The Rewrite

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! 📚✨

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.