Author: Ellwyn

I live with my loving husband, two children and dog in Philadelphia, PA. I discovered my passion for writing in second grade when I had to write a book report for school. I was so excited to write the report, until my mother told me that I had to write about someone else's book and not my own story. I became indignant and decided that once I finished the book report I would most certainly write my own original story. I have been writing ever since! My self-published book Chris Kringle's Cops was a Finalist in The Reader's Favorite Book Contest for 2016. I am so happy to share this story with you.  My picture book Kamyla Chung and the Creepy Crawlies was given a 5 Star rating by Reader's Favorite Book Reviews in 2017.

Vandom’s Journey Release Tour

1925. His dream is to build a horse ranch in the Poconos. Her dream is him. God’s plan is bigger than them both. 

Vadom’s Journey 

The Heart’s Journey Series Book 2 

By Sara J. Walker 

Genre: Sweet Historical Romance 

This is a sweet, Christian Historical Romance set in the same world as my characters in The Grumpy Guardian’s Redemption.

1925. His dream is to build a horse ranch in the Poconos. Her dream is him. God’s plan is bigger than them both.

Pennsylvania, 1925

Vadom Stancher travels to the Poconos with only his extraordinary gift for working with horses and a dream of owning his own ranch.

He finds his chance—and his heart finds the daughter of a wealthy rancher. But when tragedy strikes, his grief leads him down a path of poor choices that will echo through years to come.

Amanda Devoe, the preacher’s daughter, sees past Vadom’s wounded spirit. One night of comfort becomes a secret she’ll carry alone to Georgia, where she builds a new life as a schoolteacher. But some secrets can’t stay hidden forever.

With God’s guidance, can two hearts find their way back to each other? Or will the past keep them forever apart?

Vadom’s Journey is a tale of second chances and the healing power of God’s perfect timing—perfect for readers who enjoy historical romance with themes of faith and forgiveness.

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Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DPY1JQ74

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/vadoms-journey/id6739185491

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Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1660501

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Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/vadom-s-journey-the-heart-s-journey-series-book-2-by-sara-j-walker

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222412880-vadom-s-journey

The Grumpy Guardian’s Redemption

The Heart’s Journey Book 1 

The Grumpy Guardian’s Redemption, a sweet, historical Christian romance

This is a heartwarming Christian tale of redemption and love that touches the souls of two lonely people in the mountains of 1920s Tennessee.

Set in the mountains of Tennessee in 1925, Liam McCord treasures his solitary existence until a chance encounter disrupts his peace. When he discovers a battered young woman near his cabin, he’s compelled to shelter her until help arrives. As a solitary fifty-two-year-old man, he can’t care for her alone, so he enlists the help of a local spinster.

Enter Millie Norton, a resilient woman with a heart untouched by love. She can see beyond the surface and realizes the patient in the house is not the only person needing care. Together, Liam and Millie embark on a journey of shared challenges as they care for the woman and work a change in their community. Somewhere along the way, the English recluse and the mountain spinster forge an unexpected bond of love.

This heartwarming Christian story of redemption, healing, and the transformative power of love will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

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Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CW19SR6X

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-grumpy-guardians-redemption/id6479612899

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-grumpy-guardians-redemption-sara-j-walker/1145088533?ean=2940179947189

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-grumpy-guardian-s-redemption

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1538244

Books2Read: https://books2read.com/u/bPDw2z

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/the-grumpy-guardian-s-redemption-heart-s-journey-1-by-sara-j-walker

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/209057361-the-grumpy-guardian-s-redemption

Excerpt: Vandom’s Journey

“What’s going on?”

“It’s Lightning,” Shorty said, shifting so Vadom could see inside the stall. “This is her first foal, and it don’t look good. Walker isn’t happy.”

Donnel raised his voice. “Do you want me to ride for the veterinarian? I hear tell they have one in Sommerville.”

Walker shook his head. “That’s twenty-five miles away. This will be over before you get back. One way or another.”

The mare groaned in agony and tried to wallow in the straw, but Petey lay across her neck, holding her on her side. Walker had discarded his jacket and had his shirt sleeves rolled up. 

Lightning moaned and thrashed. 

Vadom’s heart clenched in sympathy for the mare. “Mr. Walker,” he said softly.

“Don’t bother me unless you can help,” Walker snapped.

“I can.”

Five sets of eyes turned to stare at him. 

Walker pointed at Vadom. “Tell me what you can do.”

Vadom swallowed hard. He didn’t want to expose his talent, because he couldn’t explain what he could do with horses. He could be labeled a heathen. “My father was a horse master on the estate we served in London. He taught me a great deal, and I helped with many foalings.”

“We should get the boy’s father,” Petey said from where he crouched over the mare.

“No time.” Walker motioned for Vadom to enter the stall. “Her name is Lightning. I would choose her over the foal if it comes to that.”

“Shorty said it’s her first?” Vadom asked as he assessed the situation. 

“Yes. By Duke, my Palomino stallion.”

“I haven’t met Duke,” Vadom said, not realizing that sounded odd. 

The mare groaned, and he felt her pain to his bones. “You poor girl,” he murmured, pressing his hands to her cheeks as he attempted to quell her panic and help her find calm. The pain was another issue.

“What do you need?” Mr. Walker asked.

Vadom never took his eyes away from the mare’s wide gaze. “Does your wife have any willow bark? It would be good to dull the pain.”

“She does. I’ll get it.” Walker rushed from the barn to retrieve the painkiller.

“Shorty, will you do something for me?” Vadom asked.

“Sure thing.”

“Boil some water for the willow bark and steep a small amount. Put a generous amount of sugar in the water and bring it to me. She’ll take it better if sweetened, and she could use the energy,” Vadom instructed. “Petey, I need you to move to the other side and lean forward on her neck so I can reach her belly.”

“Why do you need to do that?” Donnel asked.

Vadom finally felt he had a connection with the mare and could look away from her eyes. He glanced at Donnel. “I will palpitate her side to see how the foal is positioned. I’ll show you.” Lightning was still in terrible pain but breathing easier. The willow bark would help if he could get her to take some of it.

Petey shifted above her, keeping pressure on her neck so she wouldn’t stand, and Vadom ran his hands over her belly, maintaining a steady stream of low whispers all the while, making sure she could hear him.

“She wants to stand,” Petey said, “but the pains were so bad her knees gave out the last time. She don’t need to be fallin’.” 

Vadom nodded as he pressed on her belly with gentle fingers. The life inside was … two. “Twins,” he said aloud.

“Now, how would you know that?” Jacob asked, his voice thick with skepticism.

Vadom thought fast. “Hooves,” he quickly offered. He couldn’t tell them he knew any other way. “I feel more than four hooves.”

Giveaway 

$10 Amazon 

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

https://bit.ly/VadomsJourneyTour

About the Author

Longtime puppeteer and dramatic story teller, Sara loves both the spoken and the written word. She has two grown children and resides with their husband of 57 years in a small Georgia town.

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Author Links

Website: https://sarajwalker.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069583929745

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Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Sara-Walker/author/B08FCWKJPD

Wind From The Abyss Book Tour

Estri’s life is shattered. Her name, her memories, her past—gone. Pulled into a world of cosmic intrigue and divine manipulation, she must navigate a realm where gods test her resolve. 

Wind From the Abyss 

The Silistra Quartet Book 3 

By Janet Morris 

Genre: Dystopian SciFi Fantasy Adventure 

Dystopia. Novel series #2 of 4. Fantasy. Science fiction. Allegory. Political.

Wind from the Abyss is the third volume in Janet Morris’ classic Silistra Quartet, continuing one woman’s quest for self-realization in a distant tomorrow.

Aristocrat. Outcast. Picara. Slave. Ruler ….

She is descended from the masters of the universe. To hold her he challenges the gods themselves.

Praise for Janet Morris’ Silistra Quartet: 

“The amazing and erotic adventures of the most beautiful courtesan in tomorrow’s universe.” — Fred Pohl

“Engrossing characters in a marvelous adventure.” — Charles N. Brown, Locus Magazine.

The best single example of prostitution used in fantasy is Janet Morris’ Silsitra series.” — Anne K. Kahler, The Picara: From Hera to Fantasy Heroine.

This Perseid Press Author’s Cut Edition is revised and expanded by the author and presented in a format designed to enhance your reading experience with larger, easy-to-read print, more generous margins, and covers designed for these premium editions.

**On Sale for Only $2.99!**

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Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Wind-Abyss-Silistra-Quartet-Book-ebook/dp/B01M5HSQX2

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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32825168-wind-from-the-abyss

**Don’t miss the rest of the Silistra Quartet!**

Find them on Amazon!

Excerpt

Since, at the beginning of this tale, I did not recollect myself nor retain even the slightest glimmer of such understanding as would have led me to an awareness of the significance of the various occurrences that transpired at the Lake of Horns then, I am adding this preface, though it was no part of my initial conception, that the meaningfulness of the events described by “Khys’ Estri” (as I have come to think of the shadow-self I was while the dharen held my skills and memory in abeyance) not be withheld from you as they were from me.

I knew myself not: I was Estri because the girl Carth supposedly found wandering in the forest stripped of comprehension and identity chose that name.

There, perhaps, lies the greatest irony of all, that I named myself anew after Estri Hadrath diet Estrazi, who in reality I had once been.

And perhaps it is not irony at all, but an expression of Khys’ humor, an implicit dissertation by him who structured my experiences, my very thoughts, for nearly two years, until his audacity drove him to bring together once more Sereth crill Tyris, past-Slayer, then the outlawed Ebvrasea, then arrar to the dharen himself; Chayin rendi Inekte, cahndor of Nemar, co-cahndor of the Taken Lands, chosen so of Tar-Kesa, and at that time Khys’ puppet-vassal; and myself, former Well-Keepress, tiask of Nemar, and lastly becoming the chaldless outlaw who had come to judgment and endured ongoing retribution at the dharen’s hands.

To test his hesting, his power over owkahen, the time-coming-to-be, did Khys put us together, all three, in his Day-Keeper’s city — and from that moment onward, the Weathers of Life became fixed: siphoned into a singular future; sealed tight as a dead god in his mausoleum, whose every move brought him closer to the sum total, obliteration. So did the dharen Khys bespeak it, himself …

I. In Mourning for the Unrecollected

The hulion hovered, wings aflap, at the window, butting its black wedge of a head against the pane. Its yellow eyes glowed cruelly, slit-pupiled. Its white fangs, gleaming, were each as long as my forearm.

I screamed. Its tufted ears, flat against its head, twitched. Again and again, toothed mouth open wide, it battered at the window, roaring. Once more I screamed and ran stumbling to the far wall of my prison.

I pounded upon the locked doors with my fists, pressing myself against the wood. Sobbing, I turned to face it. The beast’s ears flickered at the sound. Those jaws, which could have snapped me in half, closed. It cocked its head.

I trembled, caught in its gaze. I could retreat no farther. I sank to my knees, moaning, against the door frame.

The beast gave one final snort. Those wings, with a spread thrice the length of a tall man, flapped decisively, and it was gone.

When the hulion was no more than a speck in the greening sky, I rose clumsily, shaking, to collect the papers I had strewn across the mat in my terror.

They were the arrar Carth’s papers, those he had forgotten in his haste to answer his returning master’s summons.

I knelt upon my hands and knees on the silvery pile, that I might gather the pages and replace them in the tas-sueded folder before Carth returned.

Foolish, I thought to myself, that I had so feared the hulion. It could not have gotten in.

I could not get out: It could not get in. Once I had thrown a chair at that impervious clarity. The chair had splintered. With one stout thala leg, as thick as my arm, had I battered upon that window.

All I had accomplished was the transformation of chair into kindling. The hulion, I chided myself, could have fared no better.

Hulions, upon occasion, have been known to eat man-flesh. Hulions, furred and winged, fanged and clawed, are the servants of the dharen who rules Silistra.

I had had no need to fear. Yet, I thought as I gathered the arrar Carth’s scattered papers, hulions are fearsome.

Perhaps if I had been able, as others are, to hear its mind’s intent, I would have felt differently. My fingers, numb and trembling, fumbled for the delicate sheets.

One in particular caught my eye. It was in Carth’s precise hand and headed: “Pre-assessment Monitoring of the Arrar Sereth. Enar Fourth Second, 25,697.”

I had met, once, the arrar Sereth. Upon my birthday, Macara fourth seventh, in the year ’696 had I met him, that night my child had been conceived.

I had read of his exploits. He frightened me, killer of killers, enforcer for the dharen, he who wore the arrar: chald of the messenger. Sereth, scarred and lean and taut like some carnivore, who had loved the Keepress Estri, my namesake, and with her brought great change to Silistra in the pass Amarsa, 25,695 — yes, I had met him.

About the Author

Best selling author Janet Morris began writing in 1976 and has since published more than 30 novels, many co-authored with her husband Chris Morris or others.

She has contributed short fiction to the shared universe fantasy series Thieves World, in which she created the Sacred Band of Stepsons, a mythical unit of ancient fighters modeled on the Sacred Band of Thebes.

She created, orchestrated, and edited the Bangsian fantasy series Heroes in Hell, writing stories for the series as well as co-writing the related novel, The Little Helliad, with Chris Morris.

She wrote the bestselling Silistra Quartet in the 1970s, including High Couch of Silistra, The Golden Sword, Wind from the Abyss, and The Carnelian Throne.

This quartet had more than four million copies in Bantam print alone, and was translated into German, French, Italian, Russian and other languages. In the 1980s, Baen Books released a second edition of this landmark series.

The third edition is the Author’s Cut edition, newly revised by the author for Perseid Press. Most of her fiction work has been in the fantasy and science fiction genres, although she has also written historical and other novels.

Morris has written, contributed to, or edited several book-length works of non-fiction, as well as papers and articles on nonlethal weapons, developmental military technology and other defense and national security topics.

Janet says: ‘People often ask what book to read first. I recommend “I, the Sun” if you like ancient history; “The Sacred Band,” a novel, if you like heroic fantasy; “Lawyers in Hell” if you like historical fantasy set in hell; “Outpassage” if you like hard science fiction; “High Couch of Silistra” if you like far-future dystopian or philosophical novels.

I am most enthusiastic about the definitive Perseid Press Author’s Cut editions, which I revised and expanded.’

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Author Links

Website: https://theperseidpress.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PerseidPublishing

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Perseid_Press

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A Buckeye Falls Christmas Book Tour

Will it be a Christmas to remember, or will their holiday get plowed away?

A Buckeye Falls Christmas 

A Buckeye Falls Novel 

by Libby Kay 

Genre: Contemporary Holiday Romance 

On the first day of Christmas, Buckeye Falls gave to me…

A snow storm…

Uninvited dinner guests…

A Christmas pageant…

And a friends’ reunion dinner to warm your heart.

It’s been ten years since five couples found love in this charming small Ohio town. Families and careers have grown, but the love remains the same.

Max is hosting Christmas at the diner, a final sendoff before the beloved hangout gets a facelift. But the risk of a snow storm and a few uninvited guests threaten everyone’s plans. Will it be a Christmas to remember, or will their holiday get plowed away?

Revisit your favorite couples in this holiday novella, which includes favorite recipes from the series. Warning: this story will make you hungry and may cause uncontrollable swoons.

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Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJWGVH12

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/a-buckeye-falls-christmas/id6736843215

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-buckeye-falls-christmas-libby-kay/1146409657?ean=2940185714966

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-buckeye-falls-christmas

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/a-buckeye-falls-christmas-by-libby-kay

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220327184-a-buckeye-falls-christmas

Excerpt

Ginny kissed Max’s cheek, tasting his tears on her lips. “Max, honey. This rarely happens. C’mon, Henry’s going to be the lead in the Christmas pageant. He’s a tough kid, just like his father.” She punctuated her statement with another kiss.

Max coughed and wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. “Oh yeah, I’m a real macho man.” 

“Yeah, because you know they’re my type.” Ginny theatrically rolled her eyes. 

“I shudder to think of what your type is,” Max said, gesturing at his current state. His eyes were red, he was covered in dirt and dog kibble, and he probably could stand another few hours of sleep. 

Ginny leaned back, tapping her chin. “Well, let’s see. I like a man who can take care of me and my children. Someone who can cook, like really well. And it would be nice if he was a small business owner and took care of my father like his own. Oh, and if he’s also best friends with my best friends, that would be perfect.” Ginny huffed and pulled herself to her feet. “Looks like that’s a pretty tall order.” 

Max snatched Ginny’s hand and pulled her onto his lap. “Okay, Mrs. Sanchez. Point made.” He kissed his wife, relishing in the fact they were still together after all these years. Life wasn’t always perfect, but it was from where he sat. “I need to get to the diner and start working on the menu for Christmas.” 

Ginny kissed him one more time before pulling back. “And I’m needed in the office.” 

“Love you, Gin.” 

“Love you more.”

Giveaway

Giveaway 

$25 Amazon 

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

https://bit.ly/BuckeyeFallsChristmasTour

About The Author

Libby Kay lives in the city in the heart of the Midwest with her husband. When she’s not writing, Libby loves reading romance novels of any kind. Stories of people falling in love nourish her soul.

Contemporary or Regency, sweet or hot, as long as there is a happily ever after—she’s in love!

When not surrounded by books, Libby can be found baking in her kitchen, binging true crime shows, or on the road with her husband, traveling as far as their bank account will allow.

Libby cohosts the Romance Roundup podcast with Liz Donatelli on the Reader Seeks Romance Channel where they recommend romance books and interview authors, influencers, and publishers. Check it out for your weekly dose of romance!

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Author Links

Website: https://www.libbykayauthor.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LibbyKayAuthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libbykayauthor

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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Libby-Kay/e/B07VGY8SCH

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19377638.Libby_Kay

The Life & Times of Sherlock Holmes Book Tour

A must-read for Sherlockians, history enthusiasts, and anyone eager to uncover the hidden layers of Victorian England.

The Life and Times of Sherlock Holmes 

Essays on Victorian England Book V 

by Liese Sherwood-Fabre

Genre: Nonfiction History, Literary Criticism 

Rediscover Victorian England’s forgotten history and culture.

Volume V of The Life and Times of Sherlock Holmes explores the cultural, scientific, and historical allusions found throughout Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective stories.

This collection of essays unpacks twenty-four topics mentioned in the original mysteries, from everyday details like hats and plumbing to complex issues such as international spying, the binomial theorem, and relations with Russia.

Through such insights, readers gain a deeper understanding of the Victorian world in which Holmes operated.

Other essays explore both the familiar and the obscure, touching on subjects like the KKK’s presence in England, the significance of whaling, and legal concepts like insanity and blackmail.

Unique cultural topics—such as the role of curry in the British Empire, the rise of bohemianism, and the Victorian obsession with rejuvenation through animal hormones—reveal the rich complexity of the era.

The collection also features a bonus essay on Sarah Cushing from The Adventure of the Cardboard Box, offering fresh insight into one of the most sinister characters in the Canon.

Whether examining automata, wax figures, or the legal definitions of murder and suicide, The Life and Times of Sherlock Holmes provides a compelling lens through which readers gain a deeper understanding of the historical and social backdrop of the Holmes mysteries.

A must-read for Sherlockians, history enthusiasts, and anyone eager to uncover the hidden layers of Victorian England.

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Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKMWQFW3

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-life-and-times-of-sherlock-holmes/id6737251368

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-life-and-times-of-sherlock-holmes-volume-5-liese-sherwood-fabre/1146455207?ean=2940186119128

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-life-and-times-of-sherlock-holmes-7

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Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/the-life-and-times-of-sherlock-holmes-the-fifth-compelling-collection-of-essays-examining-the-familiar-and-the-obscure-in-sir-arthur-conan-doyle-s-original-essays-on-victorian-england-book-5-by-liese-sherwood-fabre

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220690557-the-life-and-times-of-sherlock-holmes

Excerpt

The Sinister Side of Insurance

In The Sign of the Four, Holmes tells Watson that one should not be fooled by outward qualities.

As an example, he states, “The most winning woman I ever knew was hanged for poisoning three little children for their insurance money.” Insurance policies were quite popular in Victorian times, and, sadly, more than one insured person met their end under suspicious circumstances.

The sudden inheritance of a sum sometimes equivalent to a working man’s annual salary was a temptation some couldn’t resist. Two sisters went so far as to recruit other women in a sort of club to collect insurance benefits.

Ancient Romans were the first to create life insurance policies in the form of burial clubs. Burial was necessary because if the person wasn’t interred correctly, they were doomed to an afterlife as an unhappy ghost.

These burials, however, cost money, and Caius Marius organized his troops into clubs that pledged to pool resources to cover the cost of these rituals. Over time, the clubs included a sum of money provided to any of the deceased’s survivors.

This practice appeared again in the 1500s in London when Richard Martin bought a policy underwritten by 16 others for a man named William Gibbons. Martin collected £4800 for the premium of £384. This practice continued for the next 200 years until outlawed in 1774. 

By 1700, life insurance shifted from speculation on a particular person’s death to that of tontines. In this arrangement, individuals would pay each year into a common account, and those surviving until the end of the year would receive a payout based on the number surviving.

Over time, these groups would even invest funds to increase the pool. The Amicable Society for a Perpetual Assurance Office used this concept of a tontine to establish the first recognized life insurance company.

Founded by William Talbot, the Bishop of Oxford, and Sir Thomas Allen, 2nd Baronet, in 1706, the society began with 2000 members who paid a fixed amount per year for one to three shares. At the end of the year, the widows and children of any of the members who passed during the year received the deceased member’s portion.

Unfortunately, life insurance companies and practices faced little to no regulation on who could be insured. Fraud abounded in the industry with some being covered under numerous policies, and some of those insured (particularly children) murdered for the benefits.

While actual figures cannot be calculated, Renee Noffsinger examined reported homicide cases to estimate the vulnerability of children under 5 was at least 40 times greater than that for older children.

Master of the Art of Detection

A Collection of Sherlock Holmes Short Stories 

By Liese Sherwood-Fabre

Genre: Mystery 

Decipher. Deduce. Deliver.

Sherlock Holmes, the most cerebral of detectives, finds his deductive powers put to the test in this intriguing collection of cases.

Each adventure presents a web of secrets, clues, and deceptions. Only his highly honed observational skills lead him to the truth.

In a locked-room murder, did the victim succumb to “The Curse of Kisin?” And how had the daughter of Squire Northridge disappeared from her own locked bedroom?

Can Holmes, an ocean away, determine if a missing treasure hunter ran off with Jean Lafitte’s fabled buried plunder? The disappearance of a beloved dog is an adventure filled with whimsy and humor, as are the return of Lady Frances Carfax and the howling dog of Baker Street.

Holmes’ unrivaled deductive powers rise to the test with each case. He shines as the consummate master of the art of detection and will captivate from beginning to end.

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Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Master-Art-Detection-Sherlock-Collection-ebook/dp/B0CW1J4DWB

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/master-of-the-art-of-detection/id6504698982

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/master-of-the-art-of-detection-liese-sherwood-fabre/1145861548?ean=2940185617205

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/master-of-the-art-of-dectection

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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215146483-master-of-the-art-of-detection

Excerpt from “The Adventure of Lafitte’s Missing Treasure”

In

Master of the Art of Detection

Sherlock Holmes receives a package with the following letter inside:

“My husband has always considered himself something of a historian but has limited himself to treasure hunting. He has become obsessed with the pirate Jean Lafitte, a privateer who operated first out of New Orleans and later, Galveston.

Talk of Lafitte’s missing treasure has been a matter of speculation for more than seventy years. The pirate established a base on Galveston Island in 1817 but was forced to leave in 1820 after attacking an American merchant vessel.

“Recently, a Mr. James Farthington approached my husband, stating he had found a letter written to one of Lafitte’s acquaintances detailing the location of a treasure buried on the island.

As proof, Lafitte included this coin for the friend. My husband agreed to finance the search in return for half the find.

“A week ago, George and Farthington set off for the island. There have been no storms or other occurrences that would explain his ship’s disappearance, and I, therefore, fear the worst.

Someone has heard of this discovery, and the expedition has fallen into nefarious hands and my husband is in grave peril.

“Given the distance, by the time you get this letter, another week will likely have passed. Please respond by telegram as soon as possible to let me know if you have any advice on how I might find George and the others.”

When I turned to the other piece of paper, I found the thin paper held a map. “It looks as if she included a copy of the directions Farthington shared with her husband.”

Holmes lowered the coin and returned to the desk, where he held out his hand. I placed the map into it, and he held it up to the light. “A very lightweight paper used for tracing.

She must have traced the original map to share a copy with me.” He faced me. “It seems we have a mystery on our hands, Watson. And one that may lead us to uncover the lost treasure of Jean Lafitte.” 

My interest was piqued. “Lost treasure? Sounds like something from a yellowback novel.”

Holmes waved a hand dismissively. “It is not a fairy tale, Watson. Jean Lafitte was a real pirate, and there have always been rumors of a treasure buried somewhere on Galveston Island. Many have searched for it over the years, but none have discovered its whereabouts.”

“So, you believe that this Farthington fellow may have discovered the location of the treasure, and now someone is after it and them?”

“It is a possibility, Watson. And one that we cannot ignore.”

“Then what do we do?”

“Send off some telegrams.”

About The Author

About the Author 

Liese Sherwood-Fabre is an award-winning author known for her meticulously researched works of historical fiction and mystery.

With a background in social sciences, she brings a unique depth to her characters and settings, particularly in her acclaimed series The Life and Times of Sherlock Holmes, which explores Victorian England through the lens of the famous detective’s world.

Her essays delve into the cultural and historical intricacies of the era, uncovering hidden details that enhance her stories’ authenticity.

Her fiction weaves real historical events and social insights into suspenseful plots, creating immersive narratives that captivate fans of both history and mystery. 

An avid traveler and lifelong scholar, Dr. Sherwood-Fabre combines curiosity and expertise to craft stories that transport readers to fascinating past worlds filled with intrigue and insight.

Website * Facebook * Instagram * TikTok* Bluesky * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

Author Links

Website: https://www.liesesherwoodfabre.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liese.sherwoodfabre

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liesesf/

Tiktok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@liesesherwoodfabre

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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Liese-Sherwood-Fabre/author/B00810INE6

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5758587.Liese_Sherwood_Fabre

Infiniflash Fiction New Release

RELEASE DAY- INFINIFLASH FICTION VOLUME ONE!

Have You Ever wondered…

What a date between Vex and Azure would look like?

How Lucien found Ebonara?

What Thane thought in her final moments as a mortal?

What happens at a Mer funeral?

What the cats in the series are really plotting?

Explore the world of Queens of Fantasy, its characters, magic, and history in more ways than ever before in this collection of over thirty-five flash fictions from author Kristy Nicolle.

It is advised you enjoy this book after reading the core Queens Of Fantasy Saga titles to avoid spoilers.

books2read.com/infiniflashfiction

About The Author

Award-winning author of over a million published words, I’m currently working on a supersized series called The Kristy Nicolle Fantasy Infiniverse.

This enormous project captures an ever-growing magical universe that will span up to and beyond seventy published works where characters from across multiple storylines and dimensions can collide in the most magical and unexpected ways possible.

Why is the Infiniverse exciting for you as a reader?

When I was a kid, I loved stories. I still do, with some of my favourites being Harry Potter (Of Course), The Hunger Games, Percy Jackson, and Divergent. One of the things all these series have in common is that they construct entire worlds for the reader.

So, now it’s my turn to give my readers what i always craved.

What did I want, you ask?
I always wanted more.
More backstories, more insight, more details that made the world real. I wanted the story to go on forever, but with how publishing has worked for so long, there was always a limit to how much an author could do.

That limit is gone now, what with self-publishing putting the control completely in my hands, and it is my intention to create an ever-expanding fantasy universe where the reader gets a say in what stories are told, and which moments are further explored and elaborated.

Imagine if you could tell J.K Rowling which character’s backstory you wanted most, and then a few months later she actually gave it to you. Imagine if you could decide how much or how little of a fantasy world you explored, along with the author?

Well, that’s what I’m offering. In this new age of self-publishing, my options are pretty much infinite, which means that so are yours.

Ready to dive into my fantasy infiniverse that could span as much as one hundred stories?

Let’s see how rich, how large it can grow, and just how much readers can contribute to shaping my fantasy Infiniverse into somewhere they never want to leave.

After all, It was built with no-one but you, the reader for whom one story, one series, or one point of view is never enough, in mind.

Pooneh Sadeghi Guest Post

All About You: 

Can you, for those who don’t know you already, tell something about yourself and how you became an author?

Like many authors I am a voracious reader. I learned the alphabet at age 4, started reading at age 5 and picked up my first Agatha Christie Mystery in 3rd grade—I knew I’d be an author since childhood. I was always thinking of stories and writing them down in my diary.

What is something unique/quirky about you?

Prior to starting a book, I live with my characters for several weeks. We talk and I get to know them to the point I’d know how they’d dress, what food they would order in a restaurant or how they would react in a situation.

I also have many interesting plot discussions with my two dogs (golden doodles). They’re great listeners.

Tell us something really interesting that’s happened to you!

I don’t know if it’s interesting but it was life changing. I was 9 years old when a revolution took place in my country.

I’ve lived in total oppression and then experienced the freedom of first world countries, added to that I’ve lived in war and all that—well, it changes one’s perspective.

You tend to really value what others take for granted and not pay attention to topics that many media sites focus on.

What are some of your pet peeves?

People who use books for decoration but never read them! People who mistreat books (really not acceptable!)

Where were you born/grew up at?

Born in Tehran, Iran, Raised in many countries across Europe and in the USA. This was due to my father’s job.

If you knew you’d die tomorrow, how would you spend your last day? 

1-I’d cook a delicious meal for my family and prior to eating it I’d take a lot of food to a shelter and we’d dance and laugh and play games.

Who is your hero and why?

Gosh there are many but for me Rumi, Ghandi, anyone who tries to be kind to others.

What kind of world ruler would you be?

One who ensures every human being is treated fairly and that all humans have the same rights—I’d also have a wicked sense of humor, maybe play tricks on my government/cabinet members….

What are you passionate about these days?

Writing, writing, writing, reading but also trying to do one good thing a day to help make the world a better place.

What do you do to unwind and relax?

Walk, swim, and read! And in no particular order.

How to find time to write as a parent?

I make time to write a 1,000 words a day.

Describe yourself in 5 words or less!

Mom-booklover-Author-Tree hugger

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

For as long as I can remember I knew I wanted to write.

Do you have a favorite movie?

Ohhh several: “oh goodness too many—I always find myself watching the BBC Agatha Christie Series with David Suchet…..so much fun and Midnight in Paris! 

Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?

Really all of them because they are visual as I write them. RUMI & THE RETRIBUTION could definitely be a movie or mini-series.

As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?

A dog! They are loyal, fun and loving.

All About Rumi and the Retribution Schedule: 

What inspired you to write this book?

I have always wanted to write engaging thriller/mysteries, I also wanted to combine life lessons I’ve acquired as part of living and working across the globe for 25 years with the beauty and richness of the Persian culture and literature.

That’s what I’ve tried to bring to RUMI & THE RETRIBUTION

What can we expect from you in the future?

I have at least 10 stories for this series and each will be a bit different. 

Do you have any “side stories” about the characters?

YES and that’s all I can share for now!

Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in (RUMI & THE RETRIBUTION)? 

Gabriel McKnight (MC): courageous, loyal, kind yet distant to everyone outside of his family circle. Has a global outlook in life.

Is a former Navy SEAL, successful author—scarred by a past incident—an incident that would change who he is and how he’d approach life.

Noor Rahman: Sharp, witty, kind, a little lost and scarred by the death of her parents. She has a strong drive, global mindset and just can’t accept reasons given to her for the death of her parents death.

How are these two people connected? How are their pasts intertwined?

READ THE BOOK & YOU WILL FIND OUT! 

How did you come up with the concept and characters for the book? 

I have always loved puzzles and mysteries. I also enjoy high stakes plots, I wanted to take that and combine it with my global experience and Persian poetry and culture. And that’s what I did. 

Where did you come up with the names in the story?

Noor, well, there are several reasons for her name which you will see in the books. Gabriel is a name I’d give to an honorable, yet scarred hero.

What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

Every part of it. For me writing has the same sensation one has when wrapping a Christmas gift for a loved one. 

Tell us about your main characters- what makes them tick? 

Gabriel McKnight (MC): courageous, loyal, kind yet distant to everyone outside of his family circle.

Has a global outlook in life. Is a former Navy SEAL, successful author—scarred by a past incident—an incident that would change who he is and how he’d approach life.

He is a natural hero although he would be the first person to deny it. Present him with a problem and someone who needs help—he’ll dive in.

Noor Rahman: Sharp, witty, kind, a little lost and scarred by the death of her parents. She has a strong drive, global mindset and just can’t accept reasons given to her for her parents death. Justice and finding the truth drive her.

How did you come up with the title of your first novel?

I strive to find a title that captures the soul of the novel. RUMI & THE RETRIBUTION does that for book 1 of my series.

Who designed your book covers?

Roan and Weatherford Publishing, my publisher.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

No! 

Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

Yes, that Gabriel and Noor’s arcs continue. They evolve as they go through each adventure. 

If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead? 

Ah, I’d say Jake Gyllenhaal as Gabriel, and maybe Nazanin Bonyadi, Sara Shahi, or Golshifteh Farahani as Noor.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

My goal is to take you on a journey where you experience a thrill, try to work out interesting puzzles, become good friends with captivating characters while learning a bit about the Persian culture—I want to do all this and make your head spin (in a good way) with a surprise ending!

How did you come up with name of this book?

I strive to find a title that captures the soul of the novel. RUMI & THE RETRIBUTION does that for book 1 of my series.

What is your favorite part of this book and why? 

The unraveling of clues as well as moments characters share in their private world like dinners with family etc…

If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day?

I’d spend a day talking writing with Gabriel and Noor—I’d also have dinner with “Sheila” we’d have some interesting discussions.

Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?

A bit of both

Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story?

A bit of both

Convince us why you feel your book is a must read

My book will transport you into another world and won’t give you a moment to think about anything else—let alone miss the world you left behind! 

Have you written any other books that are not published?

Yes 4 others. And they are in line to be published. 

If your book had a candle, what scent would it be?

A combination of Jasmine, the scent of damp tree leaves and Persian spice.

What did you edit out of this book?

Not much I only tweaked the line editing.

Is there an writer which brain you would love to pick for advice? Who would that be and why?

Anthony Horowitz, he wrote the moon flower murders which is the story of an editor who solves the murder of her publishing house’s writer by reading the book. It’s a novel within a novel and you aren’t bored for a moment. 

Matthew Quirk: love his plots 

Tidbits:

1) There are pieces of me scattered across several characters

2) I have lived in 4 of the settings where the story takes place. 

typewriter
Photo courtesy of: Free-Photos; courtesy of: Pixabay

All About Your Writing/ Reading: 

What are your top 10 favorite books/authors? In no particular order

  1. Jane Austen : Pride and Prejudice– Persuasion
  2. Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre
  3. LM Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables
  4. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  5. Agatha Christie :All the Poirot Novels and Marple novels: some favorites are The Moving Finger-Cards on the Table-Funerals are Fatal
  6. Anthony Horowitz: Magpie and Moonflower Murders, then the Hawthorne and Horowitz Mysteries
  7. Richard Ossman’s Thursday Murderclub Series
  8. Nora Roberts :Suspense/mystery series
  9. JK Rowling’s Harry Potter Series 
  10. Harlan Coben’s Myron Bolitar Series

What book do you think everyone should read?

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD by Harper Lee

How long have you been writing?

I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t writing—Although I’d say I started my novel around 2019.

Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write? 

I know my characters well before I write about them. I spend time with them in my head until they are real and then I write about them.

What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book? 

I do the historical research or whatever research is needed based on the topic I’m writing about.

Do you see writing as a career?

YES ,YES, AND YES!

What do you think about the current publishing market?

I think like many other industries it’s going through change, but what I do believe is that readers will continue to want good stories!

Do you read yourself and if so what is your favorite genre? 

Yes, voraciously, my favorite genre is mystery/thriller, then literary books.

Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why?

In silence without distractions.

Do you write one book at a time or do you have several going at a time?

One at a time because I’m totally immersed in my world with my characters.

If you could have been the author of any book ever written, which book would you choose?

Ah now that’s a tough one—I love many authors however their styles are different from mine so I’d say my own books!

Pen or type writer or computer?

laptop!

Tell us about a favorite character from a book.

Myron Bolitar from Harlan Coben’s Bolitar series. He has a quirky sense of humor, is kind and dives into mysteries. Also Joyce from the Thursday Murder Club series by Richard Osman. She sounds a bit flaky but is very shrewd and sharp.

What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision?

I’ve always known I’d be an author. I just wanted to add meaningful life experience to my novels which is why I started in my late 40s after 25 years of global travel, living and working across the globe.

A day in the life of the author?

I have a full 9-5 job. Then when I come home I spend some time with family and write from 9:00 pm to midnight. Everynight!

Advice you would give new authors?

Don’t give up!

What makes a good story?

To me a good story, regardless of the genre, is one that makes the reader keep turning the pages, gives them a delightful ending and makes them want more when the story is over.

What are you currently reading?

Anthony Horowitz’s Close to Death

What is your writing process? For instance do you do an outline first? Do you do the chapters first?

I have a general outline with key milestones mapped out. I know where I start and what the end will be. Then the characters fill in the rest.

What are common traps for aspiring writers?

Doubting yourself

What is your writing Kryptonite?

Life’s responsibilities, work projects, etc….

Do you try more to be original or to deliver to readers what they want?

I can’t be anything but original and hope that readers will like what I write.

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

Trust your gut and go for it!

How long on average does it take you to write a book?

4-5 months

Do you believe in writer’s block?

I believe it exists—thankfully it hasn’t happened to me yet! Too many stories with too little time to tell them.

Thank you for spending time with us, Pooneh! We wish you luck with Rumi and the Retribution Schedule!

Rumi And The Retribution Schedule Book Tour

The Da Vinci Code meets Rumi in a global thriller/mystery

Rumi and the Retribution

Gabriel McKnight Book 1

by Pooneh Sadeghi

Genre: Global Thriller, Mystery

You Are What You Seek.

Gabriel McKnight, a decorated former U.S. Navy SEAL and bestselling author, sees his perfect life come unraveled when he’s named the prime suspect in a murder case after his twin brother vanishes without a trace.

Now on the run from the law, Gabriel embarks on a desperate worldwide quest to clear his name and uncover his brother’s fate.

His only ally is Noor Rahman, the scion of a once-powerful Iranian dynasty whose past intertwines with a mysterious book of Rumi’s poems left behind by her deceased parents.

Together, Gabriel and Noor decipher cryptic passages suggesting a link between the historic murders of Noor’s family and his brother’s disappearance. From the back alleys of Washington, D.C., to the bustling streets of Paris, and the vibrant vistas of Tehran, they navigate a labyrinth of danger and deception leading them inexorably to Rumi’s mystical resting place in Turkey.

But discovery comes with a perilous cost. With every revelation, Gabriel and Noor inch that much closer to unlocking the sinister truth behind their parallel destinies.

Can they outwit their unseen foes and decode the final mysteries before they themselves become the final casualties in this deadly game?

Get the paperback on Amazon or B&N! 

Or get the ebook:

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Google * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

Book Links:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Rumi-Retribution-Gabriel-McKnight-Book-ebook/dp/B0CZ1DBZLR

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/rumi-and-the-retribution/id6504419789

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rumi-and-the-retribution-pooneh-sadeghi/1145815063?ean=2940186008590

Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Pooneh_Sadeghi_Rumi_and_the_Retribution?id=KaoOEQAAQBAJ

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/rumi-and-the-retribution

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/rumi-and-the-retribution-gabriel-mcknight-book-1-by-pooneh-sadeghi

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/214676717-rumi-and-the-retribution

Excerpt:

CHAPTER ONE

Paris, July 14, 1997

Dying for your loved ones is a noble sacrifice, but outsmarting a killer before you die is a  sweeping triumph. That’s what Shiraz Rahman thought as she rushed out of the Trocadero metro station on a balmy summer evening.

The sun had begun its descent, making way for midnight blue skies. Paris dressed in lights, welcoming all to its various restaurants and cafés. Shiraz’s gaze darted around as she turned into the Delessert Boulevard. Her posture was stiff, her pace fast, and her breath labored.

Up ahead, the Café Delessert bustled with activity. Waiters rushed about delivering trays of food. The aroma of coffee and French cuisine drifted in the air. Parisians and tourists clustered around the tables lined by the sidewalk, their carefree laughter carrying into the night.

Shiraz recalled the days when she, too, laughed freely, unaware of the evil surrounding her. A loud clatter broke through the night. Shiraz bit back a scream and jerked around.

A waiter had dropped a tray on the sidewalk. He bent over to pick it up. Shiraz clutched her purse and hastened her pace. Every so often, she looked back to make sure she wasn’t being followed.

The Delessert Boulevard swarmed with people. It was no surprise. This area offered the best view of the Eiffel Tower. Each year, thousands of people gathered here to celebrate and watch the dazzling fireworks display from the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero gardens.

It seemed like a normal night, and by all accounts it should have been, but Shiraz knew better. I will die tonight. Beads of sweat formed on her upper lip. I’m not afraid. I’m prepared.

After all, her daughter’s life depended on it. Noor, my sweet Noor! Shiraz rubbed her chest as she considered her options another time. 

There was one way to keep Noor safe, and when the time was right, Noor would know the truth. Shiraz had made sure of it. She approached her bookstore and risked another glance over her shoulder.

A shiver ran up her spine. The killer was in the crowd, waiting for an opportunity to strike. She squared her shoulders. Come and get me. That’s all you’ll get.

She entered her bookstore and let her head fall against the door. The scent of worn leather, polished wood, and new books were welcoming and familiar.

Jean Luc, her friend, and the bookstore’s sole employee, sat by the reading nook.  Shiraz pasted a smile on her face. “Why are you working when you should be outside celebrating with the rest of the country?”

Jean Luc placed a book on a shelf close to the armchair he occupied. “Cheri, we have a splendid view. I can watch the celebration from here.”

Shiraz placed her hands on her hips and furrowed her brows into a mock frown. “It’s Independence Day. Go drink wine, celebrate your freedom, and flirt with someone nice. I’ll close the store tonight.”

“Come with me,” Jean Luc pleaded. “We’ll find two delicious men and party all night.”

Shiraz snorted. “The only man I’ll ever love is Parviz.” She rushed on before Jean Luc could  say anything. “I know my husband died years ago, but what Parviz and I had was unique. Something like that happens once in a lifetime.” She made shooing motions with her hands. “That’s why I’m closing, and you’re leaving. It’s your turn to find your soulmate.”

A movement outside of the window caught her eye. For an instant, Shiraz saw a familiar figure standing in the crowd outside of her store. She gripped the armchair and craned her neck to get a better look.

The Trocadero gardens overflowed with people wearing France’s national colors. Its fountains switched from red to blue and back. The Eiffel Tower shone tall and proud. 

Her heart thudded wildly. “Why did it take me so long to figure out the truth?”

“Shiraz, are you all right?” Jean Luc asked, concern evident in his ruddy round face. “You were mumbling to yourself.”

Shiraz studied her hands. Her knuckles had gone white. She let go of the armchair and relaxed her features. “I’m fine. I was just thinking, that’s all.”

Jean Luc looked uncertain. “Are you sure you want to stay here?”

Shiraz bobbed her head. “Yes, Noor and I have plans. Go enjoy your evening.”

Jean Luc finally gave in and left the store. Shiraz shut the door behind him then poured herself a cup of tea. She sat behind the counter and picked up a volume of Rumi’s poems.

“Life is a multitude of patterns that rise, fall, and flow together. You taught me that.” She traced her hands along the book’s spine. “It’s Noor’s turn to find her place and purpose in life. I know you’ll guide her as you did me.” Shiraz opened the book and lost herself in Rumi’s compelling verse.

The sound of chimes announced a newcomer. Footsteps echoed in the silent store. The grandfather clock ticked in the corner, counting every second that remained of her life. Shiraz closed the book and stared into the stone cold eyes of a killer.

The killer aimed a gun at her. “I put the ‘Closed’ sign up. Let’s go to the back of the store.”

Shiraz grimaced, revulsion evident in her face. “I can’t believe it. All the lies, and the betrayal. How could you do it?”

The killer spoke with a coldness Shiraz had never heard before. “Easily. Now move. I don’t have all night.”

She rose and headed toward the small office at the back of the store. Her enemy held the gun at her back and pushed her into the office. She stumbled and straightened herself. “I know why you’re here. You shouldn’t have come.”

“Where is the package?”

Shiraz raised her chin. “I don’t know.”

Her enemy slapped her with enough force to knock her head against the bookshelf behind the desk. Shiraz stumbled and straightened herself. She spat blood, and at that moment the future of her daughter was all that mattered. Her face flushed.

There was a moment of stillness on both sides, then Shiraz charged her foe. She was no match for her opponent’s strength, but it took her assailant off guard.

They fell to the floor in a struggle. Shiraz kicked her opponent as hard as she could and  struggled to rise to her feet. Outside, voices rose as thousands of Parisians sang their national anthem.

The murderer grabbed Shiraz’s ankle and dragged her back down. Shiraz reached out and grabbed the volume of Rumi’s poems. She knocked her assailant over the head with the book.

“Argh!” her assailant grunted, nonplussed.

Shiraz wobbled to her feet. Her breath hitched as she forced her shaky limbs to move. She made it halfway to the exit when the murderer grabbed a fist full of her hair and dragged her back to the office.

Shiraz’s chest heaved, and her lungs burned as she gulped air.

The killer aimed the gun at her. “I’m in no mood to play games. I’ll ask one more time. Where is the package?”

Shiraz met her foe’s gaze defiantly, and for an instant, her mouth turned up. “You’ll never find it.”

Nostrils flared. “Then you’re no use to me.”

Gunshots echoed in the store just as the fireworks at the Trocadero started. Shiraz blinked. She felt nothing for a few seconds, then fell to the floor as pain gripped her body. She tried to rise. Her body didn’t cooperate. Her body twitched and convulsed as blood drained from her wounds. She flung her hand out, trying to reach for the telephone cord a few feet away. Her vision grew blurry, and her breath came gasps.

She didn’t know how much time had passed when footsteps approached her. A man bent over her. Shiraz squinted through the haze of pain. It was Morris, her late husband’s friend. Morris pressed his hands over her wounds, trying to stop the bleeding. He shouted something, but a tremor shook her body, drowning out his words. 

She coughed blood.

Sweat formed on Morris’s upper lip. “Hold on.” He tore strips of his own shirt to bind her wounds. The pain began to ease and grow distant. A bright haze filled her vision. Shiraz felt light, as if she was floating. She looked up and blinked. 

Her late husband, Parviz, stood by the doorway of her office. He gazed at her lovingly, then opened his arms.

No, not yet! Shiraz mustered all her strength and gripped Morris’s arm. “Noor,” she whispered.

Morris’s eyes glistened with tears. He nodded grimly. “I’ll keep her safe. You have my word.”

Satisfied she’d done everything she could for her daughter, Shiraz Rahman took her last breath and stepped into her husband’s arms.

Giveaway

Print Copy of Rumi and the Retribution, $10 Amazon giftcard – 1 winner each!

Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

https://bit.ly/RumiRetributionTour

About the Author

I was born to a diplomat and housewife in Tehran-Iran then whisked across the globe to whatever country my parents had been assigned to.

Raised to appreciate various cultures, landscapes, languages, and viewpoints, my life was one grand adventure until a revolution took place in my country and turned our lives upside down.

Between then and the age of eighteen I had experienced both the joy, freedom, and magic our world offers as well as wars, deprivation, and oppression.

My undergraduate studies were in the Middle East and my post graduate studies were at the Sorbonne University in Paris, France.

So, when did I become a writer? Books had always been my greatest friends, teachers, refuge, and the inspiration to forge my own future.

In college I realized I wanted to write engaging mysteries and thrillers. At the same time, I wanted to give readers more than a story. I wanted to share the rich beauty of Persian literature as well as that of other cultures.

For that I embarked on a twenty-two-year journey, traveling to various countries, and experiencing life while establishing a successful career.

Gabriel McKnight and his first story had been on my mind for several years yet it wasn’t until my mid-forties that I picked up the proverbial pen. The time had come to share my stories.

The next step was making my dream come true. I queried several agents and one glorious day in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic my wonderful literary agent reached out to me with an offer for representation. She took my story to publishers and before I knew it, we had a publishing contract –and here we are.

Today, I live in Oklahoma City, USA with my family and two dogs. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s the power of words. Words can heal, teach, entertain, inspire, and evoke change. I hope you enjoy Gabriel’s adventures as much as I enjoyed writing them.

Website * Facebook * X * Instagram * Amazon * Goodreads

Author Links

Website: https://poonehsadeghi.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557188217131

X: https://x.com/SadeghiPooneh

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poonehsadeghi_/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Pooneh-Sadeghi/author/B0D7DPZ2VD

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/50396878.Pooneh_Sadeghi