Blog Archives
A Touch of Quirkiness
In The Meeting Place, a community fights for survival following an environmental disaster and a devastating public health crisis that tears three friends apart. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The context of the story – an environmental crisis and a pandemic -are what we already live with a slight increase in factors that could possibly happen over the next few years or decade. I have always had a fear of mass round-ups and I wanted to explore the hypothetical situation of adding in a round-up of community members in the Northern Rivers, within the backdrop of devastating drought.
I chose to look at this scenario from the point of view of 3 different characters each landing in different places and with their unique strengths and weaknesses that would come to play in their survival. The three characters could be said to represent different parts of myself but also different parts of our community.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I was compelled to write this story. It would nag and nag at me to be written until I committed to it and even then it took several years. I had no ideas beyond the initial hypothetical and the three characters. The rest of the story only emerged as I put pen to paper, with my left hand. That said the dark tone with a touch of quirkiness was somewhat intentional, as well as a slight exaggeration to characters and the context as well. Stretching truths a bit, I saw it in my mind as a film and that is how it revealed itself to me, frame by frame. To tell you the truth it was quite a gruelling, challenging writing process. I would become so frustrated about the lack of knowing where the story was going. I had to learn to be patient and to trust that when I picked up the pen the words would appear, voila!, just like that.
The style of the book is quite choppy, the way our thoughts and flashes of memories of disaster times can be. Some people would probably like more backstory about the baddies but that part of the story was not available to me, or perhaps that just does not interest me that much. Who does it and why… not as interesting as how the community survives and stands up eventually and overcomes.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am working on the sequel now.
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With the pulse of a thriller, The Meeting Place is a dystopian place-based novel about ordinary people confronted by extreme circumstances.
Town and Country: Voices from the Mid-Ohio Valley
Town and Country: Voices from the Mid-Ohio Valley, by Carl Parsons, is a collection of short stories divided into two parts, each offering a glimpse into the lives of small-town and rural characters. The book delves into the experiences, regrets, and sometimes peculiar situations that define life in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Parsons brings to life a world filled with nostalgia, longing, and an ever-present connection to place, capturing the essence of this region through a cast of vividly drawn characters.
Right away, Parsons’ knack for setting the scene stands out. The details pull you in. The first story, “Regrets,” hits hard with a wave of melancholy. The main character returns to his hometown, and the changes he sees stir up deep emotions. The descriptions and streets once familiar have now been altered by time—strike a chord. They spark a bittersweet sense of longing. His journey through old memories are heartbreaking and real. Small moments, like feeding his cats or driving past old spots, anchor the story in a way that feels personal and true. At times, the writing takes its time, allowing the reader to fully immerse in the scene. In “Hot Date,” the banter between the poker buddies is a perfect example. The dialogue is realistic, capturing the easy flow of conversation among friends. While the exchanges linger, they effectively portray the laid-back pace of small-town life. Parsons skillfully uses these moments to create a vivid sense of place, grounding the reader in the leisurely rhythm of everyday life. Themes of love, regret, loss, and time are timeless but Parsons gives them fresh life. “Judith and Phillip” is a standout. The story explores young love and its inevitable heartbreak. The innocence of their relationship shines through. Their separation feels gut-wrenching. Parsons doesn’t sugarcoat reality. Things fall apart, and the pain lingers. This story, like others in the collection, taps into emotions we all recognize. But it does so with a voice that feels distinctly Mid-Ohio Valley.
Town and Country is a reflective, thoughtful collection. It resonates with anyone who feels a deep connection to a place, whether with love or a sense of being stuck. This book is for those who enjoy literary fiction. It’s for readers who appreciate character-driven stories and settings that come alive. If you’re drawn to tales of small-town America, full of complexity and heart, Carl Parsons’ work is well worth exploring.
Pages: 181 | ASIN : B0DBH3RZDT
A Call To Action
Like a Lily Among the Thorns follows a young woman longing for a family connection who meets a woman who becomes more than a friend; she helps transform her life. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
To me subconsciously, we all assign roles to acquaintances in our lives based on our unfulfilled needs. In this particular narrative, the MC has a real need for connection. Sometimes my muse uses my personal experiences but in others like this story my natural empathy for people in distress carries the load.
What are some things that you find interesting about the human condition that you think make for great fiction?
The pursuit of happiness, connection, and dignity.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
One main theme the reviewer failed to mention was the purpose of this book for me. I believe it is a call to action for the climate crisis that may possibly end life on this planet as we know it. Just like the characters in this story, the awareness of the danger is slow in forming and even at the end of this novel the lack of action to totally change one’s life in anticipation of this problem is just too much work. Eveyone hopes the problem is exaggerated and will just disappear. Like is actually happening right now.
What next book are you working on, and when will it be available?
My next novel explores the notion of what is reality. Can we move through different realities by choice? Scientists have postulated that the multiverse exists. In this work, I take the liberty of having proof that multiverse exists and that we can somehow move around these alternate worlds at will. It also is a nod to my gloomy attitude of the possible demise of humanity due to climate change. Enlightened souls will have the ability to save our species by traveling to another reality where climate issues do not exist yet.
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At a local small library in New York City, one such family was born. And just like so many capricious happenstances in life, this family unit embraced newcomers and grew exponentially. But this clan was also charged with far more than spreading love and joy and a sense of belonging. This clan was formed by divine Providence to help save the planet.
Gabrielle Bernstein, the MC of Like a Lily Among the Thorns, is a woman in her twenties and has started her career as a librarian at a NYC public library. Abandoned by her father as a young girl and now orphaned by her deranged mother, Gabby longs for a family connection. Coincidentally, she finds this connection at the same time she inherits a B&B in Vermont from her estranged and now-deceased father. This enchanted inn is under the watchful eye of goddesses of myth and legend who have been tasked to save mankind from destroying itself and this planet. These goddesses will use their powers to try and stall the onslaught of the effects of droughts, floods, and rising temperatures. But as a safety net, they have collected human saviors all over the planet to erect safe havens at high altitudes away from flood waters and blistering temperatures.
Woven through this tale is Gabrielle’s inherent understanding that she must be grateful, mindful, and present in this journey called life.
Author’s note: In response to the feedback from several reviews, I offer some clarity to the book’s ending. As a call to action, the other message of this book is the reality that humans would prefer to do nothing when all appears normal. Doing nothing and waiting for the worst to happen is a terrible approach and has been the mindset for a long time no matter the solid info that has been available for many years.
Like a Lily Among the Thorns
Karen S. Bell’s Like a Lily Among the Thorns mixes romance, personal growth, and a touch of magic. The story revolves around Gabby Bernstein, a young woman in New York City who clings to optimism despite life’s tough breaks. Things take a sharp turn when she crosses paths with the mysterious Countess Anastasia Ivanova. Their friendship opens new doors for Gabby, pushing her toward a life-changing transformation.
Bell’s writing style is poetic, vivid, and full of detail, making every scene pop. Whether it’s Gabby’s simple morning routine or the lush garden of the Countess, the words pull you in. You can almost see and feel everything through Gabby’s eyes. The way Bell blends everyday life with a dash of the mystical gives the story a unique, almost magical vibe. Gabby’s constant reflections, while key to her character, add depth to the story. They offer insight into her mindset and her journey. These moments allow readers to connect more deeply with her. Her focus on gratitude and mindfulness is central and enriches the narrative. While these reflections do slow the pace a bit, they also create a thoughtful, introspective atmosphere that adds to the story’s charm. The bond between Gabby and the Countess is where the magic really happens. Watching them grow and heal together is both moving and inspiring. As the Countess reveals more of herself, her role as a mentor to Gabby becomes more compelling. There’s a scene where Gabby finally faces her painful past that hits hard. It’s raw and emotional, showing just how good Bell is at capturing real, deep feelings.
Like a Lily Among the Thorns is a solid pick for readers who enjoy stories that focus on characters, with a sprinkle of magic. The book’s poetic language and thoughtful narrative dig deep into life’s ups and downs and the path to personal growth. This book is the perfect mix of the ordinary with a little bit of magic.
Pages: 231 | ASIN : B09V5KGMJF
Road to Elysium
Kay A. Oliver’s novel, Road to Elysium, introduces us to Ken, a man engulfed in grief after a tragic accident takes the lives of his wife and son. Once fulfilling, Ken’s work becomes a hollow echo of his former vibrant life. His world is shaken by a violent encounter with young robbers, a pivotal moment that forces him to reconnect with the outside world and recognize the hardships faced by the less fortunate. Through this confrontation, Ken meets Mykel, a resilient teenager raised by a single parent. Observing Mykel’s need for a positive male role model, Ken steps in, providing the guidance and stability the young boy desperately needs.
Oliver skillfully navigates the intricate landscape of grief and the nuanced journey of healing. Ken’s path is neither straightforward nor without setbacks, yet his empathy extends beyond Mykel. He galvanizes the neighborhood youth, forming a football team that serves as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change. Through mentorship and philanthropy, Ken rediscovers a sense of purpose, illustrating the profound impact of human connection.
The novel beautifully intertwines a burgeoning romance between Ken and Adelle, a captivating colleague with her own past wounds. Their relationship, rooted in shared experiences of loss, provides mutual solace and support. Oliver’s portrayal of grief is raw and sensitive, allowing readers to connect deeply with Ken’s vulnerability and root for his emotional recovery. The story subtly highlights the struggles of underprivileged youth, prompting reflection and empathy. Ken’s transformation and Mykel’s journey of self-discovery are both uplifting and inspiring.
Road to Elysium is a compelling read for those seeking a heartwarming narrative that delves into themes of grief, resilience, and the transformative power of love and community. With its richly developed characters and engaging storyline, the novel offers a captivating escape and a hopeful message. Fans of contemporary fiction with a touch of social commentary will find themselves thoroughly engrossed in this emotional journey.
Pages: 279 | ASIN : B0BKCQ32ZB
The Daughter Between Them
Leslie Graham, an accomplished news editor, leads a fulfilling life in California with her two daughters, Jillian and Rhonda. Despite her contentment, the shadows of her past still loom over her. As Leslie pursues a promotion and her daughters gain independence, their lives are suddenly jeopardized when the girls are involved in a hit-and-run incident. Leslie starts to believe that their past is not entirely behind them and is prepared to do whatever it takes to protect her daughters, even if it means confronting old ghosts.
The Daughter Between Them by Alretha Thomas is a fast-paced crime thriller that captivates from the first page to the last. Spanning just over 300 pages, the novel reads quickly, thanks to Thomas’s skillful establishment of the central mystery and the escalating drama that leads to an exhilarating reveal and a satisfying conclusion. From the outset, Leslie is portrayed as a driven and capable mother and professional, yet she harbors a palpable fear rooted in her past. Her anxieties are validated when Jillian and Rhonda are targeted in a hit-and-run.
As Leslie grapples with the enigma of their attacker, readers are introduced to Barbara’s narrative from ten years earlier. Barbara, who initially appears to be a protective mother to her daughter Nancy, gradually reveals herself to be less sympathetic than she seems. The stories of Leslie and Barbara intertwine and eventually converge seamlessly. The dual perspectives and timelines are handled adeptly, enhancing the narrative’s depth and engagement. While mostly clear, the settings add an element of surprise and discovery. For example, a late excursion to a theme park starts with the intrigue of a mountain campground before the appearance of rides, and the eventual naming of the park clarifies the scene.
The Daughter Between Them is a compelling thriller that maintains its intrigue and excitement throughout. Thomas has crafted a convincing and consistently enjoyable read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Pages: 312 | ASIN : B0D1JR9N8W
Love and Protest
Love and Protest intertwines the lives of two young women, Harper and Libby, separated by time but united by their struggles for independence and identity. Harper, a modern teen from Hickory Springs, finds solace and inspiration in the 1960s diary of Libby, a girl who embarked on a daring journey to San Francisco during the height of the counterculture movement. As Harper delves into Libby’s past, she gains the courage to confront her own challenges and the oppressive circumstances of her life.
Author Nancy Klann-Moren’s writing shines with vivid descriptions and authentic character voices. The opening scene, where Harper stumbles upon the Second Chance Thrift Shop, is particularly evocative. The humidity of a Georgia day, the dusty nightstand with the diary, and the quaint charm of the shopkeeper all create a richly textured world. The narrative seamlessly shifts between Harper’s present-day struggles and Libby’s historical journey, maintaining a compelling pace that keeps the reader engaged.
One of the most poignant aspects of the book is its exploration of generational struggles and the quest for personal freedom. Harper’s discovery of Libby’s diary acts as a catalyst for her own transformation. The entries dated January 1 and January 4, 1967, reveal Libby’s determination to break free from her repressive environment. This historical perspective, I think, adds depth to Harper’s contemporary story, highlighting the universal desire for self-determination and the courage it takes to pursue one’s dreams.
The themes of addiction and recovery are handled with sensitivity and realism. Harper’s mother’s battle with opioids following a debilitating injury is portrayed with stark honesty. The emotional turmoil and the impact on Harper’s life are palpable. This subplot is not just a backdrop but a significant part of Harper’s growth. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of addiction, making Harper’s journey toward finding hope and strength all the more impactful.
While the story excels in its character development and vivid descriptions, one area that I think could be improved is the pacing in the book’s middle sections. I feel that the transitions between Harper’s and Libby’s narratives can sometimes feel abrupt, and the detailed exploration of certain subplots, like Harper’s interactions with secondary characters, occasionally slows the momentum.
Love and Protest is a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories with rich historical contexts. Nancy Klann-Moren’s ability to weave together the past and present through the lives of two resilient young women is engaging and thought-provoking. This book is particularly well-suited for readers interested in historical fiction, coming-of-age stories, and narratives that tackle social issues with a heartfelt touch.
Pages: 301 | ASIN : B0D2VMQGJT
Fire-Fight
Forgery by Deception follows a rebellious and ambitious banker who orchestrates a complex operation to smuggle drugs disguised as legitimate products and counterfeit currency. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I first thought about the counterfeit aspect many years ago when I watched an old Sherlock Holmes film, Dressed to Kill, starring Basil Rathbone. He is tasked with finding the hiding place of the Bank of England’s five-pound note plates before the criminals find it. The drugs were based on a friend’s job years ago. She was the Country Manager for a very large pharmaceutical firm producing drugs in a third-world country. It was only after I wrote my first novel Unfaithful, that I felt it was time for Forgery by Deception.
Richard Brock is a well-developed character that is believable and relatable. Was the character’s backstory something you always had, or did it develop as you were writing?
Only one part of Richard Brock’s character was based on a fellow I met many years ago. He was working for a New York Bank, setting up banks in Latin America. All of the other character traits were invented as I started writing the book.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
Actually, all the scenes between Cynthia Blane and John Paxton, I really enjoyed writing. I wanted to show their byplay as their relationship developed. I guess the fire-fight against Murray was the most intricate in terms of how to set up that scenario.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m working on a World War II spy story. It’s just in the research stage. I’m a student of WWII history, especially the espionage missions and deceptions that were carried out.
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First, they were going to create economic chaos in the United States economy, by producing currency that is both genuine and untraceable. By using an informant in the Treasury Department with a Top-Secret clearance, he was able to pull off the ‘Heist of the Century.’ A robbery so sensitive, that only a few select senior officials were informed. The result was that Security Chief, Thomas Ryan found it necessary to secure an independent agent outside of the Treasury Department, but with a department background.
Enter John Paxton, an old friend, and ex-Navy Seal, now retired who was a top Treasury Agent. Paxton, now 53 retired after having been seriously injured in a fire-fight during his last assignment. John is living on his sailboat the ‘PEGGY SUE,’ somewhere in the Florida Keys.
The Second part of Richard’s plan is to devise a one-hundred percent foolproof method of importing drugs into the United States. A method so complex, and a method so clever, that the DEA, The Coast Guard, and any other drug enforcement agencies, will be completely baffled.
Now for the last year, cut cocaine from Columbian drug lord Enrico Sanchez, has been successfully smuggled into New York City undetected.
Besides the law enforcement agents working on this case, a sharp and creative investigative reporter for The National magazine has been tirelessly concentrating on this one particular story, a petite 45-year-old Cynthia Blane.
Frustrated by lack of substantial leads and clues, Cynthia formulates an almost absurd theory as to how the drugs are being brought in. What if the drugs are coming in legally? If so, they would have to be different. They would have to be in an innocuous form. Some everyday product. Something we take for granted.
John Paxton now looking for any anomalies in recent unsolved crimes, is directed by Sean London of the DEA to contact Cynthia about her theory. After they meet on his sailboat anchored in the harbor of the Bahama Island, San Salvador, they exchange information about both their cases. They concluded that there is strong evidence that both of their cases are related in some fashion. The decision is that they join forces to solve both anomalies.
LITERARY TITAN 