Monthly Archives: March 2012

Tricia Talks-TED is my new Auto-Correct

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Tickle Your Fancy is one of our Themes. Since The Reading Cafe is a place we can all hang out, while we drink our coffee or sip our margaritas, the talk of everything books can lead to funny stuff when we are having fun. Since this feature has been so much fun, let’s see what Tricia has for us this month…..

Do you text?  I text  A LOT.  I can text paragraphs of comments.  Texting is an inexpensive and quick way of communicating when you are separated from your family and friends.  I’ve been able to survive boring meetings thanks to my cell phone and texting.  I have great friends who do their best to prevent me from lapsing into a meeting induced coma by entertaining me with comments, songs and other silliness.  There is nothing funnier than looking down at my phone and being surprised by “Drop it like it’s hot, drop it like it’s hot!” or “Red Solo Cup, I fill you up. Let’s have a party!” The only issue I have is trying to control my laughter, either in a crowded room or while I’m alone.   There have been many occasions when I’m alone in my office or in a store, staring at my phone, and laughing like a psycho.  People probably question my sanity but how can you blame them when they see me laughing like a fool all by myself? 

The greatest and most annoying invention to go along with texting is that devil auto correct.  I have had countless episodes of hysterical laughing thanks to auto correct.  Auto correct is where your cell phone changes your word to what it thinks you were trying to type.  I try to always proofread my texts before sending but sometimes I forget.  And that’s when that little weasel auto correct gets me every time.  But the funniest of all is the replies one can get (or give) when auto correct rears its ugly head.  Here are a few examples to explain what I’m talking about.  I can’t remember every single auto correction, but here are the ones that were the funniest.  Some corrections were so funny, I still use them now.  My friends and I have basically created our own language thanks to texting and auto correct.

One day I was very upset and was blasting away a text to vent my frustration.  In the text, I was trying to say holy s**t along with a bunch of other words.  Auto correct changed that to holy JUDY.  Apparently my phone is against cursing.  I get a response that says “is holy JUDY a southern term for s**t?”  I read over the text I sent and realize what happened.  This prompted hysterical laughter and now instead of texting the curse word, my friend (Hi Miranda!) and I text holy JUDY.

Another example is when my friend was so upset that this trashy guy was flirting with her, making her feel very uncomfortable.  She was texting me, saying how this loser was flirting with a married woman.  But instead of flirt, the message said “slirt”.  Me being me, I focused on this new word instead of her distress.  I respond in my typical smarty pants fashion, making fun of this new word.  We’ve created several definitions for this word, one being a sleazy flirt and the other definition is not one that can be mentioned here……..

I received this text from another friend that had me crying, I was laughing so hard.  “Me and donkey are at a restaurant and they have beets on tap and we’ve drank 200 ounces!”  WHAAAAAAT??   I’m thinking what in the world is he talking about?  I had to focus and try to translate this mystery.  Beets…..beets on tap……OH, he meant BEER!  Ok, the beets mystery is solved.  Although if he was drunk on beets, he needs some help.  The next mystery is deciphering donkey…..who is donkey?  So I asked him, “Who is donkey?  Donkey as in from Shrek or donkey as in Donkey Kong?”   My friend then had to re-read HIS text because he was thinking I had cracked my melon.  What he was TRYING to say was, “Me and Ronald are at a restaurant and they have beer on tap…..”  Mystery solved!   I think auto correct was drunk when he changed those words.  And maybe my friend was a little drunk when he sent that text.  He really can’t handle his beets. 

Next is a conversation where I was trying to cheer up a friend.  A little birdie tells me that her husband has his feelings hurt because I called him a twerp after he wisecracked about me on Facebook.  So to make amends, I started texting said husband, telling him how much I appreciate his friendship, while rolling my eyes repeatedly because he was being such a baby.  I text him “Red solo cup, you aren’t just a cup, you’re my friend.”  Or that’s what I WANTED to text him.  Instead, he gets a message that says “TED solo cup, you aren’t just a cup, you’re my friend.”  I get a quick reply that says, “Who the hell is Ted?”  My response to that was, “Ted is the little *insert curse word here* that lives in my phone and runs my auto correct.”  So from this day forward, my phone will always be known as Ted and he will take the blame for every word that gets messed up in my texts.  It’s not the beets, it’s not my texting thumbs, it’s TED.

Last but certainly not least is squirrel.  Squirrel is another term that has morphed into our texting language, although not by auto correct.  Have you ever watched the cartoon movie UP!?  It’s an adorable movie that has a talking dog.  Throughout the movie as the dog is talking, he can quickly be distracted if he sees a squirrel.  In the middle of his conversation, the dog looks away and says SQUIRREL which indicates his focus has shifted.  So instead of the furry little creature we all know as a squirrel, SQUIRREL means something else entirely in text speak.  The new text definition of SQUIRREL is an indication of a rapid subject change in the middle of your text.  For example:  How’s the weather?  The weather is COLD! .….SQUIRREL!……  I had chicken nuggets for lunch.  See? I quickly shifted the topic of conversation.  But be careful with the use of SQUIRREL!  The rapid change in subject may cause some to get whiplash.

Until next time, Ted and I bid you good day.

Tricia

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J L Barnett-An Interview with the Author

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JL Barnett-An Interview with the Author

An Interview with the author of Storm’s Wake-J L Barnett

From time to time, The Reading Cafe will feature new and upcoming authors. Today we would like to introduce-JL Barnett.

I enjoyed JL Barnett’s new book STORM’S WAKE so much that I approached JL about an interview-hoping to get more information about the future storylines (he won’t spill any secrets 😉 ) but most importantly to learn about the man behind Jake Storm.

 ∞∞∞∞∞∞∞GIVEAWAY∞∞∞∞∞∞∞

JL Barnett is offering a signed copy of his new book -Storm’s Wake

To qualify:

1.  You must be a member of The Reading Cafe.  If you are not a member, please register today.
2.  Please post a comment on our interview with JL –say hello !!

(Open to US and Canada residents only-sorry)

TRC: Hi JL and welcome to The Reading Cafe. We would like to start with some background information.

Name:  J.L. Barnett
Resides:  Georgia
Age:  39
Married:  16 years
Children:  5
US Army Veteran: Service ended July 2001
Hobbies:  guitar, computers, Medieval chain mail armor

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about yourself?

JLB:  It’s hard to find a decent spot to start when it comes to yourself, or at least for me.  Born and raised Georgia boy.  I got married young and had to grow up fast.  Skip forward 30 years to the writer, that part took time to evolve.  I didn’t like writing as a kid, even though my mother always told me my imagination was a bit on the strange side. (lol).

TRC:  As a child, what were your interests growing up?

JLB:  As a kid, I loved anime type things.  The cartoons that really caught my attention were like Star Blazers, Classic Voltron, Space Giants, Justice League…  Yes, that really shows my age.  LOL… But in the late 70s / early 80s these were revolutionary shows.  It had kids wanting to be space pilots or superheroes, saving the universe every day.

TRC:   When did you become interested in writing?  Have you always thought about writing as a career choice?

JLB:  My interest in writing only recently came to be.  I honestly never thought about writing as a career.  As a teenager, I was introduced to the late Roger Zelazny’s work.  I was drawn in.  From there, my wife introduced me to writers like Mercedes Lackey.  I also found Anne McCaffrey’s work intriguing.  But overall, it was a couple of coworkers (and my wife especially) who encouraged both my writing and my pursuit of it as a career.  Ladies like Miranda Harrell, Debbie Forcier and LeAli Bean, each with very unique likes and dislikes in books, music and style.  Seeing how I could intrigue them with a story, and watch them eagerly want to know more, struck a chord in me that said I could really do this on a larger scale.

TRC:  Have you had any works previously published?

JLB:  No. 

TRC:  As a former US Army soldier, have you ever considered writing novels featuring the military?

JLB:  I have considered it, but its hard for me as a soldier to write about things that way.  No civilian can ever truly understand a soldier’s life, or dedication.  While I know I could write on this, I also know it would be a harder process as I would NOT want to disrespect the sacrifice any soldier gives.  Some stories just bring up memories better left forgotten.  But in the scheme of sci-fi / fantasy, I wouldn’t  say I’d never write something with a military theme or featuring the military.

TRC:  Your new novel from the series “The Chronicles of Jake”—Storm’s Wake —(paperback released December 2011/Kindle January 2012) features your hero– Jake Storm—a man who awakens from a 6 year coma, with no memory of what has happened and why?  Would you tell us how you came up with the concept for this book?

JLB:  How did I come up with this concept?  That in itself is a good question.  When I began, I started with a simple prologue of 1 word.  Darkness.  After that, I worked backwards from the emotions I was trying to create and brainstormed scenarios that would cause it.  From there, everything else just came out.  Okay, maybe not exactly like that…  But sometimes good stories just happen.  I’ve learned I’m not a writer that can sit down, draw up an outline of events, and make a story.  I write by inspiration, muse, mood…  When I created Jake and his story, I was not trying to be a writer.  I was researching an author my kids were reading and was inspired at her story about how she began.  From there, I took my story and wrote a few hours every day, until I found an ongoing storyline that my wife enjoyed hearing me read.  I spent every day hearing “AND????”.  Only to leave her hanging and wanting for more. 

TRC:  You and I have previously discussed the sense that the reader feels ‘disconnected’ with the characters, especially in the first ½ of the book.   Would you please explain how this fits with the premise of the storyline?

JLB:  As we discussed, Jake’s story begins immediately with him feeling like the world around him just isn’t right.  I want any reader to experience not only Jake’s disconnection, at how he wakes up in a time he don’t remember, and the pain and frustration this causes, but also to experience the emotions and events that happen.  How his mind and body seem to “know” things while his memory of anything before the hospital is blank.  As you stated, you felt “disconnected” with the characters. I’ve had other readers who relate with the characters on many different levels, with their experiences, and how the story unfolds.  It’s what makes the whole experience unique, each reader seeing the same story and getting a totally different view than someone else.  Not everyone will connect with any or all the characters.  But if you find yourself reading the story and getting to the end of a chapter and eagerly find yourself unable to put it down because you want to know whats next, then I’ve succeeded.  🙂 

TRC:  Tracie, is the woman from Jake’s life prior to his hospitalization, but for some reason, he is unable to remember important facts regarding his relationship with this woman.  And now there is a connection between Tessa and Tracie.  Would you please explain the relationship between Tessa, Tracie and Jake?  Will we see their relationship(s) grow in the next installment of ‘The Chronicles of Jake”?

JLB:  N/A.

TRC:  Tessa’s ‘demon half’ to her persona, is both human and feral.  At times, her ‘demon’  has a hard time distinguishing –friend from enemy.  Are her ‘demonic’ attributes, as a result of the forced injection at the labs, during Tracie’s incarceration, or has Tessa always been a demon?

JLB: N/A

TRC:  *thinks to self*….I am sensing a pattern…. 🙂

TRC: Charlie, is one of Jake’s only friends.  He was one of the first people to help Jake when he was released from the hospital, but towards the end of the first book, Charlie went missing, and the revelation of people with ‘shape-shifting’ abilities has come into focus.  Will you explain more about the ‘shape –shifting beings’, and will we see more of these characters in future novels?

JLB:  Actually, Charlie didn’t go missing, per say.  To explain in detail about him would be a huge spoiler on book 1, but I promise “its in there” .  The discovery of people with ‘shape-shifting’ abilities is also part of the storyline.  While trying to not sound cliche’, more will be revealed in book 2.

TRC:  Are you willing to tell us about Charlie’s significance in Jake’s life and his connection to Jake’s current dilemma?

JLB:  This connection is not one I can disclose right now, as it is also part of the ongoing story. 

TRC:  With the current popularity of paranormal and fantasy fiction, how would you classify The Chronicles of Jake?  Sci-Fi? Fantasy?  Or a combination of both?

JLB: I would say its a combination of both.

TR: Jake’s biological mother, has been ‘assisting’ Jake with his new-found powers.  Would you please tell us about his parents and their connection to Jake’s current troubles.?

JLB: Being able to get this much info about Jake’s biological parents, while very encouraging, also means you have to wait for the later books.  Not trying to give away spoilers just yet…

TRC:  There are rare instances in the novel, where you refer to the color of eyes or the scent of vanilla, especially as it pertains to his mother.  What, if any, is the significance of the vanilla scent?

JLB: Being able to associate this connection of scent to his mother again points to the last statement answer.  Sadly, its another intricate part of the story.

TRC:  *sigh*..still can’t make him spill…. 😉

TRC:  Storm’s Wake ended, with Jake and Dr. Gustov –(the head of the bio-genetics lab, responsible for many of the experiments that resulted in deaths as well as enhanced human beings) held prisoner, and Tessa is now missing, and presumably being tested for her abilities as a shape-shifting demon.  Had you considered ‘killing-off’ Dr. Gustov before he had the chance to explain what has happened?

JLB:  While I admit, Jake lets his emotions drive him into rash decisions, would you personally be capable of getting up after say a ball bat strike to your head, leaving you immobilized, and find the strength or mental thought to murder a shadowy figure in a dark room?  There is more here than meets the eyes, again explained in book 2.  I promise.

TRC: Storm’s Rage, the second novel in The Chronicles of Jake, will be release in the Fall of 2012.  Will you give us any hint as to the premise of the book?  Is there an excerpt available to the public?

JLB: Jake’s story continues, his life becoming more clear, his past explained in better detail.  Currently, there are no excerpts available to the public yet.

TRC:  How many books have you planned for The Chronicles of Jake series ?

JLB:  At this time, I have 3 planned.  But I do have a few project ideas that also connect to this series.

TRC:  We were brought to your attention by the wonderful and talented Francis J. Cura.  Francis is on the cover of Storm’s Wake.  Would you please tell us how you met Francis?

JLB:  Yes. Francis did send me your way.  He told me of his interview and he really felt Storm’s Wake should be shown with the other covers that were listed, but understandably due to timing constraints the interview was posted before I had the chance to get in contact with you ladies.  So, how we met was fairly unique and completely by chance.  While in the creating phase of Storm’s Wake, even before I had a publisher, I designed a cover.  I went through a few different ideas.  I researched online for help in getting a cover put together, reading many blogs and forum listings.  One suggested looking into royalty-free photos.  So, I went to one of the suggested sites, and found an image of a man standing near woods with a panther in the background.  I felt an instant click and did some research to find out who he was.  Took me a few days of searching and tracking to find his website (http://www.francisjcura.com/).  I read all about him.  The more I read about him, the more I thought he’d be perfect for this.  Before then, I had never heard of him.  So, through the contact us section, I wrote him.  He was very nice, right off the bat.

TRC:  Are you still in contact with Francis on a regular basis?

JLB:  He and I do stay in contact.  We email back and forth.  With his busy schedule, and his growing popularity, we don’t speak every day by any means.  But I consider him a friend and am honored for his image to be on my book.

TRC:  Will Francis be the cover model for ALL of The Chronicles of Jake?

JLB:  I hope so.  If it were up to me, I’d say absolutely.  He and I have both talked about it, and tossed a few ideas around, and he seemed very excited about it.  We’ll have to see what the future holds.

TRC:  What are you currently working on?

JLB:  Storm’s Rage is my current focus.  That while trying to promote Storm’s Wake.  🙂 

TRC:  Does you wife help you with your ideas or your writing?

JLB:  Absolutely, I read to her and my children too when they are interested.  She is my #1 toughest critic, and biggest fan. 

TRC:  Is there anything else you would like to add about The Chronicles of Jake?

JLB:  While I know it seems that there are many unanswered questions, I do know that the answers are coming.  Book 1 has brought you many notable characters, all intertwined with the main hero in some shape, form or fashion.  This series is a trilogy, and book 2 reveals many new things, answering questions asked throughout this interview.  Knowing this, its hard not to give spoiler answers and explain everything you can go … OH, I see.  Just know they are coming, as quickly as I can get them there. 

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Movie:  Interview with a Vampire…

Favorite TV Show:  tie Law and Order:SVU and NCIS

Favorite Author:  Roger Zelazny

Last Book that you read:  The Host

Favorite Food:  Chinese (Beef w/Broccoli)

Last Vacation Destination:  Panama City Beach, FL.

Boxers, Briefs or Commando (we always ask):  Boxer Briefs

Who is your muse?  Zelazny, Meyers, Lackey (combination, no single)

Favorite Sport:  Basketball

Dark or Milk Chocolate:  Dark…. especially with peanut butter and a glass of milk… 🙂

TRC: Thank you J.L. for taking the time to answer our questions.  It is always a pleasure to meet the person behind the book and author.  We look forward to Storm’s Rage in the fall and wish you the best of luck with all of your upcoming projects.

Click Here to Order from Amazon: STORM’S WAKE by J L Barnett

Click here for J L Barnett blog: Chronicles of Jake

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STORM’S WAKE by J L Barnett-A Review

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STORM’S WAKE by JL Barnett

REMINDER–INTERVIEW & GIVEAWAY with the author:  J L Barnett

Friday March 23, 2012

Storm’s Wake is the premiere book in JL Barnett’s new series-The Chronicles of Jake. JL Barnett is a first time author, with Storm’s Wake released in December 2011 and in ebook for Kindle in January 2012. With a mix of both Fantasy and Science fiction, JL introduces us to Jake Storm, a mystery man who awakens from a 6-year coma with no knowledge of what has happened or who he is. The timeline is the mid 21st century.

Jake Storm is in pain. With no recollection of who, what, where when or why, Jake slowly awakens from a 6 year coma, to a changed world. Hospital personnel tell him about the warehouse explosion that nearly cost him his life-he doesn’t remember. But something isn’t right. He remembers the scent of vanilla, and a woman with a Russian accent-was he dreaming or is she real? And why is everyone looking at him? The faces aren’t familiar, but the eyes. He has seen those eyes before. With only the a few hundred dollars and a couple of contact numbers, Jake is sent into the world, alone and wondering what has become of his life.

Jake meets Charlie, a friendly cab driver, who is more than willing to take Jake wherever he wants to go. And Tessa- a beautiful but mysterious woman they meet in California, who claims to have known Jake in his prior life. What are their connections to his past? But, when Tessa attacks Jake, he knows that not all is what is seems. And the dreams- Are they memories or dreams? Are they glimpses into the future or visions through the eyes of someone else?

So many questions that need to be answered, lead Jake on an adventure across the globe. When Tessa takes Jake to the home he left behind, before the ‘accident’, memories begin to return. A picture of a happy couple, at his bedside-he remembers-Tracie, but where is Tracie? Why isn’t she with him? Who has Tracie and what is her connection to the warehouse ‘accident’ that nearly took his life? But along with these memories, there are indications that Jake is not a simple man. There is a power that flows through Jake, that he cannot deny- his speed and agility, along with his ability to telepathically connect with others, on a different plane of consciousness. And Tessa has been assigned to bring Jake to those who wish to see him terminated.

Remembering that he was searching for his familial roots, Jake stumbles upon a medallion-The Medallion of the Head Triumvirate- left to him by his biological parents-A medallion that enhances the powers building-up inside of Jake. But the family history has been written over hundreds of years, dating back to the witch trials of the 1600s, and Jake is not without his own powers and control. As a member of the Triumvirate Council, during the Salem Witch Trials, Jake’s father Mikael Storme was rumored to have had a lover, but their relationship was deemed forbidden, as they were both ‘powered ones’, and Jake is the result of that relationship. And now Jake is the target of those hoping to harness control over his powers, the medallion and to destroy the man that he is.

Blackouts, headaches and nausea seem to accompany Jake’s visions and dreams. As the memories return, so does the need to acquire as much information about his past as is possible. And with every dream comes a female voice- a voice that urges him, directs him and leads him along the path of discovery. The voice is familiar and caring, but also warns of the dangers he is facing. With Tessa and Charlie, Jake searches for answers, but when all 3 are hunted, Jake knows he must find a way to keep everyone alive. And his memories of Tracie come unbidden and more frequently as his powers increase. She has a connection to the men and the explosion that almost destroyed his world.

But a fantasy/sci-fi novel would not be complete without a demon or shape-shifter as well. Tessa, it seems, has some hidden powers of her own and aids Jake in his hunt to track down the people who are trying to take him in. When Tessa recounts a story of genetic experiments and a binding formula, somehow Jake knows that Tessa is a victim as well. Science fiction fans will relish the idea and the fantasy readers, will cherish the shifter- abilities of the Contessa Morgaine.

When the trail leads to Russia, Jake and Tessa must leave an injured Charlie behind. But a series of abductions involving young girls, a train ride through the forests of Russia and ‘hydro-copters’ on patrol, hunting both Tessa and Jake, their journey will be hampered by an injury, that will draw them closer together. When a mysterious healer, a shaman, aids in the recovery, Jake is surprised to learn that the man has the gift of inner sight-one that will allow Tessa to see the real Jake.

This first book in The Chronicles of Jake series, ends on a cliff-hanger. Culminating in the office of Dr. Johan Gustav-head of the bio-genetics lab, both Jake and Tessa learn about the history of what has occurred in the labs, the genetic testing and the many unexplained deaths and disappearances of those used for experimental purposes. And once again, Jake finds himself in the precarious position, of being trapped-and this time, it is not in a coma, but in the forgotten holding cells in the basement of Werder Castle.

Storm’s Wake is a wonderful first novel for JL Barnett. Mixing both fantasy and science-fiction, JL has touched both genres, without delving too deep into the realm of the paranormal. His hero, Jake Storm is as powerful as he is gentle-which is a very likeable combination. JL writes an interesting story, without the use of foul language, sex or graphic violence. The story is an easy read and the writing style is simple. And the cover model—The magnificent Francis J. Cura. Although, in the beginning, I had a hard time connecting with the hero, it is with conscious effort, JL explains, that my perception, was exactly what he had in mind, when he wrote Storm’s Wake. Book 2 in The Chronicles of Jake –Storm’s Rage—will be released in the fall of 2012.

I have no problem recommending Storm’s Wake.  I look forward to Storm’s Rage in the fall.

Click Here to Order from Amazon: STORM’S WAKE by J L Barnett

Click here for J L Barnett blog: Chronicles of Jake
reviewed by Sandy

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Sherrilyn Kenyon -Dark Hunter News

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SHERRILYN KENYON NEWS

SHERRILYN KENYON NEWS
About the Book

Original Publication Date: November 05, 2012

The fans asked for it…

All in one volume, all of the short stories that Sherri has written for St. Martin’s Press. Best of all, it will feature Fear the Darkness (first time in print) and a new short story with Acheron as the lead and updates on other fave characters as well as a sneak peek of Simi’s new love

Provided by Vickie

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BY A THREAD by Jennifer Estep-A New Release Review

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BY A THREAD by Jennifer Estep

BY A THREAD is the sixth storyline in Jennifer Estep’s Elemental Assassins series. Featuring heroine Gin Blanco, The Elemental Assassins series focuses on Gin’s life as assassin-for-hire The Spider. Now that her nemesis Mab Monroe is no longer a threat, Gin schedules a long needed vacation with her sister Bria, only to find, that no one will ever let her forget her past.

Gin Blanco has decided it is time to retire. Her life as The Spider has affected everyone she loves including her sister, her love life and her extended family of vampires, dwarves, giants and elementals. When her step-brother and her sister’s lover Finn suggests a vacation, Gin is reluctant. Although time together may help heal the heartache between she and her sister, their destination is about to bring more problems than she could have ever imagined.

Bria and Gin head to Blue Marsh, a small sea-side town where Bria was raised when the sisters were orphaned following a fatal fire that killed their parents and older sibling. Hoping to catch up with her childhood friend Callie, Bria is surprised to learn that Callie is engaged, and Gin is stunned when she recognizes Callie’s fiancé. To make matters worse, neither Callie nor Bria are aware of the connection.  

Bria’s continuous disdain for her sister, breaks Gin’s heart. As the assassin known as The Spider, Gin works the other side of the law. Her sister Bria, as a police detective, is torn between the law and her moral and ethical obligation to her superiors. But without Gin’s help, the tiny metropolis of Ashland, would be controlled by the beings more powerful than anyone could have predicted. Gin is washed in the knowledge that her only sister despises her and their relationship may be beyond repair.

The painful reminders from her past continue to haunt Gin, especially when her skills as an assassin may be needed. Randall Dekes is a wealthy landowner (and vampire) who continues to purchase all the surrounding land to build a large and sprawling casino, and Callie is one of only two holdouts in the land appropriation. On numerous occasions, Callie has been threatened and assaulted by the vampire’s men and Randall Dekes refuses to back down waging a campaign against Callie and anyone who stands in his way.

With her extended family now secluded in Blue Marsh, Gin, Bria, Finn and Gin’s lover Owen, devise a plan to convince Dekes, it would be in his interest to leave Callie and the others alone. But an error in judgment,almost costs Gin her life, as well as the lives of those thought to be closest to Randall Dekes. Gin’s fatal error, was not recognizing that perhaps her reputation as The Spider was known to Dekes. And once again, someone from her past, has let it be known, what and whom is Gin Blanco.

Randall Deke’s is a vampire, who knows a good thing when he finds it. To keep his abilities at full strength, he must feed from the Elementals, syphoning their powers, absorbing the elements of air, fire, stone and ice. With Gin’s dual elemental power, Deke is now in possession of all four elements. Weakened by Deke’s feeding, Gin must attempt an escape, by any means possible. But there are others who are in danger, and Gin promises to return.

Following a much-needed healing session with Jo Jo, Gin and the others must once again track a vampire in his lair, but not before it is revealed that  Callie is missing and presumed in Deke’s custody. Knowing many people already despise her  for who she is, Gin must call upon her skills as The Spider, to affect the rescue of her ex-lover’s fiancé and a couple of other elementals secluded within the walls of Deke’s mansion.

Gin’s battle with Deke and his warriors is action packed and the results are worth the effort. Freedom is gained at the cost of many lives but Callie is safe in the arms of her fiancé, and Blue Marsh and its’ people no longer have to worry about a vampire and his dreams of a casino and resort.

Gin and Owen’s relationship grows stronger throughout the storyline and the love scenes are gentle and pure. Callie’s fiance’s connection and feelings for Gin are revealed, and to everyone’s surprise, his confession leaves both himself and the reader-breathless. Gin’s past still haunts her dreams as well as her life, and we know, that we have not seen the last of Mab Monroe’s Ashland villains. BY A THREAD is another wonderful story in The Elemental Assassins series and I can’t wait for the next.

READING ORDER
1. Spider’s Bite
2. Web of Lies
3. Venom
4. Tangled Threads
5. Spider’s Revenge
5.5 Thread of Death (ebook)
6. By A Thread

Reviewed by Sandy

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M.A. Abraham – The Journey to Publication

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M.A. Abraham – The Journey to Publication

M.A. Abraham has consented to do a journal of her inner thoughts, as she takes the steps to publishing her first novel. M.A. has always loved to write; it was something she enjoyed doing in her spare time.

Publishing her work was the furthest thing from her mind. But her family and friends thought her work was good enough to be published. Things were set into motion, and Gabriel (her first book), is finally here. Let us follow M.A., as she starts the process that will be both scary and exciting as each day brings her closer to her release date.

M.A. Abraham – The Journal – The Beginning

 

This is almost how I feel at the moment… too bad this emoticon doesn’t show the action… smiley is sweating and afraid he is going get blindsided.  I can emphasize with him.

 

Should I be doing this?
Obsessing… It is all about things that don’t come together in the time frame that you imagine or want them to… others are busy, or not feeling well, it can drive you into a screaming frenzy.  Why does Murphy have to have such a firm hold on a person’s life?

Am I making a mistake?
Insecurity…People tell you the book is good, what they have read of it.  The question remains; however, of whether or not it is good enough.  Are your friends just giving you lip service telling you what they think you want to hear?  What if they are wrong? There is only one way to find out, and the thought is scary.

I believe someone in my life somewhere, probably my mother, told me not to get talked into a bad idea by anyone… sighing… it happens to the best of us.

Secrets…..so hard to keep it to yourself
Secrets… everything is hush, hush … Not supposed to let the proverbial cat out of the bag… running around with duct tape across the mouth (this is going to hurt), I am even thinking of taping the fingers so they don’t run off the keyboard.  Beginning to think of dancing around as I hum… “They’re coming to take me away… ha, ha they’re are coming to take me away ho, ho… to the funny farm, where life is beautiful all the time… and I’ll be happy to see those nice men in their clean white coats, and they’re coming to take me away.”

Ahhh…something positive
One niece who has been helping me by setting up my website and reading, complained that she did not read Elf stories… after she read this one she said it had six words that she really, really hated…. TO BE CONTINUED IN MARIOUS’ STORY.

Did the acknowledgment page today… I know at least one who is going to be thrilled to be named in there, and one that is going to think she doesn’t deserve to be on there.

Had Chinese food for supper, in my fortune cookie I found a slip of paper that said “Your friends will truly be helpful in you next month’s endeavor.”  Talk about your luck of the draw there.

OMG…I’m getting closer
Finished the last edit today… went and found 2 appropriate items on YouTube… one with the penguins dancing from happy feet… the other James Brown singing “I feel good”  Still insecure though… probably leaving a trail of chicken feathers wherever I go… all my friends are telling me I am being silly.

Proofreading is being done, if it goes well that means I am personally finished with Gabriel.  On Friday my website is supposed to get done.  Things are coming to a head.

Geez…and I thought I was done
The proof readers have come back at me… and I changed a few things… alright, probably more than they thought it needed… but I could see these things… an “s” where it was not needed… others where they were… a few typos that they missed, grammar oops (there are no end to those.) I have been told to keep my fingers off the keyboard now or someone is going to make a special trip here to slap them.  I guess that means I am finished… but, am I?  Something tells me I had better be or I might start damaging what I want to get right.

I’m starting to get nervous
Finished final edit today… I feel good.  Now we are doing the final proof read.  Still can’t believe I am going through with this…

Life has a way of tripping a person up… when all the helpers are either sick or so busy working they haven’t time to take care of anything else, so things get put onto the back burner.  It also takes time to do EVERYTHING… the artist has midterms, the postal department is slow as molasses in January… someone prints things wrong, and their work needs to be corrected… Everyone you talk to has a different brand of E-reader… sighing… curling up back in bed, putting pillow over in bed.

Talked to Rebecca, she is a mass of nerves, which has nothing to do with the book… she has been putting hours in at work beyond her tolerance level… now the book has reached the point where it needs her talents… she is coming Friday.  Looking to make special meal so she can store up extra energy.  She will probably bring artwork with her, either way, it looks like this might be coming in on schedule after all.

Something positive #2
Alright, I have gotten THE CALL… tomorrow is “W” day… the website goes up… I think I could have placed a bet on this day happening and taken my winnings to the bank… the roads are slippery… it is snowing outside… it is one of the colder days that we have had all winter, and this winter has been unbelievably warm … my niece is coming to work on her part of the project.  Big question is, can she?  The highways are not supposed to be bad, but the city, where she will start from, is a nightmare.

Checked the registrar office for the copyright – it is there… bonus… another hurdle handled.  Boom- chica –boom…

It’s nervous time again #2
The end of the month is looming like a shadow in the entrance to a dark alley.   And yes…

We are all too aware of the time…lol.  I understand that the artist liked the idea of Eden falling out of the tree into Gabriel’s arms so much that is what she drew.  lol.  I saw the (very) rough draft of it last night (Greek to me) but we told her to cut some of the curves on Eden.  She said no problem it was a very rough draft. I guess we get to see what our General looks like together.

Alright it is March… taking deep breath, running for paper bag to put over head… WHAT HAVE I DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Part of me wonders what is going to happen… another part is afraid of what might… so, yes… it probably is nerves.

Learning the ropes on public forums is like running across the snow with loose pants at -40, you never know when you are going to be exposed to the elements.

Setting up good luck charms everywhere… didn’t know I had that many stuffed Snoopys.

The Final Days
Checked with the Copyright Registration list… IT IS THERE…  doing the funky chicken dance… (um… what is the funky chicken dance?)

Sent off pdfs to be read by those who need to read ahead of time… think I will go now and woof my cookies.

Me….A Tease?
A TEASE?  I HAVE BEEN CALLED A TEASE?  Well I did take a course once that did say if many people were all trying to tell you the same thing, there might be something to it.

Sigh…more nervous time
It is 2 weeks before release date and the artwork still isn’t in… growling… this is not performance.  Things are getting tight.

Cover is going to be the very last thing to come… am I surprised…not… and it is going to be very last minute… the suspense is building… the curtains remain closed… next week is do or die week… the drummer is aligning his instruments… getting ready to do a dramatic drumroll… is there going to be something worthwhile to see?  Or shadows by a great tree?

Alright, today is the 9th of March… I did it… I uploaded the preface onto my website. Walking away with a whimper…. Mother told me there would be days like this.

Well the formatting is finished… only thing missing is… you guessed it… the artwork… repeating as I head off… after the weekend…after the weekend … after the weekend. 

Tonight the artist called… what shade of silver blue is Gabriel’s eyes… shade of silver blue?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  What shade of cobalt is Eden’s?   Blinking in confusion…

The power of lasagna is phenomenal.  Any threats of violence have disappeared, I am safe.  My designers and art specialists are definitely in their comfort zone now.

The artist is having a bad hair day… probably rues the day she took on the assignment… I gather the highlights in Gabriel’s hair took her almost a full half a day… time is closing in… the book release is a week away… she is saying midweek now… the niece says it better be because she has to put the title and stuff on it… when the cover is done we are finished and she is going to put it up so everything is in place… so we are cutting it close… are we surprised?  Nah, to be expected… we are going to arrive on time.  Considering I am an Abraham… there is a first time for everything.

Alright… it is the 13th… someone asked me for a picture of myself… (altogether now, one, two , three… yuk, yuk, yuk, yuk)  my newest picture is 10 years old, can’t even find it… pictures of me are few and far in between… have been camera shy all of my life.  Special events used to be a nightmare.

Publishing day is here…………………TO BE CONTINUED

 

 ****Watch for our interview with M.A. Abraham on April 4th****

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Christine Feehan & Suzanne Brockmann-NEWS

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TITLE: Dark Nights

AUTHOR: Christine Feehan

SERIES: Dark Carpathians (re-issue of Dark Descent-with 100 new pages added and Dark Dreams)

 

NEW SERIES from Suzanne Brockmann

 

TITLE: Born to Darkness

AUTHOR: Suzanne Brockman

NEW SERIES: Fighting Destiny

SYNOPSIS:  

In the not-too-distant future, the Obermeyer Institute (OI) has made a revolutionary discovery: With special training, humans can tap into the brain’s hidden powers (think telepathy, telekinetic powers, super strength, and more). The training is strenuous, though, and it works only for those with natural potential.

Tough girl Mac has that potential, and she’s a devoted member of the OI. But there’s one rule she can’t help but bend. Her boss thinks celibacy is key to their work. Mac’s learned differently—an active sexual life enhances her powers. And when she meets Shane, a sexy former Navy SEAL, the sparks are instant. But after the two spend an amazing night together, Mac finds out that Shane’s a new recruit at the institute. How can she mix business and pleasure?

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Dr. Ivan Rusilko-An Interview

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Dr. Ivan Rusilko-Interview with The Reading Cafe

The Reading Cafe is very pleased to welcome Dr. Ivan Rusilko.

Many of our friends and readers, first “met” Dr. Ivan–when his image was used voraciously ( in a fantasy cast of characters) as the representation for the adult version of Nick Gautier from Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dark Hunter series. The funny thing–many will still see Ivan as Nick–we can’t help ourselves.

 

 

TRC: Hi Ivan and welcome to The Reading Cafe. We would like to thank you very much for taking the time to answer our questions. We would like to start with some basic background information.

Hair: Brown
Eyes:  Brown
Height: 6′
Year of Birth: 1984
Hometown: Meadville Pennsylvania
Currently Resides: Miami Beach, Florida
Personal Interests:  guitar/cooking/travel/writing/reading/photography/acrylics

Education:
Bachelor of Health Science and Biology
Graduate:  2005
Mercyhurst College, Erie Pennsylvania

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Graduated:  2010
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie Pennsylvania

Awards:
Mister International Competition:  Mister USA :  2008  (Boston )
USA Representative at Mr. World Competition:  Mister USA 2010 (Boston)
Mr. Iron City Novice Overall Champion Bodybuilding 2008

America’s Most Desirable Man: 2010 (Boston)
America’s Hottest Man:  Australia 2008

Marital Status: Single
Siblings: 1 Brother/Sister
Children: None that I know of

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TRC: Would you please tell us something about your childhood, growing up in Pennsylvania? What were your interests?  In what sports did you participate?

Dr.Ivan: My childhood consisted of hunting, fishing and hockey… the simple pleasures. To help “build character” my father insisted that I work on a farm where I bailed hay, milked cows and shoveled shit. As much as I disliked it at the time I am so thankful for it now because I really appreciate what hard work is. My family is very close and we celebrated many holidays together throughout the year and still continue to do so. I was offered the option to pursue a childhood dream, playing professional hockey, but chose to accept a position in a accelerated medical program right out of high school truncating 4 years of undergraduate education into three with my fourth year becoming my first year of medical school. I was very blessed growing up.

TRC: Do you keep in contact with any of your childhood friends?

Dr.Ivan: Yes, I do. The nice thing about coming from such a small town is that the friendships you make are solid ones.

TRC: When did you become interested in bodybuilding and why?

Dr.Ivan: I got into bodybuilding in college. I used to strive to be the biggest and strongest guy in the gym but came to find I was impressing the wrong sex, ahah. I made the decision to slim down and get myself into a more athletic look and bodybuilding was a great way to do it.

TRC: You are a very gifted athlete and bodybuilder.  Did your parents have any influence on your decision to become a bodybuilder? Who or what were your influences? Mentors?

Dr.Ivan:  My father was the one who sparked the interest in this field. He was a former bodybuilder himself and had a make shift gym in our downstairs which became my personal gym throughout my childhood years.

TRC: Please describe your daily workout ethic.  Do you follow any particular diet?  Regularly? Or only during training and preparation for competitions?

Dr. Ivan I follow a very clean and healthy diet. I cycle carbs in and out depending on what I am currently doing and the look I am going for. I created a rather unique way of exercising that combines the knowledge I gained in medical school to the trial and errors of personal experience. Exercising for me is the only time of day I get to relax!

TRC: Are you still active in bodybuilding competitions?

Dr. Ivan:  I am planning on doing a show this year… a new years resolution!!

TRC: What is your current involvement with competitive bodybuilding?

Dr. Ivan:  I am not actively doing shows but do maintain a physique that is close to contest shape. Living in Miami Beach one comes to realize that your body is in an essence your business card. With the work I do in the cosmetic, anti aging and exercise fitness medical fields I try to practice what they preach. No one should take advice about weight loss from a doctor who needs to loose weight himself!

TRC: Have you ever participated in a competition where everything went horribly wrong or something happened that was so humorous, you still talk about it every time you get together with friends?

Dr. Ivan:  I tend to not take my posing routines too serious. My first show I used the song “Sweet Dreams” song as my music and got a great laugh from the crowd. I could barley pose due to the fact I was laughing so hard. If you cant laugh at yourself someone else will.

TRC: What do you say to young body builders about the dangers and abuse of anabolic steroids?

Dr. Ivan:  I believe that everyone should be educated on what anabolic steroids are. One of the biggest problems is people using them without any knowledge about what they are.

TRC: Along with bodybuilding, you are a model and spokesperson.  A very prolific model including calendars, wineries, Gold’s Gym, GNC .  Which do you prefer-runway, print or fashion model and why?

Dr. Ivan: Honestly I love runway because it is very relaxed and I find it enjoyable. Many models find runway stressful but I love it.

TRC: What do you say to anyone involved in the modeling business and nude photo shoots? Do you adhere to a no-nude photo policy?

Dr. Ivan:  I have never done nudity but I believe that if done artistically it is a beautiful thing. The human body is a miracle and appreciating it in every way, as long as it is tasteful, should be encouraged.

TRC: As a spokesperson, you represent many companies and their products.  You have represented several nutrition and, sports and fitness products.  Have you ever refused a product or company, based on poor standards or false representation?

Dr. Ivan: I have never been approached by a company with inferior prodcuts or ones I wouldn’t personally use. Lucky me!

TRC: Do you test any of the products prior to endorsement?

Dr. Ivan: Yes, I would never pitch something that I don’t personally find effective.

TRC: Tell us something about the wine business.  Do you own your own vineyard?  Your own label?

Dr. Ivan: I wish! My father and I love to experiment with making wine and beer. We travel to various New York vineyards where we get our grapes and juicesOnce back in PA we get to work tasting and testing all sorts of different blends.

TRC: If so, are any of your wines available at the retail/restaurant level?

Dr. Ivan: Nope… just for friends and family.

TRC: You are involved with several community projects and volunteer programs such as Habitat for Humanity and the Ronald McDonald House, as well as membership on several different boards. Tell us about your most recent volunteer project.  Do you travel often for these programs?

Dr. Ivan:  Giving back is something everyone should do. I have been so lucky getting to where I am and love to help out wherever I can. The Little Lighthouse Foundation is a local children’s charity in Miami headed by a great group of philanthropists and it is always great to see what they are planning next!

TRC: You are a doctor of Osteopathic Medicine.  Would you please explain, what is involved with Osteopathic Medicine?

Dr. Ivan:  Osteopathic Physicians combine traditional western medicine with a holistic and preventative approach. They view the body as a single unit composed of Mind, Body and Spirit which work together in a harmonious relationship. They receive the same education, perform the same procedures, and can prescribe the same medications that MD’s do.
Personally, I chose to pursue this form of medicine due to my upbringing and my involvement in the fitness and nutrition fields from a young age. My father is a chiropractor and thanks to his frequent adjustments I never had any issues with headaches or back pain growing up. Being involved in sports like hockey and bodybuilding I came to appreciate how exercise and proper nutrition can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. When it came time to make the decision on attending medical school I found the osteopathic approach of “prevention first” very appealing and decided to pursue a career in this field.
A key difference is that D.O.’s have the ability to perform manipulation techniques to bones and muscles which restore optimum structure and intern optimum function. This is termed Osteopathic Manipulation.

TRC: Your father is a Chiropractor.  How much of an influence did your father have in your decision to go into medicine?  Osteopathic medicine?

Dr Ivan:  A lot. He is the reason I was so interested in the osteopathic field.

TRC: Did your bodybuilding career assist in your medical career decision, or vice versa?  How difficult was it to be actively involved with competitive bodybuilding while attending school?

Dr. Ivan:  Time management is something I have done rather effectively my whole life. Being able to plan ahead and set aside time to do things you are passionate about is a must when trying to enjoy life. If done correct you can many things.

TRC: How much of your medical practice revolves around holistic healing, sports training and alternative medicines?  Do you specialize in professional sports medicine?  If not, would you ever consider being a sports medicine specialist for a specific team or sport?

Dr. Ivan:  My whole practice is based on these modalities. Preventative medicine should be a focus of every practitioner. I would love to become involved in sports medicine more but I do love where I am at currently.

 

TRC: What do you do for fun?

Dr. Ivan:  Anything and everything. The most enjoyable thing I do though is actually photography. The hardest part is finding people who are as passionate about it as I am.

TRC: We read where you are interested in acrylics and writing.  Have you ever sold any of your artwork?  What are you currently writing?  Have you been approached to write your memoirs?

Dr. Ivan:  Yes, I have sold numerous paintings and I have also co authored my first novel… The Winemakers Dinner... which is a story based on my past triumphs and tragedies in love. I have found these two outlets extremely relaxing and mentally stimulating.

 

 

LINK to:The Winemakers Dinner

 

 

 

TRC: From your website:

Quote:  The best cosmetic procedure is a smile. 

TRC: Would you please explain the significance of this quote and why?

Dr. Ivan: Beauty is not solely about looks… personality is a large part of it. Smiling makes you seem much more inviting and pleasant to be around. I can jam all the Botox and fillers into someones face but with they don’t smile it is all for naught.

Quote:  “I view life as a book that is constantly being written with the decisions we make every day.  Some decisions create sentences while others chapters.  We must take every chance we are afforded to create the most unique story as possible.  I am currently writing the most inspiring drama, action, comedy and love story to date!!

TRC: I (Sandy) personally love and admire this statement.  It speaks volumes as to your character and life choices. I wish everyone would adhere to such a belief.  Would you please describe the ‘importance’ of this statement and why we should ALL apply this to our daily lives?

Dr. Ivan:  Thank you. Life is a beautiful thing that most people take for granted. Every day is a chance to create a memory that will live with you for the rest of your life. People tend to wait for the weekend to go crazy or have fun which results in the majority of your life going to waste. I suggest taking every opportunity you come across because sooner or later they will run out.

TRC: Do you have any regrets?

Dr. Ivan:  Everyone has regrets… if you don’t it means you have never lived. Would I change anything… absolutely not. I wear my regrets as battle scares of a life well lived.

TRC: What are you currently doing?

Dr. Ivan:  Anti aging, cosmetic, and fitness based medicine in the sexiest city in the world… Miami Beach

TRC: Have you ever appeared in any big screen movies or television programs? If so, which ones?

Dr. Ivan:  Not yet

TRC: Would you please tell us something about yourself, that we may not know?

Dr. Ivan: If I didn’t pursue medicine and modeling I would love to have become a chef or a photographer. These are my secret passions.

LIGHTNING ROUND

FAVORITE SONG: Lynard Skynard Free Bird

FAVORITE MUSIC GROUP: Pink Floyd

FAVORITE FOOD: Sushi

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING: Screwtape Letters for the 4th time

FAVORITE RESTAURANT: In Miami Beach there are too many

BOXER, BRIEFS OR COMMANDO (we always ask) 😉 Depends on the day… and the situation

DARK OR MILK CHOCOLATE: Milk

WHEN WAS YOUR LAST VACATION: Christmas

DO YOU SING IN THE SHOWER: Yes.. horribly

WHAT TYPE OF CAR DO YOU DRIVE: Jeep Wrangler and a Motorcycle!

STAR TREK or STAR WARS: Wars

FAVORITE COMEDIAN: Robin Williams

FAVORITE BOOK: Screwtape Letters

DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL DATE: Taking photographic pictures with someone who appreciates the simple pleasures in life just as much as I do 😉

WHERE DID YOU SPEND THE HOLIDAYS: In Pennsylvania with friends and FAMILY

Ivan, we would like to thank you once again, for your honest answers.  It is great to meet the real person behind the professional.  Please keep us up to date and let us know about The Winemakers Dinner. Looking forward to reviewing the book

CLICK HERE for Website: Dr. Ivan Rusilko

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