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Moonset on Desert Sands
After a narrow escape from death, Arista retreats from Boulder Creek to the desert lands of Sedona, seeking sanctuary with her great-aunt Berthie and the Coven. Together, they build a quiet life away from the shadows of her past. Yet, even after a year, the threat of her ruthless Uncle Fergus looms large. His relentless ambition drives him to hunt Arista down, forcing her to prepare for an inevitable confrontation. Determined not to be a victim again, Arista dives into mastering spells, decoding auras, and honing the powers she is destined to wield. When visions, eerie signs, and an unexpected reunion trigger a carefully laid trap, it becomes alarmingly clear that Fergus is closer than ever. His greed knows no bounds, and with danger closing in, Arista must summon every ounce of strength for the battle of her life. The stakes couldn’t be higher—will she vanquish Fergus once and for all, or will his insatiable ambition dismantle everything she holds dear?
Sherri L. Dodd’s Moonset on Desert Sands grips readers with its relentless suspense, intricate plot twists, and dazzling display of magical mayhem. Each chapter brims with chaos and surprises, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. The characters are compellingly drawn, with Fergus stealing the show as the villain. Unlike the first installment, in which he remains in the shadows, Fergus dominates this book, his schemes driving the narrative forward. His villainy is so vivid and theatrical that he’s almost charming—an antagonist you can’t help but admire, even as you root for his downfall.
Meanwhile, Arista’s characterization is more complex. At times, her decisions feel justified and strategic; at others, they seem erratic, which adds an intriguing, if occasionally frustrating, layer to her journey. Stevie, on the other hand, is a delightful wildcard. His humor and recklessness provide levity, making him a standout. This sequel amplifies the magic. Every page bursts with spells, aura readings, and mystical rituals, immersing readers in a world of non-stop witchcraft. While the book is lengthy, its rich plot, dynamic characters, and constant action ensure the pacing rarely falters.
Fans of magic, witchcraft, and light thrillers will find Moonset on Desert Sands an enchanting escape. Though it’s the second book in the Murder, Tea, and Crystals series, it stands alone beautifully, offering newcomers an unforgettable journey into its spellbinding world.
Pages: 371 | ASIN : B0DF33L1YW
Enduring Friendship
The Blue Mask follows a lead singer and lead guitarist who grapples with addiction, loss, and the unpredictable highs and lows of stardom. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted to explore another world that I have not lived in. That’s one of the things about fiction that I love – the ability to get lost in a world you would perhaps never experience. I wanted to deal with the 90s and the lack of social media, smartphones, and instant information. That time period was easier in many ways than now, when everyone can find out almost anything and so much is permanently on file, so to speak. The AIDS epidemic was also raging – at a time when having AIDS was 100% fatal. As well, I wanted to explore the rock stardom angle – where the public perception is not always the same as the private perception of people. And of course, the cost of being a rock star – the compromises that must be made, the price of fame, and the dark side of being in the spotlight.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I enjoyed writing them all – Alix and Joel especially, as they have such an incredibly close relationship. Both were a challenge. I found Alix was more problematic as she has demons that she fights privately and does not often share. Both of them have had past traumas that have affected their current behaviour. The British characters were an absolute delight and a lot of fun. The rest of the band and Ash, Robin, and Brad were also demanding. As this book contains a lot of characters, one of the issues was maintaining their identities within the sub-stories and by-plays. There are a lot of voices in The Blue Mask.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The AIDS epidemic was important, especially the attitude towards AIDS patients at that time. There were a lot of misconceptions and many suffered from more than just the disease – the shunning, the lack of acceptance and compassion, and the ignorance surrounding the disease and those who had it. I also wanted to explore the cost of achieving your dreams. No one warned the band how high that would be, which is often the case with musicians, actors, artists, etc when they first start out. There is always the initial push, the pursuit of exposure and popularity, and the need for acceptance. Once achieved at high levels, privacy becomes a rare thing. My main theme, however, was the enduring friendship between these characters and the fact that they treated each other as family. There was never a question that they would not support each other, being there through thick and thin.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be published?
The Blue Mask is actually the third book in a trilogy. Both book 1 (The Alley View) and book 2 (The Blue Angel) have been written but I need to do more research as the trilogy begins in 1985. My intention was to start on book 1 after The Blue Mask was published. Characters, however, are wild cards and have minds of their own. The characters in The Blue Mask decided that they weren’t finished yet, so I began a new write this year with book 4 (The Beat Goes On) to complete the series. It picks up where The Blue Mask ends. I have completed the first draft and am working on rewrites. If all goes well, it should be out later in 2025. Then I will return to book 1 – The Alley View, which brings the characters together and covers the formation of the band and its first year.
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Drugs, sex and rock and roll—that was the name of the game for hard rock musicians like the Blue Mask. Founded by singer Alix Lane and lead guitarist Joel Stark in 1985, they lived the anthem. A year later both the band and their drummer were dead. 1988 saw a new Blue Mask, cleaned up, regrouped and touring. It is now 1990. AIDS is still an epidemic for both hetero- and homosexuals. Social media is not a thing. Or smartphones. Or the age of unlimited information. But it is the year of the Blue Mask. Dreams do come true, and their star ascends with international fame and success. Nothing can go wrong for Alix and Joel’s band and their close circle of friends. Until it does. But this group has only each other to rely on and they will survive tragedy. This is their story.
An Unexpected Nemesis
In The Consortium – Genesis, a secret society of scientists and science enthusiasts sacrifices the lives of abandoned and lonely individuals as they attempt to evolve the human race. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Actually, it came to me in a dream. Literally. Normally my dreams are a confusing, clouded mess, but in this instance, the story was clear and very memorable. In fact, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. It grew so much in my head, it filled my thoughts and I had a hard time being able to think about anything else. So, I decided to write it down to try and get it out of my head (and get a little peace up in there). The next thing I know, I’ve got a novel.
How long did it take you to imagine, draft, and write the world your characters live in?
Basically, the story was there. I just had to write it down. It took about 2 months of steady writing to get the first part of it down, about 350 pages worth. It left off with something of a cliffhanger and I thought I was done. I gave it to a good friend to read, and she was like, “Where’s the rest of it?” I told her that was it, and she said, “No no no, you can’t leave my girl [Amelia] hanging like that. Where’s the rest of it?” So I sat down, re-read it, then thought, “Well, s**t, she’s right.” I didn’t have the ability to write full time so it took me about 2 years to get the rest of the trilogy written, but I was finally able to finish it, lol!
What was your favorite character to write for and why? Was there a scene you felt captured the character’s essence?
Oh, wow … that’s a tough one. I love all the main characters – Amelia, Spike, Hao, Drake, and Shane. They complement each other so well. I guess my favorite scene is the one where they all meet at The Black Door bar for the first time, when Amelia shows them her powers. That initial part where they realize they can hear Spike’s thoughts and their reactions, were laugh-out-loud funny to me. Makes me smile every time I think about it.
Can you give readers a peek inside the next installment of this series? When can we expect to see it released?
Absolutely! In fact, I made sure all of it was completed before I even attempted to publish so people wouldn’t have to wait and wonder if I was going to continue it. That’s something I hate myself, so I didn’t want to leave my readers like that. Amelia’s story doesn’t end with Genesis. She and the gang face even greater obstacles in Rising as they continue their efforts to dismantle The Consortium from the inside. More characters are introduced, culminating in the final showdown and battle with an unexpected nemesis in Apex. The digital version of Genesis, along with the paperback and digital versions of Rising and Apex, will be available on August 1, 2024. I am also working on the audiobook for Genesis and hope to have it completed and available within the next one to two months. The paperback and digital versions are available on Amazon, and while I hope to get the audiobook accepted by Audible, that will take a while. In the meantime, once it’s ready, the audiobook version will be available for purchase on my website (https://www.bachapman.com). For those who are interested, be sure to use the sign-up form on my website to be notified of upcoming release dates.
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Amelia is a young woman trapped within the diabolical web of The Consortium – a powerful, secret organization run by scientists who have turned science fiction into science fact.
Over the decades, The Consortium has grown in numbers and power. There are only two classes of people that are important to them: their scientists, and those that help fund their work. No one else matters.
Amelia is one of The Consortium’s many victims, known as inductees. The scientists use them in their cruel experiments to further their goals of evolving the human race.
When an experiment unexpectedly turns her into a player instead of a pawn – one with abilities only previously imagined as possible – she realizes she might just get the chance to end the living nightmare she has fallen victim to …
… even though it may cost her her humanity – and her soul – in the process.
Humanity Is Not Sacrificed
Humans’ Enhancements follows an artificially enhanced soldier who is reprogrammed by his father to serve the resistance. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I am a professional engineer who spent over thirty years in the military as an engineering officer. I also served over a year in combat. I have seen the best and the worst in men.
As a child, I was a fan of Star Trek and Star Wars; admittedly, I still am. However, I have been a strange puppy regarding education since I earned my first degree in philosophy and psychology, which made me question everything. My engineering was a result of joining the military and becoming an engineering officer and then going back to school and obtaining an engineering degree.
In addition, I enjoyed reading and was inspired by 1984 and Animal Farm by George Orwell.
The science inserted in the fiction, I felt, was well-balanced. How did you manage to keep it grounded while still providing the fantastic edge science fiction stories usually provide?
I tried to keep the reader in mind and strive to avoid being an ENGINERD, TECHNO-GEEK, or a MILITARY SHARPSHOOTER. 🙂
I do not expect the reader to have my passion for engineering, technology, and the military. However, I understand that people will marvel at their results.
On a personal note, I thank the Good Lord that I was blessed with two careers I love: a soldier and a civil engineer.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I was striving to explore the theme of avoiding giving up your humanity and freedom for a promise of security and stability. In addition, the STATE is capable of becoming tyrannical, and we need to ensure that our humanity is not sacrificed for AI enhancements or governmental/corporate efficiency.
Where does the story go in the next book, and where do you see it going in the future?
Book two has been recently published. This book is called ANOTHER WORLD. I plan to write a third book to complete the trilogy.
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The Intricacies of Relationships
The Story of Josette and Daniel follows the lives of a couple who meet at Juilliard and the path their lives take both apart and back together again. Where did the idea for this trilogy come from, and how did it develop over time?
The idea for The Story of Josette and Daniel Trilogy began as a seed when I was just 17, sparked by the initial creation of the first three chapters of Josette. However, as life unfolded and presented its twists and turns, the trilogy took shape gradually, with the completion of Book 1, Josette, during the pandemic serving as a pivotal moment. The encouragement and curiosity of my readers further fueled the development, leading to the creation of Book 2, delving deeper into Daniel’s character and perspective. Book 3 emerged as the culmination of their love story, spanning four decades and exploring the enduring nature of their connection amidst life’s trials and triumphs.
What was the inspiration for the love story and the connection the characters have?
The inspiration for the love story between Josette and Daniel stemmed from a desire to capture the essence of a timeless and profound connection. Their relationship was crafted to reflect the complexities of human emotions, the power of shared experiences, and the resilience of love across time. Drawing from personal experiences and observations of enduring relationships, I sought to imbue their connection with authenticity, depth, and relatability, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in their journey.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Several themes were integral to The Story of Josette and Daniel Trilogy, reflecting the broader human experience and the intricacies of relationships. Love, of course, was central, explored in its various forms and manifestations, from the initial spark of attraction to the enduring bond forged over decades. Themes of loss and grief added depth to the narrative, highlighting the profound impact of separation and the journey towards healing. Additionally, themes of personal growth, resilience, and the passage of time were woven throughout, resonating with readers on a universal level and prompting reflection on their own lives and relationships.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
Looking ahead, my next project, The KEAK Anthology, Volume 2, continues the exploration of storytelling but in a different format. This collection of short stories offers a diverse range of narratives, each encapsulating unique themes, characters, and emotions. It is an opportunity to delve into new worlds, explore different genres, and connect with readers in fresh and unexpected ways. Stay tuned for its release, where I hope to continue captivating and engaging audiences with the power of storytelling.
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In the embrace of falling snow, Josette, now seated by the window in her cherished chair, is transported back to a moment etched in time—when she, at 25, returned from a triumphant global piano tour to the comforting blanket of snow outside her childhood home.
Josette and Daniel’s serendipitous meeting at The Juilliard School unfolds into a transformative love story. Through shared laughter and profound connection, they became each other’s anchors. Parting ways after Josette’s graduation did not sever their bond; instead, it led to a rekindling of their love in later years.
As life’s seasons unfolded, Josette and Daniel embraced retirement and the pursuit of their passions. Their shared journey witnessed the growth of family, the pursuit of dreams, and the gentle passage of time. Graciously aging together, they reveled in the joys of children and grandchildren.
Now, with snow falling outside her window once again, Josette sits alone, reminiscing. Her beloved Daniel is gone, leaving behind echoes of a lifetime filled with love and cherished memories. The gentle snowfall becomes a bittersweet reminder of a love that transcends time, forever etched in her heart.
Certain But Unpredictable
Thaddeus and the Master follows three Brother Apprentices who have arrived at the College of Sorcerers only to face new challenges and tribulations set upon them by both the senior students and the Faculty. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Back in the 70s, I used to drive to Chicago from Milwaukee for certain post-graduate studies I was attending in the Windy City. On those drives, I began to entertain the fantasy of what it would be like to attend a Sorcerer’s school – what sort of trouble would the students get into, what sort of pranks would they attempt, and what measures would the faculty – with centuries of this sort of behavioral experience under their belts – employ.
The concept gradually evolved over time to more of a full-fledged story and the details filled themselves in.
In a lot of contemporary coming-of-age fiction novels, authors often add their own life experiences to the story. Are there any bits of you in this story?
Yes, especially in several of the characters who I ‘borrowed’ from various high school friends. I found it easier to take a person I already knew about in a way and modify them to fit the story as opposed to inventing an entire personality on the spot. Just being lazy, I suppose.
In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away by the magical powers of characters. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?
In this series, our Sorcerers are limited by the fact that each and every time they use their powers – even in the learning process – their life spans are reduced by a random, variable, and unknowable amount. One could cause a teacup to appear on Monday and lose 13 minutes of life span. On Tuesday of the same week, the same act could cost a Sorcerer 2 years of life span. The fact that it is certain but unpredictable causes a great deal of parsimony in the use of Sorcery in this world.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Thaddeus and the direction of the third book?
In Thaddeus and the Daemon, the evil plot of the corrupted Master Sorcerer and his Daemon accomplice is at last uncovered. Our Hero then goes to confront the pair knowing that he, a first-year only student, is sadly out-classed in power in facing the twain. Grasping at straws he begins to entertain the counter-intuitive idea that if he surrenders all of his Sorcerous powers he will, somehow, achieve the advantage over his antagonists. The results of this desperate move are eye-opening.
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The three Brother Apprentices have arrived at the College of Sorcerers only to face new challenges and tribulations set upon them by both the senior students and the Faculty.
Hindering their advancement at College are a collection of obstacles including a half-mad Centaur, a Green Goblin, the last living Father of Man, drug-seeking Sprites, sentient warrior statues, the Guardian of the Temple of Time, murderous attacks by Excelsior-Class brigands, Graecolian Slavers, the uncloaked evil of a twisted Master Sorcerer and the Pale Horse of Death.
. Can Thaddeus truly trust the mysterious Prince from far-distant Mauretesia?
. Can Thaddeus and his three friends solve the riddle of what lies behind the mirrors?
. Can Rolland prove how the College’s cook can claim to have fathered the leader of Fountaindale’s Thieve’s Guild?
. Can the Daemon’s challenge to Thaddeus be answered by his brother Apprentices?
. Can the ancient Lay of Man unravel the fate of the Father of Man?
. Can the four friends alter the dread fate prophesied by the Pale Horse?
In Louis Sauvain’s epic fantasy Book One, Thaddeus of Beewicke, the tortuous and danger-laden journey to the Sorcerer’s school is at last completed. In Book Two, Thaddeus and the Master, the young Apprentices at the College of Sorcerers learn first-hand the life-threatening risks of spell-casting, hand-to-hand combat and confrontation with hostile upperclassmen, disdainful Faculty and the deadly presence of the school’s Daemon.
Sauvain’s strength prevails creating a page-turner of strong and vigorous cast of characters.
Life-Changing Moments
Every Silent Thing follows a shy and deaf twenty-three-year-old woman working in the U.S. Embassy in Paris who discovers a gunshot victim in the bathroom, where she is given a mysterious thumb drive. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for Every Silent Thing involves several avenues: Claire and Megan’s characters were derived from my identical twin nieces. Having lived in Europe for a few years, I wanted to use a European setting for the story. Another niece had spent considerable time touring Paris (a city I never had the chance to include in my journeys) so with her support, I created the Paris settings. My own hearing impairment gave rise to exploring deafness in a fictional story. Desiring a deaf woman as my protagonist, I consulted a deaf female author I knew from Canada to obtain her perspective on deafness.
Claire is a young and excited woman who is starting her dream job in Paris when everything changes in a moment. Do you think there’s a single moment in everyone’s life, maybe not as traumatic, that is life-changing?
I absolutely do believe in life-changing moments, having had several such moments in my own life – traumatic and non-traumatic.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The themes of importance to me in the creation of Every Silent Thing were mistaken identity, the family dynamic, sibling love, a Phoenix Rising theme for both Claire and Megan, and personal growth.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Claire and the direction of the second book?
The second in the trilogy, Never Say A Word, is the story of a fanatical Italian millionaire’s kidnapping scheme to make Claire his wife. The story is set in Rome, Italy, and Paris, France, and involves themes of Stockholm syndrome, sibling love, mistaken identity, and aberrant behavior. The third book in the trilogy, Breaking Silence, will be released this summer.
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The Resilience of the Human Spirit
Strength in Motion: The Next Chapter of Stroke examines not just the physical but also the psychological effects of stroke recovery. This seems like a very personal story for you. How hard was it to share it with the world?
Sharing my journey in Strength in Motion: The Next Chapter of Stroke was indeed deeply personal. It required vulnerability and courage to open up about not only the physical challenges but also the emotional and psychological aspects of stroke recovery. Initially, it was daunting to expose such intimate details of my experience to the world. However, I recognized the importance of shedding light on the holistic nature of stroke recovery, beyond just the physical rehabilitation. Through sharing my story, I hoped to offer solace and inspiration to others who might be traversing similar paths. While it was emotionally taxing at times, knowing that my words could potentially make a positive impact on someone else’s journey made the process immensely rewarding. Ultimately, the decision to share my story stemmed from a desire to break down the stigma surrounding strokes and foster a greater understanding of the challenges faced by survivors.
For those who lack a strong support system in their recovery, what advice or words of wisdom do you have for them?
Recovery from a stroke can indeed be a challenging journey, especially without a strong support system. My advice for those facing such circumstances is to remember that you are not alone. Seek out support wherever you can find it, whether it’s through online communities, support groups, or connecting with healthcare professionals who specialize in stroke rehabilitation. Additionally, don’t hesitate to lean on friends and family members who are willing to lend a helping hand and offer emotional support. Remember that every small step forward is a victory, and progress takes time. Stay resilient, be patient with yourself, and never underestimate the power of determination and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Strength in Motion and the entire trilogy?
One of the core messages I hope readers take away from Strength in Motion and the entire trilogy is the resilience of the human spirit. Through my journey and the narratives of other stroke survivors, I aim to impart a sense of hope and empowerment. I want readers to understand that while stroke recovery may present numerous challenges, it is possible to emerge from adversity with newfound strength and resilience. Additionally, I hope to foster a greater understanding and empathy towards stroke survivors, breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding this condition. Ultimately, I aspire for my books to inspire and motivate readers to embrace life’s challenges with courage and determination.
Do you plan to write more books? If so, what topics can readers expect?
Yes, I do plan to continue writing and sharing stories that inspire and uplift others. While specific topics for future books are still in development, I am passionate about exploring themes related to resilience, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. Additionally, I am keen on delving into subjects that promote mental health awareness and foster a greater sense of compassion and understanding within society. As always, my aim will be to shine a light on important issues while offering messages of hope and empowerment to readers.
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Strength in Motion: The Next Chapter of Stroke offers a profound look at one man’s incredible journey of triumph over adversity, shedding light on the physical, emotional, and psychological hurdles that often characterise the aftermath of a stroke.
From someone gripped by fear to an individual emerging with greater strength and confidence, Terence’s story transcends the ordinary and speaks to the indomitable spirit that resides within us all.
Within these pages, readers are taken on a voyage into the transformative power of exercise, witnessing how movement contributes not only to the restoration of physical abilities, but also the reshaping of one’s mindset.
The inclusion of medical perspectives and fellow stroke survivors’ narratives provide a broader understanding of the complexities inherent in stroke recovery. This book intertwines expert insights with Terence’s journey together with previously unreleased images providing a visual diary of his life, exploring the transformative potential of exercise in stroke recovery. It was crafted to offer a fresh perspective on the subject, with QR codes that link to various exercises featured in the book.
Strength in Motion: The Next Chapter of Stroke aims to empower survivors of stroke, and initiate discussions on how the larger society can offer support and solidarity to those on the path of recovery. It presents much opportunity to explore innovative approaches, resources, and avenues for enhancing the lives of stroke survivors.
LITERARY TITAN 