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TO LIFE

2012-03-07T13:10:00.001-05:00

Mental Wellness: Real Stories from Read Survivors

Stress can kill you, destroy your mental ability to work, deal with family issues or life in general. Stress: a 6-letter word, yet so powerful and destructive in meaning. Financial problems, work related situations, teen issues, anxiety attacks and just the felling of being overwhelmed can often cause someone to give up on life and totally implode. Drugs, alcohol, eating disorders, suicide and unknown mental disorders that have not been diagnosed cause people to do things they would ordinarily never do. Suicide runs high and running away and escaping using many different methods just as high. Yet some might try to seek help where others do not.

Mental Wellness: Real Stories From Survivors is amore than just a book written by people who gave up on life and decided to fight back. It is a book of hope, courage and pro-life. Each story is told by a true survivor allowing the reader to hear the voice of each individual author and contributor to this book. Mental illness is not something you choose but these courageous people chose to fight back and survive. “I Will Survive,” because I am worth it and I have a purpose in this world and I will continue to fight for this worthy cause called LIFE!

Let’s hear the words of the authors and their stories.

Imagine being abused and tormented as a young child. Imagine being raped at three years of age and made to do things no human being should ever endure. Imagine living your life with 30 different personalities. Imagine a family dedicated to Satanism and using their children as commodities as if they were trading stock in the market. Evil incorporated Deb’s life even in adulthood as she relates to all of us. Imagine working with so many counselors only to be used and betrayed by one who is supposed to support and help you and have the behavior rationalized and condoned by another. Hear Deb’s words and read her inner most thoughts that she shares with you. Victimized and frustrated rather than give in and take a step backwards Deb learned many valuable lessons, which she shares with the reader. Deb you definitely have a great talent for writing. This brief article is so powerful and filled with who you are and not who you were. Written with hope and in strong and positive voice you are definitely heard. This reviewer would like the honor of reading more of your work.

Children are precious and every parent is blessed when their children come into this world. Rebecca’s voice is heard next as she shares with the reader her difficulties, her miscarriage and the death of her child who was stillborn. But, despite the flip

flop behaviors caused by the medications she was given when diagnosed with PCOS, she stayed positive, strong and moved on with her life. With the support of her family, friends and a husband who would not give up on her she managed to get back on track. Read her story and shed tears for her losses as I did, and then smile at the end at her triumphs.

Next we have Mike who lives in an adult home and who learned to deal with life in a more positive way after moving into a home where the staff and residents gave and still give him the support his family could not. As he stated no longer “a spectator in his life, but a participator,” he decided to become a survivor!

The reason I have the honor of reading and reviewing this book is because of the next author Suzanne Robb. Suzanne contacted me and asked if I would be willing to review this amazing book of stories and let the world know that there are so many people who are working hard and have succeeded to get their lives back on track. Thanks Suzanne your voice is next.

Suzanne’s story is quite compelling and powerful as she learns how to deal with her suicidal tendencies and fights really hard to overcome them. Not understanding what caused her physical problems she went as most do to many different doctors for many different tests. With medications she improved but some were not compatible with others and it was long road for Suzanne before she learned what was really causing her problems and how to deal with them. Unexplained and sudden weight loss is one thing but not being able to control her emotions and constant panic attacks another. Agoraphobia and not wanting to leave home is quite debilitating. Read her story and hear her voice and know the courage that she still has and the uphill climb she works hard to maintain everyday.

Adrian suffers from depression and really had no idea all of the symptoms that encompass that word. But, moving back home after splitting with her fiancé Adrian began to move into a serious decline. Not wanting to directly confront her, her mother left a note on her computer suggesting that she get some help. Anger, rage and much more were her answer and denial another. Feeding the Black Dog as she calls Depression is not what anyone should do. With her boss telling her she had to relocate her job, with documentation from her doctors in hand, her appeal was denied. Instead of facing it she buried herself in drugs, alcohol and tobacco. Not a positive solution. Diagnosed with Depressive Illness. But, Adrian did not give in and finally decided to take the medication that would not cure her illness but allow her to live her life and become part of a new publishing company and continue writing and she should. Her words are powerful, her story is real and the end result you need to learn for yourself, as Depression did not win! Adrian Did!

R.M.’s problem is not one that has been solved but it is under control Hearing voices, loud sounds and not being able to focus his attention on anything when out with people, hearing what they say and dealing with the volume in his head has made life really difficult for him. He says it’s like having two television sets on at the same time and the blaring noises running through his head makes it hard to focus. His reality of the world is different than ours and he is dealing with medications that he have helped so far but worried that he will need more. His story is unique and his illness quite different than most. Along with his difficulty to focus for long periods and OCD he shares his story with the reader.

Inspiring, uplifting, heartbreaking yet hopeful each of the stories are different and told in the first person by the author. Each story will endear you to each writer rooting for them to succeed from start to finish as you hear their voices and read their words firsthand. Each story takes the reader back in time to where it all began so that you can experience the ups, downs and successes along with each author.

Parents can be cruel as Christine relates. One mother who abandoned her children but not before abusing them mentally and physically. As an educator this story really hits home and as an educator I would report abuse on the spot. Child abuse is inexcusable and the fact that Christine’s mother enjoyed tormenting her and her sisters causing one to run away and the other to live with their father is horrific. The story is told in her own voice the abuse is described and her pain is felt. This did not only affect her but her sisters too. Read her story and learn how she survived and enter Al-Alon to get help. Child abuse any kind of abuse is never justified.

Losing my sister last year I can understand Lauren’s pain when she lost her brother. The fear, the anger and reason so sad as her brother was diagnosed with clinical depression but this time he did not make it and how he died was devastating to the entire family especially Lauren. Alcohol was her answer including her siblings too. But, Lauren and her family decided to build on his dream to make sure that others survived and each year they hold a benefit the Frank S. Panobianco Benefit to Raise Awareness Of Mental Illness and Suicide Prevention. For anyone needing help or who wants to learn more go to www.fsl.l.lorg.

Take the journey with Elizabeth from the time she was six and raped to the abuse she took at home and much more. From an early age she drank, was depressed and lead what most would feel downhill life. But with the help of one program the Dr. Abraham Low’s Program recovery, which she still incorporates in her daily life plus Al-Anon and the support of the doctors. Forgiving her parents difficult working with mental health patients remarkable.

Charles lost his wife and things began to spiral downhill and his depression uphill. Working through it was difficult getting help the answer. But, things are still hard for him and the road to recovery has many more bends and curves to whether but with the help Mental Health Housing and now being able to live on his own he is starting to work through it. Added to that he is giving back by becoming a peer specialist.

The final two stories are Katherine and J. Depression is horrible but if you do not give in you will be more than just a survivor. Katherine’s story is truly inspiring as she got herself into an adult residence and now is working with other mental illness patients plus is the President of the adult home. Read her story.

The final story is J called the Darkness. J recalls how she started to feel depressed her life with her family, what happened at work and her rise to realizing who she is and what she was capable of doing. Medication, therapy and working in child protection her husband and four children are her reason for living and herself of course.

I have just touched on their stories but there is much more for you to learn and read. Take all of the journeys with each author and read their stories and cry along with them and smile at their joys and successes. If you need help and someone reaches out to you take it. Family Service League helps individuals for over 85 years. Learn more by going to www.fsl.li.org or call 631-427-3100. You are worth it! Life! It’s too precious to give it up. To each of the authors and survivors thank you for sharing your inner most thoughts and experiences with readers and thank you Suzanne for the honor of reading this inspiring book.
Fran Lewis: reviewer

This book gets FIVE BRIGHT SUNSHINES FOR EACH AUTHOR: NO MORE DARKNESS !

For Whom the Funeral Bell Tolls

2012-03-06T16:27:00.001-05:00

For Whom the Funeral Bell Tolls

Author: Livia J.Washburn

Key West is a tropical paradise where tourists and locals can explore the many sights, visit the historic museums or just get together at the local bar for a friendly night out. But, when Delilah Dickinson shows up with her unique group of tourist that signed up for a four-day tour you just never know what is going to happen. Yes, you got that right. This beautiful vacation haven is about to get a touch of what Delilah brings along best: Murder.

We begin with our tour guide introducing the reader to her eclectic and interesting clientele. Some young, others seniors a few quite colorful in nature and in appearance while others you just won’t believe. But, one who particularly stands out for creating quite a ruckus might just go down in Key West Tourist History. You see: Sloppy Joes is a famous bar and many locals and tourists patronize it on a daily basis. One of the main attractions locals love to discuss is Ernest Hemingway. The tour groups that sign with our Delilah look forward to their special day at Hemingway House. But, one young man named Walter Harvick starts things off with a huge loud bang and would become infamous for his rude and insulting remarks to one mane that swears he’s Hemingway’s double. What happens when these two get into it and the end result when the confrontation gets out of hand would make a great prologue for a movie on Lifetime. It is hysterical and Delilah, a real pro comes to everyone’s rescue in her own special way. She is sharp, quick on her feet and with her associate Luke she manages to get all of the tourists and even Walter back on the van safely extricating them to return to the hotel. But, there is much more to come as the hotel locks its doors at midnight and someone from inside must let the guests back in. Here is where we meet the owner Tom Bradenton.

Things heated up even more after the tour when Walter and another guest Ronnie seemed to have difficulties and his rudeness continued when telling her off and others too. Claiming to be a Hemingway buff he does not take it lightly when anyone speaks ill of the man, makes fun of his relationships or attempts to show that he/she might know more about the writer than him. As one of the young guests and Walter got into it again Delilah managed to work her magic and cast a calm spell on both of them hoping it would not wear off.

Rollie Cranston is a tour guide at the museum and frequents Sloppy Joes. Rollie seems to like Delilah and when apologizing for Walter’s behavior asked her out for a drink. Delilah was about to meet Rollie for a drink when she was approached by one of her clients who was getting close to Walter. The problem was no one could find Walter. He was nowhere to be found which of course leads the reader to think foul play.

A walk on the beach for two of her older clients would reveal something horrific. Awakened by a loud bang on her door Delilah is told to go to the beach where she learns of the death of Walter Harvick. For appearances and how the body was positioned on first assessment it appeared he followed in Hemingway’s path with his suicide. When the detective questions Delilah and learns more about Walter he begins to think otherwise. Walter was not what he appeared to be asking to rent a service of one man who was noted for drug trafficking, bringing in illegal aliens and many other crimes on Key West. But, why this man turned Walter down has not been revealed and who would want him dead? I am sure there is a long list but that too remains to be seen. As the detective beings to question those on the tour one member stands out as missing. Finding Ronnie in her room she appeared unaware of Walter’s demise.

This is not the first encounter with murder for Delilah and what I love about her is that she does not crumble or fall apart. Withering in public like a wilted flower is not her thing as the medical examiner deems it murder. The reactions of the clients vary and two disappear. Just where they are no one knows yet.

When all of the missing players come together there are several startling revelations that are made. Was Walter really killed on the beach or was there another explanation? Why did Phil Thompson lie about renting a boat to go fishing instead of telling the truth he was treasure hunting? Why did Matt omit telling the police where he was in the middle of the night and what has that got to do with Walter? Why did Ronnie try and take her own life or did someone help her along?

When Delilah decides to check out some books she finds the key to the entire murder along with a map that sets up on a course that just might have her wind up on the killer’s list. What really happened to Walter and why he was killed stems from something he learned from someone’s past. That you will have to find out for yourself as Delilah is the other detective assisting the police and I’m just the review presenting some of the facts but of course not all.

Appearances can be deceiving and kindnesses can be false and sometimes greed wins out when all else fails. Phil and Sheila learn some hard lessons and are convinced there is a treasure to be found on Key West. Ronnie needs time to deal with Walter’s death and one detective knows when he sees a smart woman and does not decline her help. Delilah always seems to be in the thick of things when murder is front and center. She’s smart, she sassy and she knows when to back off and when to strike it hard and solid to bring a murdered to justice. Is there a treasure? Who killed Walter? Would you book a literary tour with Delilah knowing you might get more than you bargained for and even a murder?

Author Livia Washburn keeps the reader guessing until our Delilah just might figure out who did it before the police. Just who the killer is you won’t believe and why even more astounding. Ernest Hemingway was a great author whose works will always keep readers glued to his printed page and so will this author. Let’s hope she brings Delilah back to solve another one. Delilah is a great character but I love Luke and his loyalty to her even though he is married to her daughter. One police detective that actually listened to her opinion and respected it, so who knows maybe they will team up for even more. Fast paced, action packed and definitely worth the read.

This book gets:

Five Hemingways

Fran Lewis: reviewer

No Remorse

2012-03-05T13:37:00.002-05:00

No Remorse

Author: Ian Walkley

Using young girls as prostitutes and for trafficking is not unusual in Mexico and in many other countries. When Lee McCloud’s best friends daughter is taken along with her best friend he is determined to get her back. But, when the ransom is supposed to be paid, the players in place something alerts Lee that there is much more involved than meets the eye. When the transfer of money is made and the kidnappers have their funds what happens next will create fear in the hearts of any parent and help kids understand the dangerous of not being supervised. As the money is given the kidnappers shove out two innocent girls as payment for the 200 thousand dollars in ransom. So, where are Sophia and Danni and who are these girls. What happens next is more than just horrifying as the fathers demand their children, the lives of the young girls are ended and the three man team finds out that things do not go as planned and their hopes for rescuing the girls diminished. With the plan foiled and the kidnappers neutralized one young man provides a limited amount of information to help them. Just where this leads them you won’t believe as the author brings us to where Sophia and many other girls are being held captive, abused and examined by a sick doctor who hopes to use them provide them to slave traders. Young girls sold to rich men, or cartels for their own pleasure is not uncommon and this story will bring to light just how far this team will go to rescue these innocent girls but will they get there in time? With the help of two others one a computer hacker and the other a British SAS soldier Lee McCloud is doing more than must racing the clock.

A young girl’s life hands in the balance as a diabolical plot is hatched by a foreign Sheik. Harvesting body parts to save another person is just part of his plan regardless of what happens to the person whose organs is being stolen.

Lee McCloud was arrested along with his team members as a result of the botched mission to save Sophia and Danni. Although most would agree his tactics made sense and the outcome really not tragic the end result proved that even when following your own direction and hoping to save two young lives you do not get any thanks even when the enemy is taken down and you had no other choice. But, the army is fickle and although the end result would be incarceration for the team and McCloud, prison time and much more deals made which benefit both sides. Forms, signed, charges disappear and Lee McCloud is no longer in the army but part of a select group handling secret missions. But, when the team is formed you won’t believe the end result.

Dishonesty is not something that the Sheik takes lightly and holding out on him even more. So, when Bill Fanning things that he can hide some assets from the Sheik he is about to learn the hard way.

When the father of one of the girls winds up in the hospital and learns where his daughter might be held and who is behind it things begin to change and heat up as McCloud finds his way to his hospital room and then to the location of where he thinks Sophia and Danni might be held. But he is called away by his new boss and cannot complete what he started again leaving Sophia to be put on display in front of a group of people waiting to buy young girls as slaves or concubines. Others as her friend Danni learned were to be tortured and raped in front of others in order to complete the ritual that they are pure and virgins when sold. The sickness of it all really makes you cringe. Sophia is paraded and then returned to the ship in order to await a fate that would cause her death. Sophia is being kept alive in order to save the Sheik’s father they would take her lungs in order for him to live and those not sold at auction would meet the same fate as they set up a program to save the elderly and their own killing the young without remorse.

Mac is now in France and learns the truth behind his new job and what these men do. Punishing those who support terrorism by taking their

Assets from their bank accounts how resourceful. Agency for Seizure of Terrorist Assets is goes directly into the bank accounts of those that are funding the terrorists. What he learns about the operation just might help him safe Sophia and Danni but what he has to do in the meantime as to help bring down some dangerous people who were funding more than just drugs and slave trade. With the President’s approval and permission they were told to take twice what they could prove they took from the account of the terrorists and put in our accounts.

There are many subplots in this book including two other operatives that take out a well known drug dealer, Mac and his team who are working to take money from accounts and the seriousness of that happened to Danni at the hand of her captors. Slave trade, drug trafficking, prostitution, money stealing and the organ harvesting killing young people to save others. The author literally explains how the team takes the money the art of hacking into accounts and their methods of getting the job done. Author Ian Walkley takes the reader inside the world of slave trading, organ stealing, and drug trafficking and government deceit.

Tally a computer hacker in this organization understands the gravity of the situation while raiding the bank account of the terrorist in questions you can feel the electricity and the energy rise when she enters the account and takes 9 million dollars and transfer to their account. At the end she transferred 87 million. After breaking into the mark’s room, getting the account numbers and token tags they cleaned him out of 150 million dollars. Deleting the evidence easy for her and using a perfume body spray on the keyboard to destroy her prints really interesting to know and learn. The fact that Sophia has managed to survive so long but Danni’s fate has yet to be revealed knowing there are many more children that are in danger and that this man cares less for young human lives.

Lies come out and Mac and Tally learn more about some of the players on the Princess Aliya. Able to hack into the computers of those on the boat and one engineer that finds out what happens when he does not follow orders there are many more lives at stake, many having their own agendas and the Sheik’s father murdered in front of watchful eyes and two girls who still have not been found. Sheriti is the Khalid’s personal trainer or property and just who she really might be has yet to be revealed as we learn more about each of the characters and their private agendas. But, what is Sheriti going to do with her information about Lee? But, somehow Lee managed to save Bill’s wife and son and the rest has yet to be played out as it is hard to tell which side everyone is on and who can and cannot be trusted. More kidnappings, more murders, hidden truths and more betrayals and so many players in this novel that you won’t know who will win and who loses until the very end. Just what is in the canisters that everyone wants and what role does Israel play? Why does Khalid think he holds all the cards? Just what will Mac and Tally do next?

Mac and Tally are so opposite yet they blend in their own way. Tally is the only female on this CIA team. She is smart, distrusts Mac and dislikes everything that he does and stands for. His wild antics and his rebel attitude make him a great character. Khalid loves himself, his life and his millions and has no idea who is taking what from him and the truth about his father’s death. He is careful, in exile but not that careful to avoid what Tally and Mac plan to do to him, his wealth and much more. But, the two innocent teens traveling alone have still not be found. The Saudi Prince named Khalid responsible has other plans for Sophia and is hoping to attain uranium canisters belonging to the late Saddam Hussein. Nuclear havoc, secret agencies and slave traders Mac will stop at nothing to find Sophia even pretending to be married to Tally.

Added to the mix is the Khalid’s Yubani resort that really harbors more than just luxury for the rich. Why has Mossad planted a spy in his bed? What about poor Sophia makes her special and treated better than the rest? But, will they find the two girls in time or will more atrocities happen?

Who is really behind the plot to get the canisters, destroy Mecca and the rest you won’t believe it. Betrayals, cover-ups, lies and one man who thinks he’s immune to the penalties of others. Who lives? Who dies? Who can be trusted and which have kill, maim lie and cheat and just show NO REMORSE!

This is one book you will not be able to put down and one character named Mac you hope will come back for more. Slave trading, human trafficking and corruption are just some of the issues brought to light in this Five Star novel.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

In Sheep's Clothing reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-03-01T09:06:00.001-05:00

In Sheep’s Clothing

Author: Edward P. Ciesielski, JR.

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

The men who serve our country deserve the honor and respect of the America people and those they serve. When they come home after their tour they should receive all the support, help and financial assistance to assimilate back into their community and support their families. Some never make it home and others come home fraction of what they were before. Lives are lost during a war it is unavoidable. Tow or more sides fight to win and casualties are incurred and the war continues along with the fighting. No matter how you turn it the end result for some is inevitable: Death. Some pay dearly with their lives and others in different ways. One man, Cpl. Paul Pinski paid the ultimate price when he used his body as a human shield to stop a hand grenade from exploding on others and saved many lives. Author Edward P. Ciesielskim JR. begins his debut novel with an inside and up close description of the mission that cost Paul his life. Taking the reader into the trenches, the jungle and hearing the communications between the men you can picture their final moments as if you were there yourself. But, this is just the beginning of this powerful novel. Although Paul would be awarded, posthumously the Medal of Honor for his act of heroism it does not bring him back to his family. Taking the reader on a short journey back in time you learn about Paul and Lucy, their relationship and their upcoming knowledge that they were going to become parents.

Captain Matthew Kilmun was his commanding officer. Hardnosed, a West Pointer, and army bound, would not take anything less than being on the front lines. Offered a high- powered position at General Motors he resigned in order to serve his country. Paul never returned home and neither did his commanding officer. Paul died on June 6, 1944 at 12 noon at the exact time his son, Alec came into this world at 6: A.M. in America.

Lucy was elated when giving birth to her son. An army wife and excited and hoping Paul would come home to meet his son. But, no army wife, no one wants to open the door and find a soldier holding that fateful note or telegram stating that your husband, son or daughter was killed in action. Lucy was fragile and could not handle life without Paul and went insane. Locking her away was the only solution.

Victor Pinski was Paul’s adopted son who came to live with them hoping he would not have to serve if they realized he was a parent. Victor was not the best kid in the world. He was smart, artistic and definitely cunning and here is where our story begins. Lucy learns to cope with Paul’s death and soon after she is released from the hospital she gets a job as a waitress and meets someone and marries. Thinking about her life and marry Luke made Lucy happy. Luke being a top mechanic wanted her to stop working and focus on taking care of her sons but Lucy loved working and refused knowing that she wanted and needed her independence. Both of her sons were smart Alec, the younger was friendly, manipulative and knew the value of a dollar. Alec made some fast friends one being Herman the bookmaker as his courier but not for long. Alec and Victor were basically two of a kind. When Alec wanted in on Victor’s antics he had no choice to relent to his demands. Alec was quick and fit right in with the gang and all of their antics. But, sometimes even innocent fun can turn ugly as they decided to jump a train and waited too long to return, lost their way, ran into a man who decided to beat on them, killed the man buried him and were found by the police when Luke called them. Little did they know that one of their gang would confess to the murder, show them where the body was and start a chain of events that just might send them to jail? The investigation is not handled the same it would be now. The officers and detectives are called in from different areas whether they wanted to be there or not. As the victim is identified and they realize he was a vet many of the officers remember the wars they fought and the battles they encountered. As Bloodsworth remembers the POW’s and the Japanese another remembers Normandy. Filled with information and research about WWII and the lives that intersected as a result this book is truly unique and keeps the reader wondering what will happen to the seven boys who killed the man and what will happen next?

Questioning done and the evidence assessed and the end result to release the boys’ stating the murder was in self- defense. Then things change for the family and another child is born. But, Alec realizes the change in the dynamics of his family and this young man “In Sheep’s Clothing,” is hiding his venomous side from the world. Two brothers both starting out with the same mother and different fathers yet bonding. Both having troubled pasts and presents but when Luke comes into their mother’s life things appear to straighten out but Alec has his own agenda in mind and his true feelings are heard when shared by the author. Attention, the main attraction the one in the limelight until Terri was born. Alec decided that she needed to be eliminated and how he manages this is horrific. Getting away with it frightening but creative. Lucy goes crazy again but this time she cannot be contained even in the hospital. A dangerous outburst proves deadly and one doctor would be haunted forever and one son seems to have adjusted with no problem. Victor falls prey to the wrong group and decides to take the easy way out and winds up facing the barrel of a gun. Detective Jimmy Saukas made a judgment call and the end result will end the life of another one of Luke’s children. But, the detectives that handle telling Luke do not realize their words and the end result is anything but what you would expect. Every step of the way you learn more about the close-knit family among in the police and fire departments. He learns about the cover-ups, the corruption and the ties that bond them together. It seems that there is no accountability when things happen even when Lucy is murdered under the watchful care of a noted doctor.

Prejudice’s ugly head shows its face when a black firefighter begins at the same house as Luke but partners up with him despite what the others say and do. A ten- alarm fire, which could have avoided his death, occurs and once again Alec loses the only constant in his life his father. But, the story is far from over. When Alec moves in with his uncle and goes off by himself he learns a hard lesson when meeting up with some rough gang members.

Alec Bazey never forgets anyone or anything. His revenge is swift, without remorse and painful. In front of his family and real friends he is kind, warmhearted, helpful, caring and pretends to be forgiving. In reality he is a coldhearted and cruel but he was unstoppable and his next step was becoming a police officer. His career as a police officer, the retribution he enacted on others and his final act will stun the reader as Alec raises the top and manages to create a persona that the world accepts. Manipulator, impersonator, coldhearted, justifies his actions in his own mind and validates them; the ending is just the beginning. There is much more to come. Lies, betrayals, murders, cover ups and revenge so well planned the victims never see it coming and this author is the master at creating the illusions, the many masks of Alec and the man he has become. A character so evil and so filled with hate he believes his own actions and enacts justice his own way. Alfred Hitchcock and Patterson never created an ending so diabolical as author and master of the twists and turns and unexpected Edward P. Ciesielski, JR.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Zero Balance

2012-02-29T07:51:00.001-05:00

Zero Balance

Author: Ashley Fontaine

Defiled, attached, spirit mutilated, raped: Audra would never be the same. A young CPT devoted to her job and about to be promoted to minority partner of an accounting firm, but at what cost. Dedication at what price and at your own risk? Managing partner Olin Kemper had his own agenda in mind when meeting with Audra. The end result a blood-riddled body covered in black and blues, bruises, torn and tattered clothing and an inner being, soul forever raped as well. Winscott and Associates had its own form of sorority or fraternity initiation held in their own backroom. Silence is often golden. Rewards are pricy and others will come back at you and the payment quite dear. Audra will bide her time, make her move just when things fall right into place. Accountable to None is about one young girls journey back into life and how she will make those responsible for what happened Accountable to All. Zero Balance picks up where Accountable to None ended with Audra’s rise to the top of the company. Five years later Audra would serve what they deserve and if I were you I would not want to be invited to this party. Revenge is great when you know how to orchestrate your plan and take down those that deserve your wrath. There were many that worked in the accounting firm that she now runs who crossed her one who raped her and others who went along with what Olin Kemper did. Recounting her life before all of this happened, where she was now Audra Tanner would execute the rest of her plan. Recounting her life, what happened to her as a child, her parents, losing a child the author reminds the reader of why she enacted the revenge on those working in accounting firm. Where will she go from here and what will happen when the balance of the scale tips in another direction and just what is that Zero Balance?

Crushing dreams that are vivid and do not allow her to sleep or rest though the night even though Olin is in prison the past seems to becoming back into her present. Business prospects falling through, clients leaving and going with other firms and only one other person stepping up to plate to try and rebuild what was once a thriving accounting firm. The author reminds the reader of what Audra’s past was like and for those who did not read Accountable to None you will learn about her life before she took over this company, her wronged relationships, her fall out with her family and the loss of her child.

The author continues with the first character named Piper who seems to have a vendetta to carry but first she needs to get what one unsuspecting doctor has that will help her carry out her plan. Pretending to be a reporter for a new start up magazine called Reptiles Today our elusive “Piper,” lures her way into the office of Dr. Moore whose primary goal in life is to create anti-venom for anyone bitten by a poisonous snake. Armed with several syringes and one filled with Ambien she manages to enter his office, fill his coffee cup when she feigns felling sick and knocks the poor man out. Removing several vials was easy deciding to make sure he never woke up her revenge. Not because he did anything to her but because he reminded her of someone else that was cruel to her and brought back memories of that she chose to forget so breaking the glass on the cages of the venomous snakes not really a hard choice as she leaves the same way she came unnoticed. But, our mystery killer is not done yet as her next victim is Robert. Robert Fulton had to die. He was the next victim of this avenger. Anyone who came in the direct path of convicting Olin and making sure he stayed in prison would have to be eliminated. Robert’s body was found but the connection to the doctor’s death would be made in a unique and unexpected way. Next victim was Audra’s assistant who thought she was meeting with someone from the Castle where she hoped she was going to have her wedding. Instead just like the doctor she was duped by our delusional killer and eliminated. The killer did not waste any time and the victims never thought to check her credentials. The doctor glad to have someone doing a story on his research and Gabrielle hoping to sign a contract for her wedding. Next, we hear from our killer in jail Olin who has plans of his own for our Piper and who recounts how she became and equity partner and her husband’s relationship with Ralph. Blackmail goes a long way and suicide made it easier. Piper is crazy and thinks that by eliminating everyone in Olin’s way she will have him for herself. Just why Ralph killed himself with a little help from Olin you have to read for yourself because an incriminating tape left in Nick’s car would explain it all.

Audra gets a call from Gabby’s future husband and does not realize that she is the killer’s next victim. Thinking she may have cold feet about her marriage she shrugs off the call and tells Jeff where she was planning to go and with who. But, Steve Ronson, Audra’s detective boyfriend would get a call from a prison guard that would change the complexion of the investigation and hopefully lead them to the murderer. Remembering something about Dr. Moore’s death helps Steve learn more about Robert’s. Lies, betrayals and deceits and one dangerous killer whose venom is more deadly than the poison she stole from the doctor, the snakes that bit him to death and the lethal dose she gave Robert.

Author Ashley Fontaine goes inside the mind of a serial killer who feels justified to kill for love and the mind of one man who feels wronged and cannot believe he has to pay for a murder over 30 years old. Each character’s motives, reasons, justifications and thoughts are told to the reader as he/she commits the acts they feel are justified on those that wronged them. At times the killer or another character or flashback adding to the suspense of the novel and the dramatic and frightening conclusion that you will never expect interrupts these thoughts. The author reveals to the reader the links among the many characters, the tormented mind of Piper and her rationale for what she did. But, was she alone and who was really behind the killings, the revenge and the final outcome for so many. Audra learns that her assistant Gabrielle is missing and the end result not only endangers someone close to Audra but others too. The lies, betrayals, murders, revenge and cast of characters that are so intertwined and the end result you just won’t believe. As Steve learns that Audra is in trouble and the truth behind who really wants everyone dead, include Audra is revealed you will learn that not everything and everyone is what they appear to be. You will learn that sometimes those that are good follow a different path to take care of the evil and the bad. Snake venom, poisonous personalities and a group of people that needed to reduce the balance and the books to ZERO before all is said and done. But, there is much more as the ending will leave you wondering what is next for some of our characters and what will happen when the final chapter is written. Once again author Ashley Fontaine pens a novel so intricate, so tense and so spellbinding that once you start reading you won’t stop until you find out who takes the final blow.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

One Story that needs to be told

2012-02-29T04:25:00.002-05:00

Bristol boyZ Stomp

Author: Doreen M. MCGETTIGAN

Division of numbers is not only the end result of a math problem or the quotient you get when completing the operation. Separations and divisions come when people are biased, facts are tainted and information hidden. One night would change the dynamics of a small town. Loyalties would be questioned and friendships shattered while truths might not be told. Doreen McGettigan had just spent a night out with her two daughters. While enjoying the evening they decided to have a psychic reading, which proved disturbing for Doreen. Relating the event and sharing the psychic’s words the author has an unsettling feeling based on something he says. Driving home with her daughter Joan and pulling into her driveway she sees her sister-in-law Birna pulling out. Concerned at the late hour she stops and questions where she is going. Learning her destination is a hospital and her brother David injured she insists on driving her. Neither Birna nor Doreen understands the message relayed stating that this kind and wonderful father, husband and brother had been in a fight. When the author relates the events and the chronology of the fight as she learns it the attacker and the situation becomes more unbelievable and hard to grasp.

Doreen is a reporter for the Boss County Courier and hopes someone at the paper can give her the information she needs and fill in the missing blanks. Arriving at the hospital the staff takes a while before realizing David is a patient and the doctor in charge seems aloof, clinical and quite unfeeling when presenting her diagnosis.

David and his two closest friends were at band practice for a fundraiser-taking place on Sunday of the upcoming weekend. Driving home from practice he spied a car following him. Stopping to find out what the driver wanted and thinking he knew whom it was proved both dangerous and deadly. As David rolled down his window to speak with the other driver he never expected what happened and could not I am sure understand why since the person was a childhood friend.

As Doreen relates the events even further and learns the identity of the attacker from her daughter and the news media focuses on the story anger wells up inside of her, fear that she will no longer have her brother in her life and questions that no one seems to be able to answer. Jimmy Galione was arrested for the assault of David. While David lies hooked to machines the police was questioning his two friends.

Days and nights pass with family and friends arriving at the hospital and Doreen and Birna hoping beyond all hope for a miracle. But, sometimes the only miracle is not the one you would expect when life support fails and the patient is being moved to another hospital to have his organs harvested to save the lives of others. This would be his final act of kindness and wishes for people who would live because of David.

In order to get to know the author and understand her lack of relationship with her parents she relates her story from the beginning, her marriage at the age of 16 and the birth of her first child at 17. Doreen managed to rise above the lack of interest of her parents and realized her own potential as she became a reporter for a newspaper, had three amazing children and grandchildren. Even when David became ill as a child she stepped up and took care of him and the others when chicken pox invaded her home and she realized she was the true answer to everyone’s prayers. With a mother who had many marital difficulties and several brothers who needed stability and guidance Doreen managed to handle it all. Sharing his life and how he met Birna makes the story come to life even more as we now find out what really happened to David.

David’s death was a result of road rage, gang mentality and murder. All three apply when you read the definitions provided by the author on pages 49 and 50. Jerry Reeves was man who liked cruising for someone to fight or bully. David gave them that excuse of opportunity. Save driving was not something this man advocated or adhered too. When David decided to stop for a stop sign on Wilson Avenue little did he know it would be his last. Safety is something that David prided himself on when it came to driving. Following the laws, not speeding or drinking while driving was something he always did. Jerry found it irritating that David stopped at the stop sign and when the fight ensued and the end result was that he lost, he got his two friends to help him beat David until he was unconscious and his two friends Joey and Anthony too.

Going home and realizing what happened brought the situation into perspective for Doreen yet Birna did not seem to process what happened when concerned about returning a video. Everyone reacts to tragedy in different ways and Doreen decided to recue herself to her room. How could anyone think this was pure Road Rage as reported in many papers when he was beaten to death with a hammer? How do you deal with the funeral? Doreen describes the inner fight within herself. I can identify with her feelings when my sister died last year and I still have no idea what the real timeline of events were from the moment she fell over until the ambulance was called. She died of a heart attack and TBI but no one knows why a healthy person who got a clean bill of health the day before just keeled over and had a massive heart attack.

Memorials were held including a heartbreaking vigil on Wilson Avenue. Arrests were made. Jimmy rearrested for homicide and conspiracy charge and Jerry for murder or homicide. But, when Jimmy was released on bail something snapped in the author and she became disconnected from her family, children and life in general. Rehashing the events, seeing David’s car and trying to rationalize why the police were stalling in arresting the men in the second car. The Jerry and Jimmy would be tried together and seeing their families would not be easy and not saying anything even harder. But, Jimmy’s girlfriend decided to harass and yell at Birna in a shopping mall. Why in the world would someone be so callus and cold?

Frustrations set in and although the trial is about to being some of the murder suspects have not been charged but the Assistant DA Matt Weintraub and the Police Chief asked that Doreen be patient. The anger, frustration, the tears and the uncertainty all come through loud and clear as you hear her words as she relates the story of her brother’s death and much more. The trial begins and the lawyers state their cases in their opening arguments and a division begins within the town of Bristol and in the courtroom itself. Lawyers for the two defendants blaming everyone for the murder except their clients. The Assistant DA stating exactly what happened and who was to blame. Which side would the jury believe? How could the lawyers think that David and his two friends started a fight that would cost him his life? Just how twisted was their thinking even if it was their job.

A town split throughout the trial. Lines drawn more witnesses taking the stand and stating their fears while testifying including the woman who heard and saw the man with the red sweatshirt beating David and begging for his life and did not come forward out of fear. With the help of the Network of Victim Assistance and their support by financially and their presence in court Doreen and her family were able to work through much of their anger.

The jury deliberated for 15 hours and the two were found guilty. But, what happens at the sentencing will surprise the reader and definitely angered Doreen. The judge deliberated the jury’s verdict and decided on his own brand of justice for the two murderers. What the sentence was I won’t reveal in this review because you need to read it for yourself and decide whether you agree with it or not. Following the sentencing the author made sure her voice was heard by the courts, prison system and anyone who was ever involved in the case in order make sure these two would enjoy prison life for a long time. But, what happens next and the evidence the defense claims it has that just might overturn or reduce the sentences is frightening and disheartening to say the least. Jimmy Galione is drunk; drop out and unworthy of the lead in a pencil or the ink his name is printed with in this book. He and his friend Jerry confessed to the murder and the crime. He and his friend bragged about what they did in words and in high fives. Followed by the author’s relationship with her mother and what caused them to be estranged and the things her mother did to her plus her issues with her brother Nick and the sexual assault she endured at the hands of his father as a young girl. Doreen survived more than anyone should.

The ending is so powerful and the faith she finally finds in her life, the love of her family and the blessings David sends from heaven in grandchildren, nieces and nephews cannot make up for his loss but strengthens her within. Finding John in her life and reconnecting with her brother Nick more powerful than words can say. The poem at the end says it all and sums it up perfectly. What happens to the two that killed David you will have to read for yourself as you the reader decides was justice really served? The pain in your heart will never really go away but the blessings that mount up will fill your heart with joy. One judge that needs to look himself in the mirror and really see what others see, one District Attorney never follows through and two families who will definitely pay the ultimate price some day when judgments are handed down from above. This is a well- written, powerful, emotional and heartbreaking dedication of David Albert.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

To Doreen: What you have accomplished be proud of. Never give up on yourself you have too much to offer. Keep writing and never give up!

Home Schooling: You Decide

2012-02-27T16:38:00.001-05:00

Homeschooling: Why and How

Author: Gail Nagasako

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

There are many schools of thought regarding homeschooling your child or children. Some feel that in order for children to receive a well-rounded and better education they need to have more structure and guidance that can only be provided by a parent equipped with the right resources and curriculum at home. Others feel that children need to be able to socialize and interact with their peers and learn handle the stress and everyday life of Public Education. This reviewer is going to base her thoughts, comments and views strictly on what the author has written, the validity of the research and the information presented in this book. Explaining at length how to create a program aimed at and geared to the specific educational needs of your child is what the author imparts in this book.

Before determining whether to begin homeschooling your child you as a parent need to determine and decide if this is right for your child and your family. Researching the materials needed and resources as well as being able to teach and develop a curriculum geared to your child’s educational needs are paramount. Plus, there are legal requirements that must be adhered too. State compliance, textbooks, curriculum needs and preparing for standardized tests that are required take a real commitment on your part.

I need to begin by saying that I taught for over 30 years in the NYC Public Schools in the same school as a reading and writing staff developer and a specialist working with children with learning problems. Working in small groups and even in a classroom I learned and did adapt my program and the curriculum to meet the needs of every student in my class and in the reading program. I even arrived 2 hours early on most days to work with students in need of more instruction. That being said I can understand to a degree the author’s concerns related to the Public Schools but not every classroom or school is the same. Socialization has become a serious issue as some children often follow in the wrong footsteps learning to fit into the mold of the more popular kids in the school even if they are difficult or behavior problems. Homeschooling as the author states helps to remove this problem and create a more positive path for their children to follow. Funding is another issue wherever you go and teachers have to deal with larger class sizes and some with too many students of diversified backgrounds. But, they should be trained and prepared to handle these differences before stepping inside a classroom. Many obstacles have to be overcome and the author’s purpose in speaking out and writing about homeschooling is not to sell you on the program but to give the reader an informed understanding and viable alternative to public education. The author does not state that you should remove your child from the public or private school setting but learning about homeschooling will provide another way to give your child a more positive experience. Home-based education is the accurate term. As a home-school consultant working with parents whose children are having problems in school she tries to instill confidence and relieve them of the stress they are experiencing.

Beginning with a brief questionnaire the author asks the reader to answer five simple questions before going any further into the book.

1. At least five things you are good at doing?

2. At least five things you love doing?

3. At least three things you are not good at doing?

4. At least three things you do not like to do?

5. Where and from whom you learned each thing?

Next she relates how she hopes this book will help inform the reader. Questions asked of each parent before beginning relate to socialization, academics and instruction. The first topic discussed in Chapter One is Why Home School and the basics. Beginning with Traditional Schools: What, Why and How Schools teach begins this chapter. The author begins by stating that most schools follow a government-mandated curriculum geared to preparing students to pass standardized tests. Stating children are instructed in the same things at the same age except for the gifted and talented. It seems that the schools as I read it formulate a prescription that each child must follow or a prescription filled for all students at each different level leaning no room for individualization or gearing to specific needs. Also stating the difficulties providing an educational program geared to working with children with diverse families and backgrounds seems to be one reason why she advocates for home schooling. She continues to state that students attending private schools are only there because they presented problems in the public schools. This point I have to disagree with as my brother went to private school and so did my niece and they were definitely not discipline problems. Their parents wanted them to receive a well-rounded academic education as well as a religious one. There are many private schools in the area where I live now and where I lived before where parents want their children to receive more than just a secular education. I do know from first hand experience that in many private schools if a students presents a problem that are not going to be able to continue. On page 4 the author relates to the parent many basic questions they need to ask themselves when deciding about the pros and cons of public education related to many areas.

Socialization is the next area-discussed beginning with the ways children learns to interact with others in a wide range of settings. Home- schooled children are exposed to adults who model the right way to behave and are there to answer their questions on the spot. In a public school environment the author feels that children will learn the same things in an adverse environment that might carry over to other areas and at home. There are some or many children that find it difficult dealing with bullies, hard to handle students and would benefit from a safer and more nurturing environment but you can only protect kids so much and then when going to work as an adult or even in college they will encounter different types of people and have to learn how to handle difficult situations.

Academics are the next area presented. Explaining the rationale behind when children should be taught, when it is tool early and why schools do not provide the right programs and discipline as well as the successes of alternative schools plus the positives of learning at home. Describing her own experiences in the public schools and how son’s successes ads credibility to what she is saying. She also includes the research of many child developers and testimonials of parents and teachers that have been a part of a home school program. Living where she does have its advantages making it easier to do a wider ranger of activities not only indoors but outdoors too. Children that are traditionally and home-schooled participated in the program that she set up giving everyone a chance to judge it for themselves. Hearing her son Thumper discuss his experiences and telling about how he felt going to public school for the first time at age 13 is interesting and telling. You hear parents relate their success in their own words. Not all of the children were home school throughout their entire educational experience. The final section in Chapter One includes 64 reasons why we home-school.

Chapter two gets down to the basics. From the legalities, to the formal curriculum you can buy to the way you can create a program for you child to learn at his/her own pace the research is extensive and there and the questions we all have are answered. Homeschoolers have the right and freedom to choose the program for their child and education is not a race to the finish. She states that these students often outscore those that attended public education. If testing is required in your state then you need to get the materials required to help your child pass but this can be done better she states at home where your child will be well rested, well fed and can prepare at his or her own pace. Many other questions are asked and answered such as if you home school your child can they go to high school? What about college? What about if a child is labeled as learning disabled and how is that handled? What happens if the child gets bored and will I go crazy staying home all day? The freedom to go out and do your errands is yours because you can home school at child any time during the day for any length of time you choose. She does address what happens if a parent has to work and how they can find a program that might work. There are many other questions answered in Chapter Two and one basic one that is well addressed is what happens if your child, like any other child does not like a subject, hates something or does not want to learn what he/she is supposed to learn. Read pages 66- 69 to understand how these concerns are handled. If you child needs a more structured program or checklist that her son created for himself to complete each week then do it. There are many different curriculums that you can implement: Those created by other people, which you can buy but can be expensive or those created by you and your child. Read pages 70- 94 to read about the curricula she used and others. On page 95 you can learn more about the legalities. The final chapter deals with where to start and how to find out where you are. Start with the questionnaires on pages 102- 110 and you will have a much clearer understanding of what it takes to begin your own home school program and much more. Added to this chapter are resources, appendixes that will help you understand your role in a positive light plus endnotes, the author’s bio and important resources on the net and books that you can refer to before and after beginning your program. Whether you decide to try home schooling or whether you are skeptical and need to be more informed and are not sure this is one book that is well documented, well researched and a great resource that will definitely assist in helping you decide the path you want to take for your children and the type of educational programs you want them to experience. There is no right or wrong in this. It is up to you to decide and up to you to make sure that your child is educated whether at home, in a public or private school setting or a combination of both when the time feels right.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Beautiful: IS DANGEROUS

2012-02-27T10:07:00.002-05:00

Mr. Glamour

Richard Godwin

Beautiful Can Be Dangerous

Many target the rich and wealthy just because they have money and others because they want what they have. Some pay heavy prices for being in the public eye and others just because they are glamorous and filthy rich. The world of fashion is exclusive to some who can afford the better designer labels. Knowing the ins and outs of fashion is not easy and those that are privileged to learn the inner secrets of this year’s latest designs are truly fortunate. One man calling himself Mr. Glamour is a fashionista to say the least. A killer with great taste in design.

Larry Fornalski had one enemy too many but his wife Martha states he was a perfect husband and businessman. Benjamin Miller lives in a sterile environment cleansed and sanitized by his wife Gertrude. Benjamin Miller’s life was organized by this woman and even his two children were programmed into doing the right thing and never interfering with the lives of their parents. Frightening and too stark to say the least. Brian Sampson enjoyed having some side fun in his life while his wife Mirabelle drank away her days and waited for him to come home.

Chief Inspector Jackson Flare and Inspector Mandy Steele were assigned the case. Flare looked almost demonic to most and Steele just learned to deal with him. His strange demeanor, imposing yet distorted face would turn most women off to even being seen with him no less working with this hardcore man. In between the author shares the killer’s thoughts, choice of weapon and mode of killing. Although graphic and definitely terrifying you actually get to know the killer first hand as if you had a front row seat to a play or the murder.

Sometimes taking the long way around is the right way as Martin Gould was about to learn. One hot night and looking forward to dinner with his wife lots of money heading his way he never saw it coming as he felt something hard and sharp cut through his body. Larry was a solid citizen; Martin seemed to be the same. Could just being rich be the primary motive for the killer? Added to the bizarre turn of events the killer branded the victim with the letter B and used a knife to cut his Adam’s apple forcing him to eat it.

Black velvet from head to toe as the author gives the reader just a brief glimpse at the killer who will become known as Mr. Glamour. Each piece of his attire precisely matches and every movement perfectly orchestrated. Everything in its place and yet not so really perfect as the killer filled with hate and distain take a waxen figure of Christ and destroys it. The killer’s thoughts present at the start of each chapter where he reflects upon his feelings for humanity.

Gertrude Miller is married but does not feel the same affection for Ben, as he would like. Almost like a wooden or stone statue their bedroom time is mechanical and cold. Martin Gould is dead the mode of mutilation not the same as the first victim but nonetheless lets the police know that our killer’s work is not done. As the investigation moves ahead the police have no real motive for the killings yet it seems apparent that rich businessmen, lawyers and those in the limelight are the chose victims. Added to the mix is one sick and perverted photographer who enjoys debasing his women and his subjects.

Flare is a really brutal man whose characteristics are quite distinct. One side of his face is normal while the other permanently scarred and disfigured, as is his personality. One side of him Dr. Jekyll and the other definitely as mean and dangerous as Mr. Hyde. Why is this killing targeting those who love glitz and flamboyancy? Why the Glamour Set?

Not able to score because his favorite prostitute is out of town and on vacation Brian Samson goes home. Let’s meet Paul and Max who might give the reader some glimpse into the world the world of glamour as they discuss the murders, the victims and their wives. Just who they are and how they fit in still remains to be seen as Martha and Sandra lunch and commiserate about their being widows and they ponder what to do with their new found wealth. Martha and Larry’s relationship was anything but picture perfect. Larry was a cruel and mean man but rich. Martha enjoyed the material things she just did not enjoy Larry. Sandra and Martin’s marriage was not what you would see the lens of a camera you would want to have copies made of. Both women widows would now be able to bask in the sunshine of wealth both women being watched. Gertrude Miller was not what she seemed to be. Her true character and her true persona hidden behind the walls of her cold and stark house yet when enticed and compensated she is someone else. Just what she does when found out will definitely startle the reader and make you wonder just how manner killers are there and who is behind the serial killings and why. Camera: Take the picture. What do you see in the window of the lens? The frightening images and the events will definitely keep the reader on edge as author Richard Godwin takes you deep inside the mind of a serial killer who is definitely quite unique, different and more than just dangerous. Lights, Camera and Shoot!

But, the murders are not exclusive to our killer there are others that take place for various reasons. Brian Samson wants anyone but his wife. The killer speaks and explains his reasons for destroying what so many see within the mirror. But, his face still remains masked and a mystery. Martha Fornalski and Sandra Gould we find death the same way so many other victims did. But, the killer was far from done as he decided to kill a model and several more branding them, mutilating them and carrying away a body part for his own special collection. Reenter Paul and Max two close friends whose wives have secrets of their own. One friend who spills information that might cost another his freedom and life making the reader wonder just, which one of these men might be the killer or is there more than one? Flare relieves his childhood and his disfigurement in his mind and seeks revenge on the man who inflicted the pain. But, someone beats him to it. Steele has an inner desire to explore her own fantasies and just what her secret is might bring the killer to her doorstep too. The past becomes Steele’s present and memories come flooding back but that does not stop her from moving ahead with her own special agenda.

A tormented killer seeks revenge on anyone that comes in the way. A memory and person from the past pays for what was done as a child. Many others are killed before all is said and maybe not so done. One killer who takes body parts as trophies of his work and possibly much more and one who takes pride on keeping things neat and clean. Just what will happen next and will they ever put the two cases together and catches the killers?

Glamour, money, fame, acceptance and entry into an exclusive club were what one killer wanted. Just who was preparing body parts for dinner and who ate them in order to be empowered with the mind, body and more of the victims you won’t believe it if I told you. Mr. Glamour is out there and you do not want to find out what happens when meeting this deranged killer. The reason behind the murders more than frightening and the fear in Steele’s eyes when confronted with her own truths bone chilling. More than one killer and several motives for murder. Rich, famous, above the rest, enjoys the finer things in life, not just women but men too. Who paid the price for loving the rich life and who if anyone was spared? Mr. Glamour can and does enter the mind of anyone. Just who and will anyone be next only author Richard Godwin knows for sure and of course Mr. Glamour. Beware before looking in the mirror: Images are deceiving. This is one outstanding novel written by one amazing author. Characters that will give you nightmares when you are awake and asleep, a killer so diabolical you might want to exam what you eat before eating it, and another so deranged reality is gone for good. What is next? Detective Steele and Detective Chief Inspector Flare have just started I am sure there is much more to come.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Piano Lessons reviewed by fran lewis

2012-02-23T12:47:00.001-05:00

Piano Lessons

Author: Anna Goldsworthy

Reviewed By Fran Lewis

Memoirs are really quite unique as they reflect the inner most thoughts of the person writing them as they create a world for the reader comprised of their most memorable moments, important events and their passions shared. Anna Goldsworthy’s world at an early age was her love of the piano, music and pleasing her family. Striving for acceptance and hoping that she would be the best at a young age she dedicated her life to the piano, the music and becoming one in the same with her keyboard. Playing the piano and feeling the emotions evoked by the composition, the message that the composer is relating to the pianist and interpreting and presenting it listeners requires more than just a basic understanding of the piano, the composition and the composer. Eleonora Sivan was the woman who would change her world, open up her eyes and teach her to become the concert pianist and artist she is today. Sit back, close your eyes, and listen to the sounds, as music Bach, Beethoven, Chopin and many others will fill the pages of this outstanding memoir we can hear the concertos, the sonatas and the sympathies as we learn what how one young woman strives for success from the beginning. Auditioning for Mrs. Sivan with her Mozart Sonata the first movement, she hopes to not only make a positive impression but also make her grandfather and mother proud. Little does she learn until later that her performance was not quite up to par and the teacher felt a definite need to help this student whose skills were definitely as she states, “ ill equipped.”

Eleanora Sivan required more than just sitting at the piano when a student was taking a lesson or playing during a concert. Anna Goldsworthy, although only 9 when she began her lessons with Sivan, entered the same world as adults, high school students and Mrs. Sivan to become a concert pianist, child prodigy of the magnitude required not only by others but for herself as well. Anna’s journey began with five minutes of practice required by her former instructor whose standards did not mark those of Mrs. Sivan. Increased to 2 hours of practice daily as a more realistic regime for a serious music student, would she rise to what was expected of her?

The memoir related her personal musical journey to reach the heights needed when studying under such a devoted and dedicated teacher. It is truly a testament to herself and to Mrs. Sivan. They story is centered in Australia from her first meeting with Mrs. Sivan to her enlightenment when taking her first lesson. Eye opening, illuminating and definitely at times deflating for Anna. As Sivan explains the first steps required before placing her fingers on the notes or even beginning to play. Sivan explains, “The fingers are the orchestra musicians.” Anna needed to learn how to sit, finger, position and place her hands before beginning. “ You are playing not listening, you have to hear a sound- hearing the sound creates our imagination and then relax.” Understanding the sound, strong fingers the hands speak as Sivan explains. The breakthrough came when she was asked to create a story for Mozart’s second movement in one of his Sonata’s. Sivan had a difficult childhood and by having her students create a story within the music she hoped to regain much or some of what she lost when growing up. Each chapter the author introduces the reader to a different composer and artist. In each chapter we learn the history of the artist, become familiar with his music and hear it when Anna plays throughout the entire book. From taking the Third Grade exam to receiving high marks to the disappointments within herself when she did not receive the accolades she wanted this is one interesting memoir that helps students of music, or in any field understand the dedication and fortitude needed to rise above the rest and reach your own ultimate goals.

Her technique could not be beautified as she struggled to find the correct sound, the correct inner emotion to present her music to the world. But, one question rang loud and true in her mind, “ Did she want to be acclaimed for her piano performances?” As Sivan elaborates and explains to Anna that pianism has to be completely out of your inner emotion. Playing the piano is a projection of your inner emotion.” Not an easy concept for most adults to grasp no less a nine year old. `

Entering Pembroke, hoping to gain some popularity, told she would not be a concert pianist, still attending her lessons and learning more about the many composers, their uniqueness their special message conveyed in their music is part of what kept Anna focused. A family totally devoted to her, to helping her form her future yet allowing her make her own decisions, Anna began to try and find her own way yet there was much more to learn. Accolades and academic awards were great but the real recognition for her music and who she was has yet to come as Mrs. Sivan has much more to teach her many more understandings to impart and lessons that still have not been taught not just to her but others too.

Reading about the piano, learning about the mysteries of it and not always playing the notes or practicing might have helped her gain a better perspective. From wanting to be like the other girls to having a father who guided her much of the way taking copious notes at every lesson in order to help her not only write this memoir but understand what she needed to do to improve and learn, Anna’s childhood seemed quite structured, pronounced with organization and even her own brand of self discipline. At times I was hoping that she would just have some real fun and doing something silly like any child or teen would. She was serious about her education, followed the rules wherever she went and rarely spoke out in her own defense against friends or adults. Even the great composers spoke out, rebelled against the times and created their own voice or inner most personality in their music.

Many people can define freedom in many ways, as you will learn from reading this memoir and the many definitions related. But, the greatest joy is freedom in your music, as the sounds beckon you and you enter a special world only you can understand and hear. Then, I decided to hear and listen for myself as I closed my eyes and listened to the author play a Chopin Nocturne and then watched this time seeing the emotional connection in her hands, face and entire being when did more than play the Nocturne she told her own magical story. Hearing Helen Warner tell how she launched the book and the author in a video called Piano Lessons Behind the Scenes you begin to understand more about the memoir, her relationship with Mrs. Sivan and her family.

Her eighth grade exam proved an eye opener, disappointment and for most young girls, but not Anna a defeat. As the examiner, an organist did not appreciate her program and her Mozart but what follows will show you what happens when her resolve comes through, her determination to succeed wins and her five years with Mrs. Sivan would continue on to many more. Freedom in her music but not in her own life as Anna became more determined to focus on her music, her practicing and as Mrs. Sivan stated more secure. So focused on her music that it seemed she lost sight of her herself, her friends and everything else teens were into. Did she want to remain are prefect, would she ever speak her mind or was the piano her only voice?

The many disappointments, her family dynamics changing the concerts she played for and the awards she one but one thing remains constant is her loyalty and love for Mrs. Sivan who has inspired, taught and loved so many musicians and who more than just enriched Anna’s life. Emergencies, accidents, concerts, fear of losing someone close and one young woman who would never give up on her music, the composers, the freedom it brought her and the Piano: Who chose her. This is one memoir that all music students should read, those serious about becoming musicians and for everyone that wants to learn more about Mozart, Chopin my favorite, Liszt and so many others. Where is she now and what is our author doing? Read the memoir. Hear her voice and hear the music. But: only bit by bit. Written from the heart and told in her own voice as the reader learns just how powerful music can be in someone’s life and how words are not the only form of expression.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

One Book in the Grave

2012-02-20T14:41:00.001-05:00

One Book in the Grave

Author: Kate Carlisle

Brooklyn Wainwright loves books. Her job as a bookbinder is more than just challenging to her it excites her. When summoned to the Covington Library to see her close friend and curator Ian McCullough a rare and special edition of a book she thought lost forever is replaced in her hands. Max Adams was a handsome and charismatic man whose goal in life was to create different types of paper for books. Max loved what he did and had many followers including Brooklyn and her many friends. Max loved books and when getting engaged to a woman named Emily Brooklyn decides to present them with a special gift of a first edition of Beauty and the Beast. To many these might sound trite and not an appropriate gift but to Max it meant the world. Thinking of himself as the ultimate Beast to Emily’s beauty he endorsed the book in his special way and presented it to her as a special gift. Emily was never seen without the book, which she held close to her heart. What does this have to do with the present and Brooklyn’s meeting with Ian? Ian requested her presence to rebind this very book that she thought stolen. Learning the history behind it and knowing where he purchased it and from whom, Brooklyn literally bursts his bubble when she relates the story and that the book was once really hers. Needless to say Ian is quite upset and wants to find out more about the origin of the sale from his seller. Brooklyn is aiming to learn that for herself as she leaves Ian to find the man who sold him this rare first edition. But, what she finds when she arrives is anything but what she hoped for. What happens when she enters the office of the man and finds him stabbed to death? Joseph Taylor lied on his Persian Carpet dead. Eyes starring up at her and throat slit. But, Brooklyn is not one to take things lightly and when she realizes the killer just might be in the same room with her she investigates to learn more. Returning to the crime scene, calling the police and waiting for them to arrive she investigates even further and finds the murder weapon. Calling herself, “ The Angel of Death,” seems apropos as dead bodies seem to follow her.

Getting caught up in the murder scene and realizing she has a similar knife she decides to call her love interest Derek Stone. Derek owns Stone Security dealing in protecting art objects, valuables and anything that requires safekeeping. Joe is a bookstore owner and found dead in his antiquarian room. When Inspector Janice Lee arrives words are exchanges, daggers fly between them, remarks are shared and one homicide detective is anything but thrilled to see Brooklyn. But, the event heats up even more when it becomes personal. Brooklyn and Derek are about to leave the crime scene and Joe’s office when they realize the tires on Brooklyn’s car have been slashed. Even more telling is the weapon or knife used to slash the tires inscribed with the name Max giving her and the detective more than an eerie feeling that someone is sending a message from the great beyond. Just what that message is and who is sending it remains within the binding of a rare book. Realizing that she might need some support and guidance she and Derek head for her family’s home or commune hoping to see Guru Bob and get some insight on the events and how to proceed. Learning more about Guru Bob and his insight about why Brooklyn seems to be a dead body magnet is quite startling to say the least. Understanding the rationale behind what he says interesting to say the least. As he states that the dead just might be pulling towards her in order to find justice. Feeling like she is part of an Agatha Christie murder mystery what she learns next will really change everything as Guru Bob reveals that Max is alive. What follows is definitely not what you would expect in a supposedly serene environment. Everyone reacting at once, truths told and the reason Max staged his own death, where he might be and why. The next step would be to go to the safe house where Max is hiding and learn more. Using the book, Beauty and the Beast as Brooklyn states as the catalyst they hope to find out who is behind Joe’s death, why Brooklyn is being targeted and if any other bodies are waiting to be found.

Told in the first person narrative in Brooklyn’s own voice you learn her inner most thoughts, how she sees the investigation going and what her feelings are toward each character and her reactions to every incident related. Ten years ago, Max Adams fell in love with Emily, gave her the copy of this rare book as a symbol of his love. But, when he died in car crash Brooklyn was distraught so why did he fake it? Who does she suspect and will she return the book to Emily? With characters so unique, colorful and definitely out of the ordinary Brooklyn needs to find the answers before she becomes one of the bodies. Just how this murder might be linked to Max’s disappearance still remains to be seen.

Learning the truth about Max and his death sparked the three friends into action to learn just why he faked his death and who might have been behind the attempts on his life. Max’s ex- girlfriend, Angelica who has a strange way of showing her affection and an ex- boss named Solomon who is not quite normal either. Both seem to want to taunt Max in different ways but which one is more deadly and why? With help from his friends from the Dharma Max hopes to find out who is taking shots at him, how they knew where he was hiding out and just what the connection is to his friend Brooklyn? With her inquisitive and eager mother, a father who had a hand in Max’s disappearance and a whole lot of colorful and quirky friends Brooklyn, Derek and Gabriel hope they can solve the murder of the bookstore owner and much more before her not so favorite police detective is back on the scene.

Our bibliophile or lover of rare books will not give up until she gets the answers she wants but who will be next, who is at risk just being near her? What is really unique about this book is the author’s inclusion of the bookbinding process where Brooklyn describes how she is going to restore the first edition of Beauty and the Beast and several others that she has received the commission. It is a tedious and precise process that is described and adds to the character’s credibility as a bookbinder and allows the reader to understand the character even more.

When the team realizes that Max is in even more danger and another warning is left, Brooklyn decides to have him stay with her in order to keep him safe. But, will it? Where is Emily and why did she take a leave of absence from her job and just what happened to Angelica? Well! How about a special delivery to Brooklyn of the dead kind? Just what was delivered and who was sent COD: Dead on Delivery I won’t tell. You have to read the book to find out for yourself and just what happens when Emily shows up? Added to the mix is one lunatic named Minka who hates Brooklyn, wants her share of her commissions and shows up unexpectedly and of course unwanted.

When all of the pieces or threads of a bookbinder’s skills are put together what is created you just won’t believe as the ending will surprise you and the twists in the plot will definitely unnerve the reader when you find out just who was behind the murders, who was standing in plain sight and definitely blindsided our Brooklyn. Emily is kidnapped. Minka is taken and it’s up to Derek, Gabriel and Max to save them. But, will they or is it the chocolate trail? One book you definitely want to read. One book bound book that keeps you bound to the printed page. One great novel. To learn the ending, which I am bound not to give, away you will have to buy the book, read it and see just how clever our Brooklyn Wainwright is and learn what lies between these binded pages.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Deadly ,com

2012-02-20T08:01:00.000-05:00

Title: Deadly.com

Author: Cindy McDonald

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Just how far would you go to meet a hot man? Just why do some women resort to finding a man online? Why do others log on to sites that are not secure and chat with a total stranger in a suggestive way? Imagine a gorgeous man hoping for your company and you take the bait just by looking at a picture posted on his website. Women are often lured into the den of men who prey on their weaknesses and vie for their attention. These men, as you will learn more about the one that this story centers around, are often homely, not well bred, ugly, fat and definitely not what anyone would want to date. Online dating can be dangerous and entering the chat room and having a conversation with a picture can lead to events that you might live to regret. Acceptance and understanding are two simple words with multiple meanings. George Smuts is a mean and cruel person whose existence is limited to working as a jockey agent and whose appearance rebels most people. George Smuts is still a human being and no one likes to be rebuffed. George is a clever man who created an alter ego for himself in order to get the attention from women he so greatly craved.

Kate West is a flirt. She enjoys logging on to a site called My Town to chat with a man known only as Georgio. But, just who is this man? What does he really want? Kate West is a veterinary assistant at Westwood Thoroughbred Farm. George Smuts is the man who created this alter ego for himself hoping to finally have a shot at Kate. But, George is anything but what his picture shows on a site called My Town and the whole persona he cleverly invented for himself is false. Many women log on each day just to get his attention including Kate’s ex-sister in law Ava West. Cyberspace is where George feels hot and sexy. In cyberspace you can create any persona or image you want others to seen. Women like Ava and Kate who vie for a man’s attention find him mysterious and exciting. Some even get instant gratification just from chatting with these men.

Jose Desouza is one of George’s jockey clients and his meal ticket. As his agent he managed to get him the races that would bring him a lucrative commission. But, Jose is a drunk and Mike West, the man in charge decides to go with another jockey to represent his farm in an upcoming big race. Doing his best as his agent did not seem fruitful for George. George is really despicable and most people at the farm ignore his presence as if he is invisible. No one acknowledges George even when he is standing right in front of him or her. It’s like an invisible shield is around him and no one really sees or hears him. George Smuts whose mind is filled with hate, rejection and voices will ultimately change everything for this family. Not wanting to lose two commissions he has lined up George is more than angered when told his jockey would not ride in a big race. One more to go and things would definitely not turn out great and his career as an agent for jockeys would disappear. George won’t take defeat in his job or in his quest to win Kate.

George is fired by Mike and puts a plan into motion that would not only bring down the entire West family but raise that shield of invisibility. George never did anything to countermand what others thought about him. George hears voices. Many times he tried to shrug it off but the dominant voice in his head was relentless and would not.

Using the Internet as his venue George hopes to attract the attention of Kate West and many others in order to inflate more than just his ego. Logging on to the site My Town Kate has many conversations with Giorgio and one that will cost someone his life. Taunting Giorgio even more each time she logs on not only fuels his anger ignites his plans for revenge. Ava becomes his first victim only to be followed by Mike and Kate. Just how this happens you won’t believe as author Cindy McDonald weaves a web of lies, deceit and hate as we hear the inner voice of one man names George who justifies his actions to himself and only wants to be recognized by others and make his mother proud.

Eric West is the patriarch of the West Family and prides himself on running a tight family business. Rebuilding it from scratch and reviving Westwood Thorough Bred Farm is his life. His three children, quite different in personality yet loyal to the business handle many situations in different ways. Two sons whose personalities are highly volatile and one daughter caught up in her own world and the web. Mike and Shane can’t seem to agree on anything and their explosive personalities put their horses in jeopardy and lives in danger.

Chaz Derringer is the new announcer hired by Eric West to call the races. Misconceptions, lies and betrayals can often lead to dangerous situation, as Chaz Derringer would find out. One man’s lies would bring down more than just Chaz as George finds it necessary to end his life. But, that is just the beginning of his reign of terror as he confronts Jose and decides to eliminate him too. When Mike West walks in on the entire scene, sees what George has done to Jose why does he wind up in jail? What happens next is terrifying to say the least as the author relates a story that will bring more than just chills down your spine but an electrifying result.

Detective Carl Lugowski is assigned to the case and finds himself in the middle of more than just one murder before all is said and done. Enamored with Ava and hardly being able to see straight when she is around he finds himself caught up in more than just the web of deceit she weaves but a family of people trying to come out on top each in their own way. But, just when you think things cannot get worse wait and see what George does next.

George has set his sites on destroying the West family and begins with Ava. When Mike comes into the barn and sees what is happening he becomes the next victim followed by Kate. Blaming the world for his terrible plight, hearing a distinct voice in his head orchestrating his every move this sick and demented man will not be stopped until he takes out all of his prey. But, when caught he does not stay locked up very long as he is placed in a poorly run mental institution and manages to escape and here is where the story heats up.

Just what George has in store for everyone you will not believe and what happens when they realize just who is behind the site My Town will surprise the reader? There are many other characters that come into play in this intricate plot. We have Dr. Ben Spears the Vet who works at the farm and is seriously attacked by George. We have Travis Cutler the new horse trainer is not exactly the best person for the job. There are many others behind the deceit at the farm and many whose lies and deceptions fall on deaf ears. George is crazy but very smart. The plan created in his head by the voices he hears are so sick and diabolical you has to admire his brilliance. After escaping from the institution he manages to switch identities with Mike. Just what happens to Mike when he gets locked up will enlighten the reader as to the neglect and abuse that often goes on behind the doors of many mental institutions as we learn by the actions of one doctor.

Family harmony is really not what anyone tries to create yet Shane, the youngest son is about to race his prize filly but many obstacles come his way. Not everyone is what they seem as you will find out. Leaving town to alleviate the tension between himself and his brother, Mike falls prey to George’s diabolical plan landing him behind the walls of the institution. Even the doctors turn a blind eye when Mike protests and tries to set the record straight.

When the police learn he is missing just who gets brought back to the institution and who is free? Will anyone realize what is really happening at the farm and who else is behind the sabotage of the horses and much more? Betrayals, lies, deceits and one man named George who just wants to be treated as a human being and as a person but has no idea how to go about doing that. One man whose mother has ruled his life and whose voice is never silent in his quest to make her proud.

Just how this plays out might shock your inner core in more ways than one. Where Mike winds up is frightening? Will Dr. Fleming realize the mistake or will Mike suffer the aftershocks? An ending filled with so many twists, turns and surprises you will never guess the outcome even if the race is fixed and you knew the winner beforehand. What finally happens to George only the author knows the answer to that and of course the voices in his head telling everyone to read this book to find out the inner secrets of horseracing, the scary events in a mental institution and why one family needs to learn the true meaning of the word family, loyalty and faith. One book that will bring you directly onto to the track as you enter the world of thoroughbred racing. Before you place your bet make sure you know whose riding. Deadly.com brings to light what happens when cyberspace takes over and you do not heed the warnings before logging on. Better yet: Read the book. Let’s give this book: FIVE WINNING TICKETS

Fran Lewis: reviewer

The Man Clothed In Linen

2012-02-19T15:58:00.002-05:00

The Man Clothed in Linen

Author: Robert Earle

There are many different outlooks on just that Jesus was, his early life, what he accomplished and his relationship with Mary Magdalene, the church and his disciples. There are many questions that come to mind when we hear his name, try to understand his life and create in your mind the man you think he was. The Man Clothed in Linen is a story that answers many unanswered questions/ who was he? Who were his followers and who loved him and those that hated him? A discussion ensues between Malthace Herod’s wife and Nicolas discussing the succession to the throne and why she feels Archelaus, is the one become King after Herod dies. Although he is the oldest son his attributes do not mirror a King nor does he have the qualities that his younger brother Antipas has that would make him a stronger ruler. Nicolas’s original companion was Jonah who no longer lives in the palace due to differences maintained in his community. Being a strict and suspicious sect he realized that Herod would not change his mind about having him there and Joan was a great presence in the palace. Nicolas was a philosopher and a historian, which holds no power with the Essenes. Rome is friends to Israel and the king defers to Rome.

The story begins with this discussion preceded with a short introduction telling of Herod’s illness, his inability to get warm and what is needed to help him create some body heat and warmth. When blankets do not heed any warmth and the hot cloths fail another solution is suggested. The story moves forward to a discussion between Nicolas and Malthace and both express their concerns for the throne and who both feel should succeed Herod. Then the story comes back to Herod. But, Joanna has her own thoughts on how to get things done and so does Nicolas as they get Mary from Bethlehem to warm the King which seems to not only rejuvenate his body but his mind too. Relating a disturbing dream about an eagle to Nicolas lets the reader know that Herod bases many of his thoughts and decisions on anything Roman including wanting an Eagle placed over the temple as protection. Visions enter his dreams about his first wife, exiling her and how he came to love Miriam and her betrayals. Having her hanged and reliving it in his mind plus seeing her in his dreams was not the only thing that made Herod delusional and paranoid. Added to that he summons his two sons to decide which will inherit the throne and which will not. However, the discussion between Antipas and his older son reveals more about their personalities both positive and negative. One would wager his life against all odds where the other would think before acting. Which one becomes King and what happens remains to be seen.

In Herod’s final act or will he decides to name Archelaus as the next King even though his other son is more worthy. Herod seems controlled by Rome and what happens in his Kingdom creates more wars and strife in Palestine. Told in the words of Nicolas and from his point of view the author relates how he tutored Mark Antony and Cleopatra’s children, served faithfully as an advisor to King Herod and then his two sons in Israel and played an integral role as advisor to the Roman Emperor Augustus.

The story continues as Herod puts Nicolas on the spot and asks him to state what makes him a great ruler. Added to that Herod spends much of his time creating more palaces, more buildings and enlists Nicolas to create a biography of Augustus in time for his visit. Trying to make Herod understand that Augustus is not a god but a son of a god even though his thoughts go on deaf ears. There are many others included in this section of the book, as Ptolemy is the one building these structures to Herod’s specifications. Explaining that as a great king he would build. So having hanging gardens, palaces, roads, cities and ports for people to use and enjoy was his quest. Requiring Nicolas to come up with the solution was his solution. Herod only wanted to be titled Herod the Great at all costs. Ptolemy’s engineers created a platform with walls 150 feet high. Tons of gold, silver and bronze used. Requiring Nicolas to create this biography of Augustus was not a pleasurable task. When Herod questioned both of his sons asking each questions on created more difficulty, as he wanted both to tell him of his most crucial moments. How could Antipas remind him of his father and brother’s deaths? Telling him what he wanted to hear using humor and imitating his impatience with Nicolas and retelling many stories related to Nicolas. When the older son relates his take on his father he tells his favorite story but not the right one. Unfortunately, sometimes mistakes are made and the wrong person is chosen even though they are wrong for the position as we learn when Herod makes his decision.

However, things were to heat up when Joanna tells Herod that Mary is pregnant. Thinking that it was impossible for Herod to father a child what will they do and how will they handle it? So, who reveals the truth to him and what will be her fate? What role does Joanna play in the cover up? Why do they claim both mother and child are dead? While his emissaries confirmed the death of Mary and her child, Herod needed to decide on a successor. Asking Nicholas to write to Augustus before he dies explaining the plight of a king. But, what he does as a result of his madness or lack of thought is name his older son to be king hoping that Antipas will ascend to the throne when his older son fails. This would be will number 7. When learning of his fate and that he would be King instead of taking it, as a grownup he stated was silly, acted self-centered and pompous. Not exactly the traits of a King. Not thinking of the gravity of the position only the pomp and circumstance that it would afford him. Plus what about his younger brother and how would he react? Poor Antipas would now be called Prince and his job to collect taxes, supervise public word and keep order: title: Tetrarch of Galilee and Peraea. Making Archelaus thrilled that he would rule over him. Herod died and the funeral would be lavish. Questioning Nicolas about his brother learns that he is mourning their father. Dealing with his new role as King he even agrees to see his mother upon the advice of Nicolas. Yet, would he succeed and what kind of King did he want to be. There were some that even missed Herod even though he was evil and mean. Further strife and it was decided that without the blessing of Augustus no one would be king.

We now move to section two Rome where Nicolas receives a letter from Joanna learning about the Temple, what Archelaus has unleashed on Jerusalem and angered by Rome’s tax collector who came to audit Herod’s treasure and there were riots everywhere. Joanna now works for her husband and aids in his private business as does Antipas who is her husband’s steward. Her assessment of her husband quite telling and revealing and her hopes for Antipas said.

Many Jews spoke to Augustus Caesar hoping that the Romans would rule them directly. Describing in vivid detail the horrors that befell them as the hand of Herod. Augustus decision was not quite what Nicolas expected as he would name Archelaus Ethnarch of the Jews and Master of Judea and Samaria but not King and Antipas the Tetrarch of Galilee and Peraea.

The author describes Nicolas’s relationship with Augustus and meeting with Timeagnes who icy countenance brought chills to his chest as they discussed the fate of Rome as he receives another letter from Joanna requesting his help to save them from what Archelaus is doing to Herod’s kingdom. The author describes his life in Rome, his conflicts and then return to help Antipas who came in person instead of Joanna and what Nicolas promises him will definitely surprise the reader.

From the wonders of many palaces to Herod’s court the author takes the reader inside the minds of many rulers, betrayals and what finally happens when Antipas rules. Reenter Pilate who would like to take over control of Palestine and Antipas has only one thought and that is to control all of his father’s kingdom. But, what about Jesus as Nicolas finally sees him not really knowing who he was. Joseph was his father who was a deaf-mute. Finding out about where Joseph was born and learning that his wife was Mary from Bethlehem and Jesus their son set in motion many a quest to find out more about him as they state they think that Mary died and so did her child. Added to that is Antipas’s realization about Pilate informing Nicolas that he wanted Jewish rule restored to Herod’s realm. As the author relates more about Antipas and Nicolas and their relationship even dealing with women.

Yeshua the Baptist arrives and Antipas does not trust him as many come to hear his speak. What he does you will have to learn for yourself as you begin to wonder if he is not following exactly in Herod’s footsteps. What Baptist suggests causes Antipas to do something rash. We learn about Jesus and how he is called a healer at this point. The research related in this book is extensive. The description of the life of Herod, his two sons and their relationship with Nicolas quite compelling as well as the women in their lives and the role Joanna plays throughout the novel.

Part four relates what happens when Nicolas returns to Jerusalem and the death of Baptist. Now they learn more about Jesus and his followers and their search for him. Going to Nazareth Chuza, Joanna’s husband states he saw a woman claiming to be the mother of Jesus. Betrayals occur and many try to control Antipas and his actions in their favor. The life of Jesus is told and the author uses different texts as he shares much about him and we learn more about his life and his work. As our story comes to a close does it really because there are still many unanswered questions that you will have to decide for yourself. You hear the words of Jesus and you hear his songs as he speaks to his disciples and he heals the sick. Jesus is never alone in public and had many followers.

You hear his words and his thoughts and you get to know as author Robert Earle takes the reader on a special journey back to Herod’s rule and through the ages to meet the one man who was Clothes in White Linen. You decide the answers to the questions presented as you read this novel. Learn why some think he poisoned himself to avoid crucifixion. As the author relates the ending and what they think really happened to Jesus and his body you need to decide for yourself as Mary kept Herod warm and two others Jesus.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Elusive Peace reviewed by fran lewis

2012-02-16T18:12:00.001-05:00

Elusive Peace

Author: Douglas E. Noll

Creating peace- not an easy accomplishment. Everyone wants to live in a peaceful life. Ideally countries and their leaders want their citizens to live threat free and in peace. The world is huge and billions of people inhabit it trying to survive, bringing up children, earning a living so why are so many bent on destroying others? Why do we need peacemakers to help us get along with our neighbors, friends, co-workers and spouses? Author Douglas E. Noll brings to light why crucial negotiations between parties fail- diplomats enter these talks with “flawed assumptions about human behavior, society, and power.” Can every conflict be resolved? Caused by humans, created and orchestrated by humans- humans have the power to end them. So, why do they choose to fight, hate, dislike and not see another persons, or group’s point of view? The author uses skills far different than those of political negotiators. Imagine being in a room with hardened criminals, killers, murderers, rapist, life inmates or long termers. Imagine teaching these inmates how to resolve conflicts and create a peaceful environment in prison. As the author relates how he and mediator Laurel Kaufer in the introduction of the book, trained peacemakers and mediators in a prison in California, you begin to wonder why the government cannot do the same. Conducting intensive training, teaching the inmates how to conduct peace circles in prison, starting with 12 women and growing, women he and Laurel were able to teach these women the art of mediation and turn their prison into “a place of peace.” So, why do peace talks fail? Why can’t we get the Iranians to stop killing each other? Why can’t the Sunnis and Shia’s co-exist?

When buying a new car or appliance everyone wants the latest state of the art model and every new accessory, nothing antiquated. All of the newest features that will give the owner the best ride, and the most use out of your new appliance without the need of an extra warranty or service contract. So, why not use that same ideology when dealing with personal or international conflicts? Stating we need to employ 21^st century technology to solve 21^st century problems is paramount to the success of solving conflicts. Why drive an Edsel when you can drive a Rolls. Why constantly repair a broken appliance with used parts when you can buy a new one? Peacemaking is the same- if you view creating peace as using the skillfully applied technology of the 21^st century we just might succeed or have a way to begin.

Foreign countries seem to have difficulties with creating lasting peace. Our top negotiators are not much better. Their success rate is not high. One of the primary focal points and prominent in the news, headlines and on the net are stories dealing with peace. End result or end sentence or closing paragraphs do not yield information on success or positive solutions. The author brings to light the many reasons why international negotiated peace accords might be the reason for the increased killings, violence and genocides in many countries. The Middle East, Africa, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq- why is it that on the surface we think changes are occurred but if you take a deeper look beyond the surface structure you will find the climate is still the same and results almost nil. The primary questions we need to ask is we can list countless places, countries, stories or events where conflicts remain in control and peace takes a definite back seat. Trained negotiators- why can’t they succeed? Is mediation the answer? In this one of its kind book the author shares his many experiences, successes, techniques and skills in teaching those that negotiate the art of mediations and how to focus on its success.

Many schools have created no tolerance for violence programs that are successful because they go hand in hand with either school, district or citywide Peer Mediation Programs that train teachers, guidance counselors, principals and student mediators as well as students how to handle conflicts through mediation. If they can eliminate fighting and discord why can’t countries do the same?

Citing case studies, examples of conflicts around the word, some more paramount than others, the author enlightens the reader as to why the old does not work and modern medication would make a difference. Point: When negotiating you need to “ set forth basic ideas, know how to get what you want in the negotiations without making any concessions.” In mediation a third person assist the parties or opponents to resolve a problem or conflict.

Helping the party’s involved find a solution is pure mediation. A mediator is there to provide, “ process and service aide to those involved to make good decisions.” In simple terms the mediator helps those involved separate themselves from the problem leaving the emotions aside and without threats and promises. How does mediation bring both parties together? Both must believe that all promises made will be adhered to, accountability understood. The mediator is responsible to create an environment to bring this about.

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. Just how do you run mediation? Throughout this outstanding and informative books he author cites many case studies, real situations and bring the reader up close and personal inside the conflicts, wars and problems faced by Presidents, world leaders, and negotiators who try to resolve issues.

Step one is convening: The mediator in other words gets the parties together to talk. This is not the easiest task since all too often those involved really despise each other and hate being in the same room no less breathing the same air. Pages 46-47 explains in detail the different strategies used in mediations. Step 2: Offering compassion and Empathy and recognizing injustice. A mediator who is trained has to listen to not only what is being said but pay attention to what is not being said in order to know how to reach both parties and proceed. The mediator has to listen to both sides of the story and be impartial. Mediation can teach those involved how to listen to the other side’s point of view. Providing leadership, de-escalating conflicts, providing a fair process, assisting in decision- making, coaching, managing information and much more as outlined in Chapter 2. Conflicts are not isolated and to just countries or individuals. Kids in playgrounds have conflicts. Even people on the check out line in supermarkets argue with the cashiers over pricing, or who is first in line.

The author continues to cite many different situations in Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan and ways to approach conflicts with social identities. Chapter 7 deals with Fear, Anger and Decision and Chapter 8 with the crisis in Kenya delving into the background of the conflict, the December 2007 election and how mediation when our author was brought into the negotiations.

There is so much discussed in this book about the different areas where mediations is needed. Finally, everyone wants peace and professional mediators in North America and Europe are committed to continuing their education. As a result more workshop training is available, conferences, even academies where mediators can to learn the art of mediation. The US is now realizing the value and importance of dialogue and negotiations when dealing with Iran, Korea, Israel and Pakistan as well as other volatile areas. This is one book that every leader of every country should read in order to understand the importance of creating a safe and peaceful environment for their citizens. Kids are taught tolerance but in many places they are taught to hate. Why? Teachers, guidance counselors, human resource workers, administrators, and world leaders are just some of who can benefit from reading this book. Working with gang members, difficult students in school using this program would definitely defuse much of the hostility and maybe prevent murders.

Taking the first step by admitting what does not work is vital. Recognizing that international diplomatic mediators are specialists in the field paramount. For many people and countries peace is elusive. They just can’t seem to find the right way to attain it. If we train our leaders, diplomats and international mediators properly to take responsibility and as they say step up to plate using the best batting tools and more, peace will be identifiable not elusive.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Beware of Friends and Green Buildings

2012-02-16T07:13:00.002-05:00

Doppelganger Experiment

Author: Margaret Millmore

Waking up in the hospital after being in a coma for four weeks would frighten anyone and make you wonder where the time went and what happened. But, when Jane wakes up all that is familiar to her is her first name and when addressed by the last name Knox by the hospital staff she is unsure of whom they are speaking to. How did she get this Traumatic Brain Injury and why did she think it was 2007 and not 2010? How did Jane lose three years of her life and yet when questioned remembered certain facts and not others? The false sense of security provided by the nurses, hospital staff and the man claiming to be her husband is unnerving to say the least. Flashbacks of events in her life come front and center yet most questions go unanswered. A reoccurring dream keeps appearing in her mind each night as she wakes from a difficult night’s sleep hoping to regain some semblance of her former life. What is constant is a green building. Not able to totally identify what kind of structure it is whether apartment building or warehouse Jane tries to hone in on the exact image but more disturbing is the figure in the shadows that she can’t seem to identify. While cleaning up and trying to make herself look more presentable more images appeared in her mind starting with her best friend Kira and another named Brett. Just why they did not come to see her is unknown at this time. When her supposed husband appears again he seems to know a lot about her friends what happened to her and the man who supposedly caused her accident. Out of nowhere her friend Kira calls and asks to see her and more memories flood back not everything is what it appears to be. Michael is trying to make her feel safe but just who he is she really is not sure. Seeing a psychiatrist was supposed to help bring back her memory and working with PT her physical strength.

Doppelganger means double walker. Doppelganger is an apparition of oneself or another person whom we are acquainted with or know or even never met. Imagine yourself or someone with you that is yours or his body double that is supposed to be with us at all times. It is someone you can or cannot be aware of at times. It might be a premonition of what lies ahead in your life. It cannot be seen in the mirror but is considered to be a bad omen predicting death. Is this what Jane has to look forward to? What is the Doppelganger Experiment that she has been a part of and just does not know it? When Jane questions Brett about how she met Michael and their courtship is it real? As both of her friends fill her in on their impressions of Michael you gather that they are not thrilled with him that he’s too stiff and definitely not the kind of person they thought she would wind up with. But, a bad dream startled her again and this time she saw the orderly Franklin in her dream warning her against going into the green building. But, Michael arrived and disturbed her train of thought telling him about Kira and Brett’s visits and discussing the past as Franklin entered the room but this time was cold to Michael giving Jane some pause for thought. The same dream seems to reoccur when she is alone. Standing in front of the same green building this time visualizing it as an apartment building and trying to focus on the figure that appears each time. The figure appears as it does in a Doppelganger as a ghostly image. But, even her friends seemed different yet she did not make any startling connections or disconnections yet from the past to the present. Franklin would appear at times and although he seems friendly enough it appears he has something to do with the green building and what lies hidden behind its walls as he just might be the link she needs to her past.

As Jane became home and more acclaimed to her new environment she began to relate to the reader her exploration of her home, the photos she found and the unsettling feeling she had when she looked at pictures of her old boyfriend Aaron who resembled Michael. Not only that learning from Brett that they were total opposites intrigued her more. Wanting to know more about this green building and looking up information based on a business card brought her attention to a study dealing with temporoparietal junction at the Center for Temporoparietal Advancement. When Jane started to look this up what she found were two definitions of what they dealt with. One is mind control and the other is Self. The procedure she found out might have been inconclusive but the end result in some cases was a second self. This was caused by the fact that electromagnetic stimulation was used on subjects creating as the title states the doppelganger phenomenon or effect which created a person or second self “identical to the original person who copied or mimicked the person.” Frightening to the subjects and enlightening to Jane. As Jane continued on her search for information what she did not find were the names of any doctors or scientists that conducted the study which was discontinued.

Then cold statement made by a guest at a cocktail party leads Jane to delve further into Michael’s past and possible identity. As Jane discusses things with Brett she realizes that something about her friends just might be off. Then meeting with the doctor that actually worked on the patients in this experiment what she learns will terrify the reader, bring chills down your spine and make you think twice before entering any building that just might be green. These experiments deal with the mind and how to alter behavior. Added to that she learns more about her boyfriend Aaron and her part in this experiment and why she was targeted and hit.

The truth behind the experiments and who was in charge will surprise the reader and definitely made you wonder how and why anyone would create a doppelganger or alter ego person for someone else. These evil experiments cost lives and now Jane had to decide whether to trust Michael, Brett or Kira or no one. Who were they and what was behind Michael’s transformation? What was done to all of them and what would the end result be? Imagine a center creating this physical doppelganger alter personality for you. Imagine not being in control of your own mind. Author Margaret Millmore has created a novel filled with research, psychological drama, mind control, fear, diabolical doctors and lies and betrayals that one woman named Jane has to sort through to find her way through the Doppelganger Effect or Experiment in order to find any reality. Cruel experiments at the hand of those who thought it would help those who fought for our country. What happens at the end will leave many unanswered questions and hope that the author will bring these characters back in order to learn the final ending. One mind boggling and thought provoking book that is really quite scary when you think about it and the premise behind it frightening. The end is really just the beginning. Read it to find out why. You won’t be disappointed.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

COLD CASES: LEARN HOW THE EXPERTS SOLVE THEM

2012-02-13T19:14:00.001-05:00

Eyes of the Cold Case Killers

Author: Charles Toftoy

There are many cold cases out there that have not been solved. There are many police officers working to bring those criminals who are still at large to justice. Some killers feel the stink of remorse as they go about their daily lives others find true happiness and joy knowing they might have gotten away with a heinous crime. Lars Neilson is a college professor and the head of Alpha Team whose uncover work helps solve these cold cases. What happens to trigger him into action is terrifying as he receives a letter from a close friend after taking her own life. The events that follow are bone chilling and delivered as only Dr. Charles Toftoy the author of its In the Eyes can.

Lars Nielsen receives a phone call that will start a chain reaction so deadly it will make you more then shudder. Belissa Hawthorne could not cope with life anymore and decided to take her own ending her torment and pain. But, when Lars receives the disturbing phone call from the Chief of Police he’s told that what appears to be a suicide just might be a murder. Contacting her family and explaining her final wishes to exclude them from the funeral everything is set in place. Leaving very specific instructions for her funeral and reading her suicide note, Lars immediately contacts the Alpha Team. Nothing remarkable occurs at the funeral but the Brazilian Ambassador approaches him before leaving.

But, the investigation has yet to heat up as one man going by the name Taurus terrorizes a Target and claims to have placed four C4 bombs within the store sending the manager on high alert, leaving a detailed description of how it would go down and frightening an entire town. But, it gets even worse. As the Chief of the Fire Department is killed in broad daylight for a remark he made regarding the killer and the Alpha Team and their new additions are on the case along with FBI consultant Carl Mercer and many more. As author Charles Toftoy introduces each member of the Alpha Team and the new interns he explains the investigative process in detail, allows the reader to understand the mind and actions of a serial killer and how a good investigation is handled from start to finish. What makes this novel and story unique is how he intermingles real life cold case investigation into the work of Lars and his team. Even more as Lars remembers his training and his visions of Kali come through helping to guide his thinking and actions throughout the novel.

Instilling fear is one way this killer feels powerful and becomes excited and leaving him imprint of the victims or on a letter is his way of getting noticed. But, when Washington Post Reporter Brenda Little does not recognize him in her article he becomes angry and seeks vengeance.

Taurus is a personality according to astrology thought to be calm and peaceful. But, as we learn from our murderer and killer when angered and aroused his temper can ignite and sparks will fly and spread faster than the lava from an active volcano or a third alarm fire. Disturbed by sudden changes, preferring everything to be uniform and under his control, those born within this sign or in this case the killer are persevering strong people that make the term bull headed seem tame. Goal oriented in his method of killing and definitely relishing in the aftermath this is one killer that the Alpha team will be relentless in pursuing.

Throughout the novel several important events help to tie things together, focus the reader’s interest and guide you every step of the way, along with the Alpha team to hunt this notorious murderer who calls him Taurus. Hearing his inner most angry thoughts, rants and raves and yet understanding the gravity of the situations related author Charles Toftoy carefully includes the reader in the entire investigative processes as he explains the rationale a work the police and FBI use when solving cold case murders.

Brenda Little is the reporter for the Washington Post who purposely fails to recognize our killer in any of her articles. This insights his wrath even more as you listen to his ramblings and can hear his voice throughout the novel. The process beings by having the seasoned and newest members break the ice by introducing themselves and explain their roles. Reading Chapter 11 will enlighten the reader further into the procedures, the steps and the processes used by the police, FBI and this Alpha team firsthand. From the detailed outline of what an original investigation includes, to the major points that need to be covered, reinvestigation and the definition of thought prints which is more detailed than fingerprints and yields better results, this author has created a resource for those thinking about going into the criminal field.

Where does he begin his reign of terror but this time in a mall town of Falls Church. But with two major incidents, one a false prank or hoax and the other a murder this killer’s agenda is unpredictable. The manager of Target receives a bomb threat. A homeless man is killed under the cover of darkness. Explaining the murders to the reader, graphically, how it would go down in the killer’s own words and the aftermath of his glory in what he has done, is more than spine tinkling and bone chilling.

Police Chief James Huntley is gunned by while resting on a bench. The team is angered even more and they to set into a motion to bring this man down. But, can they? What ties the main character Lars Nielsen to the events in the author’s first novel It’s In the Eyes are the vivid images, visions and discussions he has with the Goddess Kali as she appears at critical times, to mentor Lars and guide him the path to finding the right solution. But, this would not be a Charles Toftoy novel without Tiger and his hysterical jokes that lightened the very often tense and grave situations.

Hearing the killer so vividly describe the events as he tells the reader the rush he gets from killing and how and why the poor homeless man had to die is frightening. The focus and everyone’s eyes need to be only on him. Taurus needs a strong sense of security and routine. The power to stay on a task, endure and elude tiredness and fatigue are traits of a Taurus and are prominent in our killer. The victims are alone, staking them and often befriending them before the kill, False kindness sometimes creates dangerous situations and appearances in this case are definitely deceiving. Hiding in plain sight no one knows he is there.

As Doris, the top profiler beings working on the case she explains her powers as a medium as the author takes us through one of her private sessions and explains how she can connect with the dead using something belonging to them. The extensive research and resources the author used to create this intricate plot and outstanding novel is more than impressive. But, when things go sour and an officer is hurt and two are attacked at home the anger that ensues within the team is more than that of a blazing inferno and Lars and the rest are determined to take down the man who seems to be lurking right in front of them without being seen. As the killings increase, the threats to the teams come front and center and then one of the members gets a harsh warning. What follows are detailed meetings of how they are going to catch this guy, questions listed to help them in their investigation and added members of different police forces and branches of law to blend and coordinate their resources and skills. Those studying to be an FBI agent of Detective the questions on pages 188-189 might be quite helpful.

When all of the pieces finally fit together and the police forces have a better picture of what he looks like one of their own is seriously injured and what happens you just won’t believe. One killer finds out just what happens when justice is finally served but not as you would expect it to be. Twists and curves that even Tiger cannot keep up with in his repertoire of jokes and humorous stories. An ending that you definitely will not see coming and four police departments that prove that some members of law enforcement will never give up until all of the Cold Cases are solved. Look into the eyes of a Cold Case Killer and you will see the eyes of the Alpha Team staring back. You figure out why and the message. This novel will definitely keep you glued to the printed page until you read the climatic and dramatic ending. Find out whether the killer is caught, if he is still at large and when and if Doris and Lars will ever tie the knot. One great book and one creative and talented author who is right up there with Steve Berry, Joseph Finder and other mystery/thriller writers.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Let’s dedicate this review to all those police officers that work really hard to close they Cold Cases and to the victims who will finally rest in peace.

This book gets: FIVE TIGER JOKES AND FIVE SOLVED COLD CASES

The Promise of Change

2012-02-12T19:18:00.001-05:00

The Promise of Change

Rebecca Heflin

Sarah likes her life organized, compartmentalized and adheres to a perfectly created daily schedule. Married and divorced, hoping to seek her father’s approval every step of the way she can’t seem to divorce herself from analyzing and scrutinizing her decisions and life every step of the way. When offered a great promotion at work she had to think and rethink over the offer before agreeing to an interview. Sarah hates change. But, with change sometimes-great things happen and with rigidity and the same old same old come boredom, complacency and no real challenges that life affords you. When Sarah finally appears in front of the committee for the interview although her performance is sterling she does not get the job. Wanting someone with litigation experience to handle the more difficult areas of the law firm they hire a barracuda and Sarah’s own nemesis from law school, which turns out to anything but wonderful for those in the company. Patricia seems on the outside to have it all together but in reality the only way she makes her mark is by destroying the confidence and self-esteem of others. Becca is Sarah’s sister and Ann her best friend are there every step of the way to guide and support her decisions. When going out with them she was approached by a young man to go for a drink but refused. Her not wanting to date strangers is really not a bad rule. However, she was reluctant to give anyone a real chance after her divorce and her desire to win her father’s approval hanging over her head at all times.

A trip to England and the classes she was taking would change everything. Bored with her life and quitting her job when an ultimatum forced her to make a snap decision, she enters an entire new world in England. Sitting in class she is invited to tea by what one might call the Matriarch of Oxford whose real motive has yet to come out. Uniformity, consistency and no changes are what Sarah is about. Offered a job as an assistant literary agent and hoping to have her first novel published seems to be not what she wants and put on the back burner. Lady Clara appears to have her own agenda for Sarah. Enter Alex Fraser into the pub where she was with several of her classmates. Not realizing who he was or his title Sarah does what would do in America refuse to date a stranger or even have a drink with him. Little did she know he would reenter her life, as he is the Earl of Rutherford and Lady Clara’s grandson? As the relationship blooms she learns more about Alex and soon comes face to face with his brother Robert whose opinion of Alex is anything but sterling. Alex is an actor by profession and although he cares about Sarah his duties to his family and the tabloids stalking him overtake what could be a great relationship. Learning Alex was dating the Prime Minister’s daughter, seeing pictures of her ex-husband in the paper and learning about his impending marriage and honeymoon on a yacht seemed to shake Sarah’s inner core. Despite her friendship with Lady Clara and Alex’s definitely honest affection for her the brief encounter with his brother, the rudeness that ensues and the end result sends her back to the states and back to square one. Not only does she lose Alex but also now she still has to decide on a job. After a whirlwind courtship, plays, dinners and much more Sarah feels deflated even with the support of her sister and her best friend Ann. Trying to find his place as an actor and not looked at only as the Earl of Rutherford, he learns more than he wants when his brother insists he give up his career to tend to family business and concern about the estate. Learning about Emma, his mother, her yen for travel and how she handles being a countess, give Sarah much pause for thought. Change is not something she can readily handle and surprises, although he gave her many were at times not really welcome. Reality sets back in and she returns to the states and one year later she finds herself with Alex back in her life.

Sarah finally learns the truth behind her father’s actions and what is more important is his definition of what he hopes and wants for her. Sometimes semantics or just one word can change everything. Parents need to communicate their thoughts in a way that is understood as Sarah learns that she no longer has to vie for her father’s approval she always had it. When Sarah faces a major change in her life as she is offered the job that she was turned down for. What happened to Patricia was you have to read it for yourself as sometimes what goes around definitely comes around and in this case she definitely got just about what she deserved and hopefully more. But, Sarah decides to finally take a different route and polish that manuscript and hope for the best. When she learns that not only is the novel being published but made into a movie she leaves for England and is thrilled to reunite with Lady Clara. But, when casting the movies she is surprised as to the actor playing the lead. Will she allow herself to deal with Alex? How will she feel when she sees him again? Walking into an elegant Georgian townhouse along with director Michael Williams she meets Alex. Meeting with him and the lead actress difficult and yet cause for a “flash of distain” from Alex. Why? His actions were so distant and angry? What was the reason? Reason: One director and his jealousy. The rest still remains to be seen as misunderstandings and misconceptions seem to go a long way in this novel. Learning more about the director and handling his advances in a professional light, did not help how Alex reacted to her or her to him. But, when a scene goes wrong and she interjects her opinion upon his request what happens next will definitely change the complexion of their fragile relationship and hopefully spark some mutual interest.

Sarah finally realizes that change might not be a bad way to go and explains her feeling to Alex but what comes next is surprising even to her as she learns more about her inner most thoughts observing the lead actress and Alex. But, there were many similarities and definite parallels between the relationship of the leads in the movie and their real life relationship. Just what they were and how they would play out in their real life still has many more scenes to go. Watching the ones between Amelia and Christian did not do much for Sarah, as she felt tense and uneasy watching them act. But, what happens next will enlighten the reader to perhaps the final scene in his or her own special movie. But, the leading lady would produce a special scene and script of her own. What would Sarah’s next move be when she learns the truth behind how and why the movie was being produced and made? Would she do what she normally does? Run or would she listen and realize the truth? As Sarah decides to take ride in the tube something happens and her life is in jeopardy and the reunion in the hospital might change it all as an accident caused by an explosion would bring more than the flames to light. The tabloids enjoy writing about Alex but when it includes them both things need to change and will the person causing the notoriety pay?

A visit from the past brings her perspective back to the present and teaches her that some things never do change and that some men will always be who they are. As Sarah finally have the last word or final say in a scene that was over long before it started. If you want to know who the leading man was in this one you need to read Chapter fourteen in part three of this novel for yourself before the director says the final cut and print. What Alex does will definitely endear you to him and where he winds up and what happens will make you laugh and definitely smile to what lengths some men will go to curb their jealousies. But when the truth behind what Adrian thought comes out you almost wish it wasn’t. Will she embrace change and find a life that will embrace excitement, love and unpredictability or will she decide that the promise of change is not certain and too unpredictable?

Author Rebecca Heflin gives the reader much pause for thought as betrayals come full circle, misunderstandings come to light, promises are broken and others are made proving that The Promise of Change is the promise of excitement, great things to come and what’s more a great novel that promises to keep the reader riveted to the printed page until the final scene is played or in this case written.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Gaia's Gift

2012-02-12T19:17:00.002-05:00

Gaia’s Gift

Author: Fran Orenstein

Isolation and a life all alone without the frills or any type of human communications was the solution Rachel Wells decided for herself as life or fate took away all that mattered to her. When her entire universe sank within the depths of a roaring sea and a storm raged so fiercely that only she survived as Rachel Wells died a slow death in her heart and mind. A storm so fierce she could not control its wrath as her young daughter Emma and her husband Jack vanished into the blackness of the deep sea. Reality set in but only in spurts as Rachel Wells withdrew from life, her friends and herself into a tragic pale specter and shell of a woman so deeply haunted by her own fears, angered at her own survival and consumed with hate for those who had not lost what she had.

Spring is a special season. The world is reborn with greenery, flowers bloom, the air is fresh and rude awakenings can change the deflated, the destroyed and unhappy. Reflections in mirrors do not lie unless you choose to not see what is really within the panes of glass and the images reflected within it. Rachel Wells awakens one morning, faces herself and her image in her mirror and does not recognize the person staring back at her. Realizing the gravity of what she saw facing her she sent out a phone call for help to a dear friend. But Rachel had not come full circle with her anger, fears and her inner self instead she decided to succumb to the cruelty of her neighbors banter about her, the branding her as a witch and the coldness of the warm sum that chilled her instead of giving her warmth. Rachel decided to leave civilization, leave the world she knew and create a safe haven for herself that would provide the shelter and seclusion she wanted, devoid of memories that hurt too much to remember. People hurt and sometimes the pain is too great. Rachel along with the help of her attorney dealt with Jack’s estate and left the world as she knew it to live her life out on an isolated and deserted island with only her cat as her constant companion and limited access to the real world.

Could the same raging storm repeat history five years later? One young child is torn from her mother’s arms while her parents are killed and washed up on the sand. Abigail Stern is now alone in the world and has to fend for herself at the age of three. Awakening she finds herself on this island with a dog. Meeting Rachel would change both of their worlds and the inner rage that flared within Rachel’s heart. From the wreckage of a storm Gaia the goddess of the earth presents Rachel with a special gift of one little precious girl. Angered because she took her family away will her heart soften and the hate melts away by taking care of Abigail?

Flashbacks, feelings, fear and one little girl who came into her life and who thought Rachel to be her mother was more than just a gift to Rachel. More images flash, visions of a life jacket and shed relives the event that took away her family. Why did Abigail think Rachel was her mother? Why didn’t she correct her? Can each one replace the person they lost with another? Why would Gaia present Rachel with this special gift? Two separate worlds blended into one reality or was it? As Rachel and Abigail bonded so tightly and each one learned more about the other the closeness they developed was remarkable and the ties even tighter.

Then a trip to the mainland would enlighten Abby about the real world and her questions about life, television and wanting the net like other kids do disturbs Rachel. Added in is the ever-present scent of lavender that reminds her of Emma and Abby’s feeling or visions of her Emma become more prominent in her mind too. Just how they intertwine and why she sees Emma you have to learn for yourself. Just what happens when Abby meets a group of kids causes Rachel to become fearful yet feeling some guilt. How will this all play out and just why does she feel she can never tell anyone about her?

Gaia’s Gift presents some important issues to the reader. Lies, deceits are told by Rachel to protect the little that she has and the one precious child she loves more than life itself. Is she right? What moral obligation does she have to Abby to find her real family? Is what she’s doing right? The ties that bind them are so fragile yet so tight.

Everything cannot stay the same and Rachel begins to hear two distinct voices in her head trying to help her reason out her situation. Abigail’s visions and feelings about her past become clearer and she shares her thoughts with her new friend Danny before having a severe meltdown. Still fearful of storms and the sea although much older Abby cannot handle the thought of an impending raging storm, Rachel flares up while on a boat with a new friend named Ben and things change as a friendship that could have been wonderful and a life that would be more positive comes to an abrupt halt. Rachel and Abby disappear and no one can find them. Will Danny be able to track them down on his short wave radio? What is next for them both and what does Gaia have in store for Rachel as she prays each morning for one more day?

When Ben learns the truth about Abigail and Rachel will he use it against her? When Abigail learns the startling truth about her parents and the life that flashes back in front of her she does something that frightens not only her but Rachel too. Lies, deceits, betrayals and hidden truths come out and two people’s lives hang in the balance, as Gaia has to decide what is next for Rachel and her special gift.

Author Fran Orenstein leaves the reader with many interesting questions that most would have difficulty coming to terms. What does happen to Rachel and Abigail? Where will they go from here? What unanswered questions are still traveling many routes in both of their minds and what if anything will unite them as a family? From the author of Calling of the Flute comes another Five Star novel that far surpasses so many others.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

This book gets Five More Gifts From Gaia

FIVE OMEGA's FOR THIS GREAT AUTHOR

2012-01-30T07:09:00.002-05:00

Deep Screams

Author: G.R. Holton

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Everyone needs a safe place to live. But, what would happen if the Earth as we know it was no longer inhabitable, too overcrowded and our daily existence questioned? What would happen if groups of people were chosen to find another place or another Earth for people to live? What would happen if the places they found were dangerous, deadly and would put lives at risk? The crew of Omega Space Station and her crew have been commissioned to find another planet to replace Earth. Able to reconcile their differences they set off on this task hoping to find a replacement for Earth. But, what they find will forever rock the inner core of their ship and when they finally land you won’t believe what happens as author G.R. Holton takes Science Fiction to a whole other level.

As the team prepares to go out of their Solar System and make history the Commander gets married, the probe brings in little in the way of life forms and the crew seems to be in getting themselves in place but then something strange happens after being on their mission for over 6 years. The head navigator Chou sees a strange cloud out in space about to overtake the ship. Sending one of their engineers to repair it should have been routine. But, this is space and what is found out there is not what you would have found 100 years of years before. As engineer David Simpkons makes the repairs the red cloud envelopes him preventing him from being able to reboard the ship into safety. When he does he is covered with red dust and particles that for some reason are not totally removed upon reentry. Resuming his duties a strong headache overtakes him and the events that follow alert the Commander and the Doctor that something serious is wrong with David. When the doctor does his primary exam a red particle falls on him causing him to fall prey to some of the same symptoms as David. David goes to his quarters, begins to see things, screams deep within him and the end result is horrific, as one man cannot control his actions and takes his own life. When the suicide comes to light we begin to realize that something dangerous and awful, namely spores imbedded themselves within his brain and the horrors and screams have just begun. There is much more that remains to be seen as the Doctor too just might fall prey to this too.

As the Commander tries to assess what is really happening one man goes on a murderous rampage. The spores infected his brain, delusional, demented and dangerous the Doctor cannot be stopped as the spores overtake his mind and body and the end result you won’t believe the deep and loud screams that went unheard. When the coalition finally realizes that something is wrong and the Omega Station is running on autopilot what will be their next move? Should they send more people to investigate? Should they send another crew? What happens next you have to read for yourself and the events that transpired before are so graphically depicted, violently explained that you feel as if you are there with the victims and can see the evil face and hear the shrilling laugh of one sick doctor. But, the spirits of one man named Simpkons and one Doctor just might haunt this ship forever.

Then it is decided to send another crew from the Argo to investigate what happened to the crew on the Omega Station and hopefully get it back on track. As the crew is assembled and you meet the new cast you learn much about them but they have no idea what they are about to encounter. Meeting the new crew you learn about the relationship between the Commander and the Doctor. You also learn that there is no love lost between the Commander and his new Captain. But will their past relationship hamper their mission? Why is this being kept a secret and what will the end result be?

The crew is ready the training completed and the mental and physical exams prove everyone fit. The weapon’s training is done and all qualify and the next step is to begin the mission. Only the navigator and the commander remain awake the first nine months of the mission while the rest are asleep in stasis chambers the doctor awakened first. Next Kellog and Saunders when a problem is realized and they are headed for an asteroid belt. Will they survive and go through it or lose more time and go around? As the decisions are made, the General informed they begin to bear down and hopefully will make it through. But, in the back we learn more about Dr. Piers and the Commander and the relationship they hope to rekindle when all is said and done.

When the team that is awake finally gets past the asteroid and the rest of the crew is awakened the next step is to find Omega. Assessments and calculations must be made and there is no room for error as the crew and both teams work together to get the job done and hopefully find the missing crew. But several things go wrong and one Corporal is injured but for the most part the mission seems to be going well but they have yet to find out what really happened to the crew and as the title states there are many more Deep Screams that will be heard.

Author G.R. Holton takes the reader on a ride in space filled with bumps, the unexpected, space exploration and the feeling that you are right there with these men and women trying to find this missing crew and hopefully a new home for humans to inhabit. The author also brings to light what happens when two men put aside their differences to work together for the common good. Protocols followed, procedures outlined and one Commander Named Derrick on the line for the entire mission. What will be the fate of this second crew? What will happen when they learn the truth and will the ghost of the doctor haunt them? Is Vlasizk really dead? What about Simpkon’s spirit?

When the connections are made and they find Omega the site they behold will stay with them forever. But, there is no time for remorse, reflection or dealing with the deaths in an emotional way as one young Specialist fall apart for a short time, and the rest of the crew rally around to get the jobs done. The General states that the Earth Coalition wants the crew of the Argo to become the new crew of the Omega and continue the mission to find a new planets for humans and they will remain in space for at least 15 years in order to get the job done. One general that seems to be more concerned with the mission than the crew and leaves no room for questioning his authority or his command as the Commander of the new Omega and the Captain and his security team take on different roles.

The vision of the dead is nothing compared to what the author has in store for the Omega crew or is it those deceased whose work has not been completed and whose message to the new crew, well they have their own way of transmitting. As Specialist/Navigator Kellog needs some rest, the Commander is returning to his quarters and Lieutenant Saunders about to retire for the night, each experiences a different kind of coldness, apparition or strange feeling. But, what about Nurse Long? Who locked her in the refrigerator and would not let her out? Just what or who has taken over the Omega just when they think they might have found a new planet? The end is definitely close at hand but the result and what happens just might make astronauts think twice about signing up for another mission.

As the mission continues some see things, others experience dangerous situations and two spirits will not rest. One needs to be sent off into space and the other has taken over more than just the ship. What happens as the end you just won’t believe as the haunting continue, the strange occurrences frightening and the Deep Screams: Well: You decide if the danger is over. Author G. R. Holton brings a touch of Star Wars, Star Trek, Babylon 5 and his own brand of Science Fiction in this unique novel that will make the reader wonder: Just what is in outer space and do you we really want to find out? Will the Omega crew survive? How they try to solve the problem and rid themselves of the spirits? I can’t tell you that! You need to read if for yourself. Will they ever finish their mission? Paranormal or Para Evil? What’s next? Only the author knows that and he is keeping the next mission a secret! World Castle: You have a definite winner here!

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Dating Can Be Really WIld

2012-01-27T10:42:00.004-05:00

Check Please…Truthful Stories of Dates Gone Wrong

By Author: Richard W. Wiener

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Dating takes careful planning, practice and in this day and age you might say it has become an art or a full time job to find the right person to even consider going out with or even meeting over the phone. Stacy and Clinton’s show What Not To Wear is the prime example of how to get women and men to look and act appropriately. Now, all we need is a show to help young adults, adults and seniors do the same. Author Richard Wiener has written stories after going on over 180 dates to help the single reader discern Who and What Not To Date and Why? This book is hilarious, filled with short fast paced stories that will keep you laughing, brings tears to your eyes and hopefully teach you some valuable lessons in what to look for before you press send on an email, make that dinner reservation or decide to take that romantic plunge. One disclaimer or Warning: Make sure that you do not drink tons of liquid before reading this book. You will understand what I mean after I relate the first story and explain what happened to Paul when he dated Molly. But, first let me explain that our author, Richard has been widowed since 2007 and having a wonderful and life and marriage he was hoping to find another perfect mate. Here are his stories told from both the male and female point of view. Here is what or whom not to date!

Let’s get started and meet Paul the first guy who learns the hard way who not to date. First of all he went online and met Molly on Match.com. They went out and had a few dates but something was off. She drank too much but that did not deter him from wanting to see on New Years and have a romantic night. Needless to say all went well and the romance was strong but the end result well. Think about what happens when you drink too much and don’t make it there in time. Poor Paul never knew what flooded him. That’s all I’ll say. Next we meet Alfred and Angie who find each other quite attractive. But, dinner proved to be more than just an expense for him. But, the classic and really hysterical story is story three. The title I won’t give away as Roger and Alice go to dinner several times. Mexican food sets the stage for what happens next. Imagine a loud noise during a romantic interlude. You guess the rest. Some men want to date someone within their age bracket and others really do not care. Ralph met Brenda who claimed to be within his age range. Seeing her photo he emailed her and even used a magnifying glass to enhance the photo before contacting her for their first date. What happens and the end result is some women try to turn back the age calculator but think the correct sum will not be found? There is Debbie whose perception of her was off and whose drinking skills were definitely over the top.

The stories are told from both a male and female point of you in a straightforward conversation tone that will keep you laughing, reading, smiling and definitely taking notes if you’re single to learn the definite don’ts of dating. So many stories gone wrong and of course the check at times for these poor unsuspecting males: Well they should have asked for you it way before they did. This is a definite must read, must have book that will take away the fuss and muss of dating by explaining in no uncertain terms Who and What Not to Do and Date!

Poor Gerry actually met someone that he really liked. Eva was everything he hoped for and lived in a wealthy area and invited him for dinner. Unfortunately, he ate something that disagreed with him and the end result was not really odor free. Poor Gerry had to find a way to escape before anyone realized it was not perfume coming from the powder room. There are so many more stories. Poor Alex who really liked Georgia but what she revealed to him at the end of the date well, you had to be there to see his face when she told him the truth. Some dating secrets cannot and will not be revealed by this reviewer. I really don’t think Alex wants this tidbit to be spread around.

Jeff was desperate for a date for a wedding and was totally unsuccessful with the online community. When meeting Jane at a deli counter who thought he might have a direct hit. Little did he know that the only thing this one hit was the bottle. But, we are not up to that yet. Several dates, the wedding at hand everything in place and what happens during the course of the wedding should make any man weary about any woman who drinks and has tons of pills in her purse. The end result will definitely make you think twice before bringing a blind date to a wedding. So, far all of these stories are from the man’s viewpoint. Wait until you get the woman’s!

What could be worse than having dinner with someone in a filthy home and finding more than you bargain for in the bedroom. As poor Ron learned as he looked around the room and up at the ceiling he made a mad dash for his car and prayed he did not bring any visitors back with him. There is the stalker and then the liars plus those who just get wasted plus the unruly kids which was really so funny. These poor guys were so polite and understanding it is too amazing. But, the funniest story in this part was the one with Jill and Ross and what happens on what was supposed to be an ordinary date to a concert. This one is priceless. Let’s move on Part Two and the Woman’s point of view!

Let’s meet our first male named Bob. Poor Joyce broke her own rule and allowed herself to go to his townhouse after dinner. Well: She got more than just a view from the terrace. That’s all I will say about that. You can draw your own conclusions or your own bare picture. Of course how would react if someone took out their bridge during dinner? The stories are really so true to life and after dating for 8 years before meeting my husband I can honestly attest to the fact that these things really do happen and sometimes the events are worse than ever. You begin to wonder why put yourself through it ever again. Men do strange things on dates just like women. I have to be fair. There is Al who thought show and tell might work. There are those who think nothing of splitting the tab. Then, there are some who are just plain rude.

Looks matter when dating and you cannot say that it does not go both ways. Men want to date women that are great looking, have great bodies and women want men that are attractive and appealing. Some women lie and men do too so when author Richard Wiener relates the stories from the woman’s viewpoint and having experienced some dates blind ones but never online and similar if not worse than those described you have to wonder why anyone would go through this torture just to meet a guy or gal and go on a date. Dates from you know where are definitely not uncommon. So when poor Liza meets Vince and gets stuck with more than just half the bill you wonder why these women do not speak up. All of the stories are hilarious, true and definitely will give the dater much pause for thought. If I could give a book more than five stars it would be this one. You can be sure that when I announce my picks for this month this one will be at the top of the list. Faye is our total heroine. Blind dates you need to be really careful and warning when they do not give want you to come over to their homes or never give you their home number who might want to do what she did and hire an investigator. You won’t believe what she does to Get Even and how the story ends. I could go on and tell you more about their horrific dates but that would ruin your fun reading these stories for yourself. You could not make this stuff up nor did the author. These are well written told in a conversational tone. You almost feel as if you are on the dates along with these unsuspecting people. From liars, to cheaters to self0 absorbed this book has it all. Author Richard Wiener brings to light one very basic question? Why do you put ourselves through it? Everyone needs a companion or most need one. The warning signs are all there. The evidence has been presented and the verdict is in: Check Please and Hurry is definitely a best seller and a great resource for Who and What Not To Date. This book would make a great reality show and definitely give daters a strong wake up call.

I never give stars that is so ordinary: I give Richard: FIVE PERFECT LAST DATES: HOPE YOU FIND HER SOON. You deserve the best!

Fran Lewis: Glad she does not have to date anymore: Reviewer

Dating Can Really Make you Think!

2012-01-27T10:35:00.000-05:00

Check Please…Truthful Stories of Dates Gone Wrong

By Author: Richard W. Wiener

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

I never give stars that is so ordinary: I give Richard: FIVE PERFECT LAST DATES: HOPE YOU FIND HER SOON. You deserve the best!

Fran Lewis: Glad she does not have to date anymore: Reviewer

FIVE GOLD SKELETON KEYS

2012-01-25T18:37:00.001-05:00

Skelton Key

Author: Jeff LaFerney

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

One young man has extraordinary powers that allow him to control the thoughts and minds of others. As the story opens Tanner Thomas is on the court and meets one young man on the opposing team whose methods are anything but sportsman like. Clay Thomas, his father is watching from the stands, as Tanner seems distracted and not focused on what his goal is during the game. One sentence would change it all as Tanner goes up close and personal in Newton’s face and the entire direction and result of the game changes. Diagnosed with special powers that he uses to control the actions and thoughts of others and his father have this unique and special bond. Clay attempting for explore telekinesis, mind control and telepathy helps guide him along the way. But, things were altered when Clay meets Erika Payne and learns about the disappearance of her husband Adrian in a tragic train accident. Adrian Payne was not the best husband or person in this world. Hiring Roberto Gomez was a favor to Roberto’s wife Stacy who Adrian had more than a friendly interest. When Adrian disappeared after the train crashes his son Logan reverted deeper into his shell, his wife was happier and the mystery surrounding his disappearance unsolved. So, when Dr. Zander in his own way manipulates Clay to meet Ericka and Logan he hopes to not only use Clay and his powers to find out what might have happened to Adrian but maybe do a little matchmaking too. What neither Clay or Sander realize is that Erika is no stranger to Clay.

Imagine having a super brain that can move objects held by others, control their thoughts, actions and what the other person reads. As things fall into play Tanner agrees that his father should help Erika, go caving with her and along with him, hopefully solve the mystery of Adrian’s disappearance and help Logan too. Clay seems to have lost faith in himself, finding closure after his wife’s death and hopefully will use his extraordinary powers to aid someone else. Author Jeff LaFerney delves deep into the mysteries of the mind, ESP, telekinesis, mind control and much more as he explains how this works and the wonders of the brain.  

Erika Payne seems to be every man’s dream girl. After Adrian’s disappearance she seems to be thriving better. Her son Logan, although handling certain situations seems to be locked in his own inner world not sharing his thoughts with anyone. Roberto Gomez is a wonderful husband and father and has been called in by the Railroad Company after another break in at the depot. Then things begin to come to light as Erika meets Clay after so many years and they begin to bond. Clay rather than hiding his abilities uses them to get to know her and tells Erika the truth about his extraordinary abilities and Tanner’s too. Erika uses her feminine wiles and things begin to heat up in the cool cave as he joins her for a caving expedition. But, there is much more to this story as the author lets the reader in on just what kind of businessman man Adrian was, the schemes he used to gain control of others and what his partner was doing that allowed him to get away with blackmail, embezzling and much more. Mortonson might have been his partner but sometimes people pay Paul in order as the expression goes to pay Peter. When he gets caught he becomes more creative and as some people behind those prison bars today found out, double books might bring more than double trouble. So, who is behind the break ins at the depot? Why are all of the items ransacked and yet the furniture replaced where Adrian would have liked it? Could the intruder be a ghost with a special message that no one seems to understand? Parapsychology, a supernatural science that could be the underlying formula to help find out who and what is really behind the break ins and Adrian’s disappearance. Can a police chief, one ghost, one man named Clay and one young teen solves the mystery? Can Clay really trust Dr. Zander? Why don’t he open up to him? Will working with Erika change things and give him back the faith in life he lost when Jessie was murdered? This remains to be seen as I continue my review of Skeleton Key.

Trust, not an easy thing for Clay but one he just might learn as he and Erika venture into the cave as he begins to learn what happens when you flounder in the dark, not knowing what path to follow and hoping to come out in the light. Then, Clay and Tanner go to lunch and something changes everything. One vision would bring the events to follow into focus as Tanner sees the future and understands what happened in the past. What would one picture on Erika’s office have to do with where Adrian might be buried, the break- INS and the hope for Erika’s son and herself? Why would this picture be calling out to him and how would he use his powers to convince the police to help them? As the puzzle starts to form and the pieces are beginning to fit they try and enlist the help of Marshall Mortonson who declines. Telekinesis, moving objects with his mind, mind control, ESP, controlling thoughts of others and much more are the basis of what Clay and Tanner can do and hopefully use for the good of helping Erika and the town solve a serious mystery and possibly a murder. Picturing the burial and the skeletal remains in his mind alerts Tanner that there is much more to this mystery and the secret behind the picture. As Clay is looking directly at the picture he begins to hear a voice that is trying to lead him in the right direction. However, all the clues point to horses and different expressions people use related to them. Just what is this ghost trying to convey and why did everyone hate him? Just what rotten things did he do to people and how would Logan and Erika feel when the truth is revealed?

Imagine some men digging up grave but not because they chose to. Imagine someone manipulating his or her thoughts and actions in order to solve a mystery. Cool isn’t it. Wouldn’t it be nice if every police force had a Clay and Tanner as backup? As the events of the train wreck are brought to light questions are formed many question marks arise. What really happened that night? Who buried Adrian and why was the body hidden with the horses? Where was the body before it was buried? Why was Logan, who hated his father so upset when he learned of his death? What will Adrian’s ghost do to lead them to the answers they need? What does the saying one better deed mean and ease the pain? What is the significance of the Skeleton Key? How would that help them find the answers? What would it open? As the suspects mount up one young man seems to be hiding something that might break it all wide open. What does Logan remember that he is not telling about the crash? Why is he the only one that is upset over his father’s death? Why did Adrian hate his own son? Can a ghost lead everyone to the culprit? Just wait and see what happens and read the startling ending of this outstanding novel.

Suspects brought in for questioning. Clues beginning to fall into place. Skeleton uncovered. Keys in many different hands. So, let’s analyze this so that we can come to some conclusion. But, don’t think that I am going to tell you who did it and what really happened to Adrian. You see, he’s been haunting the Depot for years and will scare, hurt and if necessary terrorize anyone who gives away too much of the plot. He was an embezzler, rapist, mean guy, rotten father, cheating husband and awful business partner. All around nice guy some would sarcastically say. No one really cared about his death or that he was missing for seven years. As Clay and Hopper uncover the truth with Tanner’s help they learn more than they bargain for and the spotlight is placed on several live bodies and one skeleton. Who killed Adrian? (I told you not to dare tell.) Why was he killed? (You better not tell or I will haunt you too.) The medical examiner claimed the crash killed him. Adrian: Am I right? You claim Heart Attack? (You got that right). But, you know he’s a liar and won’t give it all away. Neither will I. Secrets revealed. Truths heard. Several surprises come to light and many lives will be changed. There are more skeletons uncovered in many different closets than the bones in his body, which might not wind up where he hoped. Characters that are well developed and well defined. A plot that is fast paced, easy to follow but an ending that will mystify the reader and keep you guessing until the very last word is read. Tanner and Clay father and son. Logan and Erika mother and son. Two men with extraordinary powers. Mind control, precognition, telekinesis and so much more. Let’s hope author Jeff LaFerny brings them back to try and solve more crimes with one police Chief named Hopper who is really unique and quite the opposite of most. (Okay: so what really happened to me. The reviewer won’t tell. You better get your own copy of Skelton Key if you want to find out what lies beneath the bones.) One great author. One great plot. Watch out: Jeff LaFerney is the new up and coming mystery writer about to rise to the top.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer and Adrian Payne: I concur!

We shall give this book: FIVE GOLD SKELETON KEYS

Meet Karen Vaughn

2012-01-24T16:43:00.001-05:00

Meet multi-talented author Karen Vaughn. Her novels are quirky, unique, well written and will keep you guessing until the very end. Dead on Arrival watch out when you walk into your living room. Dead Comic Standing you better hope you are funny get some laughs on stage. To find out the rest. Read this interview with this amazing author. Leave some comments. Ask some questions and better yet buy her books.

I am your host for this interview: Fran Lewis

Title of your novel and a short summary DEAD COMIC STANDING

Be careful what you joke about---It might just kill you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Someone out there doesn’t think the local comics are funny.

He’ll kill to prove it.

Police are racing to find the killer before he claims another victim.

Comedians are always trying to find that killer joke - but now they’re dying, literally!

Dead Comic Standing brings you comedy, action and steamy romance.

You’ll be dying to keep on reading!

1.How did you choose the main topic or theme for your book?

I have always loved Stand-up comedy and I had the opportunity to participate. After that I wondered what if someone didn’t like comedians and how they used family and significant others as the brunt of their jokes as his girlfriend had and decides to rid the world of comedians.

2. Who are your major characters and how do they blend or work together?

Shelley is an up and coming comedienne in a Comedy-club; she delivers her material with the zing of a professional.

Jeff- is the owner/manager of the club and later forms a love connection with Shelley. He is a great boss and has a fantastic rapport with all the talent working at his club.

Vince Vetters is a detective in the police force along with his partner Myra. Vince’s brother Phil is a comedian at Jeff’s club and is one of the first victims of the serial killer.

Borneo and Cassway are two beat cops called in as first responders and help solve the case.

3. Which character do you love the most? Which one would you like to kill off or change something about? I liked Shelley the best as she has a truckload of spunk and feistiness to make her a true survivor. I should have made Hank Cavanaugh more quirky instead of a heavy character with a myriad of serious mental health issues.

4. Where does your story take place and why? The novel is set in Edmonton Alberta, Canada. I am Canadian myself and I wanted a Canadian locale.

5. What makes your book stand out above the rest? I really do think the plot is a unique one and I love to think outside the box with my characters and plots. Why is your story unique? I had never read any story like this involving serial murder and stand-up comedians as the victims. The really unique feature of the book is that I wrote the routines for the comics. I used stories submitted by friends for some of the routines. Friends even asked to die in the book.

6. If you could rewrite any part of your novel what would you change? I killed off Hank and maybe I should have had him rot in jail.

7. What has been the most surprising part of your journey as a writer? That I actually wrote a book and that people like my quirkiness.

8. How many new ideas do you have? I have a list of ideas for my series DEAD ON ARRIVAL and OVER HER DEAD BODY and my work in progress DAYTONA DEAD. I also have ideas for other mysteries and a romance I want to write.

9.Do you keep a list or are your thoughts on your computer? Most are in a file on computer that I really want to do and a list of others that are kind of iffy right now.

10.What are the main or essential qualities of a good novel? A great unique plot, likeable protagonists, equally hateable villains, action, romance, tastefully written steamy sex, a touch of comic relief, fast paced dialogue make a great dialogue.

How do you keep the reader pinned to the printed page throughout the novel? I find ways to incorporate all of the above. I want the reader to say “WOW!” as they read or tell me they laughed so hard they cried, had to break for a cold shower whatever it takes to keep their interest.

How to Make A Big Bang reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-24T12:24:00.002-05:00

How To Make A Big Bang

Authors: Andrew Flambaum and Victor Flambaum

Reviewed by fran lewis

One young girl named Amunet is about to set a chain of events that will rock the world and the fate of those on Earth. Creating a flower, a blue flower, called Ossumia, she hopes to create a new Universe billions of years from now better than ours. As she names the pyramid within it Chaos and the second Divinity, Amunet explains to the reader the meaning of each and how it will impact humanity. Fast forward 14 billion years and meet Alice K. Alice has been chosen to leave her world and join another. She is to live with an alien group and teach them about our world and hopefully us about their world. But, as the imperfections in the blue flower are needed to help create the world Amunet wanted, Alice is about to go on a journey that would end the world, fall down a black hole and hopefully save herself, the cat and one strange parrot her only companions on this journey. Imagine winning a contest and being selected for this special voyage along with a ship that can verbally guide her, named Joe, Alice sets forth, against the advice of many, on this journey. As she realizes the gravity of what happens and the end result she wishes and asks the ship to take her back to see the devastation that occurred when Earth disappears and the sun’s light goes out forever. Can one young human create a new Universe and world better than the one that no longer exists? Will she survive? How to Make Big Bang? You are about to find out what that means and much more.

Learning more about Alice and voyage learn about the fall of the solar system, the planets surrendering and Alice finding a new home on a planet called Utopia. Sounds perfect doesn’t it. But, when you learn more about the inhabitants and their life you just might not think that perfect is the real way to go and living in a carbon copy society where everyone and everything looks and does the same thing really the perfect life.

Alice and her group encounter Anushol and learn more about Utopia and the lives of those there. Artificial perfection is how they perceive their society and what happens to them and their collapse is no surprise when an inner revolt changes everything and their perfect world crumbles. Moving the story ahead ten more years.

Utopia no longer exists and Alice and her travelers wind up on another planet to be attacked by robots. These robots were placed there in order to create the proper habitat for future civilizations. An inner revolt and a social disturbance added to the fact they wanted to create a perfect human specimen with no imperfections gave way to the end of the Utopians except for one last person in a lone cell. Alice and her group wind up on another constellation filled with strange inhabitants namely robots. These robots are supposed to create an environment for humans to come. The life chain described is really quite unique and the end result remains to be seen. Technology is quite different. Travel not the way we know it and Alice is about to enter what the authors call Dark Matter which according them is hypothetical. Defined in their glossary as 25 percent of the universe’s content with properties of invisibility and transparency including gravity. Dark Matter exists because its gravitational attraction changes the movement or motion of stars and galaxies as Alice learns more about her new world and the mysteries surrounding it. Hence they describe and define the Big Bang Theory, which according to the dictionary means that the universe originated sometime between 10 and 20 billion years ago from a cataclysmic explosion of a small volume of matter at very high density and temperature. This theory is the prevailing cosmological model that explains the early development of the Universe according to Wikipedia. 1] According to the Big Bang theory, the Universe was once in an extremely hot and dense state, which expanded rapidly. This rapid expansion caused the young Universe to cool and resulted in its present continuously expanding state. According to the most recent measurements and observations, this original state existed approximately 13.7 billion years ago, [2][3] which is considered the age of the Universe and the time the Big Bang occurred. (Wikipedia).

How does this relate to Alice and her voyagers well now things begin to change for them as their ship takes on another form, namely human, they meet those behind this confusion and change called the Djinns who take on any form they choose and Saifan seems to be their guide. Now, you should know that Djinns enjoy playing the piano and watching the erasures of the world as a hobby. But, there is much more. Would you believe it if I told you there are millions of these Djinns and they are heading off to war. Dark Matter Saifan tells Alice protects her world from their world. He goes on to explain even more. But, think about this. What would you do if you had all the time in the world to do whatever you wanted? What would you do if your life was or seemed endless? Their weapons are cosmic and their standards are bigger than ours. Boundless ability and infinite time! What do you think? So, what happens when Alice challenges the leader? You guessed it they wind up back on their ship at what you might say square one. So, we begin to think that maybe we think too much, ponder the wrong thoughts and never think out of the box. Alice carried with her a photograph from the previous year and saw herself before all of this changed her life and her as well. Sometimes one glance in a picture is all you need to make you realize you are not the same person. Poor Alice and her travelers are now trapped on the rim of a black hole with no sun and no solar system in sight. Alice is no longer part of the human world. How would you feel if you were now considered an Alien with no real home or place to go. Amunet and Keku warned her. The Djinns ejected them. Where would they go next and what will happen when the cosmic journey filled with scientific facts and a glossary of terms at the end of the book takes this group on an adventure of more than a lifetime.

Using the right words is not always easy and as Alice learns she needs to learn more than just about the cosmos and the universe as she meets Sytus a captain in the titan army and embarks on another journey. Learning what they do and how they materialize is quite fascinating. Trying to explain her plight and the part she played in the extinction of earth and the solar system more complicated. From the cosmos, to neutrons to the planets and the way the world and universe work this book gives the reader more than just a unique plot and novel but a total cosmic journey too. So who will prevail: the titans or the djinns? So, how does a universe get destroy? What happens to the djinns? What finally is the fate of the Titans and what do you rule? Absolutely nothing: Just one book cosmic graveyard: That is the end of the Big Bang at least for now as the travelers need to find yet another place to live.

Poor Alice finds herself in a cemetery and realizes the headstone is hers. A news article in a planetary paper tells of her untimely death. A dream that she has would connect all of the stars you might say as Alice takes trip back to her classroom, learns more about the past and they find themselves in a prison in Xakoxe with a jailer named Zyxler.

Alice, Mara and Meowhugs meet many along the way in many different universes, wars fought, some won and the end result will find them not where they expected to be. No giant planet but in a field of asteroids. As Keku and Amunet come back into the picture we find out he has to go to their version of summer school for doing a project that did not come out the right way. Amunet has a more pressing problem, as she now has to take a class in Manipulation the one word that applies to all that happens in this novel. Poor Amunet who started the entire chain reaction at the beginning finds herself front and center facing a difficult situation. As Alice learns and so does she it is not your career, your job performance or confidence that matters or will get you ahead in life. You need to be deceitful, manipulative and everything she is not. Liars win according to do this teacher and Amunet is going to pay the price for defying her as she pits her against her best friend Keku in a mind game. The price is too high for her as she chooses her own fate. Will someone come to her aide? Examining her own Universe she finds a note form someone that might explain it all. But what happens in class the next day will definitely give you pause for thought. What does happen in class? Find out when you read it for yourself. Just where do Alice and the travelers wind up you won’t believe it? Will Amunet figure out a way to save her and her friends? This book brings to light what happens when different worlds collide, different groups of people cannot get along and the Universes as we know them collide and only some will survive. Alice retraces her past, sees the future and understands the present but what will happen to her? Who are the creators and what does she learn when she meets Amunet? Manipulation: Deceit, Truths, friendship and fear! Which wins out? You decide after reading this book and the starling ending. One thought provoking book. One Alice! Two authors that bring to light so many issues about life, the Universe, the cosmos and survival of the fittest and true friendship. A cosmic journey in print better than Star Wars, Star Trek and Babylon 5 that will send the reader wanting more and hoping the authors will continue the journey.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Switched : Author Amanda Hocking reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-23T09:24:00.000-05:00

Switched : Author Amanda Hocking reviewed by Fran Lewis

Read my new book

2012-01-22T18:30:00.002-05:00

http://www.amazon.com/Faces-Behind-the-Stones-ebook/dp/B0070ED9G6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1327274752&sr=8-2

Read my new book

2012-01-22T18:29:00.002-05:00

http://www.amazon.com/Faces-Behind-the-Stones-ebook/dp/B0070ED9G6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1327274752&sr=8-2

Kardashian Konfidential

2012-01-20T16:49:00.002-05:00

Kardashian Konfidential

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Sisters: never were there such devoted sisters as the song says. Well: The three Kardashian sistahs as they would say are not any different than you and your sisters except maybe their fairytale life, their amazing childhoods filled with parties, animals, great parents, glitz and glam. But, one thing that rings true throughout this entire book is their loyalty and love for each other and family bond. Intertwined in each chapter, which the reader will really love is the tattletale dialogue that reminds each sister of the pranks, fun and wild times they had growing up. Poor Kim what Khole used to do to her. Well you have to read it to appreciate it and you are definitely going to laugh and identify with some of things they did to each other and the fun they had at each other’s expense. Wait: We did not get to Rob yet. I have only touched the tip of the iceberg.

The book was written by all three sisters who seem to be speaking directly to the reader making you feel as if they are talking directly to you and getting you to feel a part of their story from the start. Fairytale beginning, becoming involved in reality T.V., clothing, jewelry and much more you really get to know them up close and personal including parents and Bruce Jenner. So, let’s see how smart you are and what you think you already know about these three women. From makeup tips, to fashion sense, fashion faux pas you will definitely get it all here and much more.

Question: Which sister’s horoscope sign is Aries? She is unpredictable, confident, never leaves home without her Blackberry, wallet and little bit of fashion? Well: if you don’t know I guess I can tell you its Kourtney. But, there is much more to learn about her but you will have to read that for yourself. Next, which sister is a Libra? She is tactful, a princess, sweet, hardworking, dramatic and never leaves home without her Blackberry, American Express Black Card and big sunglasses. Yes: it is Kim!

Finally, which sister’s sign is Cancer? Known for her wicked wit, colorful language, street-smart attitude, and never leaves home without her wedding ring, Blackberry, credit card and face powder? Well: by process of elimination you guessed it has to be Khloe. Now, if you want to understand the language of Kardashian you need to read and memorize their own special glossary and definitions on page 11.

Flashing back to the beginning and where they grew up fills the colorful pages of chapter one titled Tower Lane. From family parties, to zoos, animals, and the fun times they had growing up you can smile, laugh and cry along with them as they lived a life every child would love to have been given and from the way they tell it appreciated it in every way. I especially love that their Dad, Robert played such an integral part in their lives; made sure he knew everything they did in school and insisted that they talk about the best and worst part of their day at dinner. I also love that no phones were to be at the dinner table or answered during family time.

From their Armenian heritage to the individual stories about growing up, family feuds, their parent’s divorce and their reaction to it, they allow the reader an inside look at their lives, their true feelings about their parent’s breakup and how it affected each one of them individually. When Bruce came into their lives Khloe loved him right away, Kourtney had some trouble adjusting and Kim seemed to be okay with him too as he had four kids their ages and he turned out to be the best thing in their lives after losing their Dad. Added into the story is their parent’s friendship with OJ Simpson and his wife Nicole. Things changed drastically for them as a family and for how they were accepted in public as their father sided with OJ and their mother strongly believed he killed Nicole. That is not one topic that is neither up for discussion any time soon nor will they comment on it.

Next, they continue with many reasons you might think they were spoiled brats: Spoiled by admit brats no. Earning everything they had, having to adhere to the contract or rules set out by both parents when presented with their own cars after graduating high school you learn a lot about their family values, the understanding that school and grades mattered and what would happen as a result of any infractions. Believe it or not they did not get credit cards to charge up anything they wanted and if they wanted to do serious shopping they needed the cash. But, the best picture reminding me of my sister and myself is the one of Kim and Kourtney dressed alike. My mom bought my sister and I the same dresses in different colors growing up. I really did not like that because she was thin and I was not.

As you read the story you hear the voices of each one of the girls, listen to their words, read between the lines and laugh at some of the same things everyone does. We continue with Khloe’s bad girl attitude, poor choices in friends and rebellious stages including lessons she learned from her mistakes. We also learn more and Kourtney and their relationship with each other including their mom and Bruce Jenner. Khloe’s admissions about feeling different, her battle with her weight and how she dealt with many other problems are the most compelling. One major car crash would give her a reality check. Wrong choices often bring about the wrong results teaching not only Khloe the true meaning of taking ownership of your life, your mistakes and how they to correct them. OCD seems to run in the family. Kim is a neat freak, Kourtney just the opposite in certain respects but not all, Kim quite organized in others. However, I could use Kourtney’s skills in how to organize closets and drawers and maximizing the space you have which in my case is quite limited. Each one of the SISTAHS has her own form of OCD- from cataloging pictures and scrapbooks, to draws and closets and finally the ability to create a perfect bed and room, these sisters are quite unique but not so different from the rest of us if you really think about it.

Independence comes from learning to care for your own car, what happens when you lose it and feeling isolated and alone at school. Added into each chapter is a chat room session or gossip or tell all sidebar of conversations between the sisters recounting pranks, fights and other funny things that happened.

Written in a conversational tone from the viewpoint of each sister this books is straightforward, no holds barred and quite revealing. If you are waiting for a murder, mystery, intrigue or strong character development to draw the story to a close you won’t find all of those novel elements here. What will get are strong sisters, conversational tones, honest accounts filled with humor, sarcasm, sadness told in their special unique way giving the reader an inside scoop on their lives, their mishaps, successes and much more.

From great tips on how to sell on EBay to throwing a sick party to owning her a clothing store these sisters have managed to do it all. Opening one store without Kim and then finally including her and creating Dash and many other enterprises.

The next chapter is very dear to them it focuses on their father Robert. While reading this chapter you will learn more about their father, how they bonded with him and the things they learned from him as each girl lists her feelings and thoughts. Next, we teach more about Kris their momanger and how each one bonded with her in a different way. Kim being the most like their mom and Khloe and Kourtney quite different. Yet, one thing does come through loud and clear is that they are family, sisters first and foremost and proud of whom they are and all they have accomplished. Added to that all three tell how they deal with fans, the press, photo ops, the many mistakes they have made and how each one moves ahead and does not dwell on the past.

Moving ahead the rules for being a Celeb, which are found really great because they do not just, apply to being a Celeb but anything in life. Whether you are a doctor, lawyer, and educator like me, book reviewer, actress or the star of a reality show there are certain rules of protocol to follow and their set rules listed I found quite valuable. They are 6 common sense rules that most people if not all should follow. Just read them on pages 132-135.

Now for my favorite parts of the book the ones I can truly relate to. Rules for handling the press, how to handle fans, hair, makeup, clothes and fashion tips that are totally fantastic and vital to any girl’s wardrobe. The basic list of what you need to have in your closet, how to organize it and the importance of taking care of yourself, good grooming, caring for your clothes and much more will help you become your own fashionista. From how to eat and stay healthy, to the I never weigh myself ever, this book includes their take on school, clothes, hair, makeup, men, boys, kids, romance, success in business, family values and so much more. Last but not least let’s not forget Rob and what he had to endure being their brother. From start to finish you get the full scoop on these girls including fabulous photos, gossip tips, cards for all occasions and so much more. This is truly a fun book to read and will definitely give up a positive perspective about these amazing women, their mom, father, their younger sisters, Rob and of course Bruce. My favorite store is Bebe: Have to check out the fashions they created for them. Finally, we get a inside peek at Kim’s wedding. Final closing remarks are their Faves. My closing remarks:

This is one book that will let you get to know these women in a more personal light. It is funny, written in a conversational tone and includes their very own thoughts, feelings and advice. My advice to you: Read the book: You will not be disappointed.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer: This book gets: FIVE GOLD SEALED KARDASIAN KONFIDENTIAL ENVELOPES: The information is sealed and the only way you will learn what is in each one is if you read the book: This review is dedicated to Robert George Kardashian for all that you gave your daughters and if all they have told and remembered about you. You would be proud!

Blossoms of the Lower Branches: A Heros Journey Through Grief

2012-01-17T11:30:00.000-05:00

Blossoms of the Lower Branches: A Heros Journey Through Grief

Need You Now: Reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-16T14:17:00.002-05:00

Need You Now

Author James Grippando

Reviewed By Fran Lewis

One man decided to take matters into his own hands and end his life. This same man pulled off a Ponzi scheme right in front of everyone’s eyes and thought he would never get caught. Rather than face the music, pay the penalty or even divulge where the money was hidden, Abe Cushman took a leap out of a window and buried his secrets and money along with him. But, there is much more to this story as another young man, Gerry Collins who thinks he can escape the wrath of those that were swindled. After all he was what you made say or call Abe’s point man who helped get these unsuspecting investors to hand over their money thinking he was investing it when he really want not.

Patrick Lloyd is a young Wall Street guy who finds himself embroiled and caught in this web of deceit and lies. Working with the Bank Of Switzerland, thinking he was included in a special meeting for assistant Financial Advisors, what happens to him is right out of today’s headlines. As Patrick learns the real reason the Director of the bank and what information they think he has to help find what Cushman stole from so many investors summoned him to a meeting. But, there is much more as Patrick as seeing a young girl named Lilly who they think knows more than she’s admitting and was fired from her position in the Singapore branch of the bank and whom they think Patrick has linked up with. Patrick blindsided by this meeting promises to help, is not fired and then kidnapped by those who would rather have him dead asking for the same information but definitely in stronger way letting him know his life depended on his next move. Reenter Lilly who turns up out of no where hoping to connect with him taking the reader inside the mind of those who feel they can fleece the public, banks and allude the FBI’s wide net. But, Patrick’s troubles have only just begun as not only does this secret group want a piece of him, the bank and suddenly the FBI. Explaining her position with the bank, her part in the money transfers you begin to wonder why Lilly fell for this scheme. Claiming she knew nothing about the Cushman money the Treasury had a memo identifying her as the point person for all of the activities. She claimed she was feeding money into Cushman’s Fund and not taking it out. But, Times Square Tour Guide is out 2 billion dollars and will do anything to make sure they get it back. Threats both physical and worse hang over her head and Patrick’s as she promised she would find and return the funds within one week.

Enter one of my favorite characters FBI agents Andie Henning who knows what Patrick is up to and who he is secretly working for in order to investigate Lilly and fund out where the funds might be. Unfortunately, for him, the bank found out information about him he did not want divulged and they are digging into his past, his life and hope to find out just who Patrick Lloyd is and hope he does not wind up like Gerry Collins. While talking with Andie she chastises him for his indiscretions, does not answer all of his questions and tries to dissuade him from going any further into finding out why a man considered part of the mob, named Tony Martin, is in prison for a crime he might not have committed. This is just the tip of a very slippery iceberg as author James Grippando brings the reader inside the minds of those who think they can defraud the government, create these huge Ponzi schemes, watch as the SEC sits back and lets it happen and hope that the bank will have someone on the inside that will reveal what is really happening outside of its bank vault of walls. When questioning the events that led to Gerry Collins being murdered and Tony Martin’s confession, Patrick begins to realize he just might have come to one dead end but he is definitely not going to stop there. Added in is the fact he cannot go to the police. Why? That I cannot tell you or I would blow the entire case for Andie and endanger Patrick and Lilly. So, a deal is made between them and the end result remains to be seen as Patrick wants his attacker identified and protection for himself and Lilly. Blackmail, not really. Insurance that he will be protected and Andie and the FBI will have him stay on to find out what really happened to the money and where is might be. Someone wrote that treasury memo. The FBI is in the dark about it. What happens will definitely not be what the reader expects. Andie Henning was someone not to be fooled with but Patrick realized the target was Lilly Scanlon at BOS/Singapore. Now, he would have to be transferred there since he worked in New York. Let’s define his role: mole for the FBI. Not a great position to be in. Just who Patrick really is still remains to be revealed. Lilly is thought to be the agent who transferred the two billion dollars between Cushman and Gerry Collins GC Investments in Florida, one of the feeder funds as they are called.

Leaving Lilly in his apartment would set off a chain of events more deadly than he would ever expect. Returning to find her gone, clues left in several places and checking the net he learns where he thinks she might be but what he encounters along the way would cost one person her life, reveal his true identity and enlighten him the what might be behind his attacks. Reverend Manu Robledo is the rector of what he claims is the Church of Peace and Prosperity but seems like a front for something else. But upon closer reflection we learn he is an Argentine connected to South America’s Tri=Border region filled with guns, drugs and terrorists.

Contacting Andie again he relates the events that led to Lilly’s disappearance, discusses their next move and refuses the protection he needed as he finds himself on the end of another attack similar to that of Gerry Collins, winds up in the ER and needs to be rescued before things get even more out of hand.

Finding out his real name and who might be behind the attacks brings Lilly into action as she enlists the help of the only person who might bail out Patrick his sister Connie. As the truth behind their names comes out, what happened to their mother revealed and whom their father is told, both are in danger of being killed by the people their father snitched on. But, are they really behind this or does it have to do with Cushman?

As Patrick and Connie discuss their options many questions come to light, fears arise and decisions have to be made. Involving Andie Henning is next and reflecting his true feelings about Collin’s death with both Andie and Connie bring other family issues present. Just how was his family tied to Cushman and who killed his mother and why?

Replaying the incident that led to her meeting Robledo we learn the truth about who opened account 507.625RR. The author brings to light the truth behind Lilly’s involvement with this man, the threats against her and Patrick and her real involvement in this entire situation. Then the author allows the reader to find out more about Robledo and his real role in all of this and what he hopes to get from Lilly and the smoking gun he is holding against her head. She is tossed in the middle of many situations and where she winds up still remains to be seen. Learning that the SEC knew about this and was made aware we meet a computer nerd or Quant analyst named Evan who explains the rationale behind this Ponzi scheme to Patrick. The explanation and what he learns will definitely make you question whether to trust a financial advisor, what the role of the SEC really is and if you should even put your money in a bank. This novel brings to light many issues that are front and center in the news everyday.

There are many people who are not really what they appear to be. When the truth behind the conspiracy is revealed you will not believe who the players are, who is really behind what is happening to both Patrick and Lilly and the reasons behind it. What part the mob played, who is pulling everyone’s strings and just how in the dark the government is pretending to be.

Patrick and Lilly each have the other one’s records and are set up for a huge fall. What happens that reveals it all you won’t believe and the end result will send chills down your spine. Deceptions lies one man named Mongoose who seems to have all the pieces in place but not where you would want them to fall, as he pays a visit to one Tony Mandretti.

One retired FBI agent would enlighten Andie and the truth behind operation BAQ and who knew what about the fraud and cover up goes way up high and just where you just might believe when you really think about all the twists, turns and threats given to both Lilly and Patrick. The end result is another person’s life and Patrick and Lilly just might be back at square one.

From Miami, to Ciudad del Este to Singapore author James Grippando takes the reader deep inside the corruption of many different agencies where things were happening in plain sight, crimes overlooked and lives taken because money is the most powerful tool sometimes and powerful players will do anything to come out ahead.

When the conspiracy is revealed and you learn what Operation BAQ really means you still won’t believe who was behind it and what the final outcome will be. Lies, deceits, betrayals, government cover ups, high level conspiracies and one man caught in the middle as two young people used as pawns. When the players learn their fate will Andie come out on top or will she be one of the casualties? Who can be trusted? Need you Now: Lilly needed Patrick who needed Andie who needed so many others but this is one novel where everyone’s needs well you decide if they get met or what they deserve. One outstanding novel. One diabolical plot and FIVE MORE STARS FOR THE AUTHOR.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Speaking For The Child reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-13T20:28:00.000-05:00

Speaking For The Child reviewed by Fran Lewis

Book Discussion at Three Eastern with fran lewis 01/18 by Red River Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-12T17:59:00.000-05:00

Book Discussion at Three Eastern with fran lewis 01/18 by Red River Radio | Blog Talk Radio

Dark Mind reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-12T15:41:00.001-05:00

Title: Dark Mind

Author: Jennifer Chase

ISBN: 978098253648

Publisher: JEC Press

The tension mounts from the first page as the humidity rises, the air is thick with acrid smells and the suspect folds when vigilante Detective Rick Lopez penetrates the outer persona of this suspect, leaving no room or margin for error as the life of a nine-year-old child hangs in the balance. Partner Emily Stone watches the interrogation. Standing down until just the right moment when she enters the room, springs a picture of the kidnapped victim on this poor excuse for a human. Dark Mind is a psychological thriller that will take the reader deep inside the mind of child porn slave traders, a serial killer and a peaceful island whose inner most volcanic core will rock equal to that of an active volcano’s eruption.

Two young girls have been kidnapped and the skeletal remains of others found as Rick and Emily fight the smells, the filth, the assailants and the fear that they might not get there in time to save these two young girls. The suspense builds and the quest is on as Rick and Emily race an unknown clock desperately praying they get there in time. No backup, no support from the local police Emily faces her worst fears, as she is attacked and alone without any weapon hoping Rick will sense her danger and come to her rescue.

Sergeant Lani Candena would become embroiled in this case and the others that will now come his way. Cases he would never forget and some that would haunt his dreams forever as author Jennifer Chase brings to light the issues of child pornography, slave trade and sacrificial murder. The graphic descriptions and the use of sensory words describing the scenery and the events taking place adds to the storyline, the sense of urgency and helps bring the reader directly into the story along with the main characters.

Emily and Rick are in Hawaii on the pretense of being on vacation when they get roped into more than they really bargained for. When they uncover the child porn ring, a kidnapper and then become involved in the murder of a photographer of an Internet web magazine, Sergeant Candena becomes suspicious as Emily turns up more often than not at every crime scene. Carolyn Sax is the serial killer’s first victim as he fights the darkness and the fear when grabbed from behind, injected with something and the rest so horrific it would send shockwaves throughout this peaceful island and the killer has only just begun.

Bad dreams and nightmares plague Emily Stone as the author recounts what happened to her when serial killer Leo Brown went after her. Little does she know that he is not done with her and that Rick received an email from him letting him know she was in danger. Black magic, human sacrifices and child porn, author Jennifer Chase takes the reader on many roller coaster rides in this third in the Emily Stone series.

Meet former FBI investigator Jordan Smith who joins Emily and Rick to help find this serial killer who has struck again. As the pieces seem to be falling into place and the body count rises they find themselves embroiled in a case that has the all the earmarks of her past. But, when Emily visits the crime scene where Carolyn’s body was found, Sergeant Lani becomes suspicious and things begin to change. Meeting a stranger during her investigation she is warned that things might take a dangerous turn. Another murder is uncovered and although the mayor does not want Lani involved he catches the case.

But, truths come out and deceits unfold as Lani learns more Emily and her team than she wanted to share. Each time he cases a case she seems to be there and his suspicions prove out as another rapist is caught but the real killer is still at large.

Every step of the way someone seems to be ahead of Emily and strange events happen to stop her cold and the police sergeant seems front and center each time as Rick and Jordan explore other avenues and the same things happen to them. Connections to the police department, corruption you would not believe and a more than one killer to catch. Author Jennifer Chase takes the reader into the world of black magic, sorcery, child porn, murder and the Dark Mind of s serial killer with an ending you just won’t see coming with a final twist that let’s you know that there is much more in store for Emily and Rick. Where the next case leads them only author Jennifer Chase knows and we all hope to find out soon.

Interview with author Larry Sheridan: Join in the discussion

2012-01-12T08:55:00.001-05:00

Welcome author Larry Sheridan. Larry’s outstanding novel Work in Progress has really soared on Amazon and rated one of the best novels written by a new author many times over. Read my interviewer with him, listen to my show from January 10^th at four Eastern, get to know this great author and leave some comments and questions.

Fran Lewis: Interviewer

Why did you decide to write this novel?

I have always enjoyed writing and had tried in the past to start some things but never really focused on them or got what I started finished. This time I had the story in my head and I began feeling that either I wrote it down, getting it out of my thoughts, or it was going to drive me crazy. You see, I try and share the movie playing in my head. That is the way the stories come to me. I watch them and try to write down all the details for the reader. I want the reader to see what I see, feel what I am feeling, tasting what I taste. I also use a lot of inner monologue because I don’t want to tell you what the characters are thinking, I want you to hear their thoughts. The arguments they are having with themselves in their minds. If I can accomplish this then I feel that I have been successful in my efforts.

Summary of the novel

I think your review really got the summary of the story.

How did you develop your main character?

Well, it wasn’t as much that “I” developed “him” because, as I said, I was watching this movie in my mind play out. As I got more and more of him on paper (or, actually in the computer) I saw that there were several things I liked about him. There were also a lot of things I struggled with because I didn’t like them. The characters in “Larry’s World” which is the world I create in my stories, develop in their own way. I guess they sort of develop the way we all do. They face their own challenges and hurdles: at times they are successful and at times they fail. This makes up the way the characters work to come to life.

Where and how did you come up with the storyline?

I’m not really sure how it happens. I will get an idea and it begins to unfurl in my thoughts. Kind of like I am watching a huge tapestry caught in the wind, the length of it billowing out. Once the wind stretches the tapestry out it changes, turning from the tapestry into a film that I watch as it plays out in my thoughts. I keep replaying this movie while I am working on putting the details of it onto paper.

What does Jeremy think happened to him and how does he wind up in the hospital? I think Jeremy is still trying to figure out what happened to him at the end of the book. Now, he is in the hospital two different times. The first time he is trying to figure out if what he remembers is from some kind of twisted dream and the second time he is trying to reconcile the acts he has committed, almost as a denial to who he believed he actually was before all of these events began happening to him.

Why and how does his wife Cassie become involved?

We, the readers, are left to decide whether we believe she has always had some involvement in all this or if that is just too farfetched to accept. I wanted to leave that part open and come back to it in a future story line. Not sure if it will be in the second book but I kind of doubt it. It is an issue that will be addressed at some point along the way though. I think it is important, I’m just not ready myself to make that decision.

Who is Tish and what is her function? Tish is the dream employee or assistant who seems too good to be true. You know the old saying, right? If something seems too good to be true it usually is. Well, Tish fits that statement well. It is a statement that I think speaks volumes. All Tish is doing is personifying the cliché.

Why does she appear to be the perfect assistant? She frees Jeremy up to focus on the areas of his work he is good at and takes care of those areas he is weak in. This, in my opinion, is the perfect assistant. It is that person who understands your nuances and takes the jobs off of you which slow you down. The jobs you are encumbered with and by. When this is done, efficiencies occur and success can be more easily obtained.

How does she pretend to be invaluable and what is her motive? I don’t think she is actually pretending to be invaluable to Jeremy. I think that over the past few years she has proven her worth to him and he has become so dependent upon her that she is able to manipulate him. In a way Jeremy has become her puppet and she has become his puppeteer. Just because she has other plans and ulterior motives doesn’t mean she is not invaluable to him. I wanted to bring in real life situations and I think the people we rely on the most, the one’s we’ve given the majority of our trust to are the ones who can cause the most damage. In one sense this is a form of humanity’s fatal flaw.

What presentation is Jeremy making and for what reason? He has become a very high stakes advisor. Though this is a larger pool he is presenting to it is not totally out of the ordinary for him to make this presentation. The room represents his battlefield, or what he knew to be his battlefield though that does change later in the story. The reason he is making the presentation is that this is part of his normal course of business. I wanted to show the reader that Jeremy was good at what he does and instead of telling you, the reader, that I made the conscious decision to offer a glimpse into his knowledge.

How does he know that he needs to switch gears in order to keep the interest of those he’s presenting his information to? Because when you are as successful and good at what you do as Jeremy Jackson is then you read the body language of the room. You feel the thoughts surrounding you and you respond to them. It becomes more of an art form than it is an actual presentation.

What are his major strong points?

I think that he, like a lot of us, has some qualities which are rough or difficult to see. My goal with him is to show him as seemingly very polished and finished, like a fine diamond of sorts. Then, as we progress through the story we question certain things about him. You know, is he really as polished as we thought he was? Is he as successful as we thought he was, or as he himself thought he was? And I want to take some of those qualities and scuff them up a bit. Often times, we as individuals try to show the world our finished “self” – kind of like when we tell our kids to be on their best behavior. But, as someone gets to know us better, we let them into the various inner worlds of ours and they see not only our beauty marks but also our warts too. I think we are all like that in one way or another. But, with Jeremy Jackson, I think his best qualities are that he has a lot of integrity, is a very hard worker, loves his family and is faithful to them.

How do things change when he gets to know John?

John is the no-nonsense character in the story. He is who you see. Sometimes he is scary and sometimes he seems almost kind but we never really know. I like that about John. He is warm and friendly but if you cross him he can take your head off and just might do it. Jeremy finds there are many things in his own life he has no control of anymore and so has to play someone else’s game. This is challenging for Jeremy, especially when you think about where he starts the story from.

What is John’s real story and how does he fit into the events that occur? John is someone you are still trying to figure out…maybe even decide if you like him or not…at the end of the story. John’s character is still being developed in the second installment and you won’t really “get” him until book #3 I think. I like the options with John and feel there are a lot of them, so I’m having fun playing around with him.

Who is this women he meets and how does she get Jeremy to take the wrong meds? Well, she is an attractive woman but the drugs Jeremy is subjected to make everything more intense for him and that is how she gets him off balance. She slipped him something on the plane and then, due to his sleeping, she is able to change his medication. He doesn’t even realize they’ve done this. I know how easy this is to do, as far as get things mixed up. I am ADD and so I take my medication every day. Sometimes I’m not sure if I have taken it and sometimes I can even get confused about the meds I am taking. I think, with the addition of the drugs, this is not a really big stretch to accomplish.

What is the end result when he realizes who and what she is and has done?

Well, once he realizes what she has done to him, with the video and the other women, his world is destroyed and he has very little to live for. This may be a scene which seems a bit melodramatic but I believe when we have our perception of reality ripped away from us it can be and often times is extremely painful.

What happens to his family and why does Cassie appear to be working for the wrong side? Well, as far as this story goes his family becomes the leverage they (the bad guys) feel they have over him. I am still developing whether or not Cassie is on the other side or if they have something on her to make her go along with them. Its an additional way to sort of string Jeremy along.

Why does he want to fire Tish and why can’t he? Once he realizes she has taken control of his business and is setting up a huge money laundering scheme he wants to fire her. The problem for him is that he is looking like it is him that has set the whole deal up and Tish has positioned herself as innocent. She is in the perfect role of his “trusted” assistant while able to really make him look like he is blatantly breaking all of the rules. She has done trades for him without his knowledge but since he has final control he will be responsible for not knowing what she was up to. In this business, though Tish works for him there are many levels of oversight and he can’t just fire her. He has to follow various procedures and protocol to address the issues relating to her. By the time he does it is too late and his career is probably over even if he manages to stay alive and out of jail.

What part does Ross play and why do they want him to take the money and keep quiet? Ross plays both sides of the fence. He is undercover where he is working for the group that Tish is going after. His original loyalties are with John Stephens so Ross has a lot of complexities surrounding him.

What is the company? It is an agency within the US Government. It is much more clandestine than the CIA and very few people in power even know about it. This group has been around for a very long time, has secrets on everyone thus insuring they will continue to be around for a very long time.

Will you bring Jeremy back again? Yes. Absolutely. Jeremy is central to this series.

What is his fate? I don’t know yet. He is just know becoming A Work in Progress.

Why did you decide to become an author and write a murder/mystery? There are some days I ask myself the same question! Just kidding…kind of. I enjoy writing and I enjoy telling a good story. They just fell into place for me. There weren’t a lot of options, really. I knew no one would be interested in an autobiography so that was out of the question and the story was in my mind so it just made sense.

How do you promote your work and how are sales for your book? A lot of word of mouth, I have a blog where I try and write something every 4 – 6 weeks and build up a following there, Twitter, Facebook, blog interviews and radio shows, and book signings. If there is anything else you can think of please let me know. Sales have been good at times and slow at times. It seems that they have been fairly steady. People who have started some businesses using the internet to get interest have told me my numbers are great but I would obviously like them to be a lot better. At one point my book had reached #5 in the Top Rated Murder/Mystery category as well as Action/Adventure on Amazon. Then, for whatever reason, amazon began deleting several of my best reviews and now I am back in the 30’s or 40’s.

What is you next project? I just finished up a collection of short stories called Five of Five a collection of five short stories for the Kindle and am about to release Five of Five a collection of five short stories plus a couple extra which will be released on Kindle, print and on Smashwords. I am working on the next book in the series which will begin with the same event as A Work in Progress did so that will be cool to finish. I got about 35% through then realized I didn’t like where it was going so I am reworking it.

What other things have you written? As I mentioned before, the collection of short stories and lots of checks!!

What about your short stories? Yes – they are fun to write because you get to change them around and have a lot more variety. I enjoyed them as they were a bit of a challenge because you have to tighten everything up and can’t go into a lot of detail. That is actually what I enjoy about the novel, the amount of detail I can work with.

Where do you see you career going? I don’t know. Right now I am enjoying what I am doing and if the road I’m on takes me someplace else then so be it.

What are your websites?

www.larrysheridan.com

Twitter - @AboutmybooksLS

Blog: http://larrysheridan.blogspot.com/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4480952.Larry_Sheridan

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Work-in-Progress/225449777471634#!/pages/A-Work-in-Progress/225449777471634

Purchase Links:

Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/105741

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Work-Progress-Larry-Sheridan/dp/1463653786/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1324193542&sr=8-2

My Enemy My Friend reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-11T10:36:00.000-05:00

My Enemy My Friend reviewed by Fran Lewis

Special Edition Of Book Discussion with Fran Lewis 01/10 by Red River Radio | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-10T15:35:00.000-05:00

Special Edition Of Book Discussion with Fran Lewis 01/10 by Red River Radio | Blog Talk Radio

Legends of the Lake reviewed by fran lewis

2012-01-09T17:57:00.001-05:00

Legends of the Lake

Author: Philip Nork

Reviewed By Fran Lewis

Everything has a beginning. Traditions, places, businesses and even your life have a beginning. Philip Nork’s family had many different beginnings and traditions that he wants to share with readers. Why not share his family’s experiences, happy times and sad ones with readers in a unique book titled Legends of the Lake? Legends of the Lake begin with how and why his great grandfather bought the land he built his cottage and businesses on in Wisconsin. As you take the ride back in time to the beginning of the 20^th century when his family created their own form of history, picture a remote area with a small lake. Picture yourself driving through green pastures, cows mooing, farms, the area smells from freshly cut grass, the sky is blue and the roads might not be perfectly paved but filled with gravel and welcome to Wisconsin. Meet Salvatore his great grandfather’s friend who own the butcher shop 20 miles west of Chicago. Meet Gramps who was truly amazing. Of Bohemian descent, uniform maker and great husband to Connie. Join Sal and Eddie has they travel the many roads and highways to Wisconsin, describing the scenery along the way and how Eddie began construction on his “summer palace.” As you read Chapter One the author describes the land, the landscape and you begin to visualize this special place. Close your eyes: Can you see the cottage? Do you smell the fresh air? In 1910 when this story takes place their life began with Eddie owning a Model T which he bought five years later and set up the five year rule. What is that? The five year rule was to purchase a new car for the family every five years and the car of choice my dad’s favorite the Cadillac.

From the start this was a family venture. His three daughters and wife handled the cooking and the food. He handled the tailor shop and his bait and boat rentals and the rest. Going along with friend to the other side of the island they would meet some really mean turtles. Just what happened and how the lake came to be called: Snapping Turtle Lake you need to read for yourself to appreciate what happened. If I tell you it would ruin the fun and the smile on your face after reading what they did.

The community flourished and more people built cottages, opened businesses and then Johnnie with Eddie’s guidance and suggestions created more business for his restaurant by turning it into a bar. When Eddie saw someone with huge rocks or boulders he relieved him of some of them and even created a sign letting the world know the Kron’s were there. In order to make sure his three daughters did not wander off too far he bought a huge bell and what he did with that well you need it hear the ring for yourself or you might be late for dinner and Connie does have strict rules about being on time. What would make it better? How about an old-fashioned food fest!

Life does not always stay the same and things did change as Prohibition took its toll on the bar, another merchant came to live there and things changed as they built a playhouse, speakeasy and just who funded the money: I am not going to tell you but let’s just say the guy who lived there was named Al and he left his trademark in a cottage that Eddie’s daughter and friend Willy found. The rest is history. The girls married and believe it or not Connie now had a son and things changed for all of them for the better. Imagine another first as one of the storeowners created a plastic container and the rest is Tupperware history. His family really had fun and the stories are refreshing and entertaining. I think the part that really hits home is having to wait your turn to use the bathroom and one girl named Jean who just wanted to find her way and be alone. This book brings back so many memories for anyone growing up with a huge and loving family.

Then things changed and believe it or not what changed it was the Hamburger and the bun. Deciding to create their own buns, hamburgers and with the help of one man named Ray, Sal and Willy became quite wealthy in the hamburger business or was it a famous chain they invented. According to our author you just never know. There were tons of firsts in this family.

Things changed and one friend passed away and his son took over the business and the renting of cottages. Eddie and Connie were getting older and Joan and Felix got married and along came our special author named Phil. Growing up and being the center of his grandfather’s attention was great as he learned to love wrestling on television and listen to music. His mother started her own traditions as things at the cottage changed but traditions carried on.

As Phil gets to know his family as a young child, join in their fishing expeditions, learn more about their traditions he comes face to face with a word that kids should never hear: divorce. He learns the meaning of the different colored roses from his Nana and she explains what would make him stand out when he gets older. New friendships formed, family still came to the cottages and Phil learned a lot about life. One little girl named Matty would change his perspective about girls. Baseball was what he was interested in and talking about other things although somewhat interesting not really his speed. Friendships changed on one girl’s life would shatter and Phil would be there to help her. Learning the truth about his father and handling it made him even more mature. Then, Nana dies and he lost her and his close friendship with Matty.

Life changed and he moved on to get to know his father. The rest of the stories you need to read for yourself. Learn what happens after his loses another member of his family and where he winds up. An ending that requires a box of tissues and maybe more and stories that will bring back memories of your own childhood. Once again author Phil Nork takes the reader on a journey back in time to where things were simple, kids learned to have some great fun outside, families knew the real meaning of love and friendship and one young man finds his way.

This book gets Five Special Roses:

One Red: for the love you have for your family

One Yellow for the friendships you made along the way

One white: for the remembrances that will remain in your heart and mind

Two Pink: to give thanks for all that you had and still have in your life.

One great book. Many wonderful stories.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

P.S, If it makes you happy it's fine with me: As you Nana would say: This book is more than fine with me. Fran

Legends of the Lake reviewed by fran lewis

2012-01-09T17:43:00.000-05:00

Legends of the Lake reviewed by fran lewis

You're Never Alone reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-09T03:30:00.000-05:00

You’re Never Alone

Author: Philip Nork

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Journeys in life take us on many paths and traveling down numerous paths. Some paths more rocky than others while others lead the traveler to forks in the road where decisions need to be made and the direction to proceed carefully assessed before choosing the one to follow. You’re Never Alone: simple statement yet complicated and profound in its meaning. Each person we meet in life can impact our vision of ourselves, the way we reflect on who were are or our understanding of how others see or perceive us. Life will send you many curve balls and not everything will turn out in a perfect or positive way. The results will definitely vary according to the individual situations. As you read each of the stories in this book, meet each person in each chapter you will understand how actions, words and simple kindnesses can change the way a person sees, views and responds to you.

Author Philip Nork begins by relating to the reader the impact on his life when his father left home and his mother needed to create a life for herself and her three children. Instead of crawling into a deep dark shell she became his champion. Divorce hurts children in their own way. Some even blame themselves for their parent’s failures or when one leaves. Often others strike out at the remaining parent. Philip was blessed. He had a grandmother who truly understood him, taught him some valuable lessons in life that he has carried on through adulthood. Teaching him how to accept the world, as it is, being sensitive to others and showing others simple kindnesses, would get him through life and the hard times too. As she stated,”Treatin people with the respect they deserve is the best way to get into heaven.” Religion played and still does a heavy part in his life. I love what she taught him when she explained that he would meet many people in his life and that being different, sincere and making the other person feel special, especially girls were important. Where is his grandma today to teach that lesson to the young men today? Losing her changes his life and made him question his belief and faith in God.

Let’s meet the different people in each chapter that impacted his life, changed his directions and helped him to become the caring, sensitive and kind man he is today. You’re Never Alone: if you allow people into your life.

Let’s meet Jenna a young girl our author met in the first grade and whose friendship she still holds dear today as he shares his memories form the past even thought their paths have not crossed fro a long time. Jenna was pretty, popular and kind. Inviting him to her birthday party cemented their friendship. Phil loved to sing and his favorite song was and still is Up Up and Away, which he sang to Jenna at her party and at other times. To celebrate her birthday she had each on her friends choose a partner and take their balloons, tie them together and let them go up into the sky sending with their balloons hope that their wishes would come true. When she moved things changed but a change encounter in the 6^th grade and another in High School would create a friendship that would stay with him forever. One small gesture can leave a positive or negative result on another person. He can still hear his Nana’s voice saying: “Treatin girls special- being different.”
There many people that he meets a long the way and that he tells the reader about as he takes his journey through life. But, I am going to choose just a few and the rest you need to meet on your own by taking the journey along with this reader and with Phil back in time to where it all began.

Nancie, Lisa, Sally and Julie D. come into his life. All four girls were different. All four girls having the same goals. Each seeking a lasting friendship, acceptance and wanting to be treated with respect. His parent’s divorce played heavily on him and yet his concern for others never changed. Phil kept his inner most fears and personal live within himself. Certain things he did not share with his friends. Bowling, Scouts, Little League and group activities were suppose to help foster and build his self-confidence and esteem. But, he still felt isolated, alone and filled his world with books, music and trying to understand his feelings and emotions playing havoc with him.

Chuck and Janet came into his life next. Chuck was the typical all American and his girlfriend Janet just really pretty and sweet. Chuck and Phil were never to be friends and when Phil shows him the right way to bob an apple well you figure out the rest as Chuck learns a lesson he just might never forget. Appearances can often be deceiving.

At the end of each chapter or story the author adds a lesson learned and reminds the reader of those he learned in the previous stories. Fitting in with others his own age and being able to understand his shortcomings and that of others is the true message related in this book. Physical attributes should not be what people focus their attention on when deciding to be your friend. This is difficult for any adolescent to handle. Do you often wonder what would happen if everyone in the world got along, was polite and actually said good morning?

Let’s continue with our journey but not before reminding the reader of the strong relationship he had with her Nana and that losing her changed his life. Her lessons remained with him so that responding to the needs, wishes and feelings of these he met helped him create lifelong friendships and through difficult times. Teaching Phil to accept himself for who he was and is was a really strong lesson and the fact it stayed with him a testament to her memory.

An illness would bring his Nana into his mind and he would once again hear her voice, the lessons she taught him and the importance of caring for others. Hearing her voice would renew his faith in God and give him the strength to keep going.

Author Phil Nork presents a heartwarming, heartfelt, and straight from the heart story of his life. Caring, always putting the feelings of others first he travels life’s highway in his own unique way.

Girls played a strong part in his life as each chapter or story centers around a different one. Each enters his life, teaching him an important lesson helping to enlighten his way and strengthen his path. As I have said before this book would make a great handbook for young people to read and learn how to embrace and deal with their differences.

With the help of a friend he reinvented his style in the seventh grade but the outcome and reaction of his classmates was not what he expected. Yet, the final outcome might surprise the reader. Imagine what happens when he meets Barbara and Claire and decides to be in a school play. Things begin to change for him as he realizes his hidden talents.

Confidence is hard and when he tries out for the basketball team he realizes that some things will never change.

Friendships are important and losing a friend that helped him get through hard times really sent him back to where he was for a while. But, playing goalie on the soccer team would draw the girls towards him and help boost his self- confidence.

Phil grew in more ways than one when he met Lisa who helped him get over going on his first real date. But, some relationships are met to remain as they were before and along with his friend Billy he decided to ask Mary out. Billy and Mary did not seem like a perfect fit and what Mary would teach him just might change his life and the way he looked at himself. Mary would start the ball rolling but when she moved away it left him empty and feeling alone again until he began working at the Burger Shack with Joyce. Joyce was an amazing manager and had a group of friends that enjoyed skating at the Pink Rink. These ladies were lesbians and Phil was readily accepted by them and taken under their special protective wing. Makeover, clothes shopping and teaching him to accept himself for who and what he is was a great gift taught by these girls and especially Joyce. During the day he was introverted Phil and at night he was with Joyce and her friends a totally different person. But, Phil was losing sight of himself and one thing that Lisa said should have been heard loud and clear: start thinking about what you truly want and need? What would Nana expect of him? What would this life of experiencing different women and different intimacy’s due to the kind, caring and understand man he was supposed to become? What about Phil? Why just focus on the needs of women? Why not his needs too? Would that be considered selfish? From the time he photographed the cheerleaders and began to hear the voices of others Phil really grew in more ways than one. What I really loved was when he presented each girl with those special roses. Yellow for friendship, white for respect, red means you love that person and they really rock your world and of course when losing a friend: Purple. Roses are special. My Dad would give my mom one long stem red rose for every special occasion or just because he loved her. Roses hold a special place in my heart as I had one long stem rose engraved on my mom’s stone when she passed away in March.

Phil had many relationships that were positive and some negative trying to never lose sight of himself or the needs of others. Many different girls came into his life and some used him for their own gratification and purposes. Some friendships would remain while others would fade. But, when Phil closes his eyes as he is listening to Rod Stewart, he hears his Nana’s voice reminding him of the lessons that he has learned and what life still holds for him. The story ends when Phil reaches age 18 but his life has just begun and his the choices he makes on the road to self-discovery are still unknown. Coming full circle with many issues teens and young people face today, author Phil Nork really gives readers much pause for thought and teens many important life lessons what he lists on pages 251-252 that you can read for yourself and apply to your own life. Hear his voice and the voices of the many girls he meets. Take this journey and you definitely won’t be disappointed.

I never give stars when rating a book:

I give this book FIVE YELLOW ROSES SYMBOLIZING FRIENDSHIP and one more just from me. I would be honored to be your friend.

Fran Lewis Reviewer

I saved these from last time. Let’s give you five white roses too.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

Speak For The Child reviewed by Fran Lewis

2012-01-08T15:05:00.000-05:00

Speak For The Child reviewed by Fran Lewis

The Quaker State Affair

2012-01-06T16:43:00.002-05:00

The Quaker State Affair

Author Dan Romain

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

One lone technician on loan from the University of California working in a facility in Los Alamos is about to pull off a daring feat right under the eyes of the man in charge of the facility and many others. Computers down again. Work halted and the end result everyone was sent home until this one technician can fix the problem. The parking lots at this facility had very few cars. Children were sent home early from school and the changing winds caused numerous forest fires and the population living there was told to stay indoors. Just why and how this will come into play you just won’t believe as this one technician, right in front of the eyes of the guard on duty, and with his assistance pulls of creating a duplicate disc with encrypted information with nuclear weapon targeting protocols. But, there is much more. This technician was never to be seen again. Let’s go forward and maybe I can clarify some of this for you.

Washington, D.C. and the Secretary of Defense have been called to a meeting along with many others to the National Reconnaissance Office Headquarters. Entering with Special Agent Connie Barlow what they see and learn will send shockwaves throughout the world and definitely a message to all Americans.

As the events unfolded and the situation became clearer what the Secretary of Defense sees and learns from the Director of the NRO and his staff will shake the world. One reporter standing against a smoke filled background trying to report the events as she learns them. One oil refinery has exploded. Seventy-five gallons of gasoline produced there within a 24 -hour period. CIA intelligence reported that satellites are monitored in space. But, what they see on the screen is much different. One Chinese Ying 1 satellite just what did it do? One strong message to the world. This particular satellite emitted an energy pulse. This particular energy pulse passed right over the facility and its target. That thing was not was a weapon. What they said it was something connected with information technology warfare. Stating that these impulses set off a chain reaction of “the refinery’s mixing stations,” causing the blast. But, that was and is not the message. The message is in when this blast occurred: The time it blew up: 911. You can figure out what that means. Imagine if the Chinese decided to blow up a refinery in Taiwan. It started out at 900 and remained there for 11 minutes. The explosion happening precisely at 911 our time. A strong message from the Chinese: Dare you to intercede or interfere. You figure out the rest.

When the situation is explained the players realize that there is much more to this than they realize. The Quaker State Project is what this event is really about and the underlying ramifications to what this project unleashes and can unleash is frightening. Imagine being able to send an energy impulse towards and object and not only destroy it but anything electrical in its wake. What would happen if all of our cars did not work, buses not operational, no more lights or electricity, power plants in jeopardy, nuclear plants in danger of emitting radiation and life, as we know it would no longer exist? Imagine going back to square one or even before colonial times. What would happen to the world and what is the primary purpose behind all of this?

One man named Patrick Mc Daniels just might have the answers. Nobel Prize Winner, nuclear physicist who ran the program gave it the name Quaker State but who left under not such great circumstances. Would they be able to convince him to help? What would the forensic report show? The team being sent was told to remain totally under the radar- unseen or really not there. What will the President say when the Secretary of Defense fills him in? This is one novel that will definitely give the reader more than must a little pause for thought. As I continue my review of The Quaker State Affair one novel that you won’t be able to put down until you find out where and when the last bang or explosion will take place.

Those that have been to Pennsylvania Dutch country know that the Amish live a much more basic and different life than we do. No electricity, computers, technology, no lights, cars or any form of running water the Quakers, Amish and Mennonites would definitely be able to survive his type of holocaust. Therefore, the reason behind naming it the Quaker State Project. But, there is still much more to learn and much more to come.

The reader gets to know more about Patrick McDaniels his relationship with one Professor and his beliefs regarding China his thoughts for its future. As he expresses what might really be happening the President and his staff are planning for something else. What would happen if we returned one big explosion with another? What would happen if in order to teach China a lesson and in the name of preserving our environment we blew up one of our own satellites? Would that send the message we want? Let’s not forget our IT Technician who is not out of the picture as yet but does have the original disc. Is he done yet?

As Benjamin and McDaniels commiserate on his boat something happens to change everything and his perspective on not wanting anything to do with what happened in China. Agent Barlow with a shove from Benjamin convinces him to become involved and hopefully find a solution. Conducting revolutionary energy research and not wanting anyone to be aware of it and being sent away by the government and his help or silence paid in gold. Just how valuable is this man and whom can he really trust?

As the plot thickens and it does we learn about the connection between energy and Salt and how salt was valuable to preserve fish, meats and other foods until electricity came about. Hence, let’s remember the Amish.

The end result is that the forensic team found nuclear material along with electronic parts that could be used to make bombs. As the President speaks to the nation and the world it is apparent that someone other than the United States planted that bomb in Taiwan and that whichever group is behind it there is much more to this than has been revealed. If you take this from the actual headlines and read what really did happen you would know that computer discs were reported missing in June of 2000 in an article in the times and in March of 2008 the Times reported what we learned in the prologue of this book. Chilling to say the least but true. Let’s just say by the time Mac hears what they have from the sources provided what they thought they had or saw was not exactly what everyone expected as he reveals the chilling truth. Could the whole thing have been a theatrical presentation orchestrated by the Chinese themselves? But the message we sent to the Chinese would come through loud and clear and now the games begin and who wins and loses still remains to be seen.

But, China rebounds back and has decided to no longer support the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency. What will happen to our economy and what will happen if our paper currency is not worth the paper it is printed on? What happens between China and America plus what kind of a game is the President playing and what happened when Mac found out? You won’t believe the startling revelations, the deceits, lies and even more the bone chilling results as two countries play a dangerous game equal to that of Russian Roulette. What happens when China pulls out of IMF? Just wait and see!

Wait until you hear what the United States has in store to counteract the Chinese. What would happen if we decided to go to a gold standard? How the plan is outlined, what it would mean and how the Federal Reserve would survive you need to read for yourself.

From Social Security to retirement plans to the price of oil, everything will be affected but it’s how you just won’t believe.

As several officials disappear, one young man receives a disc, the President of China speaks you won’t believe what happens and the end result you won’t believe. What happens when there is no Internet, phones, gas, food supplies and not banks? What happens when China executes her plan? This is one ending and one novel you won’t want to miss. When countries are brought down and one financial Empire loses everything will one man do something to safe the United States? Read The Quaker State Affair and find out for yourself.

Characters that are right out of today’s headlines and actual headlines many people probably did not really think about. What would happen if this story came true? What is next for the United States? Will this author bring Mac back? One outstanding novel. One thought provoking novel. 911: that’s when it all began. America needs to stay alert. This is one book what will definitely give everyone a big wake up call.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Charlie: A Love Story

2012-01-04T14:06:00.000-05:00

Charlie: A Love Story

Rich Tips for a Lifetime

2012-01-04T11:44:00.000-05:00

Rich Tips for a Lifetime

Read about Bertha and Tillie

2012-01-04T06:52:00.001-05:00

http://kptoz.blogspot.com/2012/01/author-spotlight-fran-lewis.html

THE MEANING OF TRUE FRIENDSHIP

2012-01-02T11:57:00.000-05:00

THE MEANING OF TRUE FRIENDSHIP