A.F. Stewart's Blog, page 46
June 14, 2017
Drabble Wednesday: The Silent Bride
Today on Drabble Wednesday, a story in three parts as we walk down a terrifying aisle into a strange world of repression and anarchy...
Obedience
He signed the contract with a shaking hand. Finally to be wed at five and twenty. Most gentlemen his age had several matrimonial years under their belt, plus heirs. And here he must resort to a disreputable matchmaking service.Quite the ignominy for his noble house.“Are you certain she’ll be as I requested? Properly compliant?”“Yes sir. She’ll never talk back to you.”“Bring her in then.”The ringing of a small bell ushered in his bride-to-be.“Smile for your betrothed, girl.”She did as bid, her mouth opening wide enough to show where they cut out her tongue.
~*~
Wedding Night
“She won’t say a word. Can’t, milord.” The constable cast his eyes downward in apology. “She’s mute. One of those brides from Conformist Matchmaking.”“So, he went through with it. Now dead on his wedding night.” He strode to the woman sitting quietly in a corner, avoiding the corpse on the bed.He knelt down, whispering. “You’ll hang for his murder.”She smiled, her tongueless mouth in a gaping grin. She held up a bloodied left hand and slipped a dagger from beneath her skirt. In one quick motion she stabbed, and the grand Lord joined his son in death.
~*~
Revolution
The boy at the newsstand held up the latest edition, and screamed out the headlines to attract customers, “Conformist Bride Killer linked to Death Cult! Killing of Lord Everett and his son one of several dozen murders! Conformist Matchmaking under investigation!”Nearby, two women listened, the older one whispering to her companion. “Our soldiers succeeded admirably. We achieved victory.”“At a cost. Those women will hang.”“Some will. Others...” She shrugged. “But many more were never detected. All the key men are dead. No one suspects our revolution. By year’s end the kingdom will be ours, and women will rule.”
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
Obedience
He signed the contract with a shaking hand. Finally to be wed at five and twenty. Most gentlemen his age had several matrimonial years under their belt, plus heirs. And here he must resort to a disreputable matchmaking service.Quite the ignominy for his noble house.“Are you certain she’ll be as I requested? Properly compliant?”“Yes sir. She’ll never talk back to you.”“Bring her in then.”The ringing of a small bell ushered in his bride-to-be.“Smile for your betrothed, girl.”She did as bid, her mouth opening wide enough to show where they cut out her tongue.
~*~
Wedding Night
“She won’t say a word. Can’t, milord.” The constable cast his eyes downward in apology. “She’s mute. One of those brides from Conformist Matchmaking.”“So, he went through with it. Now dead on his wedding night.” He strode to the woman sitting quietly in a corner, avoiding the corpse on the bed.He knelt down, whispering. “You’ll hang for his murder.”She smiled, her tongueless mouth in a gaping grin. She held up a bloodied left hand and slipped a dagger from beneath her skirt. In one quick motion she stabbed, and the grand Lord joined his son in death.
~*~
Revolution
The boy at the newsstand held up the latest edition, and screamed out the headlines to attract customers, “Conformist Bride Killer linked to Death Cult! Killing of Lord Everett and his son one of several dozen murders! Conformist Matchmaking under investigation!”Nearby, two women listened, the older one whispering to her companion. “Our soldiers succeeded admirably. We achieved victory.”“At a cost. Those women will hang.”“Some will. Others...” She shrugged. “But many more were never detected. All the key men are dead. No one suspects our revolution. By year’s end the kingdom will be ours, and women will rule.”
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
June 10, 2017
Book Spotlight: Wages of Sin: Blood, Sweat, and Tears
Today I bring to book spotlight on the horror/paranormal novel Wages of Sin: Blood, Sweat, and Tears by Laurencia Hoffman (and Sophie Smith). This is the third book in the Wages of Sin series.
Wages of Sin: Blood, Sweat, and Tears by Laurencia Hoffman and Sophie Smith
Time is running out for Izzy with Darien breathing down her neck, and she is convinced that she will live out the remainder of her days in misery. Yet, in her despair, she finds hope and love. But those things are difficult to keep for anyone with the surname of Auckley.
When Melina becomes impregnated with the child of a vampire – something that was thought to be impossible – those around her know that she is in grave danger. A foe from long ago resurfaces to stake his claim, not only on Melina but her unborn child as well.
While Blake struggles with the reality of Melina's predicament, new revelations, old secrets, and fresh betrayals unfold before their very eyes.
Wages of Sin: Blood, Sweat, and Tears is available on Amazon
Book Trailer
Author Bio:
Laurencia Hoffman is the author of Casting Stones, Bittersweet, A Wish for Remembrance, Life and Death, No Love Lost, Star Crossed: Worlds Apart (published under her legal name: Jolene Poole), and co-author of The Wages of Sin series.Laurencia lives with her family in Michigan. When she's not writing she also enjoys making her own line of natural products, satisfying her sweet tooth, and watching films.
For more on her books, check out her Amazon Page
Wages of Sin: Blood, Sweat, and Tears by Laurencia Hoffman and Sophie Smith
Time is running out for Izzy with Darien breathing down her neck, and she is convinced that she will live out the remainder of her days in misery. Yet, in her despair, she finds hope and love. But those things are difficult to keep for anyone with the surname of Auckley.
When Melina becomes impregnated with the child of a vampire – something that was thought to be impossible – those around her know that she is in grave danger. A foe from long ago resurfaces to stake his claim, not only on Melina but her unborn child as well.
While Blake struggles with the reality of Melina's predicament, new revelations, old secrets, and fresh betrayals unfold before their very eyes.
Wages of Sin: Blood, Sweat, and Tears is available on Amazon
Book Trailer
Author Bio:
Laurencia Hoffman is the author of Casting Stones, Bittersweet, A Wish for Remembrance, Life and Death, No Love Lost, Star Crossed: Worlds Apart (published under her legal name: Jolene Poole), and co-author of The Wages of Sin series.Laurencia lives with her family in Michigan. When she's not writing she also enjoys making her own line of natural products, satisfying her sweet tooth, and watching films.
For more on her books, check out her Amazon Page
June 7, 2017
Drabble Wednesday: Ashen
Today on Drabble Wednesday, come explore the world of the pale, the cold, the stark and white...
The Pale Tree
It stood apart from the rest of the grove, growing tall from a small hummock. The rough bark of the tree glinted snow white with streaks of silver, its branches bare save for one month a year when it sprouted greyish buds. The only colour it showed came from a green vine twining around its trunk, and even it bloomed flowers of white in season.Underneath the tree, entangled in its roots rested another layer of white. Slowly seeping into soil, nurturing it, those rotted corpses and bones of the poor victims buried alive.Sacrifices.To the Tree of Death.
~*~
Under the Frozen Earth
The sun sets on silence, and a vast frozen wasteland. No wind blows, no birds fly, not a sound breaks the settling of dusk on the world. Only the cold, the snow, and the deep frozen expanse that ever tightens its grip exist.The cold and frost run deep. Down, down to the Old World, the world that once existed. A place of faraway dreams and summer. A realm that died in its own hubris, swallowed by the endless winter. A domain that yet whispers, locked in its prison of ice. Where the dead stare upward, frozen in their screams.
~*~
White Petals and Lace
Remains of the past.One white rose and a scrap of ivory-coloured lace.Resting next to a small silver box.The pale kitchen curtains flutter in the breeze, and the sweet smell of summer grasses wafts through the window. If you listen, you can almost hear the laughter drifting across time. When the family gathered for picnics in the yard, when the aroma of potato salad and mayonnaise filled the room.But those days are long gone.Only the dead are left, with the last body now crumpled on the kitchen tile.The poison from the silver box works quickly.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
The Pale Tree
It stood apart from the rest of the grove, growing tall from a small hummock. The rough bark of the tree glinted snow white with streaks of silver, its branches bare save for one month a year when it sprouted greyish buds. The only colour it showed came from a green vine twining around its trunk, and even it bloomed flowers of white in season.Underneath the tree, entangled in its roots rested another layer of white. Slowly seeping into soil, nurturing it, those rotted corpses and bones of the poor victims buried alive.Sacrifices.To the Tree of Death.
~*~
Under the Frozen Earth
The sun sets on silence, and a vast frozen wasteland. No wind blows, no birds fly, not a sound breaks the settling of dusk on the world. Only the cold, the snow, and the deep frozen expanse that ever tightens its grip exist.The cold and frost run deep. Down, down to the Old World, the world that once existed. A place of faraway dreams and summer. A realm that died in its own hubris, swallowed by the endless winter. A domain that yet whispers, locked in its prison of ice. Where the dead stare upward, frozen in their screams.
~*~
White Petals and Lace
Remains of the past.One white rose and a scrap of ivory-coloured lace.Resting next to a small silver box.The pale kitchen curtains flutter in the breeze, and the sweet smell of summer grasses wafts through the window. If you listen, you can almost hear the laughter drifting across time. When the family gathered for picnics in the yard, when the aroma of potato salad and mayonnaise filled the room.But those days are long gone.Only the dead are left, with the last body now crumpled on the kitchen tile.The poison from the silver box works quickly.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
May 31, 2017
Drabble Wednesday: Freaky Fan Fiction
Something different this week for Drabble Wednesday, a little nonsense, a little snark, a little fun with cartoons and sparkly vampires...
Acme Holiday
On an ordinary moonlit night, with the stars shining, night settles over a nondescript laboratory in the middle of an unnamed city.Inside, tiny voices can be heard...
“What are we going to do tonight, Brain?”“The same thing we—no.” There is a long pause. “I’m tired of this rat race, Pinky. The same thing night after night. We’re going on vacation!”“Ooooh, Brain. Narf!”“Narf indeed. Are you thinking what I’m thinking, Pinky?”“I believe so, Brain. But where would we get the purple frilly tutus to wear on the teacup ride at Disneyworld?”“To the closet, Pinky!”
~*~
The Truth About Manfredi and Johnson
Amidst sparks and the smell of fish, came the question...“Are they ready, Kowalski?”“Aye, aye, Skipper. Project Agent Clones is a go!”
Two years later...“That’s the last of them, Skipper. The last of the clones are dead.”“A moment of silence, boys, for the fallen. Manfredi and Johnson. The end of their line. Good soldiers, one and all.”A hush fell, before Skipper continued, “A true tragedy, but really who could’ve predicted it. Struck down by a rogue herd of buffalo.”“I believe it was bison, Skipper.”“Really? I could’ve sworn it was buffalo.”“No, it was bison.”
~*~
End of Twilight
Black scars and broken glass marred a once beautiful house, with its landscape razed to resemble a war zone. Over the trees rose smoke and an acrid smell wafted off the smouldering piles of ashes and corpses.Across this recent battle ground gathered the victorious army, bloodied and weary. A lone soldier bowed to the commander.“They are all dead, Count Dracula. Bella, Edward, their ridiculously named daughter, even the werewolves.”“Good. Then the war is over! Those mutated abominations have been vanquished! True vampire kind has finally prevailed!”A cheer rose with the smoke of the enemy's funeral pyres.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
Acme Holiday
On an ordinary moonlit night, with the stars shining, night settles over a nondescript laboratory in the middle of an unnamed city.Inside, tiny voices can be heard...
“What are we going to do tonight, Brain?”“The same thing we—no.” There is a long pause. “I’m tired of this rat race, Pinky. The same thing night after night. We’re going on vacation!”“Ooooh, Brain. Narf!”“Narf indeed. Are you thinking what I’m thinking, Pinky?”“I believe so, Brain. But where would we get the purple frilly tutus to wear on the teacup ride at Disneyworld?”“To the closet, Pinky!”
~*~
The Truth About Manfredi and Johnson
Amidst sparks and the smell of fish, came the question...“Are they ready, Kowalski?”“Aye, aye, Skipper. Project Agent Clones is a go!”
Two years later...“That’s the last of them, Skipper. The last of the clones are dead.”“A moment of silence, boys, for the fallen. Manfredi and Johnson. The end of their line. Good soldiers, one and all.”A hush fell, before Skipper continued, “A true tragedy, but really who could’ve predicted it. Struck down by a rogue herd of buffalo.”“I believe it was bison, Skipper.”“Really? I could’ve sworn it was buffalo.”“No, it was bison.”
~*~
End of Twilight
Black scars and broken glass marred a once beautiful house, with its landscape razed to resemble a war zone. Over the trees rose smoke and an acrid smell wafted off the smouldering piles of ashes and corpses.Across this recent battle ground gathered the victorious army, bloodied and weary. A lone soldier bowed to the commander.“They are all dead, Count Dracula. Bella, Edward, their ridiculously named daughter, even the werewolves.”“Good. Then the war is over! Those mutated abominations have been vanquished! True vampire kind has finally prevailed!”A cheer rose with the smoke of the enemy's funeral pyres.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
May 30, 2017
Interview With Author Glenn McGoldrick
Today I have a great interview with horror and thriller author Glenn McGoldrick. He stops by to chat about writing and his short story collections. Enjoy.
Interview With Author Glenn McGoldrick
Why don’t you begin by sharing a little about yourself.
English was my favourite lesson during my school days, and I always enjoyed writing stories.Then I grew up and worked in Casinos for twenty years, and spent fifteen of those years travelling on cruise ships.Leaving ships in 2011, I now live in the North East of England. When I’m not busy writing, I enjoy music, movies, beach walks and beer.
How long have you been writing, and how many books have you published to date?
I have been writing for four years. I have published two collections of short stories, available on Amazon.
What did you hope to accomplish by publishing your book?
In February 2017 I published a collection of some of my stories on Amazon Kindle. Researched for a couple of months, did all the work, even the cover photo. I wanted to be able to say that I’d done absolutely every part of the process myself. It turned out quite well, I think; it was stressful at times, but very rewarding, and it’s great to see my book on Amazon. Then I went and did it all again with my second collection!
When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?
I enjoyed writing stories as a young kid at school. Then I grew up, had a career and did some travelling. I saved some money, took some time off and thought about what I really wanted to do in life.I’d always enjoyed reading, and I read some books about writing professionally. Then I took a writing course, wrote some stories of my own and enjoyed it. Then I just carried on writing stories, hoping to improve a little each time. And I still like to read a lot.
Can you tell us about your writing process? Where do your ideas originate? Do you have a certain writing routine?
I get lots of ideas from newspaper articles. I expand the original idea, work on it for three or four days, ending up with lots of notes on paper. Then when I’ve got most of the story figured out, I’ll get to my laptop, start typing it up, breaking it down by scene, in random order. I usually find that the first and last scenes are the easiest ones for me.
What is your greatest challenge as a writer?
Finding the time to write. Or, setting aside the other stuff, everyday stuff, all the little mundane jobs that need attending to – sometimes it’s a challenge to put it all out of my mind, leaving me able to focus exclusively on writing.
Do you have a favourite author, or writing inspiration?
I’m an avid reader, particularly enjoying James Lee Burke (Robicheaux series), Robert B Parker (Spenser series) and Lawrence Block (Scudder series).I usually bookmark my favourite passages from their books, then revisit them later, hoping to soak up some of their skills!
What advice would you give beginning writers?
Just sit down and write. Never mind the laundry, or making a snack, or going for a bike ride – sit your butt down and write. There’ll always be other stuff to do, so get to it after you write.
What do you like to do when you're not writing? Any hobbies?
I like movies and music, and I’m very interested in politics. I’m out on my bicycle most days, and I like going for walks in the country. And you can’t beat sitting by the sea, drinking coffee and reading the newspaper!
Glenn McGoldrick's books are available on Amazon:
Nightmare Waiting
Little Dramas
Glenn McGoldrick worked in casinos for 20 years, and 15 of those 20 years were spent on cruise ships, seeing the world. He's now settled back home, in the Northeast of England. He writes in the horror/thriller genre.
For more on the author check out his Website.
You can also find him on Twitter: @G_T_McGoldrick
Interview With Author Glenn McGoldrick
Why don’t you begin by sharing a little about yourself.English was my favourite lesson during my school days, and I always enjoyed writing stories.Then I grew up and worked in Casinos for twenty years, and spent fifteen of those years travelling on cruise ships.Leaving ships in 2011, I now live in the North East of England. When I’m not busy writing, I enjoy music, movies, beach walks and beer.
How long have you been writing, and how many books have you published to date?
I have been writing for four years. I have published two collections of short stories, available on Amazon.
What did you hope to accomplish by publishing your book?
In February 2017 I published a collection of some of my stories on Amazon Kindle. Researched for a couple of months, did all the work, even the cover photo. I wanted to be able to say that I’d done absolutely every part of the process myself. It turned out quite well, I think; it was stressful at times, but very rewarding, and it’s great to see my book on Amazon. Then I went and did it all again with my second collection!
When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?
I enjoyed writing stories as a young kid at school. Then I grew up, had a career and did some travelling. I saved some money, took some time off and thought about what I really wanted to do in life.I’d always enjoyed reading, and I read some books about writing professionally. Then I took a writing course, wrote some stories of my own and enjoyed it. Then I just carried on writing stories, hoping to improve a little each time. And I still like to read a lot.
Can you tell us about your writing process? Where do your ideas originate? Do you have a certain writing routine?
I get lots of ideas from newspaper articles. I expand the original idea, work on it for three or four days, ending up with lots of notes on paper. Then when I’ve got most of the story figured out, I’ll get to my laptop, start typing it up, breaking it down by scene, in random order. I usually find that the first and last scenes are the easiest ones for me.
What is your greatest challenge as a writer?
Finding the time to write. Or, setting aside the other stuff, everyday stuff, all the little mundane jobs that need attending to – sometimes it’s a challenge to put it all out of my mind, leaving me able to focus exclusively on writing.
Do you have a favourite author, or writing inspiration?
I’m an avid reader, particularly enjoying James Lee Burke (Robicheaux series), Robert B Parker (Spenser series) and Lawrence Block (Scudder series).I usually bookmark my favourite passages from their books, then revisit them later, hoping to soak up some of their skills!
What advice would you give beginning writers?
Just sit down and write. Never mind the laundry, or making a snack, or going for a bike ride – sit your butt down and write. There’ll always be other stuff to do, so get to it after you write.
What do you like to do when you're not writing? Any hobbies?
I like movies and music, and I’m very interested in politics. I’m out on my bicycle most days, and I like going for walks in the country. And you can’t beat sitting by the sea, drinking coffee and reading the newspaper!
Glenn McGoldrick's books are available on Amazon:
Nightmare Waiting
Little Dramas
Glenn McGoldrick worked in casinos for 20 years, and 15 of those 20 years were spent on cruise ships, seeing the world. He's now settled back home, in the Northeast of England. He writes in the horror/thriller genre.
For more on the author check out his Website.
You can also find him on Twitter: @G_T_McGoldrick
May 26, 2017
Interview With Author Paul Trinetti
Today I have an interview with author Paul Trinetti who chats about writing and his futuristic thriller trilogy, the Vexton Series. Enjoy!
Interview With Paul Trinetti
Why don’t you begin by sharing a little about yourself.
I’m 48 years old. I was born in Toronto, and have lived there my entire life. I’m single and have never been married. I worked as the accountant for my family’s construction company for twenty-five years. I’m an avid music and sports fan. I enjoy spending quality time and sharing laughs with family and friends. I would describe myself as someone who enjoys learning, but is also fascinated by the mysteries of life.
Could you tell us a bit about your latest book?
The Preservation Plan is the third and final book in my Vexton Series. The series is a story of a near-future America. An America so politically divided that it is in a battle to remain independent and not be auctioned off like cattle. In this final segment, the country reaches its breaking point and is hanging by a thread. Once so powerful – Now powerless?? – it’s up to the players involved, with the will of the people, to bridge the divide and come together as one and save their cherished land.
How long have you been writing?
I began writing poetry, lyrics, and short stories in my early teen years. It was in 2012 when I developed an outline for the Vexton Series and began writing in earnest.
Of all the books you've written, do you have a favourite?
Of the three books, the first book, MANUFRACTURED holds an extra special place in my heart. It’s where I developed the core characters and introduced the world my story is based on.
You write in several genres. Do you have a favourite? And if so, why? And why did you want to incorporate them all into your series?
Corporate and political corruption would lead the way. I’ve always found it interesting trying to determine who, and who isn’t sincere, which makes for fascinating stories.The reason I incorporated all these genres is because they are universal in nature, and my goal with the Vexton Series was to create a story that would be epic in proportion and resonate with a wide audience.
Are there particular challenges in writing for your core readership?
I wrote the story as a witness to the world around us, therefore I had to make sure I captured universal themes, but made them not only interesting, but also entertaining.
What did you enjoy most about writing your books?
The challenge of threading all the elements together while developing interesting characters.
Did anything surprise you about the process of writing your books?
Book 1 – The word-building aspect was grueling at times. But the creative process for books 2 and 3 flowed somewhat effortlessly.
What did you hope to accomplish by publishing your books?
As far as the actual story is concerned my hope is to: entertain, provoke thought, frighten and bring a chuckle to the reader by being original as can be.My long term goal is to have my story developed into a motion picture or television series.
What advice would you give beginning writers?
My belief is that any form of art has to come from the heart in order for it to touch others in a profound manner. As far as writing is concerned, my advice would be to use your imagination and never be afraid to create your own little world. Imagination is a powerful gift. From a technical standpoint, pay attention to the amount of and placement of info dumps and action scenes in order to establish quality pacing. Also, constantly revising and editing your work might seem frustrating, but it will pay off in the end. Everybody has a different style of writing, so I think it’s important for each individual to find what works best for them.
The Vexton Series is available in paperback on:
Amazon
And on Kindle:
Manufractured
Moon Shade Bluff
The Preservation Plan
And find more about the author and his books at these sites:
Website Twitter Facebook
Interview With Paul Trinetti
Why don’t you begin by sharing a little about yourself.I’m 48 years old. I was born in Toronto, and have lived there my entire life. I’m single and have never been married. I worked as the accountant for my family’s construction company for twenty-five years. I’m an avid music and sports fan. I enjoy spending quality time and sharing laughs with family and friends. I would describe myself as someone who enjoys learning, but is also fascinated by the mysteries of life.
Could you tell us a bit about your latest book?
The Preservation Plan is the third and final book in my Vexton Series. The series is a story of a near-future America. An America so politically divided that it is in a battle to remain independent and not be auctioned off like cattle. In this final segment, the country reaches its breaking point and is hanging by a thread. Once so powerful – Now powerless?? – it’s up to the players involved, with the will of the people, to bridge the divide and come together as one and save their cherished land.
How long have you been writing?
I began writing poetry, lyrics, and short stories in my early teen years. It was in 2012 when I developed an outline for the Vexton Series and began writing in earnest.
Of all the books you've written, do you have a favourite?Of the three books, the first book, MANUFRACTURED holds an extra special place in my heart. It’s where I developed the core characters and introduced the world my story is based on.
You write in several genres. Do you have a favourite? And if so, why? And why did you want to incorporate them all into your series?
Corporate and political corruption would lead the way. I’ve always found it interesting trying to determine who, and who isn’t sincere, which makes for fascinating stories.The reason I incorporated all these genres is because they are universal in nature, and my goal with the Vexton Series was to create a story that would be epic in proportion and resonate with a wide audience.
Are there particular challenges in writing for your core readership?
I wrote the story as a witness to the world around us, therefore I had to make sure I captured universal themes, but made them not only interesting, but also entertaining.
What did you enjoy most about writing your books?
The challenge of threading all the elements together while developing interesting characters.
Did anything surprise you about the process of writing your books?
Book 1 – The word-building aspect was grueling at times. But the creative process for books 2 and 3 flowed somewhat effortlessly.
What did you hope to accomplish by publishing your books?
As far as the actual story is concerned my hope is to: entertain, provoke thought, frighten and bring a chuckle to the reader by being original as can be.My long term goal is to have my story developed into a motion picture or television series.
What advice would you give beginning writers?
My belief is that any form of art has to come from the heart in order for it to touch others in a profound manner. As far as writing is concerned, my advice would be to use your imagination and never be afraid to create your own little world. Imagination is a powerful gift. From a technical standpoint, pay attention to the amount of and placement of info dumps and action scenes in order to establish quality pacing. Also, constantly revising and editing your work might seem frustrating, but it will pay off in the end. Everybody has a different style of writing, so I think it’s important for each individual to find what works best for them.
The Vexton Series is available in paperback on:
Amazon
And on Kindle:
Manufractured
Moon Shade Bluff
The Preservation Plan
And find more about the author and his books at these sites:
Website Twitter Facebook
May 24, 2017
Drabble Wednesday: Dark Feathers
Today on Drabble Wednesday we fly with our dark winged friends, and death...
The Termination Onyx
Across the sky shadows grew. Mottled streaks of soft gray into coal black patches covered blue and spread through the white clouds. From the tip of the world to the farthest horizon the shadows crept, and when they reached around the planet, the feathers fell as rain. Stygian dark and sharp as razors, they sliced through air and trees and flesh, and when they struck the ground the earth shook and cracked. Cities became ruin, mountains fractured, and seas boiled. Apocalypse, the inhabitants called it. Annihilation Day. The Universe knew it better by another name. The Day the Angels Died.
~*~
The Ravens
On darkling wings the ravens flew. A black spot across the midday sun, the trio of birds soared over the meadows and the forests, past the farms and towns. Every door closed against them, every shutter barred to their presence. The people of Arajyn knew what the ravens heralded. Every soul waited in fear for its coming. Children sobbed, parents prayed. And gave thanks when the ravens passed them by. Until the birds descended, roosting in a tree outside the village of Syarien. Every voice in that village wailed, knowing they had been chosen. Sacrifices to the God of Death.
~*~
Black Wings and a Story
Tell me a story you said. So I did. But you didn’t like the ending, did you? I can’t say that I blame you. I tricked you, just a bit. You didn’t know what would happen. Now did you? If you did, if you knew who I was, then you wouldn’t have listened. Would you? No one wants the Raven King to tell them a story. For, you know, my stories are never free. Their ending always come with a price.Poor you. You paid, didn’t you?You paid when I plucked out your eyes, and sliced out your tongue.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
The Termination Onyx
Across the sky shadows grew. Mottled streaks of soft gray into coal black patches covered blue and spread through the white clouds. From the tip of the world to the farthest horizon the shadows crept, and when they reached around the planet, the feathers fell as rain. Stygian dark and sharp as razors, they sliced through air and trees and flesh, and when they struck the ground the earth shook and cracked. Cities became ruin, mountains fractured, and seas boiled. Apocalypse, the inhabitants called it. Annihilation Day. The Universe knew it better by another name. The Day the Angels Died.
~*~
The Ravens
On darkling wings the ravens flew. A black spot across the midday sun, the trio of birds soared over the meadows and the forests, past the farms and towns. Every door closed against them, every shutter barred to their presence. The people of Arajyn knew what the ravens heralded. Every soul waited in fear for its coming. Children sobbed, parents prayed. And gave thanks when the ravens passed them by. Until the birds descended, roosting in a tree outside the village of Syarien. Every voice in that village wailed, knowing they had been chosen. Sacrifices to the God of Death.
~*~
Black Wings and a Story
Tell me a story you said. So I did. But you didn’t like the ending, did you? I can’t say that I blame you. I tricked you, just a bit. You didn’t know what would happen. Now did you? If you did, if you knew who I was, then you wouldn’t have listened. Would you? No one wants the Raven King to tell them a story. For, you know, my stories are never free. Their ending always come with a price.Poor you. You paid, didn’t you?You paid when I plucked out your eyes, and sliced out your tongue.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
May 23, 2017
Book Spotlight: A Life Removed
Today I have another spotlight, this time for the crime thriller, A Life Removed by Jason Parent. Enjoy!
A Life Removed by Jason Parent
Detectives Bruce Marklin and Jocelyn Beaudette have put plenty of criminals behind bars. But a new terror is stalking their city. The killer’s violent crimes are ritualistic but seemingly indiscriminate. As the death toll rises, the detectives must track a murderer without motive. The next kill could be anyone… maybe even one of their own.
Officer Aaron Pimental sees no hope for himself or humanity. His girlfriend is pulling away, and his best friend has found religion. When Aaron is thrust into the heart of the investigation, he must choose who he will become, the hero or the villain.
If Aaron doesn’t decide soon, the choice will be made for him.
A Life Removed is available on Amazon
Author Bio:
In his head, Jason Parent lives in many places, but in the real world, he calls New England his home. The region offers an abundance of settings for his writing and many wonderful places in which to write them. He currently resides in Southeastern Massachusetts with his cuddly corgi named Calypso.In a prior life, Jason spent most of his time in front of a judge . . . as a civil litigator. When he finally tired of Latin phrases no one knew how to pronounce and explaining to people that real lawsuits are not started, tried and finalized within the 60-minute timeframe they see on TV (it's harassing the witness; no one throws vicious woodland creatures at them), he traded in his cheap suits for flip flops and designer stubble. The flops got repossessed the next day, and he's back in the legal field . . . sorta. But that's another story.
When he's not working, Jason likes to kayak, catch a movie, travel any place that will let him enter, and play just about any sport (except that ball tied to the pole thing where you basically just whack the ball until it twists in a knot or takes somebody's head off - he misses the appeal). And read and write, of course. He does that too sometimes.
Please visit the author on Facebook, on Twitter, or at his Website for information regarding upcoming events or releases, or if you have any questions or comments for him.
A Life Removed by Jason Parent
Detectives Bruce Marklin and Jocelyn Beaudette have put plenty of criminals behind bars. But a new terror is stalking their city. The killer’s violent crimes are ritualistic but seemingly indiscriminate. As the death toll rises, the detectives must track a murderer without motive. The next kill could be anyone… maybe even one of their own.
Officer Aaron Pimental sees no hope for himself or humanity. His girlfriend is pulling away, and his best friend has found religion. When Aaron is thrust into the heart of the investigation, he must choose who he will become, the hero or the villain.
If Aaron doesn’t decide soon, the choice will be made for him.
A Life Removed is available on Amazon
Author Bio:
In his head, Jason Parent lives in many places, but in the real world, he calls New England his home. The region offers an abundance of settings for his writing and many wonderful places in which to write them. He currently resides in Southeastern Massachusetts with his cuddly corgi named Calypso.In a prior life, Jason spent most of his time in front of a judge . . . as a civil litigator. When he finally tired of Latin phrases no one knew how to pronounce and explaining to people that real lawsuits are not started, tried and finalized within the 60-minute timeframe they see on TV (it's harassing the witness; no one throws vicious woodland creatures at them), he traded in his cheap suits for flip flops and designer stubble. The flops got repossessed the next day, and he's back in the legal field . . . sorta. But that's another story.When he's not working, Jason likes to kayak, catch a movie, travel any place that will let him enter, and play just about any sport (except that ball tied to the pole thing where you basically just whack the ball until it twists in a knot or takes somebody's head off - he misses the appeal). And read and write, of course. He does that too sometimes.
Please visit the author on Facebook, on Twitter, or at his Website for information regarding upcoming events or releases, or if you have any questions or comments for him.
May 20, 2017
Book Spotlight: Conquest (The SciFan™ Universe Series Book 1)
Today I bring a delightful treat with a spotlight for the SciFan novel, Conquest (The SciFan™ Universe Series Book 1) by Aleric Elos. I have a look at the book and an excerpt, so enjoy!
Conquest (The SciFan™ Universe Series Book 1)
by Aleric Elos
A primeval darkness threatens to destroy mankind...The world's largest gaming platform in the entire industry is led by a man with many secrets. The popular game DarkForce features the World of Zion which has been plagued by the destructive will of the Leviathan for centuries. What gamers don't know is that the World of Zion actually exists, and the Leviathan has fed off of the souls of men and his fodder has become scarce. He now turns to Earth with an insatiable hunger. Only a woman from Earth who levels up to discover a divine inner power can challenge Earth's Apocalyptic Fate.
You can find Conquest on Amazon
The voices in his mind were barely a whisper now, but they were always present. It had taken him hundreds of years to subdue them, and he feared that his true intentions would soon be discovered. Though Timur Demyan had long ago yielded up his soul unto the Leviathan, he still followed his own agenda while he fulfilled the will of his Master.Timur hid in the shadows of the park, slipping through the darkness from one shadow to the next. His prey walked quickly with eyes darting to each side like a bird weary of predators. A frantic look of desperation was plastered over the other man’s unshaven face as he flipped open an antiquated cell phone.“Come on…” he heard Jason Bridger murmur to the phone as he approached the fountain, “Answer already!”“Allan, this is Jason. I know we haven’t spoken in a long time, but I need your help. I’ve stumbled across some disturbing information that involves one of your firm’s clients. I need to speak with you in private immediately. As soon as you get this, meet me on the east side of Buckingham Fountain. There’s little time.”The instant Jason ended the call, Timur stepped out of the shadows, “Indeed, you have very little time.”Jason spun around with his concealed pistol cocked and ready, “Back off, old man!”“Ah,” Timur limped forward with his cane in his crippled right hand while he brandished a handgun with his left, “Not until you return what belongs to me.”“I’m not letting you get away with this.” Jason shook his head adamantly.“This scene is all too familiar.” Timur chuckled as he cocked his handgun and aimed, “This is exactly how your colleague died.”Without a second’s hesitation, Jason pulled the trigger. Timur fell backwards with the sudden impact that hit him in the face. Seconds later a strange greenish glow surrounded his body, and then he disappeared. Jason’s eyes grew wide, and then a bullet ripped through his abdomen. And then another through his chest. Clutching the wounds, he absently dropped his pistol as he fell to his knees.Timur reappeared from another shadow and the strange glow around his body began to dissipate. He approached with a silencer affixed to the tip of his handgun and picked up the old thumb drive that had fallen out of Jason’s hand.“As I said earlier, you indeed have very little time.” Timur sneered as he placed the tip of his handgun against Jason’s forehead, “And I might add, your friend Allan has very little time as well.”
Author Bio:
Aleric Elos is the Award-Winning Author of The SciFan™ Universe series. He likes to play MMORPGs, and since he doesn't have the software engineering experience to develop his own games he decided to express his creativity in written form.
You can find him on:
Facebook Twitter
Conquest (The SciFan™ Universe Series Book 1)
by Aleric Elos
A primeval darkness threatens to destroy mankind...The world's largest gaming platform in the entire industry is led by a man with many secrets. The popular game DarkForce features the World of Zion which has been plagued by the destructive will of the Leviathan for centuries. What gamers don't know is that the World of Zion actually exists, and the Leviathan has fed off of the souls of men and his fodder has become scarce. He now turns to Earth with an insatiable hunger. Only a woman from Earth who levels up to discover a divine inner power can challenge Earth's Apocalyptic Fate.
You can find Conquest on Amazon
The voices in his mind were barely a whisper now, but they were always present. It had taken him hundreds of years to subdue them, and he feared that his true intentions would soon be discovered. Though Timur Demyan had long ago yielded up his soul unto the Leviathan, he still followed his own agenda while he fulfilled the will of his Master.Timur hid in the shadows of the park, slipping through the darkness from one shadow to the next. His prey walked quickly with eyes darting to each side like a bird weary of predators. A frantic look of desperation was plastered over the other man’s unshaven face as he flipped open an antiquated cell phone.“Come on…” he heard Jason Bridger murmur to the phone as he approached the fountain, “Answer already!”“Allan, this is Jason. I know we haven’t spoken in a long time, but I need your help. I’ve stumbled across some disturbing information that involves one of your firm’s clients. I need to speak with you in private immediately. As soon as you get this, meet me on the east side of Buckingham Fountain. There’s little time.”The instant Jason ended the call, Timur stepped out of the shadows, “Indeed, you have very little time.”Jason spun around with his concealed pistol cocked and ready, “Back off, old man!”“Ah,” Timur limped forward with his cane in his crippled right hand while he brandished a handgun with his left, “Not until you return what belongs to me.”“I’m not letting you get away with this.” Jason shook his head adamantly.“This scene is all too familiar.” Timur chuckled as he cocked his handgun and aimed, “This is exactly how your colleague died.”Without a second’s hesitation, Jason pulled the trigger. Timur fell backwards with the sudden impact that hit him in the face. Seconds later a strange greenish glow surrounded his body, and then he disappeared. Jason’s eyes grew wide, and then a bullet ripped through his abdomen. And then another through his chest. Clutching the wounds, he absently dropped his pistol as he fell to his knees.Timur reappeared from another shadow and the strange glow around his body began to dissipate. He approached with a silencer affixed to the tip of his handgun and picked up the old thumb drive that had fallen out of Jason’s hand.“As I said earlier, you indeed have very little time.” Timur sneered as he placed the tip of his handgun against Jason’s forehead, “And I might add, your friend Allan has very little time as well.”
Author Bio:
Aleric Elos is the Award-Winning Author of The SciFan™ Universe series. He likes to play MMORPGs, and since he doesn't have the software engineering experience to develop his own games he decided to express his creativity in written form.
You can find him on:
Facebook Twitter
May 17, 2017
Drabble Wednesday: It’s Lonely in Space
Today Drabble Wednesday travels the spaceways, the great void between worlds where anything can happen...
Lost
Can you remember?The planetary existence, the warmth of a sun?There is no warmth out here, the stars are cold, distant. Dangerous. Like most everything. Even the smallest thing can kill you. Yet they send us out, and we go. Sometimes I wonder why. What appeals to us about black void of space? Wouldn’t we be safer huddled beneath the gentle stars, oblivious of the fate that awaits?I wish I didn’t know. About the alien armada.I wish I wasn’t surrounded by outlying stars, floating in an escape pod.And most of all, I wish I didn’t remember.
~*~
Skitters
Can you hear it in the walls?The scratches and the chittering between the bulkheads. Something’s in there, poking around. My lieutenant thinks I’m imaging it, says it’s just the older electronics on the station acting up. What does he know? He’s a newbie off fresh Earth Station, no real deep space experience.Just listen. Down there by the open vent shaft. You’ll hear it good there. That’s it, right there.You can hear them now, can’t you. All up close.Please stop screaming. Someone will notice.I’m sorry., but they said if I feed them, they’ll leave me alone.
~*~
Stasis
I wonder what day it is? Or what year?It’s hard to keep track in this metal prison.I can hear the hum and whir of the machinery, even feel the ship’s vibrations. I think. That might be my imagination.Most people dream in these stasis pods, blissfully unconscious and unaware. But one percent stay awake. Unable to move, open their eyes, or scream. Trapped in their own bodies, marking time as they go insane, a perfectly preserved physical specimen until the pods opens.Guess which category I fall into?Stuck for fifty years as a living corpse.Lucky me.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
Lost
Can you remember?The planetary existence, the warmth of a sun?There is no warmth out here, the stars are cold, distant. Dangerous. Like most everything. Even the smallest thing can kill you. Yet they send us out, and we go. Sometimes I wonder why. What appeals to us about black void of space? Wouldn’t we be safer huddled beneath the gentle stars, oblivious of the fate that awaits?I wish I didn’t know. About the alien armada.I wish I wasn’t surrounded by outlying stars, floating in an escape pod.And most of all, I wish I didn’t remember.
~*~
Skitters
Can you hear it in the walls?The scratches and the chittering between the bulkheads. Something’s in there, poking around. My lieutenant thinks I’m imaging it, says it’s just the older electronics on the station acting up. What does he know? He’s a newbie off fresh Earth Station, no real deep space experience.Just listen. Down there by the open vent shaft. You’ll hear it good there. That’s it, right there.You can hear them now, can’t you. All up close.Please stop screaming. Someone will notice.I’m sorry., but they said if I feed them, they’ll leave me alone.
~*~
Stasis
I wonder what day it is? Or what year?It’s hard to keep track in this metal prison.I can hear the hum and whir of the machinery, even feel the ship’s vibrations. I think. That might be my imagination.Most people dream in these stasis pods, blissfully unconscious and unaware. But one percent stay awake. Unable to move, open their eyes, or scream. Trapped in their own bodies, marking time as they go insane, a perfectly preserved physical specimen until the pods opens.Guess which category I fall into?Stuck for fifty years as a living corpse.Lucky me.
© A. F. Stewart 2017 All Rights Reserved
