Pamela Q. Fernandes's Blog, page 39

Rockaway Quietus: 1

Since I've spent a significant time in the Far Rockaways, I couldn't help but be inspired. So in order to reward my readers, I'm offering Rockaway Quietus free on Wattpad.

Its an ongoing mystery, where I will post two chapters every week (Monday), so that you can enjoy something of my latest. The book cover is an actual view of the ocean from a home on the islet.

Read and let me know what you think, I don't mind making it an interactive mystery. I hope you have as much fun reading it, as I did writing it. Also tell me what you think of my book cover.

Do check it out. Happy Reading!


Song on my playlist: Reta Ceol's Jerusalem of Gold (Haunting but sad)

Review: The Embers by Hyatt Bass

Everyone knows that I had 'The Embers' -by Hyatt Bass on my to-read shelf for seven years. I hoped to get it as a Christmas gift, but nobody thought books are great gifts, so I ended up buying this myself. I feel the blurb was misleading. From the jacket description I thought this would be about Thomas's suicide. I was wrong on many counts. His death was not self inflicted.

What was the aim of the book? I think the family is on some sort of quest for redemption. They're all guilt of something. The women in this book Laura and Emily, I hated them with a vengeance. there's not one nice thing about them that I'd say makes them human. If I read this, it was for Joe. His experience, his loss and his hurt, just make it all worthwhile.

When I started reading this, the points of view kept changing, the head hopping was jarring for me so I put the book down. Once I crossed page seventy and Joe's POV came in I settled in and read this on my flight from NY to Paris.

The Ascher family has broken up and moved on from the death of their only son Thomas. As they reunite for Emily's wedding, their pasts come to the fore, and the role each played as Thomas passed away. The men in the family know their women are eccentric, too opinionated, too stubborn, too self centered and still loved. Yet as the author brings each characters inner thoughts forward, it makes you think how important communication is in a marriage, in a family and in relationships.

The best part is Ms Bass vocalizing the inner turmoil of her protagonists, their inner conflicts and for that reason alone I think its a wonderful read. Hope you can too!

Movie I recommend: Concussion (Fantastic movie, with research evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy)
Song on my playlist: SS301Pain,

Review: Killing Jesus: A history

Killing Jesus: By Bill O'Reilly and Martin Duggard

Wow! When I first started reading this, it was like a documentary of the assassination of Kennedy. True enough the authors have written a book  on the subject. This is however a very accurate chronology of events. It has plenty of facts written down, without being preachy.
So you can make of it what you will but its fact.
The book is what it says, history being recounted, yet, in a very vivid style. You can almost touch the soft lime rock, hear the crowds of Jerusalem and feel the fabric of life. The introduction sets the tone of the book, which I think gives it so much depth. That of the Roman ethos at the time and  the political situation that largely influenced all the decisions of the key players in the story.
The benevolence of Caesar, his grief for Pompey, are subtle details of the king that paint a different picture of him, one that you wouldn't read in a history text.
Following that is the admission of one of the the very own in the Sanhedrin, that if Jesus is an ordinary man his movement will die out, but if He's from God, they might have been fighting God himself. Its considerable food for thought, given that the Man did garner over a billions followers. Wonder what they think of it now?

The book also highlights the humanity of Jesus, so often we think of some divine form. But the book tells how he used the bark to brush teeth, or used the lavatory, a simple hole in the mud. It just makes me think of Him, as so much like us. Humanized.

I didn't entirely agree with the sketch of Herod Antipas as explained  in the book. There are texts that say that he revered John the Baptist. That he felt convicted by his teachings and knew he was a holy man. Yes, he did kill to save face, but I think he did it with great sorrow, because he did keep John alive in his prisons for as long as he could, when he just as easily could have killed him, much earlier if he wanted to. Herodias, wanted to force his hand in the situation, she wanted him out of the way.

Judas Iscariot, to me believed he was called to reveal the kingship of Jesus. I think his is the saddest lot. How I wish he had taken the road of Peter and done something great. After all he did believe like Herodias, that he better force Jesus to reveal his kingship now, unknown to him that it would result in his death. The description of Judas here is a little different from the commentaries, probably more negative, but his circumstances are similar in description.

And why would anyone believe that Jesus would be killed? The rules were pretty clear, no trial after dark, wait twenty hours before sentencing, man to be provided a chance to prove his innocence. But nothing about his trial was fair. The book lays out these rules in clear details. It explains the trial laws, the timings, the decisions and how the powers that be manipulated the situation to suit themselves much like it happens today.

I often wondered where were all those people who  welcomed Him on the donkey on Palm Sunday. How did they disappear when their king is crucified. The book explains that all of those people were busy getting ready for the Passover, last minute elaborate cleaning to purify their homes. Moreover this was a wealthy part of the city, none of Jesus followers (ordinary middle class and poor) would be allowed here. Its these tiny details which raise this book.

The most striking thing about reading this is the realization - how can humanity be so brutal? Brother killing brother? How did these esteemed high priests live with themselves knowing they killed an innocent man, even Annas was impressed with Jesus and his wit. He knew of his miracles. Did he realize he was pitting himself against divinity?
That said Annas and Pilate, all gave into political pressure, the lust of their power had blinded them. They'do anything to hold on to that seat of power.

Yet if anything this book shows that history repeats itself, today's times are no different, bloodshed continues, we turn away as wars are fought, we've become immune to the murder of innocent people.

 Anybody in political office should read this. Its a stellar read which has science to back up the hematidrosis, the blood and water being of pericardial and pleural fluid, the comet the Magi followed. Its all there. Jesus was a real man. His times and ours haven't changed much. His message then is still applicable now. This book proves it.

Song on my playlist: Roxette- It must have been love-  listen to it here
Drama I'm watching: Vera (love this)

'Nuff said

esmartass.com


This is kinda true for most of the world leaders. I mean honestly what are they really doing?
A new spring is here, though its still cold. Cherry blossoms everywhere, so pretty. Happy spring!


Song on my playlist:  Flashlight Jessie J- check out this duet version here.
Em tua Presenca(This is an Adoration hymn in Portuguese, I'm learning lots of it since my parish is largely Portuguesa, I heard this and fell in love with it. The best version is embedded here. Check it out. ) This is a video of the RIO World Youth Day. Don't forget this year Pope Francis and the Catholic Youth go to Krakow, Poland.

Review of The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

The Art of Racing in the Rain*****This is fantastic. I would give it ten stars out of five. This should be recommended reading for all Formula One drivers, given their current bickering on the circuit. I loved this book. 
One because I loved Senna. I believe he's one of the greatest drivers ever. And I agree with the author about Senna, in life and in death, he was truly enigmatic. It never rained on him.Written from a dog Enzo's point of view, this book is hilarious, a little sad and had me laughing out loud. Its vivid and beautiful. Full of alliterations and irony. I loved how the book closes as well. All in all, its a fantastic read. Recommended for all. I can't stop gushing about it. 
As Denny struggled with a messy custody battle, his dog watched him finish the race. If you're a formula one lover, you will love this book, if you love dogs, you will love this book and if you love underdogs, you will love this book.
If you must know details, this book follows Enzo, a dog plucked from his farmland home in Spangle to the urbane Seattle where Denny, a racing enthusiast and driver lives. He grows up watching Denny's family grow, his marriage and his child. Enzo believing, 'he practically birthed her.' 
Everything a dog experiences and probably thinks is in this book as he explains, how he will become a man in his next life. And all that he's doing now is preparation. When Denny loses custody of his daughter, Enzo influences his decision, stays by him and keeps him on the straight and narrow.
Denny does win the race at the close of Enzo's life, and life comes full circle at the end. My favorite line in the book is the analogy of a good driver always focusing on the next turn. I hope I've said enough to make you want to read this. Its fabulous.

Perfume Reviews for early 2016

So its been quite some time since I've reviewed fragrances. First, because I've stuck to my signature and didn't want to stray and second, because I'm, well a coward. I don't want to splash cash on something that I'm not sure about.

These three have been my newest buys and of course, I've been using for over a month or so.

Dolce and Gabbana THE ONE

I loved this perfume. Its just the right scent for date night or special occasions. Its well balanced, more oriental with top notes of madarin and bergamot. I loved this when I first tried a tester. It lasts four hours and really is fantastic. My only recommendation when you buy this, is that when you order -this is one of the MOST faked perfumes out there.
When I bought the perfume from another vendor, it was watered down, and smelt nothing like the original. Plus the perfume wouldn't last more than an hour. If you're paying 50$ a pop you would not be mad, you'd be enraged. So if you do order this from anywhere, no matter how much you trust the dealer, sniff, and if isn't strong or long lasting, contact the seller for a refund. The bottle as you see is simple to fake and you wouldn't know the difference.  Also if you're under 25 please girls, don't wear this. Its a mature, classy scent that can be labelled a signature.

Calvin Klein's One
I just realized both these perfumes are 'one.' Coincidences, but ah, you say, there's no such thing. Shall we call it Synchronicity? This is a unisex perfume. Men can use it as a cologne and it does come with a sprayer for women as well.
I love this. Its expensive at 58$, but its clean and great when you'e travelling. Its small size makes it easy to carry on flight, Plus its fresh, has that wake me up feel, like the Cinthol girl in the waterfall.

For those who like aquatic scents, given the limited choice, this could be a alternative. Top notes pineapple, mandarin orange, lemon and bergamot, mind you, it doesn't make you smell like a fruit salad. And it lasts about four hours on me. Great for everyday use, I would say for any one under 40.

And finally S.T Dupont's Passenger Cruise EDT for women

This is exactly what it says it is. Smells like the ocean, very Mediterranean, but clean and simple. Doesn't last very long though. I think in the summer the dry down is better, so don't use it for winter. Its ideal for spring or summer. Top notes include pomegranate, lemon and grapefruit.
Its covered in this white flannel material, so you don't know how much is used up. I would say this is for middle aged women, but if you're a surfer, or beach goer, it would suit you fine. This one is the cheapest of the three.

As of now that's it.
Move I recommend: Fireproof (this should be recommended as part of syllabus for Pre-Cana)
Song I recommend: If by Elsa Kopf
Book I recommend: The Art of Racing in the Rain-Garth-Stein, will post a review soon on Goodreads as well as here.

 Tata everyone, Happy Lenting

Writers: Helpful Hashtags on Twitter - Crime Writer Sue Coletta

Writers: Helpful Hashtags on Twitter - Crime Writer Sue Coletta

Best of Jan 2016!

Source: sassyecards.com
I am doing the best of the month series, since folks can't or won't backtrack to posts for recommendations.
So I'm going to do this once a month or more if time permits.
My main reviews are always going to be books, because other than sleeping, eating and working I practically spend all my time reading and writing.
So top three books for January on my reading list are:
1.Bridget Jones's Diary - Helen Fielding
2.Magnificat-Year of Mercy Companion book
3.False Impressions- Jeffrey Archer
Not going to say much about the books, my reviews are posted in my Goodreads sidebar.

Top 3 songs for Jan
1. Fasateen- Mashrou Leila
I loved the Lebanese band with its strong violin. The song's lyrics are really poignant if you look at Lebanon and its culture or love in general.
2. Demons by Sam and Max
I heard demons for the first time when Mirai Nagasu performed a stellar short program. Knowing her career and what she's been through, this song was perfect for her. And you can tell she loves this song.
3. Oceans- Where feet may fail
Oceans by Hillsong is a moving song, that for worship would be really awesome.
Its chorus 'spirit lead me, where my trust is without borders, let me walk upon the water, wherever you will call me,' echoes through your soul and it can be very uplifting if you're going through a hard time.

Top Dramas/Series for Jan




1.Last Man Standing
If you love the sarcasm and wit or vote conservative, you will love this.
2. Misaeng
I have to say I re-watch this from time to time, its such a riveting drama. Its basically about office politics and alot of us who deal with it everyday can relate.
3. Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries
I recently started watching this whodunit series and its great. Its got a fantastic female detective lead and she can even shoot her pistol without missing. Love it.

One life!

Songs on my playlist: Fasateen by Mashrou Leila
                                    Hurry up and save me by Tiffany Giardiana
Drama I recommend: Cabin Pressure (this is an audio drama on BBC radio)
Book I recommend: Story of a Soul by John Clarke, OCD

Life is precious

I've been on a litany run of complaints last week, wallowing in my own world of selfish wants. Then I heard of a friend who passed away in a bike accident on Jan 1. For some reason, he lay bleeding an hour on the street before help could arrive. And while the resurrection of Jesus gives me hope, it makes me realize that life is just a few moments, you don't know when its going to be your last and all the best laid plans are in vain.
Song on My playlist: Joshua Radin- Old friendIts a nice song about a friend whose passed. For you Jan, RIP