The Midnight Falcon

The Midnight Falcon

Graham Saunders

Nonfiction / Plays / Theatre

An emotional and dangerous journey across Europe as the characters reach to discover their destinies. Colby Linden, burdened with a troubled past, is in search of atonement. Beautiful, seductive Valentina Gussev a woman he knew well, offers him an opportunity. But there is much he does not know about his mission to return a Queen to Sachovia.Sachovia is an Eastern European state newly emerging from its communist past and a recent destructive civil war. A populist call goes up to re-instate the old Monarchy. This does not please the parliamentary opposition and plots are put in place to ensure that a monarchy will never emerge again. Since the assassination of her elder brother, there is only one remaining link to the old monarchy – Natasha Kashinka. She is a child, an orphan and has no desire to leave France, the land of her birth to be taken to a war ravaged country she does not know. But forces greater than she can resist have taken hold of her future. In London, Colby Linden once a high flying close protection officer for Equis Security, has been sidelined after a botched rescue attempt involving the tragic death of a young boy. The boy's death still weighs heavily on Colby's shoulders and he has sunk to a position of obscurity in the depths of Equis security. When an opportunity to redeem himself by covertly escorting young Natasha to Sachovia, he finds himself uncertain that he still has what it takes.Valentina Gussev, an agent of the Sachovian Security Bureau, uses the past she shared with Colby to convince him to accept the commission. They set out together aboard her ketch – The Midnight Falcon to the tiny Greek island of Ikinos where Natasha has been kept secure in the care of young Katrina and Captain Kowalski. The old feelings between Valentina and Colby emerge again but something in Valentina's behaviour suggests that all is not well. The three of them sail to the Croatian city of Dubrovnik and from there, keeping a low profile Colby and Natasha travel north by motorcycle to Trieste where further instructions await them.Valentina returns to Ikinos to tidy up lose ends and finds that Katrina has been abandoned by Kowalski. They leave Ikinos together and it is revealed that Valentina is a double agent working towards the demise of Natasha. Her motivation which has come close to destroying her is blackmail. She believes that her brother Sascha is being held captive on pain of death unless she abandons her conscience and cooperates with the anti-monarchists. The unimaginable happens when Natasha is kidnapped from under Colby's nose in Italy. A ransom is demanded of Boris Koch the Prime Minister of Sachovia for her return. He believes that Valentina is still loyal to his cause and instructs her to sail her ketch to a rendezvous where Natasha will be recovered in exchange for the ransom. It is revealed that Captain Kowalski is one of the kidnappers.Valentina confesses to Colby what she has done, the ultimate betrayal of the ones she loves. Colby is left bewildered and outraged.Before Natasha is safely recovered it seems that she and Kowalski are shot dead. Valentina calls Boris Koch and tells him that Natasha is dead. She admits her guilt to him. Boris, driven by vengeance, sends an Assassin after Valentina. Unrest is fermenting again in Sachovia and it looks as if another civil war is about to break out.Valentina convinces Colby to meet Natasha and take her to London until she can make permanent arrangements for the child's welfare.Katrina finds refuge on the Channel Island of Guernsey in a cottage owned by Valentina. She meets a boy and a romance develops. Valentina sails her boat to Guernsey but the assassin is on her tail. After an encounter the assassin is left dead and the Midnight Falcon sunk.Sachovia finally collapses into war again and Boris Koch faces his end with dignity, his hopes dashed.Valentina sinks into a depression which is lifted when she is finally reunited with Natasha and Colby. There is forgiveness and the hope of a happy future for the three of them on Guernsey.
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Feather in His Cap

Feather in His Cap

Keith Gapinski

Keith Gapinski

Myram Scribewell, itinerant playwright, tumbles out the door of the local inn and into the path of Anni, a priestess of the local fire god out to save the town from a grumbling volcano.Avery Wilson is a twenty year-old hitman who has been in the business since the age of sixteen, when his parents were murdered. He adapted quickly, following every teaching of his mentor, Lucas, the man who took him in after he lost his parents. After the first few jitters, Avery became used to the feeling of pulling the trigger. He was confident in his job, and jumped at any opportunity to prove himself and to back up his title of being the youngest hitman in the business. This all changed when he was given the profile of a young, fifteen-year old Brynn Laurens. Bryan's downfall, meant to be carried out by Avery, was to be fast, simple, and with little aftermath. Then Avery learned of the reason for the call to get rid of Brynn. The boy's father had made multiple enemies through his business' connections, leading a mystery calling to order in a hit on the man's son. Avery makes the active decision to go undercover and befriend this boy, make sure he does everything in his power to keep him alive. He must fight the instincts drilled into him and keep Brynn from falling victim for a crime he is unknowingly taking the blame for.
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Imprints

Imprints

C.A. Masterson

Fiction / Paranormal / Science Fiction

Literary short story.Len tries to run from his past, but it keeps catching up to him.Three scientists have discovered a theory that could possibly unify all forces, much as Einstein had wanted to do.They put their theory to the test and create aportal called a "Convolution," which opens them to pocket universes where reality takes on as many forms as there are concepts of it.Richard, the first one to explore the Convolution, barely makes it back alive from his first foray into the unknown. Soon afterwards Richard, his girlfriend, Nancy and the Professor, his mentor and best friend find themselves thrust into a scenario where they could quite possibly have triggered the end of our world.This is a Serial Novel, a series of six episodes that unfolds to a conclusion through cliff hanger endings, much in the vein of the old Republic Serials like Flash Gordon, Batman, Superman and many other golden tales of early Hollywood. On the edge of your seat, nail biting action that just doesn't quit!
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Perihelion, Episode One: The Convolution

Perihelion, Episode One: The Convolution

John Pirillo

Short Stories / Science Fiction

Three scientists open up a doorway to pocket universes for exploration, but also start what could be the beginning of the end for all life.The first of a six episode Serial Novel. 16 pagesThree scientists have discovered a theory that could possibly unify all forces, much as Einstein had wanted to do.They put their theory to the test and create aportal called a "Convolution," which opens them to pocket universes where reality takes on as many forms as there are concepts of it.Richard, the first one to explore the Convolution, barely makes it back alive from his first foray into the unknown. Soon afterwards Richard, his girlfriend, Nancy and the Professor, his mentor and best friend find themselves thrust into a scenario where they could quite possibly have triggered the end of our world.This is a Serial Novel, a series of six episodes that unfolds to a conclusion through cliff hanger endings, much in the vein of the old Republic Serials like Flash Gordon, Batman, Superman and many other golden tales of early Hollywood. On the edge of your seat, nail biting action that just doesn't quit!
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Time Swirl A Binky Adventure

Time Swirl A Binky Adventure

John Pirillo

Short Stories / Science Fiction

Binky, a sentient bionic doglike being, is in search of friends when he meets Merlin the Magician and a young King Arthur. Follow him on this fantastic exploration of friendship and magic and meet the first Lord When.Before Binky became Lord When's trusted companion, he was the best friend of another well known genius...Merlin the Magician. A Merlin who was both wise and kind. A man who won Binky's heart and soul, if not his AI implanted electronic, bionic body.Come back in time to join with Binky as he lives through a golden age of man when there were Knights of the Round Table, and a young man whose future decreed that he one day rule all of Britain with a firm, but fair hand and bring the Light into the lands that were darkened by the hordes of Druids and ravagers of those times.See how Binky helps and launches the career of a new Lord When, who will one day scour time and space to help those in need of his services.Learn what Mordred and Morgana truly were like during those tumultous times, and what their parts in the grand play of King Arthur's life were.Then..Time Swirl on your first adventure with Lord When!
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Forks

Forks

A.E. Davis

Young Adult / Horror

"Welcome back to the magic of Forks!" A Forks local takes readers back to the familiar setting of Twilight, but with the unexpected pleasure of new and mysterious visitors.Age Level: 11 and up | Grade Level: 6 and upA unique and re-imagined take on a favorite. Same setting, different characters, and story."I like how she connected the movie to the book and still you are like: what is this place." 5 stars"It's like visiting with old friends, but you have the unexpected pleasure of new and mysterious visitors." 5 stars"This book is AMAZING!" 5 stars"Now I really do want to move to Forks!" 5 stars"I wish they'd make this a television series!" 5 stars
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Jake Bowers Versus The Firebird

Jake Bowers Versus The Firebird

Laryssa Waldron

Laryssa Waldron

While other kids ride their bikes, Jake is learning to fly on a carpet. They're playing video games, he's being hunted by cyborg-scorpions. They face popularity contests, he is in a face-off with a Firebird. But Jake is not alone. Other kids at Hale Junior High are finding that the world is quite unusual. They must work together to save Jake's Uncle and search history to uncover their futures.“You know the stories that your ancestors tell, about supernatural-type abilities? These powers are manifesting themselves in their descendants.” Twelve-year-old Jake Bowers is severely frustrated when he finds out that his favorite uncle, the one man that has the ability to help him learn to "fit-in" at Junior High, is being deployed thousands of miles away to the US Army's conflict in Kazhiristan. Things look up though when a stranger gives him an ancient carpet that can fly. Jake is introduced into a world in which legends are reality. A world in which Jake can communicate with a rug, dreaming of future events is commonplace, and becoming invisible is a fun way to pass the time. Life in Junior High just got amazing - until strange cyborg-scorpions begin to follow him, and Uncle Mark gets kidnapped by the supposed owner of his carpet. Jake and his friends employ the help of other carpet riders, riders who are really upset that Jake has the ability to fly. The kids have to learn to work together as they attempt a daring rescue mission, and Jake tries to prove to everyone why he, of all people, is destined to be the Rider of the Carpet of Legend. See what parents are saying about Jake Bowers Versus the Firebird - "This is one of those rare books that has appeal for boys, girls, and adults. There is a little bit of everything--suspense, adventure,history, and humor. My 11-yr. old son and I both loved it!" Cydnee F. "What was amazing about this book is that we read it as a family. We have five kids, (ranging from ages 7-18) and they were all mesmerized by the book as we read it, and they all loved it. That's unusual!" Chris C. "It's nice to see my son reading again, and now he's picking up other books!" Barbara R.
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The Curse of The House on Cypress Lane: Book 0- The Beginning

The Curse of The House on Cypress Lane: Book 0- The Beginning

James Hunt

Mystery

Small town life in Ocoee, Louisiana has its charms. Good food. Friendly neighbors. Quiet nights. For the Cooley family, it’s the perfect place to start over. And while the food is delicious and most of the residents amiable, the nights are anything but quiet. Because the house on Cypress Lane has a secret, and tonight the Cooley family will discover the darker side of small town life.Part One of the Dark Waters Fantasy SeriesFinn is a simple priest living a life of solitude in the Temple until the night his dying father sends for him. Finn learns that, not only does he have a half-sister, but that she is a captive in the Vaults – a prison reserved for the most heinous criminals. Vowing to save her he enlists the services of the scoundrel pirate, Egan Wey. Together they set off to commit treason. But their adventure only starts with a rescue. Across the ocean a plague is coming, dead men are walking and blood is like gold. Someone is behind this, but can they find out who in time…This epic fantasy adventure is pulsing with adrenaline and dark humour, with swashbuckling pirates, raging zombies and copious bottles of rum…
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Refuge: Tales from a Zombie Apocalypse

Refuge: Tales from a Zombie Apocalypse

Anthea Strezze

Horror / Zombies

If the dead started to rise and attack the living, would you go running around with a shotgun, blowing off undead heads? Or would you just try to get on with life, as best you can?Refuge: Tales from a Zombie Apocalypse collects seven short stories about normal people living in extraordinary times - without the action-movie clichés. 23,825 wordsBLOGS‘I can honestly say that I am the most laziest person you could ever find. I never attempted to do anything meticulous, nor muster the energy to get something done.’CURSES OF TIME‘The idea was to write something that had a fresh take on what people knew to be Time Travel. It came to me after one scrapped idea to another and then through numerous rewrites and changes in the overall plot.’CONTINUMENTAL‘To create such an extensive universe of brave new marvels and wonders, it would not be the same without its own form of intrinsic qualities ... its own identity.’PRIME WORLDS‘From Earth to Anselopha, an Alliance between the Prime Worlds were formed to enforce Law and Order. Bureaus were put in place to aid each of the worlds of the Continuverse.’MATTER-FABRIC‘With its nature laid bare, ready to be taken unwillingly by force without Bearers. Time will not last forever and with no hope of guidance, time’s endangered nature will come to an end.’OF THINGS TO COME‘In the light of the coming Master, there are those who will stop at nothing to ensure that he is taken down, so that they can command their own rule – Who will take the Seat?’
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101 Blogs

101 Blogs

Khorum Ahmed

Khorum Ahmed

101 blogs written from March 29th 2011 (from www.khorumahmed.com), including: BLOGS, CURSES OF TIME, CONTINUMENTAL, PRIME WORLDS, MATTER-FABRIC and OF THINGS TO COME.Hints of plots to come, adventures to witness and journeys to unfold all in the wake of the next Master of Time. Who will take the seat?BLOGS‘I can honestly say that I am the most laziest person you could ever find. I never attempted to do anything meticulous, nor muster the energy to get something done.’CURSES OF TIME‘The idea was to write something that had a fresh take on what people knew to be Time Travel. It came to me after one scrapped idea to another and then through numerous rewrites and changes in the overall plot.’CONTINUMENTAL‘To create such an extensive universe of brave new marvels and wonders, it would not be the same without its own form of intrinsic qualities ... its own identity.’PRIME WORLDS‘From Earth to Anselopha, an Alliance between the Prime Worlds were formed to enforce Law and Order. Bureaus were put in place to aid each of the worlds of the Continuverse.’MATTER-FABRIC‘With its nature laid bare, ready to be taken unwillingly by force without Bearers. Time will not last forever and with no hope of guidance, time’s endangered nature will come to an end.’OF THINGS TO COME‘In the light of the coming Master, there are those who will stop at nothing to ensure that he is taken down, so that they can command their own rule – Who will take the Seat?’
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The Enemy's Revenge, Book One: Ghost Sightings

The Enemy's Revenge, Book One: Ghost Sightings

Mark Mulle

Childrens

Notch, James and Pauline have settled back into their quiet lives. But when Pauline hears a rumor of someone seeing a spirit like Herobrine, the group heads towards a village by the sea to find out more. What they find begins a brand new adventure which takes them from a small village to a volcano and into the Nether. What is Herobrine going to do this time and can they stop him in time?(An Unofficial Minecraft Book for Kids Ages 9 - 12 (Preteen)Notch, James and Pauline have settled back into their quiet lives after defeating the evil Herobrine. But when Pauline hears a rumor of someone seeing a spirit like Herobrine, the group heads towards a village by the sea to find out more. What they find begins a brand new adventure which takes them from a small village to a volcano and into the Nether. What is Herobrine going to do this time and can they stop him in time?This unofficial Minecraft book is not authorized, endorsed or sponsored by Microsoft Corp., Mojang AB, Notch Development AB or any other person or entity owning or controlling the rights of the Minecraft name, trademark or copyrights. All characters, names, places and other aspects of the game described herein are trademarked and owned by their respective owners. Minecraft®/ /TM & ©2009-2016 Mojang/Notch.
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An Unlikely Angel - Tales From The Backwoods, Story #3

An Unlikely Angel - Tales From The Backwoods, Story #3

Backwoods

Fiction / Suspense / Thriller

Taking a break from the chilling, suspenseful stories that the 'Tales From The Backwoods' typically offer, 'An Unlikely Angel' is well suited for all ages and remains one of my all-time favorites. I hope that you take the time to indulge in this short read. I am sure you will enjoy. Thank you kindly. ~Backwoods~Taking a break from the chilling, suspenseful stories that the 'Tales From The Backwoods' typically offer, 'An Unlikely Angel' is well suited for all ages and remains one of my all-time favorites. The story takes place during the childhood of Ethan Wolfe, a favorite character from my 'Off Grid' series. I hope that you take the time to indulge in this short read. I am sure you will enjoy. Thank you kindly. ~Backwoods~
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A Warrior's Survival (A Short Story for kids)

A Warrior's Survival (A Short Story for kids)

Rita Hestand

Romance

Joe Daniel Baker was a computer geek. Despite the fact that his father tried to train him about living in the wilds of British Columbia. When Joe's house burns down while his mother and sister are gone, and his father on a business trip, Joe must figure out how to survive.Joe Daniel's father had given him a computer when he was eight. Now at eleven he was a gaming expert. It was his life, since his father began traveling in his business and his mother and sister always hung out together. When the house catches fire, while everyone is gone but Joe Daniel, he awakes for find himself in great peril. His leg is injured and he has to figure out how to survive until his parents arrive.Joe Daniel quickly puts his computer experts to work for him.
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I Scream for Halloween

I Scream for Halloween

Robert C. Waggoner

Robert C. Waggoner

Blurb HalloweenHalloween is special for all kids and adults who still have a little kid left in them. I’m knocking on the door of seven decades of enjoying Halloween. I lived in a small town where a haunted house sat waiting for a foolish person to enter. I never did. I’m smarter than that; are you?This new edition of a classic story contains Charles Sheldon's original writing, with some passages sensitively abridged to allow his powerful story to come through for modern readers. Nothing in the storyline has been changed.A homeless man staggers into a wealthy church and upsets the congregation. A week later he is dead. This causes the Rev. Henry Maxwell to issue a startling challenge to his congregation and to himself -- whatever you do in life over the next twelve months, ask yourself this question before making any decision: "What would Jesus do?"The local newspaper editor, a novelist, a wealthy young woman who has inherited a million dollars, her friend who has been offered a professional singing career, the superintendent of the railroad workshops, a leading city merchant and others take up the challenge. But how will it all work out when things don't go as expected?A bishop gives up his comfortable lifestyle -- and finds his life threatened in the city slums. The story is timeless. A great read, and a challenge to every Christian today.Abridged by Chris Wright. Chris is the author of over thirty books, starting with young fiction for an English Christian publisher in 1966. He has written both fiction and non-fiction, mostly with a Christian theme, for a variety of publishers. Chris is married with three grownup children, and lives in the West Country of England where he is a home group leader with his local church. His website is: www.rocky-island.com.
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