Friday, February 5, 2016
My Reviews: The Handmaid's Tale
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood is unlike anything I've ever read (heard.) The Claire Danes narrated audiobook can best be described as a dystopian futuristic warning wrapped in poetry and imagery. It is a beautifully dark told story from the point of view of a woman set in this future who has memory of the world before and after its dramatic change. Told in a train of thought narrative, she reveals through her own experience how women all over the US were swept up in Puritan Regime under the guise of making them safer and protecting them from inherent faults of men. Suddenly, women who once were educated, employed, and with hopes and goals were gathered together and "re-educated" into new traditional roles of wife and caretakers. But in this world, the roles of wife, homemaker, and childbearer have become separated, especially among the richer, more prominent men as a result of a rising rate of infertility and stillbirths due to the chemicals and pollutants from the world before. Not allowed to read, write, or even to speak freely, those women forced to wear red, The Handmaids, are now valued for little more than their bodies.Their sole purpose is to produce children for the families of the Commanders. The narrator draws the reader (listener) into the story immediately and the suspense only builds from there. The most frightening part of it all is that it is told so well, that you can almost believe it to be a true possible future. Thanks to this audiobook, I could not wait for my commute to and from work each day.
Friday, January 23, 2015
My Reviews: Seed (Keepers of Genesis Part 1)
My Reviews: SEED: Keepers of Genesis Part I
I downloaded this book as part of the #IndieBooksBeSeen Book Club's Group Read for
the month if January. It was a quick, enjoyable read, mostly done while
on vacation this week. here are my spoiler-free thoughts - Honestly, the
prologue almost discouraged me from continuing the novel further. I did
not enjoy the omnipotent POV and worried the entire book would follow
suit. Thankfully, it did not, and I continued on in hopes of finding
something more based on the book blurb and positive reviews. I did find
the first person POV of Sage Woods to be mostly, shall we say
"refreshing?" In general, I felt her voice to be believable and
age-appropriate overall. I enjoyed that she was an intelligent,
educated, well-traveled woman and that her inner voice mostly reflected
that but did not ignore the fact that she was also a 17 year old girl
newly graduated from high school finding herself in an uncomfortable
predicament against her will. I appreciated the multitude of literary,
musical, art, biblical, and historic and even cinema references
throughout. The research of this novel is amazing. Granted, I have not
fact checked much of what was written so I am taking it at face value
that at least some of it is historically accurate, and it certainly felt
so while reading it. *******MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD***********
Essentially, Seed tells the story of Sage Woods, daughter of a world renowned archeologist, who finds herself suddenly sucked into a world of Fallen Angels, powerful forces. and ancient mysteries where she must take on a key role in order to essentially protect the world from evil that most humans know nothing about, all while also finding herself madly in love with the irresistible half-man/half-angel sworn to protect her. To her surprise, she finds that he shares those feelings despite his better judgement.
Specific things that I loved:
-The Twins - I found Sage and Saffron to be interesting, unique, developed characters whom I am excited to read more about
-I loved that Sage didn't seem to enjoy or endorse the "Damsel in Distress" role, and continually challenged the older men around her to see her as an equal and a partner
-As mentioned before, I enjoyed the multitude of literary references, finding many a bit-tongue-in cheek, especially those referring to other well known PNR couples and fantasy worlds, especially as I noted many parallels in Seed and some of these other stories - the immortal being finding himself inexplicably in love with the clumsy, much-too-young, plain-Jane who he later learns possesses unique "gifts" and becomes her sworn protector, even at risk of his own life all while fighting against his incredible physical desires for her and his own angsty self-hatred
Things I found difficult:
-the immediacy of the attraction between Sage and St. John bothered me... not the concept, mind you. I can handle the concept of immediate "love at first sight/soul mates/bonded lovers etc, but I wasn't sold that that was what was behind this relationship. To me, it all felt most like a school girl crush between a that high school nerd and the college-aged new guy in town
-I found "clumsiness" flaw to be bit too cliche and cringed with every trip, wobble, swoon, and faint
-Okay, I get the St John is ridiculously attractive with his imposing height, muscular build, luscious tanned skin and golden curled locks cut just so, but enough already! Must she really mention it on every other page?
-St John's speech patterns are recurrently referred to as being unique and somewhat timeless, and yet most of his dialogue, other than the times he is quoting someone else, seemed anything but that.
-I do not believe a highly educated, fairly wealthy man such as Sage's father, with clear expectations that his daughter would obtain a advanced education and use her knowledge and skills would so willingly "bless" the engagement of his 17 year old daughter to his much older colleague after only two months time in the 21st Century, even with the multitude of stipulations placed on that blessing. Equally, what 17 year old girl with those goals suddenly does a total 180* flip in priorities after just a few weeks? I mean, I appreciate that the man is half-Angel, gorgeous, smart, ridiculously wealthy and well connected, but to go from never-been-kissed to Forever-and-ever in such a short time seemed difficult for me to wrap my thoughts around. Add to that the strong possibility that said relationship and children from said relationship could be potentially life-ending, seems like a crazy commitment and against that character of Sage Woods which was so carefully crafted earlier in the story.
-Can we say WTF to the abruptness of the ending? I felt annoyance when I reached the ending and found that Part II is not even yet available. Guess I should have looked into that prior to spending the >$4 to purchase it. My own fault really.
*** SPOILERS OVER! ***
So in the end, would I recommend this book? Definitely - to those folks who like a romantic twist to their Urban Fantasy/Paranormal mystery/thrillers. It was a fast, engrossing read with a unique plot line - a bit like Angel and Demons/Da Vince Code meets Twilight. But be warned - Part II and Part III are not yet available!
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
AFTER CHRISTMAS FILL YOUR KINDLE SALE - $0.99
Enjoy this special opportunity to get these wonderful titles for only $0.99 each Dec 26-Jan 1. Beyond the Reach of Judgement is included. Click above for the link for further details.
Please share. Thank you for the support.
Sunday, December 14, 2014
My Writing: Why I Love Being Indie
Why I Love Being Indie
It comes down to one thing - control. I wanted to maintain complete control of each part of the process of creating my novel, from first draft to final product. I did my own research, did my first preliminary edits, found my wonderfully insightful beta-readers, auditioned and hired my own quick and thorough editor, selected my own amazing cover designer and final beautiful cover design, found a formatter who quickly and effectively formatted my novel in unique EPUB, MOBI, and CreateSpace ready formats, and sought out my first generous reviewers.
By maintaining control then I know if I am successful, I deserve the credit, and if things don't work out the way I would like, I only have myself to blame. I will not worry about others' decisions interfering with my vision, and as someone who writes primarily for the joy of having a creative outlet, I wouldn't want it any other way,
Read more thoughts about Being Indie at A Spark in the Dark:
https://clrozelle.wordpress.
It comes down to one thing - control. I wanted to maintain complete control of each part of the process of creating my novel, from first draft to final product. I did my own research, did my first preliminary edits, found my wonderfully insightful beta-readers, auditioned and hired my own quick and thorough editor, selected my own amazing cover designer and final beautiful cover design, found a formatter who quickly and effectively formatted my novel in unique EPUB, MOBI, and CreateSpace ready formats, and sought out my first generous reviewers.
By maintaining control then I know if I am successful, I deserve the credit, and if things don't work out the way I would like, I only have myself to blame. I will not worry about others' decisions interfering with my vision, and as someone who writes primarily for the joy of having a creative outlet, I wouldn't want it any other way,
Read more thoughts about Being Indie at A Spark in the Dark:
https://clrozelle.wordpress.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
My Reviews: Birdman
Warning, minor spoilers ahead.
Birdman (the unexpected virtue of ignorance)
Riggan Thomas (played by Michael Keaton) was once a major celebrity as the start of a major Hollywood Blockbuster Superhero Trilogy, Birdman. His films grossed millions at the box office and became part of a multi-billion dollar franchise that could have made several more films and billions of more dollars had he chosen to continue, but feeling type cast and stuck in a he turns down the opportunity to do Birdman 4. The film finds him twenty years later, in a world where relevancy seems to be judged on social media likes and viral videos hits, than talent so Riggan turns to the Broadway stage to find himself. He writes, directs, stars, and seemingly personally finances a play based on a short story written by Raymond Carver "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love."
The plot continues in a strange dark comedy featuring Riggan's recovery drug addict daughter, Sam (Emma Stone), his girlfriend and fellow actress Laura (Andrea Riseborough), his lawyer/producer/best-friend, Jake (Zach Galifianakus) the insecure ingenue Lesley (Naomi Watts), and bad-boy Broadway veteran Mike (Edward Norton). The twist of this film is an art imitating life imitating art imitating life sort of moment as the reality of everything starts to become clear - or does it? Just when you think you've got everyone figured out, you are left with a sense of doubt and then it's over.
Overall, I found this film to be intriguing and tongue-in-cheek look at the world of Hollywood and the ever changing idea of fame, stardom, celebrity and true talent. An authentic chemistry existed amongst the entire cast drawing you into their crazy, raw, complicated world. I found the casting of a former Batman, to be especially clever given the plot and Emma Stone's performance as his daughter to be strangely perfect. I'd recommend this film and expect it to see some buzz in the upcoming award season.
Birdman (the unexpected virtue of ignorance)
The plot continues in a strange dark comedy featuring Riggan's recovery drug addict daughter, Sam (Emma Stone), his girlfriend and fellow actress Laura (Andrea Riseborough), his lawyer/producer/best-friend, Jake (Zach Galifianakus) the insecure ingenue Lesley (Naomi Watts), and bad-boy Broadway veteran Mike (Edward Norton). The twist of this film is an art imitating life imitating art imitating life sort of moment as the reality of everything starts to become clear - or does it? Just when you think you've got everyone figured out, you are left with a sense of doubt and then it's over.
Overall, I found this film to be intriguing and tongue-in-cheek look at the world of Hollywood and the ever changing idea of fame, stardom, celebrity and true talent. An authentic chemistry existed amongst the entire cast drawing you into their crazy, raw, complicated world. I found the casting of a former Batman, to be especially clever given the plot and Emma Stone's performance as his daughter to be strangely perfect. I'd recommend this film and expect it to see some buzz in the upcoming award season.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
NaNoWriMo 2014!
It's that time of year again. It's time to forget your hobbies, your family, your pets, and to wish you could forget your job. It's time to write over 1000 words a day and still feel like inadequate. It's time to become so engrossed in your writing, that all other goals get set aside. It is time for National Novel Writing Month.
This year I really want to win. While I've participated three years in the past and accomplished a lot of worthwhile writing, I've never technically "won" by achieving the 50K words that is the goal. This year, I want that to change. So I've plotted and thought and planned and done just about everything short of starting my project.
What is my project? If all goes as planned, I will be working on a sequel to Beyond the Reach of Judgement. Of course, anyone who has done NaNoWriMo in the past knows that things don't always go as planned. Sometimes things take on a life of their own in November, but as of this moment my current project looks something like this: (SPOILER ALERT for those who haven't read Beyond the Reach of Judgement)
"...the story of Ruth 25 years after the loss of Julien, as she comes to grips with her new life and new role in the world and of Agent Wolf as she nears retirement from the Department of Homeland Security's paranormal unit. Wolf is assigned to one final mission and discovers a strange sense of déjà vu after she finds herself again in Kansas City, MO dealing with dead prostitutes and chasing vampires, and Ruth seeks answers to her draw back to the city where she and Julien first met."
Thoughts?
This year I really want to win. While I've participated three years in the past and accomplished a lot of worthwhile writing, I've never technically "won" by achieving the 50K words that is the goal. This year, I want that to change. So I've plotted and thought and planned and done just about everything short of starting my project.
What is my project? If all goes as planned, I will be working on a sequel to Beyond the Reach of Judgement. Of course, anyone who has done NaNoWriMo in the past knows that things don't always go as planned. Sometimes things take on a life of their own in November, but as of this moment my current project looks something like this: (SPOILER ALERT for those who haven't read Beyond the Reach of Judgement)
"...the story of Ruth 25 years after the loss of Julien, as she comes to grips with her new life and new role in the world and of Agent Wolf as she nears retirement from the Department of Homeland Security's paranormal unit. Wolf is assigned to one final mission and discovers a strange sense of déjà vu after she finds herself again in Kansas City, MO dealing with dead prostitutes and chasing vampires, and Ruth seeks answers to her draw back to the city where she and Julien first met."
Thoughts?
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Sunday, October 12, 2014
My Favorites: Amazon Prime
Hello Again. Today's post is all about my love for my Amazon Prime Membership. So, if you already have Amazon Prime, you can stop reading because you already know how awesome the 2 Day Free Shipping, instant view TV and movies, instant listen music catalog, and free Kindle downloads are. If you don't have Amazon Prime, however, (are there still some of you out there?), let me continue to tell you why you should consider it.
My husband and I have moved three times in the last six years. As those of you whom have moved recently know, with each move comes different wants and "needs" for the new home and often as limited budget in which to obtain those needs, especially early on. Sometimes these are minor things like picture frames and wall hangings, and sometimes these are larger, more prominent things like shelving, end tables, etc. What is great about my Prime Membership is that it doesn't matter it I am ordering dust cloths or a vacuum cleaner, it ships for free in two days (sometimes even less). Because of this, I often find myself price comparing and reading reviews of products I find locally, on Amazon before I commit to a purchase. If I find the deal better locally, and the reviews don't hate it, I feel good with my purchase. If not, since I prefer to shop/spend locally when possible, I mention the Amazon price to the local retailer. Some retailers will attempt to price match or at least come closer to the Amazon price. I've got some incredible deals this way and gotten to keep my money local which I love.
Sometimes, despite trying my best to find what I want locally, it just isn't possible. These are the times when I especially love my Prime Membership. So many times, after hours of hunting in stores, I log on the Amazon and find exactly what I am seeking at a great price AND it will ship to me for free. I have purchases so many things this way - specialty shampoos, skin care and makeup products, artwork, poster frames, end tables, bar stools, bedding, bed frame, cat toys/supplies, green cleaning supplies, shelving, closet storage/organizers, a grill, an electric lawnmower, hard to find BluRays, and music.
Personally, I don't use the instant video often, but I have used it for things like work-out videos and those times when I just "have-to" see a certain movie that I don't own. I love that I can watch on my big screen TV, computer, tablet, and phone. I've also started to enjoy the Music benefit. My work-out music library is growing steadily thanks to Amazon Prime Music. Now, if only my gym membership had a Prime discount...
Finally, as an Indie Author, I find the benefit of the Kindle Lending Library to be amazing. I can support other Indie Authors, and find great reads on my Kindle for Free!
Shop Amazon - Give the Gift of Amazon Prime
Join Amazon Prime - Watch Over 40,000 Movies & TV Shows Anytime; Get 2 Day Free Shipping on products you Love; and so much more - Start Free Trial Now
My husband and I have moved three times in the last six years. As those of you whom have moved recently know, with each move comes different wants and "needs" for the new home and often as limited budget in which to obtain those needs, especially early on. Sometimes these are minor things like picture frames and wall hangings, and sometimes these are larger, more prominent things like shelving, end tables, etc. What is great about my Prime Membership is that it doesn't matter it I am ordering dust cloths or a vacuum cleaner, it ships for free in two days (sometimes even less). Because of this, I often find myself price comparing and reading reviews of products I find locally, on Amazon before I commit to a purchase. If I find the deal better locally, and the reviews don't hate it, I feel good with my purchase. If not, since I prefer to shop/spend locally when possible, I mention the Amazon price to the local retailer. Some retailers will attempt to price match or at least come closer to the Amazon price. I've got some incredible deals this way and gotten to keep my money local which I love.
Sometimes, despite trying my best to find what I want locally, it just isn't possible. These are the times when I especially love my Prime Membership. So many times, after hours of hunting in stores, I log on the Amazon and find exactly what I am seeking at a great price AND it will ship to me for free. I have purchases so many things this way - specialty shampoos, skin care and makeup products, artwork, poster frames, end tables, bar stools, bedding, bed frame, cat toys/supplies, green cleaning supplies, shelving, closet storage/organizers, a grill, an electric lawnmower, hard to find BluRays, and music.
Personally, I don't use the instant video often, but I have used it for things like work-out videos and those times when I just "have-to" see a certain movie that I don't own. I love that I can watch on my big screen TV, computer, tablet, and phone. I've also started to enjoy the Music benefit. My work-out music library is growing steadily thanks to Amazon Prime Music. Now, if only my gym membership had a Prime discount...
Finally, as an Indie Author, I find the benefit of the Kindle Lending Library to be amazing. I can support other Indie Authors, and find great reads on my Kindle for Free!
Shop Amazon - Give the Gift of Amazon Prime
Join Amazon Prime - Watch Over 40,000 Movies & TV Shows Anytime; Get 2 Day Free Shipping on products you Love; and so much more - Start Free Trial Now
Friday, October 3, 2014
My Favorites: My Mattress
My Favorites: Saatva Luxury Firm Mattress
Several months ago, my husband and I decided to upgrade to a king size mattress to complete our master suite retreat. Our previous mattress was a Keetsa Pillow Plus with which we were happy, and at the time we purchased it, it was the perfect choice based on price, ease of shipping and set up. We chose it also because compared to most mattresses, they more eco-friendly and compared to most organic mattresses, they were much more affordable. We bought the Pillow Plus.
This year, when we decided it was time to upgrade, we stumbled upon the Saatva company while research made in USA, eco-friendly mattresses. We've had this mattress for five months now and are extremely happy. The Luxury firm is the best of all worlds. A soft topper with a firm support beneath. Great for back sleeping, side sleeping, and stomach sleeping (from personal experience with all of the above) If you do the research, you will find this mattress is the best reviewed on Google, and has rave reviews on many mattress related blogs, websites, and consumer sites. And they deliver it not just to your door, but to you bedroom!
From their website:
"The standard comfort level used in the finest hotels in the world, where their goal is to ensure every guest gets a great night sleep. "Luxury Firm" offers the perfect balance of "cushion firm and contouring support". This assures proper spinal alignment with our premium foam cushion layers for the ultimate and most comfortable sleep experience. Whether you sleep on your side, back or stomach, you will be very happy with this comfort level. It is a true medium firm. It's not too hard or too soft. The "Luxury Firm", is rated the "#1 comfort choice" in the ultra premium mattress classification.
Choose Luxury Firm:
- If you prefer to sleep on your side, back or stomach.
- It’s the perfect mattress for couples with different sleep needs.
- If you are looking for the Goldilocks bed. Not too firm. Not too soft.
- If you switch sleeping positions often in the night.
- If you are looking for the luxury hotel experience at home."
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Time for some changes
After much thought and research, I've decided to take this blog in a bit of a different direction. As most people, I have a wide variety of interests and aspirations. Therefore, this blog will become a focal point of those interests and goals. It will not only be a place for me to post updates on my writing, but a place for me to share other things I enjoy, my travels, and other projects I undertake.
Stay tuned for:
-My Favorites
-My Travels
-My Writing
-My Reviews
-My Ramblings
-My Recipes
-My Hauls
Thoughts?
Stay tuned for:
-My Favorites
-My Travels
-My Writing
-My Reviews
-My Ramblings
-My Recipes
-My Hauls
Thoughts?
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
BookCrossing Adventure
Hello Friends. Sorry for the silence. It's been a busy couple of weeks. The blog tour went well, and I thank all of those who participated and supported me.
I recently decided to release some of my paperback books "into the wild" in hopes that some folks may stumble upon them and perhaps enjoy and share. Iowa City, being a very literary city, just so happens to have a multitude of little free libraries (http://littlefreelibrary.org/). I decided these would be an ideal place to release a few copies. With the help of IDs from BookCrossing (http://www.bookcrossing.com/), I hope to be able to track them on their adventures. Hopefully, everyone will play along and log the books if they pick them up.
Time will tell.
I recently decided to release some of my paperback books "into the wild" in hopes that some folks may stumble upon them and perhaps enjoy and share. Iowa City, being a very literary city, just so happens to have a multitude of little free libraries (http://littlefreelibrary.org/). I decided these would be an ideal place to release a few copies. With the help of IDs from BookCrossing (http://www.bookcrossing.com/), I hope to be able to track them on their adventures. Hopefully, everyone will play along and log the books if they pick them up.
Time will tell.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Upcoming Blog Tour 6/30-7/07
Please join me for a one week online blog tour featuring interviews, guest blogs, reviews, spotlight stops, and a Giveaway. Thank you for the support.
June 30 Interview
A Writer's Mind
www.skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com
June 30 Spotlight
Shut Up & Read
http://shutupandreadgroup.blogspot.com/
July 1 Guest blog
Aly @ Aly's Miscellany
http://alysmiscellany.blogspot.com/
July 2 Interview
Pembroke Sinclair.
www.pembrokesinclair.blogspot.com
July 3 Review
Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock
www.pratr.wordpress.com
July 4 Spotlight
Tattooed Book Review
www.tattooedbookreview.com
July 7 Guest blog
Fang-tastic Books
www.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com
July 7 Spotlight
Angel’s Guilty Pleasures
http://angelsguiltypleasures.com
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Excerpt of "Curse of an Angel"
Hello - today I would like to share a recently written (yet unedited and rough draft) excerpt from my new urban fantasy project - Curse of an Angel.
Before she could do anything to interfere, the man stood tall on the base of the statue stretching his body to its full length to reach his lips up to the face of the Angel. "Nooo!" She screamed but the man's body collapsed onto the stone slab. Running as fast as she could towards him, she pulled back her mask and rolled up her sleeves. She climbed onto the slab and reached for the man's neck. "No pulse. Dammit," she whispered. After glancing around the darkness and finding nothing but the tombstones, she reached down and positioned herself over the man's chest. She started chest compressions as she prayed.
Even thoough her mind begged her not to, her eyes drifted to the lifeless face of the man beneath her. She paused as recognition flashed through her. "Ivan? What the hell?"
Reminding herself he would die if she stopped, she resumed her desperate compressions. "Why? Why?" Tears built behind her eyes even though she had only met the boy once. She'd never had to encounter a familiar face during her work before. "You will not die on me, Ivan. I demand it. Wake up, you fool."
As her arms began to burn and tremble, she heard a gasp as she felt resistance in the lungs inflated beneath her palms. As she pulled back, his hands grasped hers. With eyes wide and wild, he sat up peering blankly into the darkness.
"Oh thank God."
"I...knew...it," Ivan mumbled.
"Knew what?"
"You are..." He pointed between the statue and her.
"I have no idea what you are talking about."
"Don't be...don't lie."
"You should go to the hospital. I'm calling an ambulance."
"No. No, I'm fine."
"A minute ago you were dead. You are not fine."
"I'm alive now. Thank you." He gave her a weak seeming half smile.
"What the hell did you think you were doing anyway."
"I didn't think anything would happen. I don't.. I mean, I didn't believe any of it. I was only hoping to find you."
She pulled her hands free from his. "You really are a fool."
He grabbed his chest and gasped. "Argh."
"Oh, God, I'm so sorry." She moved away.
"No. Don't go yet. I'm fine."
"You keep saying that like I will eventually believe you. I won't." She frowned.
"Who are you?"
"I can't tell you."
"Can't or won't" His smile faded.
"Both. It is better you don't know."
"Then I will just have to repeat this performance every night until you change your mind."
"If you are that crazy, you deserve what comes to you, then."
"We shall see," he moved to stand, eyes locked on the bronze face above them.
"Alright. Ingrid, my name is Ingrid. Please don't!"
"Okay, Ingrid. It is nice to meet you. Why is it that you spend so much time in the cemetary?"
"I don't. You just happened to find me here."
"Three times."
"Yes. Three times. Thankfully for you. I almost did not come out tonight."
"So you do spend many nights here, then?"
She cursed herself under her breath. "No. Just recently."
"Why?"
"Because it's that time of year."
"What time of year." He shifted closer.
"The time of year idiots like you pull stunts like this." She moved back.
"I see. So why is that any of your concern."
"Because unlike you, I believe the legends."
"Fair enough. So you just hang out and wait to rescue poor souls like myself every night?"
"Not exactly." She looked away.
"What then?"
"Let's just say I have no choice."
"Why not?"
"Because when you know what I know, it's hard to stand by and let it happen, okay."
"I don't understand."
She stood. "I really have to go now, Ivan. Please don't do anything else stupid. Okay?" She turned and stepped off the stone.
"Until next time?" Ivan bowed.
"That's not funny."
"Then meet me tomorrow."
"I can't."
"We will talk about anything but Her." He nodded to towards the statue. "I promise. Just meet me."
"Why?"
"Comon. I'll buy you lunch."
"Why?"
"You just saved my life, it's the least I can do." He smiled down at her as his hand patted his chest.
"Okay. But only because I want to make sure you're still breathing."
"How about Hamburg Inn?"
"Fine."
"See you at 1?"
"Sure."
"It's a date then."
"No. It's a lunch meeting."
"Sure. Whatever." He laughed.
Feeling her cheecks flush, she turned and pulled her mask over her face.
"Good night, Ingrid."
She did not respond as she grabbed her things and left the cemetary. What have you done? she thought.
Before she could do anything to interfere, the man stood tall on the base of the statue stretching his body to its full length to reach his lips up to the face of the Angel. "Nooo!" She screamed but the man's body collapsed onto the stone slab. Running as fast as she could towards him, she pulled back her mask and rolled up her sleeves. She climbed onto the slab and reached for the man's neck. "No pulse. Dammit," she whispered. After glancing around the darkness and finding nothing but the tombstones, she reached down and positioned herself over the man's chest. She started chest compressions as she prayed.
Even thoough her mind begged her not to, her eyes drifted to the lifeless face of the man beneath her. She paused as recognition flashed through her. "Ivan? What the hell?"
Reminding herself he would die if she stopped, she resumed her desperate compressions. "Why? Why?" Tears built behind her eyes even though she had only met the boy once. She'd never had to encounter a familiar face during her work before. "You will not die on me, Ivan. I demand it. Wake up, you fool."
As her arms began to burn and tremble, she heard a gasp as she felt resistance in the lungs inflated beneath her palms. As she pulled back, his hands grasped hers. With eyes wide and wild, he sat up peering blankly into the darkness.
"Oh thank God."
"I...knew...it," Ivan mumbled.
"Knew what?"
"You are..." He pointed between the statue and her.
"I have no idea what you are talking about."
"Don't be...don't lie."
"You should go to the hospital. I'm calling an ambulance."
"No. No, I'm fine."
"A minute ago you were dead. You are not fine."
"I'm alive now. Thank you." He gave her a weak seeming half smile.
"What the hell did you think you were doing anyway."
"I didn't think anything would happen. I don't.. I mean, I didn't believe any of it. I was only hoping to find you."
She pulled her hands free from his. "You really are a fool."
He grabbed his chest and gasped. "Argh."
"Oh, God, I'm so sorry." She moved away.
"No. Don't go yet. I'm fine."
"You keep saying that like I will eventually believe you. I won't." She frowned.
"Who are you?"
"I can't tell you."
"Can't or won't" His smile faded.
"Both. It is better you don't know."
"Then I will just have to repeat this performance every night until you change your mind."
"If you are that crazy, you deserve what comes to you, then."
"We shall see," he moved to stand, eyes locked on the bronze face above them.
"Alright. Ingrid, my name is Ingrid. Please don't!"
"Okay, Ingrid. It is nice to meet you. Why is it that you spend so much time in the cemetary?"
"I don't. You just happened to find me here."
"Three times."
"Yes. Three times. Thankfully for you. I almost did not come out tonight."
"So you do spend many nights here, then?"
She cursed herself under her breath. "No. Just recently."
"Why?"
"Because it's that time of year."
"What time of year." He shifted closer.
"The time of year idiots like you pull stunts like this." She moved back.
"I see. So why is that any of your concern."
"Because unlike you, I believe the legends."
"Fair enough. So you just hang out and wait to rescue poor souls like myself every night?"
"Not exactly." She looked away.
"What then?"
"Let's just say I have no choice."
"Why not?"
"Because when you know what I know, it's hard to stand by and let it happen, okay."
"I don't understand."
She stood. "I really have to go now, Ivan. Please don't do anything else stupid. Okay?" She turned and stepped off the stone.
"Until next time?" Ivan bowed.
"That's not funny."
"Then meet me tomorrow."
"I can't."
"We will talk about anything but Her." He nodded to towards the statue. "I promise. Just meet me."
"Why?"
"Comon. I'll buy you lunch."
"Why?"
"You just saved my life, it's the least I can do." He smiled down at her as his hand patted his chest.
"Okay. But only because I want to make sure you're still breathing."
"How about Hamburg Inn?"
"Fine."
"See you at 1?"
"Sure."
"It's a date then."
"No. It's a lunch meeting."
"Sure. Whatever." He laughed.
Feeling her cheecks flush, she turned and pulled her mask over her face.
"Good night, Ingrid."
She did not respond as she grabbed her things and left the cemetary. What have you done? she thought.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Paperback Edition now Available!
For those of you that love the feel of a book in your hands, the smell of the ink on the pages, and enjoyment of turning an actual paper page, you are in luck! Beyond the Reach of Judgement is now available in paperback.
Also, check back for details on the upcoming Blog Tour, planned June 30-July 4 complete with Giveaways!
Friday, May 16, 2014
Kitchen Adventure: Home Made Crunchwraps (Mexigons? WTF?)
For my latest kitchen experiment I attempted to make one of my restaurant favorites, the Crunchwrap Supreme. (Did you know the first considered name was the Mexigon? Glad that fell through.) This is a vegetarian and slightly healthier version for those of you looking for something tasty and healthy.
Ingredients:
-large tortillas
-tostados
-plain Greek yogurt
-refried beans
-shredded cheese
-pico de gallo
-shredded lettuce
Directions:
-Lay out tortilla and spread pre-heated beans in the center.
-sprinkle cheese over beans
-Place tostado over cheese and beans
-Cover tostado with yogurt
-Place lettuce and pico de gallo over yogurt
-This trial was cooked using table-top George Foreman Grill. Wrap turned 90 degrees (not flipped) half-way through cooking. Total cook time ~ 5 minutes.
-ENJOY!
Ingredients:
-large tortillas
-tostados
-plain Greek yogurt
-refried beans
-shredded cheese
-pico de gallo
-shredded lettuce
Directions:
-Lay out tortilla and spread pre-heated beans in the center.
-sprinkle cheese over beans
-Place tostado over cheese and beans
-Cover tostado with yogurt
-Place lettuce and pico de gallo over yogurt
-Fold tortilla edges over top
-This trial was cooked using table-top George Foreman Grill. Wrap turned 90 degrees (not flipped) half-way through cooking. Total cook time ~ 5 minutes.
-ENJOY!
Friday, May 2, 2014
New Project
As my first project as now been released; it is time to start moving forward. My new project is something I've been thinking about for years and finally feel ready to take it on. It is based on a fascinating burial marker that exists in Oakland Cemetery in Iowa City, IA - The Black Angel. This monument was erected in 1913 by Theresa Dolezal Feldwert to honor her second husband and her second son. She would later also be buried beneath the mysterious bronze angel. Because of its unusual color and posture, the angel statue has led to many urban legends and ghost stories which only grow with each passing year. While much is known about Theresa, much is still unknown making her a perfect inspiration for my next project.
Working title: Curse of An Angel
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Ingrid Musil seems like your average 20-something by all who may encounter her during the day, but she has a dark secret that few know. For reasons unknown to her or her family, she is the most recent in a 100 year history of her ancestors to receive premonitory dreams or awful things to come to those who disrespect The Black Angel. Her unwelcome knowledge forces her to spend many nights, and some days, attempting to save those future victims from their curse. She thought her secret was safe until she starts to feel someone watching her.
Ivan Cerny is an Art History student struggling to complete his thesis project. He's chosen the mysterious Black Angel monument of Oakland Cemetery as his subject but can't seem to find the proper focus for his analysis. He spends days in the Cemetery staring up at the statue with notebook in hand waiting for inspiration. Then on Halloween Night, after watching countless groups tempt the wrath of the Angel, he finds the angle for which he's been searching, but also something more. Is there really truth behind the legends?
Cara Dempster believes in the paranormal so much that she has become a paranormal investigator. She participates in investigations all over the Midwest, but her favorite spot remains that of Oakland Cemetery in her hometown of Iowa City, as it was here she had her first paranormal experience and it was here that inspired her to pursue other experiences. She never imagined that it would be here, however, that she would find her best friends. Together, they seek answers to a mystery over 100 years in the making.
If you want well researched information on this monument and the fascinating woman behind it I recommend this book: The Black Angel: a centennial history 1913-2013 by Timothy Parrott
As you can see, the internet LOVES the Black Angel - here are some links I have used in my research if you are interested in learning more.
http://iagenweb.org/johnson/BlackAngel/BlackAngel.htm
http://www.weirdus.com/states/iowa/stories/ll_black_angel/index.php
http://www.prairieghosts.com/oakland.html
http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/16409
http://www.hauntedplaces.org/item/black-angel-oakland-cemetery/
http://www.hauntedusa.org/oakland.htm
http://www.yawp.com/3rd-i/vol3/vol3No10/blackangel.html
http://voices.yahoo.com/the-black-angel-oakland-cemetery-iowa-city-monument-1958834.html
http://secondsightparanormal.blogspot.com/2008/11/black-angel-of-iowa-city.html
http://www.syfy.com/hauntedhighway/episodes
http://www.lostdestinations.com/blkangel.htm
http://www.mysticalblaze.com/GhostsIowa.htm
http://daytrippin.us/2013/05/spending-time-with-the-black-angel/
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Thank you!
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!
For all of those who supported me on my release week for Beyond the Reach of Judgement. It has been an exciting ride so far. The blog tour went well. If you haven't already, check out the links in the previous post for the participating blogs to enter for a free e-copy. If you are interested in purchasing a copy, here are the links:Friday, April 18, 2014
Blog Blitz 4/19-25
Join me for my Release Week celebration - a chance to win a free ebook copy of Beyond the Reach of Judgement at each stop.
April 19:
Margay Leah Justice: http://margayleahjustice.blogspot.com
Simplistic Reviews: http://simplisticreviews.com
Kindle and Me: www.kindleandme.com
Captivated Reading: http://www.captivatedreadingreviews.com
Becky on Books: http://beckymmoe.com
Laurie's Thoughts and Reviews: http://lauriethoughts-reviews.blogspo...
Michelle Abbott's Blog: http://michelle-abbott.weebly.com/
I love books: http://ilove-books.blogspot.com/
Becca Anne's Book Reviews: http://beccaannesbookreviews.blogspot...
The Avid Book Collector: http://avidbookcollector.blogspot.com
Simplistic Reviews: http://simplisticreviews.com
Kindle and Me: www.kindleandme.com
Captivated Reading: http://www.captivatedreadingreviews.com
Becky on Books: http://beckymmoe.com
Laurie's Thoughts and Reviews: http://lauriethoughts-reviews.blogspo...
Michelle Abbott's Blog: http://michelle-abbott.weebly.com/
I love books: http://ilove-books.blogspot.com/
Becca Anne's Book Reviews: http://beccaannesbookreviews.blogspot...
The Avid Book Collector: http://avidbookcollector.blogspot.com
April 20:
Mythical Books: http://mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/
Mismatched Bookends: http://Mismatchedbookends.Blogspot.com
Book Boyfriend Hangover: http://bookboyfriendhangover.weebly.com/
Amazing Reading Experiences: http://amazingreadingexperiences.blog...
Scandalous Book Blog: http://scandalousbookblog.blogspot.co...
Not Everyone's Mama: http://noteveryonesmama.com
Bookoholic Anom: http://www.bookoholicanom.com
Mismatched Bookends: http://Mismatchedbookends.Blogspot.com
Book Boyfriend Hangover: http://bookboyfriendhangover.weebly.com/
Amazing Reading Experiences: http://amazingreadingexperiences.blog...
Scandalous Book Blog: http://scandalousbookblog.blogspot.co...
Not Everyone's Mama: http://noteveryonesmama.com
Bookoholic Anom: http://www.bookoholicanom.com
April 21:
For Whom The Books Toll: forwhomthebookstoll.blogspot.com
April 23:
alwaysjoart: http://alwaysjoart.blogspot.com/
April 24:
Penny For Them... http://pennyforthemuk.com/search/labe...
April 25:
Share My Destiny: http://sharemydestiny.blogspot.com
A Book, A Beer, & A Dream: http://abookabeeradream.blogspot.com/
The Book Lovers Codex: http://www.thebookloverscodex.co.uk
Books and Friendz: www.booksnfriendz.blogspot.com.au
The Phantom Paragrapher: www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com
A Book, A Beer, & A Dream: http://abookabeeradream.blogspot.com/
The Book Lovers Codex: http://www.thebookloverscodex.co.uk
Books and Friendz: www.booksnfriendz.blogspot.com.au
The Phantom Paragrapher: www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com
Monday, April 14, 2014
It's almost Release Day!
I can hardly believe the day is almost here. After almost two years of work on Beyond the Reach of Judgement, my Release Day is only five days away! The book has been professionally edited and formatted. The video book trailer has been created and uploaded. A playlist is complete. The blog blitz with Xpresso Book Tours has been arranged. Review copies have been sent. Goodreads and Facebook events have been created. Ads have been ordered. Now we sit back and wait with bated breath for the big moment.
Won't you join me?
Won't you join me?
Friday, March 21, 2014
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