A Touch of Redemption

Last Thursday, I went for a routine blood test, which has always been challenging due to my very small veins. I was directed from one department to another until finally reaching the blood collection area where many patients were waiting. Despite my upcoming elective procedure on Monday requiring these results, I still needed to wait my turn.

When my time came, the phlebotomist struggled as expected. In a final attempt, she asked me to stretch out both hands, successfully drawing blood from each—though it was quite painful. This experience sparked a profound thought: the discomfort in my hands reminded me of Christ’s crucifixion, though my momentary pain was insignificant compared to His suffering.

What makes this reflection especially meaningful is the Easter season we’re celebrating today! Jesus didn’t remain on that cross or in the tomb—He conquered death and rose again! As the Scripture beautifully declares, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said,” (Matthew 28:6).

This resurrection isn’t just a historical event but offers hope to everyone. The promise that “because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19) transcends religious boundaries, inviting all to consider what new beginnings might be possible in their lives.

Whether you share my faith in Christ Jesus or not, Easter’s themes of renewal, hope, and perseverance through suffering speak to the universal human experience. Even from small moments of discomfort can come beautiful reflections on life’s deeper meaning.

May we all find moments of peace, renewal and joy during this season!

Happy Easter my friends!

Much love, always!💞😊

The Rewrite

Apr5

There’s a profound difference between the stories we write and the stories we live. As a writer, I’ve shelved countless manuscripts—unfinished works waiting for my return, my revisions, my second chances. The pages sit patiently, knowing I might someday breathe new life into their dormant potential.

Life offers no such luxury. We write our story in permanent ink, each moment committed irrevocably to the record. There are no drafts to revisit and no passages to rewrite. The narrative unfolds in real time, with no chance to polish our regrets into something more beautiful in retrospect.

Eleven years ago, my dear friend Ken reviewed my book “Cydonia: Rise of the Fallen.” I read through his review just a few minutes ago and felt that familiar writer’s urge to revise and improve. How fortunate that my written work allows for second editions! Yet this moment illuminated a stark contrast—while my book may see multiple iterations, my life will see just one.

Why, then, do we waste our precious days scrolling aimlessly, ensnared in digital echoes that contribute nothing to the significance of our story? Why spend hours on transient distractions when we could be creating memorable experiences?

For those who believe, as I do, in life after death, there comes a reckoning—not an editing session. Our completed manuscript will be read, not revised. This is not meant to inspire fear but urgency—an invitation to live deliberately, to make each word and day count.

Let us write lives worth reading—stories of impact, kindness, and purpose. Let us make our corners of the world better places, knowing we won’t get the chance to rewrite what we’ve lived, only to live what we’ll be proud to have written.

As always, I’m inundated with work, but I will endeavour to update my website as much as I can. Thank you for reading, my friends, wherever you are.

Much love, always. 🙂

A Name in History

Mar20

Today, I want to share something truly special with you all. Have you ever come across a book that not only transports you to another time and place but also leaves you utterly spellbound? Prepare to add a new favourite to your collection: “A Name in History” by Hillery Baptiste.

This captivating historical fiction is like no other. Set in the heart of London, it follows the journey of Ella, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a seemingly ordinary shell fragment hidden among her late uncle’s belongings. Little does she know, this discovery will lead her on a whirlwind adventure, unravelling family secrets and uncovering a history deeply intertwined with the scars of slavery.

What makes “A Name in History” truly special is its ability to weave together the past and present, taking readers on a poignant journey of self-discovery and resilience. Through Ella’s eyes, we are transported from the vibrant streets of London to the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean as she delves deep into her family’s history, challenging everything she thought she knew about herself.

But this isn’t just any historical fiction novel; it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding our past. History isn’t just about dates and events; it’s about people, their stories, and the legacies they leave behind. “A Name in History” beautifully captures this essence, reminding us of the indomitable spirit of those who came before us and the strength we inherited from our ancestors.

So, this spring, if you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another time and leave you pondering long after turning the last page, look no further than “A Name in History” by Hillery Baptiste. Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on this incredible journey.

Let me quickly add that I know Hillery personally, and I am so blessed to have edited this novel. You can find “A Name in History” at your local bookstore, online retailers or at Arrow Gate Bookstore here. Let’s learn from history and not repeat the mistakes of the past!

Happy spring reading and much love, always! 📚✨

Tales of Five Lies Reimagined

Jan19

I am back in the fray! After a 12-year hiatus, I have decided to start writing again. I have several abandoned manuscripts on the back burner that I’ve neglected, although I love my job of working in a publishing house, reading manuscripts, and discovering new voices. In the process, I have neglected my own voice. And I then realise I can combine both, manage a publishing house, and write whatever I want.

So, here it is. The second edition of my short story turned novella was published last year September by Arrow Gate Publishing. You can order from Amazon or at Arrow Gate’s Bookstore here. You can the book trailer here.

The plot is an explosive, enthralling thriller that peels back the layers of a seemingly perfect life. Christine White is a woman of privilege and beauty, living a life of opulence. Her existence is shattered on a cloudy night when she becomes an unwitting witness to a chilling crime. As she grapples with the horrors she’s witnessed, a ruthless killer remains on the loose, ready to strike again. In this heart-pounding tale, Christine’s quest for truth reveals that her perfect life is built on a foundation of lies. As she navigates a web of secrets and confronts her darkest fears, the ticking clock adds urgency to her mission, but the price of the truth may be too high to bear. If you’re a fan of thrillers and suspense, “Tales of Five Lies” is a must-read.

“Tales of Five Lies” is a gripping narrative woven with suspense, deceit, and a relentless pursuit of answers. The title is available in paperback and ebook formats. I hope you’ll all enjoy reading it.

Wishing you all a happy and relaxing weekend, my friends! 🙂

Love’s Essence from Two Hands

Oct31

My daughter wrote the poem below on my birthday, and she gave me the permission to share it. If only we have love in the world, we will dance on the streets rather than raining bombs on ourselves. Our souls will have dwelled in safety, not fear.

I hope you’ll all enjoy reading the heartfelt love from a daughter to her mother.

Two Hands

Strong and Firm

Cupping and moulding a shape.

Spreading out a piece of Eternity

Your love, more priceless than

Moonbeams, and fickle dreams

And troubles that dissolve

In times steady pace

Providing a sense of security

Two Hands

That cup my face.

Providing an unexplainable

Yet undeniable sense of place

Apparent in shape and constitution, and beauty

Two Hands with concrete

And resolute wisdom

Pointing beyond the Earth’s clouds

To the Author and Finisher of our Faith

Pointing and providing

Undeniable direction and words of gold from your breath

Though my human and

Simultaneous half girlish and half grown.

Nature may blindside those hands.

You wait, arms and hands outstretched.

Hold within those hands

The love that moulded me

The love and the piece that was.

With you, becomes a part of me.

Resolute and strong, beckoning

Me forth with those Two Hands

Two Hands that lead mine to

The right path, advising, adjusting.

And teaching to pursue beyond

This world

In your embrace, my visage is filled with your warmth.

A cover provided, and obstructing the view.

Of deep and embedded scars of effort

And experience within your

Two Hands

And so, with my own Two Hands, connecting.

Extending out from my arms

I trace the scars.

Interlock fingers and once again

We embrace, but from I to you.

I love you ❤

As I read the poem again, my heart flush with pride and love for my daughter but it was quickly dampened by the wars raging around us. As the world rabbles with overwhelming hatred, I pray and hope we’ll find a way to truly love each other, eschew war, and our world will prosper.

Thanks for reading dear friends and please, stay safe, wherever you are in the world.

Much love, always! 🙂

Peace in a Cruel World

Oct6

We live in a world often marred by conflict, disease, and negativity, finding peace can seem like an elusive dream. So, how do we find peace in such a cacophony of negative events? How do we keep ourselves grounded? I’ve decided to do five things:

Limit News Consumption: While staying informed is essential, constant exposure to negative news can be overwhelming. I have decided two set boundaries on my news consumption to prevent information overload.

Positive Meditation: I am a Christian, and I realise the more I read God’s Word, the calmer and peaceful I am. This world is full of negative things but the more we read, and pray and focus on positive things, the more we’ll have power over negative thoughts and influences. One of my favourite scripture quote is below:

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
Philippians 4:8

If I want to make myself sad, I’ll just dwell on the things that I think are not working in my life, or think of a past traumatic event. But when I realise I don’t have control over certain things, but I have control on my reactions. So, I do what I do best: pray and trust God to do what only He can do.

Be Kind: Kindness doesn’t take anything from us, rather, it makes us better people. I treat people the way I want to be treated, with kindness and empathy, and by doing that, I realise I am peaceful and can navigate through this cruel, complex world. I love the quote below:

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Help Others: Volunteering or helping those in need can be immensely fulfilling. Acts of kindness not only benefit others but also bring a sense of purpose and inner peace. When I help people, I forget about my problems and in a strange way, God always resolves them when I least expected.

Focus on Self-Care: I prioritise self-care activities such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. Taking care of my physical and mental health is crucial for maintaining peace. Taking care of ourselves is crucial, a sick person can’t take care of others. So practise self-love.

There are several ways we can find peace in this chaotic, tumultuous world of ours, but practising the above has helped me, even when faced with circumstances beyond my control.

I wrote this article on Friday, and woke up on Saturday to news of Hamas attacking Israel. I pray for peace in our world.

Take care of yourselves wherever you are in the world.

Much love, always! 🙂

There is a Place…

Aug2

West Sands Beach, St Andrews, Scotland

I’ve been away for a while, taking a break to Scotland with my family and we had a marvellous time. The beautiful landscape of rolling hills, canopy trees, and luscious vegetation took my breath away. Scottish people are renowned for their welcoming and friendly nature. Strangers will see you in the street and smile and wave. You don’t get that reaction in ‘high octane’ London. I’ve spent most of my adult life in London, and I consider myself a Londoner first and British second. I love the city, but Scotland is now a huge contender – the fresh air, those stunning natural views, and I’m seriously considering moving up north.

There is a place called LadyBank in Fife, Scotland where we spent amazing days in a rented apartment. The only mistake we made was not booking longer. It’s important to rest and rewind before going back to the fray. And I hope anyone reading this will find the time to relax and rest. Below are some pictures I took.

St Andrews, Scotland. I love stone houses!☺️

Queensferry Crossing Bridge, Scotland

I took almost a hundred images and several videos, which I’ll probably upload later. So wherever you are in the world, be kind, be well and be good!

Much love, always!☺️

Examining Marga Jann’s “The Architect: Four Countries Four Faces” and its Exploration of Prayer and Spiritual Warfare.

Jul19

In the gripping semi-autobiographical novel, “The Architect: Four Countries Four Faces,” Marga Jann, a talented architect and professor, takes readers on an extraordinary journey that combines the realms of international intrigue, intense spiritual warfare, and the power of prayer. Jann’s unique blend of personal experiences, contemporary socio-cultural insights, and geopolitical dynamics create a thought-provoking narrative that unveils the hidden battles that surround us, both in the physical and spiritual realms.

A Multifaceted Perspective:

As an accomplished author, artist, parent, and professor, Marga Jann brings a wealth of knowledge and a diverse set of skills to her semi-autobiographical novel. Drawing from her expertise as a licensed architect and chair of Architectural Engineering at The American University of Kurdistan, Jann paints a vivid picture of the academic world and seamlessly weaves it into a dangerous and diplomatically-sensitive battle between intelligence operatives from MI6, CIA, and Saudi Intelligence.

The Power of Prayer:

One of the central themes of “The Architect: Four Countries Four Faces” is the transformative power of prayer. Jann skilfully illustrates how prayer becomes a powerful tool in the protagonist’s journey to expose and conquer the workings of darkness. Through her personal experiences, Marga Jann emphasises the importance of spiritual awareness and the ability to discern the interconnected real and spiritual wars that surround us, even in seemingly random everyday battles.

Geopolitical Insights:

Beyond the enthralling narrative, Marga Jann delivers important contemporary socio-cultural and geopolitical insights that are often overlooked by mainstream media. Jann’s experiences as a Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge lend authenticity to the geopolitical dynamics portrayed in the novel. By intertwining the intricate threads of international intrigue, she provides readers with a deeper understanding of the complex forces at play in our interconnected world.

Unconventional Storytelling:

“The Architect: Four Countries Four Faces” stands out for its unconventional storytelling style. Jann’s approach, which combines a quartet of academic assignments with intense spiritual warfare, creates a seat-gripping and thought-provoking reading experience. This blending of elements from academia, espionage, and the spiritual realm challenges readers to explore the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate aspects of life.

Marga Jann’s “The Architect: Four Countries Four Faces” is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that skilfully combines personal experiences, academic insights, and spiritual warfare. Through her multifaceted perspective as an architect, professor, and parent, Jann explores the transformative power of prayer and sheds light on the hidden battles that surround us. This engrossing semi-autobiographical narrative not only captivates readers with its intrigue but also encourages them to reflect on the broader socio-cultural and geopolitical dimensions of our world. “The Architect: Four Countries Four Faces” is a must-read for those seeking a unique blend of entertainment, spiritual enlightenment, and geopolitical awareness.

I had a wonderful time editing and working on this incredible book, which boasts a concise 190 pages, making it a perfect quick read that can easily fit snugly into your luggage if you’re heading on a holiday.

“The Architect” is available worldwide, wherever books are sold.

Much love, always! 🙂

Uncover the Gripping Tale of Love, Trust, and Sacrifice in “Pictures of Anna”

Jun27

In the midst of the cruel and tumultuous era of war, there are stories that transcend the boundaries of time and place, touching the depths of human emotions. “Pictures of Anna” is one such captivating tale that weaves together themes of love, trust, and sacrifice against the backdrop of the horrors of war.

This captivating tale will transport you to a bygone era of war and unveil the profound human emotions that transcend time and place. “Pictures of Anna,” written by Sam Martin, an award-winning British author living in Germany, is a spellbinding tale that cleverly blends the themes of love, trust, and sacrifice with the brutal backdrop of war.

In a quaint old Norman church, under the golden rays of the late morning sun, a young bride named Anna anxiously awaits her groom. Her journey is one of escape, a desperate flight from the horrors of her past as a German of Roma origin during the dark days of 1930s Germany. London becomes her sanctuary, promising a new life free from the terrors that haunted her.

Sam Martin unfolds a powerful narrative, revealing a tapestry of emotions that resonate with readers. Through his gritty prose, Martin paints a sensitive portrait of Anna’s life, entwined with hope and heartbreak, love and hate, anger and confusion. The story becomes a poignant exploration of blind prejudice, intolerance, and redemption.

Martin skilfully brings to life the claustrophobic and tense atmosphere of the home front. He delves into the prevailing opinions of the time and illuminates the seismic decisions made by those in positions of power. In doing so, he creates a well-rounded view of the era, shedding light on the struggles and sacrifices of everyday people caught in the turmoil of war.

Anna’s journey resonates deeply with (me) readers, reminding us of the indomitable human spirit. Her story serves as a stark reminder that the effects of war extend far beyond the battlefields, impacting lives in profound ways. It challenges us to confront our prejudices as we witness the consequences of blind hatred and the power of love to overcome adversity. The fate of Anna is an unfortunate reflection of many lives still facing prejudice while searching for safety from war.

As you delve into the pages of this remarkable novel, you will be transported to a world where the past collides with the present, where Anna’s story becomes a universal tale of triumph over adversity. Through its pages, we are invited to witness history through the eyes of those who lived it and to cherish the freedoms we enjoy today.

I enjoyed reading and editing this story of hope, heartbreak, and redemption. The lady who inspired the author, Sam Martin, is still alive, and through her story, we gain a deeper understanding of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope to guide us through the darkest times.

Pictures of Anna is available wherever books are sold, and can also be purchased directly from the publisher here: https://arrowgatepublishing.com/store/

Dreams and Realities

Jun19

Unveiling the Mysterious Tale of Hugo Swann: Dreams That Haunt and Reality That Terrifies.

In this gripping mystery written by C.D. Fox, the author presents a haunting tale of suspense set against the backdrop of Oxford University. This gripping thriller plunges readers into the unsettling journey of Hugo Swann, the son of a renowned psychiatrist, a shy and introverted student struggling to find his place in an unfamiliar environment. Hugo’s life takes an unexpected turn when he finds love and delves into uncharted territories, only to be besieged by a relentless string of unsettling dreams that threaten his sanity.

Hugo grapples with his own inner demons while seeking solace in the arms of a new girlfriend, Alice and embracing new experiences. However, as his dreams intensify, Hugo’s path intersects with a mysterious woman, haunted by a troubled past, who seeks psychiatric treatment from his own father.

Little does Hugo know that this encounter will plunge him deeper into a nightmarish abyss. As the veil between dreams and reality becomes increasingly blurred, Hugo finds himself in desperate need of psychiatric assessment, unable to distinguish between the sinister occurrences plaguing his sleep and the waking world. In a race against time, Alice embarks on a heart-pounding quest to uncover the truth. But as she unravels the mysteries surrounding Hugo’s plight, she discovers a shocking truth. Will Hugo be willing to confront the terrifying reality that awaits him?

“Dreams” is a masterful blend of mystery, thriller, and suspense that will captivate readers from the first page to the last. C.D. Fox weaves a spellbinding narrative, delving deep into the darkest recesses of the human mind, leaving readers spellbound and questioning the limits of perception.

Prepare yourself for a mind-bending exploration of the human psyche, where dreams become nightmarish traps, and reality holds unimaginable horrors. With every twist and turn, the tension mounts, and the race to unveil the truth becomes an urgent and relentless pursuit.

I enjoyed editing this novel and readers are indeed in for a ride. The novel is available wherever books are sold.