Everything I’ve learned about writing has grown from my love of reading. I began my writing career at the tender age of seven, when I wrote a play for my third-grade class. It was not an assignment; I did it because I discovered I loved creative writing as much as I loved reading. I received a children’s typewriter the next year, and countless short stories followed. I wrote some awful poetry during my teen years, then some not-so-awful short stories over the next two decades. I became serious about writing books ten years ago. The timing felt right, and I created the world-altering habit of writing every day. My first published novel, Secrets Under the Mesa, began as a short story. I decided it had some legs and went with it. The inspiration for The Troop of Shadows Chronicles emerged from two directions: my love of post-apocalyptic fiction and a recent interest in disaster preparedness. Stephen King says, “Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work.” The hard work is worth it. I hope you enjoy my novels. I wrote them for fellow book lovers just like you.
Eating the Elephant
Sublime Seven
The Sublime Seven – Time Travel with a Transcedent Twist
Following a botched armed robbery, J awakens in a black void and meets Sarah, a Spiritual Guide tasked with mentoring the transcendence of souls.
“Where am I?”
“You’re in the In Between. Are you comfortable? Do you need anything? A Coke? Maybe a cigarette?”
“Why would I want a Coke or a cigarette if I’m dead?”
“They can’t really harm you at this point. If they offer comfort, you may enjoy them now.”
“How? I don’t have a mouth anymore.”
“Sure you do. You’re talking with it.”
“It’s more the suggestion of a mouth. Or maybe the memory of one. That’s what it feels like, at least.”
“Well stated. It’s true your physical body was left behind in that other place, but taking on its form again here serves a purpose. It will make all this easier to get through. Do you think you can manage that?”
“Let me try.”
“Ah, there you are. You were quite handsome in your previous life.”
“You’re drop-dead gorgeous. Are you an angel?”
“We’ll get to all that soon enough. Let’s talk about what happened. Before you died.”
“I think I got shot in the chest. That Kwik Shop clerk had a sawed-off shotgun behind the cash register.”
“He did, but that’s not what I’m referring to. Let’s talk about your life leading up to its tragic end.”
J can travel any WHERE and any WHEN for the boldest, most challenging learning opportunities…transcendence isn’t for the faint-hearted.
The journey spans a pyramid builders’ village in Giza to the Dakota Plains, from Renaissance Italy to prehistory Mesopotamia, from a Martian colony to 1960s Kansas. How many incarnations will it take? What lessons must be learned along the way?
Buy The Sublime Seven and witness one soul’s quest to solve all the mysteries of life, one adventure at a time.
Classic Horror Books
Classic Horror Books: Timeless Tales of Terror
Horror, as a literary genre, has been an enduring source of fascination and dread for readers throughout history. Classic horror books have played a significant role in shaping our fears and have left an indelible mark on the world of literature. These timeless tales of terror continue to captivate and haunt readers with their enduring power to send shivers down the spine. In this article, we explore some of the most iconic classic horror books that have stood the test of time.
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley (1818)
Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is often hailed as the original science fiction horror novel. It tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who dares to play God by creating a living being from the parts of the deceased. The creature he brings to life, often mistakenly referred to as Frankenstein, becomes a symbol of both the tragic consequences of unchecked ambition and the outcast seeking vengeance. Shelley’s novel explores themes of creation, responsibility, and the essence of humanity.
“Dracula” by Bram Stoker (1897)
Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” introduced one of the most iconic characters in literary history: Count Dracula. The novel, presented as a series of journal entries and letters, tells the story of Dracula’s attempt to spread the undead curse in England. It’s a tale of vampire folklore, superstition, and the battle between good and evil. Stoker’s narrative has inspired countless vampire stories and is a cornerstone of gothic horror.
“The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson (1886)
Robert Louis Stevenson’s “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” explores the duality of human nature. Dr. Jekyll’s experiment to separate his good and evil sides results in the emergence of the sinister Mr. Hyde. The novella delves into the consequences of suppressing one’s dark impulses and the struggle between civilization and primal instincts, making it a timeless exploration of the human psyche.
“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde (1890)
Oscar Wilde’s only novel, “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” is a chilling exploration of the price of vanity and moral decay. Dorian Gray, a young man, remains youthful and handsome while a portrait of himself ages and reflects the depravity of his life. The novel raises questions about the nature of art, the corrupting influence of society, and the consequences of hedonism.
“The Turn of the Screw” by Henry James (1898)
Henry James’ novella, “The Turn of the Screw,” is a masterpiece of psychological horror. A young governess becomes convinced that the two children she cares for are possessed by malevolent spirits. The novella’s ambiguous narrative leaves readers questioning the sanity of the governess and the true nature of the supernatural elements, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and dread.
“The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson (1959)
Shirley Jackson’s “The Haunting of Hill House” is a modern classic in the horror genre. It follows a group of people who stay at the notoriously haunted Hill House to investigate its supernatural occurrences. The novel is known for its intricate and psychologically unsettling storytelling, blurring the lines between the supernatural and the psychological.
“The Shining” by Stephen King (1977)
Stephen King’s “The Shining” is a contemporary classic that has redefined the haunted house subgenre. It tells the story of the Torrance family, who move to the isolated Overlook Hotel. As winter sets in, the hotel’s malevolent spirits begin to prey on the family, particularly young Danny Torrance. King’s mastery lies in his ability to blend supernatural horror with deeply human elements, making “The Shining” a gripping and terrifying read.
“Psycho” by Robert Bloch (1959)
Robert Bloch’s “Psycho” is the book that inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s legendary film. It introduces the infamous character Norman Bates, a seemingly mild-mannered motel owner with a gruesome secret. The novel delves into the mind of a killer and explores the nature of madness, creating a chilling psychological thriller.
“The Exorcist” by William Peter Blatty (1971)
William Peter Blatty’s “The Exorcist” is a tale of possession and demonic forces that terrorize a young girl and her family. The novel explores themes of faith and the battle between good and evil. Blatty’s work remains a harrowing and deeply disturbing classic in the realm of supernatural horror.
“The Call of Cthulhu and Other Weird Stories” by H.P. Lovecraft (1928)
H.P. Lovecraft’s collection of short stories, “The Call of Cthulhu and Other Weird Stories,” is a seminal work in the realm of cosmic horror. Lovecraft’s tales are known for their cosmic indifference and the insignificance of humanity in the face of ancient, eldritch entities. “The Call of Cthulhu,” in particular, has become a touchstone for Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos, influencing countless horror writers and artists.
These classic horror books have left an indelible mark on the genre, shaping the way we perceive fear and the unknown. They continue to be read, studied, and adapted for new generations of readers, reminding us that the best horror stories are those that endure through the ages, keeping us awake at night and making us question the nature of our darkest fears.
Moving with the Sun
Moving with the Sun – Book 3 in the Troop of Shadows Chronicles
You’re one of the lucky ones – you lived through the global pandemic that eradicated seven billion people. You survived civilization’s collapse and the unspeakable atrocities committed by desperate people.
Now it’s two years later…and you’re still alive.
So are two intriguing groups of survivors living in close proximity on the Florida coast. The first, a harmonious community of highly intelligent people who reside on a former island paradise; they are determined to create sustainable quality of life. The other, camping in a Costco warehouse on the nearby mainland, a ruthless tribe of organized raiders who will stop at nothing to provide for their own.
Not only must they endure hardships and hunger in their ravaged world, fate seems hell bent to crush them all as a monster hurricane seethes in the Atlantic.
Fans of Stephen King’s “The Stand” will love these novels. Intricately plotted, superbly paced, and brought to life by fully-developed protagonists, quirky supporting characters (some you will recognize from the previous books), and charming villains, the Troop of Shadows Chronicles is a tour de force. It is the unfolding story of the greatest threat humanity has ever faced, and is populated with some of the most entertaining people you will ever meet.
Book Club Discussion Questions
Engaging Discussions: Unlocking the Power of Book Club Discussion Questions
Introduction
Book clubs have long been cherished as spaces for literary enthusiasts to gather, share their thoughts, and immerse themselves in the magic of books. However, what elevates a book club from a casual gathering to a stimulating intellectual exchange is the quality of the discussion (and maybe the wine helps too). Effective book club discussion questions are the key to ensuring a deep and meaningful exploration of the themes, characters, and ideas within a book. In this article, we will explore the art of crafting these questions and provide a list of thought-provoking inquiries to enhance your book club experience.
The Importance of Book Club Discussion Questions
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Fostering Engagement: Well-crafted questions can draw readers in and encourage participation in the discussion.
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Promoting Critical Thinking: Thoughtful questions challenge readers to analyze the book’s content, themes, and characters more deeply.
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Encouraging Diverse Perspectives: Effective questions can lead to a variety of interpretations and viewpoints, making the discussion richer and more engaging. Sometimes we forget, there are no wrong opinions.
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Strengthening Comprehension: Discussion questions help clarify any confusing or ambiguous elements in the book, improving the overall understanding.
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Building a Sense of Community: Book clubs thrive when members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions, and discussion questions can facilitate this.
Crafting Effective Book Club Discussion Questions
When creating discussion questions for your book club, keep the following principles in mind:
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Open-Endedness: Questions should be open-ended, encouraging multiple interpretations and fostering in-depth discussion. Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.”
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Connect to Themes: Ensure that your questions relate to the book’s major themes, character development, and plot elements.
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Consider Diverse Perspectives: Frame questions that allow for diverse interpretations and encourage members to share their unique viewpoints.
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Balance Plot and Character: Cover both the plot and character development in your questions to provide a well-rounded discussion.
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Engage Emotions: Include questions that explore the emotional impact of the book. Ask about personal connections and reactions.
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Avoid Spoilers: Be mindful of members who may not have finished the book. Keep the discussion spoiler-free or designate a separate time for discussing major plot twists.
Sample Book Club Discussion Questions
Here is a selection of book club discussion questions for your consideration. These questions can be adapted for a variety of books and genres:
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Character Development: How do the main characters evolve throughout the story? Do you find their transformations believable? Why or why not?
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Themes and Symbols: What are the central themes of the book, and how are they symbolically represented? Can you identify any recurring motifs or symbols?
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Narrative Style: How does the author’s choice of narration affect your reading experience? Did the first-person or third-person perspective enhance your connection with the characters?
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Moral Dilemmas: Were there any moral dilemmas or ethical questions raised by the story that left you contemplating your own values?
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Setting: How does the setting contribute to the mood and atmosphere of the story? Can you imagine the events taking place in a different setting?
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Author’s Intent: What do you think the author was trying to convey with this book? How did the narrative choices serve the story’s purpose?
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Character Relationships: Analyze the relationships between different characters. How did these connections shape the plot and character arcs?
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Unresolved Questions: Were there any unresolved storylines or unanswered questions that left you wanting more? How did they impact your reading experience?
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Real-World Connections: Can you draw parallels between events or characters in the book and real-world issues or experiences?
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Overall Impression: Summarize your overall impression of the book in a single word or sentence. How did the book affect you personally?
Conclusion
The beauty of book clubs lies in the diversity of thought and the depth of discussion they offer. Crafting meaningful book club discussion questions is the key to unlocking this potential. By engaging members in thoughtful exploration of the books they read, you can enhance the reading experience, encourage diverse perspectives, and create a vibrant literary community. Happy reading and discussing!
Dead Leaves, Dark Corners
Dead Leaves, Dark Corners
There are no zombies here!
But lurking within the pages of this creepy anthology is every other type of ghoulish creature a horror enthusiast could want.
Do you love monsters? We have plenty.
Are demons your thing? You have your choice of the amusing type or the kind that will make you go insane.
Men in Black? Check.
Cannibals? Yep.
Serial killers? We got ‘em.
There’s even a witch thrown in for good measure.
The settings in this collection range from a decaying urban city to a sinister lighthouse island…from an isolated forest to a decrepit gas station in the Arizona desert…from a suburban kitchen to a Walmart parking lot.
What good thing ever happened in a Walmart parking lot?
MONSTERS: Will Sloan Darkblade save humankind from an insidious invasion? ROAD KILL: Two men meet in the desert, and they both have a story to tell.
FERAL: A future dystopian society can’t contain their pest problem.
BURDENS: The consequences of ugly words seen through the eyes of a child.
DUDES: Whiskey shots and a harmless game. What could go wrong?
TOIL AND TROUBLE: An homage to Mother Nature and Halloween.
PREDATORS: A serial killer’s luck was bound to run out. A GOOD HOST: Teenage girls can exhibit horrible behavior…now we know why.
POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE: An obsession with fried food may be harmful to one’s health. ANCESTRY: You might think twice before spitting into that DNA test tube.
THE BUNKER: A modern retelling of an Edgar Allan Poe classic.
WYVERN: Flying beasts make for a good story…if you survive to tell the tale.
DECISIONS, DECISIONS: The ripples of insignificant decisions can transform into tsunamis.
THE LIGHTHOUSE: A NOVELETTE: Would you spend sixty days alone on an uninhabited lighthouse island with no electricity, no comfortable accommodations, and no contact (at least of the human variety) with the outside world? Here’s one man’s story.
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