K. Caffee's Blog

“We are born in the shadow of fading memories and fallen dreams, living our days within the decaying bones of an age long gone.”

When the Engineer, Actaeon, arrives at Pyramid in the heart of Redemption, nothing goes according to plan. Mysterious raiders pursue him relentlessly across the shattered remains of the ancient metropolis, and the leaders of his homeland pay no heed to his ambitious ideas. Meanwhile, deep beneath Pyramid, a deadly creature stirs. And, when Actaeon meets a skilled young Knight Arbiter with brilliant blue eyes, he starts down a path he could never have imagined.

The vast, fallen city of the Ancients is home to a new people who face the constant struggle to find resources needed to survive in the dangerous ruins. For the Engineer, however, Redemption is a treasure trove of technology, opportunity, and answers. But his unique skills make him a target for those who would use his talents to achieve their own dreams of power and control.

In his endless quest for the truth, will Actaeon discover the fallen city’s greatest secrets? Or will he share the same fate as the Ancients of whom nothing remains but a whisper?

One thing is certain: in Redemption, everything comes with a cost.

Welcome back everyone.  Darran, welcome back to you as well.  Who’s this gentleman with you today?

Actaeon steps forward and leans upon his halberd. “Good day to you, fine lady. I am Actaeon Rellios of Shore. And what, may I ask, is your name?”

Welcome Actaeon. ::Bows politely:: I am known as “K.” or “Pukah” depending who is speaking. I answer to both.

May I inquire where Rellios of Shore is?

Actaeon grins. “Well, I am speaking, so you can tell me your preference given that knowledge. And Rellios of Shore is right before you. Rellios is my family’s name, you see. I am from Shore, which lies at the southern edge of Redemption, it is a Hold of the Raedelle Dominion. I grew up there, in the town of Incline. You have not heard of it?”

I am afraid not. I don’t get to get out and travel as much as I wish. Is it hard to get to, Redemption?

Actaeon appears intrigued. “Quite fascinating, Lady K. I have not met anyone from outside the city before – at least not anyone that was not trying to kill me. Redemption is the ruined city of the Ancients. On the west it borders the sea and on the east it borders hostile tribal lands. It would be quite difficult and dangerous to make it there from without, I would imagine. Might I ask where you are from?”

A little world called “Earth”. With that much destruction, I am led to believe you are not a native to Earth, are you?

“Curious. So you are from a different world? Or perhaps a different location in the same world as I. I have not heard of this Earth, but I should like to know more. Those who live in Redemption arrived through portals that opened up nearly a century ago. Could this ‘Earth’ have been an origination point for those people?”

Possibly. Do your people consider themselves to be human, or is there another term for your race, or species?

“We are most certainly human, though for some I am sure that is debatable, ” he says with a chuckle. “As far as I can tell, the vanished Ancients were human as well. Why do you ask? Are you human? Do you know of other races?” He leans forward, eager to know more.

That I do, and I have met others from other worlds who are not human.

You mention portals – that brings up another question for me. Is there magic in your world?

Actaeon laughs at that question. “Well, some would call it that. The technology that the Ancients have left behind – the artifacts. Many in Redemption are convinced they are magic. Some worship these artifacts while others seek to destroy them, convinced that they led to the destruction of the Ancients. They are not magic though. Their function has an explanation, though sometimes it is beyond our understanding. It is one of my driving goals in life, to understand more about the truth behind such artifacts.”

We have a few pieces of technology like that here as well.

Actaeon, one last question, then I’ll let you go home. Hypothetically, if you could achieve your heart’s desire, what would it be?

“You do, Lady K? I should like to examine them if you can spare any.”

Actaeon takes a long moment to think about the question before replying. “My heart’s desire – such a strange concept that an organ which pushes lifeblood through the body would have a desire. I understand your metaphorical meaning however. My greatest desire has always been to find the answers to many problems. You see, I am an Engineer by trade. I wish to discover the truth behind a great many things: how the artifacts work, how to make them ourselves, how to utilize technology to solve humanity’s problems, why we are here and what happened to the Ancients. If I could achieve one thing, it would be to discover that – to discover what happened to the Ancients. It is the biggest mystery of my world. I am realistic though, and I realize that such a question is unlikely to be answered in my lifetime, if ever. That will not stop me from searching though.”

He remembers then, her previous statement. “You said you have met non-human people from other worlds. I would be delighted to hear about them – both the people and the worlds.”

Actaeon, there are many different worlds, races, and species. Before you return home, see if Darran will take you by a library. In there, you will find many worlds to explore, and information on just about any subject.

For the strange technology, in part it is from those who may not be as advanced in science as others, and in part it may be phenomena we haven’t figured out yet. (Not everything can be made to fit in a test tube, after all.)

Perhaps one, or both of those sources might provide some help in achieving your desire. It can be hard knowing you are trying to solve something that may not be solvable in one lifetime.

Actaeon, thank you so much for letting Darran bring you over to visit.

Darran, thank you again for visiting.

Any last words?

Actaeon runs a hand through his hair behind the goggles on his forehead as he listens.

“I will do just that and interrogate this Darran fellow, Lady K. Thank you for your suggestion. As with any endeavor, the success is often questionable. It is our duty in life to try for such lofty goals, for if not us, then who? And if not now, then when? We are the shapers of our own destinies, but the first step is to try. Many times the reward lies in the effort as well as the end.” The Engineer bows his head deeply then and steps back. “You have my thanks, Lady K, for this frank discussion.”

Darran steps forward then. “I hope you’ve enjoyed a sampling of Actaeon. If you’d like to read more about his adventures in the ruined, futuristic city of Redemption as he is drawn into unexpected adventures, romance and politics, look for The Engineer, A Chronicles of Actaeon Story, [out] on Amazon. “

Actaeon stiffens at the words and arches a brow at Darran. “You are going to have to answer quite a few questions, good sir.”

I think I’ll let you two have that discussion, gentlemen.

Actaeon, it was a pleasure to meet you.

Thank you everyone who’s stopped by to visit.  I hope you enjoyed the interview (not sure who was being interviewed here.)  If you’d like to connect with Darran, you can find him on his Facebook , Twitter, or The Engineer’s Indiegogo site.  

Don’t forget to stop by frequently to see who else has stepped in to Visit with the Pukah.  

Any comments or questions can be left below.  Discussions are always welcome here.

Major Danjay and his captains, Agreb, an elf, and Mizon, a centaur, and the Byzantine sector forces are on the planet of Kwasang, quelling an uprising led by the fanatic Jakan. Danjay is badly injured. Only his smartsuit, his bionanotech and the prompt action of Agreb and Mizon save his life. Elves and centaurs had visited earth in man’s formative history. They then retreated, ensuring their presence on earth passed into myth. When eventually man reached out into the galaxy, the elves and centaurs were there to greet them. Fifteen standards after Kwasang, the three heroes are once more on Jakan’s trail. However, unknown to them, Jakan is under the control of another mythical creature, who with other members of its race, also visited earth in prehistoric times. Their intentions however are far from altruistic. For Danjay, this will not only mean confronting man’s ancient foe but also his own ancestry.

Welcome back to the Character Interview series.  Today, Ian has returned, and brought one of his friends with him.  Ian, do you wish to introduce the gentleman?

[This is] Danjay (just Danjay)

No last name?

[No.]

Then, Danjay it is.  Danjay, since I know Ian writes science fiction, and since you are in an unusual uniform, I am going to stick my neck out, and ask if you are human, or alien.

Human with a partially non-human ancestry

That’s an interesting mix.  Do you work closely, or have human friends, or are they as unusual as you are?

My two closest friends are an Elf and a Centaur (yes, this is still science fiction)

I can bet that makes finding accommodations for the night a rather interesting prospect.  Would you change anything about your circumstances if you could?

Rid myself of those non-human genes

Your ancestry is not the most respected then?

One of my ancient ancestors is a Fairy – a two metre tall alien with telepathic powers that can be used to control others

That could be a bit disconcerting, all right.  Do you have any fears related to this?

That without my knowledge I have used the vestiges of those same powers on others.

That is definitely understandable.  Perhaps, in time, you will know enough to understand when (or if) you are using your talents.

Ian, Danjay, thank you so much for stopping by today.  Danjay, it has been a pleasure to meet you.  Ian, it has been fun once again to learn more about the way you think.

If you enjoyed the interview, and wish to learn more about Danjay, the image above will take you to Amazon, where you can pick up his story for yourself.

If you enjoyed the interview, and wish to connect with Ian, you can find him on his website, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you have any comments or questions, please leave them below.  Discussion is always welcome around here.

Today is Emily Zylaz’s birthday. This is the day that she has chosen to kill herself. After struggling for many years to cope with the roller-coaster of mental illness, a devastating failed marriage, and a soul-destroying career that is going nowhere, she’s giving up. Feeling like the only solution to all of her problems is to take her own life, Emily plans to hang herself at midnight. She believes no one will care that she’s dead, that she won’t be missed, and that everyone will be better off without her and her fickle moods. As we journey alongside Emily, counting down the hours on her last day alive, we explore the twisted labyrinth of her troubled mind and learn why she so desperately wants to die.

Welcome back, and Roni, thank you for returning.  Who do you have with you today?

Emily Zylaz

Welcome Emily.  Why don’t you start us off with a little about yourself?

Madison calls me Emmy-poo because when I was a toddler, that’s how I said my name when people asked. It stuck and she uses it whenever we see each other.

Who is Madison?

Madison is my older sister. She’s more than ten years older than me so she wasn’t around much when I was growing up. She kind of drifted in and out of my life when I was a child, spending most of her time away at school, and then later on she moved away to work as a curator in Belgium. She’s a bit like a stranger to me, and I feel like I don’t know her that well. There were times when we did things together when I was a kid, but we also clashed from time to time. Most of the time, I just remember her being absent.

Sounds like you’ve had a rough childhood.  Has this affected the way you get along with others?

I don’t play well with others, and prefer to be left alone with my books. Mostly it’s because I’m secretly afraid of scrutiny and criticism, and I get tongue-tied in the company of strangers, especially men. My tongue feels like a rolled-up carpet and I have no idea what to say. I can’t help but feel stupid when I’m expected to speak.

Has this created enemies for you, or given you a group of people you don’t like?

Bullies do so much invisible damage to a vulnerable person that it’s difficult for someone like me to speak out against them. They come in all shapes and sizes, ages and professions, and their range of bullying tactics seems to be endless. It seems like a cycle, that those people have suffered somewhere in their lives too, and feel the need to snatch back their power by taking the power of others. I’d like to see all bullies and their victims united in the struggles of life and helping each other get through the tough spots. No bullies, no victims, just everyone helping everyone else. It’s impossible, I know. But dreams are free.

Yet, that is such a worthy dream to work towards.  Is there anything you would like to change about yourself that would help you bring that dream closer to reality?

I would become one of those confident self-assured women that I see around me, defending their rights and the rights of others, speaking out against injustice and social bullying and harassment, and walking with my head held high as I march down the street, instead of focusing on the cracks in the pavement and pretending to be invisible.

Has this led to any secrets you’re willing to share with us?

I never told anyone about the baby I lost when I was married. My husband Garrett knew, but he found out too late that I was pregnant. I hadn’t got my head around the idea yet and didn’t have the opportunity to tell him. After I recovered from the physical trauma of the miscarriage, I was so ashamed at my failure to protect my baby that I didn’t speak to anyone else about my loss. It’s a heavy secret I’ve carried inside me for years.

I’m so sorry to hear that.  But, you can speak of it now, which is a positive change.  Do you have anything you’d like to say to the folks who have read your book?

[No]

I understand.  Thank you for being brave, and coming in to talk to us today.  Roni, thank you so much for bringing Emily by.

If you are interested in more of Emily’s story, you can pick up a copy of Broken here on Amazon.

And, there she goes folks.  Roni Askey-Doran.  If you enjoyed the interview, you can find her blog here, Twitter here, and Amazon page with most of her books here.  

Don’t forget to stop by regularly to see who else has come in to Visit with the Pukah.

If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Discussions are always welcome here.

Planet Earth is in trouble. At the end of the twenty first century, the population is still increasing, climate change has not been arrested, sea levels are rising, millions are suffering death and starvation. Then a treatment is discovered that will allow people to live hundreds, perhaps thousands of years. Gunther Kleim leads a team of fifty top scientists, economists and sociologists tasked with modelling the world’s uncertain future. Their conclusion is the inevitable breakdown of human civilisation. Gunther has a proposal. It won’t stop earth’s decline, but it might give it hope: ‘Project Noah’ the most audacious and ambitious project of science and exploration since man first set foot on the moon. The aim – to preserve a piece of civilisation, taking thousands, eventually hundreds of thousands of people, to the stars.

Ian, welcome back.  And, welcome back everyone else to our ongoing Character Interview series.  Ian, who do you have with you today?

Gunther Kleim

Gunther, since you are working on preserving civilization, I’m sure you are under a great deal of pressure.  Are you someone who handles it well?

I hope so, I’m trying to persuade tens of thousands of people to join me in a project that could take a hundred years and will end with us travelling to the stars.

Are you having to deal with a particular class of individuals you consider your enemies?

People who refuse to see what we humans have done to the world and that all the evidence points to us destroying our own civilization.  People who want to stop ‘Project Noah’.

Do you have anyone special in your life to turn to when things become overwhelming?

No, it wouldn’t be fair.  And ‘Project Noah’ is a jealous mistress.

Do you have any fears that you wish to share?

That I’m leading people on a hundred year project that is doomed to fail.  At the beginning we don’t have most of the technology we’ll need.  So much of it is an act of faith.

They say that necessity is the mother of invention.  And, it may seem cold comfort now, but I’m sure this is the grandmother of invention for the technology you are seeking.

To counterbalance your fears, do you have any hopes, or achievements that show how you’ve already overcome some of that fear?

The vision, ingenuity, tenacity and brilliance of human beings.  Without that ‘Project Noah’ would never even have got started.

That definitely counts as a wonderful achievement.  Gunther, thank you for coming by today with Ian.  It has been a pleasure sitting down and talking with you.

If you enjoyed the interview, and wish to learn more about Gunther, the image above will take you to Amazon, where you can pick up his story for yourself.

If you enjoyed the interview, and wish to connect with Ian, you can find him on his website, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Don’t forget – stop back often to see who else has come to Visit with the Pukah.

If you have any comments or questions, please leave them in the area below.  Discussions are always welcome here.

Jon-Erik, Joey, Angel, and Tina have been through some severe tough times together, and they’ve made it through to the other side. But just as things are finally calming down and starting to go smoothly for them, chaos reenters their lives, and it threatens to destroy everything they hold dear. This highly anticipated sequel to author Wolf Schimanski’s debut novel Meter of Deception finds the fearless foursome comfortably settled into a domestic paradise. Jon-Erik and Angel as well as Joey and Tina have settled down and are engaged to be married, and the men are working together as partners in Joey’s family furniture business. But corporate shark Richard Rasmussin has his sights set on their business, and he’s determined to swallow it whole. A ruthless, underhanded, crooked man, he’ll stop at nothing until he takes hold of the business, and he’ll do whatever it takes to make sure that no one interferes with his larger, wide-sweeping wicked schemes. Can these four friends muster up the courage and skill to survive Rasmussin’s attacks? Or will they fall victim to corruption, depravity, and danger that is unprecedented even for them? The second installment in the Meter trilogy, Meter of Corruption, follows the protagonists as they battle to protect their lives and livelihoods from the sinister web that threatens to suffocate them. Full of non-stop action, unexpected plot twists, and spine-tingling revelations, this page-turner spans wayward and exotic locations, such as Jamaica and Russia, and delves into an underworld so dark and diabolical it’ll leave you at a loss for words.

Welcome back, Wolf.  Thanks for stopping by again today.  Who do you have with you?

Mikhail.

Is there a last name, by any chance?

No last name at least none I remember.

Mikhail, do you have any nicknames that you prefer?

I have many nicknames. Ninja, Monster, Shape shifter, Dispatcher of Souls.  I am called these as that is what I do and I do it better than anyone else in this world. Do not test me… or I will show you!

Those are some powerful names.  Did you get them because you are something other than human?

I am human but I have evolved beyond the boring gnats that are human. I am a Predator of the highest order and none can stand in my way.  I am an expert in most martial arts out there, have mastered the forbidden art of Ninjitzu making me a master of all weaponry, hand to hand combat, deception, disguise, impersonation , concealment and so much more. But my skills have evolved to the point of mind-reading and invisibility. I am the one that cannot be vanquished.

Were you born someplace that gave you access to such training?

[I was born] in the back alleys of Moscow, Russia some thirty five years ago.The cold and dank alleys of Moscow are where I learned my trade. Rats and stray dogs slunk from my shadow. Anyone who got in my way was eliminated. I became the whisper in the wind that no one wanted to talk about. And if they did they were silenced forever.

Do you have any family or people from your past whom you’d like to visit again?

None that I know of. If I did I might have killed them if they got in my way.Only cold, hardship and living on the streets and the back alleys of Moscow until my instructor took me in and taught me Ninjitzu. I killed him in a fight to prove I was better than him and threw him off a rooftop into a litter strewn alley.  He was of no further use to me.

Did your early years affect how you see yourself, and your personality?

I have no time for that. I eat, drink, practice my skills and execute those that I am paid to. And sometimes those who get in my way or just annoy me like the gnats they really are.I do not care about good or bad. I only care about who I am going to eliminate next and for how much. I would destroy anything in my path but after meeting Angel who I am sworn to protect, maybe I am getting a little softer. Or maybe not….

What profession did you go into that requires such dedication?

I am the best and highest paid contract killer in the world. It is all I know and all I do.

I’m guessing then, that you do not get along well with others then.

I do not need others. Only myself. But I am sworn to protect Angel so I grudgingly get along with her friends although I do not have much patience for them.  And my pilot Joseph who has been on missions with me in the past. I let him live as he is useful to me.

Doesn’t that put a lot of pressure on you, just to protect yourself?

Pressure? What is that? I only feel disdain for my opponents and satisfied when I do my job better than anyone else ever could.

Does this choice of lifestyle create enemies for you?

I care not about that. I eliminate those I am paid to. Nothing personal. Just business.  Angel will have a powerful nemesis however that I cannot wait to get my hands on. He will suffer greatly before I send him straight to hell.

Would she be someone you would be interested in dating, or is that activity something you prefer not to think about?

I have no time for that. I am too busy eliminating those who I am paid to. But I am developing a special bond with Angel. But even I cannot look into the future so who knows what will happen?I take my pleasure when and where I want. The rest does not interest me.

Do you have anyone you can turn to for help and support when needed?

Angel, who I am sworn to protect, has great skills of her own. I may work with her in the future depending on how much she learns. And Joseph can get me to anywhere in the world I need to go and back me up. That is why he is still breathing.

Do you have any plans for the future?

I only care about now. The future is not ours to see. Not even for me.

Have you ever dreamed of being something else?

I am already the Ninja, the apex Predator out there. No creature on earth can best me. I will say no more.

There isn’t anything you’d want to change?

I am total perfection. Why should I?

How do you handle insults or complements?

I do not care. If they get in my way I will send them into the next life without batting an eye.[With complements] You are mistaken. They know better than to make me mad.

Do you have any deep secrets you can share?

If I did, I would have to eliminate those I tell.

Ah.  Right.  Didn’t mean to push there.  Do you have any fears you work to overcome?

I have none. I am and I do. Nothing more, nothing less.

Do you have any accomplishments you can share with us?

My protégé Angel’s progress.  She has incredible skills already and is evolving daily. That makes me feel like a proud papa.

Mikhail, you have definitely shaped yourself to fit the life you have chosen.  Deep, dark, mysterious… and dangerous.  Thank you for coming by today with Wolf.  I enjoyed talking with you, and learning more about you.

Wolf, thank you again for stopping by, and bringing your… friend.  It has been great visiting with you both.

For the readers, if you are interested in reading more about Mikhail, you can find his stories in Wolf’s books:

Don’t forget to stop by again to see who else has wandered in to Visit with the Pukah.

If you have any comments or questions, please leave them below. As always, discussions are welcome around here.

Rafe has successfully rescued Sofia from his enemies and has brought her home. He is excited about Sofia meeting their father and joining the Raizyns in their fight against the Diasodz. Unfortunately, bringing Sofia home does not have the effect he had hoped for. In the process of trying to bring his family together, he may have discovered a reason to tear them apart.

When Sofia awakens, she discovers that her life has been uprooted once again, and this time she is in more danger than she has ever been. Sofia’s only focus is on finding a way to escape and get back to Ar’ch, but leaving Rafe becomes more difficult when she realizes that not everything is as it seems.

Damiana is furious when she learns that her daughter has been brought home. Her plans to use Sofia as a secret weapon within the Diasodz compound is destroyed with Rafe’s meddling. Despite the setback, Damiana knows that she still has the upper hand, but her control is tested when even more secrets are exposed.

Each of them believes that she/he knows who the true savior of their people is, but when the truth is revealed, how will they handle it? And whose side will the savior support? The stakes have never been higher for the Raizyns, and Damiana plans to make sure that the savior is on their side no matter what it takes.



Expectations

Since The One Betrayed wound up being such a repeat of The One Enlightened I really expect this one to push forward in time.  The battle lines appear to be drawn, and the stage is thoroughly set.  My question now is:  Can Ms. Calleiro deliver on the tension she’s built up?

World Building

This is the fourth book of the series, and so I did not expect much world building to occur.  There is a continuation of the political aspects of the worlds Ms. Calleiro created, as well as a large leap in the refinement of our understanding of how the magic system works.  Beyond that, the world building for this series has been completed (unless new areas are introduced – which the hints provided through the narrative may come to pass.)

Character Development

With the overall developments, twists and turns in the genealogy, along with the betrayals and tests of loyalty, the amount of character development is immense in this installment.  The story style shifts from a plot driven story line back to the character-driven story, which really highlights the growth each of the characters undergoes, even though much of the growth happens in extremely unexpected ways.  Especially with the amount of broken trust, exposed lies, and general soap opera feel to the story line in general.  It is still an engaging read as we see the characters start to really come into their own and begin thinking independently and analytically.

Pacing

Overall, the pacing in this installment is very well done.  Though it remains a slow burn, there are several places where it simmers and pops properly, making the book hard to put down.  To me, the pacing fit the events much better than the previous two installments, which really enhanced the read.

Overall Rating

An enthusiastic 5 of 5 paws from this pukah.  Many unexpected twists and turns; plenty of pop and sizzle; and enough tension and mystery to make it a very satisfying read.  Now I just want to know how it ends – there’s at least one more book due in the series, just had a chance to read it yet.

If you would like to read The One Revealed for yourself, you can get a copy from Amazon Here.

Do you want to become a master of social media marketing and conquer every popular social media website such as, Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, YouTube and Instagram? This book will serve as your guide to conquering the realm of social media online. If you have a business and you are not involved in Internet marketing, then you are leaving money on the table! Gone are the days of basic radio and television advertising. Now is the time of the Internet and creating high quality online advertisements and content that have the potential to go viral is what is going to make you the most money

I picked this book up, honestly because it was free, and I know I’m still an absolute beginner when it comes to marketing online.  I’m, frankly, a “soft sell”, even when I’m face-to-face.  So, anything that can help break down the barrier between what I should be doing, and what I’m not doing I figure is a good thing.

This is a very, very basic beginners guide to what the different platforms are and how to set up accounts on each one.  It does an adequate job of explaining how to engage on each platform.  However, it does nothing to address how to come up with content, or how to actually attract and engage customers.

Though this is a good starting point, this is not a book for anyone who has any experience around the internet – most of the common platforms you come in contact with you’ll already be beyond the scope of this book.  For the rest, there are other free blogs, articles, and information sources on the internet.

This one draws a very poor 1.5 out of 5 paws from this pukah.  I read it, and for me, the best benefit was that it was short.  There was no new information for me to glean from the pages .  If you are just starting, and thinking about some of the platforms, it might be worth investigating, so long as it remains free.

Sandra is a hereditary witch with a very human problem. Her pregnant friend Elaine has moved in with her and they are trying to make a home together. Juggling work and magic is no easy task for her; add to that the emotional ups and downs of her friend and you have a recipe for disaster.

Three months after the events of Backfire, Sandra and Elaine have to face more magical concerns as Malcolm invades their lives. Will his dark influences cause them more heartache?

Waterfall reveals more about Malcolm, his motivations, and how he wound up the kind of jerk he became.

With dark magic, Gods, and ancient creatures bubbling up from the ether, Sandra and Elaine have much more on their plate than trying to figure out how to make their new life work.

Welcome back.  Tonight we’ll be chatting with Malcolm Downing from Waterfall:  New Beginnings Vol. 2.

Philipp, will you introduce us?

Hello, this is Malcolm Downing. He’s one of the characters in my Dark of the Moon, New Beginnings series. He’s had a lot to say to me lately, so I thought I’d bring him in to talk to you all, too.

Welcome Malcolm. Thank you for letting Philipp bring you over to visit.

Will you start us off with a little about yourself, and where you’re from?

[Hello.]  I’m Malcolm Downing of the Lincoln Downings. My uncle and father run one of the most successful business empires in the Midwest. You could say I come from money. A lot of it.

What business, if I may ask?

The Downings are in a lot of businesses. Banking, computer technology, we own properties all over the state of Nebraska and a good bit into Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. We’re expanding into Colorado, but Wyoming isn’t of much interest to us. Like the rest of the country.

Are you from Nebraska, then?

Born and raised here. My family hails from New England. They came west in the late 1800’s and bought up a lot of land in Nebraska. A good investment.

If you’re dealing in investments, am I far off the mark thinking you’re under a lot of pressure to deliver results?

I let my father and uncle deal with that. Francis and Zachary are the kingpins to the family business. I’ve been out of the loop on most of the decisions up to this point. After college they distanced themselves from me.

Trouble in the family?

They thought I had gotten involved with the wrong sort of woman. Someone beneath the family name.

Oh, dear. Is she still in your life?

No. I tried calling her today and she hung up on me. Elaine has become quite different of late. Must be Sandra Blackwell’s influence her. The little witch!

That sounds like you’ve got an enemy. Or am I misinterpreting your words?

Depends on what you mean. Sandra’s a little miss goody-goody. She comes from an old family, too. Not wealthy, mind you. The Blackwells have had influence on a different arena. Her way is not my way.

That does tend to complicate things. Do you have anyone who’s ways mesh with yours better?

Uncle Zachary and my father have been training me since I could walk and talk. To take over a different aspect of the family business. I’m not good with business, I’m rather skilled with magick.

Sounds interesting. How would that work in today’s world with so much disbelief?

Pshah! The masses don’t have to believe. What matters is that we believe.

Plausible – as I’ve seen some interesting results from that method.

Changing the subject a bit – can you share anything about your dreams and ambitions?

Oh, erhm. I know I won’t be taking over the family’s financial business. That doesn’t matter to me. I’ve got all I need when it comes to money.
Wow. Did I just say that? Anyway…
I want to continue moving forward with my training, learn what I can and do what is needed for the Downings to remain at the forefront of everything we are involved with.I can be sentimental, though. A loving wife and children to carry on the name would be very nice. Yes, nice indeed.

I know you said you just had an ugly break up – any other ladies of interest?

Not right now, no. Before Elaine left – though she’d say I left her – my mother passed away. I wasn’t able to go to the memorial. I’m … I don’t know. I’m just here right now. Relationships are not easy. If I could, though, I’d get Elaine back.

Forgive me for poking a sore subject. I can be a bit too nosy at times.

One last question for you in a completely different subject. If you could be anything in the world, what would you choose?

Nosy, yes. Thank you for not probing further.Hmmm. If I could be anything… Master of my own destiny. But that’s not possible. The Downings have a destiny that has no regard for me.

Malcolm, thank you again for coming over to visit. Best wishes for success in your endeavors.

Thank you, thank you. Now, if you don’t mind, Uncle Zachary has plans for me this evening. Good night!

Good night.

Philipp, thank you for making a return trip, and bringing Malcolm with you.  Any last words before you leave?

Thank you. It has been a pleasure, as always.Don’t let Malcolm’s remarks about Sandra or Elaine color your perception of them. They are both lovely ladies. Just trying to make a go of things with what life has handed them.

I’ll keep that in mind. ::chuckles:: I’ve seen first hand how “old” money doesn’t like “new” money, and similar with respect and prestige within family lines.

If you enjoyed the interview, and want to get a head start on Malcolm’s tale, head over to Amazon, or Barns and Noble here to pick up a copy of Backfire: Dark of the Moon, New Beginnings Vol. 1 for your self.  

If you’d like to connect with Philipp and stalk… erm… follow his progress on Waterfall, you can find him on Facebook where he posts at least once a day. Either a teaser or an update on what is going on; Patreon where I release a chapter-a-month for my $1 and above patrons out of the sci-fi novel I am working on; and of course Amazon (US Amazon) and Goodreads.

Wylie Petford suffers extreme tragedy, only to discover that she holds great purpose.
The Dracosinum, a magical device with a key to her heritage, will unlock her future while leaving her love Lord Adrian in the past.
The loss of her closest friendship, the taking over of her home and town by Villainous Lord Ukridge…. is there no good to come from her life?
Now, with the odds against her, she has one chance to become who she is meant to be, escape her shackles and defeat the Lord Jameston.
19th Century London has seen nothing like this – The Lady Dragon is ready to sweep you up in a steampunk world full of corsets, steam-powered gadgets, and dastardly villains.

Welcome back everyone, and welcome back Angelique. Angelique has returned to let us visit with one of her friends.  Angelique, who did you bring with you today for a visit?

Someone quite interesting… he’s visiting from London currently, though he said he has to fly back shortly.

Want to introduce him to us? I’ll try not to keep him too long.

Quincy the dragon, Wylie etfords ‘conscience’ so to speak from my new book The Dragon Lady.

Welcome Quincy. Thank you for letting Angelique coax you over to this side of the pond for a visit.

Quincy, say hello.



Hmph… I’d much rather be curled up in my Dracosinum with a hot cup of tea. Alas, this woman hasn’t stopped her incessant ranting since my arrival.

It’s Quincy please do this, and Quincy tell me more about the Dragaleths… A dragon can’t get an ounce of peace.

Uh, oh. That’s not good. What do you enjoy doing when you’re at home?

If by home, you mean my Dracosinum… I enjoy watching the Dragaleths attempt to balance the good and evil of this completely chaotic world. Though a long soak in a thimble full of warm oil is quite relaxing on the brass joints.

I also enjoy telling Wylie what to do, poor naive girl hasn’t a clue what she has gotten herself into.

Were you born in a Dracosinum?

One could say that, you see… long ago… when evil was great in the world it hurt the gods so deeply that they cried real tears. Those tears fell to the Earth creating one pure white dragon, the Teselym, and one black as night dragon, the Siapheg.

It became clear that though the Siapheg figured out its purpose quite quickly.. the Teselym had a hard time knowing what good to do to balance the Siapheg.

Thus, I was born.. sent here in the Dracosinum to aid the Teselym in its quest to distinguish good against evil.

That sounds ominous. Are Siapheg and Teselym your parents, then?

Hmmm… no… more like annoyances and more trouble than they are worth. One might say the gods are my parents…

Can’t fault the Teselym and the Siapheg for what they do, just living out their purpose really… but their human side really can mess things up.

You look like a dragon, so I may be interpreting this wrong… Are the Teselym and Siapheg dragons as well, or are you the only one?

I am very much a dragon, full blooded as they come. The Teselym and Siapheg however… they are dragons during the night time hours only. During the day, they inhibit their human hosts and go about like normal everyday folk.

If you ask me, there had to be a better way to do it, the whole human body on the bed at night, while its essence takes dragon form and does its duties at night, is troublesome. Not just for me, but for the human hosts as well.

So I wasn’t completely off – just half way. ::Grins:: Sounds like it. Since you say they cause you trouble, would you call them your enemies?

Not at all. the only enemies they really have, are each other. In fact, the Teselym is my personal responsibility. I act as a sort of guide… a moral compass to help the Teselym decide which acts of good are more important, and to help the Teselym refrain from acts of evil that would come naturally to their human side. This time around, the Wylie Petford girl is my current Teselym, and can that blasted girl get on my nerves.Stubborn and demanding! Not at all like her amiable father, with which I was very good friends with.

Do you have any allies to help you out when your Teselym gets out of hand?

Well… I suppose the gods could do right away with them… but I’ve never had any real issues.. besides the occasional smart mouthed young woman.. which brings me to my current dilemma. Though, I have to say… she is brave in her own right… she has made some difficult decisions as of late, that I don’t know any other Teselym could have made. Full marks for bravery for that one.

One last question, then I’ll let you head back home. If you could have anything in the world, what would you choose?

A way to rid the world of its evil. I have seen too much of it over the centuries.. I suppose it is good that I am not human or all of that would way too heavily on me.

Right, right… back to my Dracosinum for me… until the Dragon hour is over.

I’ll agree with you about getting rid of evil – though there is also the counter argument: If there is no evil, there is not good. Quincy, thank you for coming over to visit. Feel free to drop by any time for a chat (or to get away from your stubborn friend for a bit.)

Thank you, pleasure to make your acquaintance… and if you do happen to hear the flutter of dragon wings outside your window. Rest assured that all is right in the world, and we are all doing our job.

I’ll remember that, though the cats may not agree.

Angelique, before I wrap up here, any last words?

Ha ha ha ha, fascinating creature isn’t he? He’s currently no bigger than the size of my thumb, but I have seen him grow to be larger than I am. Anyway, thank you so much for having us both… it was a pleasure as always. If you want to get to know Quincy more, he will be starring in The Dragon Lady, releasing May 1, 2017.

I look forward to it. Definitely going to have to devou…. erm… investigate this story!

It was a pleasure having you over again. Thank you so much for returning, and convincing Quincy to come with you.

ha ha ha ha!! Thank you so much!! He’s really a gentleman of a dragon, and he’s been the perfect house guest.

Its been great talking to you!

If you enjoyed the interview, and would like to read more about Quincy, head on over to Amazon Here and pick up a copy of Dragon Lady.

Why are strangers suddenly appearing in a sleepy North Carolina town asking about Lee Harvey Oswald? What do they have to do with widow Olivia Roberts? Why is her neighbor and friend Bill Horton so dead set against her traveling to Dallas, Texas? When she journeys from her North Carolina home to Dallas in search of answers to questions from November 22, 1963 she learns more than she ever expected. “View from the Sixth Floor: An Oswald Tale” is a story of “what-ifs”? What if the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963 was a conspiracy? What if accused assassin Lee Harvey Oswald was innocent? What if someone knew the truth and could prove it? What if someone you trusted turned out to be hiding a secret so big it could change history? This is a tale of friendship, love, political intrigue, and murder.

Today we are welcoming Elizabeth back, and she has brought with her Olivia Roberts.  Welcome ladies, I’m excited you could make it in today.

Olivia, may can you share a little about yourself?

I was born outside of Asheville North Carolina and I’m a good person who got caught up in a bad situation.My parents were very conventional. Conservative, church going folks, my father served in the Army before marrying my mother who wanted to be a wife and mother. They wanted my life to be better and insisted I go to college. They were not happy when I began to date my late husband because he had a bad boy reputation.I grew up in a very small and close knit community. I married my high school sweetheart. I was a high school cheerleader. I did Girl Scouts and 4-H and Future Homemakers of America. Everything was as American as apple pie.

Did your personality help you develop how you handle pressure?

I was a teacher before I retired.Well, I’ve always seen myself as conservative. I was a wife and mother and now a grandmother. Recently I’ve found myself to be stronger than I ever imagined and I have a hotter temper than I thought.In the past I would have said no. I had a very conventional life. Now I can handle pressure. If someone tries to make me do something against my wishes I will stick to my guns. I’m a lot tougher than I ever believed.

I’m sure being in your position has brought you a lot of unwanted attention, Olivia.  Do you have anyone who you turn to as a friend or ally?

Sometimes you have to trust people even when you don’t know them well. I have learned to follow my gut instinct. I trust my neighbor Bill, my friend Judy, and of course my sons. I have also come to trust new friends, Mike and Shelli. (Laughing) I trust my hairdresser.

Do you consider any single person an enemy, or is the definition applied to larger group?

I think people who lie to protect themselves when they have done something wrong need to be punished. I’m not very happy with my government or for that matter any government these days. We are supposed to be a government of the people but it isn’t that way anymore.

Would you like to see anything changed in the way things are done?

I would like to see the government and people in the government forced to come clean on crimes that have been covered up. I would like to see true government transparency.

How do you handle complements and insults from friends and enemies?

If an enemy complements me, I’d say, “Thank you but I am not some dumb old lady. I know you are trying to get over on me and it will not work.”If a friend insults me, I tend to respond with, “Why would you say that? What have I done to make you feel that way?”

If you could change anything about yourself, or become any creature, what would you choose?

Oh I would love to be a bird. I think it would be wonderful to fly away, high above the clouds and feel that freedom.I’d also like to be taller and I’d like to learn how to physically defend myself.

Speaking of dreams and wishes, do you have a special someone that you wish for?

Absolutely. I have been blessed to find my soulmate even this late in my life. But I prefer not to talk too much about Bill.There is only one man I would ever consider marrying now.

Do you have a dark secret you can share?

Hmm, I fell in love with my best friend and his secret is my biggest secret.

What about fears?  Any big ones lurking in the closet?

My greatest fear is being caught and separated from my loved ones.

One last question to end on a positive note.  What is your biggest accomplishment?

I’m very proud of my children especially my son Jesse. I am proud of my friend Bill who is the bravest person I know.

Thank you Olivia.  I has been an honor talking with you today.

Elizabeth, thank you so much for bringing Olivia with you today.  It has been fun, getting to know her a little bit better.

If you want to read more of Olivia’s story, you can find her story on Amazon where you can pick up your copy today.  You can learn more about Elizabeth Horton-Newton on her blog, Facebook, or Amazon. 

Until next time, happy reading!