Author: John W. Howell

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.

Views of the Neighborhood

~ John W. Howell ~ 47 Comments

As most of the Christian world knows last Tuesday was Fat Tuesday which marks the last day before the beginning of Lent. In New Orleans, the event is characterized by the last of the Mardi Gras parades. Not to be outdone Port Aransas Has its own version of a Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras parade. I must tell you that I took over 100 photos of the show and can only give you a representative sample of the participating members. So here is the Mardi Gras parade Port Aransas style.

The parade started with two police cars leading the way

Port Aransas Mardi Gras

This is a photo of some typical participants.  Adult beverages were de rigor.

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The float members were pitching beads and candy to the bystanders.

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Here is a boat theme. Wonder how they got that idea? Notice the guy picking up the beads. He didn’t even have to take off his shirt.

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This is the only photo of the fifty golf carts in the parade. It is typical, and most look similar.

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Another boat. Go figure.

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This Humvee was well decorated. Lots of candy came off this baby.

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This child was very cute, so I kept it in.

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This float is actually a portable bar that visits the beach now and then

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I thought the motorized chair showed a lot of grit and so typical of the spirit of Port Aransas. A big applause was given.

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There is a Parrot Head chapter in Port Aransas. I know a big shock.

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Here is the Chamber of Commerce float and of course the guy is texting and floating. Probably ordering carry out.

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There were some cool cars in the parade like this Camaro.

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This float got the Awwwww award. Seemed strange having innocent children in a celebration of overindulgence. They were cute, though.

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Here’s a red Chevy

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And a custom hot rod from Colorado

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My favorite was this vintage Pontiac. I think it is a 1949 and it is in pristine condition

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The parade ended with the EMS team.

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I hope you like the parade. It was very much fun and I collected a lot of beads and candy as well.

Stream of Consciousness Saturday – Prompt “Project”

~ John W. Howell ~ 42 Comments

SOCS

It is Stream of Consciousness Saturday time again. This week’s prompt is “project.” Linda Hill says we can use it any way we want. (Oh joy). If you would like to join this rag-tag outfit go to Linda’s blog and read the rules, then send each of us a six pack of very expensive beer. Here is the link.

The Friday Reminder and Prompt for #SoCS Mar. 4/17

Project by John W. Howell © 2017

“Attention class. Today we are going to discuss the semester project.”

“Excuse me, Mr. Winther.”

“Yes, Michelle. You have a question?”

“I do sir. Can we select any member of the class to be project team members?”

“Well, although that is a good idea, Michelle this project is going to be an individual project.”

“Oh. You mean we can’t get others to help?”

“You should complete the project on your own. Now class. The first thing we should decide is what each of our projects will be. We should try to avoid any duplication.”

“Mr. Winther, sir.”

“Yes, Michelle?”

“I want to have the first pick of the project I want to do.”

“And why should that be, Michelle?”

“I’m the one with the highest GPA.”

“That’s not how we are doing it. We are going to list the projects on pieces of paper and each student will get a chance to draw their project out of a hat.”

“Mr. Winther?”

“Yes, Michelle.”

“Can I go first to draw?”

“We are going by last name Michelle.”

“That means I will be last.”

“It really doesn’t matter. All the projects are good ones.”

“I hate to be last, and I just know my project will suck.”

“Now Miss Zielinski we do not use language like that in my class.”

“I’m sorry, sir. I got carried away.”

“That is okay. If there are no more questions everyone, please pick a project.”

“I just knew it. My project sucks.”

“Miss Zielinski, please. What is your project?”

” To solve world hunger.”

“Now that is a very nice project, Michelle and If you do it properly, you will have your wings in no time. Let’s not hear any more complaining.”

 

 

Friday – AKA TGIF

~ John W. Howell ~ 47 Comments

TGIF

Maybe it’s me but this week seemed to crawl by. I can’t put my finger on the reason, it just felt like a long week. Well, be that as it may, it is almost over for the work part. I was glad to get My GRL launched and am so grateful for all the support this week.

Now have to turn my attention to whipping Circumstances of Childhood into shape. I heard from my beta readers, and there are a few refinements that are needed. I can’t imagine publishing a book without giving it to folks to read. They always spot some anomalies that never occur to the writer. I am gratified no one said it sucked, so I have the courage to continue forward.

I hope your week was well spent and that you have a glorious weekend. This week’s JohnKu talks a little about how we need each other. I hope you enjoy it.

You by John W. Howell © 2017

You are always there,

Supporting and cheering on. . .

I appreciate.

Review Revisited: My Grl by John Howell #thriller #ASMSG #99cents

~ John W. Howell ~ 9 Comments

Thought you would like to see a super review by Charles Yallowitz the author of the Legends of Windemere a hard to put down fantasy series. He also writes action/adventure books and I’m reading Chasing Bedlam his latest.

Charles Yallowitz's avatarLegends of Windemere

My GRL

To celebrate John W. Howell’s re-release of his first novel, I’m reposting my review.  First, let me say the following:

GET MY GRL for 99 cents!

Now for the review that originally went live in 2014:

This was my first time reading a mystery/thriller and I expected there to be tons of action and intrigue.  Instead, I found a lot of suspense and colorful characters that kept me wanting to read more.  The pacing is fast at most points and there’s very little lingering on scenes.  A plot point is hit, suspicions are raised, twists occur, and then off to the next leg of the adventure.

I know from that description it sounds like I’m saying this is rushed, but it’s the opposite.  The speed of the story is one that tickles your nerves because you’re always wondering what something means.  A few times you even wonder if there’s a…

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Thursday – A little Personal- Kreative Kue #112 by Keith Channing

~ John W. Howell ~ 31 Comments

Usually, this post is on Tuesday but due to the My GRL relaunch, I decided to post it here. Keith Channing will explain in his words. “Using this photo (below) as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; and either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithkreates@channing.fr 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 – pingbacks don’t often work.

Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries, with links to your own blog or web site, next Monday.

Here is the photo.

Kreative Kue #112

“Omar where are you? Omar answer me.”

“Here let me put you on speaker. I’m taking a selfie with this beautiful sports car. Go ahead.”

“For heaven’s sake where are you?”

“I’m at the mall.”

“What on Earth are you doing at the mall?”

“You said to go get some ice cream. You know this place has the best.”

“Omar. I thought you would just go to the little store on the corner.”

“No my love. You deserve the best. This ice cream shop has over forty flavors.”

“But I only like vanilla.”

“They have the best vanilla. It’s made with real vanilla beans.”

“I appreciate your wanting to get the best, but you are now an hour away Omar. I’m not sure I can wait until you get back. I think it is time.”

“Time? You mean—”

“Yes, Omar. I need to get started now.”

“But I’m an hour away. ”

“I know. That was your choice.”

“My darling I’m so sorry. I thought I was doing the right thing.”

“Obviously you made a mistake, Omar and I hope you won’t regret it.”

“Are you going to do it without me?”

“I have no choice now. it is almost too late.”

“Can I call someone to help?”

“This is something I wanted to do with you. Now I’m alone and will just have to carry on.”

“You are the bravest. Maybe later I can make it up to you.’

“Well, you are losing out on the experience so maybe there is where the justice lies”

“My heart aches.”

“I know Omar. Don’t forget you are a good man.”

“You sure you can’t put it off?”

“This is not something where I have the control, Omar. If I could I would.”

“Enjoy then. I know you like your pie at the perfect temperature. Go ahead. Eat without me.”

“I’ll save you a piece Omar.”

 

 

Five Ways to Contact Your Favorite Author – Guest Post by John W. Howell…

~ John W. Howell ~ 6 Comments

So honored to guest post on Chris The Story Reading Ape’s blog. I imagine It is like playing Carnegie Hall. A real honor. Thanks, Chris. A visit to Chris’ blog is a must for every serious writer. There is so much information there and an opportunity to let folks know what you think.

Chris The Story Reading Ape's avatarChris The Story Reading Ape's Blog

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Since I have been asked a number of times by readers how to contact authors, I thought it would be good to provide a little reminder information about what you can do if you enjoy a book or author’s work and you want to get to know that author better.

 We all have the times when a book or series of books talk to us as if the author wrote the text for us alone. I remember reading the short stories of John Cheever many years ago. It was almost as if John had entered my life and was telling tales about me as a person. As a result, I wanted to make contact with him but had no idea how. In those days, most authors used their publisher as a shield from their readers. You could pen a note and hope it somehow got through. I did compose…

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Wednesday Story Day – AKA – Hump Day

~ John W. Howell ~ 56 Comments

Well, well, well last week we left Alice having to calm her son over the loss of a girlfriend. Some would wonder if the previous week’s episode was a meaningless diversion or had, in fact, some import to the story. I will let you all make up your mind at some point. I think it’s time to return and see what Lucas (Hey, have you noticed that Lucas and Marcus both have names ending in a cus sound?) Where was I? Oh yes, we should return to see what Lucas is up to right now.
“Hey boy.”
“Y-yes sir Sheriff?”
“You seen Alice?”
“She left about ten minutes ago.”
“Got a call from that idiot kid of hers. Said he couldn’t reach her.”
“She had her phone and took a call.”
“Now that’s strange.”
“What sir?”
“That you know she took the call.”
“I was with her when the phone rang. She answered it.”
“What did she say?”
“Nothing really. Hey, wait a minute. Maybe you should ask her.”
“I’m asking you smart ass. I get a call from a momma’s boy whining about his mother so I have a right to know.”
“She gave me the impression that she was going to call him back.”
“When?”
“When what?”
“When was she going to call him?”
“I don’t know. Is there a problem that you’re not mentioning?”
“Naw. No problem it’s just that kid gets on my last nerve. It’s like he can’t go two minutes without talking to his momma. Then when he can’t reach her, he calls me.”
“Pretty drastic calling the sheriff isn’t it?”
“Not that it is any of your business, but I’m his paw.”
“You’re kidding.”
“Watch it junior. “
“I mean you and Alice have a kid?”
“So?”
“Oh, nothing. Did you call Alice?”
“Not really worth it.”
“You could determine if she is okay and called her kid.”
“First off she doesn’t take my calls. Second who gives a crap anyway.”
“Just trying to help.”
“Yeah, I know. Sorry son. Our family is complicated.”

Tuesday Anything Possible – Announcing the Re-Launch of My GRL By John W. Howell #RRBC #ASMSG

~ John W. Howell ~ 51 Comments

Announcing the re-launch of My GRL

My GRL

The cover is new and the book edited once again to enhance the experience. What is really nice is the price has been cut for the introduction. You can buy the kindle version for a special introduction price of

$0.99

Here’s the blurb.

John J. Cannon successful San Francisco lawyer takes a well-deserved leave of absence from the firm and buys a boat he names My GRL. He is unaware that his newly purchased boat had already been targeted by a terrorist group. John’s first inkling of a problem is when he wakes up in the hospital where he learns he was found unconscious next to the dead body of the young woman who sold him the boat in the first place. John now stands between the terrorists and the success of their mission. Amazon for the kindle version

Here is the link to Amazon for the Kindle version

Here is the link to Amazon for the Paper version

Check them out and read the first few pages on Amazon.

Also, you can check out John Cannon’s other two adventures, as well as, the new My GRL at John W. Howell’s Author Page

his-revenge-front-finalour-justice-front

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Author Bio

John began his writing as a full-time occupation after an extensive business career. His specialty is thriller fiction novels, but John also writes poetry and short stories.  His first book, My GRL, introduces the exciting adventures of the book’s central character, John J. Cannon. The second Cannon novel, His Revenge, continues the adventure, while the final book in the trilogy, Our Justice, launched in September 2016.  All books are available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.

John lives in Port Aransas, Texas with his wife and their spoiled rescue pets.

Top Ten Things Not to Do While Bungee Jumping

~ John W. Howell ~ 62 Comments

Bungee jumping

 

The inspiration for this list was the desire to do a top ten post that would provide no useful information but just humor. I picked bungee jumping since I’m sure most of you have never contemplated doing something that obscure. If you have then all the better. The point is I hope you enjoy the list even though it may not apply to you.

Top Ten Things Not to Do While Bungee Jumping.

10 While Bungee jumping, do not attempt to light your smoke. If you do, at best you’ll still be trying at the bottom of the jump. At worst, you ‘ll be successful, and between the highs and lows of the jump, your shirt is now on fire. (Tough to put out with this wind huh, Bunky?)

9 While Bungee Jumping, do not attempt to tighten your ankle cuffs. If you do at best, you will turn the keys the proper way for tightening. At worst, you’ll be confused loosen them instead. (Sure feels funny this free flight thing huh, Pilgrim?)

8 While Bungee jumping, do not try to impress your friends with too many acrobatics. If you do, at best that Triple Lux with come off without a hitch. At worst you have extended the Bungee’s about one foot too far. (Could have used that foot when you hit the canyon floor huh, Buford?)

7 While Bungee jumping, do not try to eat your leftover Pad Thai mid-air. If you do, at best you might get a bite or two. At worst, you’ll finish the jump looking like the after photo of a food fight. (If you are careful you can save some of those noodles, Buster.)

6 While Bungee jumping, do not group text your friends. If you do, At best your text won’t be understood. At worst, the auto correct feature will alienate every friend you have. (You thought the message, “Best of Luck to You,” would be well received huh, Leroy?”)

5 While Bungee jumping, do not edit your latest manuscript. If you do, at best you get one or two words covered before the first bounce. At worst, the wind will take your manuscript and spread it over several miles. (Should have numbered those pages huh, Slick?)

4 While Bungee jumping, do not close your eyes on the way down. If you do, at best you might miss the good parts. At worst, the ride personnel will assume you’ve passed out and will throw you into an EMS vehicle despite your protestations. (Who ever heard of someone taking a nap on a bungee jump, Ferd?)

3 While Bungee jumping, do not jump before taking care of that 32 oz Big Gulp drink you just finished. If you do, at best you’ll feel like a full watermelon when the g-forces hit you at the bottom. At worst, you treat all the bystanders to a show at your expense. (Now where are you going to find some dry pants, Tex?)

2 While Bungee jumping, do not turn the GoPro camera to capture your face. If you do, at best you forgot to turn it on. At worst, the video of you screaming like a kid will go viral. (You could have taken some beautiful shots of the valley, but no you had to be a hero, huh Ralph?)

1 While Bungee jumping, do not forget to tip the cuff connector guy. If you do, at best you can take care of it after the jump is over. At worst, Tiny the WWF champ was highly offended you forgot him. (That ground comes up fast without those bothersome lines huh, Burt?)

Author Interview: John W. Howell

~ John W. Howell ~ 12 Comments

Laurie Bell was kind enough to interview me this week. She has an interesting series of interviews and other features on her blog titled Rambles, Writing and Amusing Musings. Her subheading is “Smile! Laugh Out Loud! Enjoy the Following” so you know a visit is worthwhile.

Laurie Bell's avatarRambles, writing and amusing musings

This is the sixth interview in my series of Author Interviews.

Pull up a chair, sit back and relax. Enjoy reading.

Introducing John W. Howell, author of My GRL, His Revenge and Our Justice

john-howell-headshotmy-grl-front hisrevenge our-justice-front

Imagine if you will a gorgeously sunny afternoon. The sun is beginning to drop into the ocean. A soft wind is drawing fluffy white streaks into mesmerizing pictures. Ships bob in the nearby dock. There is a little table outside a beach side café. I drop into the seat opposite my next guest.

Hi John, it’s so good of you to give me a little of your time. First up, tell me a bit about yourself.

My day starts in the morning with a big cup of coffee and a few e-mails. Then it is off to the beach with the two boxers and my wife. Depending on the day of the week, next…

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