Blog Archives
The Realm of Spirit
The Crying Tree and the Magic Rock is a captivating collection of true-life paranormal experiences interwoven with personal anecdotes and reflections. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I want readers to understand that we are constantly surrounded by and immersed in the realm of Spirit and that even in the most ordinary-seeming moments we may experience the sacred.
What is a common misconception you feel people have about paranormal events?
That anything paranormal is “of the Devil,” demonic, malevolent, or dangerous.
How has sharing your stories and experiences impacted or changed your life?
It’s made me aware of how many misconceptions there are in regard to the psychic and paranormal realm.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
My next book is titled, “The Can Sack Ghost,” and is more nonfiction paranormal experiences, and fans can look for it in mid to late 2025.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Enjoy the hair-raising supernatural event that happened to me when I was just a boy, running my paper route on my bicycle…in the dark; the magic rocks I’ve found over the years that wrote me messages on their surfaces; an incredible story of the Devil himself dancing with several women in a West Texas nightclub during Cinco de Mayo; guidance from the Other Side that enabled me to save the life of a young child; and…the bizarre story of a snake that saved me and my buddies from a beatdown!
And then, there’s those pesky UFOs! Read about my own up close and personal encounters with these strange craft and my subsequent observations that have led me to draw distinct conclusions about their behaviors. That’s just a smattering of the amazing true tales you’ll enjoy reading in my newest book, The Crying Tree and the Magic Rock.
I have three additional books available on Amazon for you to enjoy: Riding with Ghosts, Angels, and the Spirits of the Dead — A Knock in the Attic — 20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities
The Crying Tree and the Magic Rock
John Russell’s The Crying Tree and the Magic Rock is a captivating collection of true-life paranormal experiences interwoven with personal anecdotes and reflections. Russell takes readers on a journey through eerie encounters, from sentient trees to mystical rocks, blending a sense of wonder with profound themes about interconnectedness and respect for the natural and spiritual world.
Russell’s writing has a conversational tone that pulls you in, but at times, it feels almost too casual. The story about the titular “Crying Tree” stayed with me. Here, a half-dead magnolia tree with a face etched into its trunk becomes a symbol of neglect and care. Russell’s heartfelt interaction with the tree—and its eventual demise—was moving, especially as he detailed the “gifts” it left behind, like a canna and sunflower sprouting in its wake. Another standout moment is where a seemingly ordinary stone communicates with Russell, altering its weight, appearance, and even showcasing mystical symbols like his name. This chapter fascinated me but also raised questions. While Russell’s interpretations of these occurrences are earnest, the lack of critical exploration or skepticism may alienate readers who need more grounding. It’s undeniably entertaining, though, and his sincerity shines through every description. What truly kept me turning the pages were the unexpected doses of humor, as in “I Fried a Bus.” This anecdote about accidentally disabling a city bus with a burst of psychic energy was laugh-out-loud funny, showcasing Russell’s self-awareness and knack for finding humor in the bizarre.
The Crying Tree and the Magic Rock is ideal for those intrigued by the supernatural or anyone who enjoys deeply personal, reflective storytelling with a mystical edge. It’s not for skeptics looking for evidence or tight narratives. But if you’re open to wonder and a bit of the uncanny, this book feels like sitting down with a friend who has endless, bizarre, and heartfelt stories to share. It made me laugh, ponder, and—most importantly—believe a little more in the magic of the unseen.
Pages: 192 | ASIN : B0DK8MJ89N
The Wickedness of Horror
In Murder Under Redwood Moon, a young woman’s peaceful existence in the mountains is disrupted by cryptic visions. paranormal activity, and a series of murders. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
First, I have always LOVED the witch theme. As a child, I loved the good witches – Glinda (Wizard of Oz), Mrs. Piggle Wiggle (my fav book) and Samantha Stevens from Bewitched. As a late teen and adult, I relished in the wickedness of horror and the evil witch. When I found the Suspiria (remake) and Eggers – The Witch a few years back, it brought my fascination with this genre present. Cannot forget Melisandre, though really, she falls into a category all her own! Nevertheless, with a background in Holistic Theology, it piqued my interest in studying Celtic Paganism, and I was pleasantly surprised to find quite a reverence for the culture/philosophy. That brought me full circle to the good witch aspect.
Second, I have long been fascinated by True Crime, specifically serial killers. For the true crime reader, there is a combination of Easter eggs within the book. I invite the wise ones to figure that out.
Finally, though I find evil characteristics intriguing, I am an optimist at heart. So, I wanted this spooky, scary sense to the book, but also wanted it light.
Quite a contraindication of thoughts, but, yes…that was my train of thought.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
I lived in the Santa Cruz Mountains for about seven years, and in Santa Cruz County for a combined total of about thirty years. Just before the ease of the cell phone came out, my friends and I dreaded heading into the mountains lest our cars break down or run out of gas. Remember – I thrived on horror movies at that time as well – ha! So, there’s always been this spooky reverence as to what mystique existed amongst the trees. Like a wild animal – you admire it but wonder if it could break free and eat you.
Also, to begin the story, I just envisioned the beauty of the great horned owl amongst the redwoods – something I would see quite often – and the story bloomed, page by page.
What was your favorite character to write for and why?
I loved Auntie–her endearing quirk and ditzy-ness. And I loved the Sheriff–the dry reality that he inhabits, yet aware of the mystical. Arista is the upbeat person I wish I could have been at her age. Really, there is a bit of me in each of my characters. Even for the killer, my Editor helped me tap into my intolerant side. That, plus my awareness of the vileness of a serial killer and how they must view the world.
I feel that Murder Under Redwood Moon has all the makings of a first installment in a fascinating series. Do you have plans for a second book?
Murder Under Redwood Moon is Book 1 of the Murder, Tea & Crystals Trilogy. Book 2 – Moonset on Desert Sands – is under contract and in the final editing stage – to be released in March 2025. Book 3 is unnamed, yet almost complete.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Now at the age of twenty-three, she has settled quite nicely into an eclectic lifestyle, much like her great aunt, and guardian since childhood, Bethie. She enjoys the use of herbs and crystals to help her commune with the energy and nature around her and finds pleasure in the company of her beloved pet, Royal. Usually quite satisfied with her mundane life high in the Santa Cruz Mountains, life becomes unsettling when a new recurring vision of an ominous tattoo as well as increased activity from the ghostly presence within her own cottage invade her once-harmonious existence.
But life in this mountain sanctuary takes an even darker turn when the body of Arista’s former classmate is found in the nearby river. As other young women fall prey to a suspected serial killer, Arista realizes that the terror is coming to her.
Murder Under Redwood Moon
Sherri L. Dodd’s novel Murder Under Redwood Moon transports readers to the rustic and mystical backdrop of the Santa Cruz mountains, where Arista Kelly’s seemingly serene life intertwines with the supernatural. Arista, a young woman who finds solace in Ayurvedic practices and with her Siamese cat, Royal, faces her past and emerging powers amid a series of chilling events. The narrative captivates readers with its blend of genres, harmoniously merging cozy mystery, young adult drama, and light horror elements, creating a tapestry reminiscent of the Twilight series and Jess Kidd’s Things in Jars.
Arista’s character, with her unique quirks and journey of self-discovery, forms an engaging focal point. Readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates complex emotions and untangles her mysterious past. The novel’s strength lies in its richly developed secondary characters, including a diligent sheriff, the enigmatic Great Aunt Bethie, and an array of suspects linked to an unnerving series of murders.
Dodd’s skillful fusion of nature reverence, supernatural themes, and suspenseful plot twists results in a narrative brimming with intrigue and a touch of witchy allure. The novel’s climax delivers a satisfying resolution yet leaves readers yearning for more adventures in Boulder Creek. Dodd hints at the potential for future tales in this intriguing setting, promising continued enchantment and mystery for her readers.
The novel’s strength lies not only in its vivid setting and multidimensional characters but also in its ability to stitch together disparate genres into a cohesive, engaging story. Readers, having journeyed through this enthralling mix of the mystical and the mysterious, may find themselves eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the captivating universe that Sherri L. Dodd has crafted.
Pages: 319 | ASIN : B0CTKPM863
LITERARY TITAN 