Randall Krzak's Blog, page 43

June 25, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, June 25, 2017

It’s hard to believe we’re already in the last weekend of June. The year is speeding by. It didn’t seem that long ago I was still removing snow. Now, the summer pastimes of grass cutting, weeding, and painting are intertwined with kayaking, boating, and relaxing on the beach. Still too cold to get into the water, except for the more adventurous.


Each morning, there’s a symphony of birdcalls as the waterfront comes alive. The marigolds are in full bloom and producing new flowers at a fantastic rate. Meanwhile, the coneflowers and Shasta Daisies are beginning to bloom, as are the delphiniums and lavenders.


My Work in Progress


Despite the various outdoor pursuits, my writing continues, albeit at a slower pace. The next chapter of Dangerous Alliance is still in draft, but nearly completed at this time. I’ve already started working on the following chapter, hoping to post both to my subscription writings site within the next week for review.


Last week, I mentioned a plot for another book had popped into my head, involving a former D.C. homicide detective and a former DEA agent. I’ve shared the synopsis with a couple of regular reviewers and did some tweaking. Now that I’m satisfied with the synopsis, I’ve put it aside, but believe this will make a great beginning to a new series. While it will initially begin in the U.S., Canada and Mexico will also be involved.


More from Dangerous Alliance:


“Time for your call. They’re putting you through to Prime Minister Smith.”


Several clicks echoed on the line before a deep and mellow voice spoke. “Afternoon, Sir Alex. How are you?”


“Fine, Prime Minister. Yourself?”


“Couldn’t be better, although I did take a beating at yesterday’s Prime Minister’s Questions. I should know better than to let the opposition party needle me.”


“Sir, as long as we’ve known each other, the opposition always maintains the upper hand.”


“Quite. As you’re aware, I’m flying to America next month to meet with the new president. I’d appreciate a candid appraisal from you before my meeting with him.”


***


No, go right ahead. I’ll be giving Admiral Blakely a call in a few minutes, and I’ll head out early. Have a meeting to attend at the Club—something about raising fees.”


“Okay. Good night, Sir Alex.”


He nodded as he perused another file. After ticking several boxes on the attached routing slip, he tossed the file aside. Sir Alex stood, stretched his back to work out the kinks from sitting too long, and reached for the gray and brown secure telephone.


“Hello.” Admiral Blakely’s gruff voice rifled through the line.


Sir Alex held the receiver away from his ear. “Richard. Alex here. How are you?”


“Still breathing. Yourself?”


“The same.” Both men chuckled before Sir Alex continued. “Winnie mentioned you withholding some hush-hush information from me?”


Perhaps we’ll learn about the hush-hush information next time.


Books I’m Reading


I’ve been finishing up a historic thriller for an author so I can provide a pre-release review. Unfortunately, I can’t share anything on this one yet. In the meantime, here are my thoughts on several other books:


Russell Moran creates a fantastic political/terrorism thriller with The Shadows of Terror (Patterns Book 1). A FBI agent, a CIA operative, and a NYPD detective are embroiled in the ultimate battle against terrorism–the rise of homegrown terrorists who are planning a massive attack with the potential for thousands of casualties. They look like us, speak like us, and live among us. How do you tell the terrorists from everyday citizens? Rick Bellamy, an FBI counter-terrorism expert is joined by a CIA official named Buster, and Bennie Weinberg, a NYPD detective and psychiatrist. Together, they create a formidable team, but will they be able to identify the terrorists hidden in plain sight?


Russell’s characters are top-notch, believable, and not afraid to seek help from others, no matter who they might be. The Shadows of Terror is well written, filled with plenty of twists and turns, and will keep you turning the pages. I’ll definitely be grabbing a copy of The Scent of Revenge: Book Two of the Patterns Series!


Wrong Place Wrong Time by David P. Perlmutter, is based on true events and is a fascinating read. How can a real estate agent end up falling on such hard times? Despite his best efforts, life seemed to have a different set of priorities for David. How on earth can one person be subjected to so many things going wrong? Even when David’s trying to do what is right, he ends up on the wrong side of the law.


I won’t go into the events as I don’t want to spoil anyone’s reading, but you definitely need to grab a copy and settle in for a wild ride. All I could do was nod, shake my head, laugh, and cover my eyes with David’s exploits. One thing for sure, Wrong Place Wrong will make you satisfied with whatever good things come your way. Well-written and described and worth a read!


I recently had the opportunity to read E. Rachael Hardcastle’s novel, Finding Pandora: Book One: World. This is the first of four in the Finding Pandora series. While I must admit Miss Hardcastle’s work is a bit outside my favorite genres, I’m glad I’ve taken the opportunity to read the writing of an up and coming author.


Finding Pandora: Book One: World introduces readers to a myriad of races, each having distinct powers about 7,000 years in the future. Humans still exist, but as a minority culture, with vamprys, traveling angels, and others, bringing a new perspective to their planet, Haeylo.


Arriete Monroe, one of the few humans on Haeylo, reluctantly agrees to help her former boyfriend. He convinces her his current fiancée (and Arriete’s friend) needs her help. Matters quickly escalate as what should have been a simple journey changes Arriete’s life. She is chosen to be the savior by a being referred to as the Recruit. With her new abilities (you’ll have to read the book to find out more) and the help of others, we’re taken on a whirlwind tour of different cities and worlds as they battle against the evil spewing forth from the original Pandora’s box. This is an action-packed story, which will also appeal to those who enjoy supernatural fantasy romances. When time permits, I’ll check out the sequel.


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.


DeAnna Jackson – DeAnna writes about life and parenting. A fascinating site and well worth a visit.


Readers Abode – Check out my interview with author E. Rachael Hardcastle.


Devil’s Door – The second novel by AJ Wallace in the Sideways Eight series was released on June 15th and it’s another winner. Why not grab yourself a copy?


I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.


 


 


 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 25, 2017 04:58

June 18, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, June 18, 2017

To all the fathers out there, Happy Father’s Day!  I won’t see my son today as he lives in D.C. and came up for Mother’s Day. However, he sent me a great Father’s Day card and also an Amazon gift card. Now, I can buy some more novels to read!


My Work in Progress


The continuing improvement in the weather means more outdoor activities. I wish I could report I was doing something exciting, but I wasn’t. Cutting grass, pulling weeds, and doing some painting don’t qualify as fun, but they are things that do require regular upkeep.  The marigolds are a fantastic splash of oranges, reds, and yellows, and it won’t be long before the daisies and coneflowers will be popping out.


At least I was able to continue writing when time permitted. I haven’t finished the next chapter of Dangerous Alliance yet, but it’s well underway and should be posted to the two subscription writing sites I use by next weekend.


Two nights ago, a plot for another book popped into my head. This one will involved a former D.C. homicide detective and a former DEA agent. Perhaps later, I’ll provide a glimpse into this one.


Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:


“Eat.” Asad stabbed at the roasted meat with a sharp knife. “Take the kibhis and I will cut you a piece of goat.”


With their first nourishing meal since being abducted, the women gobbled the bread and meat, licking the juices from their fingers.


“When you are finished, you may go to the wooden huts. The one on the left is the female toilet.” Asad nodded toward the structures. “Afterward, return to your building. Remain until the sun begins to rise.”


***


Jamiila peeked out the doorway. Men carrying torches gathered at the wall. On the ground, a body lay motionless.


Asad turned around, glaring at the captives. “I told you the penalty for trying to escape.” He kicked the body until it rolled over, face up.


Jamiila gasped—the woman chosen to lead the other group of captives. I never knew her name. She sank to her knees, covering her face. Why?


A wild animal screamed in the distance. Another howled as if recognizing the stench of death.


“Heed my warning. Or you will be like her.”


Perhaps a bit more next time.


Books I’m Reading


I’ve been finishing up a historic thriller for an author so I can provide a pre-release review. Unfortunately, I can’t share anything on this one yet. Next time I have two reviews planned: The Shadows of Terror (Patterns Book 1) by Russell Moran and Wrong Place Wrong Time by David P. Perlmutter.


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. This week, I’d like to share a link to the release of a new crime novel.


Devil’s Door – The second novel by AJ Wallace in the Sideways Eight series was released on June 15th and it’s another winner. Why not grab yourself a copy?


I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.


 



 


 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 18, 2017 05:39

June 11, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, June 11, 2017

A warm breeze, brilliant sunshine, birds twittering, and no rain in the forecast–what a start to the day!


My Work in Progress


Despite the better weather and outdoor activities, I managed to finally complete another chapter of Dangerous Alliance and post it to the two subscription writing sites I use. Overall, initial responses are good, but as always, there is room for improvement. Chapter twenty-one is now underway. I’ve also been busy refining my outline, dropping a chapter here and adding another there to improve the story’s flow.


 


Books I’m Reading


After several attempts to consolidate my thoughts on a couple of books I recently read, I’ve finally been able to do so.


First up today is Jack Du Brul’s River of Ruin (Philip Mercer Book 5). Primarily set in the jungles of Panama, a friend of Mercer’s is searching for a legend. Inca riches, referred to as the Twice-Stolen Treasure are purported to be buried in Panama.  Mystery, intrigue, danger, and a beautiful woman all vie for Mercer’s attention. Mr. Du Brul weaves another spellbinding story, taking his readers on a realistic journey, which might have serious consequences for the United States if Mercer is unsuccessful in piecing the puzzle together and grabbing the prizes. However, a Chinese organization is trying their best to recover the prize, even if it means the elimination of Mercer and his friends. Another great plot from a master storyteller!


Next up is The Thousand Years War by Angel Medina. What begins with a normal winter’s day in New York changes the lives of four people as they end up in a virtual mirror image of Earth, but one which is under attack by an evil presence who wants the planet for himself. Can Angel (the main character) and the others defeat evil and maintain the virtual Earth for mankind or will they fail and the real planet falls into dark ages?


Mr. Medina uses well-crafted characters, a vivid imagination, and a gift for building an excellent plot. has written an action-packed story with excellent twists and turns. Even if your don’t normally read this genre, I think you’ll find the story worthwhile. I wish him every success as he continues his writing journey.


 Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. With all the extra curricular activities this week, I didn’t have a chance to browse around. I should have something to share with you soon.


I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.



 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 11, 2017 05:42

June 4, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, June 4, 2017

It’s been a hectic day since I first saw the shimmering reds and yellows across the water as night gave way to dawn. I should have grabbed the camera and snapped a few photos.


During the past week, all of my writing time has been devoted to external events, so I don’t have anything new to mention regarding my creative journey.


However, here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:


Exhausted, the captives tried to maintain the grueling pace. Malnourished, weak from hunger and disease, they struggled. When they slowed too much, blows from rifle butts hurried them along.


After more than an hour’s march, the leader called for a halt. “Short break. Some water. Then we go.”


***


“We stay here until dark.” Asad grabbed Jamiila’s covered arm. “You responsible for the others. Make sure they not run away—or you die.” He turned to his men. “Two guards. Remove prisoner ropes. Make sure no trouble.”


So tired—must have dozed. I miss my children. Like an automaton, Jamiila placed one foot in front of the other, stumbling over exposed roots from nearby bushes. My children—will I ever hold them again? Tears, like drops of rain, fell unchecked.


***


Asad extended a hand to Jamiila. She hesitated fearful of might happen. “Take my hand. I understand we’re not married and shouldn’t have physical contact. However, he embarrassed himself—and me.”


She reached up, allowing Asad to help her rise. “Thank you.” She glanced at those attached to her. “Why take these young girls? What do you want with them?”


“Some of the men want wives.”


“They’re too young.”


“Perhaps, but they will age. In the meantime, they will cook, clean, and take care of their man.”


Jamiila shook her head. Fearful to say anything more, she remained silent. Animals. Nothing but animals.


Perhaps more next week.


Books I’m Reading


In addition to my writing time being curtailed, even my normal nighttime reading was hampered. As a result, we’ll have to wait for next week for my thoughts on River of Ruin by Jack Du Brul and The Thousand Years War by Angel Medina.


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.


Ann Everett – A Texan author who believes in sass, sizzle, and suspense. Check out her website, especially her Five on Friday blog, where she interviews various authors.


I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.


 


 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 04, 2017 15:43

May 28, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, May 28, 2017

The last Monday of May is Memorial Day–an American federal holiday set aside to honor those who died while serving in the armed forces. Unofficially, the Memorial Day weekend is the start of the summer vacation season and this year was no exception.


Mother Nature played her part in starting the weekend off with good weather, at least along Lake Huron. The sounds of multiple lawn mowers filled the air as ‘fair weather’ owners opened their homes and tackled grass last cut the previous fall. Powerboats and kayaks dotted the water’s edge, while barbecues provided nourishment. Last night, camp fires and fireworks brightened the evening sky.


Today began with a myriad of birds twittering away and sunshine shimmering across calm water. Not sure how long it will last, as multiple thunderstorms are predicted for today. In the meantime, no matter how you spend the weekend, enjoy yourselves.


My Work in Progress


With good weather for the past few days, writing once again had to take a backseat to other activities, such as cutting our grass, giving the beach a proper clean, and staining the deck. I also planted around 100 marigolds, to provide some color while we’re waiting for our coneflowers and daisies to mature and blossom. On tap for today, time on the riding mower as the rains have ensured a steady growth of the green stuff.


Despite the long preparations to prepare our home for the summer ahead, I still managed to continue some writing. The first draft of Dangerous Alliance, chapter twenty, is almost complete.


Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:


Soo hung his head. “T-hey beat me. Asked me questions. If they didn’t like my answers, they hit or kicked me.”


“What did they ask?”


“One man spoke but there were four—all wearing masks. He wanted to know why I came to Victoria. I told him for a vacation. Would you open the window, please? I need fresh air.”


Kim walked to the window, pushed aside the curtains, and shoved against the frame until the window opened. He returned to Soo. “What else did this man ask?”


“He wanted to know the names of who traveled with me—I told him I was on my own.”


“What happened next?”


“Someone gave me an injection and I passed out. I awoke when you found me in the gardens.”


Kim rubbed his chin, gazing at Soo for telltale signs of a lie. He asked a final question. “Did you tell them about me?”


“No.”


“Hmm. I must make arrangements for us to return to Pyongyang. Are you sure you didn’t mention my name?”


“I’m sure. I told them my wife and sons lived in Korea but nothing else.”


Perhaps more next time.


Books I’m Reading


I’m currently finishing two books, River of Ruin by Jack Du Brul and The Thousand Years War by Angel Medina. I’m not quite finished but should have my thoughts about both books for your next week.


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. With all the extra curricular activities this week, I didn’t have a chance to browse around. I should have something to share with you soon.


I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.



 


 


 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on May 28, 2017 05:17

May 21, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, May 21, 2017

The middle of the past week brought excellent weather to our area, especially for this time of year. On Wednesday, the temperature topped out at 85F/29C, followed by 82F/28C. I thought we were on to a good thing.


The warm weather brought around the first hummingbird of the season. It couldn’t find its normal feeder, which was still in the garage, so I quickly cleaned the container and placed it in the tree. We also had a visit from our first Baltimore oriole–its special swing (where we can place orange slices) is ready to go.


Of course we saw all of our regulars who braved the cold Michigan winter, but the best surprise came on Thursday, with our first sighting since moving here four years ago.


[image error]Our first red-headed woodpecker!  What a beauty. We’ve had downy, hairy, and red-bellied woodpeckers and an occasional northern flicker, but this one is definitely a keeper!


Then Friday arrived with our old friend, Mother Nature saying hello with a quick reminder of who is in charge. The temperature made it all the way to 48F/9C–brrr! To compensate, it was sunny and a bit warmer yesterday and during the early morning hours we had a spectacular thunder and lightening show!


My Work in Progress


With such great weather for at least a couple of days, writing stopped as I concentrated on outside activities, such as cutting the grass, getting rid of some dead wood, washing the siding, and preparing the deck for its semi-annual staining. I put some old fence posts and warped boards out at the roadside, and within an hour someone stopped by to see if they could have them. Needless to say, my answer was yes. It’s always better to recycle.  


Even with my writing time seriously diminished, I still managed to finish the first draft of Dangerous Alliance, chapter nineteen. Since it’s a rainy day here, I hope to finish and get it posted to the two subscription writing sites I used. There are several reviewers patiently waiting for the next installment.


Someone also sent me a suggestion for a new book. I’ve already come up with a synopsis and tentative title. I shared this with the person providing the suggestion and they like it. Another person suggested I bring a couple of characters from The Kurdish Connection into the story, which seems like a good idea. I won’t share the synopsis just yet, but my tentative title is Forgotten Daughters. Watch this space for more details.


Books I’m Reading


As I promised last week, I finished reading Jack Du Brul’s Deep Fire Rising (Philip Mercer Book 6). I always look forward to reading Jack’s novels, and this one was no exception. Through his main character, Philip Mercer, who insists he be called Mercer (and there’s a story about his reasoning behind this) we’re off on another adventure. His initial summons by the government to check out the collapse of a ‘special’ mine in Nevada leads Mercer on a deadly chase to save millions of lives.


Enter a secret society called the Order, which is reeling from a schism, and Mercer’s life is once again on the line. Only this time, he has the help of a beautiful woman named Tisha. While the premise is a bit far-fetched, I still found Mercer’s actions well-suited for the task at hand. Can the Order really predict natural disasters and will Mercer be able to prevent one before a volcanic eruption and subsequent tsunami wipes out low-lying coastal areas, including the eastern coast of the U.S.? Hold onto your hats and climb on board for another action-packed thriller.


I also finished reading Brad Carl’s  Grey Areas – The Saga. This is the first work by Brad that I’ve read and I’ll be back for more. We meet a drifter named Henry who lands in a small town and manages to find work in a local store. He tries to keep to himself but before long he saves the life of an accident victim and is embroiled in a deadly drug plot.


As if he doesn’t have enough problems, his real name is released through a television program, which also stated he was on the run after murdering his boss. If Henry didn’t kill him, who did?  Brad’s created an excellent story, full of twists, turns, believable characters, and his story is hard to put down. I don’t want to be a spoiler, but f you enjoy drama and thrills, grab Brad’s saga and you’ll be glad you did. 


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. I shared these sites last time, but thought they’re worthy of another mention.


ReadersAbode – Created by a group of writers spread across several continents, there’s sure to be something of interest. Thus far, the site contains short stories and poems written by its members, several blog posts and interviews with established authors. Or check it out on Twitter: @readersabode.


Art Galore – A virtual world of art and books! Whether you’re into art of into finding a new book to read, check out this site.


Lenka’s List – Home of creative people. An excellent website for authors and bloggers to showcase their work.


I’m afraid that’s all the time I have this overcast and rainy Sunday. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.



 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on May 21, 2017 05:34

May 14, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, May 14, 2017

Today is Mother’s Day in Australia, Brazil, Canada, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United States, as well as several other countries. Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers and moms-to-be! Hope you have an enjoyable day. I know my wife is, because our son flew in yesterday morning from Washington, D.C., to spend the weekend with her. I don’t think he could have picked a better present!


My Work in Progress


Despite a myriad of external tasks this week, I still managed to squeeze in more writing on Dangerous Alliance. Chapter eighteen is posted to the two subscription writing sites I use and reviews are coming in.  Progress on chapter nineteen is also underway and I hope to post this during the coming week.  All other works on other projects are on hold until I at least complete Dangerous Alliance‘s overall first draft.


Here’s another snippet for you:


A man, dressed in dark clothing and covered in a green blanket with scattered dark brown splotches lay on the mulch, his head resting against a palm.


Kim bent down. Part of the blanket covered the man’s face. He pulled it aside—and gasped.


Soo!


Battered, bruised, but still with a pulse. Kim tapped Soo’s face—no response. He grasped him by the shoulders and gave a light shake. Soo’s head moved, minor twitches, before his hand reached out and grabbed Kim’s arm.


“Help. Me.” Soo’s hand fell to the ground.


***


A man smiled as he snapped photos through the open window, zooming in on Kim’s face. Another, this time with both men. He pushed back through the bushes, dropped his camera inside a Lufthansa airline bag, and departed.


How to proceed—threats? Blackmail?


Perhaps most next time.


Books I’m Reading


I’m finishing up Jack Du Brul’s Deep Fire Rising (Philip Mercer Book 6) and Brad Carl’s Grey Areas – The Saga. I’ll have both reviews for you next time.


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.


ReadersAbode – Don’t forget to check this site out. Created by a group of writers spread across several continents, there’s sure to be something of interest. Thus far, the site contains short stories and poems written by its members, several blog posts and interviews with established authors. Or check it out on Twitter: @readersabode.


Art Galore – A virtual world of art and books! Whether you’re into art of into finding a new book to read, check out this site.


Lenka’s List – Home of creative people. An excellent website for authors and bloggers to showcase their work.


I’m afraid that’s all the time I have this sunny Sunday. Need to enjoy the rest of the day with our son before he heads back to Washington this evening. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.


 


 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on May 14, 2017 05:07

May 7, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, May 7, 2017

Brilliant sunshine bouncing off the one-foot waves this morning created a wall of intense light, making it difficult to see. When my eyes could refocus, not a cloud could be seen. A crisp morning with a slight breeze to be sure, but very welcome after several days with thick, heavy clouds and blustering winds.


And so begins another Sunday on the lake as the waves continue to smooth the sand, having removed the stones which infiltrated over the past couple of weeks. Now there is a smooth beach, untouched by humans, with a thin line of nature’s refuse along the shore. Easy to clean up and make the beach perfect!


My Work in Progress


In case you missed it, The Lakeshore Guardian, a monthly newspaper on the Thumb of Michigan provided a review of The Kurdish Connection. It’s now linked on my publisher’s website, Moonshine Cove Publishing, LLC (just click on their name to link to the article). They also added a worthy sentence: “Randall Krzak’s novel of the Kurd’s struggle against Turkey, THE KURDISH CONNECTION, is so relevant that it reads like today’s headline news.”


Despite a myriad of external tasks this week, I still managed to squeeze in more writing on Dangerous Alliance. The first draft of chapter eighteen is now complete and will be posted in the next couple of days so my reviewers can check it out.  All other works on other projects are on hold until I at least complete Dangerous Alliance‘s overall first draft.


Here’s another snippet for you:


Light filtered through narrow slats nailed across a window. Dust particles shimmered in the sun’s beams, creating a pattern in the air. A body slumped on the concrete floor stirred.


Ooh. Aah.


He pushed himself to a kneeling position. A whimper escaped from swollen lips. Eyes mere slits, black and blue streaks surrounded them. Dried blood crusted his upper lip. He collapsed again.


Soo struggled to his feet. He wrapped the blanket closer and glanced around the room. A closed gunmetal gray door was centered on the wall opposite the blocked window. Near the door, an armless chair, his clothes in a neat stack.


A door slammed. Footsteps. Voices, growing louder.


“What’s the meaning of this? Who are you? Why did you kidnap me?”


Four men, faces hidden behind latex party masks formed a semi-circle in front of him. One retrieved the chair, placing it under the light. “Sit.”


Perhaps more next week.


Books I’m Reading


I finished David L. Golemon’s The Mountain: An Event Group Thriller.  The tenth book in the series, for me this was one of his best. While very different from other books in the series, this one centered on a historical artifact, one of the first obtained by the Group. Set during the Civil War, President Lincoln sends a group of Yankees and Rebels on what might possibly be a total folly.


Experience the intense emotions of the Northerners and Southerners as they steam away from the fighting. Escaping from British and French warships, they eventually end up in the Black Sea. Their destination–Mount Ararat and the fabled Ark. A professor who has witnessed the Ark first hand is sent with the team (along with some foreign spies who infiltrated the professor’s team), which begins to experience untimely and inexplicable deaths, even before landing on the shores of Trabzon.


While a bit slow to start, the pace rapidly picks up and like David’s other books, I couldn’t put it down. This isn’t just a tale about Noah’s Ark but also about the beliefs and devastation the Civil War launched upon the country. A worthy read!


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.


ReadersAbode – Don’t forget to check this site out. Created by a group of writers spread across several continents, there’s sure to be something of interest. Thus far, the site contains short stories and poems written by its members, several blog posts and interviews with established authors. Or check it out on Twitter: @readersabode. The next bi-weekly posting will be out sometime today.






Once again, we’ve reached the end of another ramble.  Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.


 


 






 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on May 07, 2017 05:31

May 2, 2017

Guardian Book Review – The Kurdish Connection

Michigan author Randall Krzak’s recently released novel titled The Kurdish Connection is a fast-paced Middle East tale filled with intriguing characters and a plot brimming with such vivid imagery the reader will become engrossed in an adventure on the other side of the world. The Kurdish Connection centers on the story of Iraqi Kurdish scavengers, who in their daily struggle for survival, uncover a cache of chemical weapons.


[image error]


According to Krzak’s website, www.randallkrzak.com, these Iraqi Kurdish scavengers “offer the weapons to Kurdish rebels in Turkey and Syria to assist in their quest to free an imprisoned leader and create a unified homeland. After receiving a tip form an unlikely source, the newly formed Special Operations Bedlam team is called to arms. Cant he team recover the weapons before it’s too late?”


The Kurdish Connection is Krzak’s debut thriller and will be part of a four-book series. Krzak is a U.S. Army veteran and retired senior civil servant, spending almost 30 years in Europe, Africa, Central America, and the Middle East; Krzak’s knowledge of the Middle East has offered him a firsthand glimpse into a war-torn region making him an expert at creating authentic characters and bringing this area of the world to life. When an international team is sent on an impossible mission, readers will find themselves rooting for the Special Operations Bedlam team to successfully locate and secure numerous sarin gas canisters before these chemical weapons fall into the wrong hands. Concurrently, readers will also be silently urging some of the Iraqi Kurdish scavengers to make the right decision.


Krzak’s military knowledge has aided him in crafting a believable and powerful story. Secret meetings and a desire for revenge contribute to the intrigue as the Kurds struggle to have their own homeland. Krzak takes his readers on a journey that will leave them wondering if this tale really did happen—or could something similar occur in today’s world?


For ordering information, to schedule an interview with the author, and to learn more about The Kurdish Connection and additional upcoming books, please email author Randall Krzak at rjkrcak@yahoo.com, or visit his website at www.randallkrzak.com.


© Copyright 2017 The Lakeshore Guardian, May 2017, Volume 19, Issue 3, Page 3.


 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on May 02, 2017 07:34

April 30, 2017

Randall’s Ramblings, April 30, 2017

As April draws to a close, Mother Nature certainly pulled a fast one on me! This past Wednesday, the thermometer registered 75F/24C. What a great day to work outdoors! The next day was almost the same, so I managed to rake the beach, cut some grass, and clear a good portion of the bluff.


Imagine my surprise yesterday. I needed a coat and my wool hat to keep warm. I did tackle more outdoor work, but it was very windy with a high temperature of 46F/8C, but with the wind chill, it felt much colder.  So much for spring–being from Michigan I should know better!  Today, it’s already 46F/8C, but with wind-driven rain, dark clouds, and waves rolling across the water, I’m not going to attempt anything outside. Perhaps a good day to write!


My Work in Progress


In the May issue of The Lakeshore Guardian, page three included a review of The Kurdish Connection. The entire article will eventually be posted on my website later this week, either under testimonials or reviews, I haven’t decided yet.  Here’s a bit from the article: “A fast-paced Middle East tale filled with intriguing characters and a plot brimming with such vivid imagery the reader will become engrossed in an adventure on the other wide of the world. He takes his readers on a journey that will leave them wondering if this tale really did happen–or could something similar occur in today’s world?”


Needless, to say, I’m thrilled with the review!


Despite all of the extracurricular activities this week, I did manage to finally finish the initial draft of Dangerous Alliance, chapter seventeen. All being well, I’ll post it to the two subscription writing sites I use and find out what readers think. I’ll post another snippet from Dangerous Alliance soon.


Books I’m Reading


I’m almost finished with David L. Golemon’s The Mountain: An Event Group thriller. You’ll have to check out my comments next week.


Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share


I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.


ReadersAbode – Don’t forget to check this site out. Created by a group of writers spread across several continents, there’s sure to be something of interest. Thus far, the site contains short stories and poems written by its members, several blog posts and interviews with established authors. Or check it out on Twitter: @readersabode.






I’m afraid that’s it for this time as we’ve reached the end of another ramble.  Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!


© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.






 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on April 30, 2017 05:21

Randall Krzak's Blog

Randall Krzak
Randall Krzak isn't a Goodreads Author (yet), but they do have a blog, so here are some recent posts imported from their feed.
Follow Randall Krzak's blog with rss.