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Randall’s Ramblings, December, 17, 2017

Randall Krzak

It’s been a snowy and cold week, causing the birds and deer to hit our feeders harder than normal. Glad to see all of the wildlife, even though we know they struggle when the ground’s covered, making it difficult for them to forage.

Even our indoor-outdoor cats have rarely ventured outside. One looks at us like we’re crazy when we open the door for him to go out. He’ll sit and stare outside, but any attempt to usher him outside is met with a quick dash to warmer areas of the house. At least the next few days are supposed to be warm enough to melt some of the snow. The ice that had formed at the shoreline began breaking up yesterday, and once again we could hear the waves crashing.

My Work in Progress

My final giveaway of The Kurdish Connection ends tonight at midnight, PST. This event is hosted on Goodreads and if you don’t have a copy, head over and enter the contest.

This week I concentrated on reciprocal reviews for those who have worked so hard on my behalf regarding Dangerous Alliance. Reviews are still coming in as readers go through the final chapters.

I also did some additional research for the next chapter of Carnage in Singapore. As with all of my stories, I try to get the settings as accurate as possible, and when I haven’t been to a specific location or know someone who has, online research tools come into play.

Here’s a snippet from Carnage in Singapore:

Unsure if wild creatures or savage humans created the path, she didn’t care. All she wanted was to escape.

The pain in her chest easing, she staggered away. She struggled in the mud and stumbled, her foot caught in the roots of a nearby tree. She fell to the ground, her hands sinking into the thick ooze.

“Help!”

Who would save her in the middle of nowhere? She kicked at the root and twisted her leg until her foot popped free.

Craack!

Back on her feet, she pumped her knees to escape the sludge, her heart rate accelerating as panic skyrocketed.

A bolt of lightning lit the sky, striking a nearby tree. Shadows slithered in front of her, blocking her way forward.

She turned, searching for an escape route.

Rough hands grabbed her by the shoulders in a vise-like grip and threw her to the ground.

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

I’ve been reading a number of books but haven’t collected my thoughts yet. I hope to have one or two reviews posted next week.  In the meantime, I had the opportunity to read a short story by up and coming author, M.D. Neu, which will be released on Amazon tomorrow, December 18th.

A Dragon for Christmas is a lighthearted short story packed with plenty of emotions. Will Carmen get the dragon of her dreams for Christmas? The family and the facility staff are pulling for her, which is especially important given her curse. Like her best friend, Mattie, both use the bond with their dragons as a means to cope with their affliction. Will they always be together?

A perfect story for this time of year-bringing hope out of despair as we watch both girls mature and deal with what life tosses at them. An excellent story told in a way which is suitable for children and adults of all ages. Well done, M.D.!

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.

Reader’s Abode – Check out the bi-weekly blogs from the site’s group of international writers (including yours truly). Plenty of new things to read no matter what genre you prefer.

MD Neu – writer and published author, Follow MD’s writing journey and check out his interviews with other authors. His short story, The Reunion, is now available through Amazon, and his new story, A Dragon For Christmas, will be released tomorrow.

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

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Randall’s Ramblings, November 19, 2017

Randall Krzak

Each morning when I head towards the computer, I’m met by various four legged members of the family. Are they glad to see me–you bet! At least, until I pop the top on their food. If I’ve chosen wisely, they hunker down and begin eating. It I’ve goofed, I know in seconds, as they walk away, leaving the tender morsels alone.

I’ve tried playing the ‘that’s all you get, so eat it’ game. Sometimes this works, but other times, I’m not so lucky. There’s no doubt who is setting the rules–and it isn’t me.

My Work in Progress

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As many of you are aware, The Kurdish Connection is my debut novel. I’m holding my first giveaway on Goodreads, between November 23rd and December 6th.

I’ll be giving away five autographed copies of The Kurdish Connection. Unfortunately, due to exorbitant international shipping costs, I’ll only be including those with U.S. mailing addresses in this one.

However, I’ll also be running two more giveaways in early December, one on Amazon and the other on Goodreads. Both will be for Kindle versions, so this will open up for those residing elsewhere. Stay tuned for the Kindle giveaway dates!

The inclement weather continued over the past week, so I was able to spend more time writing. I’m pleased to report the entire first draft of Dangerous Alliance is now posted to the two subscription websites I use. Despite November being NaNoWriMO month, reviews are trickling in–a total of 605 chapter reviews as of this morning! What a fabulous bunch of supporters. They’ll be quick to point out what’s working and what does, so I can make necessary changes.

This week also saw the initial start to the first chapter of Carnage in Singapore, the third book in my Bedlam series. This one will feature the Bedlam Charlie team. More about this next week.

Books I’m Reading

Last night, I finished reading Two Roads to Sunday by Carol W. Huff and Arthur F. Torrance, IV. This is the first Western novel I’ve read in years, and I couldn’t have picked a better one for my return to this genre.

Dirt, a wanderer, is seeking revenge for the murder of his brother, Owen. Meanwhile, Sarah and her husband, accompanied by their daughter Cassie, join a wagon train heading west. Join Dirt and Sarah on their individual journeys as they seek their respective futures. Sharing their joys and sorrows, you’ll be on an adventure which will energize your emotions.

Events lead to them finally meeting each other Will this be a joyful union or a devastating one? You’ll have to read for yourself, as I don’t want to spoil anything. With well-crafted characters, a superb plot, and an unexpected outcome, I thoroughly enjoyed Two Roads to Sunday and look forward to reading further novels by these 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.

Reader’s Abode – Check out the bi-weekly blogs from the site’s group of international writers (including yours truly). Plenty of new things to read no matter what genre you prefer. Click on the events tab to learn about our exciting book give-away! A new review of The Scourge and interview with author Roberto Calas will be published 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.  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

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Randall’s Rambling, October 15, 2017

Randall Krzak

Here we are in the middle of October. Hard to believe, as it seems like summer was still here a few days ago. No doubt about it–the wet, dreary days are reminiscent of previous Octobers, although we’re still having 60F+ temperatures.

Despite the weather, necessary yard work continued. It was a good time to trim all of the pesky unwanted shoots growing up through the pine trees. With almost 100 trees, it took some doing, but almost finished. Now, I’ll wait for the rain to stop so I can bundle the stuff and have a beach fire (wind permitting).

My Work in Progress

Two more autographed copies of The Kurdish Connection went to new homes during the past week. Great to have continued interest in my debut novel. I just need to figure out how to increase the online sales and I’ll be delighted. Blair Howard (I provided a review of his first Harry Starke novel last week) provided me with insights into his marketing program. All I need to do is apply his recommendations and see what happens.

This past week saw the completion of two more Dangerous Alliance chapters. Both are posted to the two subscription writing sites I use for review by my fellow writers. As one reviewer said, “Plots, plots and more plots. I look forward to each additional chapter and the characters are becoming more real as details of the life unfold.  I’m sure it will be one of those books that you couldn’t put down, an ‘all night read’ as they say.”

The next chapter is also underway. I mentioned last week I had revised my outline. I did this again and believe I’ve tightened the last third of the novel and will complete with about forty-seven chapters. It still should be close to 100,000 words before the editing phase begins.

Here a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:

“Tahliil! At last, I’ve reached you. I’ve been trying for hours.”

“We had bad sandstorm. It stopped. The sky is clear.”

“I need your advice, Tahliil.” Dacar explained what had transpired since they captured the oil tanker.

“Dacar, make Greeks fear you. Kill one.”

***

“How, why? Who would do this?” Alf clenched his hands into tight fists, his knuckles whitening. An occasional tear fluttered down his face as he tried to come to terms after witnessing human brutality for the first time.

“May I have your attention, please?” David stood on a small crate. “We volunteered to help those in this camp who are in distress and require assistance. Sometimes, evil forces take advantage of those who are weak.”

David wiped his eyes before continuing. “We must be strong for those who remain and depend upon us. We’ll never forget what’s happened, but we must continue our work.”

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been reading two novels in Kerry J. Donovan’s new series, Ryan Kaine. Since I’m doing an interview with Kerry, which will be posted in Readers Abode next month, I’ll hold my reviews and include them at that time.

I’m almost finished with another Dane Maddock Adventure, by David Wood. Stay tuned for my comments next week.

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.

MD Neu – writer and soon-to-be published author, Follow MD’s writing journey and check out his interviews with other authors. He’ll be releasing a short story on October 23rd, just in time for Halloween!

Reader’s Abode – Don’t forget to check out the bi-weekly blogs from the site’s group of international writers (including yours truly). Plenty of new things to read no matter what genre you prefer. Click on the events tab to learn about our exciting book give-away!

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

 

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Randall’s Ramblings, September 24, 2017

Randall Krzak

According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the September or Autumnal Equinox began on Friday. Someone forgot to inform Mother Nature. In the past three days, we’ve had temperatures ranging from 89F to 91F. Certainly not fall weather, but I won’t complain. During the summer, we only had a single day reach 90F, and that was on June 12th!

Today’s supposed to be a bit cooler, only 83F, with more seasonal temperatures returning by the end of the coming week. At least there’s still plenty of sunshine!

My Work in Progress

It’s been another good week regarding my progress with Dangerous Alliance. I completed another chapter (26) and started on the next. Since I hope to complete the entire first draft by the end of the year, this is good news. However, I’ll have to step it up to achieve my goal.

In addition to working on Dangerous Alliance, I spent a bit of time casting characters for Carnage in Singapore, the next novel in the Bedlam series. The initial synopsis is already completed, I know where the Bedlam team will be headquartered, and at least one individual stepped forward to be on the operational team.

Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:

Stavros grinned, his teeth covered with blood. “What’s the matter? Are my men too smart for you?” Stavros spat on the deck to clear his mouth.

Sahid placed the point of his knife under the captain’s left eye. “How did they escape? Where did they go?”

***

“Commander, a signal from the South Africans.”

“Thank you, Lieutenant.” Commander Ben Pierce, commanding officer of HMS Snapdragon, a type-45 destroyer, glanced at the short paragraph before handing the paper back.

“Seems the Somali pirates might be causing problems again, Lieutenant.”

“Yes, sir. Shall we give pursuit?”

Commander Pierce laughed at Lieutenant Smith’s enthusiasm. “Since we don’t know where the Zeus is, how do you propose we give pursuit? Pass the word to Navy Command Headquarters. We’ll wait for orders.”

Perhaps more next time.

Books I’m Reading

I’ve been on a roll reading novels by Paul Kemprecos. Recently, I finished Death in Deep Water, the third in the Aristotle Socarides series. The college dropout, former Marine, former Boston detective continues to stumble along with his private eye business, at least when Aristotle’s not out fishing.

As with the first two in the series, this is another fast-paced read with plenty of action from beginning to end. This time “Soc” might be in the water over his head, when he’s hired by an aquatic park to clear a staff member of murder. Sounds something made for a private eye–except the supposed culprit is Rocky, a ten-ton killer whale!

With the help of a beautiful dolphin trainer, Soc gets to work. In the background, someone is trying to stop him at all costs. Just when you think you know who is behind the entire plot, another suspect arises. A great story, filled with plenty of twists and turns. I can’t wait to read the next one!

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.

Authors Interviews – Fiona Mcvie interviews the authors she loves to read. This week it’s my turn!

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

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Randall’s Ramblings, September 3, 2017

Randall Krzak

Let’s hope the water subsided in Texas and Louisiana so people and pets can begin putting their lives back together. Mother Nature can certainly unleash a storm with a vengeance.

For readers in the U.S., I hope your Labor Day weekend is off to a good start. Considered the official end of summer, children will be heading back to school next week if they didn’t already start during the past few days. 

We had excellent weather yesterday, with more promised for today. Bright skies, temperatures in the low 70s, and just the occasional hint of a breeze–a great way to begin September. Hope the forecasters have it right as we plan to hold another garage sale.

My Work in Progress

My writing has slowed over the past couple of weeks due to unavoidable external circumstances. Therefore, chapter 23 of Dangerous Alliance isn’t quite ready to post for my reviewers to critique. Perhaps over the next few days.

Here’s a bit more from Dangerous Alliance:

“Move.” The man pointed to his left, away from the crowds.

***

A hand grabbed his shoulder.

Soo gasped and swung at the unknown assailant.

The man caught Soo’s arm in mid-swing. “Ambassador Soo. What are you doing?”

“I-It’s you.”

“Yes. We were supposed to meet fifteen minutes ago.” Kim gave Soo a glance from head to toe. “Did something happen?”

“No. Yes.” Soo’s shoulders sagged. “T-The men who kidnapped me. They’re here.”

Kim glanced around. “Where?

***

“We must put our story together. Sung will ask why we stayed out of contact for several days. He might ask both of us.”

“I can understand him asking me, Kim, but why you? You’re my aide, nothing more.”

“True, but Sung is devious when he suspects anyone.” If you realized the truth, you’d require more than tea. When do you meet with our leader?”

“In two days.”

Perhaps a bit more next time.

Books I’m Reading

As promised a couple of posts ago, here are my thoughts regarding Neptune Island by Tony Reed. This is a fast-paced adventure, with Mr. Reed’s Lincoln Monk leading the way throughout the adventure. Set on an Asian island, Monk, a former police officer, is embroiled in a billionaire’s plot to lull the world into his way of thinking until it’s too late.

Neptune Island is an easy read, with plenty of action from the first page until the finale. While sometimes, things might seem to be turning worse for Monk and his associates, it’s hard to put this one down.

I also read Cool Blue Tomb by Paul Kemprecos. I’ve already read some of his work when he collaborated with Clive Cussler, but this was the first time I’ve read a novel solely written by Paul. I can certainly understand by Mr. Cussler decided to work his him!

A college dropout, former marine, ex-cop turned private eye, Aristotle Socarides stumbles from one precarious situation to another. Unlike some main characters who never get a scratch, Aristotle is frequently on the wrong end of an altercation. Despite this, he takes us on a journey through Cape Cod as he puts aside his day job as a fisherman to search for buried treasure to uphold his family’s honor. I enjoyed this story so much I’ve already read 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.

Readers Abode – Our second collection of short stories and poetry has now been released. Drop by for a read–there’s bound to be a genre of interest for you!

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

 

 

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Randall’s Ramblings, August 27, 2017

Randall Krzak

Hi folks. Due to a myriad of uncontrollable external factors, I haven’t had a chance to create this week’s ramble. Please check back next weekend!  Many thanks!

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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

 

 

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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

 

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Randall’s Ramblings, May 7, 2017

Randall Krzak

Brilliant sunshine bouncing off the one-foot waves this morning created a wall of intense light, making it difficult to see. When my eyes could refocus, not a cloud could be seen. A crisp morning with a slight breeze to be sure, but very welcome after several days with thick, heavy clouds and blustering winds.

And so begins another Sunday on the lake as the waves continue to smooth the sand, having removed the stones which infiltrated over the past couple of weeks. Now there is a smooth beach, untouched by humans, with a thin line of nature’s refuse along the shore. Easy to clean up and make the beach perfect!

My Work in Progress

In case you missed it, The Lakeshore Guardian, a monthly newspaper on the Thumb of Michigan provided a review of The Kurdish Connection. It’s now linked on my publisher’s website, Moonshine Cove Publishing, LLC (just click on their name to link to the article). They also added a worthy sentence: “Randall Krzak’s novel of the Kurd’s struggle against Turkey, THE KURDISH CONNECTION, is so relevant that it reads like today’s headline news.”

Despite a myriad of external tasks this week, I still managed to squeeze in more writing on Dangerous Alliance. The first draft of chapter eighteen is now complete and will be posted in the next couple of days so my reviewers can check it out.  All other works on other projects are on hold until I at least complete Dangerous Alliance‘s overall first draft.

Here’s another snippet for you:

Light filtered through narrow slats nailed across a window. Dust particles shimmered in the sun’s beams, creating a pattern in the air. A body slumped on the concrete floor stirred.

Ooh. Aah.

He pushed himself to a kneeling position. A whimper escaped from swollen lips. Eyes mere slits, black and blue streaks surrounded them. Dried blood crusted his upper lip. He collapsed again.

Soo struggled to his feet. He wrapped the blanket closer and glanced around the room. A closed gunmetal gray door was centered on the wall opposite the blocked window. Near the door, an armless chair, his clothes in a neat stack.

A door slammed. Footsteps. Voices, growing louder.

“What’s the meaning of this? Who are you? Why did you kidnap me?”

Four men, faces hidden behind latex party masks formed a semi-circle in front of him. One retrieved the chair, placing it under the light. “Sit.”

Perhaps more next week.

Books I’m Reading

I finished David L. Golemon’s The Mountain: An Event Group Thriller.  The tenth book in the series, for me this was one of his best. While very different from other books in the series, this one centered on a historical artifact, one of the first obtained by the Group. Set during the Civil War, President Lincoln sends a group of Yankees and Rebels on what might possibly be a total folly.

Experience the intense emotions of the Northerners and Southerners as they steam away from the fighting. Escaping from British and French warships, they eventually end up in the Black Sea. Their destination–Mount Ararat and the fabled Ark. A professor who has witnessed the Ark first hand is sent with the team (along with some foreign spies who infiltrated the professor’s team), which begins to experience untimely and inexplicable deaths, even before landing on the shores of Trabzon.

While a bit slow to start, the pace rapidly picks up and like David’s other books, I couldn’t put it down. This isn’t just a tale about Noah’s Ark but also about the beliefs and devastation the Civil War launched upon the country. A worthy read!

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.

ReadersAbode – Don’t forget to check this site out. Created by a group of writers spread across several continents, there’s sure to be something of interest. Thus far, the site contains short stories and poems written by its members, several blog posts and interviews with established authors. Or check it out on Twitter: @readersabode. The next bi-weekly posting will be out sometime today.

Once again, we’ve reached the end of another ramble.  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.

 

 

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Randall’s Ramblings, April 30, 2017

Randall Krzak

As April draws to a close, Mother Nature certainly pulled a fast one on me! This past Wednesday, the thermometer registered 75F/24C. What a great day to work outdoors! The next day was almost the same, so I managed to rake the beach, cut some grass, and clear a good portion of the bluff.

Imagine my surprise yesterday. I needed a coat and my wool hat to keep warm. I did tackle more outdoor work, but it was very windy with a high temperature of 46F/8C, but with the wind chill, it felt much colder.  So much for spring–being from Michigan I should know better!  Today, it’s already 46F/8C, but with wind-driven rain, dark clouds, and waves rolling across the water, I’m not going to attempt anything outside. Perhaps a good day to write!

My Work in Progress

In the May issue of The Lakeshore Guardian, page three included a review of The Kurdish Connection. The entire article will eventually be posted on my website later this week, either under testimonials or reviews, I haven’t decided yet.  Here’s a bit from the article: “A fast-paced Middle East tale filled with intriguing characters and a plot brimming with such vivid imagery the reader will become engrossed in an adventure on the other wide of the world. He takes his readers on a journey that will leave them wondering if this tale really did happen–or could something similar occur in today’s world?”

Needless, to say, I’m thrilled with the review!

Despite all of the extracurricular activities this week, I did manage to finally finish the initial draft of Dangerous Alliance, chapter seventeen. All being well, I’ll post it to the two subscription writing sites I use and find out what readers think. I’ll post another snippet from Dangerous Alliance soon.

Books I’m Reading

I’m almost finished with David L. Golemon’s The Mountain: An Event Group thriller. You’ll have to check out my comments next week.

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.

ReadersAbode – Don’t forget to check this site out. Created by a group of writers spread across several continents, there’s sure to be something of interest. Thus far, the site contains short stories and poems written by its members, several blog posts and interviews with established authors. Or check it out on Twitter: @readersabode.

I’m afraid that’s it for this time as we’ve reached the end of another ramble.  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.