Tag: themes

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, August 13, 2017

Randall Krzak

Today marks the last day of the 15th annual Michigan Yard Sale Trail, spanning more than 200 miles. Although it officially begins on a Friday, many people now start setting up and selling on Thursday.

Friday and Saturday saw intermittent thunderstorms and hail, but Mother Nature couldn’t detract from the large numbers of people out searching for bargains or just having a wander. Today, the weather is supposed to be partly sunny with a high of 75F, a perfect day for checking out the sales.

We’ve met people from throughout Michigan and Canada at our tables. While we do like to sell things, most times the conversations are just as enjoyable. I even sold one autographs copy of The Kurdish Connection!

My Work in Progress

With all of the prep work for the annual sales, I didn’t manage to do as much writing as planned. However, the draft of chapter 22 of Dangerous Alliance is now completed and will be posted in a few days.

The Kurdish Connection recently received its tenth five-start review on Amazon. This one came from Preston Holtry, the author of the Morgan Westphal mystery series and the ARRIUS trilogy.

“The Kurdish Connection delivers a fast paced, Adrenalin charged tale of conspiracy, espionage and terrorism. The plot is diabolical and will keep you on the edge to the very end. Randall Krzak is a writer whose background has given him the knowledge and technical skills to craft a compelling novel requiring a seat belt while you read it. I look forward to more from this author.”

Any author would be thrilled with this kind of feedback. Perhaps you’ll be my next reviewer?

Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:

Hasan shook Gari. His slumped body slid toward the door, Gari’s head on his chest. When Hasan tried to move him, he pulled his hand back.

Blood.

“Allah, help us!”

Gari groaned as he placed a bloody hand on Hasan. “Time … to … leave—” Gari passed out.

***

Hasan continued out of the city, not stopping until he approached the area where they rested overnight. Of the eight men entering Kismaayo in these two Land Rovers, two fled the scene, battered and bruised, but for now, alive.

They wept.

***

Samatar brought the damaged Land Rover to a halt. He struggled to open the door, which fell off its hinges. Losing his balance, he fell into the sand.

Hasan rushed to his side. “Where are the others?”

Samatar coughed, blood seeping out of his mouth. “Tell … tell them we died with bravery in our hearts.” The man’s head lolled to the side as his body sagged.

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

With yard work and yard/garage sale preparation taking up a good portion of the week, I wasn’t able to prepare my thoughts about the novel I recently finished reading. Next time, I’ll have a review of Jack Du Brul’s The Lightning Stones and Neptune Island by Tony Reed.

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.

Tai Baker – this is a newly established website/blog by a musician and author. On Mondays, Tai will be posting about the various aspects of novel writing and from time-to-time, interviews with other authors. Check it out!

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  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!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

 

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, August 6, 2017

Randall Krzak

Welcome to August! Named for Augustus Caesar, it means dignified or imposing (among other definitions). Let’s hope Leo the Lion’s month brings fantastic weather as summer heads towards its finale. I also hope August brings inspiration to all.

My Work in Progress

Writing remained slow over the past week, so chapter 22 of Dangerous Alliance is still a work in progress. Overall, the summer has hindered my writing and reading to the point I’m falling behind with my self-imposed goals and deadlines. However, I can’t do everything at the same time, so the most important events and tasks come first, with writing time squeezed in whenever possible.

The Kurdish Connection recently received its ninth five-start review on Amazon. This one thrilled me as its written by an author with six published novels and five non-fiction works. Russell Moran had the following to say about The Kurdish Connection:

“A non-stop thriller may seem like an overdone phrase, but that is what Mr. Krzak has created in this book. Hard to believe that it’s his debut novel.

“The characters are so real that you feel affection – or fear, as the different groups look for or try to hide a deadly cache of Sarin gas canisters left over from Saddam Hussein.

“Krzak keeps you turning pages as you follow the different characters as they wend their way through the exciting plot. The proverbial “clock is ticking” as you watch the drama unfold. You find yourself saying, “no don’t do that, do this,” because the author has given you enough information to be a couple of steps in front of the protagonists.

“The “Bedlam Alpha” team was a brilliant move on the author’s part. It consists of butt kicking characters readily believable by a fan of thriller novels. The author has a fine ear for language, such as his Canadian character’s often ending a sentence with the familiar Canuck, “eh.”

“It was easy to give this excellent novel a five star rating. I look forward to his next book.”

Any author would be thrilled with this kind of feedback. Perhaps you’ll be my next reviewer?

Here’s a bit from the the sequel, Dangerous Alliance:

Gari grinned. “What do we need with armored vehicles like Harbi wants? We’ll take what we want from the Kenyans.” He pressed his hands down the front of his captain’s uniform to remove the wrinkles.

His driver, a gray-haired man named Hasan Fido, laughed. “You are a handsome captain. But why not a general?”

“Generals don’t chase across the desert. They send captains and sometimes majors.”

“Next time, I want to be a lieutenant.”

“We’ll need to find a lieutenant willing to part with his uniform.”

***

Hasan glanced at Gari. “When we reach the square, should I stop?”

“Yes, we want to make as much noise as possible. Since you speak Swahili, I want you to accompany me and yell at anyone in the way. We’ll spend a few minutes in the village establishing ourselves as a Kenyan military unit chasing al-Shabaab terrorists.”

“Aah! I understand. No one will suspect us when we pursue the terrorists.”

***

Gari woke before the rest of his men. He dreamed of death during the night. A premonition of what might happen today? My death or someone else?

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

I recently had the pleasure to read the first novel in a new series by Preston Holtry. My anticipation this would be as good as his Morgan Westphal mystery series was fulfilled.

Arrius Volume I: Sacramentum (Oath) introduces readers to an up and coming Roman soldier. He doesn’t follow blindly, but offers his opinion on matters, even to his own detriment. Arrius eventually becomes embroiled in the Roman fight against the Jews revolt in Judaea, focusing on his duty and little else.

Once the conquest is completed, Arrius still refuses to serve in Rome and at his request, ends up at Hadrian’s Wall. A complex but well-written story and I can’t wait to see whether he made the right choice!

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.

Preston Holtry – in case you haven’t read any of the Morgan Westphal series, here’s a link to learn more about Preston and his novels.  Enjoy!

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, July 30, 2017

Randall Krzak

This week saw the waves higher on the beach than at any time since we bought our property four years ago. Fortunately, we just had some of the grassy area cleaned to extend the beach inwards. Otherwise, we would have temporarily lost our entire beach!

KODAK Digital Still Camera

It took about three hours to clear the beach. Too windy to burn the stuff, I had to wait a couple of days for a calmer day. The day after I burned everything we had a minor repeat of the wave action–not as much to clear up. Looking good now!

My Work in Progress

Writing was slow over the past week, so chapter 22 of Dangerous Alliance is still underway. I had to spend time researching different aspects for the chapter, which cut into my writing time. I hope to have it completed and posted to the two subscriptions writing sites I use during the upcoming week. Soo will be making a revelation, so stay tuned for a snippet or two. 

In the meantime, here’s a bit more from an earlier chapter of Dangerous Alliance:

“We’ll leave tomorrow and be in place during the night. We’ll attack at dawn in two days.”

Gari nodded. “Okay, my men will hit Kismaayo at the same time. Two attacks at the same time might cause extra confusion.”

“Perhaps more difficulties if Busuri hits the refugee camp at the same time.”

“Agree, but Busuri does what he wants when he’s ready.” Gari spat out the chewed khat leaves. “Don’t know why Tahliil puts up with him.”

***

Back in the Toyota Land Cruiser, he pulled inside, followed by the other vehicles. A man jumped out of the last SUV, closed the barn doors, propping the poles back in place. He entered through a narrow side door as Harbi inspected the interior.

“Perfect. No one would suspect anyone would be hiding here.” He glanced up and studied the myriad of stars through the rafters. He turned to his men. “One hour rest and we head to our targets.”

The final vehicle remained on the bridge as 3M jumped out of the vehicle, carrying a backpack. Two others joined him, each with an identical bag.

“Come, while the others tend to their attacks, we’ll prepare our surprise.” 3M grinned at the others. “A farewell boom for when we leave Mombasa.”

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

I recently completed Deadly Impulse by Carolyn Arnold. The sixth book in the Madison Knight detective series; this one is one of the best plots yet. Beginning with an elderly dead woman in a wheelchair found near a hospital, Madison and her detective partner Terry strive to identify the woman and how she died. Before long, more bodies appear. Is this the work of one individual or total coincidence?

While hot on the trail of myriad suspects, Terry is anxiously awaiting the birth of his first child. At the same time, Madison is trying to decide if her current lover is getting to close or is it time to finally put aside things which had happened to her in the past and move forward with her social life.

Join Madison and Terry as they deal with their personal situations and begin to unravel the threads connecting the bodies and work their way through multiple suspects. Deadly Impulse is well written and an excellent read, which will keep you guessing about the perpetrators to the very end!

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. With all the extra curricular activities this week, I didn’t have a chance to browse around. I should have something to share with you soon.

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, July 23, 2017

Randall Krzak

Yesterday’s rainfall was a welcome relief as it broke the high humidity, which had descended upon us. Today is somewhat cloudy, cool and crisp, although thunderstorms are predicted. Looks like I’ll escape from cutting the grass for at least another day.

Our beach is looking good after having it cleaned as I mentioned last time. The only sign of imperfection is a ragged line of flotsam tossed onto the sand by the waves. A day or so in the sun and it’ll be easy to rake up and use as kindling for a nighttime fire.

My Work in Progress

Despite the continued pressures of summer’s chores and pursuits, I finally completed chapter 21 of Dangerous Alliance. It’s now posted on the two subscription writing sites I used and reviews are beginning to appear.

The next chapter is beginning to take shape. Since I use an outline for my stories, I already had an idea of where I wanted to go next. A bit of tweaking and I’m moving forward.

Writing has continued to take a back seat to other requirements–unfortunately! But it’s important to prioritize things and as a friend used to say, ‘do the needful’ before enjoyment. So I’m still putting the final touches on the next chapter of Dangerous Alliance. While I know my reviewers would be happy to begin reading now, I don’t want to make their work any more difficult than necessary, Of course, they’re always willing to provide their suggestions.

The person I assisted with his draft chapters was delighted with my feedback. He’s already asked if I’ll continue and will be sending me the next three chapters. I’m looking forward to providing further assistance.

Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:

“Where is the captain?” Dacar glanced around the bridge while his men detained the crew.

A small, white-haired man limped forward. “I’m the captain. Don’t hurt my men. What do you want?”

“Simple, Captain. Your ship now belongs to me. Behave, and no one will be hurt—except for the injured man who killed one of mine.”

Dacar pulled a slip of paper from his pocket and handed it to the captain. “Here are the coordinates for your new destination. Take us there. No tricks.” He pointed at the young-looking helmsman. “Or he dies.”

***

“I hope Dacar and Sahid are successful.” Harbi waved an AK-47 in the air. “These are excellent weapons, but we need more firepower and armored vehicles to take on the army.”

“What do you want? Perhaps we can make a trade.” Busuri launched a stream of spit into the shimmering sand where it sizzled in the intense heat.

“We have a few mortars, RPGs, grenades. I want—Hummers.”

Gari stared at Harbi and shook his head. “Dreamer.”

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

I recently read Devil’s Door by AJ Wallace. The second novel in the Sideways Eight series, Devil’s Door picks up where Mindfield left off. Having successfully identified who had been killing little girls, FBI Special Agents Faraday and Murphy are now embroiled in a new case.

Brutal murders are appearing, each with a grisly similarity. The perpetrator is collecting trophies while at the same time leaving a calling card. It’s up to Charley and Sean to put an end to the trail of corpses appearing across the United States. Join them as they uncover clues leading toward the killer. What caused the attacker to commit his crimes? The answer will surprise you. Grab a copy, go to your favorite reading place, and follow our special agents as they attempt to solve another crime spree. You’ll be glad you did!

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. Unfortunately, I ran out of time this week and didn’t find anything to share with you. I hope to have something next week.

I’m afraid that’s all I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.

 

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, July 16, 2017

Randall Krzak

It’s hard to believe we’re in the middle of July already. The days are certainly rushing by. Too bad there isn’t a way to slow time so we could enjoy more of the summer days,

We joined with several neighbors to have our beach cleaned. Since buying the property four years ago, the water levels have risen and we’ve lost about ten to fifteen feet of beach. Since there was a grassy area between the bottom of the bluff and the sand, we also had the company clear some of the grass. Now our beach is also deep like it was and if the water should recede, we’ll have even more beach!

My Work in Progress

Writing has continued to take a back seat to other requirements–unfortunately! But it’s important to prioritize things and as a friend used to say, ‘do the needful’ before enjoyment. So I’m still putting the final touches on the next chapter of Dangerous Alliance. While I know my reviewers would be happy to begin reading now, I don’t want to make their work any more difficult than necessary, Of course, they’re always willing to provide their suggestions.

I did spend some time over the past week finishing a review of someone’s draft chapters. They’re not part of the two subscription writing sites I used, but someone who asked for some assistance, so I’ve obliged. It’ll be a great story when it’s finished and I look forward to reading the entire novel.

Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:

A moonless but starry night provided sufficient light for the passage of the two small speedboats along the river and into the Indian Ocean. The latest information from Rooble indicated a tanker left the Suez Canal during the previous afternoon, bound for South Africa.

As the first rays of dawn shimmered over the glass-like surface, Dacar reckoned they were about 300 miles east of Kismaayo. He whistled, waking the men on his boat.

“Up. Time to prepare.” Dacar grabbed his AK-47 and checked his ammunition. The others gathered their weapons. Metal clicks indicated magazines were seated and ready to go. Two of the men loaded their RPGs, additional rockets ready nearby.

“Dacar! On the horizon—a ship!”

“We wait until they pass. Perhaps three hours. The sun will be in their eyes if they scan the area where we are.” The others nodded their understanding. A couple of men nudged each other and grinned. They glided knives across small whetstones, sharpening the blades should they be required.

Dacar turned to one of the men holding an RPG. “Fire a warning shot in front of them. Don’t hit the ship.”

A wavering contrail signaled the flight of the grenade, which sailed over the bow and into the water. With a prearranged signal, the others began shooting above the deck, not aiming at any particular target.

The first pirate to reach the railing fired his AK-47 into the air. He lifted his leg to climb aboard. His body jerked. He fell–silent–into a watery tomb below.

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

Over the past three weeks, I’ve continued to read novels by some of my favorite authors, including Brad Thor and Clive Cussler.  I had hoped to provide a review or two this week, but time hasn’t been on my side. I’m also searching for good novels to read and review from lesser-known authors.

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.

Mississippi Writers Pathway – a new site dedicated to writing by Mississippi writers. Take a look and you might run into an old friend or two.

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.

 

 

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, July 9, 2017

Randall Krzak

Shimmering water, ripples gently cascading toward the shore, with brilliant sunshine and a blue background dotted with fluffy clouds. A light breeze to keep the morning’s heat and humidity away. What a start to the day!

KODAK Digital Still CameraConeflowers, delphiniums, and daisies are also enjoying the weather. Two years ago we scattered the seeds from several coneflowers along the area. Not many flowers last years, but what an abundance today!

We took a dozen photos but I’ll only share this one for now. Hope you enjoy.

My Work in Progress

My writing continues despite the outdoor activities, although at a much slower pace. I guess this is the price to pay for living along the lake and having such a varied environment to enjoy. The next chapter of Dangerous Alliance is completed, but needs a bit more work before posting to the two subscriptions writing sites I use.  In the meantime, I’ve also been updating my outline to keep my story and its various threads in order.

More from Dangerous Alliance:

When Dacar and the three lieutenants entered the tent, Tahliil sat on a three-legged campstool. On the sand, a pile of rocks, and a stick. He smoothed an area of sand.

“Sit. New plan. Came last night.” He drew a rough outline of the Somali and Kenyan coasts in the sand with the branch. Picking up several stones, he placed two in Kenya, one in Somalia, and one in the Indian Ocean.

“Dacar. No more freighters. Need weapons. Take tankers for North Koreans.” Tahliil tapped the stone in the area representing water.

Dacar nodded. “When should I begin?”

“Today. Take Sahid and others. Capture ships. Change name and go Si-Sihan—”

“Sihanoukville.”

“Yes. Try not kill crew. Perhaps more money.” Tahliil pointed to the rock farthest away from the Somali border. “Harbi. Your target is Mombasa. Attack whatever you want. Keep Kenyans too busy to help tankers.”

“Understand, Tahliil. I must scout the areas for targets before choosing one.”

Tahliil glanced at Busuri. “You like girls. Go to refugee camp. Take more. No kill.”

Busuri’s eyes brightened. “What about ra—”

“No rape, no torture, no kill. Hostages.” Tahliil glared at Busuri until his gleam disappeared. “Or I do same to you.”

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been reading novels by some of my favorite authors, including Brad Thor and Clive Cussler.  I’ll provide reviews next time. I’m also searching for good novels to read and review from lesser-known authors. More later.

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.

Ann Everett – Check out Ann’s ‘Five on Friday’ blog. The latest one has an interview with yours truly, so if you want to learn more about me and my writing, this is your chance.

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, July 2, 2017

Randall Krzak

Happy Fourth of July! 

Randall’s Ramblings will be taking today off but will return again next Sunday with more updates on my writing, some tidbits from Dangerous Alliance, and my next book review.

Stay tuned!

 

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, June 25, 2017

Randall Krzak

It’s hard to believe we’re already in the last weekend of June. The year is speeding by. It didn’t seem that long ago I was still removing snow. Now, the summer pastimes of grass cutting, weeding, and painting are intertwined with kayaking, boating, and relaxing on the beach. Still too cold to get into the water, except for the more adventurous.

Each morning, there’s a symphony of birdcalls as the waterfront comes alive. The marigolds are in full bloom and producing new flowers at a fantastic rate. Meanwhile, the coneflowers and Shasta Daisies are beginning to bloom, as are the delphiniums and lavenders.

My Work in Progress

Despite the various outdoor pursuits, my writing continues, albeit at a slower pace. The next chapter of Dangerous Alliance is still in draft, but nearly completed at this time. I’ve already started working on the following chapter, hoping to post both to my subscription writings site within the next week for review.

Last week, I mentioned a plot for another book had popped into my head, involving a former D.C. homicide detective and a former DEA agent. I’ve shared the synopsis with a couple of regular reviewers and did some tweaking. Now that I’m satisfied with the synopsis, I’ve put it aside, but believe this will make a great beginning to a new series. While it will initially begin in the U.S., Canada and Mexico will also be involved.

More from Dangerous Alliance:

“Time for your call. They’re putting you through to Prime Minister Smith.”

Several clicks echoed on the line before a deep and mellow voice spoke. “Afternoon, Sir Alex. How are you?”

“Fine, Prime Minister. Yourself?”

“Couldn’t be better, although I did take a beating at yesterday’s Prime Minister’s Questions. I should know better than to let the opposition party needle me.”

“Sir, as long as we’ve known each other, the opposition always maintains the upper hand.”

“Quite. As you’re aware, I’m flying to America next month to meet with the new president. I’d appreciate a candid appraisal from you before my meeting with him.”

***

No, go right ahead. I’ll be giving Admiral Blakely a call in a few minutes, and I’ll head out early. Have a meeting to attend at the Club—something about raising fees.”

“Okay. Good night, Sir Alex.”

He nodded as he perused another file. After ticking several boxes on the attached routing slip, he tossed the file aside. Sir Alex stood, stretched his back to work out the kinks from sitting too long, and reached for the gray and brown secure telephone.

“Hello.” Admiral Blakely’s gruff voice rifled through the line.

Sir Alex held the receiver away from his ear. “Richard. Alex here. How are you?”

“Still breathing. Yourself?”

“The same.” Both men chuckled before Sir Alex continued. “Winnie mentioned you withholding some hush-hush information from me?”

Perhaps we’ll learn about the hush-hush information next time.

Books I’m Reading

I’ve been finishing up a historic thriller for an author so I can provide a pre-release review. Unfortunately, I can’t share anything on this one yet. In the meantime, here are my thoughts on several other books:

Russell Moran creates a fantastic political/terrorism thriller with The Shadows of Terror (Patterns Book 1). A FBI agent, a CIA operative, and a NYPD detective are embroiled in the ultimate battle against terrorism–the rise of homegrown terrorists who are planning a massive attack with the potential for thousands of casualties. They look like us, speak like us, and live among us. How do you tell the terrorists from everyday citizens? Rick Bellamy, an FBI counter-terrorism expert is joined by a CIA official named Buster, and Bennie Weinberg, a NYPD detective and psychiatrist. Together, they create a formidable team, but will they be able to identify the terrorists hidden in plain sight?

Russell’s characters are top-notch, believable, and not afraid to seek help from others, no matter who they might be. The Shadows of Terror is well written, filled with plenty of twists and turns, and will keep you turning the pages. I’ll definitely be grabbing a copy of The Scent of Revenge: Book Two of the Patterns Series!

Wrong Place Wrong Time by David P. Perlmutter, is based on true events and is a fascinating read. How can a real estate agent end up falling on such hard times? Despite his best efforts, life seemed to have a different set of priorities for David. How on earth can one person be subjected to so many things going wrong? Even when David’s trying to do what is right, he ends up on the wrong side of the law.

I won’t go into the events as I don’t want to spoil anyone’s reading, but you definitely need to grab a copy and settle in for a wild ride. All I could do was nod, shake my head, laugh, and cover my eyes with David’s exploits. One thing for sure, Wrong Place Wrong will make you satisfied with whatever good things come your way. Well-written and described and worth a read!

I recently had the opportunity to read E. Rachael Hardcastle’s novel, Finding Pandora: Book One: World. This is the first of four in the Finding Pandora series. While I must admit Miss Hardcastle’s work is a bit outside my favorite genres, I’m glad I’ve taken the opportunity to read the writing of an up and coming author.

Finding Pandora: Book One: World introduces readers to a myriad of races, each having distinct powers about 7,000 years in the future. Humans still exist, but as a minority culture, with vamprys, traveling angels, and others, bringing a new perspective to their planet, Haeylo.

Arriete Monroe, one of the few humans on Haeylo, reluctantly agrees to help her former boyfriend. He convinces her his current fiancée (and Arriete’s friend) needs her help. Matters quickly escalate as what should have been a simple journey changes Arriete’s life. She is chosen to be the savior by a being referred to as the Recruit. With her new abilities (you’ll have to read the book to find out more) and the help of others, we’re taken on a whirlwind tour of different cities and worlds as they battle against the evil spewing forth from the original Pandora’s box. This is an action-packed story, which will also appeal to those who enjoy supernatural fantasy romances. When time permits, I’ll check out the sequel.

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites.

DeAnna Jackson – DeAnna writes about life and parenting. A fascinating site and well worth a visit.

Readers Abode – Check out my interview with author E. Rachael Hardcastle.

Devil’s Door – The second novel by AJ Wallace in the Sideways Eight series was released on June 15th and it’s another winner. Why not grab yourself a copy?

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.

 

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, June 18, 2017

Randall Krzak

To all the fathers out there, Happy Father’s Day!  I won’t see my son today as he lives in D.C. and came up for Mother’s Day. However, he sent me a great Father’s Day card and also an Amazon gift card. Now, I can buy some more novels to read!

My Work in Progress

The continuing improvement in the weather means more outdoor activities. I wish I could report I was doing something exciting, but I wasn’t. Cutting grass, pulling weeds, and doing some painting don’t qualify as fun, but they are things that do require regular upkeep.  The marigolds are a fantastic splash of oranges, reds, and yellows, and it won’t be long before the daisies and coneflowers will be popping out.

At least I was able to continue writing when time permitted. I haven’t finished the next chapter of Dangerous Alliance yet, but it’s well underway and should be posted to the two subscription writing sites I use by next weekend.

Two nights ago, a plot for another book popped into my head. This one will involved a former D.C. homicide detective and a former DEA agent. Perhaps later, I’ll provide a glimpse into this one.

Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:

“Eat.” Asad stabbed at the roasted meat with a sharp knife. “Take the kibhis and I will cut you a piece of goat.”

With their first nourishing meal since being abducted, the women gobbled the bread and meat, licking the juices from their fingers.

“When you are finished, you may go to the wooden huts. The one on the left is the female toilet.” Asad nodded toward the structures. “Afterward, return to your building. Remain until the sun begins to rise.”

***

Jamiila peeked out the doorway. Men carrying torches gathered at the wall. On the ground, a body lay motionless.

Asad turned around, glaring at the captives. “I told you the penalty for trying to escape.” He kicked the body until it rolled over, face up.

Jamiila gasped—the woman chosen to lead the other group of captives. I never knew her name. She sank to her knees, covering her face. Why?

A wild animal screamed in the distance. Another howled as if recognizing the stench of death.

“Heed my warning. Or you will be like her.”

Perhaps a bit more next time.

Books I’m Reading

I’ve been finishing up a historic thriller for an author so I can provide a pre-release review. Unfortunately, I can’t share anything on this one yet. Next time I have two reviews planned: The Shadows of Terror (Patterns Book 1) by Russell Moran and Wrong Place Wrong Time by David P. Perlmutter.

Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. This week, I’d like to share a link to the release of a new crime novel.

Devil’s Door – The second novel by AJ Wallace in the Sideways Eight series was released on June 15th and it’s another winner. Why not grab yourself a copy?

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.

 

 

Randall's Ramblings

Randall’s Ramblings, June 11, 2017

Randall Krzak

A warm breeze, brilliant sunshine, birds twittering, and no rain in the forecast–what a start to the day!

My Work in Progress

Despite the better weather and outdoor activities, I managed to finally complete another chapter of Dangerous Alliance and post it to the two subscription writing sites I use. Overall, initial responses are good, but as always, there is room for improvement. Chapter twenty-one is now underway. I’ve also been busy refining my outline, dropping a chapter here and adding another there to improve the story’s flow.

 

Books I’m Reading

After several attempts to consolidate my thoughts on a couple of books I recently read, I’ve finally been able to do so.

First up today is Jack Du Brul’s River of Ruin (Philip Mercer Book 5). Primarily set in the jungles of Panama, a friend of Mercer’s is searching for a legend. Inca riches, referred to as the Twice-Stolen Treasure are purported to be buried in Panama.  Mystery, intrigue, danger, and a beautiful woman all vie for Mercer’s attention. Mr. Du Brul weaves another spellbinding story, taking his readers on a realistic journey, which might have serious consequences for the United States if Mercer is unsuccessful in piecing the puzzle together and grabbing the prizes. However, a Chinese organization is trying their best to recover the prize, even if it means the elimination of Mercer and his friends. Another great plot from a master storyteller!

Next up is The Thousand Years War by Angel Medina. What begins with a normal winter’s day in New York changes the lives of four people as they end up in a virtual mirror image of Earth, but one which is under attack by an evil presence who wants the planet for himself. Can Angel (the main character) and the others defeat evil and maintain the virtual Earth for mankind or will they fail and the real planet falls into dark ages?

Mr. Medina uses well-crafted characters, a vivid imagination, and a gift for building an excellent plot. has written an action-packed story with excellent twists and turns. Even if your don’t normally read this genre, I think you’ll find the story worthwhile. I wish him every success as he continues his writing journey.

 Blogs/Author Pages/Writing Sites I’d Like to Share

I’ve expanded this section from being only about blogs that I follow but also introduce you to some new authors and a few writing sites. With all the extra curricular activities this week, I didn’t have a chance to browse around. I should have something to share with you soon.

I’m afraid that’s all the time I have today. Hope you’ve found something of interest or at least useful for your own writing.  Until the next time, thank you for reading!

© Copyright 2017 Randall Krzak. All rights reserved.