Randall Krzak's Blog, page 7

Randall’s Ramblings, March 31, 2024

After a three-week vacation to South Carolina, we arrived back in Scotland this week. At first, it seems as if Scotland’s rainy weather following us across the Atlantic, but for the most part, the temperatures greatly exceeded those in Scotland. Today, it seems as if South Carolina’s sunny weather made the transition over, as we have plenty of sunshine and a temperature of 52F (11C).  Long may it last!

The price of gasoline (petrol) remained the same as when we left at  a £1.42 liter, while diesel held at £1.52. As a result, and with the current exchange rate between the pound and the dollar, an equivalent U.S. gallon of gasoline is now $6.77, a decrease of three cents, while diesel topped out at $7.26, climbing another penny, Meanwhile, when we filled the tank of our rental car, we paid $3.25 a gallon or sixty-eight cents.

“If you are in difficulties with a book, try the element of surprise: attack it at an hour when it isn’t expecting it.” – H.G. Wells. Compliments of https://press.barnesandnoble.com/bnpress-blog/inspirational-quotes-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on March 31st, the fourth and final Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Rene Descartes, French philosopher (he thought, therefore he was); Andrew Marvell, English poet (To His Coy Mistress); Edward FitzGerald, British poet, writer, and translator (Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam); Nikolai Gogol [Nikolay], Ukrainian-born Russian novelist, humorist, and dramatist (Dead Souls, The Inspector-General); Léon Dierx, French poet (Aspirations; Les Amants); Andrew Lang, Scottish poet, novelist, literary critic, and anthropologist (Andrew Lang’s Fairy Books); Borisav “Bora” Stanković, Serbian writer; Ion Pillat, Romanian poet and senator (Umbra timpului); Vardis Fisher, American author (Darkness & Deep); Pieter “Piet” Jongeling, Dutch politician (GPV) and author of children’s books (Scout: The Secret of the Swamp); Robert Brasillach, French author and journalist (editor in chief of the fascist weekly Je Suis Partout); Octavio Paz, Mexican poet (Salamandra; Topoemas), writer and diplomat who won the 1990 Nobel Prize laureate; Marga Minco [Sara Menco], Dutch journalist and writer (Bitter Herb); John Fowles, British novelist (Collector, French Lieutenant’s Woman); John Jakes, American writer (Sir Scoundrel, Great Women Reporters); Nichita Stănescu, Romanian poet; Marge Piercy, author (Small Changes, Gone for Soldiers); Valerie Curtin, American actress, writer, and producer; and David Eisenhower, author and grandson of President Eisenhower (married Julie Nixon).

Any names familiar to you? There weren’t any for me this time. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I previously mentioned, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. I still have to finish a few paragraphs of chapter thirty before I’m ready to post it to the two online subscription writing sites I use.

Reviewers provided another fifteen critiques, bringing the total to 542. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Sear pursed his lips. “Do you find your opinions in the minority?”

“Yes, I do. However, this is something I believe in, and I shall do my best to assist my country in becoming a prosperous nation where people with differing opinions can still share viewpoints without killing one another.”

“I hope I don’t offend you, Bashari, but don’t you think you have a rather simplistic viewpoint of the world?”

Bashari glanced at his wife and laughed. “Yes, I support I do. However, living in Europe taught both of us it is better to live together with mutual respect rather than always fighting.”

Sear nodded. “I suppose you’re right. So where do you think those who kidnapped Shatara are holding her?”

“I have given this some thought, and I believe they will be found in the more remote areas. Of course, I could be mistaken.” He studied Sear’s face. “I hope you will do whatever you can to bring our daughter back to us. “He glanced at Yasmin. “Alive.”

Sear nodded. “I will do everything possible to bring her back to you.” But I’m not sure what I can do by myself, and Vincent said no foreign support given the current situation in-country. He rubbed his stubble. “I might need some assistance. Do you know where I can find some guys experienced with fighting?”

Bashari and Yasmin glanced at each other and smiled.

“My late husband’s family wants revenge for his death. He had four brothers, and they have some grown-up sons who will want to help.”

“Okay.” Would prefer qualified fighters, but I can’t be choosy. He glanced at Bashari. “How about you?”

“I have two older brothers. They both have two sons, and all are experienced fighters.” He put up a hand and counted fingers as he stared at the ceiling. “I can also count on eight cousins.”

“Where do they live?”

“They are all in the Aden area—they’re fishermen. But I know they will help.”

At least eighteen. Will it be enough? Sear studied Bashari and Yasmin’s faces. “Should it be necessary for you and your family to leave Yemen once I find Shatara, will you be able to do so?”

“Yes. I shall do whatever is necessary to keep my family together. I made many friends in Europe, and I am sure they will help us begin a new life.” Bashari sighed. “Compared to most Yemenis, we are considered wealthy. But wealth brings its own dangers. I also know a secret that might be useful as a bargaining chip.” He stared at Sear. “But it might be dangerous.”

“What is that?”

“There is a Saudi faction living in Yemen. They are trying to keep a damaging secret from the rest of Saudi Arabia and moderates in Yemen. If their secret is revealed, the truth will pit family against family, brother against brother, until the sands are colored with blood.”

More next time.

As I get back into my writing, I’ll continue with  The Great Rebellion – Finn Harding Book One.  It’s a romantic alternate history of the American Civil War. I’m tweaking chapter five, originally written by my co-author, and hope to send it to him over the next week for consideration.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, February 25, 2024

At last! We’ve had a week with more dry days than wet ones. While there’s been some rain, it didn’t last long. Neither did the hail storm that came through.  The first four days of the week saw temperatures exceeding 50F (10C) while the past three the temperature struggled to reach 46F (8C). Today, it’s another overcast day, but no rain is in the forecast.

The price of gasoline (petrol) remained the same this week a £1.42  liter, while diesel edged up another penny to £1.52. As a result, and with the current exchange rate between the pound and the dollar, an equivalent U.S. gallon of gasoline is now $6.80, an increase of four cents, while diesel topped out at $7.25, climbing seven cents.

“When all else fails, write what your heart tells you. You can’t depend on your eyes, when your imagination is out of focus.” – Mark Twain. https://press.barnesandnoble.com/bnpress-blog/inspirational-quotes-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on February 25, the fourth and final Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Friedrich von Spee, German writer; Pierre Antoine Motteux, French-born English dramatist; Karl Ludwig, Freiherr von Pöllnitz, German adventurer and writer; Carlo Goldoni, Italian playwright and librettist (Belisario, Servant of Two Masters); Karl Wilhelm Ramler, German poet (Geistliche Kantaten); Simon Stijl, Frisian physician and writer; Taras Shevchenko, Ukrainian national poet and painter; Otto Liebmann, German philosopher (Climax of Theories); Karl May, German writer (Old Shatterhand, Winnetou); John Watson, Canadian philosopher (Objective Idealism); Cesário Verde, Portuguese poet; William Ashley, English economic historian (The Economic Organisation of England); Benedetto Croce, Italian historian, editor philosopher and politician (La Critica); Max Kommerell, German literary critic (Die Gefangenen); Adelle Davis, American nutritionist and author (Let’s Stay Healthy); Mary Coyle Chase, American playwright (Harvey 1945 Pulitzer Prize); Sabahattin Ali, Turkish poet, author and journalist (Esirler, Içimizdeki Şeytan); Frank G. Slaughter [C.V. Terry], American novelist and physician (Sangaree); Edgar Pangborn, American sci-fi author (Judgment of Eve, Davy); John Evan “Jasper” Weston-Davies [pen name Berkley Mather], English writer; Anthony Burgess, British novelist and essayist (A Clockwork Orange); Gérard Bessette, Canadian author; Larry Gelbart, American television writer, playwright, director and author, best known as creator and producer of M*A*S*H; Richard Stern, American writer; Erica Pedretti, writer; Shivadhar Srinivasa Naipaul, Trinidad, novelist, essayist (Fireflies); F Xaver Kroetz, writer; Aldo Busi, Italian writer; and John Doe [Duchac], American poet, songwriter, and cow-punk musician (X; The Knitters).

Any names familiar to you? There were two again for me this time: Anthony Burgess and Larry Gelbart. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I previously mentioned, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. I’m slowly typing up and posted them to the two online subscription writing sites I use. This week, I finished chapters twenty-eight and twenty-nine, and began work on chapter thirty.

Reviewers provided another fifteen critiques, bringing the total to 527. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Bashari glanced at his wife and smiled. “Our tenure in Europe resulted in changes in the family. We picked up several Western ideas and values. Our children learned them as well, which is why Shatara is more outspoken than most Yemeni women.”

“It is good for her to have an open mind. Likewise, it will help Zahid to blend into other cultures.”

Bashari nodded. “As always, you’re wisdom speaks volumes, Yasmin.” He frowned. “However, the current situation in Yemen is not one used to people speaking their minds.”

“What are your plans now?” Sear tapped the side of his head. “ I mean once we recover Shatara?”

“I shall return to work. I’ve been asked to spend more time preserving Yemen’s heritage. Many of the locations are now identified as UNESCO world cultural sites, although the fighting stops everyone except those who are the bravest to visit them. I am hoping Zahid will work with me. There are many spots which haven’t received the UNESCO linkage but are still of importance to the country.”

Sear nodded. “Who do you think is holding Shatara, and where?”

“As with many Yemenis who do not agree with the fighting between the Saudis and the Houthis, I have made enemies. It is possible some of the Houthis, especially those embedded with Ansar Allah, might have taken her to teach me a lesson. I refuse to aid them in their cause, which I believe is counter-productive as they are pro-Iranian. They want to take over all of Yemen and attack the United States, Israel, and Saudi Arabia. While I do not subscribe to the tenets followed by the Saudis and Israel, we need to learn to live together in peace, not aggression. Moderation is the key to living together, not just here but everywhere.”

Sear pursed his lips. “Do you find your opinions in the minority?”

“Yes, I do. However, this is something I believe in, and I shall do my best to assist my country in becoming a prosperous nation where people with differing opinions can still share viewpoints without killing one another.”

“I hope I don’t offend you, Bashari, but don’t you think you have a rather simplistic viewpoint of the world?”

Bashari glanced at his wife and laughed. “Yes, I support I do. However, living in Europe taught both of us it is better to live together with mutual respect rather than always fighting.”

Sear nodded. “I suppose you’re right. So where do you think those who kidnapped Shatara are holding her?”

“I have given this some thought, and I believe they will be found in the more remote areas. Of course, I could be mistaken.” He studied Sear’s face. “I hope you will do whatever you can to bring our daughter back to us. “He glanced at Yasmin. “Alive.”

Sear nodded. “I will do everything possible to bring her back to you.” But I’m not sure what I can do by myself, and Vincent said no foreign support given the current situation in-country. He rubbed his stubble. “I might need some assistance. Do you know where I can find some guys experienced with fighting?”

Bashari and Yasmin glanced at each other and smiled.

“My late husband’s family wants revenge for his death. He had four brothers, and they have some grown-up sons who will want to help.”

“Okay.” Would prefer qualified fighters, but I can’t be choosy. He glanced at Bashari. “How about you?”

“I have two older brothers. They both have two sons, and all are experienced fighters.” He put up a hand and counted fingers as he stared at the ceiling. “I can also count on eight cousins.”

“Where do they live?”

“They are all in the Aden area—they’re fishermen. But I know they will help.”

At least eighteen. Will it be enough? Sear studied Bashari and Yasmin’s faces. “Should it be necessary for you and your family to leave Yemen once I find Shatara, will you be able to do so?”

“Yes. I shall do whatever is necessary to keep my family together. I made many friends in Europe, and I am sure they will help us begin a new life.” Bashari sighed. “Compared to most Yemenis, we are considered wealthy. But wealth brings its own dangers. I also know a secret that might be useful as a bargaining chip.” He stared at Sear. “But it might be dangerous.”

“What is that?”

“There is a Saudi faction living in Yemen. They are trying to keep a damaging secret from the rest of Saudi Arabia and moderates in Yemen. If their secret is revealed, the truth will pit family against family, brother against brother, until the sands are colored with blood.”

More next time.

I also continued working on The Great Rebellion – Finn Harding Book One.  It’s a romantic alternate history of the American Civil War. I ‘m tweaking chapter five, originally written by my co-author, and hope to send it to him over the next week for consideration.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, February 18, 2024

We’ve had a week of above-normal temperatures. What did this bring us? Obviously, a bit of warmth, but also plenty of cloudy skies and some rain. There has been the occasional outbreak of sunshine, too. At least forecasts for the dreaded ‘s’ word have disappeared.

The price of gasoline (petrol) and diesel continued to edge upward this week, with gasoline adding three pence a liter to £1.42 and while diesel increased by another four pence to £1.51. As a result, and with the current exchange rate between the pound and the dollar, an equivalent U.S. gallon of gasoline is now $6.76, an increase of fifteen cents, while diesel topped out at $7.18, climbing nineteen cents.

“Keep asking questions because people will always want to know the answer. Open with a question and don’t answer it until the end.” – Lee Child. Compliments of https://press.barnesandnoble.com/bnpress-blog/inspirational-quotes-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on February 18, the third Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Isaac Casaubon, naturalized English classical scholar and theologian (Athenaeus); Charles-Irénée Castel de Saint-Pierre, French writer; Giovanni Battista Brocchi, Italian naturalist and geologist (Conchiologia fossile subappennina); Thomas D. Doubleday, American bookstore owner and Union Army officer; Rebecca Lee Crumpler, American physician and medical writer (first African American woman to receive a medical degree); Wilson Barrett, British manager, actor, and playwright (The Sign of the Cross); Alexander Lange Kielland, Norwegian writer (Gist; Fortuna; St. Hans Fest), and politician (mayor; governor); Hedwig Courths-Mahler, German Romantic novelist whose novels sold 80 million copies (Warbride); William Laurel Harris, American mural painter, writer; Níkos Kazantzákis, prominent Greek writer and philosopher (Zorba the Greek, The Last Temptation of Christ); Lauri Haarla, Finnish writer (Juudas, Sukeltaja); Wendell Wilkie, American Presidential candidate (R-1940)/author (One World); Andre Breton, French writer and poet, founder of Surrealism; Luis Muñoz Marín, Puerto Rican poet; Arthur Bryant, English historian (King Charles II); Wallace Stegner, American novelist and critic (Pulitzer-1972 for Angle of Repose); Helen Gurley Brown, American author/publisher and editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan; Juhan Smuul, Estonian author; Evald Ilyenkov, Soviet philosopher (Dialectical Logic); Leonard Cyril Deighton, English author (Ipcress File, Fighter); Gahan Wilson, American author and cartoonist known as the “Michelangelo of the Macabre”; Toni Morrison, American writer (Tar Baby, Beloved, Song of Solomon), first African American woman to win a Nobel Prize (2010); Audre Lorde, American writer, feminist and activist (Black Unicorn); Jean M. Auel, Finnish-American writer (Earth’s Children series); Elke Erb, German writer; Graeme Garden, Scottish writer (The Goodies); and Miles Tredinnick, English playwright.

Any names familiar to you? There were two for me this time: Wendell Wilkie and Leonard Cyril Deighton. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I previously mentioned, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. I’m slowly typing up and posted them to the two online subscription writing sites I use. This week, I finished chapter twenty-seven and began work on chapter twenty-eight.

Reviewers provided another seven critiques, bringing the total to 512. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Sear glared at Parvez. “Who were you talking with on the phone?”

“No one—at least no one you would know, Sayyid.”

Sear turned at the sound of feet approaching.

Wasim and Malik rushed through the door onto the roof. They hurried to Parvez’s side and grabbed his arms.

“Check his phone.” Sear pointed to Parvez’s pocket. He was talking with someone and won’t say who it is.”

“Hold him, Wasim.” Malik yanked out Parvez’s phone and accessed the call list. As he scanned the numbers, he relaxed. I recognize the last number called—it’s Tarik’s.” He glanced at Parvez. “Why were you talking with him?”

Parvez jerked his arm free from Wasim as he glared at Malik. “It is not any of your business, but I talk with Tarik from time to time—letting him know when there are strangers, especially foreigners, in this area.”

“You better be telling me the truth. I will ask Tarik the next time I see him.”

Parvez nodded. “Go ahead—he will vouch for me.”

Sear glanced at Wasim and Malik. “Let him go.”

“Do you still want me to cook?” Parvez stared at Sear.

“Perhaps later. For now, just more tea and coffee.”

“As you wish, Sayyid.”

Sear turned and stepped through the doorway, down the stairs, and returned to the divan.

After frowning at Parvez, Wasim and Malik followed Sear.

Malik sat across from the others and patted his rumbling stomach. “What about food? I am hungry.”

“Do you think we can trust Parvez not to poison us?” Sear rubbed his chin.

“Of course.” Malik grinned. “I will stand next to him in the kitchen to ensure nothing untoward happens.”

In that case, I’m hungry, too.”

More next time.

I also continued working on The Great Rebellion – Finn Harding Book One.  It’s a romantic alternate history of the American Civil War. I finished chapter four and sent it to my co-author for his feedback.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, February 11, 2024

As we rapidly move towards the middle of the month, the weather continues to create some issues. While we had a forecast of snow for our region, it missed us, although other parts of the UK were hit. During the week, we had wind gusts exceeding fifty-five MPH, but fortunately, there didn’t appear to be must damage.  At the moment, there’s a light rain, which is expected to be around most of the day.

The price of gasoline (petrol) and diesel both edged upward this week, with gasoline adding two pence a liter to £1.39 and diesel increased by another penny to £1.47. As a result, and with the current exchange rate between the pound and the dollar, an equivalent U.S. gallon of gasoline is now $6.61, an increase of seven cents, while diesel topped out at $6.99, climbing four cents.

Last weekend’s small business market was a quiet event, but the mall was devoid of the normal weekend traffic. Even so, we did okay. I sold thirteen autographed novels, while Sylvia sold fourteen laminated poetry sheets, eleven bookmarks, and one poetry book. The next market will be held the beginning of March, and we hope to see more shoppers browsing the stalls.

“When all else fails, write what your heart tells you. You can’t depend on your eyes, when your imagination is out of focus.” – Mark Twain. Compliments of https://press.barnesandnoble.com/bnpress-blog/inspirational-quotes-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on February 11, the second Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

John Wtenbogaert, Dutch theologist (Kerckelicke history); Honoré d’Urfé, French writer; Bernard Le Bovier Fontenelle, French scientist and writer (Plurality of Worlds); Marie-Joseph de Chénier, French poet (Caïus Gracchus); Lydia Maria Child, American author, journalist and abolitionist (Juvenile Miscellany); Otto Ludwig, German writer and critic; Hermann Allmers, German poet (Feldeinsamkeit); Rachilde [Marguerite Vallette-Eymery], French author (Monsieur Venus); Else Lasker-Schüler, German writer; Elsa Beskow, Swedish children’s author and illustrator (Tale of the Little Little Old Woman); John van Melle, South African writer (Bart Nel); Beb Vuyk, Dutch-Indonesian writer (Camp Diary); E. W. Swanton, English author and sports commentator (cricket – BBC Radio); Sutan Takdir Alishahbana, Indonesian linguist and writer (Poedjangga Baroe); Roy Fuller, English poet and novelist (Lost Season); Patrick Leigh Fermor, English soldier and travel writer (A Time of Gifts); Sidney Sheldon, American novelist and playwright (Master of the Game, Bloodline, The Bachelor and the Bobby Soxer); Daniel F. Galouye, American sci-fi author (Dark Universe, Last Leap); Larry Merchant, American boxing author and analyst (International Boxing Hall of Fame; HBO, Showtime); Jerome Lowenthal, American concert pianist, and educator (Julliard; Jerusalem Academy of Music); Lodewijk Boer, Dutch violist, librettist, actor, and playwright (The Family); Jane Yolen, American sci-fi and children’s literature author and poet (Spider Jane; Heart’s Blood); Susan Bernard, American author, actress (Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!) Playboy playmate (Dec, 1966); Wesley Strick, American screenwriter; Mo Willems, American author and screenwriter (Sesame Street); and Julio Torres, Salvadoran writer and comedian (Saturday Night Live, Los Espookys).

Any names familiar to you? There was one for me this time: Sidney Sheldon. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I previously mentioned, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. I’m slowly typing up and posted them to the two online subscription writing sites I use. Other things got in the way so I didn’t finish typing and posting chapter twenty-seven as I had planned.

Reviewers provided another six critiques, bringing the total to 505. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Prince Hussein sat behind the desk and pulled out an iPad from a drawer. After logging in, he checked for new emails. There was one:

Hello, brother! I will be with you in two days. I hope you are planning a good party for me.

Prince Hussein grimaced as he typed. I hope so, too. But you better start following the plan.

Someone knocked on the door.

Now what? “Come in.”

Yusuf entered. “Excuse me, Prince Hussein. I wanted to give you an update on the attendees for Prince Sami’s party.”

“Hmm.” Prince Hussein frowned. “Go ahead.”

“Many of those in the diplomatic community are afraid to attend because of your connection to the Saudi royal family. They believe their attendance will indicate approval of what Saudi Arabia is doing in Yemen.”

“As expected. Continue.”

“China, Pakistan, and Malaysia have all accepted the invitation. I expect to hear from Russia and some others soon.”

Prince Hussein nodded. “What about local dignitaries?”

“So far, only the chief of police has accepted. But I’m still waiting for word from some of the cabinet. Of course, the prime minister declined, as expected.”

“What about the entertainment?”

Yusuf grinned. “Wazir and I have secured several young people who will perform as required.”

“That should please Prince Sami.” Wish he’d get over his predilection for public orgies. “Do what is necessary to give him a pleasing show—but not too graphic.” He waved a hand in dismissal.

“As you so order, Prince Hussein.” Yusuf bowed and left the office. He walked along the corridor and joined Wazir. “Everything is going to plan. If we are fortunate, Prince Sami will be indebted to us and grant us the favor we desire.”

Wazir nodded. “To be free of the tragedies befalling Yemen would be most pleasing. However, do you think things would be better for us in Saudi Arabia?”

“No way to know for sure. But if Ansar Allah finds out we are helping Prince Hussein, they will execute us after we are flogged to within an inch of our lives.” Yusuf’s body shook. “Then our bodies will be paraded through the streets as a warning to others.”

More next time.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please send me a note. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, February 4, 2024

The weather has returned to normal parameters–clouds, rain, and wind with an occasional outbreak of sunshine. Right now, we have gusts up to 33 mph, or as the locals would say, a fresh breeze. The rain has started again and is supposed to be with us most of the day.

The price of gasoline (petrol) remained the same at £1.37 to a liter, while diesel increased a penny to £1.46. Meanwhile, the exchange rate has tilted in the favor of the pound against the dollar. As a result, a liter of gasoline decreased four cents to $6.54, while a liter of diesel dropped a cent to $6.95.

The monthly small business market began on Friday and finished today. So far, I’ve sold ten autographed novels, while Sylvia has sold eleven of her laminated poetry sheets and seven of her bookmarks. Considering the mall has been quiet, these are decent numbers.

“If you are in difficulties with a book, try the element of surprise: attack it at an hour when it isn’t expecting it.” – H.G. Wells. Compliments of https://press.barnesandnoble.com/bnpress-blog/inspirational-quotes-writing/.

I received good news on Monday.

Ultimate Escalation, which is competing for the 2023 Chanticleer International Global Thriller Book Awards, has move from the  short list to the semi-finals. There’s still a long way to go in the competition, with the finals, the announcement of the seven first in category winners, and the genre grand prize winner.  The final results won’t be announced until 20 April 2024 at the annual Chanticleer Authors’ Conference, but I’ll keep posting updates as Ultimate Escalation moves through the competition.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on February 4, the first Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Franciscus Aguilon, Belgian Jesuit physicist, mathematician and architect (book on Optics “Opticorum Libri Sex); Jakob Balde, German poet (Jephthe); Isaac Newton, English physicist, mathematician and astronomer (Gravity, Laws of Motion); Henrik Constantijn Cras, Dutch lawyer (Laudatio Hugonis Grotii; Jacob Grimm, German philologist, folklorist and editor of “Grimm’s Fairy Tales”; Louis Braille, French educator and inventor of a system of reading and writing for the blind; Isaac Pitman, English teacher and inventor of Pitman shorthand (Stenographic Soundhand); Casimiro de Abreu, Brazil, poet (Meus oito anos), novelist and playwright (Camoes e o jau); Svend Fleuron, Danish writer; Alfred Edgar Coppard, English short story writer (Black Dogs & Other Stories); Wilhelm Lehmbruck, German painter, poet and sculptor (Seated Youth); Max Eastman, American critic/essayist and editor of The Masses; Lourens Baas Becking, Dutch botanist (Baas Becking hypothesis); C. L. R. James [Cyril Lionel Robert James], Trinidadian historian (The Black Jacobins), journalist, intellectual and socialist; Amitai W Etzioni, US sociologist (Active Society); Gao Xingjian, Chinese-born French novelist and dramatist, Nobel laureate, years); Doris Kearns Goodwin, American historian and writer (Team of Rivals, No Ordinary Time); Alicia Garza, American writer and civil rights activist (co-founded #BlackLivesMatter); and Nabila Jamshed, Indian writer.

Any names familiar to you? There three for me this time: Jacob Grimm, Louis Braille, and Isaac Pitman. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I previously mentioned, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. I’m slowly typing up and posted them to the two online subscription writing sites I use. This week I completed, chapter twenty-six and about half of chapter twenty-seven.

Reviewers provided another thirteen critiques, bringing the total to 499. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

I’ll have to wait until next time to post another snippet as I need to head to the mall for the final day of the small business market.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please send me a note. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, January 28, 2024

Over the past week, we’ve seen temperatures return to more seasonable averages. Of course, this means instead of cold weather and clear blue skies, we’re back to warmer temperatures, overcast skies, and rain. Oh well ….

There’s been another change to the price of gasoline (petrol) and diesel this week. Gasoline increased another  penny to £1.37 a liter, while diesel  increased a penny to £1.45. Meanwhile, the exchange rate has tilted in the favor of the pound against the dollar. As a result, a liter of gasoline increased four cents to $6.58, while a liter of diesel rose  four cents to $6.96.

“The writer is an explorer. Every step is an advance into a new land.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson. Compliments of https://press.barnesandnoble.com/bnpress-blog/inspirational-quotes-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on January 28, the fourth and final Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Thomas Aquinas, Italian theologian, Philosopher and Doctor of the Church (Summa Theologica); ohn Barclay, Scottish satirist writer and poet (Euphormio’s Satyricon); John Baskerville, English printer and type designer (printer to the University of Cambridge); Johann Elias Schlegel, German critic and poet; Henry Morton Stanley, Welsh journalist and African explorer (found Livingstone in Africa); ose Martí y Perez, Cuban poet, essayist and politician (fought for independence from Spain); Colette, French author, novelist (Gigi, La Vagabonde) and actress; Ernst Rabel, Austrian-American lawyer, human rights activist, and author (The Conflict of Laws: A Comparative Study); Marthe Bibesco, Romanian writer; Camille Melloy [Paepe], Belgian poet (Parfum des Buis); Valentin Kataev, novelist/playwright (Embezzled); Wies Moens, Flemish writer and historian; A. A. M. Stols, Dutch publisher (History of Ecuador); Hermann Kesten, German writer (Allert de Lange); David John Lodge, British writer and literary critic (Soul & Bodies); Manuel dos Santos Lima, Angolan revolutionary and poet (Pele do Diabo); Bette Howland [Lee Sotonoff], American writer and literary critic (Blue in Chicago, The iron year); Ken Hill, English playwright and director; Rick Warren, American pastor and author; Harley Jane Kozak, American actress and writer (Arachnophobia, Necessary Roughness); Robert von Dassanowsky, American cultural historian, writer, and producer; and David Zingler, American writer.

Any names familiar to you? There were two for me this time: Thomas Aquinas and Henry Morton Stanley. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I previously mentioined, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. This week, I typed up and posted chapter twenty-five to the two online subscription writing sites I use. I also did about half of chapter twenty-six.

Reviewers provided another twelve critiques, bringing the total to 486. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Prince Hussein peered through the branches of the date palms at the two young women. That Shatara is a feisty one. She would make someone a decent wife, but that would ruin my plans for her. He sipped from a glass of tea as he watched them.

“Excuse me, Prince Hussein.”

The prince turned and glanced at the young male servant.

The boy held a letter in a shaking hand. “This came for you a few minutes ago by a special rider.”

The prince took the envelope and waved a hand to dismiss the youth. What’s this? He tore open the letter.

My dear Prince Hussein,

Beware. There are eyes on you, which might make things difficult. Tread carefully so you keep below the National Security Bureau’s radar. Otherwise, you might face the same charge as Hamed Kamal Muhammad bin Haydara of being a destroyer of Islam, who was fortunate to avoid public execution.

My friends and I shall do our utmost to protect you and those around you but do not dally in your efforts to advance Saudi interests at the expense of Yemeni peace and prosperity.

A friend.

Prince Hussein tore the letter into small pieces before wadding them together and shoving it into his pocket. Who is this friend? What does he know about my real plans? He shook his head. I must convince Shatara to sign the document accusing her father of supporting Ansar Allah.

He poured the rest of his tea over the balcony and returned to his office.

***

At the signal from Prince Hussein, one of the guards, who pretended to be asleep, stood and walked over to the women, his chest puffed out. He gave them a toothless smile before pointing at the book. “What is this?”

Shatara glanced at him. “It’s The Poetry of Arab Women from the Pre-Islamic Age to Andalusia. Prince Hussein gave it to me as a present.”

“Did the prince give you permission to read to this person?” The guard pointed at Uzza. “She does not need her head filled with nonsense. Her role in society is fixed—she will be married and bear many sons for her husband. She will take care of his needs, so do not fill her head with crazy ideas.”

Shatara glared at him. “This book is not nonsense. It has important implications for the fields of world and Arabic literature as well as gender and women’s studies.”

He grabbed the book away from her. “I shall keep this until I can confer with Prince Hussein.”

Shatara reached for the book, hitting the guard’s hand.

He swung a fist at her, striking her face and almost knocking her to the ground.

With a defiant glare, she stood and rubbed the area, without saying a word.

The guard pointed to the door. “Go back inside. Your time in the courtyard is over. Prince Hussein shall hear of your insolence.”

More next time.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please send me a note. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

 

 

 

Randall’s Ramblings, January 21, 2024

After a mostly sunny and cold week with plenty of morning frost, overcast skies and ran have returned. Storm Isha is preparing to hit the UK later today and the Met office issued an amber weather warning.  Winds are expected to reach 60-70 mph in inland areas while along the coasts they could reach 70-80 mph.  Right now, there’s a gentle rain with gusts reaching 35 mph. Good day to stay inside!

There’s been another change to the price of gasoline (petrol) and diesel this week. Gasoline increased a penny to £1.36 a liter, while diesel decreased a penny to £1.44 . Meanwhile, the exchange rate has tilted in the favor of the pound against the dollar. As a result, a liter of gasoline rose four cents to $6.54, while a liter of diesel dropped three cents to $6.92.

“Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine and at last you create what you will.” – George Bernard Shaw. Compliments of https://press.barnesandnoble.com/bnpress-blog/inspirational-quotes-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on January 21, the third Sunday of the month and of 2024. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

John Isacius Pontanus, Dutch physicist and historian (1st history of Amsterdam); Tsjalling Hiddes Halbertsma, Dutch Frisian story teller (Rhymes & Tales); John Gelinde van Blom, Dutch Frisian notary and poet; Eliza Roxcy Snow, American poet; Imre Madách, Hungarian writer; Ludwig Thoma, German writer; Egon Friedell, Austrian journalist, actor and writer (Kleine Portratgalerie, Der Partylowe); Olav Aukrust, Norwegian poet (advocated literary use of Nynorsk); Richard P. Blackmur, American critic and poet (Good European); “Ossie” O.S. Stevens Nock, English railway writer,; John Putz, British journalist (Guardian); Rohan Butler, English historian;Vincent Placoly, Martinique, writer (L’eau-de-mort guildive); Louis Menand, American writer and critic; and Forrest Gander, American poet (Be With – 2019 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry).

Any names familiar to you? There weren’t any for me this time. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I previously mentioined, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. This week, I typed up and posted chapter twenty-four to the two online subscription writing sites I use. I also did about half of chapter twenty-five.

Reviewers provided another fifteen critiques, bringing the total to 474. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Uzza knocked on the door to Shatara’s room before putting the key in the lock. After opening the door, she pushed it open. Where is she?

Moments later, she heard the toilet flush. Oh.

Shatara entered the room and stopped. “Oh! I didn’t hear you come in.”

“That is okay.” Uzza smiled. “I have a surprise for you.”

“What is it?”

“Prince Hussein has given us permission to have our breakfast in the courtyard. We can stay for one hour.” Uzza wrinkled her nose. “Of course, someone will monitor us.” She turned toward the door. “Oh, do not forget your hijab.”

Shatara wrinkled her nose. “If we are just going to be in the courtyard, why must we wear it?”

“You know.” Uzza laughed. “We must protect our modesty from those to whom we are not related.”

Shatara sighed as she placed the white hijab over her head. “Understood. It’s just at home I didn’t have to wear it unless I left the house.” She toyed with the headscarf until her head, neck, and ears were covered. “I’m ready.”

Uzza unlocked the door, and they stepped into the corridor. She pointed to the right. “The stairs to the outside are at the end of the hall.” She walked along the corridor and climbed the stairs.” Cover your eyes—the sun will be bright for you.”

“Yes, thank you.” Shatara pulled the edge of the hijab over her eyes. “Even covering my eyes, it is very bright, and it hurts them.”

“Give me your hand. I’ll lead you to the table, which is protected by the branches of the date palm trees.” Uzza took Shatara’s hand and guided her.

“Oh! I can feel the temperature drop. We must be under the trees.” Shatara uncovered her eyes and glanced around. “What a beautiful courtyard. I love the fountain.”

“The fountain is beautiful but much better when the water is working.” Uzza pointed to a chair. “Please have a seat. I brought the food out earlier, so we’re ready to eat.”

After Shatara sat, she continued to scan the area. “I see there are two guards, but they both appeared to be asleep in their chairs. Their weapons are propped against the wall.”

“Do not tempt fate. If you move toward the wall, they will jump to their feet, grab their weapons and point them at you.”

Shatara grinned. “I was going to ask how easy it would be to climb the wall.”

“Even if the guards were not here and you could climb over it, you still would not be free. Prince Hussein owns the properties on either side of this one and behind it, too.” Uzza pointed to the one over the left wall. “He maintains his office in this building but lives in that one.”

“Have you ever been there?”

Uzza shook her head. “No. I know the prince entertains local dignitaries there, but I’ve never been invited to visit.”

“Hmm.” Shatara studied the wall again. “I am sure I could climb it. As a child, I loved to climb the date palms around our compound and jump onto the wall. I pretended I was climbing a mountain and could see for miles.”

Uzza laughed as she reached for a covered plate. “Let’s eat—I’m hungry.” She lifted the cover. “Shakshouka—one of my favorites.”

“Mine, too.” Shatara smiled. I love how the color of the scrambled eggs is offset by the red tomato sauce. The spicier the shakshouka is, the better for me.”

“I agree.” Uzza gestured toward a covered bowl. “Cook made more masoub to go with it and milk tea for us to drink.”

Shatara loaded a fork with eggs and brought it to her mouth, blowing on the steaming food before taking a tentative bite. “Fantastic!”

“Will you read to me after we eat?” Uzza pushed Shatara’s book across the table.

Shatara’s eyes narrowed. “Where did you get this?”

“While you were in the bathroom, I picked it up. I hope you do not mind.”

“I guess not. But next time, ask me first, okay?”

More next time.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please send me a note. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, January 14, 2023

It’s been a dry, mainly sunny week, but cold, with the temperatures struggling to reach 41F (5C). Today, it’s cloudy with a few outbreaks of sunshine. However, the forecast is showing snow, particularly north of us, where it’s already falling, although just light at the moment.  Of course, it is that time of year where we can expect to see some snow.

There was a slight change to the price of gasoline (petrol) and diesel this week. Gasoline dropped  penny to £1.35 a liter, while diesel increased a penny to £1.45.  Meanwhile, the exchange rate has tilted in the favor of the pound against the dollar. As a result, a liter of gasoline dropped four cents to $6.50, while a liter of diesel rose three cents to $6.95.

Published Works

Revenge received a 5/5 (highly recommended) review from Chanticleer Book Reviews this week. Needless to say, I’m thrilled to share this with you. It was one of the first place winners in the 2022 Chanticleer International Global Thriller Awards for High Stakes Suspense.  If you’re interested in reading the review, click on the title for the link. Here’s the final line of the review: Lovers of Lee Child and Tom Clancy will appreciate Krzak’s world-building, the detailed scenarios, and the daring rescues put forth by his heroic characters.

“Ideas are like rabbits. You get a couple and learn how to handle them, and pretty soon you have a dozen.” ― John Steinbeck. Compliments of https://www.inc.com/glenn-leibowitz/50-quotes-from-famous-authors-that-will-inspire-yo.html.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on January 14, the second Sunday of the month and of 2024. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Isaac da Costa, Jewish poet; Harmen Sytstra, Dutch poet and editor (Iduna); Zacharias Topelius, Finnish historical novelist (Surgeon’s Stories); Pierre Loti, French naval officer and novelist; J. F. Archibald, Australian journalist and publisher; Wilhelm von Polenz, German writer (Der Pfarrer von Breitendorf); Thornton W. Burgess, American conservationist and author (The Bedtime Story-Books; Now I Remember: Autobiography of an Amateur Naturalist); Albert Schweitzer, Alsatian theologian and writer (Nobel 1954); Victor Segalen, French naval doctor and writer; Hendrik Willem van Loon, Dutch-American historian and writer (Story of America); Hugh Lofting, English writer and illustrator (Dr. Doolittle); George Richard Samways, English children’s writer; John dos Passos, American novelist (Manhattan Transfer; The 42nd Parallel; Nineteen Nineteen; The Big Money), poet, and painter; F. C. Terborgh [Reijnier Flaes], Dutch writer (De Turkenoorlog); Emily Hahn, American journalist and author; Anatoly Rybakov, Russian writer; Tillie Olsen, American writer (Tell Me a Riddle); Dudley Randall, African-American poet who founded the pioneering publishing house “Broadside Press”; John Oliver Killens, American writer; Yukio Mishima, Japanese novelist (Temple of Golden Pavilion); Mahasweta Devi, Indian Bengali writer and activist; Mary Robison, American writer (Why Did I Ever); Maureen Dowd, American writer; Sydney Biddle Barrows, American madam and author (Mayflower Madam); Anchee Min, Chinese writer; and Steven Soderbergh, American producer, director, writer (Ocean’s Eleven, Traffic).

Any names familiar to you? There weren’t any for me this time. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I mentioned last time, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. This week, I typed up and posted chapter twenty-three to the two online subscription writing sites I use. I also did about half of chapter twenty-four.

Reviewers provided another seven critiques, bringing the total to 459. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Sear glared at Parvez. “Who were you talking with on the phone?”

“No one—at least no one you would know, Sayyid.”

Sear turned at the sound of feet approaching.

Wasim and Malik rushed through the door onto the roof. They hurried to Parvez’s side and grabbed his arms.

“Check his phone.” Sear pointed to Parvez’s pocket. “He was talking with someone and won’t say who it is.”

“Hold him, Wasim.” Malik yanked out Parvez’s phone and accessed the call list. As he scanned the numbers, he relaxed. I recognize the last number called—it’s Tarik’s.” He glanced at Parvez. “Why were you talking with him?”

Parvez jerked his arm free from Wasim as he glared at Malik. “It is not any of your business, but I talk with Tarik from time to time—letting him know when there are strangers, especially foreigners, in this area.”

“You better be telling me the truth. I will ask Tarik the next time I see him.”

Parvez nodded. “Go ahead—he will vouch for me.”

Sear glanced at Wasim and Malik. “Let him go.”

“Do you still want me to cook?” Sear stared at Parvez.

“Perhaps later. For now, just more tea and coffee.”

“As you wish, Sayyid.”

Sear turned and stepped through the doorway, down the stairs, and returned to the divan.

After frowning at Parvez, Wasim and Malik followed Sear.

Malik sat across from the others and patted his rumbling stomach. “What about food? I am hungry.”

“Do you think we can trust Parvez not to poison us?” Sear rubbed his chin.

“Of course.” Malik grinned. “I will stand next to him in the kitchen to ensure nothing untoward happens.”

In that case, I’m hungry, too.”

More next time.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, January 7, 2024

After several rain-filled days, we’ve had clear skies since Friday evening. Of course, this brought heavy frost both on Saturday and Sunday mornings with temperatures struggling to reach above 32F (0C). The frost makes everything glisten as if there was snow, but so far that’s stayed away.

No change this week to the price of gasoline (petrol) and diesel, remaining at 1.36 and 1.44 a liter respectively. Same with the exchange rate. Thus a liter of gasoline is still $6.54, while a liter of diesel is 6.92.

“You should write because you love the shape of stories and sentences and the creation of different words on a page. Writing comes from reading, and reading is the finest teacher of how to write.” –Annie Proulx. Compliments of https://www.inc.com/glenn-leibowitz/50-quotes-from-famous-authors-that-will-inspire-yo.html.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on January 7, the first Sunday of the month and of 2024. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Sebastian de Covarrubias Horozco, Spanish lexicographer (Treasury of Castilian or Spanish Language); James Harrington, English author and political theorist of classical republicanism (The Commonwealth of Oceana);Pavao Vitezovic, Croatia, writer and historian; Johann Heinrich Zedler, German publisher; Theodor Aufrecht, German linguist, Indologist and translator (Rigveda’s Hymns); Zora Neale Hurston, American writer (Their Eyes Were Watching God); Albrecht Haushofer, German geographer and writer; Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Pakistani poet; Hugh Kenner, Canadian literary critic; William Peter Blatty, American scriptwriter and author of The Exorcist; Edward) Hunter Davies, Scottish-British journalist, author (The Beatles: The Authorised Biography), and broadcaster; Jann Wenner, American magazine publisher (Rolling Stone); Shobha De, Indian columnist & novelist; Frans Kellendonk, Dutch novelist (Bouwval (Ruin); Mystiek lichaam (Mystical Body); Giuliano Ferrara, Italian politician, journalist and founding editor (Il Foglio); Katie Couric, American journalist & author (Today); Nicholson Baker, American novelist; Donna Rice Hughes, American author & speaker; and Georgi Gospodinov, Bulgarian writer (Time Shelter – 2023 International Booker prize).

Any names familiar to you? There was one for me, Katie Couric. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

As I mentioned last time, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2 during the Xmas market. This week, I typed up and posted chapter twenty-two to the two online subscription writing sites I use. I also did about half of chapter twenty-three.

Reviewers provided another ten critiques, bringing the total to 452. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

Here’s another snippet:

Prince Hussein sat behind the desk and pulled out an iPad from a drawer. After logging in, he checked for new emails. There was one:

Hello, brother! I will be with you in two days. I hope you are planning a good party for me.

Prince Hussein grimaced as he typed. I hope so, too. But you better start following the plan.

Someone knocked on the door.

Now what? “Come in.”

Yusuf entered. “Excuse me, Prince Hussein. I wanted to give you an update on the attendees for Prince Sami’s party.”

“Hmm.” Prince Hussein frowned. “Go ahead.”

“Many of those in the diplomatic community are afraid to attend because of your connection to the Saudi royal family. They believe their attendance will indicate approval of what Saudi Arabia is doing in Yemen.”

“As expected. Continue.”

“China, Pakistan, and Malaysia have all accepted the invitation. I expect to hear from Russia and some others soon.”

Prince Hussein nodded. “What about local dignitaries?”

“So far, only the chief of police has accepted. But I’m still waiting for word from some of the cabinet. Of course, the prime minister declined, as expected.”

“What about the entertainment?”

Yusuf grinned. “Wazir and I have secured several young people who will perform as required.”

“That should please Prince Sami.” Wish he’d get over his predilection for public orgies. “Do what is necessary to give him a pleasing show—but not too graphic.” He waved a hand in dismissal.

“As you so order, Prince Hussein.” Yusuf bowed and left the office. He walked along the corridor and joined Wazir. “Everything is going to plan. If we are fortunate, Prince Sami will be indebted to us and grant us the favor we desire.”

Wazir nodded. “To be free of the tragedies befalling Yemen would be most pleasing. However, do you think things would be better for us in Saudi Arabia?”

“No way to know for sure. But if Ansar Allah finds out we are helping Prince Hussein, they will execute us after we are flogged to within an inch of our lives.” Yusuf’s body shook. “Then our bodies will be paraded through the streets as a warning to others.”

More next time.

I didn’t get a chance to continue working on The Great Rebellion – Finn Harding Book One.  It’s a romantic alternate history of the American Civil War, but hope to continue with chapter four over the next week.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2024 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

Randall’s Ramblings, December 31, 2023

Now that the last day of 2023 is upon us, I’d like to wish everyone a safe, joyous, prosperous and  healthy new year.

Happy 2024, everyone!

The past few weeks have been extremely busy, hence the lack of weekly posts. During the twenty-one days of the Xmas market, I sold 127 autographed copies of my books. Meanwhile, Sylvia sold almost 200 copies of her laminated poetry sheets and book marks. In addition, a dozen of her poetry books found new homes.

During the past ten days, our son visited from Washington, D.C. Although a short visit, it’s always great to have him with us. We miss him already!

Motorists received good news at the pumps during this period as there was another decrease in gasoline (petrol) prices, with a further six pence shaved off the price to £1.36 a liter. However, with the current exchange rate, the equivalent price of a U.S. gallon dropped twenty-six cents to $6.54. Meanwhile, diesel dropped a penny a liter to £1.44, a decrease of seven pence per liter, but with the exchange rate, this actually led to a decrease of thirty cents a gallon to $6.92.

“A book is made from a tree. It is an assemblage of flat, flexible parts (still called “leaves”) imprinted with dark pigmented squiggles. One glance at it and you hear the voice of another person, perhaps someone dead for thousands of years. Across the millennia, the author is speaking, clearly and silently, inside your head, directly to you. Writing is perhaps the greatest of human inventions, binding together people, citizens of distant epochs, who never knew one another. Books break the shackles of time–proof that humans can work magic.”
― Carl Sagan. Compliments of https://www.inc.com/glenn-leibowitz/50-quotes-from-famous-authors-that-will-inspire-yo.html.

I received good news on Friday.

Ultimate Escalation, which is competing for the 2023 Chanticleer International Global Thriller Book Awards, has move from the  long list to the short list. There’s still a long way to go in the competition, the semi-finals, the finals, the announcement of the seven first in category winners, and the genre grand prize winner.  The final results won’t be announced until 20 April 2024 at the annual Chanticleer Authors’ Conference, but I’ll keep posting updates as Ultimate Escalation moves through the competition.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on December 31st, the fourth and final Sunday of the month and of 2023. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/).

Andreas Vesalius, Flemish physician and anatomist (De humani corporis fabrica); Horacio Quiroga, Uruguayan playwright, poet, and short story writer (Anaconda, El Crimen del Otro)physician and anatomist (De humani corporis fabrica); Silvio Antoniano, Italian cardinal and theologist (Tre libri); Marie d’Agoult (Daniel Stern), French author (Knife); Giovanni Pascoli, Italian classicist & poet; Alfredo Panzini, Italian author (Dizionario Moderno); Lawrence Beesley, English journalist and author; Jacob Israël de Haan, Dutch poet/writer (Pipelines, Jewish Song); Max Lamberty, Flemish sociologist & author (Flemish Resurrection); Tadeusz Breza, Polish writer (The Bronze Gate); Dal Stivens, Australian novelist; Taylor Mead, American writer, actor and performer (Factory, Taylor Mead’s Ass); Dieter Noll, German writer (Die Abenteuer des Werner Holt); Veijo Meri, Finnish writer; Bob Shaw, Northern Irish sci-fi author (Light of Other Days, The Ragged Astronauts); Xavier Chamorro Cardenal, Nicaraguan journalist and newspaper editor (La Prensa; El Nuevo Diario); Edward Bunker, American Crime novelist (No Beast So Fierce; Animal Factory), actor (Straight Time; Reservoir Dogs), screenwriter, and felon; Rolf Haufs, German writer; Nicolas Born, German writer; Ellen Datlow, American editor; Susan Shwartz, American author; Nicholas Sparks, American author (The Notebook); and Junot Díaz, Dominican-American writer and professor (The Brief Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao – Pulitzer Prize for Fiction 2008).

Any names familiar to you? There weren’t any for me this time. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

During the Xmas market, I penned chapters 22-30 of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2. Now I have to type up the chapters and post them to the two online subscription writing sites I use. The challenge will be to decipher my writing!

Reviewers provided another sixteen critiques, bringing the total to 442. As always, they’ve provided plenty of recommendations for me to consider, and I’m always appreciative of the time and effort people put into reviewing my work.

I’ll resume posting snippets next time.

I’m continuing to work on the new project as a co-author with Michael Maxwell, the author of over thirty novels. The tentative title is The Great Rebellion – Finn Harding Book One.  It’s a romantic alternate history of the American Civil War. I did add more to a new chapter four when time permitted at the Xmas market and hope to finalize it soon.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved