Writers, Emotions and Reviews

One major attribute of a fiction writer - whatever the genre - is to feel emotions. The writer has to be able to feel the emotions so they can put those same emotions on paper well enough so the reader feels the same emotions. Adventure writers have to make their reader's heart pound, their pulse quicken and those pages turn. Romance writers have to make their reader's heart go pitter-pat, their pulse quickens and depending what kind of romance, tears fall, body parts go 'oh my' and a sigh escapes when the happy ever after happens. Mystery, suspense, thriller, horror writers all have to feel the emotions they want the readers to feel - fear, tension, anxiety, startle, checking behind doors and under the bed for spookies. Writers have to know and feel these emotions so they can write them.

But therein is the problem. Writers also live in a real world with real life that creates real emotions. That is probably why, historically, writers are drawn to alcohol and drugs. Because writers feel things intensely, whether it is in real life or in imagination.

So, when a writer gets a bad review, life crashes around them. After all, it is not just rejection of an object. It is rejection of the outpouring by the writer of personal emotions into a medium that everyone can see and someone had the audiacity to reject.

We all learn how to deal with negative reviews. We pout, stomp our feet, drink, eat chocolate, and myriad other things to get rid of the negative emotions the review puts into our psyche.

This blog is not about a negative review.

When a writer gets a good review there is just as much emotion - but this time there is dancing, singing, yelling it from the rooftop, eating chocolate (there is always chocolate no matter what emotion, at least for me there is) and all sorts of things to do to savor the wonderful emotions we gratefully receive.

I was doubly blessed this week. I got good reviews for Prophecy of Vithan

and for Stone of Cruento.

Jean of Fallen Angels Reviews gave Prophecy of Vithan 5 Fallen Angels and said it is a recommended read.

Every once in a while, I find a book that grabs me and draws me into the emotional life of the protagonist, making it almost impossible for me to stop reading. Prophecy of Vithan is such a book. This is a complex, multi-layered science fiction novel with a great love story mixed in. It includes the stories of a mentor protecting her student, a woman trapped by slavery, a man and woman chained together by an emotional connection they cannot resist, a rogue organization attempting to gain absolute control over the true government, and the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy that will save the world. That’s a lot to cover in one book! The love story will be very satisfying to the romantics among us, with a few moderately explicit erotic love scenes for spice. I wholeheartedly recommend this very interesting science fiction romance as great summer reading.

Amy of Bitten by Books gave Stone of Cruento 4 Grave Stones and said

This is an enjoyable story of adventure, love, betrayal, faith and belief that kept my full attention from the moment I started reading the first page. Did I mention the love scenes are hot and wild?

So, I am breaking out the chocolate, dancing on the rooftop while yelling and soaking in all these good feelings. I will then sit down and write like crazy a scene that will give my readers something to feel deeply.

What if you were the artist?

Imagine if you will, you are the artist given the job of designing a cover for Stone of Cruento. You have to create a cover that represents the story line. One that shows the potential reader something about the heroine and the world she exists in.
Now, try to imagine what you would design to picture this:
Claren is a young woman who has grown up as a normal Earth girl. You know, boyfriends, college, a good career, a lover and prospects of marriage. Then she is bitten by a vampire, but she doesn't become a normal vampire. She can go out in the daylight, although she does burn badly. She can eat garlic, go to church, and has no problem with crosses or holy water. She can eat regular food but it is blood that sustains her. She is stronger than humans and has many of the "normal" attributes of the real vampires. She is guarded by an ogre.
Then she discovers that she is from another planet. And she has been sired by centaurs. In fact, she is a centaur.
Now as the artist, how do you convey that?
Well, that is what I have put the artists of Cerridwen Press through. Stone of Cruento is on the Coming Soon page, but with only a place holder. The artists are still struggling with the concept of a vampire centaur from Earth. Whatever they come up with, I am sure it will be phenomenal. After all considering the fantastic cover they designed for Prophecy of Vithan, how could I doubt their talents?

December, New Year and Resolutions

December, A New Year and Resolutions
Today is December 1. Can you believe it? This year as sped by and has crawled by.I don't usually talk about personal things. I don't think the Internet is the place for personal things. But today I am going to write about my personal last year.The year before, 2005, I made a resolution to write a book. On December 2006 I signed a contract with Ellora's Cave/Ceridwen Press for my first novel Prophecy of Vithan. For 2007 I have finished a second novel - Stone of Cruento and am starting a third novel - Vials of Aquilonia. My resolution is to finish Aquilonia and write oh, let's say two more books.January 2006 I made a resolution to lose 50 pounds. I lost 50 and regained 40. I guess that is a 10 pound score for the resolution side. So, for 2007 I am resolving to lose those 50 pounds again and maybe lose another 50. (Yeah, I'm that big, but beautiful too)In 2006 My quadriplegic husband started showing some improvement. Just this morning he started moving his paralyzed arm. He is eating two meals a day - where he had to have tube feedings last year. He has an electric wheelchair and we have a small hoist to put him in and out of the car so we can go places. 2007 resolution is to continue to work with him to get him improving even more.In 2006 I had my first experience with blogs, websites, chats, and yahoo groups. I have 15 blogs. Just in trying to understand what I was doing, I over did. I also have 3 websites, or is it 4? In 2007 my resolution is to manage them all and to blog regularly instead of sporatically.How many resolutions will I manage to keep? Who knows. The fun in resolutions is making them. The hard work is doing them. Maybe I will be able to keep one or two. Maybe none. But I had fun this year - granted life got in the way occaisionally - but I had fun anyway.So I will make my resolutions. And break them. What resolutions are you planning on breaking this year??

Chance to Win a copy of Prophecy of Vithan

Prophecy of Vithan is being featured on Stifle the Squeal . I am interviewed as well.

If you leave a comment on the blog you will be entered to win a copy of my novel Prophecy of Vithan.

Stop by and get your chance at winning.

4.5 out of 5 Blue Ribbons from Romance Junkies

Romance Junkies.com reivewed Prophecy of Vithan and gave it 4.5 out of 5 Blue Ribbons.

What that means:

Our Blue Ribbon Rating System

2 Ribbons - a book I did not mind reading.

3 Ribbons - a book I enjoyed reading.

4 Ribbons - a book I would recommend to all my friends.

5 Ribbons - a book I would gush about to all my friends and recommend to anyone and everyone. A real page-turner.

See why Romance Junkies Reviewer Anita says about Prophecy of Vithan available at Cerridwen Press

Exciting action and wild adventure are found throughout this thrilling book, PROPHECY OF VITHAN by Charlene Leatherman. Powerful characters draw you in and make you a part of their story. Morgan finds herself in the center of a prophecy as it begins to unfold. There are those around her that want to make sure the prophecy does not come to pass. Surrounded by enemies, she goes on a dangerous mission to save the prince. She finds herself in a fight just to stay alive. Morgan is a wonderful character with astonishing skills and powers. Her strength and fighting abilities are amazing. She is a strong woman that is more than able to take care of herself. I truly liked this character. She has a wonderful personality and she works hard to protect those she cares about. I found myself anxiously awaiting the point in which the prophecy would take place. Len is a man that finds himself in a difficult situation. He falls for a woman he believes is an enemy. His skills are very similar to Morgan's and they seem to be evenly matched. The interactions between Morgan and Len are exciting from the beginning. The sparks fly between them whether they are fighting or making love. When all is said and done, they are perfect for each other. Len and Morgan find themselves on the run on a planet with many dangerous surprises. The thrilling action is fast—paced and breathtaking. The story is captivatingly imaginative. PROPHECY OF VITHAN by Charlene Leatherman is a fascinating science fiction fantasy that readers are sure to enjoy. "

4 Steaming Cups from Coffee Time Romance

Title: Prophecy of Vithan

Author: Charlene Leatherman

Publisher: Cerridwen Press

Genre: Romance, Futuristic

Publication date: August, 2007

ISBN: 9781419910135

Pages: 275

COFFEE TIME ROMANCE REVIEW CUP RATING SYSTEM

4 Steaming Cups equal
Outstanding Great Read

This is a very outstanding book you would like to keep to read again in the future.

See why Coffee Time Romances Liadan gave Prophecy of Vithan 4 Steaming Cups and says:

The future world in this book is both foreign and unlike anything I have ever read and absolutely amazing. Morgan is the tough woman she needs to be, but has a softer side that she hides very well. Len wants to protect her and love her but wars with himself and with his orders over what to do about Morgan. The struggle and the pain that are encountered in this book is true of everyday life and that is what makes this story so 'down to earth'. Ms. Leatherman is an author to keep your eye on for more exciting work down the road.

Liadan

Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance

Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books

Excerpt:
Morgan scouted the aisles. The store was nearly empty, in the early morning. Morgan found a side door, opening it slightly. Patrol cars lined the street and parked along the alley. When the Protectors arrived they would be charging in, phasers blazing. Morgan noticed an old fashioned ladder assembly to the roof of the building next door. Morgan jerked her head up as the distinctive siren of a Protector's car came closer. No time to use the mainframe.Morgan stormed to the front of the store. The toy phaser pointed ahead of her. She pointed the phaser at Len's head."All right Prot, I know you and your friends are after me. Come away from the manager. You're going to be my hostage." Morgan shouted loud enough for the patrols to hear outside.Len looked quizzically at Morgan. "What?""Get over here, or I'll blow you away!" Morgan waved the phaser so no one would get a clear view of the toy. "Put your hands in the air, all of you. You, manager, end the call. Everybody on the floor." Patrons and the cashier dropped to the floor. The old lady struggled to get to her knees. "Nobody gets hurt. You, old lady. Yeah, you. You go out front. Tell the patrols Morgan Taj di Sonij has a prot hostage. Tell them if they come in here I'll kill everyone." The old lady, thankful to be away from the scary situation, hurried out the front door.Len put his hands on the back of his head, fingers laced. The manager spoke quickly into the vid-phone, as Morgan knew he would. Morgan knew patrol procedures well. The patrolmen would not fire or storm the store until the Protectors arrived. In a hostage situation, even Protectors hesitated. The old woman's warning would stop any early attack. By giving away her presence, Morgan saved the people in the store.Len placed himself between her and the view of the others."What are you doing?" Len whispered."You've been set up. You’re marked as a Rogue Protector. Your buddies are on the way, with orders to kill you and me.""But my father…""Is either in on it or controlled." Morgan hissed. "I know you prots are armed." Morgan changed her voice to a shout.. "Give me your phaser, now." Len reached into his holosuit and pulled out his phaser. He handed it to Morgan. Morgan roughly shoved Len ahead of her. "Out in front. You're going to be my shield."Everybody in the store was on the floor, face down. Morgan could hear the patrolmen calling with the megaphone telling her to surrender. She shoved Len toward the side door. Morgan tucked the toy phaser in her pocket. She waved the real phaser at Len."Be careful, that one is real." Len whispered. He cringed as the phaser swung close to his head. "Where are we going?""The metal ladder against the wall in back. While we're climbing, I'll creat a distraction. You contact Hildai. We need transportation. Get her to send a car to the roof."Morgan, with the phaser pointed at Len, kicked open the door. Patrolmen crouched behind the open doors of their cars. Cars floated a few inches above the ground blocking the end of the alley. The ladder to the roof of the building next door remained clear."Get back!" With one hand, Morgan held the phaser to Len's head. With the other hand, she held his collar and shoved him forward. She wanted the patrolmen to believe he was a hostage, not a willing participant. "I'll kill this Prot if any of you move." Morgan walked Len to the ladder. Morgan motioned for Len to start climbing the ladder. As he climbed, he accessed Hildai on his com-link. He whispered in his request for a car to hone in on his signal. Morgan started climbing the ladder after Len was part way to the roof. She turned and fired the phaser into one of the cars.The car exploded into flames. Billowing smoke filled the alley. The patrolmen scattered. Morgan and Len climbed to the roof. Two Protectors climbing the opposite side of the building crested the roof as Morgan came to the top. Len bent to help Morgan. One of the Protectors pointed a phaser at them. He fired. The phaser blast exploded on the metal ladder. Morgan pulled her hand back to keep from getting hit. She lost her balance. Len grabbed her holosuit and pulled her over the edge of the roof. He and Morgan landed on his back on the roof. Their eyes met for an instance. Fire and electricity passed between them. Another phaser shot hit nearby. Morgan rolled and shot at the Protector. The Prot dodged behind a cooler vent. A second Protector rushed at Len. Len rolled away, getting to his feet. He punched the man in the ribs. The officer punched at Len. Len blocked the punch and hit the man on the jaw. The man fell back. Another Protector took up the fight with Len. The Protector behind the cooler vent shot at Morgan. She returned fire. The phaser shot sparked against the metal.A patrol car landed on the roof kicking up dust and gravel from the roof. Morgan tensed, ready to shoot."This is the only car I could access." Hildai's voice intoned from Len's com-link.Len slammed his fist into the Protector fighting with him. "Come on!" Len called to Morgan as the man collapsed. The patrol car door opened. Morgan jumped into the car behind Len. He sat at the wheel. He put the car in gear and sped away.Morgan sat in the copilot seat. She triggered an electric shock blast to the roof. The blast knocked the patrolmen and the remaining Protectors unconscious. The resulting EMT blast disabled the patrol and Protector cars.Len flipped on the siren. Rescue vehicles landed near the burning cars. Ambulances and troop cars sounded their sirens as they came to rescue civilians from the vines and to stop looters. The patrol car Len and Morgan rode in became another in many cars above the city. The car passed unnoticed through the chaos toward the edge of the dome. "How do we get out of here? We have to get to the Temple? Which way?" Len asked."By the casino, a membrane you pass through." Morgan answered. She could feel her chest tightening."Looks like the patrols are too busy to chase us." Len guided the shuttle toward the casino. Even from the distance, Morgan could see ships going through a membrane of the eco-dome, like going through a soap bubble."Do we get clearance or something?" Len asked. "Not many want to leave the dome. The line is short. Wait your turn, then go through. Press the nose of the car to the membrane and push. The membrane will give and let you out. Watch the vines. They try to capture ships leaving the dome." Morgan said."Vines?" Len asked."Haven't you seen the vines chasing the people?" Len shook his head. "The membrane is by the casino to provide entertainment for the tourists. They love to watch the vines crush a ship and eat the passengers.""Eat the passengers?" Len said, pulling the car into line."The Vithan plant life is carnivorous." Morgan smiled weakly."I heard the plant life is carnivorous, but I thought it meant eating bugs or something." Len gave Morgan a dirty look as she snickered. "Do you mind if I tell you are beautiful in this early dawn light?"Morgan glanced at her reflection in the glass. The early dawn light reflected on her pale skin. Her reflection seemed paler than normal, almost opalescent. A symptom of low blood alcohol."I don't mind. Maybe you're right about not being followed." Morgan said with a sigh.Len positioned the craft directly in front of the membrane. One car remained in front of them.Len looked in the rear view mirror. Red and blue lights blinking caught Morgan's eye. The sirens started blaring behind them."Nope. They found us." Len raised the patrol car above the car attempting to pass through the membrane. "I hope this membrane thing will let two cars go at once. Hold on."Len gunned the accelerator. Morgan braced herself against the dashboard. The patrol car scraped the top of the other car. Morgan could hear the lights and the roof of the patrol car squeal as metal tore. The membrane screamed shrill high pitched ear splitting sounds as the two cars crammed into a space made for one. The car bucked against the membrane. Metal ripped as the two cars attempted to force their way through a space made for one car. Morgan leaned over the seat. She hung over the back, pulling up the cushion."What are you doing?" Len revved the engine trying to get the patrol car through the membrane."Patrol cars are equipped with a thrust booster. It's under the back seat. I can reach it." Morgan reached under the cushion to a panel of simple switches and dials. "Damn! It's written in Saroneeze.""What's written?" Len asked, using all his strength to control the bucking car."The switch labels. My Saroneeze is really bad."The patrol car jarred violently."They're shooting at us. Choose one or flip them all. It doesn't matter at this moment."Morgan considered the switches. The patrol car shuddered with another shot into its frame.Morgan closed her eyes and flipped a switch. The auxiliary sirens started blaring. Morgan grimaced as Len started cussing at her. She turned off the sirens. She flipped another switch. The patrol car shuddered then roared as the thrusters fired. The membrane groaned then screamed as if giving birth. Twin cars, almost conjoined, were delivered to Vithan. Their patrol car dashed from the membrane and headed for the dense foliage of the jungle. The other car landed near the dome by the casino. Morgan saw the owner from the back window crawl out of his car swinging his fist at the patrol car. "We may make it." Len said hopefully."They shouldn't follow us into the jungle. It's dangerous for cars without flame throwers." Morgan said. Her strength leaving. She stayed awake through force of will.A vine, thick as a man's leg, reached for the patrol car. Len turned to avoid it. The maneuver pulled the car into the open. Len gunned the car into the foliage, pushing hard against an immovable green wall. A Protector car came in line with the patrol car. Len maneuvered the car out of line of fire. Morgan fired the small phaser at the Protector. The shot did little damage. The Protectors returned fire.Morgan's side exploded with pain as her side of the car disintegrated. Len fought to control the car. She hung on tightly to keep from falling out of the car."Hang on. Damn protectors!" Len reached for Morgan, holding her in the car and tried to steer at the same time.Charlene Leatherman, Prophecy of Vithan by Cerridwen Press, released August 2, 2007Defeating the villain, destroying the monster, delivering the hero, and never breaking a nail. www.charleneleatherman.com

Prophecy of Vithan First Review

Prophecy of Vithan recieved its first review by TwoLipsReviews.

Alisha gave it 5 Kisses.

TwoLipsReviews gives their definition of 5 Kisses as:5 Kisses – Excellent! If my review didn’t have a word number requirement, I’d simply say “READ THIS BOOK- YOU’LL LOVE IT!”

Alisha says about the book:

"Wow, does Ms. Leatherman suck you into to a totally explosive book that kept me on the edge of my seat! The Prophecy of Vithan is one tremendous book with a Star Wars flavor but where the villains are fire-breathing dragons from another dimension. The fantastic setting works really well and I was captivated by it. The Prophecy of Vithan is an absolute must read. "For the full review visit TwoLipsReviews.

Here is an excerpt: (rated PG13)

Vespasian walked around Morgan, inspecting her as the physician injected her with a counteragent. The physician left.Morgan blinked her eyes as they cleared. Like waking from a low blood alcohol episode, grogginess slowly left her mind and body."Dirty as it is, the pale blue tunic suits you." Vespasian said after Morgan recovered from the drug. "I think I would have chosen lavender for you, to match your eyes. The blue is nice. I particularly like,” Vespasian thumbed Morgan's nipples with both hands until they became hard. "The way it accents your beasts."Morgan tried to pull away. The grav-locks wouldn't let her. She glared at him, hoping he would see the hatred in them."Still a spitfire, I see. I'm glad marriage hasn't softened my Morgan."Morgan tried to shake her head. She was not his. She never would be his. Morgan wanted loose so she could rip his throat out. Instead, all she could do is stand and glare at the monster in front of her.Vespasian smiled at his captive. He placed his finger under Morgan's chin and caressed her jaw line following it to her ear. Morgan closed her eyes. She tried to remove herself from the throne room, mentally. The block placed in her mind by the Psy kept her in the moment. Morgan mouthed a curse at the Regent. He smiled. His finger circled her ear, touching along the nape of her neck. Delicately, the Regent brushed Morgan's braid from her back over her shoulders. He placed the braid over the erect nipple of one breast. His hand gently shifted from her breast to her back. Morgan tensed. Grabbing a handful of cloth, Vespasian ripped the shift off Morgan. The silk tearing from her body pulled and burned on her shoulders and around her arms. Morgan could feel goose bumps rise as her body responded to the change of temperature. Her stomach churned as Vespasian traced the scars on her back with his finger. He pressed into the folds of her skin. She shuddered as the Regent began using his tongue where his fingers had explored."Was that a good one?" Vespasian asked. His hands continued to explore Morgan's body. "Do you enjoy when I do this? Has Len touched you in this manner? Your body tells me much. I see in your eyes, you want to tell me even more." Morgan hated that she couldn't speak. She was glad she couldn't speak. She wanted to tell Vespasian what she thought of him. She knew she would only be beaten for saying what she thought. She did not want to know how long he would beat her this time.Vespasian left his task and walked in front of Morgan. His attitude different, strange. "If you swear, on Sonij honor, not to leave the throne room, I'll remove the grav-locks and the silencer."Morgan nodded. She held her hands to him and lifted her chin, revealing her throat. She had to trust him to remove the restraints and not kill her."Remember, this is an oath on Sonij honor." Vespasian grinned. Morgan sighed heavily. She nodded.The Regent keyed in the codes and removed the restraints. Morgan kept her surprise to her self. Vespasian did not touch her during the removal process. She expected him to fondle her and cause more discomfort for her. He didn't.Morgan rubbed her wrists. She flexed her ankles. She cleared her throat. "What is it with you, Vespasian? Why can't you leave me alone? What do I mean to you? You can have any woman in this system, in this galaxy. Why me?"Vespasian smiled at Morgan. He turned and sauntered to his throne. He whirled and in an exaggerated flounce, he sat. He looked at his hand, studying his immaculately manicured fingernails, before answering. "Do you realize you are the only one who withstood the torture necessary for Vespasian to get off? Oh, he tried other methods. He was a true sadist, through and through. I've inherited his perverse obsession. I don't understand it thoroughly. Other women provide the blood I need to sustain this shape, but it is you I want. Not to kill, to -""You keep referring to Vespasian in the third person. Have you gone over the edge?" Morgan interrupted, hoping to distract Vespasian from his current train of thought.Vespasian leaped from the throne. He grabbed Morgan roughly and kissed her. She pushed with all her might to keep him away. Even with her strength, he held her tightly as he forced his mouth on hers. Morgan's heart raced in horror. He used brute strength, not control on her. The man Vespasian never used his strength alone. He was too insecure. He used control to make her respond. After what seemed an eternity in hell, the Regent released Morgan with a push. He meandered back to the throne."You…you're not Vespasian! Who are you?"

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Ladies and Gentlemen,No you are not having problems with your vision. You are indeed seeing two of me. I am Maggie and this is Maggie as well. Our ship traveled through a compression, duplicating gravitational field. Each of you have been "scrunched" and "duped". So now you can go around talking to yourself and noone will say anything. Giggle. Don't worry, this condition will wear off in a few days. In the meantime, we are on our way to visit a very interesting moon, Cruento. Cruento is the only moon in the Twin Planet System that was created by two Ancients instead of one. It is divided into two halves. One half has clear water and is inhabited by centaurs. The other half has blood water and is inhabited by what we might call vampires. There may be other species but none have been recorded. We will be there tomorrow. Also, be prepared to revisit Vithan now that the Protectors have left. We'd like to take this time to thank our sponsor Charlene Leatherman author of Prophecy of Vithan available with Cerridwen Press.

Morgan and Len

Morgan leaned her cheek against Len's hand.
"You're tense," Len began massaging his wife's shoulders. "You were so deep in thought. I didn't think you heard me come in."
"Um. That feels so good. I have hauled cargo, unloaded ships, danced for hours, butchered zrabicas and battled dragons, but shelling beans is the hardest job I've ever done. I am so tired."
"What were you thinking about?"
"When we first met."
"You mean when we were married?"
"No," Morgan smiled. "When I tied you up and left you in the vithan village. It was even before I became Khai's bodyguard. Do you remember?"
"Oh yeah. Tige Minton was my partner." Len slipped his hand off Morgan's shoulder and into her blouse. "Where are the kids?" Len whispered in Morgan's ear. His tongue tickled the edge. Morgan shivered as he blew on her ear, cooling the moisture from his tongue.
"Inhibe took Ophah and Edan on a tour of the Amethyst Forest. She promised to protect them from falling crystals with her wings. Inhibe is doing quite well with her dragon lessons. She can turn her wings almost to stone. I told her..."
Len leaned over Morgan and silenced her with a kiss. "Be quiet woman. The kids are gone and your man needs some loving."
Morgan laughed into Len's mouth.
"He does, does he?" Morgan turned so she could kiss Len. "Let me just turn off the transmitter."

The person you are trying to contact is not accepting transmissions at this time. Please submit your contact information and the person or persons you are trying to contact will open the com-link at a later date.

Vithan Jungle

Internal Log Entry

Tige Minton. What can I say? I would love to take him out back and beat the crap out of him. But all that would get me is a reprimand from headquarters and possibly a demotion.

He claimed that he couldn't hike into the Vithan Jungle. He stated that he would hire a pilot to take us into the jungle. I tried to tell him that as Protectors we were completely capable of avoiding man-eating vines and hostile tribes men. Would he listen? Of course not.

Tige found a perfect pilot. Neither Tige nor I have a pilot's license. So he signed out a shuttle and hired a pilot.

I should have known. Actually, I should have left the moment I discovered the criminal I was looking for was Morgan Taj Zephyrain. If she is the original, then she has been evading authorities, governments and bounty hunters for nearly...of course she couldn't be the original. She is much too young and beautiful to be the orginal.

I digress.

Tige found the perfect pilot. He was as tall as I am. A Traveler by the look of him. Black hair braided in that intricate twining they used to wear before they were outlawed. Granted Travelers make the best pilots. This one wore retro jeans and a black leather jacket. And dark glasses. Never took them off.

I should have known.

The pilot flew the shuttle like a pro. Avoided vines by flying around the tendrils, over and under the branches. Never used a flamer once. Most pilots would simply burn a path through the vines. Not this one. Real skill.

I should have known.

Another thing. The pilot drank ... alot. I have never seen anyone drink so much alcohol before. About seven bottles of very expensive whiskey. All gone in a matter of minutes. And he still managed to fly that shuttle without getting hit by a single vine.

When I got close to the pilot, I should have known. My mind began to wander dwell on things I had no business thinking on. At least not on duty.

Half way to the village, the passenger compartment of the shuttle filled with gas. Sleeping gas.
The dreams I dreamt would burn the holograms off this recorder.

Anyway, I woke up tied to a pole inside of a hut in a village. Tige was tied to another pole. The pilot was gone. So was our shuttle. A small holographic projector was set next to me.

When one of the tribesmen untied us, I played the hologram. The most sensuous, most beautiful and seductive women I have ever seen moved in ways that set my body on fire. She smiled and I wanted to...well never mind what I wanted to. Then she laughed.

"I left you alive. I'm not sure why. Maybe because I think the blond is good looking. Something about him calls to me. Maybe I'm just like a good joke. I think we will meet again. By the way, my name is Morgan Taj Zephyrain. You can tell the Protectorate that you were piloted by the infamous Morgan. If you follow me, I may not be so nice next time. After all I am known as a cold-blooded killer."

I should have known.

Len Braxton out.

Read how Len Braxton and Morgan meet in Prophecy of Vithan by Charlene Leatherman at www.cerridwenpress.com

Log Entry Len Braxton

Internal log entry:

Len Braxton, Master Protector Grade 14. Log Entry

I have just spent the most frustrating eight days of my life. After those imbeciles lost Morgan Taj Zephyrain and after Tige managed to assault the tour guide of StarBright Tourism Agency, I was recalled to the Galactic Council for a debriefing. Debriefing? I barely got any information. The subatomic particle of information I was able to get is she went underground into some jungle. I tried to convince the GC that holding me at headquarters was wasting precious time and she could be getting away. Would they listen? Of course not. They listened to Tige. They took his version of rebellious aliens hampering the investigation. And demanded why I didn’t torture the tourists to discover what they knew about Morgan.

That woman is becoming more trouble than she is worth.

Of course, the reward for her return is huge. More than I make in 10 years. But something about the GC’s insistence that she be returned alive bothers me. If she is that dangerous, wouldn’t dead be a better solution? And why do they insist on DNA sampling of anyone claiming to be Morgan? Granted DNA will identify anyone we capture, but there seems to be more to the request for her DNA than usual. I will have to do some investigating of my own.

I have to admit that I do not trust the GC. True I have been raised by the Protectorate and trained since I was five to be a Protector for the Galactic Council. Their methods and their politics, not to mention their quest for power, really turns my stomach.

End Internal log entry.

Begin Official Log Entry

Junior Protector Tige Minton and myself, Master Protector Len Braxton log entry.

Tige and I are initiating landing procedures into the casino district of the moon Vithan. It has been rumored that fleeing felon Morgan Taj Zephyrain was seen in the jungles of Vithan after escaping from the club Arena.

Billy, the club manager, after being released from questioning by other Protectors returned to the club and has not ventured further than his house and the club. It is suspected that he is aware of his being watched. That source of information is considered exhausted.

Tige wants to visit the casinos and question the players at the casino. I have not given the approval for such a turn in investigation. Our information states that Morgan has traveled into the jungle. We will travel by foot into the jungle. There is reported to be vegetation that is dangerous and as such we will carry hand held flame throwers. Unknown animal life. Primitive tribes would be within hiking distance. If we do not discover some semblance of proof that Morgan traveled into the jungle within the next day or so, I will officially abandon the jungle search.

According to the maps we were able to acquire there is a primitive tribe near the edge of the jungle. That is our destination for the first night. We will question the people there. (sub comment: I will not allow Tige to cause a galactic incident. The procedure will be questioning only.)

Tige Minton and I, Len Braxton, will leave for the jungle in the morning.

Log out.

End Official Long Entry


Prophecy of Vithan is available to buy at Cerridwen Press.
Discover what Len discovers about Morgan.
Charlene Leatherman
Defeat the villain, Destroy the monster, Deliver the hero and never break a nail.

Len Braxton, Protector

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Please remain in your seats. I know you have the StarBright Tourist Agency apologies, and I would like to add mine.
I am Master-Grade Protector Len Braxton. This is my associate Junior-Grade Protector Tige Minton.
No, Tige, you do not need to brandish you weapon to emphasize that you are a Protector.
A-Hem, well, yes, back to what I was saying. I am Len Braxton. You may address me as Protector Braxton. I am here to interview you about the criminal Morgan Taj Zephyrain. Since you were all in the Arena at the time of the attempted capture and her subsequent escape, my associate and I will interview you about what you saw or heard. Perhaps something you were witness to, no matter how trivial, will give us an idea of where she is headed.
Tige, I said interview. That means with your mouth and a recorder. I did not say for you to invade anyone's mind. --- Yes, I understand the Protector Training Manual says that interviewing is best handled by psychic invasion. However, I am in charge in the field on this particular mission and I determine how the interviews will be handled. Now release the tour guide from your Command. No, there is no need to strip search her and there will be no rape on my watch.
Please, Ladies and Gentlemen, I realize you are from other systems and even though you are under the governing body, the Galactic Council, you may not have dealt with Protectors before. My associate is a bit overly zealous. There is no reason to fear.
Yes, Tige, you are right, no reason to fear if you are innocent. No you may not probe for guilt. Besides, probing is only done by Psys.
(I have to speak to my father about another assignment. One with no partner.)
Each interview will be recorded. Please remain in your seats. We will come to you.
Passenger Interview Alpha 435 Beta one:
My name is Hugh Trent. Yeah, I was the one she was fighting with when you Prots, uh, excuse me officer, Protectors came crashing in and interrupted our tour. Man, I would have had her if you ... Yes, sir, I will keep to the subject. No, Protector Braxton, I wasn't really fighting with her. We were in the ring using sonic weapons. The setting was on 3 so no one would get hurt.
How, the hell should I know how the setting on her sonic broadsword got to 17. I assume she switched it. No, I didn't see her switch it.
Look, Morgan is one hot broad. I don't know if she is a criminal or not. All I know is that you and that freak ... yeah, sure, I'll be respectful of the office. Your partner sure doesn't deserve my respect. Hell, look at him.
Yes sir, I was there when the other Prots, er, Protectors tried to capture Morgan. You should have been there. I thought for sure they had her dead to rights. They came in there phasers locked on kill. I figured I was dead and she was history.
You know what? She pushed me - look at me I'm a body builder. I bench 500 pounds. Seh pushed me out of the way. Well, yeah, push is the wrong term. She dropped down into a crouch and swept her leg out and BAM down I went. Then I see her swing the flattened side of the sonic broadsword over her head. Must have activated some kind of energy system in the club, cause all the audience around the ring ... yeah us tourists and everyone else ... were suddenly outside of a force field. the only ones inside were the Prots and her. They started shooting at her. She used the broadsword to block the shots. Well, I don't guess a regular sword could do that, but a sonic sword at setting 17 could. I don't know. I'm not an engineer. Anyway, she did. I have no idea how.
She blocked this one shot. Then she ran and slid on the floor toward the Prots. You should have seen their faces. It was worth a thousand creds to see their faces. She jumps up and drops the sword. Morgan knoced the phasers out of their hands and landed some good punches. I know one really stupid Prot. Well, he had to be stupid to do what he done.
He grabs her and is trying to hold her while his associates try to restrain her. Man, if I live to be 100 I will never forget that sound. What sound? Why the sound of her breaking that Prot's arm. She moved in ways I never saw before. Some kind of really slick martial arts. Anyway, I hear this sickening crack and the Prot go all green. The other Prots call for back up.
All of a sudden, she looks up and sees us. Everyone standing outside of the field. Her face goes all concerned. Like she doesn't care about the fight at all. She is more concerned about us than fighting for her life. Wierd, huh?
That's when she shouts. She hollars to some guy named Billy. She yells one word. "Jungle."
She raised her wrist to her mouth and evidently spoke into some com-link. All of a sudden a sklight opens in the roof. A ladder comes from someplace. No, I told you I was outside of the force field. If I had been inside, I would have kicked some Prot butt. You got no right treating people the way you do.
No. I think I suddenly got a case of amnesia.
End Interview.


Be sure to read Prophecy of Vithan by Charlene Leatherman. Available at Cerridwen Press.

We interrupt this tour --

It's me, Charlene Leatherman. I had to jump in here.
I recieved my first review for Prophecy of Vithan. It is available for sale at www.cerridwenpress.com.

You can see an interview and the whole review on Anny Cook's blog at www.annycook.blogspot.com She also has the Crazy Serial Blog going on. You have got to visit and see what is going on with Emmiline and her vibrating peeler.

Here's part of what she said about my book:

Morgan, Len, and the rest catch you up in their twisting, turning struggles to defeat the bad guys, rescue the good guys, and live to tell about it. Just when you think you know everything, have figured it all out, there’s another turn or twist and you find yourself in a new surreal landscape with a new set of difficulties.

It’s been a while since I’ve met such an inventive, likeable cast of characters in one book. And the plot is so intricate and multi-layered that you race through the pages, anxious to see how Charlene will tie it all together! No, I’m not going to tell you any of the story. That would be a spoiler and I’m not fond of spoilers. I’ll just say that you need to run right out and get your copy of Prophecy of Vithan from Cerridwen Press. The warrior woman, Morgan, and her man, Len, are not to be missed!

Virgina calls home.

Mom? Yeah, this is Virginia. I am having so much fun on the tour. Yes, mama, I am behaving myself. Yes, I am learning a whole bunch. I ask questions and everybody answers.
Guess what? Morgan Zephyrain (un-huh, the one from the novel Prophecy of Vithan. Yeah, the one you bought from www.cerridwenpress.com) took us to go see the 23 Falls and the volcano. Then she took us to her club The Arena. It was really fun. I played some games. I got to do a holodeck game with some other kids. One kid had tentacles. He tried to cheat. But I wouldn't let him. There were 6 of us kids and we were playing Trazen dodgeball. He tried to throw eight balls at the same time. I told him that was cheating. Well, anyway, he didn't win and neither did I. Some little girl (littler than me) named Sylthe won.
Then I went and climbed the Wall. It was really neat. Some of the grown ups got upset. It was funny. You see, the wal sort of knew what you were doing. So when you took ahold of a rock the rock sunk in and came out some where else. Lots of grown ups fell off. It was okay though, cause they wore harnesses.
Then I got to go into the ring with Morgan herself. She let me hold a sonic sword. She called it a broadsword. It was real heavy. But it was okay mama. It was on a setting that didn't cut me. Morgan showed me how to hold it and even let me fight with her. Of course, I just banged her sword a couple of times. Then I had to leave but I got to watch her really fight against some grown ups. One man, he was real big and had lots of muscles, thought he could beat Morgan. He bragged alot. Morgan just smiled and it was so great. She beat him into the ground.
Not really, mama. But she sure beat him good.
No. I'm not at the club now. We had to leave.
The Protectors came and tried to arrest Morgan. She flipped the switch on the broadsword and fought like hell. I'm sorry mama. I heard one of the grown ups say that. She fought real hard and got away.
It was real exciting.
Yes, mama, I will try to get some sleep. No, mama, I don't know where we are going tomorrow. One of the moons I think. I can get the holographic tour book if you want me to. I think it is under the seat in the shuttle. Maybe some candy and some soda dropped on it. Oh, okay, I won't get it. I will let you tomorrow morning when Maggie tells us where we are going.
Nite Mama.

Morgan Takes Us to see the Sonij Volcano

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for your patience. Granted the quarantine lasted a bit longer than we anticipated, but everything is fine now. Hope you enjoyed the classic movies. I can never watch that Potter kid too often.
Morgan has obtained the needed permits to take us to the volcano on Sonij. That is where we will meet her. If you will turn on your view screens you will see the volcano up ahead.

Good Morning, everyone. Again, let me intorduce myself, just in case the Galactic Flu caused short term amnesia. I am Morgan Taj Zephyrain. I am the featured character in the novel Prophecy of Vithan. (By the way, Charlene Leatherman has asked me to tell you that the novel is now available to purchase at http://www.cerridwenpress.com)

Now, if you will follow me outside of the shuttle, we will go to the edge of the volcano. Yes, sir. It is very safe. Very astute, Virginia. You do feel cold not heat. Yes, Virginia, I am putting on a breather mask.
The Sonij volcano is the only oxygen spewing volcano in the galaxy. At least the only one found so far. No, ma'am. Do not remove your protective suit. The alcohol atmosphere is still surrounding the volcano. You will still be in danger. I am putting a breathe mask on because, even though I drink alcohol to fill my breathing receptacle, being close to the edge of the volcano would put me in a pure oxygen enviornment. I would be in a bad way at that point.

Please feel free to wander around the volcano. Just don't fall in. If you do, well, I can rescue you but I would rather spend my time at the Arena, letting you play at climbing walls instead of having to crawl into an active volcano rescuing a dumb tourist. Yes, Virginia, if you fall in then you are definitely a dumb tourist.

Yes sir, if you would like to go to the Arena now, as long as your fellow companions agree, we can go. Yes, ma'am. Children are welcome. You are all ready to go to the club? Great. Maggie if you will take your people back to the shuttle. I will get in my skiff and follow you to the moon Vithan and meet you at the club.

First Stop - Sonij and We're in for a Treat

Ladies and Gentlemen, may I have your attention please. We are approaching the landing pad on Sonij. Please return your chairs to the upright position and strap on your restraining harnesses. The descent to the Sonij landing pad is always rough and bumpy due to the harsh alcohol atmosphere. Be sure you have on your protective suits and are wearing your breathers. If you do not have on your protective gear you will not be allowed to disembark. The Sonij atmosphere is caustic enough to burn the skin of any species other than native Sonijian.

Yes, Captain? One moment, ladies and gentlemen. Maggie, #$$%&***()^)(*& #$%^&&*****(*^^%$()_)(%^ Ladies and Gentlemen. I have exciting news. We just received a transmission from Morgan Taj Zephyrain. You may know her from the novel being released August 2, 2007 Earthdate entitled Prophecy of Vithan from Cerridwen Press.

It seems Morgan is in between assignments and has volunteered to give us a tour of two of her favorite places on her home world. She will take us to the Twenty-three Falls of Afji. (Yes I know. She may not be able to hear it, but you can applaud. Not many people ever get to see the falls no matter how long their life is.) Morgan has also said she will take us to the much talked about Sonij volcano. Yes, you will get to stand on the ridge of the only active volcano on Sonij.

Ah. We have landed. I see Morgan coming up the ramp. Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present Morgan Taj Zephyrain.

Good morning everyone. My name is Morgan. I am Sonij. As you can see I do not need to wear a protective suit or a breather. No, (what is her name?) No, Virginia it would not be wise for you take off your suit. Your eyes would melt, your lungs would ulcerate and your skin would burn off your bones. If you survived that, your brain would die from exposure to the equivalent to 7000 proof alcohol.
(What? Sonij children are told the truth. You want me to sugar coat it and let you deal with her parents when you deliver their daughter to them as a piece of fried fat? I didn’t think so.)
Before we go to my shuttle, I will show you the traditional Sonij greeting. The dropping to one knee indicates recognition of slavery. The one knee upright indicates the freedom we desire. Covering the face indicates the loss of home world and the pain we cannot show. The appropriate response to friends and family is covering one’s face and stating “My pain is diminished by the increase of my kin”. Yes, Virginia, very good.

My people, my generation were raised as slaves. As such our culture is filled with the reminders of what we were forced to endure. No, sir. We do not use the culture to make ourselves victims. Rather we use our culture to remind ourselves that we are strong and we can overcome anything. One of the sayings, much like Hello, is Sonij is pain. It means that to be Sonijian you must endure. No matter how much you want to quit and how much it hurts, you endure because you are Sonij and that is what we do.

Is everyone seated in the shuttle? Excellent. I am sorry I do not have the more technically advanced seats like StarBright. My shuttle is functional rather than luxurious. Just make sure you have your seat belts fastened.

We are coming up on the Twenty-three Falls of Afji. Yes, I know it has only been five minutes. And yes I know that normally it takes fifteen minutes to fly from the landing pad to the falls. That is why I told you to fasten your seat belt.

The falls were named for one of the first people created by the Ancients. Who has not heard the legend? Ah, most of you. The legend about the Twin Planet System goes like this. There was one huge planet, the Father Planet. It was hit by a meteor and split into two. The Ancients, a race from another dimension, terraformed the two largest pieces into planets and the remaining pieces into the thirteen moons. Each moon and planet had a different Ancient create it with its own uniqueness. Sonij was created by Estratite. She then created the Sonij people. Afji was one of the first women created. It is said that she gave birth to twenty three sons all at once and suffered so much pain that she melted into the water. The water has been black ever since.

As you can see the water is indeed black. All water on Sonij is black and is drinkable by Sonij people. No, it is not polluted. It is fresh water, just not the color you are used to. This pool is fed by the 23 falls that you can see above you. The water does not come from a spring in the mountains like on other planets, Earth in particular. The water simply comes from the ground up in 23 separate places and falls into the pond.

Yes, sir, there is fishing. However, most of the fish catch the people. The smallest recorded fish in this pool was 75 feet long and weighed 900 pounds. No ma’am. We do not eat the fish. Sonij are generally vegetarians. Why? Excuse me for laughing. Sonij are vegetarians because the meat animals here eat people.

It is getting late. Maggie has suggested that I take you to your ship where you will bunk overnight and take you to the volcano tomorrow. Yes, Virginia, scary things do come out at night.

If Maggie can get permission, perhaps I can take you all on a short detour to my club on Vithan, the Arena. Well, let’s get you back to your ship and I will start on the permits to have StarBright Tours come to my club.

images from the internet. If you do not wish me to use your image please contact me.
image of the planet from www.hubblesite.org

Welcome to the Star Port

Welcome to the Star Port. I hope everyone is comfortable. The seats you are in are the latest in ergonomics. The seats are also telepathically linked to your DNA so all you have to do is think about the position you want to be in and the chair will adjust automatically. (No, Virginia, you can not put the chair in that position. This is a family tour and the chairs have been programmed to respond only to G rated positions.)

I hope everyone remembered to bring their Trans-Spacial permit. In lieu of a permit, a passport will be acceptable if it has a holographic likeness of you on it. If you do not have either, please report to the Customs Robot and he will process one for you.

Some of you have requested roomier flight suits. It is not necessary. The suits are made to accommodate to your fluctuating size. Yes, the gentle creature at the back of the line. Your question, sir? Yes, sir. The suits will accommodate both tentacles and egg sacks without any problem. However, we request that you hatch the eggs in the private compartments made available as this is a family tour and the violence involved might upset the children on the trip or the passengers with weaker stomachs.

Ladies and gentlemen and others, if you will look at the view screen stations at your seat, you will see the Twin Planet System. As you will notice, the two planets Dkr and Sonij are in the center and are orbited by thirteen moons. We are far enough away from the system at this time that the orbits of the moons look like threads creating that wispy look around the planets.

As we near Sonij, the robotic stewardess will hand out some snacks. Please tell the stewardess what planet you are from so she can give you the appropriate snacks. For those of you who are feeling adventurous and want to try out snacks from another planet or galaxy, be aware that some species eat their snacks while still alive. So please be careful and do not let the snacks loose. It is terribly hard to recapture Govesterian slime worms. Please be considerate.

We are will arrive at Sonij tomorrow. Thank you for traveling with StarBright.

image is from the Hubble Telescope website.

Prophecy of Vithan August 2

Prophecy of Vithan is coming August 2.
That is just around the corner.
As an author with a book coming out (I get shivers when I say that "I'm an Author with a book coming out") I have some interviews coming out. The first interview was with Kelly Kirch. (www.kellykirch.blogspot.com) Kelly is quite a woman, full of wit. My grandmother would say she is full of vim and vinegar. You should check out her blog. I am a bit late in telling you about my interview, so you have to check her archives and go to July 6. There is my interview.
The next interview will be with Amarinda Jones. It is on August 1st. You'll love her blog. (www.amarindajones.blogspot.com) She is quite a character. Amarinda, Kelly and another author Anny (www.annycook.blogspot.com) are having a serial story where each one of the adds a paragraph to the story. So far it has Twin brothers, chocolate, peelers, and goggles. Check it out.
In fact I have an interview with Anny Cook on August 6th. She is a woman of quite a bit of wisdom.
I have an interview, well actually my character Morgan Zephyrain has an upcoming interview with Henry, a character of Sandy Lender's. It is a roller coaster of an interview. I'm not quite sure of the date yet.
On July 31, Aug 1, Aug 2, Aug 3 I will be chatting on Yahoo Groups. So will a lot of other very talented authors.
July 31 - Coffee Time Loop 2:00PM and 10:00 PM PST(www.groups.yahoo.com/group/karenfindoutaboutnewbooks)
July 31 - Coffee Time Erotic Loop 11:00 PM PST (www.groups.yahoo.com/group/karendevinekaren)
August 1 - eBook Lovers Loop 2:00PM and 10:00 PM PST(www.groups.yahoo.com/group/eBookLove)
August 2 - League of Amazing Writers Noon and 8:00 PM PST (www.groups.yahoo.com/group/LeagueAmazingWriters)
August 3 – Romance Bistro 11:00 AM and 11:00 PM PST (www.groups.yahoo.com/group/Romance_Bistro) (it is Romance_Bistro)

Come visit with some amazingly talented authors. Celebrate my novel’s release. Get your copy of Prophecy of Vithan at www.cerridwenpress.com on August 2!

Charlene Leatherman, Prophecy of Vithan by Cerridwen Press, released August 2, 2007Defeating the villain, destroying the monster, delivering the hero, and never breaking a nail

Prophecy of Vithan August 2

Prophecy of Vithan with Cerridwen Press at www.cerridwenpress.com is coming out August 2, 2007.

Life, the Universe and Everything

Thanks to Douglas Adams for that phrase. That phrase has been my catch-all. When life is going down the tubes - it is LUAE that is making the problem. When life is great - again it is LUAE. Today is going great. Well, I am deciding to make it go great.
First: if I haven't told you yet, I have a cover. A cover for Prophecy of Vithan coming out August 2, 2007 with CerridwenPress.com. I can't post it yet, it hasn't been approved yet, but I am soooo jazzed. I think you will too.
Second: I am learning new things on the Internet. I found this site Technorati.com. It claims that I can claim my blogs (whatever claiming blogs mean) if I post this link:
Technorati Profile . Then something magical happens - well that is my story and I'm sticking with it.
Third: Don't forget to drop by Sandy Lender's blog tour on www.myspace.com/charleneleatherman on May 30th. Then be sure to come back here on June 11th for some more fun with Sandy Lender.
Fourth: I have been told today that I am a disappointment because I am not a reflection of my relative - I write fiction, not non-fiction. I like operas, museums, concerts, Shakespeare in the Park not crickets, lizards, and snakes. I have my opinions not someone else's. Well, today I decide that I am not a moon - a reflective surface - I am a star, a shining star. I may be a tiny speck in the sky, I am still true to myself not a reflection.