Eric Butler's Blog, page 33

The Ephraim Godwin Chronicles - Part 23. Chapters 58-59

,CHAPTER FIFTY-EIGHT

Ephraim opened his eyes, wincing at the blaring sunlight. His head ached, and he reached up tentatively to rub his jaw. It was tender but nothing seemed broken. His back was cold and wet and Ephraim realized he was lying on the sidewalk. Dr Livingstone appeared from the left, leaning over him and moving to hold his eyes open.

"Oh jolly good," he announced, "seems like he's going to be fine. No reason to stick around...so off you go."

Livingstone motioned to a man lingering, shooing him with both hands as he stood. He waited for the man to stalk away before turning back and offered his hand to Ephraim.

"Can you stand?" Livingstone asked with a forced smile. He leaned closer and said softly, "And if not you bloody well better try as that man most likely will be back sooner than later."

Ephraim took the extended hand and allowed the Doctor to pull him up. The blood rushed from his head and back again in such a way, Ephraim thought he might fall down or at the very least, vomit all over. He pressed a hand to his forehead and leaned forward a bit, hoping a few deep breaths would steady him. A whistle blasted in the distance and Livingstone snagged Ephraim's arm and spun him around, forcing him to start walking in the opposite direction.

"That man is quite adamant that you owe him a new dog. When you fell you spooked the man and his mangy cur and the beast got away. Probably to a better life, but who can say,"

Livingstone explained as they marched down the street.

The whistle sounded again and Ephraim glanced back before saying, "Maybe we should stop and explain the situation. I don't mind paying the man for his loss since we have a reliable witness."

Livingstone shook his head, speeding up to distance them from their pursuers. "No, I got a look at the dog. He is claiming it is pure bread, but the dog is nothing more than a mutt. We will not be hoodwinked by this man...not with everything going on with Ms. Whitlock."

Ephraim clammed up, suddenly aware that something had been up with Zona, and yet he struggled to remember. ,Darkness, maybe water, reaching out or in, grabbing her hand and pulling., Each thought more a fragment of a fragment, but he was sure he was saving her from something truly horrific.

"Yes, yes," Ephraim said, a newfound purpose driving him forward. He just hoped the strain didn't end him.

,***

Emma stared at the entrance to the alleyway. She was beginning her first day of selling flowers, a step up from the near rotten apples the week before. Times were tough, and she knew she must do a better job to help her ma and nana. Her father died only a year ago, and the family scrambled to stay together and survive. Her brother and sisters had been out selling for years, but Emma recently became old enough to trust with the box.

,Maybe ma was wrong?, She bit her bottom lip in worry, before shaking her head. Her best friend Jenny was also six and handled it fine. ,Just sell the first one and the rest will be easy peasy., Emma smiled remembering her brother whispering that in her ear as he left to help the chimney sweep. Jimmy was always doing that, saying the right thing, and encouraging the girls.

Emma's smile faltered before sliding off entirely. She wasn't sure, but there seemed to be something in the alley; not near the entrance but farther back in the shadows. It was more a feeling than anything else, but it made her bowels turn to water. The day was beginning, and she wondered if she should move. Alice would be right cross if she did, so instead she decided to confront her fear straight on like Jimmy always suggested.

Emma moved across the street, hesitant at first but with each step, her confidence grew. She stopped at the alleyway and stared as hard as she could; willing her eyes to see what was there. A rotting stench rolled from the alley, and she stepped back, her stomach threatening to empty. She'd never smelt anything like it and no longer wanted to confront anything.

Emma spun around and waited to run back across the street. She took the first step when something slithered up her leg and wrapped around her calf. Emma glanced down in shock and stared as a dark thick tentacle pulsed around her leg. As she opened her mouth to scream, the tentacle jerked back, dragging her into the darkness.

Emma struggled while surrounded by rolling chilly flesh. Tentacles slithered over her bare skin and slipped in and out of any opening they found. She tried to cry out, but a thick dark tentacle pressed tight against her lips. Her eyes moved from the slithering appendages to the box of flowers sitting by the entrance, the contents being smashed and driven into the ground as people walked by.

Tears slipped from her eyes as the pressure from the tentacles grew. She hoped Alice wouldn't be too terribly cross when she found the day's profits ground into the dirt. ,Would Jimmy still call this easy peasy, if he knew what was in the shadows?, The thought lingered with her until the tentacles squeezed and Emma was no more.

,CHAPTER FIFTY-NINE

Dr. Bent exited Ms. Whitlock's residence as Ephraim and Livingstone hurried up the walkway. He tipped his hat and made to move past the men but Ephraim slid in his way.

"Doctor," Ephraim said with a nod, "Is Ms. Whitlock well?"

Dr. Bent studied him for a moment, glancing at Livingstone before shaking his head. "Honestly, I have no idea. Nothing seems to be wrong with the woman except maybe dehydration."

"She was poisoned," Livingstone said, his cheeks turning red.

"Yes, yes," Dr. Bent replied, waving off Livingstone, "I was made well aware of the woman's misfortune by her maid." He stopped talking and studied both men again.

"Can she have visitors?" Ephraim asked to fill the silence.

"Huh? Oh, no...at least not at this moment," Dr. Bent said sliding past the men. "I was finally able to get her to fall back asleep. That's the issue, gentlemen. She acts like a person not getting any sleep. Her maid swears she's been in bed for the last few days but I find little to no evidence of that. Good day."

Ephraim watched him walk away, "What do you think Doctor?"

"I think we heed Dr. Bent's advice. Rest will do her a world of good."

"Then I guess it's good Constable Clark is heading this way," Ephraim replied as he pointed to the young man rushing through the crowd.

"He looks quite upset," Livingstone added as they moved back away from the house.

"Oh thank God you're here," Clark said, gasping for breath. "Been looking all over for you two."

"What's happened now?" Ephraim asked, aware only one Inspector would be looking for the two of them.

"Trouble in Mile End," Clark said.

Ephraim smiled at Livingstone, "I knew it! Lead the way."

,***

Kimbell glanced at the alleyway and back to the young lady pointing and crying. As soon as he thought he understood her issue, he sent Clark to find Godwin and Livingstone. Thirty minutes later, and he was still standing here no closer to understanding what the slip of a girl was trying to say. Every time she got a coherent word out, she would begin to sob and wail again.

"I see you have your hands full," Ephraim called out, appearing from the crowd.

Kimbell shrugged, not sure how to answer.

Livingstone knelt in front of the girl and studied her face. "She's in shock."

Kimbell fished inside his coat and produced a small silver flask. He handed it to the doctor who in turn placed it into the girl's hand.

"Drink this...just a bit," he instructed her. Kimbell licked his lips as she raised the flask. She took a drink, pausing for a moment before beginning to cough and hack. Livingstone snatched the flask and handed it back to the inspector.

Kimbell held it for a moment, his eyes lingering on the spout. Shaking his head, he slipped it back into his coat and turned his attention to the girl.

"Her name is Alice," he told the doctor.

"Ah, Alice...what a beautiful name," Livingstone said with a broad smile. Alice blushed, and Kimbell wondered if it was from the drink or the attention.

"Thank you," she said her speech now slow and purposeful. Earlier she spoke so fast, Kimbell had no idea half what she said. ,Wish I would have thought of giving her a nip earlier.

"Now whatever is the matter?" Ephraim asked, leaving his question open to whoever wanted to answer.

"My sister," Alice said with a squeak, clearing her throat she continued. "She was supposed to stay right here even when all the flowers were gone. But she's not here and the flowers are over there."

All eyes followed her finger, pointing to the opening of an alleyway. Kimbell made out the remainder of the wilted lavender ground into the muck.

"And is that the box she carried them in?" Ephraim asked as he stepped closer to the opening. He hesitated a moment before reaching into the shadows and grabbing the box.

"Yes sir, that's it," Alice replied on the verge of tears returning.

"So why are we here, Inspector?" Ephraim asked as he handed the box to Alice.

Kimbell studied the shadows of the alley for a few seconds before turning his attention back to Ephraim.

"Well Mr. Godwin, that alley is what the majority of complaints from the last few days have been about. Now we have a missing girl as well, and I think this ties in with all the mumbo jumbo going on lately."

"Just as you surmised," Livingstone said, nodding towards Ephraim before turning his attention to the Inspector. "Godwin recently explained to me the rise in four-legged disappearances."

"Well it all points back to this alley," Kimbell said. "Clark, go fetch us some lanterns."

He stepped away from Alice, motioning for the other men to join him. Livingstone and Godwin leaned in as Kimbell studied each man.

"No one believes any of this," Kimbell said motioning generally at the men and the alley.

"They want to lay the blame on some poor immigrant bastard raving in the loony bin and be done with the whole thing. But that will only delay the inevitable...whatever that might be."

Ephraim clapped the inspector on the shoulder and offered a wide smile, "Looks like we have a new recruit, huh doctor?"

"Seems to me, he's been with us almost from the beginning," Livingstone replied.

"True, true," Godwin said waving to Clark, "and here is the constable returned with some lanterns."

"Sorry sir, but they didn't have any matches on hand," Clark said as he handed one to the inspector and the other to Ephraim. Livingstone patted his coat and found his box of Lucifer matches. He produced the last one and struck it against the side before lighting the two wicks inside the lantern.

"Be on your toes constable, and you...young lady, please stay here."

The four men entered the alleyway, Kimbell leading the way with Ephraim at the back. They held their lanterns high as they moved slowly through the muck.

"Good God what stinks," Clark said as he began to gag. Kimbell worked to ignore it worried he might vomit if he stopped to investigate.

"I've only smelled something like this once...we are about to find a pile of bodies gentlemen," Ephraim warned from the back.

Clark hunched over, vomit spewing past his lips. Livingstone patted him on his back and stepped past him. He gazed at the back wall. ,No doubt seeing the weird bumps and colors,, Kimbell thought with a grimace.

"Bloody hell," Ephraim said with a hiss, "are those eyes?"

Kimbell followed where he pointed and gasped. A pair of eyes blinked at the men, the bright lantern light reflecting off their wet surface. A rumble began to sound throughout the alley. Garbage and muck exploded from the ground, raining back down on the men as tentacles slithered toward them.

Clark cried out, pointing and jumping from foot to foot, unsure what to do. Livingstone swung his cane back and forth, doing his best to keep the flailing appendages from the men.

"They are behind us as well," Ephraim called out to the others. Kimbell glanced back and saw a wall of squiggling and writhing flesh blocking them from the street.

Kimbell's ears rang as loud cries and screeches issued from the mass. He wondered if the noise was from the creature or its victims. From the corner of his eye, he saw Clark slip to his knees. A tentacle slithered up his body and wrapped around his neck. A loud crack sounded as the creature lifted his now lifeless body in the air and waved it back and forth.

Kimbell reached into his coat and removed his flask. He emptied the remaining liquid like a Bishop performing an exorcist, the cheap alcohol splashing against the pulsing flesh. He then threw his lantern against the wall, watching it shatter and light up the creature. Ephraim grabbed the doctor and inspector by the shoulder and pulled them back, a moment before a loud explosion pushed them through the tentacles and out of the alleyway.

Kimbell lay on his back and stared at the darkening sky. The clouds billowed in and within no time, the rain poured down helping to keep the fire contained to the alley and the surrounding buildings.

"Well I'll be damned," Ephraim said as he sat in the road next to the inspector. "Talk about timing."

"Good lord...just what is going on?" Livingstone asked to no one in particular. The men stood stunned as the rain came down and put out the fire the inspector started. The fire brigade showed up, excited to work so close to home, but after moments the fire was out; leaving only the smell...and the partially dissolved body of a tiny girl.

© 2020 Naked Cat Press. All Rights Reserved

Reading and reviews

Reviews are almost as important as purchases at the beginning of an independent writer's journey. Reviews are gold because it tells strangers what others thought of the book or story written. It tells people that if you like a certain genre or writing style, then pick up this book. Without reviews, there is no way for a reader to know for sure if they would be wasting their time or picking up the first of many amazing stories a writer has produced.

If you've read any of the books/stories I've shared on Amazon please take a moment to leave a review. It doesn't need to be wordy or even long. Pick the star amount and just a sentence helps. Of course, if you want to leave more, please do. You are the captain of the review ship...

Below is each of the books available and some more reviews left recently of each story. I've also included the blurb in case you haven't had a chance to read and want to see what my books are about. If you don't want to leave me a review, but want to let me know what you thought, email me or head over to Facebook and drop me a message. I'd love to hear about it!

Find it on Kindle and Paperback

You can find it on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle. Click

While I work on the 2nd issue, I wanted to also include Irving Fontaine and the Horrors of the Old West. The 1st issue is available on Kindle for a buck. Even better if you have Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for free. It's only 5000 words so it will be a quick and hopefully fun read. I will release a new issue every month around the 1st. Some tales will be supernatural and others simply deal with the evil and horrors men do. The plan is to have it lean into its wild west heritage.

The first story is titled "Skin Walkers".

Irving Fontaine is haunted by the Civil War. Trying to outrun his demons, he heads west. Along the way, he is hired to protect the Robinson family.

Black Crow is haunted by loss. He is hunting the monsters responsible but they are always a step ahead.

Irving wakes up in a field, the family and his memory gone. Black Crow knows where they are and what evil awaits them. With his revenge so near, all he needs to do is convince Irving to trust him.

You can find it

Ephraim Godwin and the Sins of the Past - Part 22 Ch 56 & 57

,CHAPTER FIFTY-SIX

Zona sat in a rowboat in the middle of a rather large lake. She couldn't be sure, but she thought the boat floated in the exact center. ,How very odd,. The thought bounced around her head, but Zona wasn't sure if she meant odd that she floated in a lake or odd that she realized the boat's location on the water.

Shifting left, then right Zona gazed around, looking for an end to the water. A dot appeared on the horizon behind her, and she kept her eyes locked on it. As it grew, she realized a man was walking towards her. Zona stood, her hurry causing the boat to rock and for a moment she feared she might fall in the water.

Holding her arms out on each side, Zona quickly regained her balance as a wide smile broke on her face. Her brother marched toward her, his long legs eating up the distance between them; his feet skimming over the top of the water as if he strode upon glass.

She waved at him, willing him to hurry as the excitement bubbled throughout her body. He nodded toward her, neither slowing nor speeding up. Zona eyed the water, suddenly curious if she could also walk upon the gentle waves.

"You can if you believe," a deep voice said. Zona shrank away as her attention shot back to her brother's face. It was her brother before her, but somehow not. His eyes were darker, no longer pale like his skin or hair, but deep wells of eternal blackness.

"You are not Zachariah," she hissed, frantically searching for a weapon in the boat.

"You are correct," the voice said, a smile blooming on her brother's face. He hovered above the water, positioned like a puppet at attention. "I am simply using your brother since his body, while freakish, is still easier to navigate throughout the Empire."

Zona turned around, trying to pinpoint the voice's exact location but there was nothing but the boat and her brother. She gritted her teeth, fighting the desire to snarl and attack her brother's body. ,He's no longer here, that is only a shell,. She hoped the thought would calm her, but it only inflamed her rage.

"I would ask you to leave my brother," she said struggling to keep her voice level, "before I am forced to remove you."

Zachariah Whitlock stayed still, his black eyes staring through her causing her body to shiver. The voice's booming laughter crashed down on her, making the water churn and the boat to dip. She fell to her knees and covered her ears, her head ringing from the volume.

"You?" the voice asked, the word filled with contempt. "You are a fly." The sky darkened at the last word, and soon Zona saw nothing but her brother's white face. It shone with a pale light, almost as if the moon reflected from the water to his skin.

"I may be a fly now," Zona said struggling to rise, "but soon I will be powerful enough to stop you..."

"ENOUGH!" the voice boomed, shattering the boat and sending Zona into the cold waters below.

The water was so cold, Zona's limbs turned numb. She struggled to move them enough to rise up and break through the surface. Taking huge gulps of air, she fought to keep her head above the choppy waves slamming into her. Lightening and fire streaked through the sky while thundering booms deafened her.

"I AM THE COMING STORM," the voice roared over the wind and thunder. "I AM YOUR GOD AND YOU WILL ALL BE SACRIFICED TO MY GLORY."

Zachariah Whitlock's body rose higher, his head thrown back as red fire shot from his mouth. His arms and legs splintered and cracked until multiple tentacles writhed and squirmed away from his body. Zona stared in horror as the tentacles stretched and grew until all she could see was a mass of wiggling and twisting dark flesh pouring from her brother's limbs.

"I AM COMING LITTLE FLY, AND WITH ME WILL BE YOUR DOOM," the voice howled over the screeching wind.

Zona wondered how much longer she could stay afloat as her limbs grew heavier. The mass that was once her brother sunk beneath the waves and the water began to boil. Zona whimpered as the intense heat flashed over her body, jolting the cold flesh into searing pain. A tentacle wrapped around her ankle slowly slithering its way up her leg.

"Help me," she screamed as more tentacles grabbed her and pulled her down. She strained to reach up to find the surface when a hand gripped her wrist and pulled her free from the tangle of gripping tentacles. She caught a glimpse of Ephraim's face before the world went black.

,CHAPTER FIFTY-SEVEN

Oringo studied his master. ,Looks plum tired,. He was late; delayed as he grabbed two meat pies from the local vendor. Ol' man Jacob made the best pies in the area since he rarely added anything to stretch the filling. Oringo didn't like to think about what might make its way into the local area's food.

Sitting the pies on the table, he shifted his attention back to his master. He had only been in Whitlock's body for a bit, and already Oringo noticed some wear. ,Around the eyes mostly...and the color of the skin;, Oringo couldn't explain it but the master appeared more shadow than man. ,Like the colors been wrung from him., Oringo shook his head, no time for thinking. They needed to get moving if the master was to be believed. He reached out, pausing before gripping his master's shoulder and shaking.

"Enough," his master said, his voice a raspy whisper. Oringo jumped back and put his arms to his side.

"It's done," Oringo said, eyes glued to the floorboards. His jaw still ached from the last time he needed reminding not to stare at his master.

"Very good," he said, patting the young man on his head. He stepped by Oringo and sat at the table. "Ah, dinner...very good indeed. Sit boy before it gets cold."

Oringo spun and sat at the table, eating in the steady way his master required. The Colonel didn't mind rude table habits, encouraged them in fact, but his new master would not accept anything but perfection. They ate in silence, Oringo stuffed the last piece in his mouth and resisted the urge to suck the grease from his fingers.

"Here," his master said passing over a handkerchief. Oringo took it with a mumbled thanks and wiped himself clean. "With the first ,seed, planted, we need to leave. I have special plans for the second ,seed, and the third one can be dropped off on our way. I've been thinking about your lost locket...and how to fix the situation."

He rose from the table and moved to the cages. Oringo studied his master from the corner of his eye wondering where they were off to. A knock on the door drew Oringo's eyes up. The knob turned and the door swung open.

Oringo watched with mouth agape as his mother shuffled in wearing the same torn and bloodstained dress she died in. Her vacant eyes stared right through him, chilling him to the bone. She opened her mouth letting bloody dirt fall down the front of her dress. A soft moan slipped out, increasing in volume until her cry pummeled his ears until they rang.

Throwing his hands over them, Oringo tried to block out the noise. Strong fingers gripped his hair and pulled his head back. Oringo's eyes bulged in fear as he tried to wrestle loose from his master's hold.

"Your work is just beginning...this will help with the distractions," his master said with a broad smile as he placed the second seed on Oringo's face.

Oringo opened his mouth to scream, realizing his mistake too late as the creature slithered past his lips. He clawed at his mouth, trying to grab any part of the creature but his fingers slipped from it. His master's grip loosened and he slumped to the ground. His eyes locked with his mother's as she faded away. ,Was she ever there?

Oringo struggled to ask, but his master no longer appeared interested and had moved across the room. A jolt of pain pierced his chest, and his vision dimmed. ,A trick of the light,, he thought but as the world grew dark around him, he knew light had nothing to do with this.

© 2020 Naked Cat Press. All Rights Reserved

Exciting news and voting continues

Today there are a few exciting items to share and a request to keep The Pope Lick Massacre in the running for best cover of the month.

First things first, The Pope Lick Massacre made it to round 2. It was one of the top 100 covers left standing after round 1 (and 300+ book covers). Voting is back up and everyone gets to vote again. I've included the link so you can head directly there. Please go vote and if you feel inclined, share the link. I'm gonna need a real boost to get to round 3. To vote please click

As I get closer to the end of the weekly serial, Ephraim Godwin and the Sins of the Past, I've decided what I need to do to get it out to share with even more fans of Gothic Victorian Horror. I am close to finishing the first storyline. It is longer than I anticipated, especially since the original idea was for a short story that I decided needed to be expanded. The requirements included around 5000 words and I think in a few weeks I will be over 50000. On top of that, I have at least 4 more books involving these characters plotted out. So if you like Ephraim Godwin there will be plenty of adventures for you to follow.

As I said, I am close to the end of the first volume and I will begin to release the stories in a collected novella sized Amazon Kindle format. They will be available for purchase and to read for free on Kindle Unlimited. I am planning to release the first volume in early July 2020. As of right now, there will be 3 volumes, and once they are released the volumes will be collected for a larger paperback.

The series will be called The Ephraim Godwin Chronicles and each volume will have its own title. The first volume will be The Sins of the Past. Here is the first go on the cover. This may change in the next few weeks...but for now it's leading the race.

I plan on using the next few weeks to clean up any editing issues or continuity issues, so the volumes may change a little from the serial. Honestly, it's tough to keep up with everything on a weekly serial while writing multiple books. This way I can make sure to smooth out the bumps.

More exciting news...The books are gaining momentum and positive reviews.

The Shadow Within has three more 5 star reviews and can be found

The Pope Lick Massacre has two more reviews.

"Suspense until the end. This book holds your attention and has twists and turns that are terrifying !! Can not wait for the next Eric Butler book."

&

"I normally am not a huge fan of 'monsters', but I do LOVE urban legends and regional legends. This story took place someplace I am not very familiar with and had never heard this legend before this, so this was a fun read. I am also a sucker for kids vs Evil. So a missing boy scout troupe...that right away had me on the edge of my seat!! I love the combination of coming of age story (taking care of younger siblings) and how that mixes with horror. Great Stephen King vibe."

You can find it

Irving Fontaine is available on Amazon, with the option to purchase it on Kindle or read for free with Kindle Unlimited. This is the first in a monthly series, click

Author Lee Franklin,

"This is a brilliant western horror. Butler crafts some depth to his characters as he hits the folklore horror. Not as heavy as his other work, but definitely gory enough. I really enjoyed it and look forward to more from these Irving and Black Crow."

Ephraim Godwin and the Sins of the Past - Part 21 Ch 54-55

,CHAPTER FIFTY-FOUR

Oringo carried the cage under his left arm. He wanted it tight against his body, afraid the creature might somehow get out. He still wasn't sure what to call them, as his master would not say. Oringo simply called them seeds. ,Never seen no seeds that could crawl around., Shaking his head, ,honestly never seen any of the amazing things Mr. Cook did.

The ,seed, slithered about, bumping into the side held against Oringo's body. He shuddered, knowing what came next. Tiny tentacles slipped out and ran against his shirt, searching for an opening. If they found one, they would begin to burrow into his skin. His right side still itched from earlier as it healed up.

Part of the reason the master was requiring him to get new clothes. ,Two more days, and he'd be dressed up like one of those dandy clowns., Shaking his head, Oringo darted into the alleyway. He slid backward through the muck, keeping his eyes locked on the alley entrance. After a few yards, he squatted next to a pile of rubbish.

"Oy, he went this way I figure," a harsh voice said as three silhouettes filled the entrance.

"You sure," the smallest silhouette asked, voice filled with doubt.

"'E's scared," the last one said with a laugh. Oringo set the cage down and slipped his knife from his boot.

They entered the alley and spread out, making it impossible for anyone to pass by. Oringo grinned, shifting his knife to his right hand. He had no plan to leave the alley until this was finished. As the group stepped closer, Oringo took a deep breath. His eyes burned from the stench of the refuse pile, but he held the putrid breath in.

"I 'ate this alley," the small one said, "you can't see nothin' past the front and it smells awful like..."

Oringo stood and slipped his knife into the speaker's throat, cutting him off. He pulled the blade out and spun, kicking out his left leg into the closest one standing. A satisfying crunch echoed in the alley, and Oringo slashed his blade across the figure's face as he tumbled to the ground. The biggest silhouette bounced back, keeping the others between him and Oringo.

"Hear now," he stammered bringing his hands up to show he held no weapon, "I ain't lookin' for trouble."

"Too bad I am," Oringo said with a laugh as he flung the knife at the shape. It slipped just under his chin, the man clawed at his throat as he fell to his knees.

Oringo stepped over the bodies and smiled at the man. "You lot 'ave been a big help but funs over. I have work to do." He pulled his knife free and pushed the man over with his boot.

The second man groaned, and Oringo spun around gripping the man by his hair. He dragged him to the back of the alley and leaned him against the wall. He slipped his knife between his ribs and held it a moment wishing the alley was brighter, so he could enjoy the man's death. Of course any brighter, and he couldn't plant the ,seed,.

After dragging the other two bodies over and piling them up, Oringo retrieved the cage; the wood shook and creaked as the creature became aroused by the scent of blood and death. He popped the lock and sat the cage down by the bodies. The creature slithered out and moved up the small one's torso. It paused at the neck wound and Oringo imagined the tentacles pushing past the opened skin.

He shuddered as he turned. The master instructed him to release this one closer to the Jew's burial grounds, but there was plenty for it to eat here. If the noises were any indication, the first ,seed, was planted. Oringo stepped from the alley, whistling as he strode away.

,CHAPTER FIFTY-FIVE

"Ms. Whitlock seems to be getting stronger," Livingstone said before sipping his tea. Ephraim glanced up from the paper and frowned.

"A tad longer than expected though," he said, leaving the doctor to decide if it was a statement or a question.

"True. The woman's been through a lot though, and I have every confidence she will be back on her feet in a day or so."

Ephraim offered a terse nod. The doctor had said the same thing two days ago and Zona still lay in bed, slipping in and out of consciousness. He feared more than the poison was at work. ,Damn Mr. Cook or Whitlock or whatever bloody name he used now!

"Godwin?" Livingstone asked, concern filling his voice.

Ephraim glanced down and studied the paper balled up in his fists. His limbs shook from the anger coursing through his body. Ephraim took a deep breath, unclenched his jaw then his hands, and exhaled slowly.

"Sorry," he replied offering no further explanation. He sipped his tea before grabbing a lemon scone from the plate in the center of the table. The men sat quietly as Ephraim nibbled at the pastry.

Livingstone finally broke the silence, "Two days and nothing...do you think they left London?"

Ephraim shook his head, washing the last glob of food down with a large gulp of tea. He'd been searching the paper for anything that might point them in the correct direction. Smoothing out the paper, he turned it so Livingstone could read where his finger tapped.

The doctor leaned forward, engaged with the article but when he glanced back up confusion colored his face. "I don't see the connection."

Ephraim sighed and retrieved the paper. He folded it in half and read aloud, "...residents in Mile End are reporting an increase of missing cats and dogs in the area. While many have suspected the local butchers, there is no evidence of such at this time."

"And this suggests they are still here?"

"Well, maybe not the two of them specifically, but something they most likely are involved in. We just need to figure that out to connect the dots," Ephraim said as he stood.

Livingstone hurriedly finished his tea and followed the man outside.

© 2020 Naked Cat Press. All Rights Reserved

Introducing Irving Fontaine and the Horrors of the Old West

I'm starting a new monthly horror western series on Amazon. It will focus on the main character of Irving Fontaine, a Civil War veteran just looking to escape the ghosts of the war. Each month a 5000 to 10000 word story will be available on Amazon for the Kindle. If you have Kindle Unlimited, you can read for free or the stories will range from $1 to $2 depending on the length. After a few months, I will then release the stories in a collected version for the Kindle and on Paperback. So this way there are several ways for you to enjoy the series.

The stories will change from month to month in tone, horror/action balance, and even the time period. As the story moves along, I may find it necessary to peek back into Irving's past or jump ahead in his future. It will be a free-flowing and organic story experience.

Here is the blurb for
Volume 1 Issue 1: The Skin Walkers

Irving Fontaine is haunted by the Civil War. Trying to outrun his demons, he heads west. Along the way, he is hired to protect the Robinson family.

Black Crow is haunted by loss. He is hunting the monsters responsible but they are always a step ahead.

Irving wakes up in a field, the family and his memory gone. Black Crow knows where they are and what evil awaits them. With his revenge so near, all he needs to do is convince Irving to trust him.

This first story is around 5100 words. You can find it

on

Ephraim Godwin and the Sins of the Past - Part 20 ch. 51 -53

,CHAPTER FIFTY-ONE

Jonah Cook stood straight, enjoying the height his new body provided. He tilted his head to the left, studying his reflection before nodding and turning to the tailor with a smile.

"Mr. Taylor, I am thoroughly impressed," Cook said with a broad smile. "When I heard your name and profession were the same, I assumed I was entering the den of a conman, a trickster trying to live off his family's name...but you sir are an artist."

Mr. Taylor smiled and nodded. Cook studied the man's face, remembering when he last saw the man three years ago. Both were so much different today. Cook obviously since he was in a new body, but Mr. Taylor was no longer the boastful, loudmouth drunk who needed a lesson to become the master tailor he now was.

Cook's smile widened as he remembered how boastful and disrespectful the man had been all those years ago. The amount of disdain he held for Jonah Cook the African, the servant. His tongue lashed out with cutting words until Cook held the man down and sliced out his tongue. And now Cook found the man almost docile...pleasant even. He placed a hand on the man's shoulder and looked down at the man.

"This...three-piece suit is simply amazing," Cook said as he offered a squeeze before letting go. He resisted the urge to move back to the mirror and take in the soft, English cloth the color of the darkest pit in hell.

Taylor offered a tightly closed smile. He nodded and motioned for Cook to follow him to the front. A bell dinged as the front door opened. Oringo slunk in and stood off to the side. Cook smiled, amused at the boy's reluctance to stay clean and wear fancy clothes. Of all the things James Hatty taught the boy, this was by far the worst.

"Mr. Taylor, I believe your next subject has arrived," Cook said with a booming laugh. Oringo cringed before stepping forward.

Taylor scooted around the boy, forcing his limbs into position while quickly measuring. He nodded when he finished, flashing three fingers to Cook.

"Thank you, Mr. Taylor. We will see you in three days," he said as he led the boy out.

"Our time is short my boy," Cook said as they climbed into an empty carriage. He banged his walking stick on the ceiling and the carriage lurched forward. "We must plant our diabolical germs, so they grow while we are away. You also will have time to retrieve that locket you care so much about."

"Thank you master," Oringo said. Cook nodded in approval, and they rode on in silence.

,***

Mary glared at Ephraim as he carried Zona into the house. Livingstone trailed behind, tipping his hat and offering a neutral smile. He wondered if Ephraim had that effect on all women or just these two. Shaking his head, Livingstone realized he missed something. Ephraim stormed off in a huff and disappeared through the front door.

"I'm sorry but can you repeat that?"

"I said, doctor...you can leave, now," Mary said with a clipped tone. Livingstone nodded and turned to go.

"Give her this when she wakes up after some broth," Livingstone said pausing to fish out a bottle and placing it on the table as he moved past it. "She really just needs some rest, this will help."

After a moment of silence Mary let out a sigh, "Thank you doctor."

"My pleasure, we will check on Ms. Whitlock in the morning. Please send word if you need anything."

Livingstone let the door close and stared at Ephraim pacing back and forth in front of the house. He was quite disheveled and speaking to himself like a madman. Ephraim ran his fingers through his hair, his hat forgotten in his other hand. ,He is quite shaken up over all this., Livingstone bounded down the stairs and grabbed the man by his arm.

"Pull yourself together," Livingstone whispered as he glanced at those moving past. Ephraim blinked a few times before his eyes cleared up and recognition filled them.

"Damn it, doctor," he growled as he slammed his hat on his head, "I am more than together." Ephraim marched away and after a few steps, Livingstone decided he better catch up with the man.

,CHAPTER FIFTY-TWO

Oringo paced back and forth, staring daggers at the constable standing across from the manhole cover. This was the third one he tried to use and all had been guarded. ,Well not guarded per se, but definitely watched if the Colonel's teachings were true,. Oringo nodded to himself, he knew the Colonel was always right about the constables, which meant those bastards had made it out.

,Well, at least one of them did., The thought gave him hope. Maybe the esteemed Ephraim Godwin met his end down there in the dark. If that was the case, his locket could be in the tunnel or at the morgue. He needed to stay calm.

Weaving through the crowd and crossing the street was child's play for Oringo, but he stopped a few steps away from the constable. It wouldn't do to step up to a man who might recognize him. Oringo studied the man for a few moments, taking in every detail he could but nothing rang a bell, so he stepped forward.

"Message sir," Oringo said pulling his cap forward to hide his face as he ducked his head, "Looking for those gents who were in the tunnels."

"Then you need to find Inspector Kimbell. He'll be at the Cat and Custard on Pelham most likely. If no there, Stationhouse five."

Oringo hovered a second before asking, "So they all made it out?"

The constable nodded before turning his attention Oringo and studying the lad. He leaned close and using his fist, raised Oringo's face, so he could look the boy in the eye. Suspicion painted his face.

"And who is sending Inspector Kimbell a message?"

Oringo sprang back and tipped his cap once again. He spun and sprinted away from the constable, hoping the man's duty to watch the cover was more important than questioning him.

,***

"Thank God I found you," Constable Hill said to Ephraim as they walked toward Livingstone's residence. They had recently finished a rather pleasant meal of chops and potatoes at Purcell's and were retiring for the evening.

"Quite so, if Godwin hadn't insisted on walking we would be in a carriage right now," Livingstone said with a smile.

"Why are you looking for us, Constable Hill?" Ephraim asked as he stared past the man. Something across the way grabbed his attention, but he couldn't figure out what it had been. The flow of people under the gaslights was a blur of shadows. He shook his head and focused on the constable.

"This dreadful day continues sir," Hill said with a shudder. "I'm to take you to Inspector Kimbell."

Livingstone and Ephraim exchanged glances and the doctor smiled. Ephraim shook his head but knew the man was correct. They should have taken the carriage. Ephraim thought a brisk walk after dinner would help clear the mind and get them ready for bed. Livingstone remarked he was quite ready for bed, walk, or not.

"Well enough of this walking nonsense," Ephraim growled as he motioned to a passing carriage, "Tell the man where to and come on."

Hill spoke with the driver a moment and slid in next to the doctor.

"Any clue as to why the inspector requested us?" Livingstone asked as the carriage lurched forward. Ephraim stared out the window.

"My orders are to say nothing but...it's terrible sir," Hill said with a shudder. Ephraim turned his attention to the man, cursing the shadows hiding his face. If the tone of the man's voice told them anything, whatever they traveled towards was quite terrible indeed.

,CHAPTER FIFTY-THREE

Zona's sleep was restless. Her body ached, stopping her from delving deeper into her dreams. So instead she floated in the darkness. She called out to Zachariah, but he either couldn't or wouldn't answer. Zona refused to accept he might be gone forever. No spirit truly was no matter the circumstance. She simply needed to get stronger, more skilled to reach him. ,Ephraim would need to also,. The thought made her smile. That first night she would never have guessed it possible, however now he seemingly had no choice but to believe. ,Too much has happened.

Zona reached out with her mind, searching for the man. She vaguely remembered calling for him when she lay poisoned but the memories were jumbled and fuzzy. She would try again and hopefully the attempt would at worst tire her enough to slip into a restful sleep.

Zona imagined herself a ghost, slipping gracefully through the darkness. Shimmering lights popped up here and there, but she ignored them. ,Wouldn't do to attract the wrong people, or their nightmares right now,. Her brother warned her of the dangers getting too close to powerful dreamers posed, especially those who are trained in the art. They would be in control and depending on their talent and will...well she shuddered remembering the descriptions.

A light bloomed in the distance. It shone with blue, red, and yellow pulses. She wasn't sure how, but she was sure she was seeing Ephraim. Whatever he was doing spiked his emotions. Zona slowed, suddenly afraid she made the wrong choice. Did she really want to witness whatever the man was doing right now?

All Zona knew for sure, Ephraim was awake. She floated in the darkness, studying the color. Blue, yellow, and red burst in front of her like waves of fury; she could feel the rage building with each pulse. Swallowing, Zona nodded to herself. ,Move forward silly girl.

Zona slid closer and peeked inside. Her head jerked back in revulsion as bile rose in her throat. The burning sensation jolted her awake, and she leaned over, vomiting in the basin Mary had been wise enough to leave her. Zona desperately wanted to go to sleep and rest, but she feared what she would see if she closed her eyes.

,***

"That is Ms. Blair," Ephraim said with a sigh. Stanbury's bedroom flashed through his head, but that paled compared to this.

"I don't care if this Church is abandoned," Livingstone said through gritted teeth, "This is beyond comprehension."

"Ms. Blair?" Kimbell asked as he stared blankly ahead. "Someone involved with all this then?"

Ephraim nodded, pulled a handkerchief out of his pocket, and covered his face. He found the smell overwhelming. The poor woman lay diagonally across the altar. Her head dangled from the front left corner, her legs hung over the back right one spread open with the point a few inches showing between. Ephraim forced himself closer, noting her eyes had been removed, her chest ripped open, and he would need Livingstone's assessment, but he believed some organs were missing.

A white altar cloth covered her from the waist to her knees, but only the soaked through blood stopped anyone from seeing the obvious. Ephraim noted a dress bundled off to the back corner, and aside from the cloth, she was very naked. ,Livingstone is correct...this is monstrous,.

"Look up," Kimbell called out as Ephraim finished circling the body.

Ephraim paused and spun around. He found the lack of blood confounding and as he began to comment, the words stuck in his throat. A few constables held lanterns high, illuminating the wall showing where symbols and words painted in the missing blood. They started just above where the statue of Jesus would hang and would light up during the day with help from the stain glass windows.

"I've seen some of these before," Ephraim said so quietly Kimbell asked him to repeat himself.

"Zona... Ms. Whitlock would know what these meant," he said instead. He motioned to Livingstone who produced a pad and pencil. Ephraim began to mark them down.

"And why is that?" Kimbell asked as he slid closer to the others, "Other than the fact the names Godwin, Livingstone, and Whitlock are written in this poor woman's blood."

"This is something dark," Ephraim replied as he removed the finished paper and slipped it into his pocket. "And something to do with the first night we came together."

Livingstone nodded and pointed to the body. "Her heart and lungs are missing. Maybe some other organs, but I can see the absence of those from here."

"I'm not sure what part poor Ms. Blair had in all this, but now there are only three of us left from that night," Ephraim said as he walked away from the body. Livingstone and Kimbell hurried to catch up.

Kimbell glanced back, "You men get the body to the morgue...then clean that wall off." The three men exited the building and stepped to the side.

"Is that a good idea?" Livingstone asked.

"The last thing we need is a panic such a display will cause," Kimbell said after a moment of silence. "The three of us know it, and those boys in there. Rumors are fine, but if a newsman or God forbid someone important saw that we'd be under it."

"Especially as the inspector pointed out, our names are listed in the victim's blood," Ephraim said with a sigh. Although honestly, he felt they had been under it for quite some time.

© 2020 Naked Cat Press. All Rights Reserved

Flash Fiction Exercise...

So I wasn't sure what to share today as I've been distracted with a few things. I want to put together a review and suggestion list of movies based in and of the HP Lovecraft world but I am not ready. I thought about a suggestion list of things to watch as everyone may or may not be going back to life, but we (my wife and I) are still watching a few things and I won't suggest it if I didn't see the ending yet - at least not a season. If we are talking a show that has more than one and I liked one, I might tell you to get on it and hope the season holds up.

Since I couldn't decide, I think I will share one of my flash fiction stories. I sent this to a contest/publisher but not by e-mail. I uploaded it through a webpage...a webpage I must not have bookmarked. I have no idea why I wrote it. No idea what the theme was or if I had to include a specific item. I only remember the length...80 words. So looking at the story, I'm going to guess. I had to write about

war
loss
a box
a gift

For some reason the gift is tickling a memory so maybe that was the theme. Like I said 80 words max...so I give you 80 words. Flash fiction is hard to do and even though I have no idea where I sent it or how it was judged, it was a worthwhile exercise. So here is the story and I hope you enjoy it...

"Empty Promises"

Johnson opened the box as earth and shrapnel exploded around him. A single tear escaped when nothing happened. The gypsy promised it would end the war as she took his last wad of bills; just open it in no man’s land. A loud crack sounded, Johnson stumbled and the box slipped from his fingers bouncing on the muddy, war-torn terrain. As his last breath slipped away, he realized the old gypsy spoke the truth. The war was finally over…for him.

© 2020 Naked Cat Press. All Rights Reserved

Ephraim Godwin and the Sins of the Past - Part 20 Ch. 49 & 50

,CHAPTER FORTY-NINE

Constable Hill glanced sideways at Livingstone as they traveled back to Chattoway's home. The doctor stared straight ahead, keeping his back stiff and his stride at a comfortable yet hurried pace. Hill wondered exactly what was going on. Livingstone had no recollection of leaving the property, entering the shop, or trying to walk off the roof. He swore the last thing he remembered was the boy throwing the dagger at his head.

,Whatever has the Inspector dragged us into?, The thought nagged at him as they moved through the crowd. Hill knew life as a constable would be difficult, but the last few days had been nothing but fantastical. He wanted to compare thoughts with Clark when they had a moment. He'd been on the force a while longer than Hill, and maybe this was more common than he thought.

"What's gotten into him?" Livingstone asked as he pointed towards Clark, who waved his arms frantically at the top of the stairs.

"I don't kno...Ms. Whitlock," Hill responded as he sped up, hoping the doctor would follow.

"Where the bloody hell have you been?" Clark snapped as the two men rushed up the stairs.

"What's the matter?"

"Ms. Whitlock won't wake up," Clark said as the men entered the house and moved back to the kitchen.

"Good heavens," Livingstone exclaimed as he entered the room and took in Ms. Whitlock slumped in her chair. He rushed to her side and placed two fingers against her neck. Nodding to himself, he bent over and dipped his finger in the spilled liquid mixed with the teacup shards. His head jolted back as he sniffed his wet finger. "She's been poisoned."

Hill and Clark exchanged a glance but neither moved from the doorway. Livingstone closed his eyes and stood very still next to the woman. Hill studied him, noticing the anguish on his face. ,Could he have done this before leaving?, Hill shuddered at the thought.

"Constables, Did I see a water pump in the back yard?" Livingstone asked as he started inspecting the cabinet's contents.

"Yes sir," Hill said with a nod. "It was just off the side from the door here."

"Please go and fill this," he said, holding out a pitcher. Hill grabbed it and rushed out the back. He returned a moment later to find Livingstone and Clark on either side of Ms. Whitlock.

Livingstone held out a glass filled with salt and instructed Hill to fill it. Once the glass was almost full, he stirred the liquid. He motioned to Clark who grabbed Ms. Whitlock's shoulders and held her upright.

"Constable Hill," Livingstone said as he stepped in front of the woman, "I will need you over on this side if you please."

Hill slid opposite Clark and after a moment's hesitation gripped Ms. Whitlock's arm. Livingstone cupped her chin and leaned her head back, opening her mouth a little and placing the glass to her lips.

"Hold her upright until I finish," he said as he began to pour the saltwater into her mouth. Ms. Whitlock sputtered a bit as the liquid filled her mouth, but soon her muscle memory took over and the glass drained. Livingstone stepped away, putting the glass down and returned to stand behind her. "In a moment, you will need to lean her forward. Please keep a tight hold."

Ms. Whitlock's body twitched then shook from a spasm. She shook a bit more, and after a moment, the constables leaned her forward. A retching sound issued deep from her chest and soon the saltwater returned. Livingstone pushed her forward as more and more released from her stomach.

Hill looked up, staring at the ceiling. Clark pressed his lips tight together while looking straight ahead with a blank expression on his face. The doctor patted her on the back before moving in front of her.

"Thank you, doctor," she said with a grimace. "I'm pretty sure he used enough poison to kill an elephant."

"Let's clean you up," Livingstone said but Ms. Whitlock had already passed out.

,***

Ephraim pushed up the manhole cover letting it fall over with a clang. Kimbell's palm on his backside told him to move faster. He scrambled out and spun offering his hand to the Inspector, who grabbed it and allowed the man to help pull him up.

"Hurry," the Inspector growled as they pushed the cover back over the opening. The metal slipped into place with a crunch as it pinched through a rotting hand.

"'oy, what is that?" a constable said as he stepped towards the men. "Oh, Inspector Kimbell...were you in the pits?"

Hunched over and gasping for breath, Kimbell waved the man away before stepping over and scooping up the severed flesh. Ephraim rushed to a vendor to purchase a meat pie wrapped in paper. He slipped the pie to a child walking by and took the paper to the Inspector, who wrapped the hand with a nod of thanks.

"Constable, keep an eye on this cover," Kimbell said as the men started back towards Chattoway's home. "If anything tries to get out...stop it at all cost."

They were too far away to hear the constable's reply, but Ephraim could imagine the man's response. As they turned the corner, Ephraim's head jolted in pain, and he stumbled to his knees, crying out. A flash of light blinded him and in the foggy mist, Ephraim thought he saw Zona floating.

She reached towards him, and he made out the terror on her face. He wondered what was going on when she threw back her head and screamed. The image faded and Ephraim blinked away stars.

"Mr. Godwin," Kimball said helping him to his feet, "Are you all right?"

"No...something is wrong with Zona," Ephraim called out as he stumbled into a run.

,CHAPTER FIFTY

Oringo entered the room with a broad smile. He stepped to the table and opened the empty cage, slipping the dark shape inside.

"I gather it was successful?" Cook asked with a nod towards the cages.

"Yes Master...quite successful," he replied as he knelt in front of the man. He kept his head bowed, eyes on the floor, and waited. Oringo caught from the corner of his eye, his Master striding to the table and lifted the cage containing the newest creature.

"You have done well," Cook said before placing the cage back down. "Were you able to retrieve your locket?"

Oringo's hands clenched at his side. He knew better than to show anger when answering, so he stayed quiet. He bit his lower lip and shook his head, hoping it would be enough. Cook's large hand patted his shoulder as he moved back across the room.

"Soon enough I suppose," Cook said as he sat on the single wooden chair in the room. "You may rise."

Oringo silently counted to ten and stood. He was now allowed to move about freely and even speak if necessary. Both things, his previous teacher had frowned upon.

"I think after those things are done in the tunnels, I can head back and get it with no problem."

"Possibly," Cook said, tapping his finger against his lips in thought. "As I told you before, we will be leaving London soon. Maybe there will be time before we go, but I can't guarantee it."

Oringo nodded, casting his eyes down to hide the smoldering anger from his Master. He hated Ephraim Godwin for stealing his locket, and he prayed those creatures made his final moments painful.

,***

"Dash it all," Dr. Livingstone exclaimed as Ephraim burst into the house through the backdoor causing the men to jump.

Ephraim took in the room and sprang to Zona's side, squatting next to her and taking her hand. Her hand squeezed his but she didn't awake.

"She will live Ephraim," Livingstone said patting his shoulder. "But we are all in danger, and we have much to discuss."

The doctor glanced around the room and said nothing more.

"Me and the lads are heading back to the tunnel to check on the situation," Kimbell said as he led the constables from the house. Ephraim didn't look away from Zona, nodding, and waving with his free hand.

"Inspector, I think it prudent to return Ms. Whitlock to her home," Livingstone said at the back door. "I feel nothing else can be done here."

"I agree Doctor, but keep an eye out...we are no longer dealing with absolutes," Kimbell replied before shutting the door.

"Whatever do you think he meant by that?" Livingstone asked as he returned to Ephraim's side.

"Nothing is as it seems, and soon we very well may be facing the devil himself," Ephraim said, his voice a whisper. He stood, allowing Zona's hand to slip from his and turned to face the doctor. "I fear we are no longer trying to save the lives of a few individuals. This is greater than we first expected, and evil is being unleashed on our fair London that will spread out and soak the Empire in blood."

Livingstone nodded but stood quietly. Ephraim began to pace the room, holding the locket in his hand. He swung it back and forth, mimicking his motion through the kitchen. He mumbled to himself but ignored both Zona and Livingstone. Pulling up suddenly, he pointed to the doctor.

"We must get you away," Ephraim declared. "You are the last on Mr. Cook's list for revenge and I will be damned if I let that madman finish that particular quest."

Livingstone shook his head, "No. I will stay for a bit at least. I want to make sure Ms. Whitlock is up and well before slinking away to let you handle protecting Queen and Country."

The last words came out like a thunder blast and Ephraim gave a start. He bound to Livingstone, patted his arm, and offered a chagrined smile.

"My dear man, I am not trying to whisk you away like a babe from wolves. I simply wanted to keep you far away from the madman's grasp."

Livingstone tilted his head before sighing and explaining the rooftop incident. Ephraim stepped back with shock and disbelief on his features. Yet when Livingstone ended his tale with Zona's expelling of the poison, he nodded and slammed his fist into his palm.

"We are one step...no, a hundred steps behind this fiend," Ephraim said as he studied Zona's sleeping form. "Let us take her home. Mary will care for her better than either one of us could."

"Her own bed will do her a world of good," Livingstone agreed with a nod. He moved outside to flag down a carriage.

Ephraim scooped Zona up and held her against his chest. He looked fondly at the woman in his arms and his chest tightened. Although they'd only met days ago, a lifetime had passed and Ephraim wondered how they would have survived without her. He kissed her softly on the top of her head and left Chattoway's house behind.

© 2020 Naked Cat Press. All Rights Reserved

The Pope Lick Massacre is available on Amazon

I've done a soft release of my second novel, The Pope Lick Massacre.  If you follow my author page on Amazon (and it would be super cool if ya did), you probably already know as they send out an email.  I'm about to start a big push on social media, but I wanted to start here on my blog.  You can get it on the Kindle or in paperback.  There had been a delay with printed material on Amazon, but they seem to be back on schedule.  

And like always, Prime members get free shipping.  Oh yeah!

I've updated the website as well.  I've added a "How to Help" page with suggestions for helping any of your favorite Independent Writers and an extended opening on the home-blog page.  I plan on doing this every month with any new and exciting news.  You will also see a new page for the 2nd book.  All the book pages will have ways to watch the trailers, see reviews, and get to the books quickly.  

Makes it real easy to share on social media...

I also want to throw a super big THANK YOU to everyone who immediately purchased The Shadow Within right out of the gate and was forgiving to a new author/publisher.  I learned some new tricks since my first release, and The Pope Lick Massacre is going to look great on your phone, tablet, or in paperback.  FYI...I've gone back and updated the formatting on the Shadow Within so it will also look great to new readers.  

Amazon basically told me suck it when I asked them to update people who'd already purchased it 

If you have any questions please feel free to email me or hit me on Facebook.  If you don't follow my author page, please do.  It helps a lot.  Also something I'm going to put on this post a few others, I have bookmarks for both books.  If you want some, let me know and we can work out getting some to you.