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Randall’s Ramblings, August 13, 2023

Randall Krzak

Not much change over the past week with our local weather patterns. We still have below normal temperatures and rain/showers on most days. We did have a brief reprieve for about forty-eight hours when the temperature hit 72F (22C) with only one shower. Right now, we have overcast skies with more showers in the forecast, and the temperature is 59F (15C).

It took several months for the price of gasoline (petrol) to drop from a high of £1.67 a liter which we experienced in October 2022 to £1.41. Over the past three weeks, the price began increasing again, and is now up to £1.48 liter. With the current exchange rate, this make an equivalent U.S. gallon $7.10. The price is expected to  increase further.

“Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout of some painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand.” — George Orwell. Compliments of https://selfpublishing.com/writing-quotes/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 13 August, the second Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

William Caxton, English printer and translator, 1st to print in the English language (Histories of Troy); William Wotton, English theologian and scholar; John Dyer, Welsh painter and poet, (Grongar Hill); Nikolaus Lenau, Hungarian-German poet (Faust, Die Albigenser); Vladimir Odoevsky, Russian philosopher & writer; Joseph Alberdingk Thijm, Dutch poet (Dietsche Warande); Goldwin Smith, English historian and journalist; Rodolphe Bresdin, French visionary engraver and lithographer (Le Bon Samaritain); Rudolf Georg Binding, German songwriter and writer (Legenden Der Zeit); William Alexander Craigie, Scottish lexicographer (Skotlands Rimur); Jacqueline Reyneke van Stuwe, Dutch author; Howard Marks, British drug dealer and author (Mr Nice); Tom Perrotta, American novelist (Little Children); Amélie Nothomb, Belgian writer (Fear and Trembling); Will Clarke, American novelist (The Neon Palm of Madame Melançon); Kamila Shamsie, Pakistani British writer (Home Fire); and Ibram X. Kendi, American author and anti-racist activist.

Any names familiar to you? There weren’t any for me this time. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Published Work

Frozen-Conquest-eBook-Cover-HRThis week, Frozen Conquest received its second Amazon review–another five star!  Here it is:

Awesome Cold Thriller

From his Antarctica-based outpost an arrogant billionaire, whose real motivation is power, hacks into the world’s banking systems and threatens anarchy. I’m on my second reading; great book.

Many thanks, Des, for taking the time to leave a review.

My Work In Progress

Mission- YemenThis week, I completed chapter eight  of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2. As always, it’s been posted to the two online writing sites I use. A further nineteen reviews came in this week, bringing the total to 133. As always, plenty of recommendations for me to consider.

Here’s another snippet. Please keep in mind that since these are first-draft chapters, things will likely be changed once I get to the editing phase. In the meantime, if you have any suggestions, please let me know.

Prince Hussein Khan al Mishari, a minor member of the House of Saud, crossed his arms as he stared at Shatara. “So, what is your answer?”

She stared at him before lowering her head. “Sir, I … I cannot marry you—at least not yet. I am only sixteen. I had hoped to wait until I was more than eighteen like my mother did.”

“Nonsense.” He waved a hand to dismiss her response before recrossing his arms. “Most females in Yemen marry before they are eighteen, some as young as eight or nine. Why should you be any different?”

She glanced at the dirty stone walls and floor of her prison before pointing to the waste bucket in a corner. “Sir, it is hard for me to contemplate my future with anyone when I’m kept in such horrible conditions. Even the rats refuse to eat the food I am given.”

“Sabberny ya rabb.” al Mishari shook his head. “I definitely need Allah to give me the patience to deal with you.”

“Someone kidnapped me off the street at least three weeks ago. I’m  the one who needs the fortitude to handle this situation.” She wiped her hand down the chador. “As you can see, this is dirty, and so are my clothes underneath. This never happened at my home. I’m also bored—there’s nothing to do but pray. Can’t I have a book or two?”

“You are a very impertinent, young lady.” He glared at her. “It is clear you were not taught proper manners by your parents.”

“They did so—they just believe in allowing my brother and me to express ourselves. Although they are Muslim, they’ve experienced life in other cultures and have an open mind to how things should be.”

He frowned. “Well, if you were my daughter or one of my wives, you would be taught to show proper respect.” He shook his head again. “It might be easier for both of us if you sign the document.”

“No. I told you before I would not lie about my father and sign your false statement condemning him. Nor do I want to marry you.”

al Mishari glanced around the cell. “Perhaps you would have a different opinion of me if you were kept in better surroundings. I do admit this is rather bleak.”

Shatara smiled. “At least you are showing some common sense. But I would rather be back in Haddah, enjoying my family’s mansion.”

He tapped a finger against his lips. “When I first came to Sana’a, I acquired a number of properties. I shall arrange for two of my men to move you late this evening when the streets are quiet.”

“Where will they take me?”

“It is not important where you will be as you will still be under guard at all times. We will speak later” He turned and opened the door. After locking it, he marched away.

More next time.

My Published Work – Promotions

The Kurdish Connection, Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, Mission: Angola, and Frozen Conquest are participating in a Thrillers and Suspense promotion through the end of August. There are seventy-eight Mystery & Suspense, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Romance / Suspense novels to choose from, so when you have a moment or two, please check it out.

Frozen Conquest and Colombian Betrayal are participating in an August ebook sales, deals & steals for mystery, suspense, thrillers and mayhem. Only two titles were allowed per author. There are fifty-eight books to check out in this one.

https://books.bookfunnel.com/mystery-romance2/6e3yxv7hc5

Here’s another promotion, called Vengeance. The Kurdish Connection and Dangerous Alliance are two of the sixty-nine participating titles.

https://books.bookfunnel.com/r…

And, finally, all of my novels are involved in a Heart-Pounding Reads promotion. There are 119 novels to choose from in this one.

https://books.bookfunnel.com/h…

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, August 6, 2023

Randall Krzak

The days and weeks keep rolling by. Here we are already in August–where has the summer gone?  Despite the calendar ticking over, we’re still getting plenty of rain and lower-than-normal temperatures. However, the forecasters are predicting we’ll be receiving above average temperatures soon.

“In my later years, I have looked in the mirror each day and found a happy person staring back. Occasionally I wonder why I can be so happy. The answer is that every day of my life I’ve worked only for myself and for the joy that comes from writing and creating. The image in my mirror is not optimistic, but the result of optimal behavior.” — Ray Bradbury. Compliments of https://selfpublishing.com/writing-quotes/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 6 August, the first Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

François Fénelon, French Roman Catholic theologian and writer (Playing for Time); Luc de Clapiers, marquis de Vauvenargues, French writer; Alfred Tennyson, British Poet Laureate of Great Britain (The Charge of the Light Brigade); Thomas Alexander Browne, Australian writer (Robbery Under Arms); Fernando Canon, Filipino revolutionary general, poet, and the Philippines 1st National Chess Champion; Paul Claudel, French poet and playwright (L’Otage-1909); Emanuel Querido, Dutch author and publisher (N.V. Em. Querido Uitgeversmaatschappij); Charles Fort, American writer and researcher (specialized in anomalous phenomena); Louella Parsons, American gossip columnist; Scott Nearing, American sociologist, pacifist and author (The Good Life); John Middleton Murry, English poet and literary critic (Between Two Worlds); James Lees-Milne, English writer and architectural historian; Christa Reinig, German poet and writer (Idleness is the Root of All Love, The Tightrope Walker); J[anet] O[pal] Jeppson [nee Janet Asimov], author (2nd Experiment); Norman Wexler, American screenwriter; and Piers Anthony Dillingham Jacob, UK, sci-fi author (Chthon, Phthor).

Any names familiar to you? There was one for me this week: Alfred Tennyson. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Published Work

Frozen-Conquest-eBook-Cover-HRThis week, Frozen Conquest received its first Amazon review–a five star!  Here it is:

If searching for a fun read full of action, adventure, and intrigue, Mr. Krzak’s Frozen Conquest is a must choice. The story moves quickly and for those who like clues, a few of those gems for you, too. Oh, did I mention humor? The author efficiently slides that in there rather cleverly I might add.

As I read the story, what came to mind is how fragile security is. At any given moment scammers, plotters, villains are out there seeking to destroy and disrupt lives. And for counterpoint are those zealously seeking to prevent evil from conquering in the end.

Most of us go through our daily lives without much thought to it. So much is out of our direct control with the advances in technology and methods of warfare.

Even better, hopefully, the author writes a sequel to further explore the character of Mr. Brown. He’s kind of an enigma. Does he do what he does to save humanity and the planet, or, for more selfish motives? I highly recommend this gem. Enjoy.

Many thanks to Cherry Blossom for this review!

My Work In Progress

Mission- YemenThis week, I completed chapter seven  of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2. As always, it’s been posted to the two online writing sites I use. A further eighteen reviews came in this week, bringing the total to 114. As always, plenty of recommendations for me to consider.

Here’s another snippet. Please keep in mind that since these are first-draft chapters, things will likely be changed once I get to the editing phase. In the meantime, if you have any suggestions, please let me know.

“Ah, yes, Sayyid Sear. We have been expecting you.” The man lifted a key from beneath the counter and pushed it toward Sear. “Don’t let the condition of our fine hotel fool you. For over two years, Sayyid Vincent has paid for every room, and he mandated the condition he wanted the hotel in to keep prying eyes away. Some of the rooms are occupied from time to time by people like you, while others use this as a transit point away from the fighting.”

Sounds like Vincent. “Shukran. Where is my room?”

“One floor up. There aren’t any rooms on the ground floor. However, there is an outside exit near your room.” The man pulled a small package from under the counter. “Vincent said you might need this.”

Sear nodded. “What is your name, so I can tell Vincent how helpful you’ve been?”

The man smiled and dipped his head. “My name isn’t important, but my parents called me Dabir.”

“Nice to meet you, Dabir. I’ll go to my room and relax. I’m expecting two visitors.”

“Yes, Sayyid. One of them was here earlier with the package from Vincent.”

Must have been Malik. “Shukran. I will speak with you later.”

Dabir pointed. “Take the stairs to the first floor, and your room is to the right.”

Sear picked up the package and headed to the stairs. When he reached his room, he used the old-fashioned skeleton key to unlock the door. Inside, a single bed, a small chest of drawers, and a bedside table. He opened an interior door and stuck his head inside. Whoa! Someone forgot to clean this. Worse than using a hole dug along the Zambezi River.

His phone beeped. He pulled it out and glanced at the text.

We’re on the hotel’s street—three motorcycles. Be outside in three minutes.

Sear responded, shoved his phone in his back pocket, and opened the package.

Excellent. A SIG Sauer P-226, three magazines, and a holster. I won’t feel naked. He attached the holster to his belt and loaded the pistol, putting the other two magazines in a small backpack he pulled from his carryon luggage. Satisfied he was ready, Sear left the room and headed through the side exit.

Outside once again, Sear headed to the street and looked both ways. From the right, he spotted three motorcycles and a car heading in his direction.

As the vehicles approached, the car nudged the rear motorcycle.

The motorcyclist swerved out of the way.

The car pulled alongside.

Boom!

More next time.

My Published Work – Promotions

The Kurdish Connection, Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, Mission: Angola, and Frozen Conquest are participating in a Thrillers and Suspense promotion through the end of August. There are seventy-eight Mystery & Suspense, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Romance / Suspense novels to choose from, so when you have a moment or two, please check it out.

Frozen Conquest and Colombian Betrayal are participating in an August ebook sales, deals & steals for mystery, suspense, thrillers and mayhem. Only two titles were allowed per author. There are fifty-eight books to check out in this one.

https://books.bookfunnel.com/mystery-romance2/6e3yxv7hc5

Here’s another promotion, called Vengeance. The Kurdish Connection and Dangerous Alliance are two of the sixty-nine participating titles.

https://books.bookfunnel.com/r…

And, finally, all of my novels are involved in a Heart-Pounding Reads promotion. There are 119 novels to choose from in this one.

https://books.bookfunnel.com/h…

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, July 30, 2023

Randall Krzak

We had a great visit with our son, but as normal, it was way too short. He’s back in Washington, D.C now, but he’ll be back again at Christmas. We already miss him!

The past three days were the latest small business market at the local mall. We did very well. I signed nineteen copies of my books, while Sylvia sold eighteen of her laminated poetry sheets, eight of her bookmarks, and four of her poetry books. The next market isn’t until the 1st of September, and we’re already looking at adding some additional bookmarks to the table.

“A book is made from a tree. It is an assemblage of flat, flexible parts (still called “leaves”) imprinted with dark pigmented squiggles. One glance at it and you hear the voice of another person, perhaps someone dead for thousands of years. Across the millennia, the author is speaking, clearly and silently, inside your head, directly to you. Writing is perhaps the greatest of human inventions, binding together people, citizens of distant epochs, who never knew one another. Books break the shackles of time–proof that humans can work magic.”
― Carl Sagan. Compliments of https://www.inc.com/glenn-leibowitz/50-quotes-from-famous-authors-that-will-inspire-yo.html.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 30 July, the fifth and final Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Giorgio Vasari, Italian painter and art historian (Vasari’s Lives); Samuel Rogers, English poet (Italy, a poem); Emily Bronte,  English novelist (Wuthering Heights); Helena Blavatsky, Russian occultist, philosopher, and author (co-founded Theosophical Society); Richard Haldane, British viscount and lord-chancellor (Life of A Smith); Thorstein Veblen, American economist (Theory of the Leisure Class-1899); Robert R. McCormick, American editor and publisher (Chicago Tribune); Blanche Knopf, American publisher, president of Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. and wife of publisher Alfred A. Knopf Sr.; Jacques de Kadt, Dutch politician and writer (Fascism is War!); Salvador Novo, Mexican writer and poet; C. Northcote Parkinson, English historian (Pursuit of Progress); Karl Guttmann, Austrian-Dutch playwright and director (Albee/Pinter); Michael Morris, 3rd Baron Killanin, MBE, TD, Irish journalist, author, sports official (6th President International Olympic Committee 1972-80); Berniece Baker Miracle, American writer (My Sister Marilyn) and half-sister of Marilyn Monroe; William H. Gass, American novelist and philosopher (Omensetter’s Luck); Peter Trevenen Thwaites, British Brigadier General and playwright (Love or money); Tony Lip [Frank Anthony Vallelonga], American author and actor (Sopranos, Donnie Brasco, Good Fellas); Patrick Modiano, French novelist (Nobel 2014); and Deacon Lunchbox [Timothy Tyson Ruttenber], American poet and performance artist.

Any names familiar to you? There was one for me this week: Emily Bronte. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Published Work – Promotions

The Kurdish Connection, Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, Mission: Angola, and Frozen Conquest are participating in a Thrillers and Suspense promotion through the end of August. There are seventy-eight Mystery & Suspense, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Romance / Suspense novels to choose from, so when you have a moment or two, please check it out.

My Work In Progress

Mission- YemenThis week, I completed chapter six  of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2. As always, it’s been posted to the two online writing sites I use. A further twenty-three reviews came in this week, bringing the total to ninety-six. As always, plenty of recommendations for me to consider.

Here’s another snippet. Please keep in mind that since these are first-draft chapters, things will likely be changed once I get to the editing phase. In the meantime, if you have any suggestions, please let me know.

Sear waited until several passengers had disembarked before following. The intense heat hit him as he left the plane. When they entered the one-story terminal building, the heat only slightly dissipated.

Holding up the temporary UN credentials he had been given by Vincent, he nodded to an official near the exit.

The man glanced at the documents and at Sear’s face before waving him on.

Outside again in the oppressive heat, Sear searched for a taxi. He spotted two yellow and white vehicles parked near a taxi sign, with the drivers leaning against the doors. On top of each car was a yellow sign with black Arabic script indicating they were taxis.

Sear, who spoke Arabic, Farsi, Turkish, French, and Spanish, approached them. He spoke in Arabic. “Salam Alaikum.”

Both men responded. “Wa Alaykum as-salam.”

“Do you know the Al Bilad Hotel?”

The first driver shook his head.

The second one nodded and smiled. “Yes, I know where it is, Sayyid. I will take you.”

Sear climbed into the back seat of the taxi, breathing through his mouth to avoid the stench of something rotten inside. He rolled down the window as they departed, and the breeze of the moving vehicle seemed to help with the smell.

The driver kept looking in the rearview mirror. “Sayyid, are you here for business? Not too many tourists come to Sana’s right now because of the fighting.”

“Yes. I’m here to assist a friend.”

“Yes, Sayyid. If you need to find your way around the city, I am Cemal, and I will take you.”

“Shukran.” Sear smiled. “My friend is from Sana’a, so I will be in good hands.”

“Understood, Sayyid.”

Sear pulled out his cell phone and checked for messages. There were two:

Meet you at the hotel. Bringing your favorite weapon. Malik 

On my way to the hotel, accompanied by a representative of your friend. Wasim

 Sear grinned. Great. Things are falling into place. I’ll feel better being armed. Assume Wasim is bringing someone who knows how to contact Bashari. After acknowledging both texts, he slipped the phone into his pocket and gazed out the window.

More next time.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, July 23, 2023

Randall Krzak

It’s been another wet week, with rain five of the past seven days. Sometimes there were light showers while at other times there were heavy downpours. The temperatures are also lower than normal. Right now, it’s 54F (13C) but feels like 44F/7C. Of course, the wind coming from the north is keeping the temperatures down.

We’ve had a great week despite the weather as our son, who lives in Washington, D.C., arrived on Monday for a ten-day visit. On Thursday, one of the dry days, we went to Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. The palace was one of the principal residences of the monarchs of Scotland in the 15th and 16th centuries, but was burned out in 1746. However, it’s still worth a visit if you’re in the area.

“Read, read, read. Read everything – trash, classics, good and bad, and see how they do it. Just like a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! You’ll absorb it. Then write. If it’s good, you’ll find out. If it’s not, throw it out of the window.” – William Faulkner. Compliments of https://www.inc.com/glenn-leibowitz/50-quotes-from-famous-authors-that-will-inspire-yo.html.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 23 July, the fourth and final Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Francis Blomefield, English topographer (History of Norfolk); Coventry Patmore, English poet and critic (The Angel in the House); Edmund John Armstrong, Irish poet; Salvador de Madariaga y Rojo, Spanish diplomat and writer (Englishmen, Frenchmen, Spaniards); Gluyas Williams, American cartoonist (Fellows Citizen); Raymond Chandler, American-British mystery novelist and screenwriter (Farewell My Lovely; The Long Goodbye; The Big Sleep); Elspeth Huxley, English author (The Flame Trees of Thika and The Mottled Lizard); Michael Foot, British politician (L) and writer, Leader of the Opposition (1980-83); Ronald Ridout, English school textbook author (English Today); Cyril M. Kornbluth, American sci-fi writer (Space Merchants); Gavin Lambert, British-American screenwriter (Inside Daisy Clover); Ludvik Vaculik, Czech writer (Two Thousand Words); Hubert Selby Jr., American author (Last Exit to Brooklyn); Guy Fournier, French Canadian author and screenwriter; Nicholas Barrington, British high commissioner (Pakistan) and author (A passage to Nuristan: exploring the mysterious Afghan hinterland); and Carl Phillips, American poet (“Then the War” – 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry).

Any names familiar to you? There were two for me this week: Michael Foot and Nicholas Barrington. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Published Work – Promotions

The Kurdish Connection, Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, Mission: Angola, and Frozen Conquest are participating in a Thrillers and Suspense promotion through the end of August. There are seventy-eight Mystery & Suspense, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Romance / Suspense novels to choose from, so when you have a moment or two, please check it out.

My Work In Progress

Mission- YemenThis week, I completed chapter five  of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2. It’s been posted to the two online writing sites I use. A further twenty-two reviews came in this week, bringing the total to seventy-three. As always, plenty of recommendations for me to consider.

Here’s another snippet. Please keep in mind that since these are first-draft chapters, things will likely be changed once I get to the editing phase. In the meantime, if you have any suggestions, please let me know.

A man with salt and pepper hair and dark brown eyes sat in a window seat on the United Nations flight as it circled Sana’a International Airport as it prepared to land. Squashed into the seat by the huge man sitting in the middle, he gazed out the window as he rubbed the three-day growth on his face. He grabbed the armrests as the aircraft rocked in the slight turbulence. I hate airplanes. Why couldn’t I have driven in? Although I suppose a UN flight might be safer than one of the resumed commercial flights.

His real name long forgotten, the man now known as Xavier Sear continued to study the digital file provided by Ron Vincent. Sear received the file while attending the twentieth wedding anniversary of long-time friends, João and Catarina Regaleira. João had convinced him to help rescue an Angolan doctor who had been kidnapped by guerillas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo while working for the Christian Aid Mission. Sear met up with Vincent while in Lisbon and received his latest mission.

Once a member of the CIA’s Special Activities Division (SAD), responsible for covert and paramilitary operations, Sear now worked as a free-lance contractor. While he could accept or reject any assignment, he usually agreed to those Vincent recommended. Hope this one is as easy as the one in the DRC. Not that any of the missions Vincent gives me are easy.

He clicked a button to return to the beginning of the file. The first item was a series of photos depicting the Bashari family: Abdullah; his wife, Yasmin Rashid; sixteen-year-old daughter, Shatara; and fourteen-year-old son, Zahid. A lovely looking family. Their love for each other is apparent in their expressions throughout the pictures.

The plane rocked again as the landing wheels locked into place.

Sear closed the file, removed the thumb drive, and shut down his iPad before stowing it in his carryon bag, shoved between his legs. He inched the drive into his front pocket. Don’t want to lose this.

The aircraft bounced once as it landed before the pilot leveled off and rocketed toward the terminal.

Sear clung onto the armrests. Can’t blame the pilot for hurrying. We’re a sitting target and could be caught up in the fighting between the Saudi-led coalition and the Houthis. I hope Malik and Qasim received the message I’m arriving today. If not, I’ll have to go to ground until I can contact them.

More next time.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, July 16, 2023

Randall Krzak

It’s been a wet week, with rain almost every day. Sometimes there were light showers while at other times there were heavy downpours. Last night on the news during the weather segment, the announcer stated July was a wetter-than-normal month and it’s expected to continue for at least the next week.

“Close the door. Write with no one looking over your shoulder. Don’t try to figure out what other people want to hear from you; figure out what you have to say. It’s the one and only thing you have to offer.” – Barbara Kingsolver. Compliments of: https://getfreewrite.com/blogs/writing-success/55-motivational-writing-quotes

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 16 July, the third Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Marc René, Marquis de Montalembert, French military engineer and writer; da B. Wells (-Barnett), American journalist, civil rights activist, and co-founder of the NAACP; George A. Birmingham, Irish clergyman and novelist; Lambert McKenna, Irish editor and lexicographer; Larry Semon, American silent film actor, director, producer, and screenwriter (The Wizard of Oz (1925)); Maurits Dekker, Dutch novelist and playwright (Merkteken; Boots In Jail); Edward Miller, British historian and Master (Fitzwilliam College Cambridge); Trevor Illtyd Williams, scientific writer; Shirley Hughes, English author and illustrator (Dogger); Anita Brookner, English novelist (Hotel du Lac) and art historian; Robert Sheckley, American sci-fi author (10th Victim, Mindswap); Lady Caroline Blackwood, British journalist and writer (The Last of the Duchess); Tom Rosenthal, British publisher and broadcaster; Marion Pitt, social worker/writer; Reinaldo Arenas, Cuban poet and novelist (Pentagonia); Esther Friesner, American sci-fi author (Witchwood Cradle); Tony Kushner, American playwright and screenwriter (Angels in America: A Gay Fantasia on National Themes); Alexandra Marinina, Russian writer (Igra Na Chuzhom Pole); Johnny Vaughan, English writer and broadcaster (Capital Breakfast); and Will Ferrell, American Emmy and Raspberry Award-winning comic actor and writer (SNL, 1995-2002; Anchorman; Elf; Step Brothers); Larry Sanger, American co-founder of Wikipedia.

Any names familiar to you? There were three for me this week: Will Ferrell. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Published Work – Promotions

The Kurdish Connection, Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, Mission: Angola, and Frozen Conquest are participating in a Thrillers and Suspense promotion through the end of August. There are seventy-eight Mystery & Suspense, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Romance / Suspense novels to choose from, so when you have a moment or two, please check it out.

My Work In Progress

Mission- YemenThis week, I completed chapters three and four of Mission: Yemen, Xavier Sear Thriller Book 2. Both chapters have been posted to the two online writing sites I use. A further thirty-one reviews, bringing the total to fifty-one. As always, plenty of recommendations for me to consider.

Here’s another snippet. Please keep in mind that since these are first-draft chapters, things will likely be changed once I get to the editing phase. In the meantime, if you have any suggestions, please let me know.

Shatara scurried forward as a chunk of bread and an apple dropped through a slot. Moments later, the door inched open, and a fresh bucket of water was shoved inside before the door slammed shut.

She studied the stale bread. Larger than normal. Makes up for the bruised apple. Oh well. She broke off several small pieces of the crust and put them in the corner. Here, Bushra, you may eat when you are ready.

Shatara scooped dead flies from the top of the new water bucket. Stomach rumbling, she broke off pieces of the bread and dunked them in the tepid water before shoving them into her mouth. After finishing the bread, she bit into the apple. She shook her head at the bitter flavors while she savored the juice trickling down her parched throat.

After finishing her meager meal, Shatara leaned against the wall opposite the window. She could make out a few stars appearing, as well as a sliver of a new moon. They were soon blotted out. The sounds of the wind picking up whistled through the bars as sand splattered the outside of the building, as noisy as if it were a tropical storm.

She crept back to the water bucket and dipped her hand into the tepid liquid, cupping her fingers as she brought a small handful towards her mouth. After wetting her lips, she spat it out and returned to her blanket.

With the cooler breezes because of the approaching storm, she spread the chador across the blanket to give greater warmth. Before long, she fell asleep.

***

Shatara tossed and turned for hours. At one point, she reflected on her family. Tears formed as she thought of her parents and her brother, Zahid. I miss them so much. Will I ever see them again?

At long last, she drifted into a troubled sleep, the blanket and chador tight around her body.

***

The morning call to prayer woke her from a restless night. Body aching, she stretched to work out some of the kinks. What will today bring? Will Baba find me and take me home? She began her preparations for the Fajr, or the first prayer of the day.

“Aaaaaaaah!”

An ear-piecing screech filled the air, which was abruptly cut off.

What is happening? She dashed to the blanket and tugged on her chador.

Rather than the clip-clop sounds of the jailer, the measured footsteps of someone else echoed in the corridor.

Shatara hurried to don the chador.

The key turned in the lock, squealing as normal.

The door opened, and a man dressed in a white full-length loose-fitting garment with long sleeves known as a thobe and a red and white checkered kaffiyeh stepped inside. “Well? Are you ready? I demand your answer—now. Speak with great care, or it could be your undoing.”

More next time.

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, June 18, 2023

Randall Krzak

Happy Father’s Day to all fathers around the world. I hope you enjoy your special day. This year, Father’s Day also coincides with the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year.

After the light rain we had last Sunday, Mother Nature decided we needed some more sunshine. Every day since has been filled with plenty of sun and the temperatures have soared into the upper 70s with a high of 79F (26C) on Wednesday. Heavy rain is predicted for late this evening as we appear to be returning to our normal weather patterns.

If you’ve ever felt blocked, or felt that you’re not good enough as a writer, check this out: We are all apprentices in a craft where no one ever becomes a master. ~ Ernest Hemingway. Compliments of https://www.writerswrite.co.za/motivational-quotes-on-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 18 June, the third Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Ottaviano Petrucci, Italian printer; Gabriello Chiabrera, Italian poet; Thomas Overbury, English poet (A Wife) and essayist; Ivan Goncharov, Russian novelist (Oblomov); Pavel Annenkov, Russian literature historian (Zametsjatelnoje desjatileti); Edward Wyllis Scripps, American publisher who organized 1st US major chain of newspapers (The E. W. Scripps Company); José Trindade Coelho, Portuguese writer (Os Meus Amores); George Essex Evans, Australian poet; Philip Barry, American dramatist (Philadelphia Story); Raymond Radiguet, French journalist and writer (Le diable ouch corps); Sylvia Porter, American financial writer (Sylvia Porter’s Money Book); Bert Schierbeek, Dutch writer and poet (Cross Roads); Aster Berkhof [Louis Van de Bergh], Flemish writer (Furious Christ); Rex Collings, English publisher (Rex Collings); Tom Wicker, American columnist (covered assassination of JFK for NY Times) and author; John Phillipps Kenyon, English historian; James Bishop, English editor (deputy editor of The Times); Geoffrey Hill, English poet; Gail Godwin, American author (Perfectionists, Odd Woman); Russell Ash, British author (‘the human Google’); Chris Van Allsburg, American author and illustrator; William Randolph Hearst III, American publisher and editor; Richard Powers, American novelist (The Overstory – Pulitzer Prize for Fiction 2019); and Christopher Largen, American author.

Any names familiar to you? There were two for me: Sylvia Porter and William Randolph Hearst III. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Published Work

Over the past week I’ve had more suspicious activity on my social media accounts. As a result, I have deleted by Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts, so this is the only way you’ll get updates from me for the foreseeable future. Once I set up new accounts, I’ll put a note here.

In the meantime, every Thursday I will send out a separate post dedicated to my published novels, which will include the blurb from the back of each book, any awards, and the latest mockup banners I’ve received from http://www.allauthor.com. Please share these posts with your mailing lists. Allauthor will also continue to issue their regular Twitter notifications.

My Work In Progress

Slide1This week, my personal editing of Frozen Conquest continued. I’ve now gone through all 810 chapter reviews it’s received and incorporated the suggestions I wanted to use into the manuscript. I’ve also completed the first two edit passes, and will begin the third one later today.

Here’s another snippet:

The Scandinavian Protection Agency had chartered the RV Aquavit as a floating platform for their venture to Antarctica, complete with an experienced crew and a scientific staff.

Carina and Gunner joined the rest of the six-person SPA team, which would conduct their experiments on the mainland. They entered the mess and found their teammates: Ailsa Dahl, a petite blonde project manager who was game for anything; Bertelot Gulbrandsson, the team leader and an engineer by training; Eggert Falkenberg, another engineer and a blond giant of a man with a quiet nature; and Rona Lundgren, a statuesque blonde well over six feet tall. Carina and Ailsa were climatologists while Rona was a meteorologist.

“Where did you two go? Checking out the sights—or each other?” Bertelot chuckled.

Carina’s face reddened. “If you must know, I was studying the landscape above the city. It’s the last time we’ll see anything but ice until we return.”

“Should have taken some photos to remind you.” Bertelot maintained a straight face.

Everyone laughed.

Rona stood. “Anyone for coffee? I’ll put on a fresh pot.”

After a round of “yes” from the rest of the team, she headed into the galley.

Another whistle blew.

A vibration ran through the deck as the engine engaged. The ship swung away from the pier, heading in a southerly direction.

Rona returned a few minutes later carrying a tray with a fresh pot of coffee and cups. After everyone had a refill, she raised her cup in the air. “Here’s to our next adventure—Antarctica, here we come!”

Eggert spoke in a deep bass voice. “I am looking forward to my first time on the ice. I have dreamed of this since I was a child.”

“Too bad you missed our Arctic excursion.” Carina smiled. “What a time to come down with chickenpox.”

“Yes, but it was a mild case since I was vaccinated as a child. They were a present from my niece.” He thumped his chest and coughed. “But I am in perfect shape now.” He coughed again.

“Take it easy, Eggert.” Bertelot grinned. “We don’t have a doctor aboard—just a nurse.”

“Is she attractive?”

Bertelot chuckled. “I guess you could say so. The nurse’s name is Tim.”

“Oh.”

Everyone laughed as they stood.

“See everyone here in about three hours.” Bertelot pointed at Rona. “We have a guest chef tonight.”

Rona touched a finger to her cheek. “Oh. Not sure about being a chef, but I make fantastic spaghetti and meatballs.”

“I’m heading out on deck. Anyone care to join me in bidding Ushuaia farewell?”

Ailsa nodded. “I’ll join you, Carina.”

More next time.

Promotions

Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, and Ultimate Escalation are participating in a Murders, Mysteries and the Paranormal promotion, running until the end of June for Mystery & Suspense / Paranormal, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Mystery & Suspense / Women Sleuths. There are currently ninety-four novels participating. Why not check it out?

https://books.bookfunnel.com/murdermysteriespromo3/f3fke10rs2

All of my novels are participating in June’s MAYHEM & MOTIVES: Mystery, Thriller, & Suspense Reads. There are 234 novels to choose from. Please stop in when you have a chance. You could find your next best author!

https://books.bookfunnel.com/mysthrillsus-jun/nwprjw7ql4

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, June 11, 2023

Randall Krzak

After another week of dry weather,  we’re finally getting a light rain. Thank goodness, as we certainly need it since it’s been dry for a couple of weeks and the ground (and plants) need it.

Last weekend’s small business market was a great success. I sold seventeen of my autographed novels, while two of Sylvia’s poetry books and sixteen of her laminated poetry sheets went as well.  Both of us were greatly pleased with the results.

Stop trying to write sentences and start trying to write stories. ~ James Patterson. Compliments of https://www.writerswrite.co.za/motivational-quotes-on-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 11 June, the second Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Barnabe Googe, English poet; Ben Johnson, English playwright and poet (Volpone, Alchemist); Anton Hildebrand, Dutch children’s book writer (Man in the Moon); George Wither, English writer (Abuses Stript and Whipt); J. H. Leopold, Dutch poet (translated Omar Khayyam); Alfred L. Kroeber, American anthropologist and author (Anthropologist looks at History); Renee Vivien, English-born poet, wrote in French; Edward Shanks, British poet and critic; Yasunari Kawabata, Japanese novelist (Thousand Cranes) and Nobel laureate (1968); Emil František Burian, Czech author and composer; Mary Lavin, Irish author (Tales from Bective Bridge); Hendrikus Berkhof, Dutch theologist (Church & Emperor; Irving Howe, American writer and critic (World of Our Fathers); Michael Meyer, English novelist and translator; William Styron, American novelist (Confess of Nat Turner, Sophie’s Choice); thol Fugard, South African anti-apartheid writer (Blood Knot); Christina Crawford, American actress and author (Mommie Dearest); Robert Munsch, Canadian children’s author (The Paper Bag Princess, Love You Forever); and Chris Rice, American contemporary Christian and folk music singer-songwriter (“When Did You Fall (In Love With Me)”), poet, and visual artist.

Any names familiar to you? There weren’t any this week for me. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

Slide1This week, I began the hard work on Frozen Conquest — getting the manuscript ready to submit to my publisher. I’ll finish my first edit pass later today.

Frozen Conquest received twenty reviews this week, bringing the total to 801!  Once again, there are plenty of good suggestions to improve my story and I’m greatly appreciative of the continued support. I’ve gone through all the reviews for chapters 1-39 and made note of suggestions I want to incorporate into the story.

Here’s another snippet:

Rufus unlocked a cabinet, pulled out his laptop, and booted it. While they waited, he turned to the others. “I placed all the applications on here. Eight are prior military, while the other two are FBI agents looking for a career change.”

“Aye.” CC sipped his dark German beer. “We’ll give you our opinions, but in the end, the choice is yours.”

Rufus nodded. “Admiral Blakely said we should pick four people, for now, giving us a decent QRF staff as we could split into two three-person teams, if necessary, although I think eight would be better.”

Trevor glanced at CC. “Fully agree with you. However, in our recent team build, the admiral indicated changes would need to wait for additional funding.”

“Aye. If everything works out, we’ll get the necessary funding in the next budget.”

 “I recommend picking four people you want right away.” Evelyn sipped her white wine. “Choose two others as alternates—they can be added to the team when the budget is sorted.” She smiled. “Of course, it depends on how many meet the threshold for being offered positions.”

“Makes sense.” Rufus clicked on the first file and opened it. “I’ve blocked the names in case any of us know the applicants and might show inadvertent bias. For now, they’ll be known as one through ten.”

“Aye. Excellent idea.” CC scooted forward.

* * *

Over the next three hours, the five Bedlam personnel reviewed the files. Two were rejected outright due to a lack of operational experience. While well-trained, they were desk jockeys and never served in a high-tension environment.

They took a short restroom break and replaced their empty drinks.

Rufus led them outside for a breath of fresh air.

“Will you keep this place when you’ve assembled your teams?” Evelyn glanced at the other houses on the street.

Rufus nodded and pointed to two properties, both larger than their current abode. “Yes. Those houses over there each have three bedrooms. Each member will have their own bedroom but will share the common areas. Meanwhile, August and I will stay here. It’s only two bedrooms but plenty of space for us.” He yawned. “Shall we get back to it?”

Everyone agreed, and they returned inside.

After an additional two hours, they reached a decision: one, three, four, six, eight, and nine.

“Shall we uncover their names and faces to see if we know any of them?” Rufus unblocked the hidden information and stepped through the six applicants.

“Wait.” CC raised a hand. “Number nine—I recognize his photo and name. In my opinion, you don’t want him.”

“Any valid reason? He seems very qualified.” Rufus frowned.

“Aye. He’s qualified, but that’s not the problem. He resents authority from those he considers junior to his abilities. In Afghanistan, he killed an Afghan captain after a disagreement. Charges were never filed—I think the rest of his team didn’t want to deal with any repercussions as they could end up like the captain.”

CC gazed into each of their faces. “He also tried to kill an American army colonel looking into the Afghan captain’s death—me.”

More next time.

Promotions

Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, and Ultimate Escalation are participating in a Murders, Mysteries and the Paranormal promotion, running until the end of June for Mystery & Suspense / Paranormal, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Mystery & Suspense / Women Sleuths. There are currently ninety-four novels participating. Why not check it out?

https://books.bookfunnel.com/murdermysteriespromo3/f3fke10rs2

All of my novels are participating in June’s MAYHEM & MOTIVES: Mystery, Thriller, & Suspense Reads. There are 234 novels to choose from. Please stop in when you have a chance. You could find your next best author!

https://books.bookfunnel.com/mysthrillsus-jun/nwprjw7ql4

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, June 4, 2023

Randall Krzak

After  another week of dry weather, we’ve had to start watering some of the shrubs and flower pots so we don’t loose the plants. The forecast for the next week is mainly sunny days. We’ll see what happens.

The June small business market began on Friday. While the foot traffic was light in the mall, it did pick up yesterday and hopefully it will be good today. So far, I sold ten of my autographed novels, while Sylvia sold one of her poetry books and thirteen of her laminated poetry sheets.

Get it down. Take chances. It may be bad, but it’s the only way you can do anything really good. ~William Faulkner. Compliments of https://www.writerswrite.co.za/motivational-quotes-on-writing/.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 4 June, the first Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Apollon Maykov, Russian poet; Servaas Daems [Peeter Klein], Flemish writer (Lute & Flute); John Blair Scribner, American magazine and book publisher; Mabel Lucie Attwell, English children’s author and illustrator; Daan Boens, Flemish poet (Man who sold his Wife); Jacques Roumain, Haitian writer (Gouverneurs de la Rosée); Patience Strong [Winifred Emma May], English poet and journalist; Willy-August Linnemann, Danish writer and journalist; Maurice Shadbolt, New Zealand writer (Season of the Jew); Robert Fulghum, American author (All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten); Joyce Meyer, American Charismatic Christian author and speaker; Daniel Topolski, British writer and rowing coach; Charles Dickinson, American author (Waltz in Marathon); Wendy Pini, American comic book writer (Elfquest); and Paul Stewart, British writer (The Edge Chronicles, Far Flung Adventures).

Any names familiar to you? There was one for me: Patience Strong. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

Slide1This week, I completed chapters the final two chapters (forty-three and forty-four) of Frozen Conquest. As always, I posted them to the two online subscription writing sites I use. Now the hard work begins–getting the manuscript ready to submit to my publisher!

Frozen Conquest received seventy-one reviews this week, bringing the total to 781!  Once again, there are plenty of good suggestions to improve my story and I’m greatly appreciative of the continued support.

Here’s another snippet:

Brown’s phone rang. Another interruption. Don’t these people realize I’m busy? He picked up. “Yes, what is it?”

Sawyer Johnson, head of Brown’s security team, chuckled. “Sorry to bother you, Mister Brown, but you wanted to be notified when the new demolitions expert arrived.”

“Show him to my office in thirty minutes.” Brown glanced at the clock. “No, make it an hour.”

“Uh … sir, he’s a she. I mean, the bomb expert is a woman.”

“So? I still want to meet her.”

“Yes, sir.”

An hour later, Sawyer knocked on Brown’s door.

“Come in.”

Sawyer and a petite brunette with large brown eyes and shoulder-length hair stepped into Brown’s office. “Sir, this is Madeleine Fingerhut.”

Brown remained seated, reached over his desk, and shook hands with the young woman. He gestured toward a visitor’s chair.

Sawyer stood back and leaned against the door.

She took the seat. “Please, call me Maddie.” A timid smile creased her face.

Brown nodded. “Is this your first visit to Antarctica, Madeleine—I mean Maddie?”

“Yes. I find it hauntingly beautiful.”

“I remember thinking something similar when I first came here. Just remember when you’re outside, Antarctica is very dangerous, especially on the ice.”

“Yes, sir.” She smiled. “I’m looking forward to working here. If I may ask, what happened to your previous explosives expert? I understand his departure was rather abrupt.”

A thin smile creased Brown’s face. “I guess you could call it an abrupt departure—he blew himself up.”

“Oh!” Maddie’s right hand covered her mouth. “I’m so sorry.”

Brown shrugged. “What are you sorry for? Did you know Samson?”

“Oh … well … no.” Her face reddened. “That’s what people say at unexpected news.”

“Hmm.” Brown picked up a folder from his desk and extracted two sheets of paper. “You have a very interesting resume, working in various exotic places around the world.” I know that people say 1 page is good for a resume. If she has a REAL interesting resume, then turn it into a curriculum vitae – “Wow, interesting pictures! How many people died in that one?”, “Newspaper articles. Very good! How high was the rubble?” “You took out how much of the government? With only one blast! Impressive.” George

“Yes, sir. For the past six years, I’ve spent most of my time outside the U.S.”

“I see.” Brown rubbed his chin. “Any boyfriends, a husband, or significant other? Who’s your next of kin?”

Maddie shook her head. “No, sir. Why do you ask?”

“Never mind—not important.” He waved a hand. “Just wondered who we should notify if something should happen to you.”

Maddie gulped. “I-I shall take all necessary precautions when I’m working.”

“It’s not just the ice which is dangerous.” Brown stared at her. “Danger comes in many forms.” He stood and extended a hand. “Welcome to Antarctica. Do a professional job, and we shall get along just fine.” He turned to Sawyer. “Escort her around the premises and show her to her quarters.”

“Yes, Mister Brown.” Sawyer opened the door to allow Maddie to leave first.

“One more thing, Maddie.”

She stood. “Yes, Mister Brown?”

“Sawyer will point out areas that are off-limits to all but a select few employees. These areas are marked with skull and crossbones signs. For your own safety, never venture inside unless you are summoned. If you require entrance, Sawyer will escort you.” He studied her. “It could be very devastating—for you.”

More next time.

Promotions

Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, and Ultimate Escalation are participating in a Murdrs, Mysteries and the Paranormal promotion, running until the end of June for Mystery & Suspense / Paranormal, Mystery & Suspense / Thriller, and Mystery & Suspense / Women Sleuths. There are currently ninety-four novels participating. Why not check it out?

https://books.bookfunnel.com/murdermysteriespromo3/f3fke10rs2

All of my novels are participating in June’s MAYHEM & MOTIVES: Mystery, Thriller, & Suspense Reads. There are 234 novels to choose from. Please stop in when you have a chance. You could find your next best author!

https://books.bookfunnel.com/mysthrillsus-jun/nwprjw7ql4

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

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Randall’s Ramblings, May 21, 2023

Randall Krzak

We had mixed weather this week, with the occasional outburst of sunshine but mainly overcast. At least projected periods of rain failed to materialize, with only a few light shows. Thursday was a warm day, so we went for another walk in the nearby Devilla Forest. Yesterday, we started painting the bedrooms, which other than an initial coat of off-white when we moved in, haven’t been touched. We’re using Dulux’s Celtic Forest, a pleasant green color.

“Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires some of the same courage that a soldier needs. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave men and women to win them. “– Ralph Waldo Emerson. Compliments of https://getfreewrite.com/blogs/writing-success/55-motivational-writing-quotes.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 21 May, the third Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Alexander Pope, English poet (The Rape of the Lock, translation of Homer); Emile Verhaeren, Belgian poet and writer (Les Flammes Hautes); Emil Ermatinger, Swiss literature historian; Everard Verachtert, Flemish linguist (I Can Speak Dutch Nicely pamphlet); Tudor Arghezi, Romanian writer; Manuel Pérez y Curis, Uruguayan poet; John Peale Bishop, American poet (This Side of Paradise); Suzanne Lilar, Belgian writer (Le burlador); Manly Wade Wellman, Angolan born American sci-fi author (After Dark, Devil’s Planet); Harold Robbins, American author (Moneychangers, Carpetbaggers, Betsy); Robert Creeley, American, poet and novelist (Island); Stanley Wells, English scholar of Shakespeare (Shakespeare Institute U of Birmingham); Dan Wakefield, American novelist (Going All The Way; New York In The Fifties), journalist (The Atlantic, 1968-81), and screenwriter; Gabriele Wohmann, German writer; Urs Widmer, Swiss writer; Janet Dailey, American Romance author; Jiggs Kalra, Indian food writer “Czar of Indian cuisine”; Andrew Neil, Scottish newspaper editor, (Sunday Times; Richard Appel, American writer and TV showrunner (Family Guy); and James Clancy Phelan, Australian novelist.

Any names familiar to you? There were two for me: Harold Robbins and Andrew Neil. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

Slide1This week, I completed chapters thirty-nine and forty of Frozen Conquest. As always, I posted them to the two online subscription writing sites I use.

Another twenty-two reviews came in this week, bringing the total to 670.  Once again, there are plenty of good suggestions to improve my story and I’m greatly appreciative of the support.

Here’s another snippet:

Ted Nicholson, chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve, studied the communique and shook his head. What the hell? Is this someone’s idea of a sick joke? He picked up the phone and punched a speed dial number. “Hey, Bruce. Did you receive a strange warning?”

“Yeah … but … Sorry, I had a mouth full of apple—just having my lunch.” Bruce McDermott, Governor of the Bank of England, sneezed. “Was going to call you. What nutcase dreamed this up?”

“I don’t know but telling the world’s central banks to do as they say, or we’ll be sorry doesn’t come across as a serious threat. What would attacking the LME do?”

Bruce laughed. “I haven’t the foggiest. The London Mercantile Exchange is better protected than your Fort Knox. I believe only a complete idiot would threaten the LME.”

“Whatever they want—” Warning alarms and shouting echoed through Ted’s handset. “What’s going on?”

“You won’t believe it—the LME just started shutting down their entire enterprise. I had a monitor tuned to activity on the floor.  When I spotted people running around more than normal, I turned up the sound. Let me turn it off.”

“Can you tell what’s happening?”

“Yes. It’s almost pitch black on the floor—mainly emergency lighting. None of the traders can do anything—their computer shut down.”

“Hmm.” Ted picked up the communique. “The warning did say darkness would descend. So what? As soon as the power’s restored, the computers will be rebooted, and it’ll be business as usual.”

“I think that’s the whole point, Ted. They, whoever they are, said it would be a warning of what’s to come if we don’t adhere to their demands. Wait a minute—looks like the LME’s coming back to life.”

“Excellent. So, Bruce. Should we pay attention to these crackpots? Obviously, they have a superb hacker to do this.”

“Well, Ted, we can always ignore the warning and see what happens. After all, they can’t take on all G7 countries, can they?”

Ted rubbed a finger across his pencil-like mustache. “I don’t know.”

* * *

At the close of the European bourses, everything flatlined on the floors of the CAC40, FTSE100, and the DAX. Traders shouted as they sensed the loss of millions and were powerless to do anything about it.

Less than two minutes later, everything returned to normal—almost.

A statement scrolled across every monitor:

You Have Been Warned.

More next time.

Promotions

The Kurdish Connection, Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, and Revenge are participating in Revenge promotion, running until the end of May for Action & Adventure, Romance, and Sci-Fi & Fantasy / Urban Fantasy. There are currently sixty-six novels participating. Why not check it out?

https://books.bookfunnel.com/revengetales/idh13vx4rm

All of my novels are participating in May’s MAYHEM & MOTIVES: Mystery, Thriller, & Suspense Reads. There are 234 novels to choose from. Please stop in when you have a chance. You could find your next best author!

https://books.bookfunnel.com/mysthrillsus-may/34otud00o2

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

 

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Randall’s Ramblings, May 14, 2023

Randall Krzak

Happy Mother’s Day to those in the United States and India who celebrate today. Enjoy your special day!

We had better weather this week, making it easier to get outdoors and do some gardening. We cut the grass again and also managed a bit of pruning, as well as moving a few plants to better locations.  Saturday was a warm and sunny day, so we went for a walk in the nearby Devilla Forest.

“The greatest part of a writer’s time is spent in reading, in order to write. A man will turn over half a library to make a book.” – Samuel Johnson. Compliments of https://getfreewrite.com/blogs/writing-success/55-motivational-writing-quotes.

So who was born on this date in history? Let’s find out who in the writing world was born on 14 May, the second Sunday of the month. (Compliments of https://www.onthisday.com/birthdays/):

Timothy Dwight, American theologian; Friedrich von Raumer, German historian, travel writer (Italy and the Italians); Alexander Kaufmann, German poet; Kurt Eisner, German socialist politician, revolutionary and journalist (President of the People’s State of Bavaria 1918-19); Louis Verneuil, French playwright; Edgar Wind, German art historian; Hal Borland, American author; Herta Ryder, British literary agent; Heloise Bowles, (Cruse) American advice columnist (Hints from Heloise); Herbert W. Franke, Austrian writer; Barbara Branden, Canadian writer and lecturer; Byron Dorgan, American politician and author (Rep-D-ND, 1981-92, Senator-D-ND 1992-2011); George Lucas, American film director, screenwriter, and producer (Star Wars; Indiana Jones; American Graffiti); Karin Struck, German feminist writer; ens Sparschuh, German writer; Gillian [Marucha] Bradshaw, American sci-fi author (Hawk of May); Anne Clark, British poet and avant garde recording artist; and Eoin Colfer, Irish writer.

Any names familiar to you? There was one for me: George Lucas. Whether you recognize anyone on the list or not, if today’s your special day I hope you have a great one!

My Work In Progress

Slide1This week, I completed chapters thirty-seven and thirty-eight of Frozen Conquest and posted them to the two online subscription writing sites I use.

Another twenty-three reviews came in this week, bringing the total to 648.  As always, there are plenty of good suggestions to improve my story and I’m greatly appreciative of the support.

Here’s another snippet:

“Admiral, I’ve made a decision on the places I could visit in Antarctica, which would give a plausible explanation for my participation with the SPA.” CC placed the printout in front of the admiral.

Highlighted in bold red were multiple locations. Two others were marked in green. “The red ones are the Soviet expeditionary cemetery, the Inexpressible Island Ice Cave, Shackleton’s Hut, the Terra Nova Hut, and Wilson’s Stone Igloo I mentioned to you before. The green ones are new—Scott’s Discovery Hut and the González Pacheco Shelter.”

“Will you survey all of them?”

“No. Only as many as needed to support my presence.” CC grinned. If we find what we’re looking for, I might not need to visit all of them to cover my movements. Of course, my interest in archaeology suggests I should stop at all of them.”

“Work together with Georgia and plot your itinerary. I’ll let Bertelot know you’re on the way. They should arrive in two to three days, so you’ll need a plan to get you from Ushuaia to their location in Antarctica. I’ll ask Bertelot for the coordinates, so we drop you at the right place.”

“Aye, Admiral. A question though. When you say drop, should I assume the plane will land somewhere, or will I use a chute?”

Both men laughed.

“CC, if you want to use a parachute, I’m sure something can be arranged. However, I was thinking of a more traditional arrival. It’ll also allow us to send some equipment and supplies with you.”

“Whew!” CC wiped the mock perspiration from his forehead. “Aye. I agree with the traditional arrival—been a long time since I jumped out of a plane. I think my parachuting days are long behind me—I hope.”

“We’ll make sure the Aquavit is docked somewhere before you begin the final leg of your journey.” The admiral waved a hand in dismissal.

More next time.

Promotions

The Kurdish Connection, Dangerous Alliance, Colombian Betrayal, and Revenge are participating in Revenge promotion, running until the end of May for Action & Adventure, Romance, and Sci-Fi & Fantasy / Urban Fantasy. There are currently sixty-six novels participating. Why not check it out?

https://books.bookfunnel.com/revengetales/idh13vx4rm

All of my novels are participating in May’s MAYHEM & MOTIVES: Mystery, Thriller, & Suspense Reads. There are 234 novels to choose from. Please stop in when you have a chance. You could find your next best author!

https://books.bookfunnel.com/mysthrillsus-may/34otud00o2

This brings us to an end for another week. I hope you found something of interest. If you have any suggestions for a topic you’d like to read about, please let me know. Until the next time, thank you for reading and hope you drop in again.

© Copyright 2023 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved