Showing posts with label Halloween. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Halloween. Show all posts
Monday, October 30, 2023
Sunday, October 23, 2022
Poet LindaAnn LoSchiavo: The Importance of Writing the Historical Witch Poem
The Importance of Writing the Historical Witch Poem
So-called “witches” fared even worse since their lives were extinguished by others due to Britain’s Witchcraft Acts or the 1692 persecutions in Salem, Massachusetts when at least 200 men and women were on trial for practicing “the devil’s magic.” Twenty were executed.
What saved Tituba’s life was her willingness to “confess,” giving testimony about “a coven” in Salem. Eventually set free and sold again, Tituba’s story ended. “She disappeared from the historical record from that point on,” according to historian Veta Smith Tucker.
Reclaiming the life history of long-ago witches is never an easy matter for researchers. Nevertheless, this has merit for its own sake and might even counterbalance the injustice. Poets, writers, musicians, and historical societies can make a difference.
Fortunately, others share my viewpoint about the need for legacy management.
Poetic lyrics of “Sarah Good” by the South Carolina metal band "Buried Voices" commemorate the 39-year-old woman who died in her prison cell instead of “confessing.”
Fortunately, even modern storytellers refused to let Hulda’s deeds go unnoticed. Her reputation grew with the popularity of current books such as Jonathan Kruk’s “Legends and Lore of Sleepy Hollow and the Hudson Valley” (published in 2011), which devoted a chapter to the “witch of Sleepy Hollow.” Tourists would congregate at Old Dutch Church, puzzled that Hulda had no memorial there, irate that no sign was posted near her former cabin by Spook Rock.
Finally, the historical society made amends. According to The Times-Union newspaper: In 2019, a headstone, crafted in the style of an 18th-century monument with a winged soul soaring above her name, was erected at the Old Dutch Church burial ground, remembering “Hulda of Bohemia” who “died c. 1777. Herbalist, Healer, Patriot. Felled by British while protecting the Militia. Buried here in gratitude for her sacrifice.”
Take a moment to appreciate the irony herein.
Fictional witches come in many forms—good and bad, Witches of the East and Witches of the West, Baba Yaga, Sabrina, etc. — and yet all are appreciated because of supernatural abilities invested in them by wordsmiths. When a poem or story includes a witch, power is the key factor that sets the character apart. In contrast, society did Hulda and others wrong because they had no power.
In her article for Tor, Sarah Gailey expanded upon this concept: “When we write witches, we are writing about our expectations of women, and what we hope—and fear—they would do if they had access to power. Fictional witches act as ciphers that help us understand something that seems at once mysterious and brilliant and sinister: a woman’s ultimate, unlimited potential… realized.”
Bewitchment is also on the mind of Fire Lyte, a Simon and Schuster author who has interviewed self-identified witches as well as fairy experts, paranormal investigators, etc. on his podcast “Inciting A Riot.” In an article for Writer’s Digest, Fire Lyte explained: “The witch is typically portrayed as having eschewed societal norms and found power elsewhere that allows them to right wrongs and reach an equity they’ve previously been denied.”
Several poems on historical witches are in my manuscript, “Always Haunted.” The pen is mightier than life stories crumbled into anonymous dust. The act of writing resuscitates a historical witch. I encourage readers to dig into the archives, find your witches, and let them breathe, dance, and charm on the page.
LindaAnn LoSchiavo, and David Davies
18th October 2022
Genre: Poetry
Publisher: Nat 1 Publishing LLC
ASIN: B0B3NK7QG6
Number of pages: 49
Word Count: 6,400 approx.
Cover Artist: Benyamin Agum
Your portal to the dark side
All Hallows’ Eve, Samhain, Day of the Dead… during this interval, the barriers between the two realms are thinnest. Normal turns paranormal; what's natural becomes the supernatural. That's when the messengers of the macabre are in their rightful element.
Step inside this collaborative chapbook and embrace a haunted harvest of verses embracing bewitchment, boneyards, and all things that go... BOO!
LinkTr.ee
Native New Yorker LindaAnn LoSchiavo, a Pushcart Prize, Rhysling Award, Best of the Net, and Dwarf Stars nominee, is a member of SFPA, The British Fantasy Society, and The Dramatists Guild.
Elgin Award winner “A Route Obscure and Lonely,” “Concupiscent Consumption,” “Women Who Were Warned,” and “Messengers of the Macabre” by Audience Askew [October 2022] are her latest poetry titles.
Up next: a tombstone-heavy collection in hardcover by Beacon Books.
She has been leading a poetry critique group for two years.
Her Texas Guinan film won “Best Feature Documentary” at N.Y. Women’s Film Fest (Dec. 2021).
Thursday, October 20, 2022
Dainty Damsels: Halloween Collection 2022 (Dainty Damsels Coloring Books Book Twelve) by J.N. Sheats + giveaway
(Dainty Damsels Coloring Books Book Twelve)
by J.N. Sheats
09/04/2022
Genre: Fantasy Coloring Books
ISBN: 979-8849735702
ASIN: B0BD2RR74J
Number of pages: 72
Cover Artist: J.N. Sheats
Spooky season is here and so are the Dainty Damsels with a new 30 page collection of illustrations by J.N. Sheats.
Grab your pens, pencils, and markers and get to coloring!
A creative mind trapped in a world of reality Jackie Sheats expresses herself in anyway that she can. From illustrating and writing to dancing like a mental patient while preparing dinner. Living in Maryland with her logic driven husband, their six cats, the dog, and a tank full of fish, Jackie spends her free time doing the backlog of housework. A movie junkie, video game addict, and lover of romance novels, she lives life under the idea that "if you don't know how to do something, go learn it!"
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Big eye cute girls ready for Halloween.
Dainty Damsels: Halloween Collection 2022 Coloring Book
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BD2RR74J
#ColoringBook #DaintyDamsels #halloween #witches #mummies #vampires #magic #spirits
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$25 Amazon Gift Card
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Sunday, October 16, 2022
Messengers of the Macabre: Halloween Poems LindaAnn LoSchiavo, and David Davies + giveaway
LindaAnn LoSchiavo, and David Davies
18th October 2022
Genre: Poetry
Publisher: Nat 1 Publishing LLC
ASIN: B0B3NK7QG6
Number of pages: 49
Word Count: 6,400 approx.
Cover Artist: Benyamin Agum
Your portal to the dark side
All Hallows’ Eve, Samhain, Day of the Dead… during this interval, the barriers between the two realms are thinnest. Normal turns paranormal; what's natural becomes the supernatural. That's when the messengers of the macabre are in their rightful element.
Step inside this collaborative chapbook and embrace a haunted harvest of verses embracing bewitchment, boneyards, and all things that go... BOO!
These men got what they deserved.
She looks down at the fresh grave,
breathing the sour odors of wet earth
and the recent sweat of the diggers.
Dressed in mourners' black, naturally.
Far from the smoky lanterns of the street,
the meat roasting on the stoves,
and the violence and money
men waste on brief entertainment.
She’s the youngest; her sisters and
mother always know where she is.
In front of her, three short steps beyond
the dark soil, is the wooden cross
with the neatly carved name.
The carpenter here does fine work.
She rubs a swollen lip. It will heal
and fade like the others, and this one
will not leave a scar. They all,
mother and sisters, bear record
on their skin from men like this one.
These men deserved what they got.
You’re the one that makes it right,
her sisters tell her. You were born knowing
where to cut, they admire. Our angel
sent to protect us. Small and quick,
shadow-to-shadow, under dim windows,
too clever to be seen, the deed done
swiftly by a small hand and a sharp
thin blade where no one looks.
And when suspicion arises?
“She’s the baby, we don’t let her out.”
“We always know where she is.”
What more can women do
but protect each other?
Knife in hand now, she steps forward.
The turned earth gives a little
under her boots. One hand on top
of the cross, she hacks at the letters.
They splinter and crack, until
there is bare wood cleaved and cut
where a name once stood.
These men deserve what they get.
She’s the baby, her mother and sisters
always know where she is.
Then she’s gone in her black dress
before any—alive or dead—can notice her,
this cemetery ritual complete.
Website
New York City necromancer LindaAnn LoSchiavo, a wily clairvoyant, honed her psychic abilities during childhood and has the power to haunt any benighted soul who disparages this chapbook.
Some of her Elgin Award-winning poems have been seen here: Bewildering Stories, Blood ‘n Bourbon, Mermaids Monthly, South Broadway Ghost Society, Star*Line.
Formidable dragon slayer David Davies left Wales under baleful circumstances for The Lone Star State. “Have sonnets, will travel,” announces his business card.
His Pushcart- and Bram Stoker-nominated poems and stories have been known to appear in: Granfalloon, Green Lantern Press, MacroMicroCosm, Moon Shadow Sanctuary, Ripples in Space.
Spooktacular Giveaway
1 ebook copy of Messengers of the Macabre: Halloween Poems by LindaAnn LoSchiavo and David Davies and some of digital artwork
Friday, September 30, 2022
Movie Review: Hocus Pocus 2
September 30, 2022
Directed By: Anne Fletcher
Screenplay: Jen D’Angelo
Based on characters created by David Kirschner and Mick Garris.
Stars: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy
Music by: John Debney
Disney+
Three young women accidentally bring back the Sanderson Sisters to modern day Salem and must figure out how to stop the child-hungry witches from wreaking havoc on the world.
Two teenage girls light a candle given to one of them by Gilbert, owner of a shop of magic, for her 16th birthday. Thinking of using it to bring their other friend back to them, instead, it lights a black flame and brings back the Sanderson sisters. This time the three witches are out to destroy Salem, but most of all, the mayor as he is a direct descendent of the Reverend Traske, who banished them from Salem in the 1600s. This includes Becca’s and Izzy’s friend, Cassie, who happens to be the mayor’s daughter, also a direct descendent.
At first, it started off a tiny bit bland to me, but once the three sisters are revived from death, the movie hits on overdrive. We even get to see Billy Butcherson once again.
Stay after the end of the credits—there is an extra scene that might be a teaser maybe for another movie.
Saturday, October 30, 2021
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
Halloween Spooktacular: The Wantland Files Book One by Lara Bernhardt + giveaway
2-liter bottle of 7-Up, Sprite, or Ginger Ale
Optional: one can of pineapple juice + ¼ cup lime juice
Mix together the lime sherbet and soda of your choice just before serving. Watch the brew froth and foam! You can add juice to your liking and even add some dry ice chips if you really want to set a creepy mood.
Halloween Jell-O Cake Recipe
1 white cake mix
1 cup boiling water1 pkg Jell-O gelatin (orange, grape, or both)
½ cup cold water
1 tub Cool Whip
Food coloring and sprinkles if desired
—Bake the cake as directed on the box. Cool for at least 15 minutes. Use a large fork to poke holes throughout the cooled cake.
—Add the boiling water to the gelatin. (My mom used both orange and grape to marble the colors but you can opt for only orange or whatever you prefer.) Stir until dissolved. Add the cold water and pour over the cake. Refrigerate for 3 hours.
—Use food coloring to tint Cool Whip if desired and then spread over cake. Refrigerate another hour and decorate with sprinkles as desired just before serving.
by Lara Bernhardt
December 16, 2016
Genre: supernatural suspense
ISBN: 978-0998426105
ASIN: B081RFTMR5
Number of pages: 286
Word Count: 73,470
Cover Artist: BEAUTeBOOK
She sees dead people. He doesn’t believe in ghosts.
The X-Files meets Ghost Hunters when psychic Kimberly Wantland is forced to collaborate with skeptic Sterling Wakefield as she investigates a ghost terrorizing a young family in the season finale of her hit television series The Wantland Files.
The frigid blast hit her, not a tidal wave crashing over her, but an iceberg, solid and powerful. And furious.
The icy shock took her breath away. She gasped.
The entity dropped from above and sailed past, blowing her hair behind her.
Strong, warm hands grasped her arms, intent on steadying her. She shook free as Drew screamed.
“I told you to stay with the boy!” She crossed the room in three steps and knelt beside the toddler bed.
Drew no longer sat in the corner.
“Kimmy? What’s happening?” Michael called from the door.
“Just keep recording! She’s here. She’s powerful. Keep the cameras rolling.”
Danielle’s voice joined the fray. “What’s wrong? Drew! What’s happening?”
“Stay in your room,” she commanded as forcefully as she could with lungs chilled by the dark entity. “Stay with your baby!”
Her fingers trembled as she searched the bed. Every square inch of the miniature thing. Her chilled hands were not so numb that they would miss a toddler’s body. Where was he?
Frantic and scared, she lost control of her extrasensory perceptions. She stopped running her hands over the bed and held still. Clutching her crystal, she breathed deeply. Where was the entity? Where was the boy?
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Bookbub-Goodreads
Lara Bernhardt is a Pushcart-nominated writer, editor, and audiobook narrator. She is Editor-in-Chief of Balkan Press and also publishes a literary magazine, Conclave. Twice a finalist for the Oklahoma Book Award for Best Fiction, she writes supernatural suspense and women’s fiction.
You can follow her on all the socials @larawells1 on Twitter and @larabern10 on Facebook, BookBub, and Instagram.
Spooktacular Giveaway
Prize featuring $10 Amazon gift card and an audiobook code
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thursday, October 14, 2021
Halloween Spooktacular: Hidden Gypsy Magic by Tena Stetler + giveaway
by Tena Stetler
September 28, 2020
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Mystery
ISBN: 978-1-5092-3256-7
ASIN: B08FXBNLW5
Number of pages: 330
Word Count: 85,144
Cover Artist: Kristian Norris
The consequences of awakening hidden gypsy magic could forever alter life as they know it!
The Salem Wildlife Sanctuary is Gwen Taylor's life work. Her Irish Gypsy heritage provides a hidden talent she uses to help the creatures under her care. But even her magical skills can't help new rescues in dire need of veterinary care.
The opportunity of signing on as the vet for Gwen's sanctuary dropped into Brock Scutter's lap after he expanded his practice to include wildlife. The personal attraction he and Gwen experience is undeniable the more their professional and personal lives collide.
Touring the only "non-haunted" house in Salem they both feel a spark of magic. A trip to his family's cabin uncovers a heritage he didn't know existed. If they want a future together, it means facing the consequences of awakening hidden Gypsy magic and a race against the clock to correct past wrongs.
"This house may not have a history of magic, but I'd bet it's magical. You're going to put an offer in. Right?"
"As I said before, it may be completely out of my price range."
"I have a feeling the house has been waiting for you." Gwen flung her hand to her mouth, her face flushed, and her gaze swiveled to him. "I don't know what made me say that."
Looking thoughtful, he grinned. "Since the day I stumbled upon Pepper's secret — then discovered that you and I share the gift or curse of gypsy blood, things have been different—" Pausing, he shoved his hand in his jean's pocket and jingled the change in his pocket. "I've been different. It's as if knowing magic exists awakened something in me."
"Join the club. Years ago my best friend Pepper made a believer out of me. In fact, there were times I wished—never mind. Whether it was my outlook or as you said magic awakened. But to be fair, I've always had what I called a sixth sense with animals, attuned to their feelings, almost their thoughts, fears, that kind of thing. Pepper called it my talent. But as we became close, I noticed other abilities… you'll think I'm crazy."
"Try me." He moved closer to her and the front door banged open. Quickly he rushed to the top of the stairs.
Since I'm a big animal person, I’ve compiled a few tips on Keeping your Pets Safe on Halloween.
It's almost time for another spooktacular sequel in the annual Halloween tradition. A holiday beloved in countries around the world, appealing to people looking for fun and thrills-- But for their pets...not so much! Halloween festivities can be stressful, to say the least, and downright hazardous at times. A few tips to keep everyone safe and enjoying the holiday!
1. Treats - Chocolate is poisonous to cats, dogs, and parrots. The darker it is the more toxic it is. One ounce of dark chocolate can poison a 50-pound dog. Keep these treats out of your pets' reach. Make sure everyone in your household understands, especially children, how crucial it is that no human treats are given to pets.
2. Alarming sounds and sights - The constant doorbell, ringing, unfamiliar guest and little monsters running around is a recipe for disaster for your pets. They could try to escape or display unexpected aggression. Keep your pet sequestered in a section of the home where they can avoid this anxiety-causing activities. Provide food, favorite toys and check on them often.
3. Don't leave pets outside! Pets have been known to be abused or killed on Halloween night by cruel people. I owned a black cat for twenty-two years, he was the best cat ever. But we made sure to keep him inside several days before Halloween and several days after. Yep he was no pleased!
4. Never take your dog trick or treating for all of the above reasons. Dogs can easily be spooked by all the Halloween hubbub. If they run away or bite someone it will end your evening of fun.
5. Dangerous Decorations - Electrical cords and batteries used to operate the exciting Halloween decorations can be hazardous to your pets. Chewing on cords can cause electrocution, chewing on batteries can cause chemical burns, if swallowed can cause intestinal blockage. Artificial cobwebs look cool as heck, but they can also present a choking or entanglement hazard to curious pets. Nightmarish Pet Costumes - Most pets are happiest in the skin they were born in. LOL Yet pet owners will dress their fur, scaled, or feathered babies up for Halloween. Don't put your pet in a costume unless they are completely comfortable with it. I admit I dress up my dog and parrot for Halloween. I choose costumes they're comfortable in, do not hinder movement, sight, hearing or ability to breathe, bark, scream, or meow.
6. Eerie Glow Items - Glow necklaces and Glow sticks can help keep people safe on Halloween, but pets not so much. They can cause gastrointestinal distress and chewed fragments can pose a choking hazard.
7. One last thought - Opening the door repeatedly for trick-or-treaters creates the possibility of pets slipping outside. Collars and tags work if someone locates and collects your wayward pet. Make sure the information on the tags is up-to-date. Microchips offer permanent identification. Just make sure your information is correct with the company who supports your pet microchips.
September 28, 2020
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Mystery
ISBN: 978-1-5092-3256-7
ASIN: B08FXBNLW5
Number of pages: 330
Word Count: 85,144
Cover Artist: Kristian Norris
The consequences of awakening hidden gypsy magic could forever alter life as they know it!
The Salem Wildlife Sanctuary is Gwen Taylor's life work. Her Irish Gypsy heritage provides a hidden talent she uses to help the creatures under her care. But even her magical skills can't help new rescues in dire need of veterinary care.
The opportunity of signing on as the vet for Gwen's sanctuary dropped into Brock Scutter's lap after he expanded his practice to include wildlife. The personal attraction he and Gwen experience is undeniable the more their professional and personal lives collide.
Touring the only "non-haunted" house in Salem they both feel a spark of magic. A trip to his family's cabin uncovers a heritage he didn't know existed. If they want a future together, it means facing the consequences of awakening hidden Gypsy magic and a race against the clock to correct past wrongs.
"As I said before, it may be completely out of my price range."
"I have a feeling the house has been waiting for you." Gwen flung her hand to her mouth, her face flushed, and her gaze swiveled to him. "I don't know what made me say that."
Looking thoughtful, he grinned. "Since the day I stumbled upon Pepper's secret — then discovered that you and I share the gift or curse of gypsy blood, things have been different—" Pausing, he shoved his hand in his jean's pocket and jingled the change in his pocket. "I've been different. It's as if knowing magic exists awakened something in me."
"Join the club. Years ago my best friend Pepper made a believer out of me. In fact, there were times I wished—never mind. Whether it was my outlook or as you said magic awakened. But to be fair, I've always had what I called a sixth sense with animals, attuned to their feelings, almost their thoughts, fears, that kind of thing. Pepper called it my talent. But as we became close, I noticed other abilities… you'll think I'm crazy."
"Try me." He moved closer to her and the front door banged open. Quickly he rushed to the top of the stairs.
It's almost time for another spooktacular sequel in the annual Halloween tradition. A holiday beloved in countries around the world, appealing to people looking for fun and thrills-- But for their pets...not so much! Halloween festivities can be stressful, to say the least, and downright hazardous at times. A few tips to keep everyone safe and enjoying the holiday!
1. Treats - Chocolate is poisonous to cats, dogs, and parrots. The darker it is the more toxic it is. One ounce of dark chocolate can poison a 50-pound dog. Keep these treats out of your pets' reach. Make sure everyone in your household understands, especially children, how crucial it is that no human treats are given to pets.
2. Alarming sounds and sights - The constant doorbell, ringing, unfamiliar guest and little monsters running around is a recipe for disaster for your pets. They could try to escape or display unexpected aggression. Keep your pet sequestered in a section of the home where they can avoid this anxiety-causing activities. Provide food, favorite toys and check on them often.
3. Don't leave pets outside! Pets have been known to be abused or killed on Halloween night by cruel people. I owned a black cat for twenty-two years, he was the best cat ever. But we made sure to keep him inside several days before Halloween and several days after. Yep he was no pleased!
4. Never take your dog trick or treating for all of the above reasons. Dogs can easily be spooked by all the Halloween hubbub. If they run away or bite someone it will end your evening of fun.
5. Dangerous Decorations - Electrical cords and batteries used to operate the exciting Halloween decorations can be hazardous to your pets. Chewing on cords can cause electrocution, chewing on batteries can cause chemical burns, if swallowed can cause intestinal blockage. Artificial cobwebs look cool as heck, but they can also present a choking or entanglement hazard to curious pets. Nightmarish Pet Costumes - Most pets are happiest in the skin they were born in. LOL Yet pet owners will dress their fur, scaled, or feathered babies up for Halloween. Don't put your pet in a costume unless they are completely comfortable with it. I admit I dress up my dog and parrot for Halloween. I choose costumes they're comfortable in, do not hinder movement, sight, hearing or ability to breathe, bark, scream, or meow.
6. Eerie Glow Items - Glow necklaces and Glow sticks can help keep people safe on Halloween, but pets not so much. They can cause gastrointestinal distress and chewed fragments can pose a choking hazard.
7. One last thought - Opening the door repeatedly for trick-or-treaters creates the possibility of pets slipping outside. Collars and tags work if someone locates and collects your wayward pet. Make sure the information on the tags is up-to-date. Microchips offer permanent identification. Just make sure your information is correct with the company who supports your pet microchips.
Website-FB-Twitter
Authors’ Secret’s
My Say What Blog
Goodreads-Amazon-NewsletterTena Stetler is a best-selling author of award-winning paranormal romance with an over-active imagination. She wrote her first vampire romance as a tween, to the chagrin of her mother and the delight of her friends. Colorado is home; shared with her husband, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot and a forty-five-year-old box turtle. When she’s not writing, her time is spent kayaking, camping, hiking, biking or just relaxing in the great Colorado outdoors.
Her books tell tales of magical kick-ass women and mystical alpha males that dare to love them. Travel, adventure and a bit of mystery flourish in her books along with a few companion animals to round out the tales
Spooktacular Giveaway
$10 Amazon Gift Card
Friday, August 20, 2021
Horror Author Martha Wickham: 10 surprising facts readers don't know about me + giveaway
10 surprising facts readers don't know about me.
2. My cat's name is Buzzy. He is black with green eyes and has food allergies. As long as he eats good food he looks pretty, especially now.
3. My book The Mystery Of Frankenstein's Bride is a series. I am just thinking about book 3. It's going to have the bride and her psychic Rose. I will have to research psychic work. Being at the beginning there are so many things I could write about.
4. I was born in Springfield, Missouri but grew up in Santa Cruz County California where I went to high school. My best friend and I had a lot of fun going to the beach, riding horses, and spending the night in her parents' RV.
5. I am of English, German, and Scottish descent.
6. Put off horror writing for 10-15 years because I didn't like the idea of scaring people, but now I have a horror series. I still don't like scaring people, but horror is so mysterious and unrealistic. I do like writing it sometimes though starting out it was hard writing about things I was scared about. The research is tough also sometimes.
7. I've had bad dreams while writing horror.
8. My mother Doris was an unknown artist. When I was five she painted Disney characters on my bedroom wall. I remember Cinderella and Alice In Wonderland. I wanted her to be my illustrator, but she only ended up drawing a picture for my bookmarks.
9. I wanted to be a writer when I was a child. It was definitely one of the things I wanted to do when I grew up. I was a creative child and took creative writing in high school.
10. Took arts like theater, piano, and ballet in college. My major was in social services, but the funner electives were there.
by Martha Wickham
August 18, 2021
Horror, ghost story, Halloween
Horror, ghost story, Halloween
25 pages
Love bites Terra this Halloween night. On All Hallows Eve Terra meets Bobby. He pretends to be a monster while dating her. When she finds out they break up and he and his friend fear her and they kidnap her.
Bobby becomes another Frankenstein so she sees a psychic when she is haunted by him. It is the source of all her troubles. Can she let go of what brought her to life? In the mean time Rose is there to help.
Love bites Terra this Halloween night. On All Hallows Eve Terra meets Bobby. He pretends to be a monster while dating her. When she finds out they break up and he and his friend fear her and they kidnap her.
Bobby becomes another Frankenstein so she sees a psychic when she is haunted by him. It is the source of all her troubles. Can she let go of what brought her to life? In the mean time Rose is there to help.
EXCERPT
The cold fall air blew over Terra's face and through her long, curly, black hair. It was the night before Halloween and Terra's mind drifted away. She was on one of her late night strolls through the local graveyard. Sitting on a grassy mound she watched the blood moon turn slightly red. This part of Chicago was peaceful and restful. No city to disturb anyone.
Fall leaves blew and circled her a few times then left. Her black lips glistened as she smiled at the night. The reddish moon interested her and she wanted to know more. Why was Samhain so interesting? She didn't know anything about it, but wanted to. She would start by studying the moon.
The night was spent reading a book about it and the fall solstice. It was 1979 and little did she know Halloween had approached at midnight. Heading back home she began to feel alone. Going out at night made her feel lonely. Bride did not know anyone. Her new name was Johnston, but she was not married to that new monster she made long before he was destroyed for being evil. She reflected on her living time with him sometimes. She wanted to meet people. As the sun gave a hint of sunlight it was time to sleep at home and she wondered if Frankenstein would ever come back to claim her?
Probably not.
On Halloween night Terra sat quietly in her room. Creepy cackling and bubbling could be heard, then footsteps. She went outside and saw nothing. The full moon lit the area well. Curiously she headed to the graveyard and sat on a large tombstone. Crickets chirped and fireflies flew, but that was all. It was time to go past the graveyard. Walking near a road she heard voices. Two young men were chatting and a little drunk because they were coming from a Halloween costume party. One was dressed as a vampire with teeth, dark slick hair, pale skin, and a dark cape. The other, his close friend, was Frankenstein. They looked very good. Tall and dark.
Bride approached them.
“It's back that way,” Frankenstein said pointing in the direction of the party.
“I don't need that info from you any more,” Terra said to what she thought was her ex. She walked over to the vampire and put her arm through his. “What part of this country are you from?”
“South of Chicago,” the vampire replied.
“I'm Terra. I'm the bride of Frankenstein, or was. Care to get a drink?” she asked the vampire.
“Why not.” The phony vampire's teeth sparkled. He winked at Frankenstein. “I'm Dracula,” he said to her with a Transylvania accent. He looked so handsome in the dark. Terra didn't look so bad herself.
“I'll see ya later,” Dracula said to Frankenstein. They were off to have a romantic drink.
After the drink it was time to say goodnight. “Can we do it again some time?” she asked.
“Yes,” the vampire said. “I'll come by and get you this Friday evening. We'll have a candle lit dinner at my house.”
“That sounds lovely! Alright.”
He began walking her home. “Don't hate my friend Frankenstein. He can be nice.”
“I know. I was engaged to him once. Didn't know him well. You I'd like to get to know.”
“I will see you then.” He kissed her on the cheek and left her sight.
“I'm going to go out with this girl again. I like her, but I drank too much last time,” Dracula said to Frankenstein with a stomach ache.
“Just don't let her find out your not a vampire. Why does she believe we are monsters?”
“I don't know. Good costumes,” he said shrugging.
“Watch her. I think she's weird.”
“Pretty, but weird. She won't find out. I'll only come out at night,” the vampire swore. “How is it you're not hung over?”
“I hold my liquor,” the green one answered and they both laughed.
“I need to prepare for our Friday dinner. Do you know where I can get a hearse and a coffin? And I want to shop at one of those Halloween stores. They are probably having clearance sales now.”
“I know a company. I'll ask if we can borrow or rent,” Frankenstein said hatefully. “How long can this go on for?”
“I don't know. When it gets tired I'll wait until she loves me and cares for me too much to get mad.
Then I'll tell her.”
Fall leaves blew and circled her a few times then left. Her black lips glistened as she smiled at the night. The reddish moon interested her and she wanted to know more. Why was Samhain so interesting? She didn't know anything about it, but wanted to. She would start by studying the moon.
The night was spent reading a book about it and the fall solstice. It was 1979 and little did she know Halloween had approached at midnight. Heading back home she began to feel alone. Going out at night made her feel lonely. Bride did not know anyone. Her new name was Johnston, but she was not married to that new monster she made long before he was destroyed for being evil. She reflected on her living time with him sometimes. She wanted to meet people. As the sun gave a hint of sunlight it was time to sleep at home and she wondered if Frankenstein would ever come back to claim her?
Probably not.
On Halloween night Terra sat quietly in her room. Creepy cackling and bubbling could be heard, then footsteps. She went outside and saw nothing. The full moon lit the area well. Curiously she headed to the graveyard and sat on a large tombstone. Crickets chirped and fireflies flew, but that was all. It was time to go past the graveyard. Walking near a road she heard voices. Two young men were chatting and a little drunk because they were coming from a Halloween costume party. One was dressed as a vampire with teeth, dark slick hair, pale skin, and a dark cape. The other, his close friend, was Frankenstein. They looked very good. Tall and dark.
Bride approached them.
“It's back that way,” Frankenstein said pointing in the direction of the party.
“I don't need that info from you any more,” Terra said to what she thought was her ex. She walked over to the vampire and put her arm through his. “What part of this country are you from?”
“South of Chicago,” the vampire replied.
“I'm Terra. I'm the bride of Frankenstein, or was. Care to get a drink?” she asked the vampire.
“Why not.” The phony vampire's teeth sparkled. He winked at Frankenstein. “I'm Dracula,” he said to her with a Transylvania accent. He looked so handsome in the dark. Terra didn't look so bad herself.
“I'll see ya later,” Dracula said to Frankenstein. They were off to have a romantic drink.
After the drink it was time to say goodnight. “Can we do it again some time?” she asked.
“Yes,” the vampire said. “I'll come by and get you this Friday evening. We'll have a candle lit dinner at my house.”
“That sounds lovely! Alright.”
He began walking her home. “Don't hate my friend Frankenstein. He can be nice.”
“I know. I was engaged to him once. Didn't know him well. You I'd like to get to know.”
“I will see you then.” He kissed her on the cheek and left her sight.
“I'm going to go out with this girl again. I like her, but I drank too much last time,” Dracula said to Frankenstein with a stomach ache.
“Just don't let her find out your not a vampire. Why does she believe we are monsters?”
“I don't know. Good costumes,” he said shrugging.
“Watch her. I think she's weird.”
“Pretty, but weird. She won't find out. I'll only come out at night,” the vampire swore. “How is it you're not hung over?”
“I hold my liquor,” the green one answered and they both laughed.
“I need to prepare for our Friday dinner. Do you know where I can get a hearse and a coffin? And I want to shop at one of those Halloween stores. They are probably having clearance sales now.”
“I know a company. I'll ask if we can borrow or rent,” Frankenstein said hatefully. “How long can this go on for?”
“I don't know. When it gets tired I'll wait until she loves me and cares for me too much to get mad.
Then I'll tell her.”
Goodreads-Smashwords
Martha has studied writing with Writer's Digest and has an associate's degree in Social Services. She has also written poems and songs and even studied screen writing and horror. She still writes and likes getting writing prompts. Her favorite author is VC Andrews. If you purchase and read Martha's books a review would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Monday, November 9, 2020
Candy Review: Popcorn Flavored M&M's
I love chocolate-coated popcorn so M&M's limited Halloween special popcorn-flavored M&M's caught my attention.
I probably had my expectations set a little too high and ended up being disappointed. When you open the pack you are hit with a popcorn smell! But that's all the popcorn flavor is...a popcorn smell on the outside of the M&M's. After eating a few you no longer smelled/tasted the popcorn.
Add onto that the way they look! I assume they wanted them to look like popcorn but it was not very appetizing. They look bumpy and dirty.
Inside is a crispy center with very little chocolate around it.
Anyone else try them? Or have you found a different flavor you like? I was too impressed with the brownie M&M's either.
3 "meh" Sheep
SharonS
Wednesday, October 21, 2020
The official Halloween candy power rankings
Here are the top 10 ranked candies. You can find 11-31 in the L.A. Times along with a nifty graphic.
by Lucas Kwan Peterson
-Food Columnist
Los Angeles Times
1. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
2. Kit Kat
4. Twix
5. Starbursts and Hi-Chew
6. M&M’s
7. Whoppers
8. Snickers
9. Tootsie Pops
10. Skittles
For 11-31 check out the post:
So, what is your favorite and least favorite?!
My picks (Sharon)
Monday, August 3, 2020
Book Review: Pumpkins and Party Themes: 50 DIY Designs to Bring Your Halloween Extravaganza to Life by Roxanne Rhoads + giveaway
by Roxanne Rhoads
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Skyhorse
August 11, 2020
ISBN-10: 1510751165
ISBN-13: 978-1510751163
Bring your Halloween party theme to life with these quick tips and tricks!
Pumpkins and Party Themes features ten unique party themes with five do-it-yourself pumpkin designs for each theme. The pumpkin projects have a variety of decorating ideas that include carving, painting, and mixed media craftiness and easy-to-follow steps on each creation. Author Roxanne Rhoads also includes quick ideas on how to bring the theme to life through décor, costumes, and activities. These fun party themes range from gothic elegance to Edgar Allan Poe, under the sea, let's get literary, and more!
With beautiful full-color images to illustrate the tools needed, steps to follow, and final products, this book makes for the perfect gift for Halloween enthusiasts and party hosts alike!
I consider myself a Halloween fanatic. I love Halloween anything and everything to do with Halloween.
I enjoyed this book I think it offers so many ideas for somebody who is trying to figure out how to do a DIY Halloween party with some step by step guides to help. Gives you several Ideas on themed party ideas to decorate for, even game ideas for each theme with costumes down to the simple invitations ideas. Everything you need to know with DIY directions on how do some of the Decor yourself. I think it’s a great idea for someone that doesn’t know how to go about doing crafty things and always wanted to try themself it’s all right here done for you. Some ideas on where to get some of the supplies best ideas for individual projects depending on what you’re going to use them for and includes some stencils for the pumpkins all in one book.
Also enjoyed the story on The Legend Of Jack-O’-Lantern. “It’s dark how will I find my way. Jack asked while munching on a turnip. The devil threw him a glowing coal which Jack placed in the turnip he had been eating. He became Jack of the Lantern, Doomed to wander the earth alone for eternity.”
I would definitely recommend this book for someone who was thinking about doing a Halloween party and didn’t know where to get started easy fun and breaks it all down for you I think you’ll really enjoy yourself.
5 sheep
SusieR
Roxanne Rhoads is an author, book publicist, mixed media crafter, and lover of all things spooky.
Her books include the Amazon Bestseller Haunted Flint and Pumpkins and Party Themes : 50 DIY Designs to Bring Your Halloween Extravaganza to Life.
She is the owner of Bewitching Book Tours, a virtual book tour and social media marketing company. She operates a Halloween blog- A Bewitching Guide to Halloween and sells handcrafted jewelry, art, and home decor through her Etsy store- The Bewitching Cauldron.
When not reading or writing, Roxanne loves to craft, plan Halloween adventures, and search for unique vintage finds.
Amazon Author Page
A Bewitching Guide to Halloween
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Author Website
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Tour Giveaway
1 signed copy of
Pumpkins and Party Themes
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