A.K. Frailey's Blog, page 10
April 26, 2023
Discover the Inspiring Christian-Based Science Fiction Author A. K. Frailey
Take a fascinating journey into the creative and imaginative world of Christian-based science fiction author A. K. Frailey. A. K. Frailey, an author of a historical sci-fi and science fiction series, short story collections, inspirational non-fiction books, a children’s book, and a poetry collection, has published 17 books. Her novels expand from the OldEarth world to the Newearth universe—where deception rules but truth prevails.
What is Christian-Based Historical Fiction?Christian-based historical fiction is a genre of literature that encompasses both religious and historical themes in its narratives. It differs from other types of Christian fiction in that it not only focuses on spiritual themes but also provides an accurate and compelling depiction of past or period settings. These stories often include references to scriptures, religious symbols, and figures and provide moral messages throughout. Proponents of these stories argue that they can provide readers with valuable insights into history and faith by demonstrating how people of different faiths and backgrounds interacted in their cultures’ respective times. Moreover, this type of story can be powerful in terms of showing how faith has been used to triumph over struggles in difficult times. Skeptics, however, point out that some authors may sacrifice accuracy when adhering to the need to tell a compelling story in order to make it more religiously appealing. There is no denying that books falling within this genre have great potential for inspiring readers on both spiritual and historical levels. As readers embark on their journey for a greater understanding of their faith and the world around them, diving into the pages of Christian-based historical science fiction can be very rewarding.
A.K. Frailey CaptivatesWith themes ranging from faith, redemption, and grace; masterful plot lines that are captivating, thrilling, and even heartwarming; and a breadth and depth of characters that come to life on the page, the author has something for everyone. Delve into the unique landscape of faith-based sci-fi and explore its fascinating universe with A. K. Frailey, learning something new and exciting each time.
Faith-Driven PlotsAuthor A. K. Frailey is known for intricate science fiction novels that are easily recognizable for their faith-driven plots. Her characters, settings, and events all reference Christianity and the Bible, making it clear that faith has a prominent role in her stories. However, the author does not focus only on the Christian aspects of her books. She also allows them to be fully fleshed-out works of leisurely science fiction. A. K. Frailey’s novels juxtapose religion and science fiction together in a way that individuals of all faiths can enjoy. The success of A. K. Frailey is a testament to the power of the Science Fiction/Christianity genre she has crafted over her career. Readers often find themselves enchanted and moved by her stories because of the connection they and the protagonists feel with their faith. When combined with themes of self-discovery and parallel universes, the plots become even more intriguing and captivating. No matter which side of the argument one takes on the subject, one thing is sure – audiences keep coming back for more from A. K. Frailey due to her unique combination of genres.
Broad AppealAuthor A. K. Frailey has succeeded by focusing on intertwining historical sci-fi and Christianity. Her novels often feature themes of self-discovery and references to the Bible so that readers can connect with their faith more deeply. By striking a balance between these two genres, A. K. Frailey appeals to various audiences, creating stories that captivate readers and stay in their memories long after they finish reading.
The Juxtaposition of Religion and Science FictionReligion and science fiction often occupy two different worlds. However, Author A. K. Frailey creatively bridges the gap in her work. Some readers believe that the clash between science and religion is too great to reconcile, viewing the two as diametrically opposed. On the other hand, some see no conflict between the two and actively seek to explore a world where both are embraced simultaneously. In taking a closer look at A. K. Frailey’s faith-driven plots, it is evident that she falls into the latter camp. Her stories are filled with compelling characters and thought-provoking themes. A. K. Frailey invokes interdisciplinary connections between Christianity and sci-fi in unique ways. Her narratives leave readers holding their breath during every twist and turn. By seamlessly incorporating religious elements with her innovative use of historical sci-fi, A. K. Frailey brilliantly highlights how technology can enhance man’s spiritual understanding without opposing each other. Rather than existing in binary opposition, A. K. Frailey’s subtle juxtaposition of religion and science fiction invites readers to contemplate how our relationship with technology evolves, ultimately leading to more profound reflections on how our spirituality transcends preconceived boundaries. Her brilliant type of artful fusion brings new possibilities to emerging generations by emphasizing enlightenment instead of division — something crucial for both fans of sci-fi and believers alike. Her kind of creativity drives A. K. Frailey’s writing style and encourages readers to marvel at her ambitious stories that stretch beyond typical religious boundaries.
Skillful Writing StyleAuthor A. K. Frailey’s writing style is an effective way of frustrating both sides of the debate between religion and science fiction. By blurring the lines between the two, A. K. Frailey allows readers to come to their conclusions while exploring interesting philosophical questions. Through carefully chosen words and detailed descriptions, she creates worlds in which faith can be married with technology in a believable way but still challenges societal norms.
By skillfully weaving religion and science fiction together through her writing style to create thought-provoking works often filled with emotional power and significance, A. K. Frailey serves as an example for future generations of authors looking to find a definition within the gray area between these two known entities. Such stories ultimately allow us to explore our beliefs in ways that may have seemed impossible before, engaging both sides in meaningful discourse while building bridges instead of walls. As A. K. Frailey’s works show us, it is possible to push beyond traditional genres into unique new forms where faith is married with technology.
According to a review from Blue Ink Review, Frailey writes in a crisp, lean, and richly detailed style, building a fascinating, absorbing world. Frailey delivers a dynamic multidimensional twist to an otherwise prehistorical drama, something of a cross between Jean Auel’s Clan of the Cave Bear and Ursula K. Le Guin’s Earthsea series. Readers will hope to learn more in future sequels.Mixing Historical Themes and IdeasAuthor A. K. Frailey has gained acclaim for the way in which she blends historical themes and ideas into her Christian-based science fiction. Her works never succumb to dry, improvable history lessons but rather seek to create a sense of engagement with the characters and their journeys, allowing readers to draw from authentic historical accounts if desired. A. K. Frailey makes sure to ground some of her speculative fiction stories in a realistic historical setting, which adds another layer of believability to each tale. She approaches this by utilizing source material to flesh out settings and characters in a way that many other Christian-based science fiction authors do not. She weaves powerful messages of morality and faith with believable settings anchored in historical facts. In doing so, she provides an inspiring message while simultaneously engaging readers with tangible facts they can learn more about on their own. Christian-based science fiction is as much about education as it is about entertainment. Through A. K. Frailey’s works, readers are presented with scientifically accurate accounts alongside narratives of spiritual transformation. This allows them to explore the realms of both faith and science in ways that can be incredibly inspiring yet still grounded in the reality of history. With skillful integration of themes from both sides of these seemingly disparate worlds, A. K. Frailey’s Christian-based science fiction stands out as some of the most eloquently written and emotionally powerful stories currently available. Her profound impact on readers helps them make connections between faith, science, and history that could not have been made otherwise. Such links prompt us all to think more deeply about our lives, beliefs, and shared history—opening up a world of possibility and inspiring exploration in the future.
Character Development in Christian-based Science Fiction In Christian-based science fiction, character development is integral to the overall narrative. With such detailed backgrounds steeped in faith and reality, the characters become much more believable and three-dimensional than most Christian-based science fiction authors manage to achieve. It allows readers to understand a character’s motivations, empathize with them, and relate to their struggles. Author A. K. Frailey is a master of creating compelling, engaging, relatable characters, even with their historical influences. For example, in A. K. Frailey’s books, the protagonists are often seen as spiritual priests or messengers tasked with carrying out a divine mission. They serve as strong archetypal figures in that their journeys reflect the journey of faith taken by many Christians throughout history. Her characters often have complex backstories intertwined with historical themes and ideas from past centuries. This helps bring to life the struggles and victories of the faithful on their journey of faith, making the story both emotionally powerful and thought-provoking. At the same time, such characters remain rooted in modern sensibilities while being imbued with an aura of timelessness that captures a reader’s attention and imagination. Author A. K. Frailey successfully combines historical themes and ideas with modern sensibilities in her Christian-based science fiction novels. The mix creates a unique blend of characters whose stories can capture the hearts and minds of readers while inspiring them through their spiritual journeys. By creating captivating characters in her way, author A. K. Frailey demonstrates her mastery of crafting impactful Christian-based science fiction stories that engage readers and leave lasting impressions.
Readership EngagementThe level of engagement generated by A. K. Frailey’s unforgettable characters increases when readers can connect with them emotionally. How does author A. K. Frailey foster their connection? Having developed complex characters in her Christian-based science fiction works, Author A. K. Frailey’s books’ readership is kept highly engaged with her combination of religious themes and historical sci-fi, providing an interesting fusion that has attracted a wide array of readers who would have ordinarily not picked up a book with such a singular focus on either genre. Readers can relate to both worlds simultaneously, which has led to enthusiastic fans accumulating around her work. The mainstay is that her stories center around core Christian themes yet are action-packed and engaging enough to captivate all readers’ hearts, no matter their religion or background. Not only that, but her books also teeter between the genres of Young Adult and Adult Fantasy Fiction. Fitting in both categories, her works cater to a more diverse readership, as youngsters and adults can find something in these books that speaks to them. Popular subjects such as love, family-friendliness, and redemption can be relatable for all audiences, thus creating an impactful story arc and driving readers to want more. Through readership engagement with A. K. Frailey’s books may vary – the reviews from her audience are proof alone that A. K. Frailey’s writing stands out amongst other similar authors who are tackling Christian-based science fiction works. With each book she publishes, there is something new to explore within these ever-evolving themes presented by A. K. Frailey’s impressive portfolio of texts. It is clear that A. K. Frailey’s books have certainly left their mark on their particular genre of literature.
Comparisons with Other Science Fiction Authors Compared with other science fiction authors, it is clear that A. K. Frailey stands out in the genre. For one thing, her works contain a unique thesis—one that centers around Christian values. While some might view A. K. Frailey’s stories simply as historical sci-fi, they contain much deeper relevance and meaning to the reader. Furthermore, she uses futuristic elements to explore moral dilemmas and provide thoughtful questions. It is this combination of style and technique that sets A. K. Frailey apart from many other sci-fi authors. A. K. Frailey’s writing also stands out because of its intricate storytelling structure; it contains an unpredictable narrative journey that can surprise even the most experienced reader. Each story provides sufficient detail to ensure the reader feels a sense of investment yet quickly resolves conflicts to keep them engaged. Her stories tend to focus on issues of faith, spiritual growth, and external struggles, making them much more immersive than many other authors’ works. There is no denying the universal appeal of A. K. Frailey’s novels. Her books have garnered praise from readers across a wide range of ages, religious beliefs, and backgrounds because they speak to something deep within each person. They provide readers with a unique point of view on spiritual growth while still telling engaging stories filled with thrilling plots and characters that are easy to empathize with. As such, her work has earned adoration from numerous critics and readers alike—a feat rarely achieved by any author in the genre. The uniqueness and promise for meaningful introspection set A. K. Frailey apart from other contemporary Christian-based science fiction authors—and why people continue to turn to her repeatedly.
Awards and Recognitions A.K. Frailey has won 2-course director’s awards in Episodic & Serial Writing & Film Screenwriting. She was a finalist in the Tuscany Press Writing Contest and was a two-time winner of the Catholic Writers Seal of Approval. She also received an Honorable Mention in the Hollywood Book Festival and made runner-up in an Indie publishing contest. Reviews of “HOMESTEAD” A.K. Frailey’s novel HOMESTEAD presents readers with modern-day concerns and questions. Reviews of the HOMESTEAD include: What if the power went out and never came back on? With an unusual challenge and bizarre twists, Homestead is a truly unique story that inspires thoughtfulness about how we live our lives. ~ Theresa Linden, author of supernatural thriller Tortured Soul Homestead asks a profound question – What happens when humanity realizes it needs a power greater than technology.~ Craig Scalise A.K. Frailey’s newest book is a compelling read and is particularly relevant for current-day events. Highly recommend! ~Ellen Gable, award-winning author Reviews of “The Road Goes Ever On”Her inspirational non-fiction novel, The Road Goes Ever On – A Christian Journey through the Lord of the Rings, has received praise for her storytelling, including the following:
A. K. Frailey takes passages from the Rings trilogy and weaves an almost ethereal beauty into our lives as Christians by comparing the journey of the Fellowship and their struggles to challenge us in our daily walk. Our daily struggles. ~Baumgardner “This book reminded me of the spiritual battle raging all around us. It inspired me to pray for the church to stand strong and be brave.” ~Kumby Ann gives us a glimpse into the Christian ethos that was fundamental to Tolkien’s life and work. Do yourself and your children a favor. Buy, read, and soak in this book. ~John LaBriola, Author of Onward Catholic Soldier “I love the comparisons and the background of the characters. I have enjoyed The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit since I was 16 and read the first pages. This was enriching, and also during this tumultuous time. I Am encouraged that others believe in the truth of Jesus and standing up for Truth. Thank you for writing such a wonderful encouraging book.” – Dobbins, 2020 GoodReads “Wow! This book blew me away. This was the fifth volume I have read from the masterful pen of Ann A.K. Frailey. I have loved everything of hers that I have written. Both the fiction and non-fiction. But as much as I love her fiction, I think this is the best of her works that I have read to date. I honestly believe this is a book any Catholic, any Christian would benefit from reading. To be honest, I bought it because of the author, but it was a very timely read. And one I know I will return to again and again.” – McEvoy, 2020 GoodReadsCheck out more book reviews at https://akfrailey.com/book-reviews/
Are you ready for an adventure unlike any other? Something with twists and turns and journeys through time? Look no further – A.K. Frailey’s Christian-Based Historical Science Fiction is what you’ve been waiting for. With her captivating storylines, religious themes, and intricate details, these books are sure to pull you in and waiting for more.
The post Discover the Inspiring Christian-Based Science Fiction Author A. K. Frailey first appeared on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
April 21, 2023
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure
In this Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book, OldEarth Aram Encounter, the first in the OldEarth Encounter series, Onias and Eoban challenge both good and evil.
Onias strolled through the undulating grass. As the sun crested the horizon, he looked back. His wife and sons were safe. His trusted friend, Obed, was seeing to their care and to the care of the other women and children. He had been told about the clan on the other side of the lake and of their friendly reception. He smiled as his gaze swept over their sturdy, well-built homes with cleared land and neat gardens. The odor of goats and sheep carried on a gentle breeze. Their bleating filled the air as they clamored over the trail toward the green fields.
Only the men of his clan remained. One of the neighboring clansmen, Barak, had arrived to offer his assistance. Pink and golden sunlight illuminated the clay rooftops. The thatched buildings had weathered to a soft grey, and the mud-brick walls glistened like burnished gold. The world appeared fresh and indescribably beautiful.
His hand went to his pocket, and he felt the shape of a figure he had been carving for Jonas. Now that she was expecting again, he wanted to give her something to take her mind off their troubles. If he failed in his secret mission, it would be up to the clan to prove their worth as warriors. But he could not imagine failing. He had never met a man who was not willing to accept such an offer as he was willing to make. He would offer their crops, tools, and whatever goods the invaders wanted. They would be stripped, but they would live and build again, and their women would not mourn the death of sons and husbands in battle.
Blinking, he faced east again. His resolve strengthened, and his pace quickened. A sound echoed over the open land. Onias frowned and halted mid-step.
Eoban pounded through the waving grass. “Onias, stop! Wait!”
With his hand tapping his thigh, Onias stood. His scowl deepened, shadowing his face.
Gasping his words, Eoban floundered to a halt. “Onias, you can’t do this.” He grabbed Onias’ shoulder for support and sucked in deep breaths.
Pulling away, Onias started east. “I can and I must. Go home and wait for me.”
Eoban circled in front of him. “If you get too close to the enemy, you’ll never return home.”
“The enemy is in your own mind, Eoban. I am going to meet a man like myself—a man who wants what I have and who’ll be surprised and pleased by my offer.”
With pounding feet, Eoban ran after him. “You’re a fool! You think that because you don’t understand evil—it doesn’t exist, but it does. These men will destroy you because they like the feel of the act. They don’t care. Their evil is stronger than your good.”
Stopping once more, Onias stared at Eoban for a long moment. “If I’m a fool, at least I’m an honest fool. I’ve already faced death. It doesn’t scare me. If I die doing what I know is right, I’ll be better off than those chained by fear. Now, return to the warriors. You can prepare for battle if it makes you feel better. I’ll face the enemy alone.”
Eoban stood with his arms limp at his side.
Onias wandered away as if he were taking an early morning stroll.
~~~
Eoban cursed under his breath. Propping his hands on his hips, he stood and raged. Suddenly, fear gripped his heart and his eyes widened.
Two figures ran toward Onias.
A scream caught in Eoban’s throat as he sprinted forward. Joash!
Joash plowed into Onias and threw him to the ground
Onias struggled to his feet, talking, gesturing—to no avail. “Listen to me! We’ll surrender. My clan will give you whatever you want. Let me talk to your leader—”
Holding his spear aloft, Joash sneered as the other man held Onias on the ground.
Onias squirmed. “Don’t you understand? You can have the food, the animals, everything. Just—”
Joash sucked in a deep breath. “We don’t make treaties. We conquer.” With the full force of his strength, he thrust the spear into Onias.
Eoban charged, barreling in, and grabbed both warriors about the middle. Puffing hard, he wrestled the spear from the silent warrior and struck him on the head with a crushing blow.
Joash wrestled his spear out of Onias’ limp body.
Eoban turned his spear on Joash.
His grin twisting grotesquely, Joash spat his words. “You have a choice. Waste your time trying to kill me—or save your friend.”
Swallowing back bile, Eoban glanced from Onias’ body to Joash. “Start running. But someday, I will find you and take your head from your shoulders.” He lunged forward.
Joash jumped back.
Swerving on his heel, Eoban pelted to Onias’ side.
Regaining his sneer, Joash dashed to a safe distance, turned, and shouted. “He’s a fool. He deserved to die.” His laughter drifted to the horizon.
Eoban bent over Onias, peering into his fluttering eyes.
Onias clutched Eoban’s tunic. “A fool, yes. But I still believe—” His head fell back, and his sightless eyes gazed up into the brilliant sky. His hands slipped off Eoban’s chest. Out of Onias’s grip dropped the small, carved figure of a woman and child.
~~~
Eoban barely noticed the weight of the lifeless body he carried. His tears, like a burning fire, seared his face. Joash’s final thrust replayed in his mind. Eoban hastened to a jog. Onias’ head bobbed mercilessly. Eoban hefted his friend’s body over his shoulder and hurried on.
As he strode into the village, everyone poured out to meet him. No words were spoken. Eyes spoke louder than any voice.
Two men ran forward and threw cloaks and blankets in the place where Onias would often hold council in the center of the village. Eoban gently laid his body down, folding Onias’ arms across his chest.
Clansmen gathered weapons, stripped off unnecessary garments, and prepared their bodies for battle.
Like thunder, so Eoban roared. “Onias died trying to save us. His sacrifice will not be in vain. We will fight!”
“We fight!” Echoed throughout the village as the lust for blood engulfed them.
The chant had hardly begun when a new shout rang out. “They’re coming! Look east!”
Eoban lined the men in battle array, striding from man to man, assigning fighting instructions. He stopped before the blazing eyes of Ishtar.
He clasped the youth on the shoulder. “Ishtar, do you mean to fight against your own clan? Against your own father? No one expects it of you. Retreat to the other side of the lake. You’ll be of better service there than here.”
Ishtar’s lips drew into a tight line. “I accept my fate. My father thinks I am a coward. I think he is evil. We shall see who’s right.”
With a weary grunt, Eoban shook his head and moved on.
Suddenly, Ishtar’s head jerked up in recognition.
Neb’s taunting call bellowed over the grassland. Hundreds of feet pounded closer.
Ishtar’s voice dropped to a husky whisper. “They’re here…”
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey.For novels, short stories, poems, and non-fiction inspirational books, check outA. K. Frailey’s Amazon Author PageHistorical Sci-Fi Adventure Book One
“The history is fascinating, the characters are uniquely intriguing, the plot is very rich, and the events are fascinating.” ~OnlineBookClub
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book Two
“The story was wonderful and well written.” ~Culver
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book Three
“A classic good vs evil scenario. Well written. Fast-paced and adventure-filled. Readers both young and old will enjoy.” ~My Book Addiction
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book Four
“Fraley introduces historical figures and events in a way that is totally credible, while at the same time entertaining.” ~Charles
“a remarkably effective mix of bittersweet romance and murder mystery—one that also examines the dynamics of politics and power as well as cultural conflicts between pagans and Christians, Anglo-Saxons and Britons, and landowners and workers. It does it all via the personal perspectives of a family of intriguing, earnest characters.” ~Kirkus Review
For a complete list of books by A. K. Frailey, book trailers, and reviews, check out A. K. Frailey’s Books Page For translated versions of A. K. Frailey’s Books, check out A. K. Frailey’s Translated BooksPhoto: Cover of OldEarth Aram Encounter by A. K. Frailey
The post Historical Sci-Fi Adventure first appeared on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book
In this Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book, OldEarth Aram Encounter, the first in the OldEarth Encounter series, Onias and Eoban challenge both good and evil.
Onias strolled through the undulating grass. As the sun crested the horizon, he looked back. His wife and sons were safe. His trusted friend, Obed, was seeing to their care and to the care of the other women and children. He had been told about the clan on the other side of the lake and of their friendly reception. He smiled as his gaze swept over their sturdy, well-built homes with cleared land and neat gardens. The odor of goats and sheep carried on a gentle breeze. Their bleating filled the air as they clamored over the trail toward the green fields.
Only the men of his clan remained. One of the neighboring clansmen, Barak, had arrived to offer his assistance. Pink and golden sunlight illuminated the clay rooftops. The thatched buildings had weathered to a soft grey, and the mud-brick walls glistened like burnished gold. The world appeared fresh and indescribably beautiful.
His hand went to his pocket, and he felt the shape of a figure he had been carving for Jonas. Now that she was expecting again, he wanted to give her something to take her mind off their troubles. If he failed in his secret mission, it would be up to the clan to prove their worth as warriors. But he could not imagine failing. He had never met a man who was not willing to accept such an offer as he was willing to make. He would offer their crops, tools, and whatever goods the invaders wanted. They would be stripped, but they would live and build again, and their women would not mourn the death of sons and husbands in battle.
Blinking, he faced east again. His resolve strengthened, and his pace quickened. A sound echoed over the open land. Onias frowned and halted mid-step.
Eoban pounded through the waving grass. “Onias, stop! Wait!”
With his hand tapping his thigh, Onias stood. His scowl deepened, shadowing his face.
Gasping his words, Eoban floundered to a halt. “Onias, you can’t do this.” He grabbed Onias’ shoulder for support and sucked in deep breaths.
Pulling away, Onias started east. “I can and I must. Go home and wait for me.”
Eoban circled in front of him. “If you get too close to the enemy, you’ll never return home.”
“The enemy is in your own mind, Eoban. I am going to meet a man like myself—a man who wants what I have and who’ll be surprised and pleased by my offer.”
With pounding feet, Eoban ran after him. “You’re a fool! You think that because you don’t understand evil—it doesn’t exist, but it does. These men will destroy you because they like the feel of the act. They don’t care. Their evil is stronger than your good.”
Stopping once more, Onias stared at Eoban for a long moment. “If I’m a fool, at least I’m an honest fool. I’ve already faced death. It doesn’t scare me. If I die doing what I know is right, I’ll be better off than those chained by fear. Now, return to the warriors. You can prepare for battle if it makes you feel better. I’ll face the enemy alone.”
Eoban stood with his arms limp at his side.
Onias wandered away as if he were taking an early morning stroll.
~~~
Eoban cursed under his breath. Propping his hands on his hips, he stood and raged. Suddenly, fear gripped his heart and his eyes widened.
Two figures ran toward Onias.
A scream caught in Eoban’s throat as he sprinted forward. Joash!
Joash plowed into Onias and threw him to the ground
Onias struggled to his feet, talking, gesturing—to no avail. “Listen to me! We’ll surrender. My clan will give you whatever you want. Let me talk to your leader—”
Holding his spear aloft, Joash sneered as the other man held Onias on the ground.
Onias squirmed. “Don’t you understand? You can have the food, the animals, everything. Just—”
Joash sucked in a deep breath. “We don’t make treaties. We conquer.” With the full force of his strength, he thrust the spear into Onias.
Eoban charged, barreling in, and grabbed both warriors about the middle. Puffing hard, he wrestled the spear from the silent warrior and struck him on the head with a crushing blow.
Joash wrestled his spear out of Onias’ limp body.
Eoban turned his spear on Joash.
His grin twisting grotesquely, Joash spat his words. “You have a choice. Waste your time trying to kill me—or save your friend.”
Swallowing back bile, Eoban glanced from Onias’ body to Joash. “Start running. But someday, I will find you and take your head from your shoulders.” He lunged forward.
Joash jumped back.
Swerving on his heel, Eoban pelted to Onias’ side.
Regaining his sneer, Joash dashed to a safe distance, turned, and shouted. “He’s a fool. He deserved to die.” His laughter drifted to the horizon.
Eoban bent over Onias, peering into his fluttering eyes.
Onias clutched Eoban’s tunic. “A fool, yes. But I still believe—” His head fell back, and his sightless eyes gazed up into the brilliant sky. His hands slipped off Eoban’s chest. Out of Onias’s grip dropped the small, carved figure of a woman and child.
~~~
Eoban barely noticed the weight of the lifeless body he carried. His tears, like a burning fire, seared his face. Joash’s final thrust replayed in his mind. Eoban hastened to a jog. Onias’ head bobbed mercilessly. Eoban hefted his friend’s body over his shoulder and hurried on.
As he strode into the village, everyone poured out to meet him. No words were spoken. Eyes spoke louder than any voice.
Two men ran forward and threw cloaks and blankets in the place where Onias would often hold council in the center of the village. Eoban gently laid his body down, folding Onias’ arms across his chest.
Clansmen gathered weapons, stripped off unnecessary garments, and prepared their bodies for battle.
Like thunder, so Eoban roared. “Onias died trying to save us. His sacrifice will not be in vain. We will fight!”
“We fight!” Echoed throughout the village as the lust for blood engulfed them.
The chant had hardly begun when a new shout rang out. “They’re coming! Look east!”
Eoban lined the men in battle array, striding from man to man, assigning fighting instructions. He stopped before the blazing eyes of Ishtar.
He clasped the youth on the shoulder. “Ishtar, do you mean to fight against your own clan? Against your own father? No one expects it of you. Retreat to the other side of the lake. You’ll be of better service there than here.”
Ishtar’s lips drew into a tight line. “I accept my fate. My father thinks I am a coward. I think he is evil. We shall see who’s right.”
With a weary grunt, Eoban shook his head and moved on.
Suddenly, Ishtar’s head jerked up in recognition.
Neb’s taunting call bellowed over the grassland. Hundreds of feet pounded closer.
Ishtar’s voice dropped to a husky whisper. “They’re here…”
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey.For novels, short stories, poems, and non-fiction inspirational books, check outA. K. Frailey’s Amazon Author PageHistorical Sci-Fi Adventure Book One
“The history is fascinating, the characters are uniquely intriguing, the plot is very rich, and the events are fascinating.” ~OnlineBookClub
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book Two
“The story was wonderful and well written.” ~Culver
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book Three
“A classic good vs evil scenario. Well written. Fast-paced and adventure-filled. Readers both young and old will enjoy.” ~My Book Addiction
Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book Four
“Fraley introduces historical figures and events in a way that is totally credible, while at the same time entertaining.” ~Charles
“a remarkably effective mix of bittersweet romance and murder mystery—one that also examines the dynamics of politics and power as well as cultural conflicts between pagans and Christians, Anglo-Saxons and Britons, and landowners and workers. It does it all via the personal perspectives of a family of intriguing, earnest characters.” ~Kirkus Review
Photo: Cover of OldEarth Aram Encounter by A. K. Frailey
The post Historical Sci-Fi Adventure Book first appeared on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
April 14, 2023
Spring Season Reflection
In a spring season reflection, I experience the outstanding joy of spring, allowing the presence of a greater Presence to infiltrate my mind.
It’s spring now, and the birds know it. So do the frogs, the trees, and every insect known in these parts, and—intellectually— so does every human being in this hemisphere. Despite this momentous event in all our lives, our reactions are startlingly different.
If human beings were as in tune with nature as—well—nature is, then we’d be treating this momentous event with far greater respect. The trees are putting out brilliant new leaves and bursting into blossom for the occasion. Insects have literally come to life. Birds are building fresh nests and preparing for the next generation. Even the frogs are singing their hearts out each evening.
Other than a change of clothes, planting farm fields, and altering the date on forms, it appears as if the seasonal change doesn’t affect human beings nearly as exorbitantly.
Granted, if we burst into song (or croaks, as the case may be) walking down the street, we’d probably get a few stares, and if we tore our houses apart and built them anew, there would be legitimate questions asked. We can’t grow new skin, exactly, and a completely new line of clothes would be rather expensive. As for new life, we celebrate that at Easter, with the resurrection of Christ. As for our bodies, well, we have to wait our turn.
But still, as I sit on my back porch and feel the warm sun rays seeping into my vitamin-depleted skin, watch the sparrows, cardinals, robins, and jays flutter about in energetic excitement, contemplate the pale green seed pods dangling from the tips of maple branches, while white and pink blossoms dot the peach, cherry, and apple trees, I can’t help but think that I have greatly underappreciated the miracle of spring.
This weekend, my daughter turned over the garden beds and planted the potatoes and onions. My greenhouse, which my son put up for me and anchored down so it didn’t blow away in stormy weather, is brim full with baby tomato, pepper, and assorted other vegetable plants. The chick house has been swept and made ready, while the cats’ and dogs’ winter accommodations have been moved to summer quarters. Even the bees are setting their abodes into proper order and scoping out the lay of the land.
It’s not that things aren’t getting done, for clearly, this rural neighborhood’s to-do list has grown to formidable lengths. Even the forsythia bush seems to be in a hurry to get dressed in gay apparel. But spiritually, mentally, emotionally—I have to ask—Do I really appreciate what is happening here, now?
The headline news is as terrible as ever. Work conflicts, family misunderstandings, highway stress, school bullying, economic trials, and warning of near doom, all seem very much the same.
Perhaps, I wonder, if we humans spent as much time living in the present as we do in the past and the future, we would be able to experience the outstanding joy of spring.
Personally, I raced through Lent at high speed. Holy Week arrived, and I had to come to a skidding halt. I was surprised at how hard that was. Kind of like running into a brick wall, without the black eye. It felt so unnatural to sit in a quiet church or in my room and simply be. Listen. Pray slow prayers. Allow the presence of a greater Presence to infiltrate my conscious mind. My soul.
Easter is here…the day, the season, a way of life. Like springtime, it offers newness, but I have to accept it. Or I might miss it.
In the Eternal now of Supernatural reality, all seasons are present, all the time, on our wonderful and amazing planet. Just like how the sun is always rising and falling every moment of every day.
Yet in a generous benevolence, we are offered linear time, moment by moment, season by season, lifetime by lifetime.
Bread is baking in the oven, and dinner will be ready soon. Before I rush off to feed my kids’ bodies, I am grateful to God, the source of every season, to sit for a few moments and feed my soul the glory of spring.
~~~
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey. For novels, short stories, poems, and non-fiction inspirational books by A. K. Frailey, check out her Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/akfrailey
“I loved reading Ann’s wise, hope-giving thoughts about life and love. Truly, life is the art of overcoming obstacles and becoming stronger to live a fuller life. Beautiful work!” ~Ksenia
“Sometimes I feel sad about things, personal and…the world, and find inspiration in your stories.” ~Edith Fréccia
“The author uses the virtues and vices of Tolkien’s creations to remind us that those same virtues and vices are present in modern days.” ~Joan
Photo https://pixabay.com/photos/anemone-blue-flowers-blossom-bloom-2396299/
The post Spring Season Reflection first appeared on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
The post Spring Season Reflection appeared first on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
April 7, 2023
Mystical Sci-Fi Story
Enjoy a mystical sci-fi story, continuing the Newearth adventures with Relevance and Variant all grown up. Are they ready to party?
Clouds as big as motherships progressed across the blue sky, dropping rain showers as they went. The edge of plowed fields glowed in spring green contrast, while budding trees stood silent, waiting. Shiny orbs hung on the edge of pine branches—potential…what? Liquid nourishment for the wakening soil or the final drop in a flood, carrying desperately needed topsoil far, far away?
Relevance in dark pants and a light cotton shirt stood on his porch, his muscular hands clasping the wood railing, watching the sunset. Melodic chords of Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata resonated from the glossy grand piano in his living room. Inside, Variant, though only a beginner, played with a neurosurgeon’s precision. She had wanted to play this piece above all others, so, in her single-minded way, she had practiced, line by line, this one piece until it resounded with the perfection of an accomplished pianist. Only he knew that she could play nothing else. She would never care to know anything else.
His fingers still tingled with the vibration of violin strings as he accompanied her a short time before. His musical repertoire was much wider, since he luxuriated in the magnificent sensation of bringing mere strings to pulsating life. If he liked, recorded music from a variety of worlds with accompanying orchestras was available, but he preferred the glorifying power of playing an instrument all by himself. He could play nearly a dozen, though only half of those with expert finesse.
The sun glowed like an orange ball, hovering just above the horizon. This day was coming to a close, and relief filled him at the thought. Why had he offered to celebrate a day that no one really knew or cared about? Frankly, he didn’t even believe in birthdays. He had no reason to doubt the veracity of his parents, such that they were, or his maker, fool that he was, but the day the biomb was cracked open and his body exposed to the elemental forces hardly seemed like a day to mark with celebration. But it wasn’t his birthday, anyway. The next milestone, his thirty-third, would not be reached until mid-August, OldEarth reckoning.
No, it was Variant’s day. No one knew the actual day of her birth, as no one had cared to record it, as no one had cared in the least about her. She was a product of a woman’s egg and a man’s sperm, forced together by an obscure scientist who liked playing with genetics. Once the mottle-skinned, odd baby girl was released from her biomb, only an enterprising Ingot trader saw the slightest worth in her.
She was utilized. That fact kept her alive. Which was good enough for her. Or at least, it had been. Until yesterday. When she bumped into a strange woman who shrank away from her as if bitten. Variant was used to nasty reactions, as her mottled skin often reminded humans of snakes, and aliens knew better than to trust her mismatched eyes. But this woman touched off a cascade of childhood memories in Variant, sending her into a violent fit.
Interventionists would have taken her to Bothmal for all the destruction she’d caused. But Relevance intervened. Instead of Bothmal, he took her to his home and promised her a birthday party.
Using a variety of templates from an ancient OldEarth database called Picturesque, he culled the necessary ingredients for a prime birthday party: balloons, a frosted cake with an abundance of candles, a stack of nonsensical presents, and he even hired six co-workers from the hospital where he worked to stand in as guests: a middle-aged human nurse, the Ingot janitorial manager, a Cresta organ transplant specialist, a Uanyi accountant, and two Bauchi doctors. Given enough alcohol and a variety of snacks, they were only too happy to party at his home for a woman they did not know.
Gone now, their sloppy, half-drunk goodbyes still rang in his ears. Variant hadn’t even seemed to notice them. Or the cake, the balloons, or the presents. All she noticed was the piano. He told her that if she behaved herself and did everything he asked, whenever he asked, she could have it.
No words were spoken. She never agreed in any formal language. But when she sat down, pulled up the musical score for the Moonlight Sonata on her datapad, and began to practice, he knew that she was his. Possibly, forever.
The sun down now, the sky a haze of pink and purple, he pulled out his own datapad and considered the woman Variant had identified as the “disturbing force” that had caused her to go into such a mindless rage.
Facial recognition identified her as Clare Smith, a sixty-three-year-old woman and a longtime member of the Newearth Human Services Department with a nearly spotless record. She had one son: Herson, the first Human-Tabun crossbreed created in a Cresta lab.
The irony smacked of what many would call mystical forces, but Relevance knew better. There was no way that Variant could have known. On a busy Newearth street, she had literally run into the mother of his half-brother. His own mother as well.
Darkness descended, and the weak rays of light faded.
As if a gigantic gear finally fell into place, his mission was set. Relevance knew what he wanted for his birthday. He smiled, though he had never known an ounce of mirth. It was time to be reintroduced to his family. But this time, there would be no party.
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey. For novels, short story collections, and inspirational non-fiction books by A. K. Frailey check out her Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/akfrailey
“Science fiction at its best! Creative, thought-provoking, and visual.” ~Lindens
“…delightfully, yet seriously, points to the great value in simply being human.” ~Kaye
Photo https://pixabay.com/illustrations/lake-galaxy-stars-science-fiction-7830935/
The post Mystical Sci-Fi Story appeared first on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
March 31, 2023
Spiritually Healing Poetry
Find peace of mind in spiritually healing poetry, freeing yourself from monsters of the past, and live your life as best you can…
Ungrateful, angry monsters climb,
From the darkest recesses of the mind.
The devil’s playground, they stomp about, forever blind,
Setting teeth to gnash, bash, and grind.
Terror, fear, chill, and wet,
Clawing to the surface yet.
Buried memories churn in sleep,
Intellect rouses spirits rude and deep.
Let them stay dead for the soul’s sake!
But, no, a whisper, this too, shall servant take.
There is no freedom in a lie.
For honesty must face, the false must die.
But who can say what is true?
For me, I know, but not for you.
Experts insist,
Amateurs persist.
Righteous will proclaim their side,
All shall know the good my spirit tried!
He did this and she did that!
It’s all their fault, you mindless brat.
Untangle who did what on a given day,
Self-deception led the way.
Please, don’t let the monsters out.
Reason flees, a deadly rout.
In quiet whispers He.
Full truth takes ages, see.
Trust Me with the past and future too.
Take a moment, now, entrusted to you.
Give your mind, heart, and spirit,
See, hear, smell, taste, feel it.
Monsters and horrors soon dissolve,
In good purpose, once you resolve.
There is no horror of the past,
That has the power your soul to grasp.
Lay away childish frights,
Sleep in peace, God’s embracing nights.
Live your life as best you can,
Begone, horrors, for God makes perfect, both woman and man.
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey. For books by A. K. Frailey check out her Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/akfrailey
“Beautiful and it has left me to ponder further.” ~Barstowe
Photo https://pixabay.com/photos/landscape-nature-forest-sunset-5097979/
The post Spiritually Healing Poetry appeared first on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
March 24, 2023
Audible Historical Sci-Fi Books
I just approved the final narration of OldEarth Aram Encounter so it now joins the Audible historical sci-fi books offerings. It has been quite a journey.
In 1882, a literature reviewer who no one remembers, dismissed Henry Wadsworth Longfellow with the words, “Who, except wretched schoolchildren, now reads Longfellow?” (Ludwig Lewishn) Yet, it was Longfellow who summed up the yearning human experience in the soul-touching words, “There are dreams that cannot die; There are thoughts that make the strong heart weak.” (My Lost Youth) The interior conversation between a writer and reader, speaks to a basic reality: It takes both to make anything wonderful happen, but it only takes one to demolish possibilities.
My historical sci-fi novel, OldEarth Aram Encounter, has been born and died several times. It started as a simple historical fiction novel that told a good story, but not very well. After painful realities forced me to face my limitations as a writer, I decided, after a violent interior struggle, to have another go. I reviewed the story, reacquainted myself with the characters, and saw the opportunity for a better future. If I listened only to the voices of critics, the story would have moldered in a quiet grave.
It’s true that poets, as well as novel writers, speak uniquely to different generations. To Ludwig Lewishn, Longfellow had little of value to say. Or, perhaps, more accurately, Lugwig wasn’t the man to comprehend Longfellow’s meaning. The startling beauty of Longfellow’s words, which warm the cold soul in the modern world of icy calculations, definitely speaks to me.
The story of Aram, a man searching for meaning, discerning between a deceptive friend and a good-hearted enemy, discovering the truth behind an ancient lie, becoming reacquainted with dreadful family members, and learning to love his wife and children, reflects fragments of our human inheritance. If we dare to care, our life must intertwine with both good and evil, stretching us far beyond our limits, demanding impossible greatness, while at the same time, we discover that our frail, broken imperfections are not at all surprising. To love is to treat others as you would yourself, because we see, truly and somewhat horrifyingly, our own deep need.
Those “wretched schoolchildren” who read Longfellow, like Laura Ingalls Wilder, became the bedrock of American grit and determination. A woman who would not give up and endured. A mother who taught her daughter to grow beyond perceived limitations and disappointing failures (her own and her husband’s). Men dreamed dreams that would not die and forged the impossible—airplanes, rocket ships, miracle cures, and the internet.
Not just reacting to his feelings, Aram thinks about things. So do most of the characters in the story. As his world evolves in the next book and grows into Ishtar’s story, the theme changes yet remain utterly human-divine. We are called to something more. Something beyond ourselves.
I rewrote the original story, resurrecting it, with a larger perspective when I added the Newearth perspective. As my understanding had grown through the years, so the characters and the story grew. The original book was rewritten as the first book in the OldEarth Encounter series, taking the entire family lineage from the ancient world into the far-flung universe-embracing future.
I thought I was done, at that point. What else was there to do? It was as good as I could write it, and no amount of tinkering would help now.
Until I discovered the Audible world. Gripping every ounce of my courage and facing the sheer audacity it took to shell out money for a personal enterprise, I listened to various narrators share their interpretations of my work. I figured I would start with a variety—fiction stand-alone books and inspirational non-fiction. That way, I could learn what listeners liked, what actually sold, and what, if anything, would justify diving deeper into the Audible world.
I received several auditions for Homestead, my modern sci-fi family drama, but I was struck by the quality of one narrator in particular. Her tone, voice acting, and authenticity hit me like meeting a second self. She understood my characters! I was astounded. So, a young woman I knew practically nothing about, Madrid Castillo narrated Homestead and did an outstanding job.
As books began to sell, I wasn’t sure when I would—or should—ever offer the OldEarth series. It was a big commitment. But a longtime friend, who has had a beneficial, serendipitous, influence on me, asked me to get Aram on Audible. It was the nudge I needed.
I pondered who would be best, and my mind kept returning to Madrid. A woman who had never done an audible production before Homestead but who managed to develop the necessary skills, rework, and re-edit her work to perfection, was worth investing in. Her skills were growing, and I wanted her passion, abilities, and authenticity expressed in OldEarth Aram Encounter.
It was a smart move.
As I listened to chapters after she kindly uploaded them for me to review, I was amazed at her ability to pick up subtle cues. She understood not only the story but the meaning behind the story. Humor, grief, anger, fear, authority—it was all there. She has taken Aram’s story to a new level. She also is very flexible, kind, and patient. Qualities that mean a lot to a writer with annoying perfectionist tendencies.
A perfectionist himself, Longfellow may have been dismissed by some readers, but the wretched among us are comforted and strengthened, because in truth, “There are dreams that cannot die; There are thoughts that make the strong heart weak.”
As listeners ponder Madrid Castillo’s narration of OldEarth Aram Encounter, I pray that in our shared weakness, we may discover new strength.
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey. For books by A. K. Frailey check out her Amazon Author Page
“The history is fascinating, the characters are uniquely intriguing, the plot is very rich, and the events are fascinating.” ~OnlineBookClub
“a complex tale of sorcery, slave raids, and heroic rescues – dramatic events that bring the ancient world to life.” ~David
“A classic good vs evil scenario. Well written. Fast-paced and adventure-filled. Readers both young and old will enjoy.” ~My Book Addiction
“Fraley introduces historical figures and events in a way that is totally credible, while at the same time entertaining.” ~Charles
“Indeed, the self-contained historical storyline is a remarkably effective mix of bittersweet romance and murder mystery—one that also examines the dynamics of politics and power as well as cultural conflicts between pagans and Christians, Anglo-Saxons and Britons, and landowners and workers. It does it all via the personal perspectives of a family of intriguing, earnest characters.” ~Kirkus Review
Photo https://pixabay.com/illustrations/cosmos-universe-exoplanet-planet-7711067/
The post Audible Historical Sci-Fi Books appeared first on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
March 17, 2023
Family Memories
For the last few weeks, I have been reflecting on my family memories—reading my sister’s memoirs, alternating with my mom’s memoirs. It amazes me how two people, who lived the same events, can retell their stories from such vastly different perspectives. Both views cannot be completely accurate, yet they both have insights the other can’t imagine. As the youngest child, I didn’t experience the challenges my older brothers’ and sister faced, though I inherited a fractured family with emotionally wounded parents and siblings in an unforgiving climate. Both my parents and two brothers have passed on now, and my last three siblings want someone to understand their stories. To understand them. They are not alone.
In the larger world setting, I serve as the secretary/treasurer of our town’s cemetery, and with each grave dug, it becomes very evident that a final boundary does exist. So many issues fall to the wayside at the graveside. We, as family and community, are our own worst enemies when we hang on to the poisons of anger, blame, and if-only.
As I read my poetry for the day, Blake’s “Song by An Old Shepherd” spoke to a truth that resonated deep within my soul.
Whilst Virtue is our walking-staff
And Truth a lantern to our path,
We can abide life’s pelting storm
That makes our limbs quake, if our hearts be warm.
I found it rather ironic that my bookmark depicted a picture from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland with the words: “We’re All Mad Here.”
In a world where spring buds peek out despite the frosty morning temps, violence and depression have risen to all-new heights, addictive drugs have become the panacea that kills rather than cures, and suicide, as a last resort, is chosen at younger and younger ages, I have to ask, what are we doing to ourselves?
Perhaps, I have been the lucky one. Drugs and alcohol addiction, blame, and hate did not serve my family well. So, I chose another path. It lies somewhere between the acceptance of Alice’s Wonderland assessment and Blake’s plaintive plea.
There is great evil in the world, as headline news and any classical story will attest. Yet inside the depth of each human heart, there remain daily opportunities—to love or hate. To forgive absolutely or nurse the riotous fury of a wounded spirit.
Reason begs our hearts to protect us—and our children—to see the faults of our mad world clearly. Our imagined socially engineered solutions inevitably fail, and tireless evil rises once again. Sadly, we end up writing memoirs that recount the evils done to us and precious little else.
Though I may not be qualified to define the “Truth” of my parents or my siblings’ experiences within the family realm, and though “Virtue” appears old-fashioned and quite out of date, I do think a warm heart goes a long way toward abiding life’s pelting storms, no matter what family memories I may carry within.
There is a reason why sarcasm, insinuation, seething anger, and hate are often described as “cold,” while love, forgiveness, and understanding warm our spirits. Dead things grow cold. Life breathes warmth into our chilled blood.
I can remember conversations with family members in which the sentiment, “I will never forgive that!” was all too clearly expressed. Memoirs can become long-winded, ironically entertaining, ways of saying the very same thing.
When my mom passed away after years of dementia, I cried. Not because I had only good memories of her, but because despite the passion of her chosen hate as well as her passionate love, I wished her well on her journey, where ever she was going. When my brother passed after an overdose, I suffered the loss of a life that I could never reach. A troubled soul who, it seemed to me, never knew happiness. When another brother passed unexpectedly of liver failure, I wanted to understand, but too many questions could not be answered, and I was left with poignant grief. When my father died, after a long life and much professional success, I had too many terrible stories and painful memories crowding my mind to celebrate his life.
So, what warms the heart at such gravesides?
Love.
Sincere and complete forgiveness breathes life into blood chilled by life’s pelting storms.
As I read the very personal family memories of those who have gone on, a conviction rises in my soul stronger than ever before: Do not wait to forgive, for love cannot live in hate, and the graveside will call us all.
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey. For books by A. K. Frailey check out her Amazon Author Page
“I loved reading Ann’s wise, hope-giving thoughts about life and love. Truly, life is the art of overcoming obstacles and becoming stronger to live a fuller life. Beautiful work!” ~Ksenia
“bring fresh inspiration for the day on life, love, and overcoming obstacles with faith” ~CBM
“The author uses the virtues and vices of Tolkien’s creations to remind us that those same virtues and vices are present in modern days.” ~Joan
Photo https://pixabay.com/photos/vintage-photographs-memories-family-6492490/
The post Family Memories appeared first on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
My Road—Family Memoirs
For the last few weeks, I have been reading family memoirs—my sister’s memoirs, alternating with my mom’s memoirs. It amazes me how two people, who lived the same events, can retell their stories from such vastly different perspectives. Both views cannot be completely accurate, yet they both have insights the other can’t imagine. As the youngest child, I didn’t experience the challenges my older brothers’ and sister faced, though I inherited a fractured family with emotionally wounded parents and siblings in an unforgiving climate. Both my parents and two brothers have passed on now, and my last three siblings want someone to understand their stories. To understand them. They are not alone.
In the larger world setting, I serve as the secretary/treasurer of our town’s cemetery, and with each grave dug, it becomes very evident that a final boundary does exist. So many issues fall to the wayside at the graveside. We, as family and community, are our own worst enemies when we hang on to the poisons of anger, blame, and if-only.
As I read my poetry for the day, Blake’s “Song by An Old Shepherd” spoke to a truth that resonated deep within my soul.
Whilst Virtue is our walking-staff
And Truth a lantern to our path,
We can abide life’s pelting storm
That makes our limbs quake, if our hearts be warm.
I found it rather ironic that my bookmark depicted a picture from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland with the words: “We’re All Mad Here.”
In a world where spring buds peek out despite the frosty morning temps, violence and depression have risen to all-new heights, addictive drugs have become the panacea that kills rather than cures, and suicide, as a last resort, is chosen at younger and younger ages, I have to ask, what are we doing to ourselves?
Perhaps, I have been the lucky one. Drugs and alcohol addiction, blame, and hate did not serve my family well. So, I chose another path. It lies somewhere between the acceptance of Alice’s Wonderland assessment and Blake’s plaintive plea.
There is great evil in the world, as headline news and any classical story will attest. Yet inside the depth of each human heart, there remain daily opportunities—to love or hate. To forgive absolutely or nurse the riotous fury of a wounded spirit.
Reason begs our hearts to protect us—and our children—to see the faults of our mad world clearly. Our imagined socially engineered solutions inevitably fail, and tireless evil rises once again. Sadly, we end up writing memoirs that recount the evils done to us and precious little else.
Though I may not be qualified to define the “Truth” of my parents or my siblings’ experiences within the family realm, and though “Virtue” appears old-fashioned and quite out of date, I do think a warm heart goes a long way toward abiding life’s pelting storms.
There is a reason why sarcasm, insinuation, seething anger, and hate are often described as “cold,” while love, forgiveness, and understanding warm our spirits. Dead things grow cold. Life breathes warmth into our chilled blood.
I can remember conversations with family members in which the sentiment, “I will never forgive that!” was all too clearly expressed. Memoirs can become long-winded, ironically entertaining, ways of saying the very same thing.
When my mom passed away after years of dementia, I cried. Not because I had only good memories of her, but because despite the passion of her chosen hate as well as her passionate love, I wished her well on her journey, where ever she was going. When my brother passed after an overdose, I suffered the loss of a life that I could never reach. A troubled soul who, it seemed to me, never knew happiness. When another brother passed unexpectedly of liver failure, I wanted to understand, but too many questions could not be answered, and I was left with poignant grief. When my father died, after a long life and much professional success, I had too many terrible stories and painful memories crowding my mind to celebrate his life.
So, what warms the heart at such gravesides?
Love.
Sincere and complete forgiveness breathes life into blood chilled by life’s pelting storms.
As I read the personal memories of those who have gone on, a conviction rises in my soul stronger than ever before: Do not wait to forgive, for love cannot live in hate, and the graveside will call us all.
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey. For books by A. K. Frailey check out her Amazon Author Page
“I loved reading Ann’s wise, hope-giving thoughts about life and love. Truly, life is the art of overcoming obstacles and becoming stronger to live a fuller life. Beautiful work!” ~Ksenia
“bring fresh inspiration for the day on life, love, and overcoming obstacles with faith” ~CBM
“The author uses the virtues and vices of Tolkien’s creations to remind us that those same virtues and vices are present in modern days.” ~Joan
Photo https://pixabay.com/photos/vintage-photographs-memories-family-6492490/
The post My Road—Family Memoirs appeared first on The Writings of A. K. Frailey.
March 10, 2023
Inspirational Stories for Writers
In fun, inspirational stories for writers, this one entitled, What an Odd Day, Bob Piper discovers the true makings of a great story…
Bob Piper strode confidently out of his two-story, white farmhouse and ambled down the walk toward the small-town post office. A warmish March day with a thin coating of clouds splashed across a light blue sky, he felt spring bursting forth at every turn. Red-purple buds swelled at the tips of trees while the brown grass was streaked with pale green shoots.
At the post office, an elderly gent grunted as he pushed the heavy metal door open, but then he stepped aside with a good-morning tip of his head.
Bob alighted on the top step, feeling as young as a schoolboy. “Hallo, Fred.”
“Hallo, Bob.” The old man’s weary expression brightened. “Nothing but bills and adverts today.”
“As always! Better than headline news, anyway.”
Relishing the opportunity to complain to a fellow suffering soul, Fred nodded emphatically. “True enough! Wouldn’t go into the city for love or money these days; you’ll be killed or worse in no time flat.”
Bob offered his hearty approval of Fred’s sentiment with a smart salute, then darted into the dim interior, a smile wavering on his lips. They have no idea, and thank God for that!
Dragging two P. O. Box keys from a deep pocket, Bob chuckled at what would happen if his secret got out. After all, he had lived in this backwoods rural town as quiet, unobtrusive Bob Piper all his life. Little did anyone guess that he had a secret identity as M. D. Bull, author of the famous—some said infamous—MadBull Adventure series.
His characters and heart-stopping plots galloped over thousands of pages, taking multitudes of hard-working laborers, harassed mothers, and invisible teens out of their boring lives into sensational excitement. It was interesting work, did no harm, and, in Bob’s opinion, made the world a far more acceptable place. What could be better than inspirational stories by enthusiastic writers?
Bob’s first box, number 136, held no secrets: a sign-up for an annual fundraiser, the bill for driveway rock spread this winter, and an advert for land for sale.
On the other hand, box number 137 was always a surprise: two subscriptions to exotic travel magazines (used for his story locations), a personalized birthday card from his publisher (kind man), a small “Grammar is our Friend” booklet from his editor (annoying biddy but she did know how to snip a dangling participle) and a set of new author photos that he would need to peruse and approve. He grimaced. He didn’t want anyone to actually recognize him, so he always wore an outlandish costume (wig and all) that usually made him appear more insane than exotic.
A voice rose behind him. Bob whirled around in surprise.
A long-legged woman with curly blond hair and ice-blue eyes cooed like a dove. “Can you help me, please? I seem to have dropped my ring when I took off my gloves. My hubby will absolutely kill me if I lose it.”
Her imploring gaze and wavering red lips reminded Bob of someone, but in the momentary emergency, he didn’t have time to think it out.
He bent low and searched every corner of the small foyer, secretly convinced that this whole situation was some kind of bizarre ploy when a man’s booming voice snapped his spine back into proper position.
A hulking, towering mass of muscle and simmering anger bellowed at the woman who now cowered in the corner. “Whatcha doing, Jan? I’ve been waiting for an age, and I’ve got stuff to do!”
Good Heavens! Bob would know that voice anywhere, that tone and stance. Why, here, right in front of him, stood one of his main antagonists: Jerry Jenkins, a bully if ever there was one!
Bob swiveled his gaze at the woman, who now looked remarkably similar to Janet Jenkins, the conniving—though of oft-abused—soulmate of Jerry, but also a double agent for a secret religious order in Far East Asia.
A near hysterical giggle and Janet plucked a ring from her coat pocket and held it up like a school prize. “Here it is!” Tossing an apologetic smile Bob’s way, she slipped the ring on her finger and sashayed out the door.
After one last glare at the room, sweeping past Bob as if he was invisible, Jerry followed his beloved.
Did I just meet two of my own creations? It’s absolutely impossible!
Bob needed to sit down. The cream-corn-colored walls and the bank of gray metal boxes offered not a particle of physical comfort. With a shudder, Bob wadded his mail into a roll and tucked it under his arm. The Corner Café was open for business, and they served cold sandwiches and piping hot coffee. A good lunch and perhaps a brownie would set his system to rights. Surely.
Kate Something-or-other owned the café and often served the morning crowd to get her daily allotment of gossip and exchange a few zingers with the old timers so their hearts would keep beating. She ambled up to Bob, a pad and pen in hand, though she hardly ever wrote anything down. “Morning, Bob. Usual?”
His head in a muddle, Bob tried to think what Kate might consider his usual. He opted for the direct approach. “Just a BLT with everything and a coffee, if you please.”
“Well, it’s my job to please you, but I’ve never known you to have a BLT before.” She threw up her hands as if the world could go to hell in a handbasket if it so chose.
Rubbing his temple, Bob leaned back and closed his eyes. What an odd day. He really must get back to chapter sixty-three of MadBull’s newest conflict, but he hadn’t figured out how he was going to get the whole extravaganza into the Himalayas, much less out of them, yet. A quandary that MadBull usually accomplished with finesse and charismatic charm. But after today, Bob didn’t feel quite so confident.
A bustle of men stomped into the café, hallooing to surrounding customers and calling for service.
Kate yelled across the room for them to “shush their mouths and behave like their mamas had taught them,” sending everyone into fits of laughter.
The tallest newcomer of the group, a sharp-nosed, thin guy with protruding eyes, waltzed over to the liquor counter and demanded a beer. “I want something strong and savory, woman. Life is too hard and death too easy.” A foreboding sense of Déjà vu rippled over Bob. He squinted in the dim light. Do I know that guy?
With a snort, Kate slapped a bottle on the counter and ordered a couple of teens to get the new orders.
Once his food appeared, Bob ignored his earlier unease and concentrated on devouring every delicious bite of his sandwich.
Until a collective gasp made him stop in mid-chew.
The tall guy, who suddenly looked eerily like Moody Lancaster, one of his favorite sidekicks in his MadBull series, now lay sprawled across the floor.
A crowd formed and soon everyone had phones plastered to their faces trying to outrace each other to the emergency number. Only one of the serving teens, a sweet apple-pie-faced girl, was attempting CPR. Gosh, she’s a dead ringer for California Doll. The precocious kid in his last book who made a splash on the page, being the only person to actually save MadBull’s life by her incredible ability to sew up hemorrhaging wounds while underwater.
Bob stood up, not sure what he should be doing, but well aware that he wouldn’t be able to finish his sandwich. The coffee swirled in a dangerous maelstrom in his stomach. No brownie today.
It didn’t take long to pay his bill; Kate would have taken Japanese yen at that point, so Bob slipped out the door as noiselessly as a cat wearing cotton booties.
By the time he made it home, his stomach had settled to a mild ache, and his head had cleared in the bracing wind. With no desire to face his author photos or peruse the Grammar booklet, he ambled to his study. Taking out his birthday card, he tacked it to the bulletin board on the wall above his desk which mapped out MadBull’s adventurous history. No point in going to Nepal twice. The idiotic bright balloon faces on the card made him wonder if his publisher thought he was turning twelve. No matter.
He plunked down at his writing desk, turned on his computer, and faced the unfinished chapter of his book. Where was Mad Bull going again? Oh, yeah, the Himalayas.
The apple-pie-faced teen rose before his eyes. What was her name? That wisp of a girl actually tried to save the tall guy’s life! How astonishing. The crowd of men…where did they all come from? Was life too hard and death too easy? How about the blond woman? Perhaps she was just Jan, after all. Maybe she had dropped her ring in her pocket by accident and had nothing to do with secret religious orders in Asia. Her hubby might honestly have had stuff to do…
Funny, Bob swiveled his chair and peered out the window. I hope the tall guy is doing okay. Kate probably had to take a rest after such a scare.
Suddenly the Himalayas didn’t seem very interesting. Bob sat up and poised his fingers over the keyboard. Perhaps Mad Bull needs to stop in a rural mid-west town. After all, the story isn’t the adventure, the characters are.
A. K. Frailey is the author of 17 books, a teacher for 35 years, and a homeschooling mother of 8.Make the most of life’s journey. For books by A. K. Frailey check out her Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/author/akfraileyFor other fun and inspirational stories for writers and all kinds of readers, check out…
BUY HERE: It Might Have Been and Other Stories
“As usual, Ann Frailey doesn’t disappoint. Her heartfelt, down-to-earth stories are filled with real-life experiences and emotions that you can almost feel like you are experiencing them as well as you read. She’s one of the best authors I’ve ever read.” ~Ron Hull
BUY HERE: One Day at a Time And Other Stories
“This book of short stories evokes smiles, tears, and reflection. The author has a unique writing style that captures your attention from the first sentence.” Discovery ~Gale Kaufman
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