Is This Cool...Or What! Writer's GetAWay!

WHAT IS IT???


Traveling along Highway 59 just south of Linton, IN, several eyes have alighted upon a curiosity sitting tall in a yard along the highway. The question asked is: WHAT IS IT?

The object…a 12x12x12 foot pylon-shaped building. A pylon looks like a pyramid but with the top cut straight across instead of being pointed. What is the building used for? Answer: It’s a quiet getaway spot for area author, Ruby Moon-Houldson.

When a critical or delicate point for a work in progress has been reached then Ruby can take a few steps out of her house and seclude herself for a time in a special atmosphere that will inspire creativity for her work.

The interior is unique–that of the author’s design. It includes neon lighted accessories, glow-in-the-dark wallpaper (stars and constellations), and blacklight reflective carpeting. Much of the building materials and interior decorating supplies were purchased from local merchants–Diana’s Wall Paper, and Ross’ Floor Store to name a couple. A few specialty retailers contacted the owner and contributed items for the project seeing that it was such a unique undertaking. A special gift from Nimoy—an autographed photo print from his ‘Shekinah’ series—hangs on the south wall.

To see the building click on the following link: http://rubymoon.ning.com/video/rubys-building (or the title of this article)

The entire outer shell is covered with smooth aluminum sheeting (a product available from the Amish), and held together with stainless steel screws. Erecting the building proved to be quite a challenge for the main builder. All he had to go by was a picture and a paper model–there were no building plans to be found on the Internet or through any other building construction source.

Careful planning and several long hours went into erecting this unique building which does indeed have electricity and air conditioning. Construction of this writer’s getaway took about 5 months to complete.

Now it is not uncommon for authors to have their own unique writing hideaway. There are some writers whose “hideaway” décor includes a mausoleum look, an Egyptian type atmosphere, outer space, or a jungle scene. Every writer is unique and so is their writing space.

So if you’re ever driving past a “pylon” like building south of Linton, IN, just know that a creative mind is probably hard at work there. For those who are in the area and are curious about the building, Ruby invites you to stop by and take a peek at creativity in progress. Countless people have already stopped in for a look. The building has already housed special guests—an area Writers Group—that held a meeting within the four slanted walls. Also a television news camera crew recently spent some time within the pylon shaped building—Ruby was interviewed within her writing abode. That interview can be found by following this link: http://rubymoon.ning.com/video/my-tv-interview

Thus far Ruby had written four books within her writer’s getaway and is currently writing “More Than Angels: Once Upon a Dream” and the 10th ‘Guardian’ book inside the unique building. While hiding out within the pylon shaped building, Ruby worked on much of the soon to be released Star Trek reference/tribute book—Celebrating Trek’s 40th Anniversary.

So visit the two links above and enjoy.

Ruby Moon-Houldson

What do you think readers? Is this a cool site to write, or not????

Thanks so much, Ruby, for sharing this and responding to my request during your interview (for those who have not yet read Ruby's interview, just scroll down!!!

Glenda

Review: Night Angel - A Heartwarming, Sizzling Romance

Night Angel
By Renee Reeves
Black Velvet Seductions Publishing
ISBN: 9780980224634
252 Pages

"...the first time I saw you...with the moonlight highlighting your face and hair...you looked like an angel, and right then I knew you were the woman I wanted."

Can a book be both heart-warming...and...sizzling at the same time? You bet--Night Angel by Renee Reeves is just that!

I've read a lot of books that feature abuse; it is never easy to read. However, I believe that the more we learn about the reality of what it does to people, the more we are able to speak out against and support those who have been abused! So, first, I applaud Renee Reeves for handling an extremely sensitive issue in such a well-written manner!

Morgan never had a chance. She was romanced and wooed by a professional who never touched her intimately until the night of their marriage, when they were on their honeymoon. Richard was his name. Richard took Morgan's virginity through rape and assault. That type of abuse lasted for six years until Richard was killed in an automobile accident. We are all glad he is dead! As Morgan admits, if he hadn't been killed, she probably would have been dead because the beatings were getting worse and worse.

Nick also never had a chance. He stayed in his bed at nights listening to his father rape and beat his mother, without being able to do anything. He and Jake, his brother, were also abused. Until Jake was 17 and big enough to defend himself, but by that time, it was too late--his father had murdered his mother! And Nick had taken his revenge.

Throughout the book, the past lives of both Morgan and Nick creep into their present lives. Morgan had moved to Montana to get away and start a new life. Nick and his brother had bought a ranch using money their grandfather had left them. Fate clearly brought the two together! Because as Morgan sought and found a perfect spot to be her hideaway, it just happened to be on Nick's property; they were now neighbors!

It was seeing one of the abused horses that Nick had saved and brought to the ranch that made Morgan realize that she could perhaps trust her feelings that were growing for Nick. There just was no doubt--she was very attracted to him and Nick felt the same. But Morgan's fears from her past came unbidden, even when she had no real reason to be afraid.

It was seeing his face painted on one of Morgan's canvases that made Nick realize that he might have a chance to win Morgan's love.

I read Night Angel in a day. It is easy reading and fast, especially in some parts... Those are the sizzling parts you'll have to enjoy yourself. I've shared the heartwarming story of two individuals, hurt and alone, but still willing to find and fight for a life-long love!

Like romance novels? Then Night Angel by Renee Reeves will take you on one of the "Sensuous Journeys" that is promised on the front cover. It's a winner!

G. A. Bixler

Review: Wonderful Children's Book Series - The I Believe Bunny

The I Believe Bunny
By Tish Rabe
Thomas Nelson
ISBN: 9781400314768


I am so pleased to be able to highly recommend The I Believe Bunny by Tish Rabe and illustrated by Frank Endersby!

The book is hard-back and beautifully, colorfully illustrated on each and every page. Using the scripture, Philippians 4:13—I can do everything through him who gives me strength—Rabe has weaved a poem that begins and weaves it way through all pages.

First telling about the I Believe Bunny who lives in a land hard to find, we meet him on a day when it is raining and Bunny’s ears have turned down from the stress! The butterflies ask for him to come to find a place where it’s dry, but Bunny thought he should stay, even though seemingly stuck to the ground!

And surely God planned that he should be there, for he was able to hear someone calling for help. There in a stream was a very small mouse, caught in strong waters and not knowing how to swim.

Bunny knew he must try to save mouse but with the river so deep he was afraid, so he too called for help. He pulled a stick off from a tree and then bowed to pray for strength to set the mouse free.

Parents, grandparents—anybody that has a child who will climb up on your lap and say, “read this book to me,” well, in my opinion, this first book in a series promises to be not only one that all children will enjoy because of the bright colors, small animals, and rhyming words of the poem, but will be a perfect example to help that child come to know that, with God, all things are possible...

And if you’re like me, when you finish reading to your child, you’ll have to admit that you, too, were thoroughly delighted with The I Believe Bunny by Tish Rabe! It would be beautiful as a gift...but, hey, it’s always time to read a great book! This is one of those must reads that will bring you and some special child together for a precious time.


G. A. Bixler

Review: Second in Series More Exciting! Young Readers Must-Read

Rescuing Seneca Crane
A Kari + Lucas Mystery
By Susan Runholt
Viking
ISBN: 9780670062911
288 Pages


Rescuing Seneca Crane, Susan Runholt’s second book in the Kari + Lucas Mystery series is even more exciting than her first book (The Mystery of the Third Lucretia)! And Kari and Lucas are on their own to solve a kidnapping!

The “Gleesome Threesome,” Kari and her mother, Gillian, and Lucas, who got that name after starting to travel together, are now in Scotland, where Seneca Crane, a gifted, young girl of 15, would play solo with the Orchestra Pacifica.

Seneca had been very sheltered by virtue of her talent as well as her tutored schooling, so when she met Kari and Lucas, she was thrilled to be able to do things that other girls did, like stay overnight together! During every free moment Seneca had, the girls were together so that by the time the rehearsals were over and the first concert was to take place, it was quite natural for Seneca’s parents to invite Kari and Lucas to stay with Seneca while Kari’s mother took a short trip to visit with an old friend.

Through a series of small changes--like Kari leaving her mother’s phone in Seneca’s room, Kari and Lucas committing to baby-sit for the parents of a small boy they had met, and Gillian’s friend coming into town earlier than expected which allowed an earlier start—resulted in Kari and Lucas being alone after Seneca was kidnapped!

Kari and Lucas continuously tried email to reach Gillian, but one of the kidnappers had stolen Kari’s phone and was routinely texting to Gillian that everything was fine!

But it wasn’t!

Using their intelligence, logic, and the clues they had, Kari and Lucas figured out that Seneca was being held captive in a castle in the north of Scotland. Knowing that the note left about Seneca had warned against contacting the police, Kari and Lucas felt they had no other choice—they set out to rescue Seneca—and they did!

But the whole trip was dangerous and though they finally discovered and saw that Seneca was held captive, high in an old castle, there was no way to reach her because their were guards watching and waiting. Until after much thinking, Kari came up with a plan to use one of her more unusual skills!

Once Seneca has been kidnapped, the book is very fast-paced and action filled. Both Seneca and the little boy, Parker, both help in getting the girls started in the right direction by providing clues to who is involved in the kidnapping. What they find out, though, forces them to act totally on their own, at least until they meet Robbie and Jamie—two very cute “older” guys for whom the girls quickly develop crushes. Fortunately, the boys saw them as younger sisters and were worried enough to help them when the final crisis occurs!

Readers will learn a little about the extensive practice, rehearsals and performance activities of concert pianists, but this book, the kidnapping has the biggest, exciting part! Don’t miss Rescuing Seneca Crane, Second Kari + Lucas Mystery, by Susan Runholt. What a winner!

G. A. Bixler

Review: Susan Runholt Introduces Kari + Lucas Mystery Series for Ages 10-14

The Mystery of the Third Lucretia
A Kari + Lucas Mystery
By Susan Runholt
Puffin Books
ISBN: 9780142413388
278 Pages

One advantage of being a book reviewer is that you can legitimately read books that may be for the “younger” reader. For me, a good mystery is a good mystery and I’m going to enjoy it! And Susan Runholt’s new series is not only good—it’s amazingly fresh and entertaining!

Gillian Sundgren travels to cover the arts and cultural world for magazines. Her daughter Kari and Kari’s best friend, Lucas Stickney, have the opportunity to travel with her on some trips. Both Kari and Lucas are 14 and have a real interest in developing their artistic skills. In fact, it was while taking a summer class at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts where they first saw “him.”

He was there at the Art Institute. They had gone into the Rembrandt room for a short tour when they saw this older man painting in front of a special exhibit that was taking place showing Rembrandt’s two “Lucretia” paintings together—one had been loaned by another museum for this special show. Both Kari and Lucas especially liked the two paintings and the story behind them, since Lucretia was a young girl when she committed suicide. Curiosity compelled the girls to see what the old man was working on, but when Kari approached, he loudly proclaimed, “Go a-way!”

Well, we could say that the man really did have a right to say that, but for Kari, it was downright rude and she remembered the slight! Especially when she heard it again as another artist used the same phrase to a younger child—only this time, Kari heard it when they were in London!

Kari and Lucas make a good team—Lucas has a photographic memory and remains calm in most situations; Kari has intuitive feelings along with her artistic abilities. So when Kari had thought there was something suspicious about the man, Lucas used her photographic memory to verify that “both” men were the same—and they just had to find out what he was working on, knowing that it probably had something to do with art forgery!

These two girls used disguises, cameras, and sketches to gather information and even go into dangerous situations to support their growing evidence. Once they did, they got Kari’s mother involved...but the situation was getting more and more dangerous—for all of them!

Readers will quickly declare this book a “Nancy Drew” type; however, the inclusion of a considerable amount of information about the cultural world in which they travel makes the series a learning experience as well! A must-read for ages 10-14 (and above, for great mystery lovers!)

G. A. Bixler

Talking With Author, Trekkie and Friend Ruby Moon-Houldson!

Ruby, thanks so much for being my guest spotlight author! I hope you don't mind that, at least today, I've used my favorite photo of you when you were a child! It reminds me of our working together through the More Than Angels Series. I'll be changing it as time goes by!

Right off, I'd like to ask some questions that I know will be of interest to your readers. Ruby, when did you start writing?

Thanks, Glenda, for your welcome and for spotlighting me. I feel like I've been writing all my life, but, it was in high school – grade 9. It wasn’t until my junior year that I wrote my first tiny short story that caught my teacher’s attention. She took me under her wing so to speak and guided me in writing my first Star Trek book.

When did you know that you wanted to be a writer?
About 12 years ago

You know, that's really not very long, considering the number of books you've already written. And, if I remember correctly, it was just last year that you were awarded your doctorate! I admire you so much! Tell me, Where do your ideas and subjects come from?

Thanks again, Glenda. My ideas come from what’s forming in my head—I imagine how people or imaginary beings could act or be different. I see real life situations and then incorporate them into a book (Ex: GPS systems in cars, ID chip, etc.). For instance, I have written a nursing guide book and a parent’s guide book related to Internet Chat. Ideas come from dreams. I listen to the news. I visit places of interest.

Did writing come natural to you or is it something that you had/have to work on?

It comes natural for I have a great imagination and a head full of ideas.

Does your writing come from your life or from other people?
Some of it comes from my life experiences (I have written health related books, a parenting book), and some comes from dreams or just random thoughts.

Did you go to school for writing?
No. But I have taken English Comp classes and Writing classes while pursuing my Masters and PhD degree. I now teach an “Intro to Fiction Writing” workshop.

Have you always had the desire to write?
No. My first love has been teaching (I am a college professor. I teach psychology, sociology, and nursing. I’ve earned my PhD in Psychology).

What made you want to be a writer?

I had so many stories in my head that I had to find a way to get them out. I set the stories to paper, people read them, liked them, and then one thing led to another with the stories becoming books. I wished to share my tales with others. Also, I write for Roddenberry and for PlanetXpo (an entertainment company in CA). They always give me great writing challenges.

Did you ever think that your writing would get you to where you are today?
No. I travel across the United States for book signings and for guest appearances. I’ve been to Hollywood, CA several times and have met so many famous and wonderful people. Meeting my hero (from childhood and including to the present time) has been one of the greatest, most magical things to ever happen to me. My hero is Leonard Nimoy.

Ahhh, yes, Mr. Nimoy! It was he that brought you and me together when I first raised the question about your character in a book. And we both announced we were Star Trek fans, of course, you much more than I, in reality! So, Ruby, who were the people or person that inspired you to write?
My English teacher in high school; a good friend of mine, Leonard Nimoy (Spock on Star Trek); and DeForest Kelley (Dr. McCoy on Star Trek).

How many different drafts of a manuscript do you go through before you publish?
10+ It seems to never be truly as perfect as I want it to be, but there needs to be a stopping point to self editing. Give it up when you thinks it’s the best you can make it and send it on.

Ruby, I'm thrilled to have you say that, especially as more and more writers decide to self-publish. It is so important that writers spend the time to first write their book...and then spend time editing and proofreading! From a reader's standpoint, nothing provokes me more than being stopped in the middle of a sentence to figure out what is being said because there are either editing or proofreading issues that disrupt the flow!

I already know the answer to this question, but am going to ask it for other readers. What has been your favorite story/subject that you have written about and why?

Of course, you know! My favorite is known as the “More Than Angels” series. It has a lot of my own life incorporated into it as well as my hero’s. I can identify with the main female character, Thia. This book has received rave reviews, high recognition, and awards.

And the honors are well deserved!

A second favorite book series I’ve written is the ‘GUARDIAN’ series (a vampire/romance series). It has been well accepted all across the United States (over 5 million readers) and the first book has even been translated into an India language--Tamil. The film company, SONY, provided picture stills for the 6th book, etc. S. King, a New York Book Reviewer reviewed the series and gave a favorable report. The ‘Guardian’ series has been a great selling series that has caused me to receive over 800 e-mails a day with people commenting about the story and the characters. I like to write this series because I can do just about anything I want to with the characters, and I have become attached to the characters seeing that I have written so many books about them. I have watched the characters grow and develop. The Guardian series now has its own music soundtrack CD called “Night Sins.”

And, readers, I have just been asked to review this series! How cool is that! Look for my reviews in the near future! Ruby, I know you have a family and busy work life--What kind of environment do you prefer when you’re writing?
My bedroom is useful with inspirational music playing. I also like to ride around in the car (with music on). I get a lot of ideas that way, too. I now have my own building created especially for me. It’s very quiet.

Wow, a special building--you'll have to tell us more about that sometime soon! But, now, for our readers, What tips do you have for aspiring writers?
Take plenty of English grammar and comp classes. Have someone look over your work and edit it. Start in as soon as possible at finding an agent because it takes a lot of time. I have an agent in New York.

Ruby, what is your favorite part and least favorite part about being a writer?
My favorite part is the travel, getting to meet interesting people (and famous people), and also seeing the finished work in my hands. The least favorite part is delving through all the research that is involved.

Where do you see yourself and your writing in 10 years?
I’ll probably be on book number 50 (I’m on book 35 now), and still be traveling across the US conducting book signings.

And I'll still love reading your books, I am sure! Who knows what futuristic sci-fi you'll get into next! But, tell me, do you ever get stuck in writing, that is, writer's block?

No, fortunately, I have never had writer’s block yet. I may "worry" over a certain part of a story, but that is more editing issues.

You mentioned research earlier as being your least favorite part of writing, and yet I know that it is a very important part. How do you become knowledgeable about the topic you want to write about?

I look for information online. I conduct interviews. I tag along with people and watch them at work. I go to libraries and look up information. I travel to places I am going to write about and I look at the area with my own eyes (I’ve been to England – Stonehenge, California, Nevada, Canada, etc.)

Has your storyline/subject ever changed direction after you have begun writing it?

Yes, many times. I first create an outline of the story. I then begin to write it. As I write, I may add things or even decide to take parts away and not include certain scenes into the story at all. Sometimes the characters take over and I allow them the opportunity to do so—up to a point.


Have you ever wanted to quit? What did you do when that thought struck you?
Yes. I then panicked because I still have stories in my head that need to be told, and I have stories outlined on paper that need to be made into the final book form. I really need to run out of stories so that I can finally rest – but I don’t know when that will be.
Well, I hope you don't mind my saying that I hope it will be a long time from now...as long as you stop to "smell the roses" in life as well...So, What are you working on now?

It seems like we say "stop and smell the roses" to each other a lot, friend!

I am working on the 10th book of the ‘GUARDIAN’ series. I am also working on ‘More Than Angels: Once Upon a Dream’ (3rd in the series). I have been working on a book titled ‘Home Sweet Homeless’ (which much of my research was conducted by watching homeless people and by my traveling to Biloxi, Mississippi and New Orleans for two weeks after Hurricane Katrina hit). I am working on another Star Trek reference book.

What projects do you have for the future?
Possibly more “GUARDIAN” series books (only a thought at the moment), a child’s book, and a diary book.

What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment to date?

My “More Than Angels” book series—they have been nominated for Oprah’s Book Club and have won the National Indie Excellence Award for ‘Best Fiction’. They have also received several great reviews. I’m writing the 3rd book in the series now. Also, my “Guardian” series now having its own music soundtrack.

Do you belong to any interest groups?
I’m a member of the Trek Writer’s Guild, a member of the Indiana Literacy Coalition, the Greene County Speaker’s Bureau, and the Greene County Writers Group. I’m President of “The Moo

Promotional photo of the cast of Star Trek during the third season (1968–1969). From left to right: James Doohan, Walter Koenig, DeForest Kelley, Majel Barrett, William Shatner, Nichelle Nichols, Leonard Nimoy, and George Takei. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

n-Houldson Foundation” which provides assistance to up-and-coming writers and to nursing students. I also serve on the Carnegie Heritage and Arts Center Board as Secretary—I’m also one of the founders of this organization.

Ruby, how about sharing more specifics about where and how fans can find you!

FYI: Also, writers/authors usually have a website where readers may go to view what books an author has written and to see what is coming out. Mine is www.publishedfictionauthor.com or www.rubymoonhouldson.com . I also have stuff on my MY SPACE, along with videos. I’m working with someone to set up my own page at www.rubymoon.ning.com.

Books I’ve written (or are in the works):

The ‘Guardian’ series

Guardian of an Immortal Soul
Guardians of the Immortal Realms
Guardians of Immortal Humanity
Guardians of Immortal Life
Guardians of Immortal Destiny
The Guardian (reviewed by Stephen King – New York Reviewer)
Guardians of Immortal Unity
Guardians of Immortal Truth
Guardians of Immortal Faith (coming soon)
Guardians of Immortal Night (coming soon)

Dragon’s Fire, Insanity’s Reign
The Man Within
The Mark of Cain
Romancing the Professor
Dark Shadows

More Than Angels: Once Upon A Broken Heart (reviewed by J. Deveraux and reader nominated for Oprah’s Book Club)
More Than Angels: Once Upon A Lifetime (National award winner for Best Fiction)
More Than Angels: Once Upon a Dream (coming soon)

Bought With a Price
Home Sweet Homeless (currently writing)
Your Child’s Secret Language
Smart Tool for Nursing School
For Only a Year (Star Trek)
Ni Var (Star Trek)
A Tribute to Spock
A Tribute to James Doohan ‘Scotty’
A Tribute to Walter Koenig
A Tribute to Nichelle Nichols
A Tribute to George Takei
Celebrating Trek’s 40th Anniversary
Stargate Atlantis – A Reference
Diary of a Moon Child (in the works)
Coin – The Imaginary Friend (currently in the works)
Man Made (working on this)

Ruby Moon-Houldson
rubymoon@node1internet.com
rubydiane2000@yahoo.com

Ruby, thanks so much for sharing with us. May you future be full of ideas and adventure!