Author Donalisa Helsley announces her latest book, The Worry Glasses: Overcoming Anxiety. Do you find yourself worrying about almost everything? Do your worries seem extra large? MJ knows the feeling. She's a big worry wart. Visit with MJ as she learns how to take off her "Worry Glasses" and take control of her anxiety.
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10/10/12
Seasonal Fun Celebrates Oklahoma Halloweens

Whorl Books announces a fun title, Halloween: Oklahoma Tricks and Treats, 1900-1989 by Marilyn A. Hudson. The short monograph examines how the holiday was celebrated during different decades, the major influences and themes emerging to shape the holiday. A high interest, low level read perfect for older children and younger teens or anyone wishing to learn about October in Oklahoma.
Debut Author Carrie Crain Inks Deal With Two Crain Publishing
(OKLAHOMA)
– October 9, 2012. Debut author and former Hollywood actress Carrie Crain has
signed a deal for The Adventures of Austin Girl and
the Legend of Diablo
children’s book series to be published this fall by Two Crain Teen an imprint
of Two Crain Publishing, LLC. The book is about Austin Girl, a dispirited
teenager, who discovers a magic Samurai sword, leading her on a journey to
Planet Disco to save her kidnapped Grandpa from the nefarious Diablo, and
return to Earth before she becomes a permanent guest.
The Adventures of
Austin Girl and the Legend of Diablo
is a quirky fantasy that takes the reader on a fast-paced journey.
“I
originally wrote this story as a screenplay while I studied creative writing in
fiction and screenwriting at UCLA extension,” says Crain.
Carrie Crain received her bachelor of arts
in Sociology from the University of Oklahoma and studied screenwriting and
creative writing in fiction at UCLA. She has freelanced for Austin Monthly
Magazine and was a contributing writer for the Crazytownblog. She lives in
Oklahoma with her husband and three dogs. For speaking engagements or book
inquiries, please e-mail her publisher at twocrainpublishing@gmail.com. She is a housewife and writer who is challenged by bipolar
disorder and anticipatory stress. Crain’s next book of humorous essays, Sould:
Memoir of Bipolar, will be published in
2013. The memoir is about a middle-aged housewife’s adventures with bipolar as
she struggles to write the next “great American novel.”
Two Crain Publishing, LLC. is a small indie press
focused on showcasing new and upcoming authors whose writing voice and
storytelling sets them apart. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer,
Carrie Crain, and President, G. Crain, is an indie adult and children’s trade
book publisher. Two Crain Teen is an imprint of Two Crain Publishing, LLC and
is dedicated to unique novels and novellas in the children’s and YA genres.
This imprint is home to debut author Carrie Crain. For more information about
Two Crain Publishing, visit our website at http://www.twocrainpublishing.com
and the author’s website at http://www.carriecrain.com.
Contact:
THE CONSEQUENCES OF PRESERVING OUTLAWS IN ARSENIC
The
Consequences of Preserving Outlaws in Arsenic-- SC Maxfield
Johnny Redfeather, 15, doesn’t know where home is. Raised in the circus
all he holds dear is a box of faded clippings left to him by his late father.
They’re all about Bill McCready. Will this mysterious outlaw be Johnny’s link
to his roots?
Becky Redfeather is weathered, worn but
unbowed. She manages the farm her father left her but nurses a heartbreak that
time hasn’t mended. When Johnny arrives at her farm, the doors to the past and
future are blown wide open. Together they set out to find Bill McCready’s
corpse, but as usual the outlaw comes tied up with a whole heap of trouble.
Sweeping from the dying days of the Old
West to the changing world of the 1960s, SC Maxfield mines rich seams of
adventure, romance, hope and redemption, plunging her characters into hair
raising escapades through the backwoods and byways of America, culminating in
an explosive finale back in the heartland where it all began.
"'The Consequences
of Preserving Outlaws in Arsenic’ elegantly manages to combine elements of
magic realism, thriller and comedy in a wonderful on ‘On the Road’ western tale
of family reunion” -- LEFTLION
10/4/12
Ada Author Martha E. Rhynes
ADA -- Many Rivers Harbor announces the publication of "Secret of the Pack Rat's Nest," a novel for teens written by Ada resident Martha E. Rhynes.
The book tells the story of Colby Elliot, who discovers a secret on the grounds of a spooky estate guarded by a fierce black dog. Will his discovery be the answer to his family’s problems, or will it result in deception and violence that could ruin his life? His father is gravely ill, and his mother is burdened with worry and debt. He has to quit the football team, his girl loves someone else, and he is in trouble at school. He thinks things can’t get worse, but they do. Will Colby allow his sense of right and wrong to guide him when he is tempted to choose a dangerous solution to his problems?
The author explains why teenage Colby is the main character of her story. “Before my retirement, I taught junior high and high school English,” Rhynes said. “Girls in my classes preferred romance, but they also liked mysteries and adventure stories. However, boys said they hated to read, so I was always looking for good action stories with young male protagonists. The boys’ attitudes toward writing essays, poetry, and short stories was on a par with cleaning out the septic tank; so I assigned writing prompts over topics I’d heard them discuss when they thought I wasn’t listening. ‘Secret of the Pack Rat’s Nest’ has young male characters (good guys and bad guys), football, fishing and camp outs, romance, and illegal drugs and violence.”
Rhynes began her writing career by researching the lives of American authors and writing biographies and analyses of their work for inclusion in literary encyclopedias. Her book-length biographies include “I, Too, Sing America: The Story of Langston Hughes”; “Gwendolyn Brooks: Poet from Chicago”; “Ralph Ellison: Author of Invisible Man”; “Jack London: Writer of Adventure”; and “Ray Bradbury: A Teller of Tales.” Her works of fiction include numerous short stories and two other novels: “The War Bride,” and “Man on First.” Other publications include the Ada Writers anthology “Creations 2012.” Rhynes is the mother of six adult children and many grandchildren. Her family operates a cattle ranch in Oklahoma.
For more information or to purchase the novel, visit Rhynes’s website at MarthaERhynes.blogspot.com. The book is now available at Karen’s Art & Framing, LLC., 108 East Main, Ada, and online at Amazon.com.
Many Rivers Harbors, a micropublishing company based in Oklahoma, helps authors publish and promote their books. For more information, visit its website at ManyRiversHarbor.blogspot.com.
9/29/12
Need a Caterer for a Book or Other Event?
One of the challenges in planning events can be simply finding caterers and someplace to hold the activity. Next time check out the small to mid size venue associated with Catering Creations in Norman, Oklahoma (3750 W. Main, 3-C ; 405-364-1400).
Note: Networking is the key. Do you know of a vendor or venue other authors might be interested in knowing about for book launches, book signings, and celebrations? Send it to marilynahudson@yahoo.com
Labels:
book launches,
Caterers,
celebrations,
special events,
Venues
9/10/12
HAL MCBRIDE
M.A. (University of Tulsa). His professional life focuses on being a School Psychologist (Cascia Preparatory School , Tulsa , Oklahoma) and he has a private practice limited to child custody issues. All of which says he has the professional skill and experience to add unique depth and perspective to his written works.

Contact him at :
Hal Shearon McBride, Jr.
918-743-1993
9/7/12
Karen Marie Graham: The Promises You Keep
The Promises You Keep, introduces an exciting new fiction voice to the Oklahoma landscape. The work was published May 30, 2012. Graham is a resident of Claremore.
Abandoned, alone, and running from her past, language arts teacher Sydney
Mackenzie has found a place of solitude as she tries to find healing in
forgetting. She is abruptly forced to turn and face her painful past, however,
when Emily enrolls in her class and turns her peaceful world upside down. Can
Sydney find a way to trust herself, and trust others again, before it's too late
to save her student from a similar fate? Find out, in The Promises You Keep.
Abandoned, alone, and running from her past, language arts teacher Sydney
Mackenzie has found a place of solitude as she tries to find healing in
forgetting. She is abruptly forced to turn and face her painful past, however,
when Emily enrolls in her class and turns her peaceful world upside down. Can
Sydney find a way to trust herself, and trust others again, before it's too late
to save her student from a similar fate? Find out, in The Promises You Keep.
When not writing she leads a whirlwind life filled with husband, children, education classes, photography and listening to her favorite music.
It's currently for sale on Amazon (eBook) and CreateSpace (Paperback):
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0087SCBQI
https://www.createspace.com/3897489
She can be followed via website, facebook page, and twitter accounts:
www.books-a-daisy.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Books-A-Daisy-LLC/132176866906370?ref=hl
@booksadaisy
@karenmarieg1
It's currently for sale on Amazon (eBook) and CreateSpace (Paperback):
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0087SCBQI
https://www.createspace.com/3897489
She can be followed via website, facebook page, and twitter accounts:
www.books-a-daisy.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Books-A-Daisy-LLC/132176866906370?ref=hl
@booksadaisy
@karenmarieg1
9/4/12
Brenda Napier Launches Positive Children's Book
Watering God's Garden by Tulsan Brenda
Napier, author and illustrator. Launched July 2012 this is a delightful book with a positive message children will love.
In this remarkable children's story you will become familiar with a little girl named Rebekah, who enjoys making the best of her yard. Rebekah cherishes her yard. You will see how she creates all the beauty within. She’s kind, loving and considerate to all of God’s creatures who also enjoy her special place. She show’s creativity, hard work and relaxation. She loves her special gardens just as much as God loves his.
Available on Amazon.
The author has several other books lined up for future publication covering a variety of subjects familiar to childhood.
Labels:
children's literature,
gardens,
Religious fiction
8/21/12
8/7/12
LOCAL AUTHOR APPEARANCE ON TELEVISION
Local author Rachel Hunter, Oklahoma City was on TV for an interview with Oklahoma Live! regarding her various publications - including her fantasy novel, Empyreal Fate. "I thought I would share the feature with you..." The link can be found here:
http://www.ksbitv.com/oklahoma-live/lyns-commentary/Author-Rachel-Hunter-165193966.html
http://www.ksbitv.com/oklahoma-live/lyns-commentary/Author-Rachel-Hunter-165193966.html
7/16/12
SNU LIBRARY HOSTS BOOK SIGNING
Southern Nazarene University’s R.T. Williams Library , Bethany, Oklahoma, invites you to attend the Book Signing Party for -
An Oklahoma Diary
ByJeanne Prince
On Saturday, July 21, 2012
2-4 p.m.
Labels:
author book events,
Bethany (OK),
Book signings,
Jeanne Prince,
SNU
7/9/12
Lauren Zuniga
Indie author Lauren Zuniga has published The Smell of Good Mud. This is her second book of poetry.
She has a loyal fan base as well. "She served as the OU Activist in Residence as a writer and activist for women's rights," advocated one such fan. "She is an Oklahoma native, and her dedication to bettering our state through writing is unparalleled. One of her poems, "To the Oklahoma Lawmakers," was featured recently on Moveon.org and has received over 100,000 views on YouTube." The publisher is WriteBloody Publishing of Long Beach, California specializing in giving an audience to alternate voices and independent titles and authors.
Labels:
activists,
alternative publishing,
Indie authors,
poets
7/6/12
Add Some Chills to August
The 2012 paranormal conference, "Ghostlahoma", will be August 18, 2012 in Enid, Oklahoma. Various speakers will be on hand - including authors Troy Taylor, Tonya Hacker,Teri White, and Tammy Wilson - as well as other authors specializing in the paranormal, history, horror, etc. Tickets will be $25 and vendor booths are $50 (which includes 1 pass).
Labels:
authors,
conferences,
Enid (OK),
paranormal,
Tammy Wilson,
Terri White,
Tonya Hacker,
Troy Taylor
BESTSELLING AUTHOR SPEAKS AT BENEFIT FOR OSU LIBARIES
James Patterson Headlines Fundraiser
Bestselling author speaks at benefit for OSU Libraries
(July 6, 2012 Stillwater, Okla.) –James Patterson, author of more than 60 bestselling titles, is the keynote speaker for the 2012 H. Louise & H.E. “Ed” Cobb Speaker Series on September 14.
Patterson is best-known for his thriller series such as Alex Cross and the Women’s Murder Club, however his works also include a number of award-winning children’s books. A prolific writer, Patterson has six hardbacks slated for upcoming release.
“The Friends of the OSU Library have hosted an amazing slate of authors for this series. This year we wanted someone who not only had an impressive body of work, but who would also deliver the brilliant keynote our guests have come to expect,” said Sheila Johnson, dean of libraries.
The September 14 Cobb Speaker Series will include a welcome reception and dinner. After dinner, Patterson will speak and take questions from the audience. A signing reception will follow, and selections of Patterson’s work will be available for purchase.
Seating is limited, and reservations must be made by August 29. Individual tickets are $100, and half the cost is a tax-deductible gift to the Friends of the OSU Library. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
Oklahoma State University is a modern land-grant system of interdisciplinary programs that prepares students for success. OSU is America’s Brightest Orange. Through leadership and service, OSU is preparing students for a bright future and building a brighter world for all. As Oklahoma’s only university with a statewide presence, OSU improves the lives of people in Oklahoma, the nation and the world through integrated, high-quality teaching, research and outreach. OSU has more than 36,000 students across its five-campus system and more than 24,000 on its combined Stillwater and Tulsa campuses, with students from all 50 states and around 120 nations. Established in 1890, OSU has graduated more than 245,000 students to serve Oklahoma, the nation and the world.
Labels:
James Patterson,
library fundraisers,
Oklahoma,
OSU
6/18/12
Book Signing

Meeker Library is hosting a book signing for the book, Anna's Song, Saturday June 23 at 10:30. This is an inspirational fiction inspired by true events by authors Areline Bolerjack and Barbara Wright Jones.
6/10/12
Book Signings with Author Sandra Lawson
Author Sandra Lawson, The Best Baker in the World!, will be at Ralph Ellison Library, 2000 NE 23, OKC, Thursday, June 14 from 5-7:30 and at Full Circle Bookstore, 1900 NW Expressway, OKC, Saturday, June 16 from 3-5pm.
Everyone loves to eat the homemade treats made by The Best Baker in the World, but when her baking turns into a business, things quickly get out of hand. With cakes piles high and her love of baking gone, will her friends and family ever get to enjoy their favorite sweets again?
Author Sandra Lawson is a native of Kentucky but relocated to Oklahoma 10 years ago. Sandra enjoys baking, sewing, scrapbooking, and quilting, but she is also a registered dental hygienist. She lives in Blanchard, OK with her husband, Tony, daughter, Emily and their 2 dogs and 2 cats.
Email: sandig.lawson@gmail.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/authorsandralawson
Blog: sandralawson.blogspot.com
Email: sandig.lawson@gmail.com Facebook: Facebook.com/authorsandralawson
Blog: sandralawson.blogspot.com
Labels:
children's books,
Oklahoma authors,
Sandra Lawson
6/3/12
Book Explores Childhood of President Obama
Island Child: the Childhood of Barack Obama. This book by storyteller, Loralee Cooley and illustrated by Jillian H. Gilliland, is about the childhood of Barack Obama, the 44the President of the United States. It explores his life before age ten in Hawaii and Indonesia.
The book is a easy introduction to the life of a historic leader and a a reminder that everyone was once a child. Children will understand through descriptions of the child Barrack Obama experiences : moving to new places, being different, being in a single parent family, being part of a mixed race family, and trying to fit in this thing called life.
It's is written at a level which invites understanding for independent readers in grades 2 to 6. It could be used as a high-interest/low-level text and will definitely enhance studies of Hawaii, Presidents, Africa, Asia, families, or similar topics.
It is charmingly illustrated by chapters headers featuring symbols from Hawaii with silhouettes and images related to each chapter's content. It contains a sample recipe from Indonesia ,Chicken in Coconut Milk, as a way to extend the book and experience another culture. Other helps include a pronunciation guide for names and places, a bibliography, and a key to some of the symbols in the illustrations.
5/23/12
Author Michael Taylor
Amazon.com
Taylor's Devil's Hideaway (Tate, 2011) is a rollicking ride of adventure involving treasure, threats, and thrills!
Taylor's Devil's Hideaway (Tate, 2011) is a rollicking ride of adventure involving treasure, threats, and thrills!
Author Thelma J. Summers
"Heartthoughts" is only one of the titles by Thelma J. Summers available on Amazon.com. "Be surprised and inspired by the twists and turns that end these entertaining and heart-warming true stories that reflect God's love and care to one friend or family member after another. Let these true-to-life accounts written in her inimitable descriptive style--as one reader has said--"bring you to the feet of Jesus."
Author Ann M. Jayne
Kory's Jungle (Tate, 2010) is a delightful children's book which is sure to please readers and listeners alike.
Author Kristi Burchfiel
Author and speaker Kristi Burchfiel is known for her applicable Bible studies and devotionals. She strives to help people find encouragement hope, and truth through understanding the Bible better. Her works include: The Decay Within: A Study of Amos, Without Regrets: A Study of Ecclesiastes, The Daily Devotional Series: Gospel of John, The Daily Devotional Series: Genesis. Visit her webpage at www.kristiburchfiel.com, on Twiter at -@kristiburchfiel, and the FB page on "Without Regrets". For today's devotional: http://blog.kristiburchfiel.com
Author Heather H. Baer
Apollo's Lights (Tate,2011 ) what happens when a teenager discovers she has a special gift? 'The faces were all in shadow, the voices getting more strident with each word. My heart pounded in my chest. 'This has gone far enough,' a calm voice spoke. 'It stops here.' Shifting dark figures oozed away from the wall. 'I don't think so, my friend,' another man's cold voice retorted. I shivered. The shadows crept toward him. 'You'll never get away with this!' The man's slow, agonized moans pierced the night. Someone screamed... The scream was mine.' Adventure, action and strange powers combine in Apollo's Lights - not to be missed.
Northern Oklahoma Literary Arts Festival
Some of the people attending the event, seen here is the lovely sunroom of the Marland Grand Home, filled with author/book displays.
Authors Gene Edward Veith Jr. and Mary J. Moerbe
Family Vocation: God's Calling in Marriage, Parenting, and Childhood by Gene Edward Veith Jr. and Mary J. Moerbe ( Crossway Books, 2012 ) . What does it mean to be called as a husband, a wife, a parent, a child? How does the grace of the gospel impact how we carry out these particular callings? How does God’s presence address the struggles that our own family faces? Gene Veith joins forces with his daughter Mary Moerbe to explore these kinds of questions in light of Christian vocation and its applications for family life. They show how the Christian faith is lived out precisely in our ordinary relationships, and how a biblical understanding can equip us to move away from common confusions and dysfunctions to persevere in love.
Written with sensitivity and wisdom, Family Vocation addresses the perennial problems and joys of family life and provides a compelling paradigm for creating loving families in the face of cultural pressure.
Author David Gerard
His award book, God's Acres is available on Amazon. It was a 2011 winner of the Oklahoma Book Award.
Author Jess Davon Joslin
The book, A Trail of Broken Promises (Tate, 2010), is a novel of historic fiction but it is filled with people real enough to become part of the story, living, struggling, and dreaming with its people.
A nation torn apart. A woman ripped from her husband. A terrifying forced march. When the Cherokee nation is forced to relocate, Elsie Feather is snatched from her husband and children. Will she find her family? A Trail of Broken Promises is a gripping story of love and loss, peace and despair, and the beautiful story of love's redeeming power. Travel the Trail of Tears and experience the heartache and pain through the eyes of Elsie Feather, a young Cherokee wife who nearly loses it all and rises up to fight back at those seeking to destroy her and her people. A Trail of Broken Promises takes the reader down a dark road in the history of a nation built on religious freedom and the concept of all men being created equal.
Author Marjorie Simmons
Author of The Gift Box That Meant Everything (Tate) which is the newest work from a very prolific writer. Visit her on FB at Author Marjorie Simmons or email her at prestonsimmons111@gmail.com
Author Eyvonna Rains
"Sleep, My Child" is a delightful book that both parents and children will enjoy for many years.
5/20/12
NEW FORUMS PRESS, INC.
Author Marc Cullison was present along with New Forums Press, Inc. at the recent Ponca City, Oklahoma book event. His book, Where's The Ivy? is a new featured regional title with the NF Press. The press is the product of Dr. Douglas O. Dollar (www.newforums.com)
Labels:
Marc Cullison,
New Forums Press,
Oklahoma authors
TRANSFORMATION ROAD
![]() |
| Available from Brace Books Ponca City, Ok |
Author Sean A. Anderson lived his book and in the process the story he shares is dynamic, real, insightful and packed with challenges. The subtitle says it all Transformation Road: My Trip to over 500 Pounds and Back. More than just a 'how I did it', this is a sympathetic but challenging work highlighting the results of powerful self-empowerment. No tricks, no hype - just a role model for the trip of a lifetime.
Visit - Transformation Road
MEET STORMI BRADLEY
Native Tulsan, author Stormi Bradley, set herself a goal of achieving a life long dream. The results to date are two remarkable fiction books of struggle, challenge, and hope. Rain, Rain Go Away and Sunshine After Rain.
MEET LINDA TAYLOR
Born in Texas, author Linda Taylor, served as a missionary in Nigeria for sixteen years. That experience, and her training as a teacher, combine to produce a charming and educational book, My Dog is Barking...A Story from Nigeria
5/19/12
Ponca City Event Provides Rare Opportunity
![]() |
| Audience enjoys one of the numerous author readings in the mansion library. |
Is there anything more exciting than discovering a wonderful book? Yes, actually meeting one! The Northern Oklahoma Literary Arts Book Festival, hosted at the history Marland Grand Home in Ponca City, Oklahoma is a rare gem for the state. Set in such a elegant setting the event could soon rival events in surrounding states and across the region.
Such events are important for regional authors to make important connections with local readers and book buyers, important for regional populations to encourage reading for a lifetime, and important to local economies by stimulating local businesses and spurring activities.
Over two dozen authors from at least three states were on hand to meet the public, to talk about books, about writing, and reading in general. Authors reading from their selections in a lovely oak paneled library room surrounded by history. Check out the page tab for the NOLABF for some images from the event. A tip of the hat for one community and its endeavors to support local literacy by bringing authors and audiences together.
Labels:
author events,
book festivals,
historic homes,
Ponca City (OK)
5/17/12
MEET AUTHOR RACHEL HUNTER

Rachel Hunter has always been fascinated with words and the intricate way in which they combine. Since a child, she has been an avid writer, winding vibrant tales and elaborate stanzas on folded bits of paper.
As the years passed, her love of words never died; her adoration for reading fared no equal. Always with her nose in a book, Rachel took fondly to works spanning all genres. Yet it was the compelling grasp of fantasy and science fiction that wrenched her fascination above all.
In 2007, Rachel was selected a state winner of the Minnesota Promising Young Writers Program. Accordingly, her winning poem, "It All Starts with Creativity", was published in An Anthology of Poetry by Young Americans.
Senior year of high school proved another momentous year. A winner of the Oklahoma Young Writers Competition, Rachel was awarded with publication of her "Sestina of Elven Regret" in the 2010-2011 anthology, Growing Voices.
In March of 2012, Rachel published her first short story with Trestle Press, titled, "Perfect Nothing", which recounted her harrowing relationship with an eating disorder and was also fueled by her passion for psychology. But her writing does not end there. While currently pursuing a degree in psychology and in the medical field at the University of Oklahoma, she aspires also to illuminate the creative spark of eager readers. In her desire to incite intrigue, she is simultaneously exploring new worlds and creating vast empires of her own. "Empyreal Fate" is only the first in her Llathalan Annal series. Indeed, it is only the beginning.
As the years passed, her love of words never died; her adoration for reading fared no equal. Always with her nose in a book, Rachel took fondly to works spanning all genres. Yet it was the compelling grasp of fantasy and science fiction that wrenched her fascination above all.
In 2007, Rachel was selected a state winner of the Minnesota Promising Young Writers Program. Accordingly, her winning poem, "It All Starts with Creativity", was published in An Anthology of Poetry by Young Americans.
Senior year of high school proved another momentous year. A winner of the Oklahoma Young Writers Competition, Rachel was awarded with publication of her "Sestina of Elven Regret" in the 2010-2011 anthology, Growing Voices.
In March of 2012, Rachel published her first short story with Trestle Press, titled, "Perfect Nothing", which recounted her harrowing relationship with an eating disorder and was also fueled by her passion for psychology. But her writing does not end there. While currently pursuing a degree in psychology and in the medical field at the University of Oklahoma, she aspires also to illuminate the creative spark of eager readers. In her desire to incite intrigue, she is simultaneously exploring new worlds and creating vast empires of her own. "Empyreal Fate" is only the first in her Llathalan Annal series. Indeed, it is only the beginning.
HAVE A FANTASY SUMMER
Filled to the brim with forbidden love, an ancient evil, and a nation in disrepair, Empyreal Fate is a tale of riveting bravery and mortal corruption.
The land of Llathala lingers on the brink of war between men and elves, a dark history surrounding each race. Stirred by tensions of the land, a shadow of the past reemerges, taking precedence in reality and consuming the very soul of mans' mortal weakness.
Darrion, the son of a poor laborer, is ensnared in a hostile world, forced to choose between loyalty to his king or the counsel of the elves. Yet Fate has other plans in store, tying his course to Amarya, an elven royalblood of mysterious quality and unsurpassable beauty.
But this forbidden connection incites betrayal from members of their own kin, marking them as traitors to the crown. In a land torn asunder, only Fate's decree can allow such love to coexist with an ancient enmity
Start a fantasy this summer with author Rachel Hunter
5/12/12
CONTEST DEADLINE EXTENDED

Dear Writers,
Because of a web hosting problem - an error caused entirely by our web host - that did not allow certain browsers to access our website between the dates of May 3-May 11, we are extending our late deadline to May 31, 2012 for our 2012 competition only. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and frustration this has caused those who were attempting to submit their stories.
All problems have been addressed and rectified by the web host and our site is running smoothly once again.
Below please find the updated Guidelines entry page that appears on our website. The update also appears on our Online Submissions page as well.
Again, our deep apologies. Writing is not an easy process, but it should not be further complicated by trying to submit the work one has meticulously written and edited only to find that the submission will not go through.
With my very best wishes to you all, and my thanks for your patience and kindness,
Lorian
**IMPORTANT NOTICE: Due to a web hosting problem that has now been resolved, we have extended our 2012 deadline to May 31. This applies to our 2012 competition only.
$2,500 Awaits Winners of Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition
Writers of short fiction are encouraged to enter the 2012 Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition. The competition has a 32-year history of literary excellence, and its organizers are dedicated to enthusiastically supporting the efforts and talent of emerging writers of short fiction whose voices have yet to be heard. Lorian Hemingway, granddaughter of Nobel laureate Ernest Hemingway, is the author of three critically acclaimed books: Walking into the River, Walk on Water, and A World Turned Over. Ms. Hemingway is the competition's final judge.
Prizes and Publication:
The first-place winner will receive $1,500 and publication of his or her winning story in Cutthroat: A Journal of the Arts. The second - and third-place winners will receive $500 each. Honorable mentions will also be awarded to entrants whose work demonstrates promise.
Cutthroat: A Journal of the Arts was founded by editor-in-chief Pamela Uschuk, winner of the 2010 American Book Award for her book Crazy Love: New Poems, and by poet William Pitt Root, Guggenheim Fellow and NEA recipient. The journal contains some of the finest contemporary fiction and poetry in print, and the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition is both proud and grateful to be associated with such a reputable publication.
Eligibility requirements for our 2012 competition are as follows:
What to submit:
* Stories must be original unpublished fiction, typed and double-spaced, and may not exceed 3,500 words in length. We have extended our word limit for the first time in thirty years to 3,500 words rather than 3,000. There are no theme or genre restrictions. Copyright remains property of the author.
Who may submit:
* The literary competition is open to all U.S. and international writers whose fiction has not appeared in a nationally distributed publication with a circulation of 5,000 or more. Writers who have been published by an online magazine or who have self-published will be considered on an individual basis.
Submission requirements:
* Submissions may be sent via regular mail or submitted online. Please visit our online submissions page for complete instructions regarding online submissions. Writers may submit multiple entries, but each must be accompanied by an entry fee and separate cover sheet. We do accept simultaneous submissions; however, the writer must notify us if a story is accepted for publication or wins an award prior to our July announcements. No entry confirmation will be given unless requested. No SASE is required.
* The author's name should not appear on the story. Our entrants are judged anonymously. Each story must be accompanied by a separate cover sheet with the writer's name, complete mailing address, e-mail address, phone number, the title of the piece, and the word count. Manuscripts will not be returned. These requirements apply for online submissions as well.
* * IMPORTANT NOTICE: EXTENDED DEADLINE: May 31, 2012 for our 2012 competition only.
Deadlines and Entry Fees:
* The entry fee is $15 for each story postmarked by May 1, 2012. The late entry fee is $20 for each story postmarked by May 15, 2012. We encourage you to enter by May 1 if at all possible, but please know that your story will still be accepted if you meet the later deadline. Entries postmarked after May 15, 2012 will not be accepted. Entries submitted online after May 15, 2012 will not be accepted. Writers may submit for the 2013 competition beginning May 16, 2012.
How to pay your entry fee:
* Entry fees submitted by mail with their accompanying stories may be paid -- in U.S. funds -- via a personal check, cashier's check, or money order. Please make checks payable to LHSSC or The Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition. Entry fees for online submissions may be paid with PayPal.
Announcement of Winners and Honorable Mentions:
Winners of our 2012 competition will be announced at the end of July 2012 in Key West, Florida, and posted on our website soon afterward. Only the first-place entrant will be notified personally. All entrants will receive a letter from Lorian Hemingway and a list of winners, either via regular mail or e-mail, by October 1, 2012. All manuscripts and their accompanying entry fees should be sent to The Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition, P.O. Box 993, Key West, FL 33041 or submitted online. For more information, please explore this website or e-mail: shortstorykw@gmail.com
5/11/12
Tears for the Mountain.
On Tuesday, January 12th 2010, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake shook the island nation of Haiti. The United States Agency for International Development estimated the death toll to be somewhere between 46,000 and 85,000 people, with 220,000 injured and over 1.5 million homeless.
Many organizations, both from the U.S. and abroad, responded to the appeal for humanitarian aid. Dr. Stephen Schroering and Chris Rakunas went to Haiti to deliver over 21,000 pounds of medical and surgical supplies to the New Life Children's Home in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and several other hospitals.
In Tears for the Mountain, Chris recounts his mission to deliver these supplies to the earthquake-ravaged island nation. Chris discusses both the triumphs and heartbreaks of the trip, the problems with distributing aid in a nation lacking the most basic infrastructure, and his unexpected encounter with a notorious Haitian warlord. A portion of the proceeds for this book will be donated to the New Life Children's Home in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
To order this book at Amazon. Or, Barnes and Noble _ and locally at Clinton's Oldee's Book Store. People can always get information at www.facebook.com/tearsforthemountain
5/6/12
ADA WRITERS WILL SIGN BOOKS
The members of Ada Writers will sign copies of their new anthololgy, "Creations 2012," on Thursday, June 7, 4-6 p.m., at the Ada Public Library, 124 S. Rennie. The anthology will be available for purchase at the special hometown price of $10, regularly $12.
Readers can enjoy short stories, poems, essays, memoirs, articles, and book excerpts in the anthology, said Ken Lewis, president of Ada Writers. "We have science fiction, mysteries, ghost stories, vampires -- everyone can find a work that speaks to his or her tastes." For more about the anthology, including brief excerpts, and to buy online, visit http://www.creations2012.blogspot.com/
Lewis said the mission of Ada Writers is to provide education and support to writers in any stage of their development. The group meets the second and fourth Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. upstairs at the library.
The anthology features the work of the following Ada area authors:
Stephen B. Bagley wrote "Murder by Dewey Decimal" and "Murder by the Acre," both in the Measurements of Murder™ series. "Murder by the Mile," the third in the series, will be published in 2012. Available now is "Floozy and Other Stories," a collection of his humorous essays. His poetry has appeared in Byline, Prairie Songs, Free Star, and other print and online journals.
Arlene Aren Howell, who writes fantasy and science fiction, lives in Ada with her peaceful Chihuahua Missy and protective Sheltie. Her novel, "Tears of the Dreamer," is expected to be completed this summer. She currently serves as vice-president of Ada Writers.
Mel Hutt and his wife have been married for more than sixty years and have three children, eight grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. When his father died in 1945, he entered the Navy and served more than three years in the Pacific, including Operation Crossroads of the atomic bomb experiments at Bikini. He shares his memories in memoirs.
Ken Lewis has written several articles and short stories of different genres. His interests lie mostly in the paranormal and science fiction genres, but he enjoys exploring other avenues of the art. He’s currently a student of the Longridge Writer’s Group, where he continues to hone the writing craft. He’s a firm believer in “Life is learning.”
Rick Litchfield has a handful of poetry published in globally distributed anthologies. Most notably, The Choice in "The International Who’s Who in Poetry" from 2005. And Shibboleth in "The Best Poems and Poets of 2007."
Martha Rhynes, a retired teacher, began her writing career by researching the lives of American authors and writing biographies and analyses of their work for inclusion in literary encyclopedias. Her book-length biographies include: "I, Too, Sing America, The Story of Langston Hughes"; "Gwendolyn Brooks, Poet from Chicago"; "Ralph Ellison: Author of Invisible Man"; "Jack London: Writer of Adventure"; and "Ray Bradbury: An Illustrated Life." Her works of fiction include numerous short stories and three novels: "The Secret of the Pack Rat’s Nest," "The War Bride," and "Man on First."
L. D. Robb writes novels and short stories inspired by the challenges of everyday life enjoying a near wilderness and rustic farm life. She lives without many modern conveniences, seeking a self-sustainable way of life, which allows self-introspection and acceptance of the natural processes of existence. She enjoys science fiction and uses that genre to build allegorical stories based on real life events and beliefs. She has so far written two novels in the Apex One series: "Volume One, Epochs in Time" and "Volume Two, Stratégie Royal, War and Honor." The third titled, "Volume Three, The Brothers of The Libertane/ Origins of the Commonwealth," is underway.
Steve Robb lives with his wife in rural Oklahoma. He is a career ‘Over the Road’ truck driver and is an avid reader. He does little in the way of writing himself, preferring to encourage others in the development of their skills. He has found the written word to be a source of inspiration and solace through the difficult times in his life.
Jeri Elise Tilman lives on a small private farm in central Oklahoma, off the power grid, in a home powered by solar and wind. Jeri writes poetry, short stories, and essays on social and cultural awareness, as well as How To’s on organic gardening, animal husbandry, and natural living. Jeri lectures for women’s groups on recovery from abuse, volunteers time as a lay counselor for mental health and social support groups online and in person, and works as an advocate for acceptance of ‘self’ within the spectrum of human existence.
Joanne Verbridge was born in Oakland, California, spending her life experiences in Northern California. Family brought her to Oklahoma where she enjoys taking time to write about those experiences. She is trying to inspire her young nieces to take an interest in story telling and writing.
Gail Wood has written all her life. “It is as natural to me as breathing. I love the written word, all the nuances, the connotations, the music. I write for a living, but it is in the perverted world of grants, reports, and strategic plans – the bureaucratic graveyard for words," she says. "Besides writing, I have a passion for Zumba® even though I will always be a back row dancer. I love the outdoors and all things natural. The best part of my life is yet to come.”
Tom Yarbrough is the author of three books and numerous articles focusing on helping people improve themselves. He is currently writing two non-fiction works being considered by outside readers and publishers. After a long career in counseling and education, he now spends his time with full time writing, family concerns, and hobbies like Rendezvous (an 1840 living history camp) and making bookmarks called Shepherd Staffs.
5/5/12
Chisholm Trail Book Festival Canceled
The Chisholm Trail Book Festival scheduled for September of 2012 in Duncan, Oklahoma. has been canceled due to unforeseen problems. They hope to re-asses and plan for a 2013 event in January. In the meantime, keep checking their website for updates and announcements.
5/2/12
Vampire Story with Bite
Enid, Oklahoma's own Brian N. Young continues his launch into the steam punk genre with the release of news about the expanded Silent War series. A dramatic and intriguing story line is inventively woven through the first book De Civitate Sanguino: The City of the Bloodthirsty. Recently released through Damnation Books,a publisher specializing in dark horror, and others are already in the works. It is sure to be a favorite series of not only Oklahoma Steam Punk followers but any who love Gothic, Vampire, Adventure, and Historical fiction. Young holds degrees in history from Northwestern University and University of Wales, Lampeter. To order go here.
Labels:
Brian N. Young,
Enid (OK),
Horror authors,
Oklahoma (Fiction),
Vampires
4/28/12
Authors Gather in Local Event
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