An online promotional and news source for all Oklahoma writers, authors, artists, publishers, or creatives who work with Oklahoma related materials. We are especially supportive of independent authors and small presses.

Search This Blog

10/22/14

Michael Vance - The Thief of Two Worlds!

Anticipated release of science fiction novel for young readers becomes reality.
 
The wait is over as Author Michael Vance brings his latest Science Fiction novel, The Thief of Two Worlds, to a new generation of readers.
 
The Thief of Two Worlds introduces Caleb and Veyda McGreggor, a brother and sister who join their father and an alien from Alpha Centauri to capture an intergalactic, power mad thief. This unusual pairing of humans and aliens team up to time-jump into earth’s past to help track and capture the renegade who has stolen the greatest treasure of the planet Tugz, "The Egg"!
 
On their Angkor Wat adventure they cross paths with -- a rogue elephant, a ruthless "bird god", Kai the Tiger Killer, and...Albert Einstein!! They meet every obstacle with intelligence, faith, courage, and metallic crabs called Twydddle!
 
Educator Nancy Carlson writes: Vance has skillfully crafted a Christian Science Fiction tale. Young people will be captivated by this story that begins with an alien enlisting the help of scientist-inventor Jon McGreggor to travel to 12th century Cambodia. There's just one problem---his children are stowaways which adds an unexpected ingredient to the mission. I highly recommend this book which grapples with faith and fear along the way.
 
The Thief of Two Worlds! connects with readers in their everyday life as they discover new adventures. Twelve year old Caleb’s biggest challenge? Learning science cannot solve every problem. All the while, his ten year old Christian sister, Veyda, gains understanding in her quest.
 
Writer R.A. Jones calls The Thief of Two Worlds! “A thrill ride across space and time.”
 
“I’ve been looking for the right person to join us in bringing an exciting and entertaining new book to our audience,” says publisher, Derek Bullard. “We were especially looking for stories which parents can feel comfortable with their kids reading. Michael Vance delivers on multiple levels. Interesting characters, a timely plot which fans of today’s young science fiction stories will appreciate, and a whole lot of fun. And that spectacular cover by artist Terry Tidwell - Wow!”
 
Michael Vance has written for national and international magazines, and as a syndicated columnist and cartoonist in over 500 newspapers. His published novels include Forbidden Adventures, his Weird Horror Tales trilogy, a satiric novel titled Global Star, and the suspense-thriller The Equation. Vance also briefly ghosted an internationally syndicated comic strip and wrote his own strip and several comic books. He is listed in the Who's Who of American Comic Books and Comic Book Superstars.
 
This is the first middle grade, Christian novel to be released by James Kay Publishing and the book is available on their website or can be purchased through Amazon.com
The Thief of Two Worlds!
For more information cover art, cover art, or an interview with the author, please email Derek Bullard
book tour@jameskaypublishing.com

A Book Signing for Author Joe Harwell, Tulsa, 10/23

Author Joe Harwell, Tulsa announces a special event. "Thanks to the generous support of The Phoenix, located at 1302 E. 6th St. in Tulsa," he notes, "I have a meet and greet book signing there Thursday, Oct. 23rd from 6:30 to 9 PM."
 
If you can attend please do so and encourage others to be there. "As a true self-published writer, I need and appreciate the support of my work from friends."  He will have four of his novels on display at the event.
 
"My novels are set in Oklahoma and Arkansas. One is a futuristic thriller and the rest are historical fiction. So far I've written about Vampires, the media and coal mining. Coming soon will be more Vampires, serial killers, abuses in the health care system, erotica and whatever the voices in my head tell me to write."
 
Harwell has a soon to be released new novel, set in Tulsa,  Welcome to Utica, and it is a page turner with action and suspense to suit every taste.

Authors Book Signing in Ada

ADA LIBRARY HOSTS BOOK SIGNING FOR NEW ANTHOLOGY
 
ADA—Ada Public Library will host a book signing for the new anthology “Blackbirds First Flight” 4:30-6:30 p.m., Thursday, October 30. The anthology features stories from Ada author Stephen B. Bagley, Kent Bass, Wendy Blanton, Gail Henderson, Jean Schara, and Tamara Siler Jones.
Bagley, Blanton, Henderson, and Schara will sign copies of the book at the signing. The book will also be on sale at that time for the special price of $10.  

“‘Blackbirds First Flight’ is an anthology of stories and poetry with a dark, sensual twist,” said Pru Simmons, Many River Harbor associate editor. “The stories run the gambit from thrilling Gothic adventure to modern urban fantasy to fantastic encounters with the macabre. The poetry is uniformly excellent and tells dark stories of its own, many related to mythology.”

Simmons said the book might become an annual anthology. “We have had many inquiries about the book and its theme,” she said. “We definitely think there is an interest in dark, twisty fantasy that tells a satisfying story and follows traditional narrative arcs. We hope there will be another flight next year.”

“Gail (Henderson) and I are excited to actually meet some of the other authors,” Bagley said. “Wendy (Blanton) is flying in from Chicago, and Jean (Schara) is driving up from Texas. This is the first time we’ll all be in the same town.”

Stephen B. Bagley wrote “Tales from Bethlehem,” “Murder by Dewey Decimal,” “Murder by the Acre,” “Floozy & Other Stories,” and “EndlesS.” His works have appeared in “Creations 2014,” “Creations 2013,” “Creations 2012,” “ByLine Magazine,” “Free Star,” “Nautilus Magazine,” “OKMagazine,” and other publications. He graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. He is a member of Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. and Ada Writers.

Kent Bass enjoys writing Gothic action/adventure stories. He graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business and from the University of Oklahoma, with a Master of Science in Accountancy. He and his family live in Dallas, Texas, where he works for the nation’s leading tax software company. “Blackbirds First Flight” is his first publication.

Wendy Blanton published three fantasy novels, “The Dragon’s Lady,” “Rogue Pawn,” and “Sword and Scabbard” under the pen name Elizabeth Joy with co-author Scott Carman. She has a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management from the University of Mount Olive and served in active duty for the United States Air Force for eight years. She is an apprentice bard and tells Celtic folk tales at Scottish Highland Games and other venues.

Gail Henderson collaborated with noted Oklahoma photographer Michael Duncan to produce “Bare,” a book of poetry and photography. “Red Bird Woman,” a collection of her poetry, was published in 2013. Her work has appeared in “Creations 2014,” “Creations 2013,” “Creations 2012,” and “ByLine Magazine.” She holds a Masters of Education in English and Social Studies from East Central University. She is a member of Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. and Ada Writers.

Tamara Siler Jones is a wife, mom, writer, quilter, and cat-wrangler from rural Iowa. She has three novels in print/eBook (“Ghosts in the Snow,” winner of the Compton Crook Award for best first novel of the year in the Science Fiction/Fantasy/Horror genre; “Threads of Malice”; and “Valley of the Soul”; all published by Bantam Books), one book (“SPORE”) under contract with Samhain Publishing for release next summer; one book (“Morgan’s Run”) being marketed in New York, three novels in progress, and a screenplay in first draft.

Jean Schara retired from a 28-year career in the United States Air Force in 2008 and took up residence in Texas. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland University College with a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Writing and of the Troy State University with a Master of Science in Adult Education. She has had several book reviews published in the “Air Power Journal” and several articles published in “Vision: A Resource for Writers.”

“Blackbirds First Flight” is available from Amazon.com, Lulu.com, and other online retailers and in downtown Ada at Karen’s Art & Framing, Inc., 108 East Main.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT STEPHENBBAGLEY@GMAIL.COM
###


How We Sleep At Night by Sara Cunningham

A thoughtful and soul searching new work, How We Sleep at Night, is a "mother's memoir."  The author is Sara Cunningham. It is the true life story of how a Christian mother comes to terms with her son being gay through a personal journey that starts with the Church and ends at the Pride Parade.
 
It is filled with love, confusion, frustration, support and is an excellent and important work that should be read my many and discussed widely.  It offers a voice from an often silent corner of the larger social debate and provides much needed food for thought. Highly recommended.

I was supplied a prepublication copy of the text and found it a very moving read. 

"Sara Cunningham's How We Sleep At Night is an intimate, real, often emotionally raw, ultimately challenging, spiritual and emotional memoir of her personal journey regarding her son's homosexuality.  Her honest chronicle of the fears, frustrations, pains, and deep love of a church-going parent dealing with a confusing situation will resonant with so many people. Additionally, this work offers a much needed voice to the current dialogue of the larger society and especially the discussion of the topic in the church world.  The book will not be easy one for some to read but it should be widely experienced. It is crucial reading for achieving a healthy and positive understanding of the real people involved in the broad and so often abstract news headlines. They are sons and daughters, parents and children, friends and neighbors - in other words we are all family." - - Marilyn A. Hudson
 
Available as a Kindle format e-book from Amazon.com
 

10/21/14

Attention Authors and Publishers!

I have begun to be contacted by producers, researchers, interviewers and many others searching for particular authors. They would like to do interviews, include you in their productions, and they can't find you!  
 
Send me your current contact info, webpage address, etc. and I will add it to a page on this site.  Do not miss out on the potential promotional possibilities because no one can contact you! 

ELEPHANT HIPS ARE EXPENSIVE!

The 6th Annual Ruth Haddon Arts Festival will be held Nov. 1, 2 at Wesley UMC in Oklahoma City (NW 25 and Classen Blvd; west entrance).  Among the many fine arts and creative items there will be a special table to celebrate the re-issue of the popular children's book, Elephant Hips are Expensive! 

Appearing Saturday Nov. 1 from 10 - 3 will find author Marilyn A. Hudson and illustrator Molly Lemmons on hand to introduce their new book, ELEPHANT HIPS ARE EXPENSIVE. 
 
This children's book is based on true events of 1949 in Oklahoma when local children joined forces to raise money to bring a new elephant, Judy, to the local zoo.   Molly Lemmons was one of "Judy's Kids." Her whimsical drawings reflect the flavor of the times in delightful images.
 
Copies of the book are available in print and Kindle formats on Amazon.com or a limited number will be on hand for $10.00 at the event.  Order one online or drop by for the special book signing on Nov. 1
 
Molly Lemmons, Illus.
 
The author and illustrator are planning a special program to take to schools, libraries and other locations to share stories of the book, the times, and the creative experience.  Contact marilynahudson@yahoo.com or mollyloubelle@cox.net to schedule an appearance.

9/29/14

Limited Author Space at November Event

6th Annual Ruth Haddon Arts Festival @ Wesley UMC

 6th Annual Ruth Haddon Fine Arts Festival – Nov. 1 – 2, 2014

 

The Arts Festival Committee is accepting applications now from artists wishing to secure a display booth at the festival.  

Contact Gay Abarr at 405.229.6625; 405.745.7799 or Susan Howard at rshoward@aol.com  for information. To download an artist application follow link below.

Non-refundable $40/booth.

Application deadline is October 15.

Festival dates/times:

Sat. Nov. 1, 10:00 a.m. –  5:00 p.m.
Sun. Nov. 2, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

 Download a copy of the artist application on the websiteWesley_2014_Arts_Festival-4

 

9/26/14

BOOK WITH KIDS AND ELEPHANT A FUN READ

September 26, 2014
Press Release
Immediate Release


Norman, OK-- Whorl Books announces the release of a new edition of the children's book by Marilyn A. Hudson, Elephant Hips Are Expensive.  The book features the whimsical black and white drawings of Mustang resident and well-known storyteller and author, Molly Lemmons.  
 
In 1949, children across Oklahoma raced to see who could donate the most money to bring a new elephant to the Lincoln Park Zoo. In this fictional work nine-year-old David, seven-year-old sister Molly and their friends are determined to help make it happen despite a troublesome bully.  It includes bonus section with activities and coloring sheets.
 
This delightful fiction book will be of note to children as they explore what a group of children did in 1949 or for adults who fondly remember the "good old days".  Bullies, obstacles, teamwork and just plain hard work emphasize how these kids of "The Greatest Generation" faced problems to realize a dream.
 
Marilyn A. Hudson  has been a library professional in public, school, and academic libraries.   She started writing by authoring essays, articles, and editorials in a number of periodicals, serving as a contributing editor for two and as a newspaper stringer in Enid, Oklahoma.  Hudson is also author of The Bones of Summer, The Mound, When Death Rode the Rails, Madame Delaine, Noel Brooks, The Windows of Wesley, Stories Stage Center: A History of Storytelling in Oklahoma, and others.  She received a B.A. in History and an M.L.I.S. from the University of Oklahoma.

Her first introduction to the story of “Judy” was in taking her children to the zoo and then meeting people who had been part of the fundraising activities bringing the young elephant to Oklahoma in 1949.
 
Molly Lemmons, illustrator, is a storyteller, author, and artist, and has been listening to stories all of her life. She continues that family tradition by sharing stories and adding her own unique perspective with humor and heart.

Many of the stories she tells are taken from her book, Kind of Heart released in 2000. The book is filled with nostalgic tales about growing up during the 1940's and 1950's.  Her other published works include The Passing of Paradise, As Bright and as Pure as the Driven Snow, Seize the Flashbacks!, We are Invisible, and Hold my Hand, my Precious Child.

 Molly was herself one of those spunky Oklahoma children who were known as “Judy’s Kids.” Their drive, passion and vision leave an important legacy about what working together to achieve a common goal can mean.
 
"I remember sitting in the audience at the Municipal Auditorium (Aka Civic Center Music Hall) while at a school wide concert, and the emcee announcing: "Boys and Girls, you have bought an elephant for the Oklahoma City Zoo." The entire audience of elementary school children jumped to their feet and screamed and hollered to the top of their lungs. I was one of these children."
 
The book is available currently on Amazon in both print and Kindle formats.
 
The authors are planning to tour libraries and schools in the state in early 2015. 
 
 

9/18/14

Two-Time Pulitzer Nominated Oklahoma Poet Book Signings

 
Two-time Pulitzer nominated Oklahoma poet Ed Roberts will be visiting Yukon and Norman in October.
 
Oct. 11th  - Hastings Bookstore  1-3 PM /1105 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon, OK 73099
Oct.18th - Hastings Bookstore  1-3 PM / 2300 W Main St, Norman, OK 73069
 
 
Ed Roberts works include:
  • A Poet’s Last Stand
  • I’m Still Standing
  • And
  • Everything Must Have a Beginning, a Middle, and an End
  • Whispers, Tears, Prayers, and Hope
And his latest -
  • When Words Escape You, You Can Use Mine
(He has received a Pulitzer nomination for both of these)
 
For more information
Please visit
 

9/17/14

Oklahoma Writer Wins National Poetry Awards

George Rhoades of Duncan, Oklahoma, author of "Along the Chisholm Trail and Other Poems". has won several national poetry book awards, including the Will Rogers Medallion Award and the Benjamin Franklin Award.
 
He was presented the Franklin Award recently at a ceremony in new York City. The prize was given by the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) for the best book of poetry published by independent, university presses or self-published.
 
The Will Rogers Award, presented at an awards dinner July 28 in Fort Worth, Texas recognizes excellence in Western literature and media. The winning books were judged on literary quality and reflection of Western Americana, cowboy and ranch life.
 
"This was quite an honor and totally unexpected," Rhoades said.
 
Rhoades also won second place in the annual Reader Views Literary contest.  Reader Views is a national book reviewer company. In addition, his book was named a finalist in the National Indie Excellence Book Award, which recognizes books published by independent presses.
 
Also, the book was nominated for a CIPA Award present by the Colorado Independent Publishers Association.
 
One poem from the book, "Old Men at the Coffee Shop," received an honorable mention award in the 2013 Writers-Editors Network International Writing Competition.
 
The book contains poems about the Chisholm Trail, cowboys, tall tales, farm life, reflections and observations.  It was published by Outskirts Press.
Rhoades is a former journalist who worked for UPI and newspapers in Oklahoma.  He taught journalism for many years at the University of Texas at Arlington. After retirement, he moved to the Duncan area where he owned a hay farm.

8/30/14

"Just Sayin'" By Author Randell O. Drake

 
Just Sayin'   
Or as My Wife Says "He is Not a Man of Few Words"
by Randell O. Drake (Tate, 2014)
From nothing to something... you are possible....
 
A Season of the Unexpected...No Watches. Just Time...Coulda, Shoulda, Woulda...Out Loud? No Thanks...Blue Eyeshadow and Red Lipstick.
 
These chapters from the book Just Sayin' reflects a collection of ideas, autobiographical stories, thoughts, Biblical exposition, and a good many words from author Randell O. Drake.
 
Drake is a regular guy who is a minister of the Gospel and loves God, his family, his church, and the world around him. We all have our life anecdotes, our family yarns, and our career chronicles, and Drake's personal recollections will reveal to you how different and similar we all are.
296 pages - $21.99 (paperback) (Tate Publishing).
 
 "It has been a long time since I read a book that spoke so powerfully to the life and events of a minister. Bishop Randell O. Drake's Just Sayin' does that with wisdom, humor, practical insights and just the right touch on certain very serious topics. You will appreciate the honesty and transparency that comes through as Bishop Drake opens the windows of his life to all of us. This book is a must read for any Christian." Bishop Doug Beacham IPHC General Superintendent.
 
Catch him today at Hastings in Muskogee (8/30/2014).

Raising Awareness One Book At A Time

Walking down any street in any town or city, have you ever wondered what is going on behind the faces, beneath the dark shades and the hurried pace? Is there any pause to wonder if that exterior is the whole story? To wonder if there is more than meets the eye?  The answer is that often there is much more bubbling under the surface where hidden passions, needs, hurts and fears linger.  That is the terrain one author bravely sets out to explore and in the process bring new understanding. She seeks to raise awareness...one book at a time.
 
Author  RH (Rhonda) Ramsey, lived in Oklahoma City/Edmond, Oklahoma until  she was eighteen-years-old.  Currently stationed at McConnell AFB in Kansas,  she is a military spouse, mother, and author with a small independent publisher. Her work is now beginning to take off and just recently, she has been interviewed on a local television show in the Wichita area, "The Brett and Sierra show." "My books have been accepted in The Blue Dragon Bookstore, as well as Bookaholics. My debut novel, Just Beneath the Surface, is also in the Derby, Kansas Public Library." She shared and added that last May, the Derby Informer also interviewed about the passion and focus that drives her writing, namely "Awareness." 

Ramsey describes herself as "very passionate about and dedicated to awareness -- giving a voice to the silenced, silencing those who judge with no intent to understand."  Her efforts are beginning to be noticed.
 
The need to make people aware of the complexities of a subject as old as time but ever reshaped by modern stresses, gives her writing a reality and passion.  "In my novel, Just Beneath the Surface: Landon's Story, readers learn the pathology of the abuser."
 
"Readers see that domestic violence does not always mean physical scars. It is also vital to me that those who are hurt do not fall into any particular category of race, personality, or social class. Many say what they would do if they were abused (mentally or physically) yet many do not understand that abusers are just as manipulative and ingenious as they are tyrannical; they chip away at their victim until he/she does not know who or where they are. It breaks my heart that people are critical and judgmental."
 
Her goal in this creative endeavor is clear and one needed in an increasingly complex and stressful society.  "My mission is to break apart stereotypes and try my hardest to shed light on what really happens behind closed doors, beneath the surface."
 
Her novels, Just Beneath the Surface I , Just Beneath the Surface 2: Landon's Story. The first novel is about physical violence, while the follow-up, which is not a continuation and has new characters/stories, is about mental abuse.  Released August 2014  her latest work is called, Like Shards of Glass. This is a novel about the aftermath of PTSD. 
 
For a review of Like Shards of Glass, go here.

8/26/14

Local Authors Book Fair to Feature Over 40 Authors


Kudos to the Tulsa area for supporting local libraries and local authors!  Kudos too to the local authors and talent donating their time to this worthy cause.
 
 Karen Marie Graham, Claremore, shares, "I've organized a fundraiser benefiting the Tulsa City County Library's Downtown Renovation." The desire is to spread the news among students, faculty, and writing library supporters.  The event involves Jim Stovall and 40 local authors from all over Green Country (NE Oklahoma).
 
The fundraiser is scheduled for September 13. 
From 1:30-2 p.m.  The local musical talent of Sean Al-Jibouri of Tulsa Jazz will be entertaining our guests as they arrive!

Author, motivational speaker, and movie producer, Jim Stovall, will be speaking at Hardesty Regional Library on "Turning Ideas into Books, Speeches, Columns, and Movies," from 2-3 in Conner's Cove, then from 3-4:45 forty local Oklahoma authors, including Jim, will be selling and signing their books in Frossard Auditorium. These authors are generously donating 25% of their sales to the Tulsa City-County Library downtown renovation project.

There will be giveaways, too.  For each book purchased, the customer will be entered to win one of 4 $100 gift cards, book baskets, and more!

For more information go to:  https://www.facebook.com/events/840963465914689//  

6/29/14

Hal McBride Announces New Title

Gatewood: Tales from the life and time of Lieutenant Charles B. Gatewood and available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Ibooks.


SUMMARY: It is a historical novel that traces Charles Gatewood and his Coyotero Apache scouts through the late stages of the Apaches Wars.  It includes pursuits of well-known Apache warriors such as Nana and Victorio.  It concludes after his excursion which secured the surrender of Geronimo deep in the Mexican wilderness.  The cognitive dissonance of his evolution from soldier into an advocate for Apache rights is intriguing.


The story of the grand romance between Charles and Georgia Gatewood is tightly woven through out the entire story.  The insight into the life of life of Cavalry wives on the military outposts of the Arizona and New Mexico Territories of the 1880's is mesmerizing.

Available o Amazon at this link.

6/19/14

Rural Oklahoma Museum of Poetry: One Woman's Unique Vision




She is an author, a teacher, a poet, a visionary. Shaun Perkins is the guiding force behind the most unusual and interesting museum in northeastern Oklahoma, and perhaps, the country.  ROMP! is the Rural Oklahoma Museum of Poetry residing in a bright red barn in Locust Grove, Oklahoma.  Increasing numbers of school groups, tourists and locals are discovering this unique experience mixing literature, creativity, workshops, and life in a place dedicated to the "poetry of the people."   The museum is a member of the Oklahoma Museums Association.  Add it to your lit of day trip options this summer. 

Check out the website

Shaun is the author of several books, and one of her poetry books is Aware of Birds Missing. Shaun Perkins is a diversely gifted individuals: she is a storyteller, poet, teacher, and workshop facilitator.  She often conducts workshops and presentations at the regional and national levels with such organizations as the National Storytelling Network, National Association for Poetry Therapy, National Council for Teachers of English, and many more. She has taught creative writing classes for high schools and colleges, in addition to online and with various writing communities. 

Contact Info:

rompoetry@gmail.com

Rural Oklahoma Museum of Poetry

6619 S. 4382 Rd.

Locust Grove OK 74352

6/18/14

Author Marilyn A. Hudson Interviewed by Red Dirt Report

A history of storytelling in modern Oklahoma is the topic of an article in the Red Dirt Report.  Author Marilyn A. Hudson is interviewed and explains her motivation for writing the book.

Norman based author, Marilyn A. Hudson, crafts a basic introduction looking at the art of oral storytelling as seen in many community groups, explores the theory of storytelling, and presents a directory of some of the pioneer and recent state story artisans.

Hudson is author of Tales of Hell's Half Acre, When Death Rode the Rails, Madame Delaine, The Bones of Summer, Noel Brooks, Those Pesky Verses of Paul, In Her Own Words, The Mound, Murderous Marriages, and Off the Page!   She is currently at work completing a suspense novel due out in the fall.

Stories Center Stage is available in print and Kindle versions on Amazon.com.   The author is available for interviews and some book signings, readings, and talks. 

See the article here.

6/10/14

Brian Young: The Sullen Queen (The Island of the Mighty) (Volume 1)


Enid based author, game designer, and scholar, Brian Young announces the release of an exciting new series, The Sullen Queen (2014).

Young Prince Rhun ap Maelgwn was restless and packed up his gear and left his home for adventure. What he sought was a faraway land in distress burdened by an ever-growing enchanted forest and its rumored shining queen from the Otherworld. What he got was quickly over his head in trouble and danger having no experience in either adventure, sword-play, or acting the hero. Now he must decide the fate of many kingdoms, people and somehow win the heart of one of the two princesses along the way while managing to survive in this 6th century tale set in a mythical yet slightly historical Celtic Britain. Strange enchantments, faery-folk, high action and adventure and memorable characters set the stage in this first of many tales in the Island of the Mighty Saga.

Brian Young's 'The Sullen Queen' is an enjoyable tale rich with mythic forms, setting and action.  The main character, young Prince Rhun ap Maelgwn, is well developed and suited to the role of the hero setting out on the journey that will test him to the core.  The pace is active and the plot often surprising making sure the reader is entertained and engaged.  At times, the writing takes on an almost epic and lyrical cadence.  As the last line is read and this volume concludes, there is a strong sense that one has returned from sitting at the feet of an ancient storyteller who shared some long forgotten saga.  Lovers of fantasy, of action, and all Celtophiles will enjoy this work and eagerly look forward to the next installment.  

Brian Young is an award winning (2013 Diehard GameFAN) game designer for Troll Lord Games, Secretary for the Celtic League, Educator (14 years), and an author with Damnation Books/Eternal Press with over half a dozen titles published already and more on the way. 

He was a local Horror Host on both TV and radio and creator and founder for a traditional Halloween event 'Scare on the Square' with a Bachelors in History from NWOSU (2002), and a Masters in Arthurian Studies from the University of Wales Lampeter (2007) , he is now beginning his PhD in Celtic Studies from Y Drindod Dewi Sant.

A sure to please addition to fantasy collections and for those who love an action packed and mythic rich story line.  Readers familiar with his unique tale of vampiric horror in early day Oklahoma, De Civitate Sanguino, and his other titles, will delight in this new work.

Availible on Amazon here.

6/4/14

Hell With Lid Blown Off: New Work by Oklahoma Native Donis Casey

Scottsdale, AZ – Poisoned Pen Press announces the release of Hell with the Lid Blown Off by Donis Casey. Hell with the Lid Blown Off will be available wherever fine books are sold in June.  It has been "hailed" in a Starred Publishers Weekly review and is available June 2014.

The latest mystery by award-winning novelist Donis Casey, Hell with the Lid Blown Off has generated high advance praise, including a Starred Publishers Weekly review which calls the novel “excellent” and adds “as the action builds to a surprising denouement, Casey provides an engaging portrait of the close-knit society that was commonly found in the rural Midwest at the time. Alafair Tucker, her large family, and their friends are a pleasure to spend time with.” 

About Hell with the Lid Blown Off:   In the summer of 1916, a big twister brings destruction to the land around Boynton, Oklahoma.  Alafair Tucker’s family and neighbors are not spared the ruin and grief spread by the storm.  But no one is going to mourn for Jubal Beldon, who made it his business to know the ugly secrets of everyone in town. It doesn’t matter if Jubal’s insinuations are true or not: in a small town like Boynton, rumor is as damaging as fact. But as Mr. Lee the undertaker does his grim duty for the storm victims, he discovers that even in death Jubal isn’t going to leave his neighbors in peace.  He was already dead when the tornado carried his body to the middle of a fallow field. Had he died in an accident or had he been murdered by someone whose secret he had threatened to expose? There are dozens of people who would have been happy to do the deed, including members of Jubal’s own family. As Sheriff Scott Tucker and his deputy Trenton Calder look into the circumstances surrounding Jubal’s demise, it begins to look like the prime suspect may be someone very dear to the widow Beckie MacKenzie, the beloved music teacher and mentor of Alafair’s daughter Ruth.  Ruth fears that the secrets exposed by the investigation are going to cause more damage to her friend’s life than the tornado. Alafair has her own suspicions about how Jubal Beldon came to die, and the reason may hit very close to home.

Donis Casey is the author of the Alafair Tucker Mysteries, including The Old Buzzard Had It Coming, Hornswoggled, The Drop Edge of Yonder, The Sky Took Him, Crying Blood, and The Wrong Hill to Die On.  Donis has twice won the Arizona Book Award and has been a finalist for the Willa Award and the Oklahoma Book Award. Her first novel, The Old Buzzard Had It Coming, was named an Oklahoma Centennial Book. She lives in Tempe, Arizona.

Founded in 1997, Poisoned Pen Press is an independent publisher specializing in the highest quality mystery books. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Poisoned Pen Press is one of the largest publishers of hardcover mysteries in the world. Titles from Poisoned Pen Press are distributed by Ingram Publisher Services, and are available through wholesalers such as Ingram, Baker & Taylor, and Brodart, and directly from the publisher. Visit the new Poisoned Pen Press author blog and Discover Mystery™ at: www.poisonedpenpress.com

Hell with the Lid Blown Off will be published in hardcover (ISBN: 978-1-4642-0298-8, $24.95) trade paper (ISBN:  978-1-4642-0300-8, $14.95) large print trade paper (ISBN: 978-1-4642-0299-5, $22.95) and eBook editions.

Members of the news media wishing to request additional information about author Donis Casey an advance review copy of Hell with the Lid Blown Off are kindly asked to contact Maryglenn McCombs by phone – (615) 297-9875, or by email – maryglenn@maryglenn.com
###

5/13/14

Author Charley Jordan

Moonshiner's Son: Becomes Multi-Millionaire is a true rags to riches story. It is a memoir about how a poor country boy captured the American dream. 

"I was born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma and grew up very poor in the hills north of town and my dad was a moonshiner. When I was 15 years old I started hanging chickens in a poultry processing plant for $1.18 per hour during the summer months. My teachers and class mates made fun of me for working in a chicken plant because it was an undesirable place to work. After graduating from high school, I went back to hanging chickens. At age 32 I had absolutely nothing, not even any clothes. At age 52 I retired as a president of a major poultry company in Siloam Springs, Arkansas (the same company I started hanging chickens for) and was a multimillionaire. Some stories are funny and some are sad. Moonshiner's Son inspires people to never give up on their dreams."

This book is for young adults and adults.

It is available in paperback and ebook on line through Amazon, Barnes and Noble and elsewhere. Ingram is a wholesale distributor also. Moonshiner's Son has 24 reviews on Amazon with a 5 star rating.

5/8/14

Has She Got A Story To Tell: Modern Storytelling in Oklahoma Surveyed in New Book

Norman based author, Marilyn A. Hudson, announces the publication of STORIES CENTER STAGE! Storytelling in Modern Oklahoma.  This work looks at the art of oral storytelling as seen in many community groups, explores the theory of storytelling, and presents a directory of some of the pioneer and recent state story artisans.

Hudson is author of Tales of Hell's Half Acre, When Death Rode the Rails, Madame Delaine, The Bones of Summer, Noel Brooks, Those Pesky Verses of Paul, In Her Own Words, The Mound, Murderous Marriages, and Off the Page!   She is currently at work completing a suspense novel due out in the fall.

Book and Kindle formats available at this link.  Bookstores and libraries can contact the author about multiple copy orders at this email.   The author is available for interviews and, in the Oklahoma City area, book talks.

The author and a limited number of books will be on hand for the Friday evening events of the Spirit of Oklahoma Storytelling Festival.  The author will be sharing a tale during a free ghost tales concert , "Ghosts in the Pavilion" at 9:15 .m.

5/6/14

University of Oklahoma Student Releases Science Fiction Novel


NORMAN, Okla. – Mustang High School graduate Laura Wilcox released her first novel, Renegade, for Kindle and Nook on April 1, 2014. This young adult science fiction eBook offers readers a reinvented glimpse of history, radically shaped by a dying race of time travelers.

In this imaginative retelling of American history, time travelers live by three rules. Avoid all interactions, always travel alone and never, under any circumstance, lose your talisman. When 22-year-old time traveler Andrew Simmons loses his talisman in pre-revolutionary Boston, he must race against the clock to retrieve his only way home.

 Everything is on the line – family, love, freedom, honor and even the future. But time reveals a long line of dark secrets that threaten the traveler way of life, and Andrew realizes he must fight to save more than just his life. He must fight to save his kind.When time traveler Andrew Simmons loses his talisman in pre-revolutionary Boston, he must race against the clock to retrieve his only way home. Everything is on the line – family, love, freedom, honor, and quite possibly the future. But as time reveals a long line of dark secrets, Andrew realizes he must save more than just his skin. He must also save his kind.When time traveler Andrew Simmons loses his talisman in pre-revolutionary Boston, he must race against the clock to retrieve his only way home. Everything is on the line – family, love, freedom, honor, and quite possibly the future. But as time reveals a long line of dark secrets, Andrew realizes he must save more than just his skin. He must also save his kind.

“Laura Wilcox’s new time travel series hits the ground running, brimming with action, conspiracies and danger,” said Mel Odom, acclaimed author of over 140 novels.

Renegade is available on Kindle for $3.99 and can be purchased online at Amazon.  The novel will also be available for purchase on Nook soon. Paperback copies are available upon request. For more information, visit www.Facebook.com/LostTalisman.

Wilcox currently lives in Norman, Okla., where she works as a staff writer at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. In May, she will graduate from OU with a B.A. in Public Relations and minors in English Writing and International Studies.  In her spare time, she loves blogging, knitting and obsessing over 90s boy bands.

To inquire about interviews and book signings, please contact the author at lawilcoxbooks@gmail.com.

4/9/14

NORTHWEST HOUSTON RWA ANNOUNCES ANNUAL LONE STAR WRITING COMPETITION

**Forwarding Permitted and Encouraged**

Northwest Houston RWA© is proud to Announce
the 22nd Annual Lone Star Writing Competition 2014

NEW for 2014 is the Romance Novella category which includes all sub-genres of romance, including erotic romance.

The Lone Star Writing Competition is one of the few contests where each first round entry is judged by two published authors plus one unpublished author.  Finalists’ entries will be judged by three industry professionals. (agents/editors/Epublishers)

Entry fee: $25.

Deadline is at midnight CDT on June 8th.

Finalists will be announced August 18th.

Winners will be announced at the LONE STAR CONFERENCE, October 4, 2014 in Houston, TX.

Contest Details can be found at: http://nwhrwa.com/writers-events/lonestar-contest/

4/7/14

"Off the Page!" Basics to a Story Time

Off the Page!: A Basic Guide to A Story Time.
Marilyn A. Hudson, MLIS
 
List Price: $11.00
6" x 9" (15.24 x 22.86 cm)
92 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1497544154 (CreateSpace-Assigned)
ISBN-10: 1497544157
BISAC: Education / General
Perfect resources for child care providers, community event planners, parents, home schools, volunteers, teachers and public libraries planning to add story times to their programs.

This work is suitable for early childhood and pre-school programs and workers. it includes easy ways to inserting authentic learning into sharing of picture books with children or groups and in making storytime the most anticipated of events.

Author Marilyn A. Hudson has been a children's librarian in both elementary school and public libraries. In addition, she has been a college level library administrator and teacher...
 

4/4/14

AUTHOR BOOK SIGNING

Author Mariana Llanos announces: " I'll be signing my new book A Planet for Tristan Wolf Saturday April 12th 11-12.30 pm at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW XPWY). You are welcome to stop by and  invite your friends.:

4/3/14

MEET AUTHOR TONY A SMITH

Tony Smith was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma and grew up in the Oklahoma City area. Tony worked for AAA in Michigan for twenty two years and eventually decided to get back to his roots to be closer to family in Oklahoma. He currently makes his home in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma with his wife Denise and daughter Valerie. "Oklahoma Ride" represents the first in a series of books. I hope you enjoy the "Ride". 
 
"OKLAHOMA RIDE: Guideposts For Life"  was published in February of this year. The ISBN # is 978-1-62660-066-9. The work was edited by Denise Smith.
 
Image of Tony SmithAbout the book: "Don't we all wish we had a road map to keep us on the right track in life? We need certain cornerstones or guideposts in life to guide and direct us along our journey. In this book you will find those guideposts as described by a native Oklahoman, Tony Smith, who has been through his share of storms as well as blue skies. The stories are joyful, tearful, humorous, and thought provoking. Along the way you will also pick up some practical tips and tricks for improving your life to keep you going in the right direction."

In an interview with Oklahoma Writers, when asked what sparked his interest in writing this book, the author replied.  " I had thought a long while about writing a book like "Oklahoma Ride" and finally I decided to put pen to paper after my family and I made the decision to leave   Michigan after many years to return to Oklahoma. I started reflecting on many
of the life lessons I learned growing up in Oklahoma and along the way back   to what I consider my true home. I wanted to impart to others what took me   many hard life lessons to learn and offer a bit of encouragement and   sound advice along the road of life."

Readers always like to know where an authors influences come from. So we asked, "Is there an author that inspired you in what you are doing?"   "Stephen King probably inspired me the most after reading his own book "On Writing A Memoir Of The Craft" which was in part an autobiography. " Tony stated.  "He stated in his book to keep practicing your writing and to keep reading as much as you can to get better at what you do. Many of his books are  based in part upon things that happened to him along the way when he was younger."

 
The link to the ebook can be found at http://www.amazon.com/OKLAHOMA-RIDE-GUIDEPOSTS-FOR-LIFE-ebook/DP/B00IJOASBA/     He is part of the Goodreads author program and readers may visit his Amazon author page at https://amazon.com/author/tonysmith.