I have been working in business for over forty years and now have the time to work in special areas of interest. My passion has always been to create compelling stories of fiction. I have authored six novels and am working on my Seventh. The first novel is still in manuscript form and being utilized as a door stop in the laundry room. The second is a contemporary fiction novel of 89,000 words and is complete and I am currently seeking a publisher. I also write poetry but have not had the guts to share any with anyone. The one time I read a piece to a person their only comment was, “it doesn’t rhyme.” I will continue to write and hopefully my blog, Fiction Favorites at www.johnwhowell.com will provide some entertainment and an interesting thought or two.
I live in the Austin area with my wife Molly and an assortment of loving pets.
“They say everyone has a story to tell. I wrote my first childish “masterpiece” at six and was immediately bitten by the writing bug. Since then, I’ve been composing nonstop, and have dabbled in multiple genres over the years, writing everything from fantasy, westerns, and horror to inspirational fiction, romance, and sci-fi.
It took me a while to find my niche, but I’ve settled comfortably into the mystery/suspense genre. I have a passion for folklore, myth, and urban legends and that attraction often factors into my writing. You’ll find threads of archaic tales, cryptids, and mysterious places woven throughout many of my novels.
Professionally, I am a member of the Mystery Writers of America, the International Thriller Writers, and a past president of the Central Pennsylvania Writer’s Organization. I’m also proud to be one of the founding members of the award-winning writing blog Story Empire.
If I’m not camped out at my keyboard or have my nose buried in a book, I’m likely looking up blurry images of cryptids on Google, sorting through vintage photographs, or imagining life as a cat. In closing, I leave you with:
12 Weird and Stupid Facts about Me
My favorite number is 12. Surprised aren’t you?
Although I only have one cat (Raven), I suffer from OCD—Obsessive Cat Disorder
I saw a UFO when I was 6 (don’t laugh!)
I’ve taken two trips in search of the legendary Mothman
I’m passionate about folklore, urban legends, and cryptozoology
I enjoy watching bats soar overhead at twilight
If I had a superpower, I’d choose the ability to fly
I have a bizarre fear of bears
I like exploring old graveyards
I’m fascinated by American history and earth sciences
My favorite color is blue
As riveting as they are, these facts are subject to change”
“Give it to me straight. Lucy. Don’t tell me it’s Wednesday.” “It’s Wednesday.” “I said don’t tell that.”
It is Wednesday Story Day again. Last week we learned that Lazar is willing to testify against Taggert and Cortez. We also learned that Lazar’s daughter Carolyn will need to be protected more sooner than later. The ADA, Pricilla Thomas, left the room to make some phone calls, and she is now heading back in. Let’s find out what she has been able to arrange to protect Carolyn.
“Okay, Lazar. I was able to set up a call between the FBI and Mi5, their British equivalent. It has been decided that Mi5 will go to Carolyn’s school and take her into protective custody. This will happen as soon as possible after you place the call to her. There are two agents heading to Oxfordshire from London now. It’s going to take them ninety minutes or so to get to her. Right now, it is past eight o’clock in the evening in the UK. Do you know where your daughter might be?”
“I know she studies a lot, so I would say she is in her dorm room.”
“We can get an exact location when you talk to her. We will have to send that location to our contacts in the FBI, who will then relay it to Mi5.”
“Shouldn’t we call her now?”
“Just one more thing. Once Mi5 has her, they will take her to a safe place to spend the night. We will have scrambled a private jet out of DC, and they will be landing at the Oxford airport at about 0700 hours local time.”
“Huh”
“Sorry. About 7:00 A.M.”
“Oh.”
“The agent aboard will take custody of Carolyn, and the plane will head back to the US. Any questions so far.”
“Yeah, when does she sleep?”
“Mi5 will have a place.”
“When will I see her?’
“We will get you both into a safe house just as soon as we can. You will have 24/7 security. We want both of you to be very safe. So, you ready to make the call?”
“I guess. I’ll need my phone. I have her number programmed in.”
“Yes, here it is.”
“Just a minute. It’s ringing. Come on, sweetheart. Pick up your phone. Damn, it’s going to voicemail.”
“Tell her to call you immediately. It’s urgent.”
“Hi, Carolyn honey. This is dad. I need to talk to you right away. It’s urgent. Please call. I love you.”
“Now send her a text. Tell her she needs to call.”
“I get that. I’m not an idiot. Just a second. I sent it.”
“I guess we wait.”
“While we are waiting, let me ask a question.”
“Sure, Lazar, go ahead.”
“How long do you think it will take to go to trial?”
“Eighteen months if we are lucky.”
“So, we will be in custody for eighteen months?”
“Yes. Why?”
“I’m not sure my daughter will go for that.”
“She’ll have to. You will need to explain the risk to her life.”
“Wait, here’s the phone. Hello, Carolyn, sweetie, how are you? No, no, no. I’m fine; it’s just that we have a situation. Don’t worry about being in the shower. I’m just glad to be able to talk to you.”
“Put her on speaker.”
“Carolyn honey, I’m going to put you on speaker. I know you hate that, but it’s necessary okay?”
“Okay, dad. What is going on.”
“Well, I’m here with some people from the government, and we need to be concerned with your safety.”
“Government? What kind of people from the government.”
“Hi, Carolyn. My name is Pricilla Thomas, and I’m with the Federal District Attorney’s office. We have some important things to cover with you.”
“District Attorney’s office? What kind of trouble are you in, dad.”
“Pretty big trouble, sweetheart.”
“Tell me.”
“Your dad has been doing business with some underworld characters and got caught. These nice people want me to turn states evidence in exchange for protection from these criminals.”
“Oh my gosh, Dad. States Evidence means to testify.”
“That’s right, honey.”
“Against who?”
“Cortez.”
“Oh, father. How did you get into this in the first place? I have read about him in my criminology course. He is not a nice person.”
“I know, honey. These folks are going to protect us, which brings me to the reason for my call.”
“I’m still curious about how you got involved.”
“Can we cover that later, darling? I need to give you some information.”
“You know you’ve been my rock, Dad. Since mom died, I’ve looked up to you, and you’ve never let me down. Tell me it’s going to be still true.”
“I’m not proud of myself, Honeybun.”
“Oh, daddy, I don’t want to believe that. Tell me everything.”
Indie Author Harmony Kent is an award-winning multi-genre author. Her publications include:
The Battle for Brisingamen (Fantasy Fiction) AIA approved
The Glade (Mystery/Thriller) AIA Approved/BRAG Medallion Honouree/New Apple Literary Awards Official Selection Honours 2015
Polish Your Prose: Essential Editing Tips for Authors (Writing/Editing) New Apple Literary Awards Top Medallist Honours 2015
Finding Katie (Women’s Fiction)
Slices of Soul (Contemporary Poetry)
Interludes (Erotic Short Stories)
Moments (Short Stories and Poetry)
Jewel in the Mud (Zen Musings)
Backstage (Erotic Romance)
FALLOUT (Post-Apocalyptic Dystopia)
As well as being an avid reader and writer, Harmony also offers reviews and supports her fellow indie authors, Harmony works hard to promote and protect high standards within the indie publishing arena. She is always on the look out for talent and excellence, and will freely promote any authors or books who she feels have these attributes.
Well, that’s the official biography … Harmony also has violent tendencies and forced me to add a not quite so official version …
Harmony Kent is famous for her laughter, and has made quite the name for herself … she’s also, um, a writer … and fairly well known for that too. She lives in rural Cornwall with her ever-present sense of humour, adorable husband, and quirky neighbours. Read on for ten things Harmony thinks you should know about her … Ten Things:
Born in 2013 (at least the author was …)
Really boring
Has absolutely no sense of humour
Biographer is a compulsive liar
Reads … a lot
Writes … even more
Completely sane(in)
Neighbours are nuts (so Harmony fits right in!)
If you’re feeling extra brave, she’s around
Online …
I’m so pleased to be with L. Marie today as she graciously gives me the opportunity to visit and discuss Eternal Road – The final stop. She asks some very good questions and I appreciate the opportunity to provide the answers. Thank you again, L. Marie. It is a real pleasure.
Today on the blog I’m happy to have the one and only John Howell here to talk about his latest novel, Eternal Road. It was published on August 23. Go here to read a synopsis of the book. Now, give it up for John!
John: Thank you so much for having me on your blog today, Linda. I certainly appreciate being here with you.
El Space: My pleasure, John. Four quick facts about yourself? John: 1. I write every day.
2. I’ll be 80 years old in the spring.
3. I am a pantster and do not outline my work.
4. When I begin a novel, I write the last three lines and then go back and write to that conclusion.
El Space: Groovy! What inspired you to write this book? I can’t help thinking of a film from 1978 called Heaven Can Wait. The premise of that film…
“Using this photo (below) as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; even just a caption for the photograph. Either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithchanning@gmail.com before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here.
Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries next Monday.”
“I grew up in Western Pennsylvania writing stories and poetry in my free time, so no one was surprised when I became a writing major in college. After receiving creative and professional writing degrees from Carnegie Mellon University, I went on to get my Master’s Degree in Professional Writing, and I worked in corporate communications until I had my children. Now I’m a freelance writer and editor and even work under a pen name or two.
Bonus! Ten (Little Known?) Facts About Me
In addition to being an award-winning author, I’m an award-winning recipe developer. I think I got that skill from my grandmother. We both love cooking and baking, especially for family.
When I had my wisdom teeth removed, the surgeon insisted I’d feel like my cheeks were sewn to my gums but assured me they wouldn’t be and the feeling would pass. My parents grew increasingly frustrated with me over the week I was recovering because I couldn’t open my mouth. They thought I was “being overly dramatic” and I should just deal with the pain and use my mouth. Guess what… my cheeks were in fact sewn to my gums. It’s unheard of, but if it could happen to anyone, it would happen to me.
Speaking of teeth…I’ve never had a cavity. Ever. Baby teeth or permanent teeth.
I adore my pets. I know; most pet owners do. But it might interest you to know I never had a pet until we got first Casey, then Max, and finally Lucky. I had a pet-free childhood. Not even a goldfish.
I can still do a split. Enough said.
I play the clarinet, although I’m pretty rusty right now. (Use it or lose it, and I haven’t been using it lately.)
I taught myself how to type. You can’t really be a writer hunting-and-pecking the keys.
While most of my work is inspired by my Italian heritage, I’m also part Irish, Scottish, German, and Swedish. (All from Dad’s side. Mom is full-blooded Italian.) I’m working on integrating more of my dad’s side into my work. (My serial Laci and Del series focuses on the Irish heritage, but I haven’t explored those roots too much yet.)
I could spell “Valentine” by the time I was three.
The first time I earned four-figures from freelancing, it was actually a ghost-writing job, so my name isn’t even on the project.”
“My name is Helen Valentina, and I am a writer who loves to explore why we do the things we do and how our characters are formed by our beliefs and actions. This blog will mainly showcase my poetry, but will also promote my longer works – such as novels.
The theme of Elemental Writing I am using is an attempt to identify the key element of any piece of work – for instance, poetry or prose that mainly reflects emotional ideas would be ‘water’, whereas ego, action, and passion ideas might be best identified as ‘fire’ and so on.
This partly reflects a separate interest of mine, the tarot deck, and its elucidation of life in terms of the elements depicted in the Minor Arcana (Cups= Water/emotions, Swords= Air/intellect, Pentacles = Earth/the material, and Wands= Fire/passion, action and ego.) when considered against the journey of the soul’s development through the Major Arcana.
But this isn’t a New Age blog, it’s just a theme to organise my work, so don’t feel you have to get out incense and meditation tapes to spend any time here. 🙂
Now my words.
Helen writes passionate and compelling poetry and stories. Her work always leaves me thinking about what she wrote. I have images to consider that Helen has conjured with her words. She is a true artist whose medium is the written word.
Here is a short poem written by Helen
Weep for Us
In this hour
As our foolishness descends
And of our friends
Are only foes
We scarce can comprehend our woes
Then close your wings
Around these sacred things
And weep for us
In this year
When sanity gave way to fear
And all comes clear
This wretched fate
We only understand too late
Please close your wings
And from the seat of heaven sing
And weep for us
Official poster of the 1st Cannes Film Festival illustrated by Leblanc
This week marks the 74th anniversary of the first Cannes Film Festival. We all want to go, I’m sure so let’s pile into the Olds and head back there. Do not forget the list, so we all can avoid a time continuum tear. All set. Let’s go.
James’ 1956 Oldsmobile from Eternal Road – The final stop
10 If you go, do not take that plastic water bottle with you. If you do, at best, everyone will be looking at movie stars and not see you. At worst, someone will observe your bottle and want one. (The problem is, Marion, the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle was not invented until 1973. Now a person is yelling at you, demanding you tell them where you got the bottle. Oh-oh, A crowd and the gendarmes are headed your way.)
9 If you go, do not ask Tiny, the WWF champ, if he knows any movie stars. If you do, at best, he is pals with Lon Chaney. At worst, he does not know one. (This simple question, Markell, has caused Tiny to regress from his last group session on self-esteem. Tiny will assume everyone knows stars, and he is the only one who doesn’t. Prepare yourself for Tiny’s new wrestle hold called “The Pretzel.”)
8 If you go, do not ask directions to Palais des Festivals. If you do, at best, no one will know. At worst, you will ask a member of the planning committee. (Since the Palais des Festivals which is the home of the festival, was not built until 1952, you are now outed as either a spy or an alien, Marley. I think spy might be a better choice since there is no war going on, so you won’t be shot.)
7 If you go, do not ask which movie got the Palme d’Or this year. If you do, at best you’ll get strange looks. At worst, you’ll ask a member of the provincial government of France. (It just so happens, Marlow, that the member was in several meetings where the idea of a new award was tossed around. The current prize is Grand Prix du Festival. You now need to explain yourself. Quickly)
6 If you go, do not try to speak French. If you do, at best, no one will laugh. At worst, your American accent will cause most to walk away. (You have to realize, Marmion, not everyone appreciates you trying to speak the local language. In fact, here comes a representative of Berlitz Language Schools at the request of the locals.)
5 If you go, do not give your opinion about any of the films. If you do, at best, people will think you are a jurist. At worst, you may be overheard by a legitimate jurist. ( Now you are in it, Marque. These folks do not take impersonating a jurist lightly. Since there were only 18 jurists in total and the American was Iris Barry of MOMA, you didn’t stand a chance. Nice try with that wig.)
4 If you go, do not try to place bets that Lost Weekend by Billy Wilder will win an award. If you do, at best, no one will take the bet. At worst, even though the festival is being held in the Casino of Cannes, betting is not sanctioned. (It looks like the local gendarmes and French historian Georges Huisman acting as the Jury President want to speak to you. By the way, Marque you would have won all the bets. Too bad you can’t collect now that you are sitting in the hoosegow.)
3 If you go, do not argue with Italian director Roberto Rossellini about a better ending to his film Open City. If you do, at best, Roberto will think you are nuts. At worst, Roberto will take offense to your comments. (That glove slap to the face, Marsden means you two will be going outside for a duel. I hope you know how to use a sword or a cap lock pistol. Oh my. Well, maybe you can sneak off a Google them.)
2 If you go, do not say anything wrong about the Escargot served at the award banquet. If you do, at best, those around you may not like them either. At worst, your opinion will be overheard by the Chef. (You have to wonder, Marshal, how that person became such a renowned chef and yet be so thin-skinned. In any case, that butcher knife looks really sharp, and it may be time to test your 100 yard dash speed time.)
1 If you go, do not kid Alfred Hitchcock about the fact that his film Notorious’ three reels were shown in reverse order. If you do, at best, he’ll be preoccupied trying to find out who the projectionist was. At worst, since he’s not known as the most patient man, he will not appreciate your humor. (Alfred Hitchcock was once accused of saying, “Actors are cattle.” He violently denied the accusation, Martell, and corrected the accuser. “I never said Actors are cattle,” he argued. “What I said was actors should be treated like cattle.” So now he has a cattle prod, and you should be leaving.)
I’m with Charles Yallowitz at his blog Legends of Windemere. Come on over there is another new excerpt from Eternal Road – The final stop. Here is the link.
Charles Yallowitz was born and raised on Long Island, NY, but he has spent most of his life wandering his own imagination in a blissful haze. Occasionally, he would return from this world for the necessities such as food, showers, and Saturday morning cartoons. One day he returned from his imagination and decided he would share his stories with the world. After spending many years fiddling with his thoughts and notebooks, he decided that it was time to follow his dream of being a fantasy author. So, locked within the house with only pizza and seltzer to sustain him, Charles brings you tales from the world of Windemere. He looks forward to sharing all of his stories with you and drawing you into a world of magic.
