Book Review of In the shadow of the Sphinx

Book Blurb:

In the shadow of the Sphinx is the story of two mature adults who outwardly appear to be happy in their married lives but seek forbidden love.

Serena’s chance encounter in Delhi airport with an enigmatic stranger continues as fate conspires to throw her in Samarthya’s path. Both of them are going to Egypt—she is in a journey of self-discovery and trying to save a marriage that is falling apart, and he on a business trip, holding on to a relationship with his wife that is emotionally dead yet convenient because that allows him the freedom to seek physical love without any emotional encumbrances.

Would Serena find the courage to liberate herself from the broken marriage and seek forbidden love?

Would Samarthya go back to his normal no-string-attached, hectic life as head of a news agency or give another shot in his life?

Are Serena and Samarthya meant for each other?

My Thoughts:

The story line revolves around the two protagonists of the story Samarthya and Serena. The plot is well staged in Egypt and you may use the book as a guide if you are planning to visit Egypt in near future. The story in the beginning is interesting and you will love the narration of the story. 

Everything falls in place and it seems as if the world has conspired for a love to begin in the hearts of the protagonists. Now the story begins to be a bit monotonous without much suspense and you can predict what would happen next between the love birds. Probably you can skip a few pages. The story unfolds the lives of the protagonists in the latter half. The latter half will make you think about how life can change in a blink of an eye and how things can change in an instant.

What will the story unfold in the latter half of the book and will the love birds find their true love?

You need to buy the book to find out that. Happy reading!

In Conversation with Dr. Linda Coff

AUTHOR/REVEREND DR. LINDA DE COFF

On DIVINE ROMANCE & PERFECT PARTNERSHIP ~ The Immortal Principles and Powers of Divine Love!

About the book:

In this stunning book on the incomparable powers and joys of Divine Romance & Perfect Relationship Dr. Linda offers enlightening keys on how to prepare for, recognize and attract your perfect eternal mate and how to sustain your relationship forever.

Whether individual or couple, learn not only how to constantly renew all your relationships spanning the wide circumference of your life, but to lift all in your world to the Highest level, and experience greater fulfillment, bliss and attainment than ever before.

Ultimate Laws of Attraction, Affinity and the All Powers of Unconditional Love are revealed, for ~ there is no doubt that the greatest mantra for Divine Relationship exists in the Timeless and Immortal words ~

"Where there are two or more gathered in my name, there I am!"

Discover the Sublime Qualities that Exist and Flow between Partners, whose Relationships are Exalted, Harmonized and Perfected in Divine Purpose and Love. Learn how to make these treasured values your very own.

Reverend Linda speaks about the Heavenly Possibilities always existing for us in all our relationships, spanning all areas of life. As we release old, worn-out forms and move into a Spiritualization of Relationships of All Kinds ~ With Particular Emphasis on Soul-Mates and the Exquisite Cosmic Potential of Right Now Fulfillment in Your Life !

Rejoice in the Perfect Principles of Divine Love in you, and the exalted power of Love to manifest all that is perfect and right for your Eternal Advancement into the many Mansions of Splendor, right here on earth and Forever.

Author Interview:

1. What inspired you to write the book?

I realized people needed to know the great power they have to establish magnificent relationships in their life, by centering in the Highest Principles of Divine and Universal Love. People sense this unlimited potential, existent within themselves, or no one would even ever try to achieve fulfilling relationships, whether personal or in their everyday life of connections, but need to know how to implement in very meaningful ways.  So much needless suffering can be avoided and so much build-up of negative patterns can be so easily overcome, if one has the earnest desire and is open to transcend the past and change.

2. When did you realise that you want to write a book?

When we entered the millennium year 2000, I asked myself what do people really need to know, so that civilization can move forward into greater realization and livingness?  It was then that a series of books, entitled Global Divine Consciousness came to me, which would highlight ways and means for the incorporation of  Higher spiritual consciousness into every phase of life, covering every aspect of the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual level, and including everyday issues regarding healing of relationships, the physical body and body of outer conditions, Laws of Abundance, Instantaneous Manifestation and Supply.  By including the greater aspects of the Divine Soul within, each could become free to create their new world of Grace, Liberty, and Spiritual Independence, and realize the Divine potential within.

3. Who helped you in writing the book and please say about their contributions?

Life itself, and working with so many persons, throughout my time as a minister, teacher, and speaker on Universal Laws and Principles, witnessing the mighty transformations and successful demonstrations of heartfelt desires that each can achieve.  I only desire to speak purest Truth, and only speak of what I know to be eternally so, from implementing in my own life.  I came into this life loving Truth, and knowing there is a way for each and all to heal and experience the good that a loving God wants for them.  And, I do believe in permanent healing, that people can absolutely rise out completely, to experience the best life, the miraculous life, right in this life, no matter how long an issue may have gone on.

I am eternally grateful to my own great teachers who taught me the joyous Truth, sparking the fire in me, teaching me Universal Laws and Principles, and everything evolved from there.  These are Dr. Robert Bitzer, (A noted founder of Religious Science International),  Lester Levenson, (Founder of Mind Freedom), and the many timeless teachings of both ancient Eastern and Western philosophy.

4. How is your book going to inspire the readers?

It will help them to realize the power of choice that each one has ~ to get free and to demonstrate the best possible for themselves, or to repeat the old patterns.  This book offers many practical ways and means, whereby the reader can transform…very easy, yet very, very potent.  Readers will find themselves being illumined even as they read.  Glorious meditations, transformational exercises, and empowering examples are found throughout, so that the reader flows right along, ever increasing in awareness and Divine Love.  It is very important to me that readers not only receive the vision of Divine and unlimited possibility for themselves, but also have the tools to get there, in any time of need.  For what good is Truth without a way to implement?

5. If you are given the chance to change one thing in your book what would it be?

I would include even more examples of individuals and couples who have made amazing changes, and the many awesome ways God has bringing love into our lives.  Throughout, my many years of involvement with teaching and healing, I have been blessed to work with many persons in the realm of healing relationships, and every time, I have found that by centering in the Truth of being, block-busting changes have occurred.  Nothing makes me happier that knowing an individual has gotten free and now is experiencing the joyful life they have always been entitled to. I will likely add unto this book some more glowing examples, but, even now ~ there are plenty for the reader to really relate to. 

6. How do you find time to write and which part of the day is best for writing for you?

I consciously make the time, and begin shortly after waking, when thoughts start flowing.  Once focused in and once inspiration starts flowing, I will write all day long, if schedule allows.  I continue this process, during the whole time of working on the book ~ as intense quiet and concentration, and continuity works best for me.

7. Which books have inspired you the most, in the journey of writing this book?

I do mention three works that, in my view, had a powerful element of Truth I thought it essential for people to know.  One is by Nathaniel Brandon, “The Psychology of Romantic Love” ~ on the need for “visibility” and “cherishing” in relationships.  I mention Fulton Sheen’s work on “Life is Worth Living”, where he speaks of the power of Love to raise the human to the Divine, and how “Love of the Higher” exalts the human, whilst love of the lower degrades.  We become what we Love. I also mention author, Gladys Jones who wrote on the Greek Love Mysteries and the mythological, metaphysical import of Venus and Psyche.

8. What is the best advice, you would give for writers who are trying to      write a book?

Write about what you love and have greatest interest in.  Focus in, asking yourself what do you want to say to others?  What do you want the impact to be? What will be your intention with this book? What is the effect on your readers that you want your book to have?  What is the special gift of insight, story-telling, way of communicating (there are no duplicates and you are unique), point of view that you have? As you concentrate on these questions, the format and “the way” will just unfold in you.  Ask for Divine Guidance and Inspiration every step of the way, be open to influx, and act on it as it comes.

9. What are your hobbies?

Swimming, movies, walking, constant meditation on the wondrous Truth (a life path, not a hobby) and hiking in nature.

10. What can we expect from you in the future?

There will be at least 2 more major books of the Global Divine Consciousness Series that I am focused on making available this year.  These are “Immortality Now and Forever ~ How To Live Forever in Your Divine Body of Light” (on physical healing and extending life indefinitely), and “Mysticism and Healing ~ The Perfect Principles and Patterns of God” (Perfect Healing through pure God thought alone).  I am striving to get out these major titles, so that no matter what department of life persons may want to heal, they will have every tool necessary to transcend successfully in this life and now, bringing joy and fulfilment.  Where once there was pain and frustration, chronic patterns, the endless round of the karmic wheel, they now breathe the breath of Divine Light and Love in them, and will be able to rise out, manifesting successfully, by consciously re-uniting with the glorious and unlimited power of the Divine Self within, establishing a new trajectory of Higher Cause and Effect, freeing forever from the chains that bind.  Love is the Key.  Understanding the Laws and Principles of the Universe is the way.

By Reverend Dr. Linda De Coff

Author/DIVINE ROMANCE & PERFECT PARTNERSHIP ~ The Immortal Principles and Powers of Divine Love!

About the Author:

The Reverend Dr. Linda De Coff is the noted founder of New Thought International, Inc. and New Thought Institute of New York (An Association of Global Centers for World Peace & Enlightenment). She is also the celebrated author of BRIDGE OF THE GODS, LIVING THE MIRACLE CONSCIOUSNESS, SONGS OF ETERNITY ~ Contemplations, Treatments & Meditations on the Word of God, DIVINE ROMANCE & PERFECT PARTNERSHIP, & DIVINE PROSPERITY ~ Twelve Steps to Your Perfect Consciousness of Infinite & Eternal Supply! In all the books comprising her Global Divine Consciousness Series, Dr. Linda touches upon every aspect of the human condition with astonishing clarity and luminosity, providing enlightening keys for the reader on how to raise yourself every day in every way to become the Divine Plan fulfilled. It has been said of her glowing works ~ "You cannot be the same on the other side of these reads."

Author Website: Rev. Linda De Coff

In Conversation with Sarah Elle Emm

In Conversation with the author of Last Vacation

1. What inspired you to write the book?

I grew up visiting the island of St. Croix and later lived there as an adult. I always thought it would be the perfect setting for a fiction novel. Although I was writing young-adult fantasy books, I love reading suspense novels, and eventually I had time to write one and decided to finally use St. Croix as a location.

2. When did you realise that you want to write a book?

I think I was about seven-years-old when I first realized I wanted to write a book. I’ve been dreaming about being a writer since then. No matter how I tried to ignore the urge to write because I didn’t think I was good enough to write fiction, this feeling just kept nagging at me. I am so glad I finally broke down and started writing.

3. Who helped you in writing the book and please say about their contributions?

I wrote the book alone and handed it over to my editor, Sherry. The cover was designed by Natasha Brown.

4. How is your book going to inspire the readers?

I hope it inspires them to stay close to their family if they have one and to give people chances to change for the better.

5. If you are given the chance to change one thing in your book what would it be?

I would make it a series.

6. How do you find time to write and which part of the day is best for writing for you?

These days, I tend to write in the afternoons and evenings, but I am always thinking about writing. I can’t turn it off.

7. Which books have inspired you the most, in the journey of writing this book?

I think I’ve always enjoyed reading thrillers, suspense, and romantic suspense novels by authors like Catherine Coulter and James Patterson, but not one book in particular inspired me. I wanted to write my own suspense novel my way.

8. What is the best advice, you would give for writers who are trying to write a book?

I would tell them to sit down and work on the book until they have finished the first draft before they go back to edit and critique their work.

9. What are your hobbies?

I love reading, writing poetry, being outside, going to church, taking photographs, and just hanging out with my family.

10. What can we expect from you in the future?

I plan to write more suspense novels and am also working on another young-adult series.

Author Bio:

Fiction author, Sarah Elle Emm, is a native of Evansville, Indiana and graduate of The University of Evansville. She has lived in Germany, England, Mexico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and traveled extensively beyond. Sarah is the author of LAST VACATION (suspense), and the teen fantasy Harmony Run Series, which includes PRISMATIC, OPALESCENT, CHATOYANT, and NACREOUS. She is also the author of MARRYING MISSY, (women's fiction), a #1 Amazon Best Seller. When she's not walking the plank of her daughters' imaginary pirate ship, she is writing.

Author Interview of The Siege

Author Interview of The Siege: A Psychological Thriller by James Hanna

Book:  The Siege

Author: James Hanna

Registration number: JH121214

ASIN: B001PROD3U

Publication date: 2-27-14

Publishing company: Sand Hill Review Press

About the book

On November 23, 2000, one hundred inmates hold twelve guards hostage in the laundry dorm of The Indiana Penal Farm. Emergency squads are massed along the fence, awaiting the order to attack, while sharpshooters are perched like crows on top of the administration building. Tom Hemmings, a dorm counselor, has been conscripted to defuse the standoff. But the inmates are divided into rival gangs, the guards into feuding unions. And the prison administration has sparked the standoff by forcing cut-rate services upon the facility. As he enters the prison, Tom's heart starts to hammer. Who are the good guys? Who are the bad? And how will this nightmare end?

1. What inspired you to write the book?

I wrote The Siege to dramatize the plight of anyone working in the prison industry.  Mismanagement, danger, and contracts with cutthroat privateers are a big part of the problem.  Another problem is that the employee unions are generally too ineffectual to represent the line staff.  Either they are in bed with management or so busy vilifying one another that they have lost sight of their true mission.  I also wrote it as a metaphor for America today.  Like the bureaucrats in The Siege, our politicians seem to have prioritize mercantilism over humanity.  Thomas Jefferson is quoted as saying, “The end of democracy and the defeat of the American Revolution will occur when government falls into the hands of lending institutions and moneyed incorporations.”  In America today, I feel we are close to the defeat of the American Revolution. 

2. When did you realize that you wanted to write a book?

When I was in my early twenties roaming Australia.  I read a lot of books by campfire, which inspired me to write.  Eventually, I rented a bungalow on the Tasman coast and began my writing career.

3. Who helped you in writing this book?

My publisher with Sand Hill Review Press, Tory Hartmann, was a huge help.  She guided me through three drafts of the novel in which I cut excessive verbiage and honed my characters.  I also got help from my critique group and Elise Miller, a writer whose book, A Time to Cast Away Stones, was also published by Sand Hill Review Press.

4. How is your book going to inspire the reader?

The book does not have an inspirational message.  I think messages diminish novels by turning them into rhetoric.  I want the reader to experience the situation for himself.  I want his to smell the tear gas, see the dead bodies, and feel the frustration of an insular prison bureaucracy.  And then I’d like him to come to his own conclusions.

5. Why did you choose the psychological thriller formula?

The Siege is not a formulized novel.  It’s dynamic lies in the tangled psychological interactions of its characters.  I prefer books that are character-driven over books that are plot-based.  I think they touch the reader on a much deeper level.

6. How do you find time to write and which part of the day do you find best for writing?

I wrote The Siege in spurts over a ten year period.  I wrote mostly on the weekends because my job as a probation officer in a domestic violence unit took a lot out of me.  In many ways, I stole time to write while fighting sleep deprivation.  But the book needed to be written—the characters converged on me like riled-up strangers demanding to be heard.  I’m now retired from criminal justice and have the luxury of writing every day.  I generally write in the morning and market in the afternoon.

7. Which books have inspired you the most in the journey of writing this book?

That’s hard to say since I’ve read so many.  The ones that come to mind at this moment are Johnny Got His Gun, Drift, Lone Survivor, and Atonement.  These books capture the disconnect between war and the polemics of war, which is a theme in The Siege.  I also like The Blood Meridian for its bleak sensuality. 

8. What is the best advice you would give for writers who are trying to write a book?

It’s important to realize that there is no substitute for hard work—not even talent.  Thousands of talented people try to write books but get derailed.  I would urge writers who are serious about completing a book to set up a writing schedule.  This will mean giving up something they enjoy.  I would also urge them to get meaningful feedback.  This is more likely to come from strangers than from family and friends.  And once the book is completed, they will need to learn the dynamics of marketing.  Otherwise, they will become the equivalent of a musician playing outside of a subway station.  No matter how brilliantly the musician plays, ninety-nine people out of a hundred will walk past him without a second thought.  

9. What are your hobbies?

Tennis and reading.   I would urge all writers to have a hobby.  Something that helps them re-energize.

10. What can we expect from you in the future?

Call Me Pomeroy, my second novel, will soon be in its third edition.  This is a book about the misadventures of a street musician who joins Occupy Oakland and its spinoffs movements in England and France.  He does not join for political reasons but to get on television, attract an agent, and land a million dollar recording contract.  Some of the book was serialized in Empty Sink Publishing, an online journal that likes the quirky stuff.  I’m now hoping to bring Pomeroy to a larger audience. 

  

About the Author

James Hanna wandered Australia for seven years before settling on a career in criminal justice. He spent twenty years as a counselor in the Indiana Department of Corrections and fourteen years as a probation officer in San Francisco where he was assigned to a domestic
violence and stalking unit. James' stories have appeared in many journals and have received three Pushcart nominations. The Siege is his first published novel.

Author Website: James Hanna