Tuesday, April 9, 2019

Sir E. Robert Smythe and the School Bully

Sir E. Robert Smythe and the School Bully

Christina Weigand and Ricci Moore






Nathan and Paul have a bully problem. Billy, the school bully, has chosen them to be the target of his aggression. Paul along with Sir E. Robert Smythe of the Galactic Safety Council discovers the root of Billy’s issues and strives to convince the bully to change his ways.
When Billy runs away from home, Paul goes after him. Billy’s dad, the cause of Billy’s anger, finds the boys and threatens them. They are rescued but not before each are injured and Billy’s dad escapes.
During their recovery they learn more about each other and face Billy’s dad once again. Can they overcome their differences and confront the bullying going on in their school in before someone gets seriously hurt?




Excerpt



Paul plopped on his bed and stared at the computer screen. Mom had grounded him and said no computer time, except for homework, for a week.
     He tried to explain what had happened without ratting out Billy, but hadn’t been successful. He didn’t know how long he could keep this up. Sooner or later something was going to have to change. “I wish there was someone I could talk to about this,” Paul said out loud to no one, “but mom said no computer time so I can’t even call Nathan.”
     While brushing his teeth he thought about the great uneaten lunch mom packed, and the paper airplane Billy threw. He didn’t even see what was on the note before Mrs. Chrinshaw took it from him. It wasn’t until he was in Ms. Harris’s office that he got a glance at it and saw the monster that Billy had drawn. He had to admit Billy was a pretty good artist and wished he could draw like that. The only thing he could do well was run fast, and climb trees. There wasn’t much chance to use those skills in school, unless running away from Billy counted.
     Well no use worrying about it now. He might as well try and get some sleep. Paul pulled the blanket over his head and switched on the flashlight he had under the pillow. Grabbing the book he was reading for school, A Neverending Story, he finished a chapter before falling asleep.
     The bed shook and a bright flash of light startled him awake. The book fell to the floor as he threw his blanket off. Sitting on the foot of his bed was a creature unlike anything he had ever seen. Paul wasn’t sure whether to be afraid or brave. The purple and lime green creature had the head of the family’s Saint Bernard, the body of a large jack rabbit and the tail of a lion. A bowler hat sat on his round head and a monocle graced his one eye. He wore an orange vest with a chain and watch attached to it. In his hand he held a jade blue parasol.
     “You asked for someone to talk to,” the creature said in a proper British accent.
     “I did? Oh yeah, I guess I did. But what…who are you?”
     “Quit blubbering, Paul, we don’t have much time.”
     “You know my name? Who are you?”
     “Of course I know your name. As to who I am, Sir E. Robert Smythe, Senior Safety Ambassador for the Galactic Safety Council, at your service. You may call me Sir E. Robert. I have come from the planet of Gwill. Queen Sage realized you were in trouble and sent me to aid you. Now tell me about your problems.”
     Paul proceeded to explain everything that happened. When he finished, the creature sat on the bed in silence for several seconds and Paul began to wonder if this was real. He pinched himself. “Ow, that hurt.”
     “Of course it did. Why would you hurt yourself?”
     “I thought maybe I was dreaming.”
     “This isn’t a dream. Humans can be so obtuse at times. Now be quiet while I think.” They sat on the bed a few more moments and the creature started to talk. “We seem to have a twofold problem here. First, this Billy person has some anger issues. We have to discover the source of his angst and then we can better confront what is bothering him and put an end to his torturing you. Second, I sense that Morton the Morph has a hand in this and Queen Sage will need to be notified posthaste, before we can begin to solve the problem.”
     Before Paul could respond there was a flash of light and the creature disappeared.
     “Hey, wait! Where did you go? I still have questions.”
     A voice echoed in his room. “I will be there when you need me.”
     Paul punched his pillow and pinched his arm again. “Not a dream. Not much help either.”

     The next morning, he met Nathan and they walked to school together. Paul told Nathan about his dream, or at least what he thought was a dream. He still didn’t believe that Sir E. Robert Smythe had been real, even though he had felt the pain of both pinches to himself.
     “Yeah, probably a dream.” Nathan voiced his doubts. “But sounds like a cool dream. I hope it was real. That would be totally cool.”
     “I guess so,” Paul said as they walked up to the school. “What am I going to do about Billy?”
     “Let’s get in the school before he gets here.” They headed toward the door and saw an old, beat up extended cab pick-up pull into the driveway. A grizzled, middle-aged man drove. Billy sat with him in the front seat and a small woman occupied the rear seat. The man was yelling and smacking Billy’s head. The passenger side door opened and Billy jumped out of the truck before it could speed away.
     The bully ran toward the door, noticing Nathan and Paul standing there. He pushed Nathan out of his way. “What are you looking at, squinty eye?”
     “Nothing. I didn’t…see anything,” Nathan answered.
     “Good thing. Now get out of my way.” He pushed Nathan again and stormed into the school.
     “Wow, did you see that?”
     “Yeah, that guy was really beating on Billy. Do you think that was his dad?” Nathan said.
     “Not sure. I’ve never seen his dad. I didn’t even know he had a dad.”
     Nathan shrugged his shoulders. “Don’t be silly, everyone has a dad.”
     “I know, I just never heard him talk about his family.”
     The two boys walked into the school. Billy and his gang left them alone for the day, but Paul still wasn’t happy. He had detention today because of what Billy did yesterday.



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Saturday, April 6, 2019

Life in the OAG Gang

Active Member Appreciation Weekend

The OAG gang has a small corner on Facebook where we exchange ideas and help each other with publishing and book promotion. Just as in many other group, we have active members and others who read the posts once in a while. And then a small group of members who read posts but stay in the background and never comment on posts or offer help to others.

We dedicate this weekend to the most active members who take a few minutes almost every day, read and share blog posts, interact with others, and help others with useful advice or just share the book promo posts to spread the news about other group members' books.

I tagged the most active members in a post in our Facebook group and asked them to introduce themselves and add their author links.


Click on the link below to read a little bit about the most active members in the comments of the post:
Please share the Facebook post, or this blog posts, on your social sites.
Let your friends know about this wonderful group of authors.

A few of the OAG group authors participated in a group video recently, enjoy meeting a group of writers from around the world on this page:https://www.authorerikamszabo.com/oag.html

   
Visit our Facebook group. We welcome writers, readers, and publishing service providers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OurAuthorGang/

Video credit: the video designed by author Erika M Szabo at: https://www.goldenboxbooks.com/video-design.html

Watch the videos in our contest and vote for the best videos:


Friday, April 5, 2019

About the meaning of happiness


Certainly, we all have in mind what makes us happy, and perhaps we are working towards a steady direction in our lives towards that goal: happiness.

Nevertheless, today my husband shared with me a post about the world and the real meaning of happiness. The post was actually a page of the book of Matt Haig “Reasons to stay alive.”
Here is a quote from that book shared on Goodreads:

“THE WORLD is increasingly designed to depress us. Happiness isn’t very good for the economy. If we were happy with what we had, why would we need more? How do you sell an anti-ageing moisturiser? You make someone worry about ageing. How do you get people to vote for a political party? You make them worry about immigration. How do you get them to buy insurance? By making them worry about everything. How do you get them to have plastic surgery? By highlighting their physical flaws. How do you get them to watch a TV show? By making them worry about missing out. How do you get them to buy a new smartphone? By making them feel like they are being left behind. To be calm becomes a kind of revolutionary act. To be happy with your own non-upgraded existence. To be comfortable with our messy, human selves, would not be good for business.”

I agree one hundred percent with the statements above, each of them is spot on, but instead of the word “World” I would perhaps use the word “Society.”
The world is not doing anything against people, the world is there and watches us hurting each other, trying to prevail over each other. Society is what we have been building, and that is what makes us unhappy.

I have to say that if everybody were like me, the economy, as we know it, would just collapse, as I live for one simple thing, enjoying the nature and life, and those activities are all free (or almost).

Despite this, I think that most of the people really fall into the trap of what society is expecting from them or what they think it expects from them. With this, they are falsely brought to believe that buying one object, wearing a certain dress, owning a certain car, living in a certain area will make them accepted. The reality is that unless people do not love themselves, accept themselves and start living confidently with themselves, they won’t be loved, accepted, and trusted by anybody else.

I guess that the real secret lies in looking inside ourselves and get to know our inner nature, that little stranger that is inside us, to which we never really talked for long enough.
I admit it that perhaps I also talk too much with myself, and that little stranger is no stranger after all. A personal suggestion is just to live the way each of us wants and forget about what everyone else says. 

Do whatever you want, and never harm anyone.

With that in mind, what can possibly go wrong?

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Moonlight Mist

Rebecca Tran

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love all things fantasy and science fiction. Mix in a little romance and you've got me hooked. When I decided to write a stand alone romance for an anthology that I am part of, Moonlight MistI stepped away from shifters and turned to Ireland for inspiration. More specifically the fae and Tir Na Nog, or Underhill as most know it, were my muse. Who could resist beautiful creatures and a land of magic? Certainly not me. The result was my newest title Honor Bound.



Blurb
Liam is bored with everyday life in Underhill, the home of the Fae. When you’ve lived as long as he has few things hold any excitement anymore. When a mortal woman stumbles into Underhill all of that changes. She captivates him like none have in ages. Now Liam will stop at nothing to find her and make the mortal his. How far will he go to get what he wants?

Hallie O’Neil thinks she has it all figured out. She has a great career, serious boyfriend, and perfect New York apartment. Everything changes when an Irish Adonis walks into her work one afternoon. As hard as Hallie tries to fight it, Liam insists on inserting himself into her life. There’s something different about Liam that Hallie can’t figure out. Can she discover the truth before she’s in too deep?

Excerpt
    Faolin gave Hallie her own room while she was visiting his Uncle’s home. He didn’t want to presume too much. It wasn’t surprising though when she slipped into his room after the house quieted down. Hallie always had a way of lighting his fire. After months apart though her touch was like an inferno. He hated having to return to Underhill even for that short amount of time. Being away from her was torture. 
    All of Faolin’s attention was focused on Hallie that night. He lavished every affection on her. Faolin brought her to the brink of ecstasy over and over before they both tumbled over the edge together. Hallie lay in his arms afterward content and beautiful. Faolin brushed the stray hairs from her cheek enjoying the fleeting moment. 
    With a slight growl of frustration, Faolin eased out of bed. He pulled on his pants and went downstairs. His aunt and uncle would still be awake. He found them in the library by the fire enjoying a glass of wine. His aunt studied him a moment, however, it was his uncle who spoke. 
      “I’m glad to hear the mortal pleases you.” His uncle smiled half laughing.
       Faolin knew it meant they heard at least part of their lovemaking. At the moment he didn’t care.         “She pleases me more than any woman has in centuries, uncle.”
       His uncle stopped smiling, and his aunt set down her wine. “Can it be true?” his aunt asked studying him. 
     “Faolin I forbid…” His uncle started. 
     “Don’t, I beg you. When is the last time I asked anything of you?” Faolin asked his uncle. 
      His uncle snarled, “At least 300 years.” He let out a heavy breath. “It’s too soon Faolin.”
     “At least grant me permission to pursue it.” Faolin offered his hand.
     “You know the rules.” His uncle warned.
     “Better than anyone” his aunt volunteered.
      His uncle took Faolin’s hand “Agreed. I Faolin of Underhill swear that I will abide by the rules while pursuing Hallie O'Neil.” 
     “Honor and Magic bind thee.”  His uncle said formally. Faolin felt the magic sweep over him. There was no going back now. 

Honor Bound is part of a paranormal romance anthology Moonlight Mist written by many talented independent authors. It is available on AmazonKoboBarnes & Noble, and other fine retailers.






I am a mother, pharmacist, and author. I love all things fantasy and science fiction. It should come as no surprise then when I say I write fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal romance. I've also tried my hand at horror once or twice. I enjoy watching anime and romance movies. Currently I am working my way through Naruto Shippuden. Summer is coming and school is ending which means I'll spend more time at home with my kids than at work thanks to PTO. If you read my bios or my blog I'll keep you posted on our travels. If you want to find out more about me check out my website, or you can find my books on my store.

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Wednesday, April 3, 2019

Beatrix Potter: Illustrator, Writer, Natural Scientist and Conservationist



Beatrix Potter: Illustrator, Writer, Natural Scientist and Conservationist


Christina Weigand


Before I leave the Inklings I wanted to take a look at an author that inspired C.S. Lewis. I also realized that throughout this series I have not explored any women authors, so this is my first in the series about a woman author. I hope to include more women going forward. Now onto Beatrix Potter.



Helen Beatrix Potter was born July 28, 1866 and died December 22, 1943 to Rupert and Helen Potter in Southwest London.  Potter and her younger brother Walter Bertram Potter had few friends outside of their large extended family. They had numerous animals as pets which they observed, drew and studied. Beatrix would even take her pets with her on long holidays. Along with the study of animals she studied and drew nature.

During her teen years  she was known to collect fossils, and  study archaeological artifacts from London excavations. She also developed an interest in entomology. She would draw and paint her specimens and became quite accomplished at it. Eventually her scientific interests became centered on mycology (the study of fungi). She was fascinated with their colors and ephemerality, and delighted in painting them.

By Beatrix Potter - Armitt Museum and Library, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=60072281


She explored and developed a theory on fungi germination. When
she wanted to present it to fellow botanists she was rebuffed because of her sex and amateur status. She submitted her paper to the Linnean Society, a group dedicated to the study and dissemination of information concerning natural history, evolution and taxonomy. It was introduced by a man because a woman could not attend the proceedings or read her paper. Later she withdrew the paper, because of contaminated samples. Many of her paintings and scientific drawings can be seen in museums and art galleries.

Her artistic and literary interests were influenced by fairy tales and fantasy. Stories from the Old Testament as well as Lewis Carroll’s, Alice in Wonderland were counted among her many inspirations. Exhibitions at art galleries fed her talents and developed her critical skills.

To earn money she and her brother printed Christmas cards of their own design. Mice and rabbits were the most frequent subjects of the cards and her fantasy paintings. Several of her drawings were purchased to use as illustrations for verses by Frederic Weatherly titled A Happy Pair. Several more were purchased for another of his books. The next year frog illustrations were sold for another publication and she decided she wanted to publish her own illustrated stories.

When Potter was on holiday she would send letters to young friends that included quick sketches. When she ran out of stories to share with her young friends four little rabbits named, Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail and Peter were born.


Later she revised the tale and made it into a book. When she couldn’t find a publisher she published it for friends and family at her own expense. The book was later picked up by the same publisher that had rejected it and she agreed to color her pen and ink illustrations. Potter continued to write until after WWI when her attentions shifted to farming, sheep breeding and land conservation.








She patented a Peter Rabbit doll as well as other spin off merchandise which earned Potter and independent income and immense profits for her publisher.







Potter began to use her income and a small inheritance to purchase Hill Top Farm. The tenant farmer agreed to stay on and manage the farm while she made improvements and learned the techniques of fell farming and raising livestock. She continued to buy contiguous properties and became involved in village life.

She married her solicitor in 1913 and continued to manage her evergrowing farms. She introduced  Herdwick sheep (an indigenous fell sheep) and became one of the largest Herdwick sheep farmers in the county.

Her conservation projects helped preserve farms and fell farming and gained her wide regard.



She continued to write and draw, although it was mostly for her own enjoyment. Her later books included the semi-autobiographical The Fairy Caravan and Sister Anne, ( a tale of Bluebeard).









When she died she left over 4000 acres of land, sixteen farms, cottages, and herds of cattle and Herdwick sheep to the National Trust. Most of the original illustrations for her books were also left to the National Trust. Copyrights were left to her publisher. Her artwork is displayed in her husband’s former law offices known as the Beatrix Potter Gallery. Scientific drawings went to Armitt Library and Museum. Public collections of her letters and  drawings can be seen in museums around the world.




Photo Credits:

 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Beatrix-Potter/e/B006XVP5O6

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beatrix_Potter




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Monday, April 1, 2019

Vote for the Best Bookish Video

The winners will be announced April 15

The voting poll is closed and the winners will be announced April 15.
The videos entered in the contest
The winners will be announced April 15
The authors are constantly trying to improve their marketing material and appreciate your opinion.  Tell them in comments what you like and what needs a little improvement.

The Ancestors' Secrets Trilogy



Midnight Black - the Purge
https://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Black-Purge-Robert-Emery/dp/0578433036/



  The Cursed Girl
https://www.amazon.com/Cursed-Girl-Maria-Vermisoglou-ebook/dp/B07BV423FK/



Heroes Never Fade
https://www.amazon.com/Heroes-Never-Fade-Maxilla-Book-ebook/dp/B06XYS1RBX/



  Chaos of Souls
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P7Y6W7N/



Amanda in New Mexico Ghosts in the Wind
https://www.amazon.com/Amanda-New-Mexico-Ghosts-Travels-ebook/dp/B01MT8LXAR/


Ethereal Custody: Anthologies
http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/CreatorAllanvre

  

Fall River Rancher...Lonely too long
https://www.amazon.com/Fall-River-Rancher-Lonely-Long-ebook/dp/B073Z9NJ1D/

  
Artesans of Albia
https://www.amazon.com/Kings-Envoy-Artesans-Albia-trilogy-ebook/dp/B00FLXRW4I/



Palace of the Three Crosses
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FAPW43G

  

Sanctuary of Nine Dragons
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IA4UWK6/



QUEST
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NNZJ2J1

 

Rarity from the Hollow
https://www.amazon.com/Rarity-Hollow-Lacy-Dawn-Adventure-ebook/dp/B07D1F779T/

 


 Jonathan's Locket
https://www.amazon.com/Jonathans-Locket-Lorraine-Carey-ebook/dp/B00K7O7M50/

 


OAG
A group of authors from around the world
https://www.authorerikamszabo.com/oag.html


Cursed Bloodline



The winners will be announced April 15

The authors are constantly trying to improve their marketing material and appreciate your opinion. 
Tell them in comments what you like and what needs a little improvement.

The books & authors in the contest














THE AUTHORS

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Sunday, March 31, 2019

Why Women Live Longer Than Men?

Gentlemen, no pun intended.
Enjoy the videos and stay safe!

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