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Dedication and Persistence

John Russell Author Interview

20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities teaches readers how to increase their psychic abilities by following your practical step-by-step lessons that build on each other to help hone one’s skills. What sparked the need to write this book?

For many years, the Other Side has communicated and taught these techniques to me; I put them into practice for myself, so I know they work. I began to teach these principles to my clients when appropriate so that they could utilize them to improve their lives. It dawned on me that I needed to accumulate these lessons into a book so that these valuable techniques could be communicated to a wider audience and help more people.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

That developing psychic abilities and increasing spiritual growth is not an onerous, difficult task. I wanted my readers to understand that developing their inherent gifts and abilities is within easy reach. I simplified the techniques so that anyone can easily understand them and put them into practice right away.

What experience in your life has had the biggest impact on your writing?

Authoring and publishing my first book, Riding with Ghosts, Angels, and the Spirits of the Dead. That opened up the floodgates, and I’ve now published three multi-award-winning books, with more on the way. I owe it all to completing that first book.

What is one thing that you hope readers take away from 20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities?

Although the techniques are easy to learn and put into practice it takes dedication and persistence to see results.

Author Website

John’s third book, “20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities,” is a series of practical how-to lessons in psychic development that will take you by the hand and walk you step-by-step through the learning process as you discover how to: successfully learn and practice psychometry; accurately interpret your dreams; begin to understand and read the Tarot cards; safely conduct your own seance; practice effective candle magic; make your own amulets and talismans; practice healing; record spirit voices; attract the perfect mate; and much more.

As an internationally known professional psychic John is frequently asked by his worldwide clientele, “How can I develop my own psychic abilities?” In response to those requests John has authored this book to help anyone to increase their own psychic powers, and to apply those powers in practical ways in order to better their lives and the lives of others.

The reader doesn’t have to have any psychic knowledge or training to be able to use this book right away. The complete beginner can begin with the first chapter and learn to practice psychometry successfully, and then proceed through the book and learn other exciting, entertaining, and useful techniques. And someone with above average psychic abilities and understanding may still find some useful theory and knowledge that they can apply, as well as new food for thought.

From the foreword written by JV Johnson (Ghost Hunters TV show. Host — Paranormal IRL; Beyond Reality; The Independence Gang. publisher/editor of TAPS Para-magazine.): “In 20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities, John offers the same guidance for any who look to broaden their spectrum of understanding. John presents a straightforward and eye-opening approach to unleashing your psychic potential. As he says, ‘…like all things, practice and consistency is key.’ You will find him to be an inspiration as I have for the years I have known him. And, even though you may not have the chance to meet John personally, through his books and his words, you will find in him, as I did, a true friend.” JV Johnson.

John Russell has been a professional psychic for 50 years. Internationally known, he has provided psychic readings for clients in over 40 countries. John filmed a TV pilot for The History Channel in which he psychically explored the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. For over 15 years he has been a popular featured guest, heard worldwide, on many radio shows and podcasts.

Over the last year and a half John has been interviewed over 100 times, including appearances on: Coast to Coast AM with George Noory — The Unexplained with Howard Hughes (UK) — FATE Magazine Radio with Kat Hobson — Beyond Reality with JV Johnson — Darkness Radio with Tim Dennis — Shifting the Paradigm with Cristina Gomez — The Unidentified Celebrity Review with Luis Jimenez; and many more.

Also available by John Russell: “Riding with Ghosts, Angels, and the Spirits of the Dead” and “A Knock in the Attic.”

20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities

20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities by John Russell offers a comprehensive and practical guide for anyone interested in developing their psychic skills. The book begins with clear, actionable advice on performing psychometry, stressing the importance of having a suitable partner with a good memory, belief in psychic abilities, and honesty. Russell underscores the need for focus and a distraction-free environment during practice sessions, ensuring readers understand the importance of concentration in honing their abilities.

The author extends the application of psychometry beyond object readings, exploring its potential in assessing people and situations. He delves into how psychometry can provide insights into relationships, business dealings, and even health concerns. This thorough analysis and attention to detail are consistent throughout the book. Russell provides detailed instructions and explanations, encouraging readers to trust their impressions and avoid self-censorship. Through anecdotes and examples, he demonstrates how each of the 20 methods can yield accurate insights into objects and their histories, thereby improving psychic abilities.

Russell’s approach is practical and grounded, insisting on dedication and practice in developing psychic skills. The book is logically structured, guiding the reader progressively deeper into the subject matter without overwhelming them. It covers not only the how-to aspects but also what is needed to succeed. The author highlights the practical applications of psychometry, showing how it can be used to gain insights into people and situations, make informed decisions, avoid potential financial pitfalls, and assess relationships.

20 Ways to Increase Your Psychic Abilities is an engaging and well-written book that will prompt readers to consider their psychic potential and other phenomena. John Russell’s clear guidance and thorough exploration of the topic make this book a significant resource for enhancing one’s psychic abilities.

Pages: 170 | ASIN : B0CFD28JP9

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Guardians of the Latte Stones

Set against the backdrop of Sasebo’s economic struggles, Guardians of the Latte Stones, by M.K. Aleja, is a compelling historical fiction narrative interwoven with elements of folklore and the harsh realities of World War II. The story follows Yuki and Takeshi, siblings grappling with the loss of their parents and the cruelty of their guardians. Takeshi, seeking an escape, enlists in Japan’s Imperial Army, believing he’s secured a favorable position on a seemingly tranquil tropical island. However, the island harbors a dark secret, challenging Takeshi’s perceptions of warfare and morality.

Aleja masterfully merges fantasy and historical elements, weaving a narrative rich in suspense and tinged with a sense of foreboding. This novel skillfully intertwines authentic historical details with creative storytelling, immersing readers in the era’s cultural, social, and emotional contexts. Structured like a classic fairytale, it features a young protagonist navigating a world of sinister relatives and pivotal decisions. The story centers on Takeshi, whose initial dreams of glorified military service clash with the harsh realities of war, forming the story’s core. The characters are thoughtfully crafted, bringing their challenges and victories to life in a way that resonates with readers.

Aleja’s meticulous approach to narrative construction and his knack for intricate storytelling are noteworthy, offering an engaging and enlightening read. This book poignantly addresses the human toll of war, presenting a seldom-seen perspective on WWII. As the plot progresses, Takeshi and the readers encounter the ancestral spirits of Guam. These spirits, seeking retribution for past injustices, introduce a supernatural layer to the story. Their actions and subsequent developments prompted Takeshi to reevaluate the Japanese army’s role on the island, providing an insightful look at the effects of wartime occupation.

Guardians of the Latte Stones is a story that transcends its historical setting, weaving together elements of a ghost story and a poignant commentary on the futility of war. Aleja’s approach is both ambitious and nuanced, imbuing the novel with a rich emotional depth. This book is not just a historical account but a multifaceted exploration of war, cultural conflict, and moral ambiguity.

Pages: 377 | ASIN : B0CTS9KYR9

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The Wickedness of Horror

Sherri L. Dodd Author Interview

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

At the age of eight, Arista Kelly was frantically swept up by her parents and whisked off to an isolated town in the California redwoods. Two days later, her parents were gone.

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

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Route 666

Jack Aitken could have never imagined that the seemingly innocuous idea of penning a book would instead open the door to a nightmare of biblical proportions. Adrift in life and wondering what had happened to all the dreams he once held, Jack found vigor and purpose in his plan to write, throwing himself into research regarding Native American legends, reported odd occurrences, and anything else he could find regarding route 666 in rural Virginia. He soon found that legends often have a basis in truth and that route 666 was indeed on the path to Hell. With the literal balance of good and evil at stake, Jack has to rely on the aid of an old friend, a strength he never knew existed, and faith in a God he had long felt removed from to save life as he knew it.

Route 666: Highway to Hell by J.D. Toepher is an incredible thriller with twists and turns that continue up to the last page. Combining various elements and themes that cover a broad spectrum, Toepher risks overloading his book with too much information and plot lines. However, at no point does the book venture into that territory; each new character and story melds perfectly into the action already in play. Meticulous research was done in the process of writing this book (mirroring Jack’s own journey, but hopefully with better results!) as Toepher places everyone in context, down to the religious rituals and history. 

Hopelessness, redemption, the ideas of good and evil, and doing the wrong things for the right reasons are the themes that keep the narrative rolling in this book. Jack is written as a complex character and supplied with enough backstory to truly be a complete and well-rounded character, easy to feel sorry for as he travels his unfortunate path. However, as each layer unravels and every new twist is revealed, it soon becomes obvious that there’s no way to predict what will happen next. 

Route 666: Highway to Hell is a suspenseful horror that gives readers bits of historical information, occult and supernatural, all combined into a thrilling read. It is extremely well written, and the ending will leave readers shocked. In addition, the background and history in the book are interesting enough to encourage you to look further into those aspects of it. I hope to see more from Toepher in the future because this was a fantastic thriller!

Pages: 382 | ASIN : B09FS54PV6

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