Requiem for the Ripper by Brian L. Porter

Requiem for the Ripper

Author: Brian Porter

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Jack Reid is a mass murderer and I am proud to say a descendent of Jack the Ripper. I am so proud of him that he followed in my footsteps and kept the family name in the news. Robert Cavendish received the journal of my life and my conquests in Brian Porter’s Study In Red. In Legacy of A Ripper, Jack continued with his own pattern of murders. But, we are not finished yet; the worst is yet to come. Do you think I am really dead? Find out as the saga continues in this final book of Porter’s trilogy about my life. Celebrate my life for the repose of my departed soul. I was truly great in my day. Let the murders begin and my legacy live on: Requiem for the Ripper: Read it in fear!

William Forbes is scared. He has been receiving messages from someone he thinks is the real Jack the Ripper. How can that be? He’s dead! Jack Reid committed the same murders and is supposedly dead too. Is he? Dr. David Hemswell wants to live in seclusion on the Island he just purchased. William Forbes contacts him and his life will never be the same.

“ As William relates to you the saga of my tormented life, just know that my spirit will never die as long as there is a descendant of the Cavendish Family to read my journal or even be in possession of one simple page. As William tells the good doctor about my outstanding work, murders, magnificent mutilations of my victims, I smile proudly at his recollections and am elated by his fears. Anyone who encounters the journal, reads it or even touches it will become ensconced in his meaning, its truths, horrors and begin seeing visions of the murders and reliving them as if they were present as they happened. Isn’t that great! Wouldn’t you want to feel, endure, experience and see my handiwork first hand?

Next comes Jack Reid. William Forbes made the mistake of visiting him in Ravenswood and hearing his story. As Jack unravels the truths behind his murders, he relates to his former solicitor that he is threatened by the living soul of the infamous Jack the Ripper. We learn more about young Jack, why he became so deranged and how he managed to be another clone of mine along with one other. But, the story has much more to tell and I will let someone else tell the rest. You see, I will never die, and as William relates the next part to Dr. Hemswell his life as he knows it will forever be destroyed just like Jack’s and many others.”

Paranormal investigator Kate Goddard is called up by Hemswell to free Forbes of the demons, spirits and whatever has attacked and assaulted his mind.  As the investigation moves to another level the three inhabitants of the island feel they might not be the only ones living there. The worst has yet to be revealed. The legacy dear reader is the journal itself and whatever it holds within its pages will haunt the reader and destroy their mind, body and more.

Imagine a family curse passed on through the pages of a journal that emanates evil just by coming in contact with it. Jack Reid, a serial murderer, or victim of a curse that was passed on to him was a recipient of the journal by Jack the Ripper himself. As William Forbes tells his story to both Kate and David he relates how Jack Reid experienced hallucinations, dreams, apparitions, and relived the screams, torments and murders of his victims as he tried to escape what he was living. Descendant of the real Jack the Ripper, Reid, his uncle Mark Cavendish killed and mutilated women as Jack Reid claimed to be the manifestation of JACK THE RIPPER HIMSELF!

Author Brian Porter takes the reader on several journeys in this novel filled with fear, intrigue, twists, deceit and more. As the reader relives the murders along with Jack the Ripper and learns about his true heritage and ultimate demise, we take a journey back to when it all began and learn just how this family curse spread to many generations. The next is the journey of Jack Reid and how he came to be the next victim of this nightmare. Finally, William Forbes whose story you won’t believe, whose torments we still have not fully unraveled and whose nightmares still persist. What does Brian Porter have in store for the reader; this reviewer will not give it away? But, William Forbes has much more to share as the story continues.

Can someone enter the body and spirit of a living person and control their mind and actions causing them to become a serial killer? DNA: Can a gene in your family lead you to become a mass murderer? William Forbes hears voices and feels controlled by the embodiment of Jack The Ripper. Jack the Ripper, Jack Reid and possibly many before and after them heard these same voices that encouraged them to continue this blood letting and annihilation of humans they felt unfit for this world. Prostitution was a way many women survived when their husbands did not have work or they died. Jack the Ripper felt compelled to rid the world of these worthless women along with Jack Reid. Robert Cavendish passed his journal to Jack Reid. Victims or pawns: Murderers of just bad genes? You decide as the story continues and Kate and David try to unravel more of this mystery. Is William a descendant of the Ripper? Does the journal really possess this evil power to create mass murderers by reading and touching it? Does this have anything to do with DNA and what is that tune that both Forbes and David heard? Wait until you read the rest and learn for yourself who is next? Is Jack the Ripper really alive in these people or is something or someone else at play?

Author Brian Porter takes many paths to find the answers with intricate and never ending mazes that will lead in many directions that you might never find your way out. The voice of the Ripper is heard through Forbes and his journal. The voice of Jack Reid will let you hear his torments and his final demise. The voices of those killed and mutilated will haunt your dreams and nightmares forever.

As Kate enlists the help of another friend she uncovers the truth about Forbes, the entity and the evil surrounding not only him but her and David too. Auras that surround Forbes, mists that emanate from his mouth causing irrational and demonic behaviors, what happens will scare the reader, frighten you down to the core and make you want the author to write still another sequel and not end it here. Who lives, who dies, what does fate have in store for Kate, Forbes and David? Just what links them all to the Ripper? Can a journal be evil? Can a spirit enter the body of a man or be used as a family’s evil legacy and passed on from one member to the next? Only author Brian Porter can answer that and this reviewer? We are not telling. Well: Jack knows too and you definitely don’t want to ask him? Will he return? What makes you sure he’s gone? Journals: Keep them locked in a safe or in plastic if they are not your own: Who knows what lurks inside of them? Right JACK!

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Advertisement

BlogTalkRadio Share Show Widget

The Trophy Bride’s Tale

The Trophy Bride’s Tale

Author: Cyrillia Barr

ISBN:

Publisher: Bascom Publishing

Abuse of any kind is wrong. Author Cyrillia Barr brings to light an issue that is not indicative of just the 16^th century but the 21^st as well. Too often men feel that they can hit, beat, berate and abuse a spouse without just cause making the person feel inferior or dejected. In “The Trophy Bride’s Tale,” Prudenza Beltramonto finds herself in a marital nightmare and her final actions might cost Prudenza her life.

Imagine being the bargaining chip in a business deal. Alfonso Beltramonto creates dyes for fabrics that are quite unique. But, without alum, the element needed to create these dyes his business would fail. His funds are depleted and the quality of the dyes and the alum received are inferior. In walks Matteo Cecchi and things are about to change. Forming an unholy alliance with smugglers he enlists the help of these men in order to gain the needed alum and hopefully win an even bigger prize: Prudenza. Formulating a diabolical plan in his mind he convinces her father that he will attain the necessary alum and the payment needed would be sufficient if he gives him his daughter’s hand in marriage. The money tucked away for her dowry to provide her with a safe haven for the future would be used to pay for the alum and she would be the final prize. Prudenza is truly a victim of poor circumstances and winds up in a no win situation.

Matteo Cecchi is a devious and clever man who uses his father’s name and friend with Alfonso, Prudenza’s father to bait him and convince him that he truly wants to marry her for the right reasons even though it is apparent that all he wants is the sum necessary to pay the brigands and his new band of smugglers the money needed for the alum so that he might profit. This will prove to be disastrous for Prudenza who is the pawn that is sacrificed in this plot. Pawns play a specific part in a game of chess and poor Prudenza in trying to please her parents and not disappoint them is naïve enough to think her choice will be right and is sacrificed in more ways than one as the reader will find out as the plot unfolds.

As Prudenza learns the terms of the marriage contract and she weds Matteo, she begins to sense a change in his real demeanor as she overhears him dealing with the men on the ship when traveling to Florence. But, with her companion Aunt Teresina, a wise woman, they journey into a whole new world the end is one you will not want to miss reading.

Trophies are given to the victor of a contest you when one wins a specific prize. Matteo Cecchi thought of Prudenza as nothing more than just that: a prize he won and a gift given to him as a result of a pact or contract made with her father in order to save his business. She was the price he paid for success. As the she learns more about him and observes his behavior Prudenza sees a different side of Matteo and realizes he is anything but kind. Becoming moody, jealous, belligerent and abusive to those that defy him, owe him a debt or get more attention than him his life takes on a new turn and hers becomes walking nightmare. He is truly what one might call in this day and age Bi Polar and has behavior changes that are totally erratic.

Throughout the novel the author reveals many aspects of Matteo’s personality that trigger his violence, bringing his insecurities to light and his malicious and malcontent behavior toward his workers, his wife and household. As Prudenza becomes more ensconced in her new family’s daily life and takes on the role of mistress of the house, she learns that her new mother-in-law will dominate much of what she would like to control and must acquiesce to her wishes including what she might think is best for her new born son. Living under this roof proves difficult and even more frightening as time goes on even though she has the loyalty of Gina her maid and friend, and learns about the loss of her best friend Coletta.

Matteo reveals his violent and abuse side as the truth about his pact with Alfonso is revealed to his father and once again he falters in his eyes behind that of his brother. Jealousies resurface, retaliations are made and Matteo’s true colors come forth as Prudenza fears for her life and that of her children.

The destruction of her lute, which brought her comfort and solace, the embarrassment in public and the abuse her children endured as his temper flared for no reason or he felt ignored and isolated added to the many reasons Prudenza cherished the friendship of Gina, the comfort of her mother’s understanding and a mother-in-law who tried to handle her son, but could not. With the death of Zenobi, her father-in-law Matteo’s lack of ability to handle the business and deal with his daily life came into play as his mood swings and personality deteriorated the detriment of everyone.

Prudenza withstood too much in her young life. With her faithful maid, Gina at her side guiding and helping her, she came to a forgone conclusion which would change the course of her life and her loved ones forever. How far would a mother go to protect the lives of her children and even more the rest of her family? Guided by her old friend Father Tommaso and the loyalty of so many others, her fate is sealed.

Read the events that took place prior to Matteo’s demise. Decide for yourself whether Prudenza’s actions were justified or not. Read the Lament written by her before she was taken to justice. Hear her words and read her thoughts in her own hand as she awaits the verdict of the judges.

Author Cyrillia Barr brings to light an issue that is quite prevalent in the 21^st century, abuse. An arranged marriage by her father that went wrong. A man who hated the world for his shortcomings and could not take pleasure in the joys of others unless the center of attention and worked his way out of the hearts of everyone. Lacking the respect he thought he deserved, debasing his wife and children in public, Matteo Cecchi got what he deserved. You decide from the facts the author relates whether Prudenza’s fate was justified or not. A story of betrayal, loyalty, trust, friendship, hate, deceit and courage, this is one tale whose longevity will prevail. Characters that are clearly defined and whose roles are quite specific and clear- cut to the reader. Places and events whose descriptions are so vivid you can picture them in your mind and a woman whose emotional torment you feel every step of the way. Read the trial. Hear the words of the witnesses and feel the emotional pain that one young woman endured at the hands of a man who could not deal with success, life, family and accept love from those who truly cared for him.

The longevity of this tale will live on for quite some time. Abuse is wrong no matter what. To what lengths would you go to protect yourself and your loved ones from what Prudenza endured? Who was the real villian: Prudenza, Matteo or society not allowing a woman to stand up for herself against a man like Matteo?

A definite must read and a five star book.

Matteo de Cecchi: Victim or Victor: You Decide!

Fran Lewis: reviewer

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=14444&uid=155091741301

http://premierewriters.ning.com/forum/topics/the-trophy-wifes-tale-reviewed

http://coldcoffee.ning.com/forum/topics/the-trophy-wifes-tale-reviewed

http://thestorytellerscafe.spruz.com/blog.htm?a=&nid=DB29DDEC-49D1-4FF2-85D6-A3657CBCD399

The Trophy Bride’s Tale

Author: Cyrillia Barr

ISBN:

Publisher: Bascom Publishing

Abuse of any kind is wrong. Author Cyrillia Barr brings to light an issue that is not indicative of just the 16^th century but the 21^st as well. Too often men feel that they can hit, beat, berate and abuse a spouse without just cause making the person feel inferior or dejected. In “The Trophy Bride’s Tale,” Prudenza Beltramonto finds herself in a marital nightmare and her final actions might cost Prudenza her life.

Imagine being the bargaining chip in a business deal. Alfonso Beltramonto creates dyes for fabrics that are quite unique. But, without alum, the element needed to create these dyes his business would fail. His funds are depleted and the quality of the dyes and the alum received are inferior. In walks Matteo Cecchi and things are about to change. Forming an unholy alliance with smugglers he enlists the help of these men in order to gain the needed alum and hopefully win an even bigger prize: Prudenza. Formulating a diabolical plan in his mind he convinces her father that he will attain the necessary alum and the payment needed would be sufficient if he gives him his daughter’s hand in marriage. The money tucked away for her dowry to provide her with a safe haven for the future would be used to pay for the alum and she would be the final prize. Prudenza is truly a victim of poor circumstances and winds up in a no win situation.

Matteo Cecchi is a devious and clever man who uses his father’s name and friend with Alfonso, Prudenza’s father to bait him and convince him that he truly wants to marry her for the right reasons even though it is apparent that all he wants is the sum necessary to pay the brigands and his new band of smugglers the money needed for the alum so that he might profit. This will prove to be disastrous for Prudenza who is the pawn that is sacrificed in this plot. Pawns play a specific part in a game of chess and poor Prudenza in trying to please her parents and not disappoint them is naïve enough to think her choice will be right and is sacrificed in more ways than one as the reader will find out as the plot unfolds.

As Prudenza learns the terms of the marriage contract and she weds Matteo, she begins to sense a change in his real demeanor as she overhears him dealing with the men on the ship when traveling to Florence. But, with her companion Aunt Teresina, a wise woman, they journey into a whole new world the end is one you will not want to miss reading.

Trophies are given to the victor of a contest you when one wins a specific prize. Matteo Cecchi thought of Prudenza as nothing more than just that: a prize he won and a gift given to him as a result of a pact or contract made with her father in order to save his business. She was the price he paid for success. As the she learns more about him and observes his behavior Prudenza sees a different side of Matteo and realizes he is anything but kind. Becoming moody, jealous, belligerent and abusive to those that defy him, owe him a debt or get more attention than him his life takes on a new turn and hers becomes walking nightmare. He is truly what one might call in this day and age Bi Polar and has behavior changes that are totally erratic.

Throughout the novel the author reveals many aspects of Matteo’s personality that trigger his violence, bringing his insecurities to light and his malicious and malcontent behavior toward his workers, his wife and household. As Prudenza becomes more ensconced in her new family’s daily life and takes on the role of mistress of the house, she learns that her new mother-in-law will dominate much of what she would like to control and must acquiesce to her wishes including what she might think is best for her new born son. Living under this roof proves difficult and even more frightening as time goes on even though she has the loyalty of Gina her maid and friend, and learns about the loss of her best friend Coletta.

Matteo reveals his violent and abuse side as the truth about his pact with Alfonso is revealed to his father and once again he falters in his eyes behind that of his brother. Jealousies resurface, retaliations are made and Matteo’s true colors come forth as Prudenza fears for her life and that of her children.

The destruction of her lute, which brought her comfort and solace, the embarrassment in public and the abuse her children endured as his temper flared for no reason or he felt ignored and isolated added to the many reasons Prudenza cherished the friendship of Gina, the comfort of her mother’s understanding and a mother-in-law who tried to handle her son, but could not. With the death of Zenobi, her father-in-law Matteo’s lack of ability to handle the business and deal with his daily life came into play as his mood swings and personality deteriorated the detriment of everyone.

Prudenza withstood too much in her young life. With her faithful maid, Gina at her side guiding and helping her, she came to a forgone conclusion which would change the course of her life and her loved ones forever. How far would a mother go to protect the lives of her children and even more the rest of her family? Guided by her old friend Father Tommaso and the loyalty of so many others, her fate is sealed.

Read the events that took place prior to Matteo’s demise. Decide for yourself whether Prudenza’s actions were justified or not. Read the Lament written by her before she was taken to justice. Hear her words and read her thoughts in her own hand as she awaits the verdict of the judges.

Author Cyrillia Barr brings to light an issue that is quite prevalent in the 21^st century, abuse. An arranged marriage by her father that went wrong. A man who hated the world for his shortcomings and could not take pleasure in the joys of others unless the center of attention and worked his way out of the hearts of everyone. Lacking the respect he thought he deserved, debasing his wife and children in public, Matteo Cecchi got what he deserved. You decide from the facts the author relates whether Prudenza’s fate was justified or not. A story of betrayal, loyalty, trust, friendship, hate, deceit and courage, this is one tale whose longevity will prevail. Characters that are clearly defined and whose roles are quite specific and clear- cut to the reader. Places and events whose descriptions are so vivid you can picture them in your mind and a woman whose emotional torment you feel every step of the way. Read the trial. Hear the words of the witnesses and feel the emotional pain that one young woman endured at the hands of a man who could not deal with success, life, family and accept love from those who truly cared for him.

The longevity of this tale will live on for quite some time. Abuse is wrong no matter what. To what lengths would you go to protect yourself and your loved ones from what Prudenza endured? Who was the real villian: Prudenza, Matteo or society not allowing a woman to stand up for herself against a man like Matteo?

A definite must read and a five star book.

Matteo de Cecchi: Victim or Victor: You Decide!

Fran Lewis: reviewer

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=14444&uid=155091741301

http://premierewriters.ning.com/forum/topics/the-trophy-wifes-tale-reviewed

http://coldcoffee.ning.com/forum/topics/the-trophy-wifes-tale-reviewed

http://thestorytellerscafe.spruz.com/blog.htm?a=&nid=DB29DDEC-49D1-4FF2-85D6-A3657CBCD399

Tales from Gundarland reviewed by fran lewis

Tales From Gundarland

Author: Hank Quense

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Welcome to Gundarland, a unique place filled with humans, dwarfs, Yuks, elves. Enter this world created by a god who sneezed. You read that right He sneezed with such force caused by snorting an overdose of His favorite recreational powder. Gundarland is the largest land mass of planet and you’ll want to read this outstanding, hysterical, humorous, creative and wildly funny novel by author Hank Quense.  Buy the book and you’ll get your very own gold passport to visit this wonderful place.

Hank Quense is the master of humor, satire and hilarity in this great book filled with magic, wizards, humans, and many races and, of course, some zany characters that I hope he brings back in his next book.

As to the stories themselves:

When Romeo and Juliet meet in ballet class it’s love at first sight. But her brothers do their best to destroy any hope of happiness for these two lovebirds. With a chaperone that is evil and brothers who think they can best Romeo, this story will delight readers, renew your faith in love and make you definitely crack up laughing.

Next we meet the newest superhero Zarro who rides his fractious mule Belinda, and hopes to make the world safe from Yuks and Elves alike. Stopping the execution of a dwarf and ridding the town of Yuks, Zarro hides his identity from friends, foes and family to make his world a safer place for the dwarves.  This is the only the first part of the novella, Chasing Dreams.

In Boggerts Blue, we meet a kidnapped princess who refuses to accept her rescuer because he is not a noble and not part of the right social class to rescue her.  What a rude thing to do.

The Big Bang is about loyalty, friendships, caring, protecting others from harm.  It’s heartwarming, and tears that will fall from your eyes and soak a tissue from laughter,

In the Queen’s Hero, the longest story in the book, you’ll meet a tinker-warrior, a semi-honest ship’s captain, a weather witch, a yuk pirate admiral, a queen, her three daughters and a band of irritating bureaucrats.  Great fun!

In the Merchant of Venison, you’ll learn what happens when a man wants a pound of flesh as a loan payment rather than the money. What does the judge decide and how is the debt finally paid? What law is invoked at the end that changes everything? Read this story and learn why lending money can be hazardous to your health and more.

The Inter-Racial Musical Playoffs involves wizards trying to fix the competition so they can rake in a bundle of money on their bets. Wait until you read this ending filled with twists, turns, spells and more.

The final story in this book is Tactical Surprise and it will endear you to the main characters and renew your faith in friendship, honesty and laughter.

http://premierewriters.ning.com/forum/topics/tales-from-gundarland-reviewed

http://minds-eye.ning.com/forum/topics/tales-from-gundarland-reviewed

http://coldcoffee.ning.com/forum/topics/tales-from-gundarland-reviewed

http://shopperspardise.ning.com/forum/topics/tales-from-gundarland-reviewed

http://thestorytellerscafe.spruz.com/blog.htm?a=&nid=DCA40DFE-3AC9-472F-B0A4-48F5C98BFE3B

http://www.theauthorssociety.spruz.com/pt/Tales-from-Gundarland-reviewed-by-fran-lewis/blog.htm

http://booktown.ning.com/forum/topics/tales-from-gundarland-reviewed

http://gabina49.webs.com/apps/blog/show/4520468-tales-from-gundarland-reviewed-by-fr

http://members.webs.com/MembersB/editAppPage.jsp?app=blog#blog/show/4520477-tales-from-gundarland-reviewed-by-fran

http://writing4all.ning.com/forum/topics/tales-from-gundarland-reviewed

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=14544&uid=155091741301

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=253&uid=135486133130440

The House by Anjuelle Floyd

The House

Author: Anjuelle Floyd

Divorce is final. Two people separate and decide what happens to their assets. Assets can include material things, houses, insurance polices and funds to care for their children and former spouse when all is said and done. Anna Manning has been waiting to finally her divorce from her husband Edward. The final meeting was amiable. The house they lived in was now hers and the papers were going to be finalized. Why was she suspicious of Edward’s change of heart? Why did he finally acquiesce and sign the papers? What was behind his change of mind? As you read my review of author Anjuelle Floyd’s outstanding and heartbreaking novel, The House, the answers to these and many other questions will be answered.

Many people measure their life’s worth by the material things they have and their value. People equate their status in a community by the cars they drive and the houses they live in. But, when tragedy strikes and your health is in jeopardy, all the treasures and jewels in the world cannot fix or pay for what you need in order to remain alive and live out your years in good health. One man and one woman who wanted the things we all do. One man who felt the way to provide for his wife and family was not with his time and presence but with a HOUSE= material things and a home that was truly just a shelter from the cold and not filled with love and warmth. So, why keep it and hold on to it?

Edward Manning was anything but a stellar husband. Frequently away on business trips, disregarding his marriage vows, he enjoyed the pleasures of other women while his wife Anna cared for and brought up their four children. Anna’s only desire and wish was to finalize their divorce, sell their home and move on with her life with another man. Inman really loves Anna and wants to create a new life for them. But, circumstances do not always allow you to get what you want; things happen that will change your life, and forgiveness and understanding come into play when you least expect them too.

Edward Manning has been dealt a bad hand. He has 6 months to live and is frustrated, angry and feels betrayed by his doctor. Unable to save his life and give him the time and years he so greatly desires, he pushed aside his words, disregards his wishes and lashes out at everyone in his wake. I really can’t blame him. Edward is no different from anyone who has been given the death sentence by a physician or has a family member given the same. I learned that doctors are not infallible; they definitely do not know everything. Most, if you are lucky can diagnose an illness; few can find a cure or fix the problem. Anna has a huge decision to make. After having her home signed over to her and her divorce papers signed, she rescinded having the house sold and tells her lawyer to forestall processing the final papers. Would you take care of a spouse that treated you poorly, was loved by his children, and sacrifice your own needs for a dying man? Author Anjuelle Floyd puts these questions to the test as we learn more about Anna and Edward and their past relationship and what will happen to both in the future.

The family drifting apart even further and many other tragedies added to this group of people with diverse attitude, personalities and opinions of their own. Added to this is the fact that Anna’s son David is married to someone out of his race and her daughter Serine seems torn between two men: both of different races. Anna is set in the middle of her daughter’s arrogance, feelings of neglect and disregard for her status in the family and her own personal conflicts dealing with Edward and the rest of her children. This makes for an intriguing and very eclectic plot. When Anna confides in her priest yet another perspective is given and things about herself, her true feelings are brought to light and now she must face many more emotional obstacles while caring for a husband who is dying but provided little or any emotional support for her in the past.

Edward was unfaithful to Anna throughout their marriage as her mother was to her father. Her children seem to follow in Edward’s image as Serine; the youngest is playing the same game with two men and her son’s wife with him. Edward spent his entire married life looking past what was in front of him, pretending to provide for his family, but money is not the only thing a wife needs. David, Theo, Anna all lacking the true love and commitment they signed on for when getting married. Trusting their spouses and having faith in their marriage was not in the cards for all three. Anna’s marriage turned into a mirror image of her parents. Millicent’s reasons for marry Theo the same as Anna’s for marrying Theo.  Heather has drifted away from David. Four children that are different yet the same. Two very self-absorbed and into their own needs and wants. Two learning life’s lessons from following in other ways. Mirrored lives and mirrored images that were clear in the glass before and cloudy and tarnished over the years. What will the final outcome be after Edward is gone? What will the final images that are seen in that huge mirror look like when all is said and done? What about Inman, the one person who truly cares for Anna? What about Serine? So many lives changes because of one man. So many lives torn apart by blaming one woman who just needed love, caring and her husband’s attention. Children do not always see things like adults too no matter what their age might be. David, Serine, Linda and Theo each had their own vision, thoughts and opinions about Anna, who needed to rebuild her own self=worth and self=esteem to continue to fight to become the person she needed to become.

Anna has spent her entire life seeking the acceptance of others. Her mother cold and distant never really accepted her or her marriage to Edward. Edward, a carbon copy of her mother and Millicent’s dad, concerned themselves with their own superficial needs, work devoid of any real family commitments. Anna learned the rules of hard knocks from her mother and how to deal with love and marriage be becoming cold, distant and unfeeling. Anna escaped her life with her parents by marrying Edward and Millicent by marrying Theo. How far can you run and escape the truth about people and not face the realities?

Surprises and twists to this plot that you will never forget. One man whose life created much unhappiness, uncertainty and distress to his wife and children. One man whose dying wishes will astound and surprise the reader. One man who felt that one house was his life, his legacy and more. A house is not a home unless the people in it love and care for each other. You cannot make a home with bricks and mortar alone.

To appease Anna or to compensate for his guilt he turns over his company to her, which she reluctantly accepts. Undergoing to scrutiny of the shareholders and investors Anna learns more than a lesson in business acumen. As the meeting gets out of her control in walks Inman and things begin to change. What follows is not unusual when shareholders and stockholders uncertain about the qualifications of the new President and hasty moves are made.

Boxes kept two men in business. Boxes that can be tightly shut and taped so that their contents will not spill out when delivered. As the tape wears off and the edges of the boxes fray eventually you retape it or get a new box. Edward Manning’s life frayed at the end and the glue that kept him together withered from use and the true meaning of his life came full circle upon his death. With a mother who had to invent ways to stay afloat and a husband who was not there for her, Edward became a mirror image of something who truly was not: cold, distant and hurting. He spent his entire life searching to find his mother and then back to Anna. Unfortunately, some things are too late for words. One man whose family was holding on for dear life as the edges of the box frayed and began to fall apart. Rediscovery is vital and Anna with the help of one man learns the true meaning of forgiveness, loyalty and understanding. Sometimes what we think we see is a veiled truth that hides are true selves from others in order put up a protective shield preventing us from getting hurt. Like a vaccine that allows us to become immune from a disease lives journey needs its shots, its shields and its hugs and love too.

Take this journey along with Anna and her family and find out the true meaning The House. Some people live life dealing with work, their accomplishments and alone. Others like Anna, David, Serine, Theo, and Linda learn the true meaning of life and family.

Misconceptions, secrets revealed, lies that unfold and misunderstandings and a family that needs to heal their unseen wounds that will bind them together and make them stronger. This is a heartfelt, heartbreaking and enlightening novel that brings to mind what happens when people don’t listen, when voices are not heard and the strength of one woman to bring it all together. What happens to this family you will have to read for yourself? What happens to Manning Ventures and Anna you will learn as you turn each page shed your tears and allow this family to come into your life and remain with you even after you turn the last page and read the last word.

This is a must read for everyone who wants to learn the true mean of The House and the value of it contents.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

http://newwriting.ning.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

http://coldcoffee.ning.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd-1

http://theauthorssociety.ning.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

http://shopperspardise.ning.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

http://thestorytellerscafe.spruz.com/pt/The-House-by-Anjuelle-Floyd/blog.htm

http://premierewriters.ning.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

http://www.theauthorssociety.spruz.com/pt/The-House-by-Anjuelle-Floyd/blog.htm

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=135486133130440&topic=250

http://booktown.ning.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

http://www.writerface.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

http://www.shewrites.com/forum/topics/the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

http://gabina49.webs.com/apps/blog/show/4486188-the-house-by-anjuelle-floyd

30 Days to Empower Yourself As A Writer : reviewed by Fran Lewis

30 Days To Empower Yourself To Become A Writer

Author: Sherri Rosen

Speaking about writing, self-publishing and publicity is the primary focus of this informational and valuable resource for new authors, experienced authors and anyone seeking a career as a publicist. Publicist and author Sherri Rosen shares her secrets, ideas and invaluable years of experience in a must have EBook that will help you get your work noticed, “30 Days To Empower Yourself to Become A Writer.

From the beginning Ms. Rosen captures the readers attention by asking three intriguing attention grabbers that will stimulate the writer in you from the start. Nothing that complicated but straightforward stating that you should write about what you know, personal experiences, your truth and most important find your voice. Before writing my first book I made a list of many subjects that interested me and that I might want to explore. Tall order for a first time author, I decided to move in another direction. Writing down all the things I hated about my childhood and some that I loved, I created a list that might help me begin my first book of short stories. After finally writing this book the hard part was how to get it published which is where this book and the information in it would have helped me greatly to avoid some of the pitfalls that new authors face when trying to get their work out there and noticed.

The author discusses her services, criteria for working with a client, the work that goes into promoting your book and what you can expect from her throughout this process. Relating many of her success stories and discussing when and why you might engage her services or that of a publicist, helped the reader get a better handle on just how hard publicists work and why you need to choose the right one for you and your project.

One of the most important components of a good publicist campaign is developing a press kit, media kit and creating a dynamite proposal to get people to want to buy your book and attract enough attention from your target audience. As the author so aptly states right from the beginning book reviewers, like myself, and producers receive many press kits and proposals on a daily basis. You need to create one that is different, stands out and really has that WOW factor to make people stand up and take notice. That is what Ms. Rosen does and that is why you need to remember she is the consummate professional and will discuss her strategies, her goals for your book, your goals for your book and more. Dealing with cost should not be a primary issue when hiring her services. This area could negate having her represent you and should the primary focus of your discussions when deciding how to promote your book. If someone focuses on the cost and the money involved she feels that might get in the way of her completing her job in the professional and complete way.

Not discerning on what type of publisher you decide to engage you need to do your homework first. Find out all about these publishers, their services, ask other authors about their experiences using different publishers and make a list of questions, as I did to ask when speaking to a representative on the phone. Know what you want, what you expect from them and make sure you get it all in writing. Check out their websites and see what packages they offer. See what is included and what you might want that is extra. Check out if there are any complaints against them and for what.

Next, she encourages the author to create their own events to promote their books. Check out bookstores, malls, and local events during a holiday that might lend itself to your subject matter or title and ask if you might be included in that event and what it entails. Many bookstores have local author nights, which I have participated in, and they are fun. You might have to invest in buying your book and bringing them to the store to sell, but it is one way to get out there and some bookstores will even carry your book on the shelf after the author’s night. Great self-promotion.

How willing are you at taking risks? The author created a list of thought provoking questions to stimulate your creative juices and help you get started. Just how willing are you to take chances and not play it safe? How do you feel when you are out of your comfort zone and don’t play it safe? I answered all of her questions and found out a lot about myself, as I know you will too.

There are many sayings or quotes that we all use in our work, discussions and life in general. These quotes are included in the section titled “Quotations that Inspire.” These quotes will help inspire and enhance your thought processes and encourage you to answer the interesting questions related to each quote that follows.

There are many things that you cannot learn in school or in books. These are the ingredients or things that help make you a well-rounded, interesting and creative person. These simple traits can be applied to your writing, pursuing and achieving your career goals and promoting yourself and your book. Respect, kindness, passion, humility and tenacity for starters are valuable personality traits for success. Knowing when to agree and say yes, and when to say is important too. There are many other tools that the author lists and explains but in order to find out what they are you need to read the book for yourself. In order to really understand and learn the valuable lessons and understand these traits you need to buy this great EBook and read it for yourself, answer the questions and apply them to yourself and your goals for success.

The next three areas that the author relates deal with things that turn you on and ignite you and light your fire in order to decide on what career you might want to embark on and what you are passionate about. I love making lists. Ms. Rosen encourages the reader/ new author to write down what inspires them and what areas or subjects will make you take action right from the start. Write down and do three things differently in one day. See what happens. How do you feel? Would you do it again or go back to the old way of doing things? What are you passionate about? What about these things turn your motor on full throttle and what things turn it down or back to neutral?

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty of this great book. I read the book four times and underlined many areas that I feel would help me if I wanted to hire a publicist and areas that I could use to improve the sales of my books too. The author compiled a list of what you need to address and do before hiring a publicist. I will highlight just some of them the rest you need to read for yourself. I would surf the net and see find out what questions I need to ask before even making a phone call. I would list those questions and add any more that I feel I wanted to address in an initial phone call. I would research their references and ask about their success. The rest you will have to read for yourself.

For anyone that wants to wing it on his or her own Ms. Rosen list what you can do to self-promote your book. One valuable tool is to create a media or press kit and another a mini EBook or real book of your book that your are selling. As she states it is like a brochure that you can hand out at events to entice readers to buy your book. Something tangible is what everyone wants and coming away with something that gives them just a small taste of what the big picture has in store for them might just be your ticket to success.

Testimonials are included from many who have worked with her and other publicists to give you an idea of what they expect from clients and what you can expect from a publicist. The author even discusses what she looks for in clients and what would cause her to terminate a relationship. Finally, whether you are self-published or traditionally published you need to do your homework. She has created a list of vital, valuable and important questions that you need to answer before writing your book or short stories. Answering these questions and following the advice in this valuable must have EBook will help you become more knowledgeable about the role of a publicist, like Ms. Rosen and empower you as writing.

Concise and well-written resource that is easy to understand and definitely a five star EBOOK.

I am honored to have been asked to read and review this great resource that I am going to use before writing my next book.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer