’s in their lives. My book This Ain’t My Life would be a great compliment to her show “Fix My Life”. It would be amazing for me to work with her helping people by sharing from a males perspective.

Q. Who is your biggest writing inspiration?

     I have been moved by many books and authors throughout the years but I think the book that had the biggest impact on me in my impressionable years was the Autobiography of Malcolm X written by Alex Haley. This book was my introduction to a fascinating world of literary exposition.  This book melted into the fiber of my being, giving me purpose to define my destiny.

Q. If could give your book to one singer/musician, who would it be and why?

     I would give it to Alicia Keys. She has amazing vocal talent and the ability to see beyond the words. With her musical talent she would transform the book into a musical right away allowing me to see and understand my story in a completely different context.

Q. If your book was turned into a film/TV show, who would you tap to play the lead(s)? Why?

     I’m not sure there is anyone who could play the lead as good as I can. So, I’m going to have to nominate myself for the lead on this role. Eminem played the lead in his movie debut Eight Mile, centered around his life. My religious and musical background makes me a unique character to play, a challenge I’d rather take on myself.

Q. What’s one secret about you that you’ll share with the world?

Bilal Alaji

     My left butt cheek is larger than my right— just kidding. I have a great sense of humor. Those closest to me state that I should have been a stand up comedian. My humor has been my saving grace throughout the years. It has also acted as a buffer when tensions are running high. I now know that the humorous side of me is a skill set that I don’t take for granted.

Q. What is the core message you want to deliver to the world through your writing/books/stories?

     I want those who read my book to know that there is something great lying dormant inside of them. Never give up on yourself, never give up on your dreams, and never give up on your ambitions. It is through your darkest moments that you will find victory. Keep believing in YOU.

Q. Give us the scoop on your book.

      The book chronicles my life as a Black Muslim who was lead down an arduous path by my father. I had aspirations of being a recording artist that was shattered by life altering events. I remained diligent in my passion to pursue my dreams, however, I became a husband and parent at a young age. This would lead me through a web of drama, betrayal, depression, and confusion. As I try to shake to web to find some sort of normalcy, I was too deep entangled, losing myself, my dreams, and my ambition. I found hope through my faith. I began the process of transformation for the life that I’ve always dreamed of. I continued to remind myself that, This Ain’t My Life. It was because of this mantra that I was able to redefine who I was and find my divine purpose.

Rapid Fire Questions and Answers

Q. Morning person or night owl?

A. Most definitely a night owl. I have no problem burning the midnight oil. During late hours are when I receive the most inspiration

Q. Reading or writing?

A. Both. This is a tie. I love to read just as much as I love writing.

Q. Kittens or puppies?

A. I’m a cat lover. Actually, I’m an animal lover, so tie again.

Q. The beach or the mountains?

A. I love the beach. I do mountains too but beach wins this one.

Q. Road trip or Cruise ship?

A. Cruise ship. I have done several cruises as well as road trips. I think I enjoy being pampered and not having to work at all.

Q. Tea or coffee?

A. I’m a tea man. Tea all the way baby!

Q. Karaoke or bowling?

A. Both. I love being active and I’m also extremely competitive.

Q. The ability to fly or mind reading?

A. Mind reading. This will make for such a powerful weapon— I mean skill set.

Q. Selfie or group photo?

A. Group photo. I guess I have all the time in the world to take pics of myself.

Q. E.L. James or J.K. Rowling?

A. J.K. Rowling. She is an absolute beast with her imagination.