Virtual Theatre Performance from The Belles of Whitechapel ~ The Victims of Jack the Ripper Speak, written by Wayne Miller/ Directed by Nina Soden
Actress Jacinda Rose Swinehart-Johnson
JACINDA ROSE SWINEHART is a professional actress, who has worked all over the country since the year 2000. She owns The Rocket City Sweethearts, Huntsville’s Premiere Vintage Entertainment Trio, singing the hits of the 1940’s, 50’s and 60’s! JACINDA currently works for Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theatre and Academy as a Teaching Artist, and as an Actress at The Intuitive Planetarium at The US Space and Rocket Center.
When asked her thoughts on Martha Tabram’s monologue, Valerie had this to say: Martha is heartbreaking. She is a perfect example of how life can truly get the better of you, and that your demons do not care what you want. If you don’t have control, you will be a victim to your surroundings, regardless of how many people love you. She was a true pleasure to play, down to every absolute wonderful flaw that made her human. Her life, wasn’t wasted. I was honored to tell her story.
When asked about the process of performing virtual theatre, she said: This pandemic, this new world, has had an effect on me, as an actor. I have been so focused on everything else… My family, the world, the virus, death. My ability to focus has been effected. I find that I haven’t been able to memorize as I normally do, which is disturbing. This is a new era. I am trying to settle in the fact that things will be dramatically different while also denying that things will not be different and won’t change. Our whole world, (entertainment, performance), is drastically changing… Without an answer in the immediate future. I am thankful to be able to create in this type of venue… For without it, I am not.
A Note from the Director
As a writer, I can appreciate every word Wayne put into this script. His research and dedication to his writing did these women proud. As an actress, I hope to one day play all the roles so I can truly connect with each of them on an emotional level. As a director, I am both honored and humbled that Wayne would trust me with this production. I have loved working with each of these actresses and believe that in the short time we had together (2 weeks start to finish) each and every one of them have given a beautiful performance. ~ Nina Soden
WAYNE MILLER is the owner and creative director of EVIL CHEEZ PRODUCTIONS and is the Grand High Poobah of CHEEZISM, the movement he founded (it isn’t organized enough to be called a religion, besides which it isn’t religious) dedicated to providing audiences with the finest in entertainment options on the page and for the stage. (On the big screen, too, if Spielberg ever returns any of his phone calls.) Wayne has been writing stories literally since before he learned his alphabet—he drew pictures. After languishing in the nether-regions of the publishing industry for years, working as an acquisitions editor for a literary agency, he chose, as an experiment, to combine his passion for writing with his hobby of Theatre, and in the process, by accident and Providence, discovered his life’s purpose: to be a showman.
Describing himself as a cross between Edgar Allan Poe and P.T. Barnum, Miller is a devotee of Ed Wood, the “worst director of all time!” who inspires Wayne due to his unflappable dedication to his muse and unrestrainable creative drive.
Wayne Miller and Tanya Miller of Evil Cheez Productions for allowing me the honor of producing and directing this amazing play. Through his script, Wayne has done a wonderful job of bringing these women back to life, even if just for a few minutes, to tell their story. Make sure you check out Evil Cheez online and learn about their upcoming productions.
Theatre Huntsville for letting us use The Studio Theatre space at Lowe Mill and for providing the professional lighting design. You can find them, and their upcoming productions, online by clicking HERE or on Facebook.
Please like, share, subscribe, and comment so more people can share in this virtual theatre experience.
To read the actresses comments about their characters, click on the links below and you’ll be taken to the individual posts!
Virtual Theatre Performance from The Belles of Whitechapel ~ The Victims of Jack the Ripper Speak, written by Wayne Miller/ Directed by Nina Soden
Actress Valerie Clemons
Valerie Clemons loves live theatre, and is eager to be a part of this new experience of virtual theatre! Whether she is playing the lead on stage, or pulling a curtain backstage, Valerie loves being a part of helping transport folks from their worries, for just a couple of hours. Thank you, Nina, for this opportunity to bring the words of Annie to life. Valerie lives in Albertville with her favorite canine, RobertAnne.
When asked her thoughts on Annie Millwood’s monologue, Valerie had this to say:
I feel that Annie Millwood wanted so much more from life that what she ended up with. She was so happy to have begun a life as the proud wife of a decorated soldier. Being Nicky’s wife was her identity, and she was shattered when his death left her alone and penniless. But Annie was a fighter, and although she was devastated and never moved past her loss, she held her head high, and did whatever she had to do, in order to survive.
I admire Annie’s strength. She faced such humiliation and degradation, and still felt she had some dignity. The fact that her death is not acknowledged as an official “Ripper” murder upsets her; she is almost jealous and offended that she went unnoticed. She wasn’t invisible in life, and she doesn’t want to be invisible in death.
When asked about the process of performing virtual theatre, she said: I had never attempted a monologue before this experience, and in all honesty, I had significant anxiety about it. Ok, pretty much full-fledged panic attacks once or twice. I quickly realized that learning 20 paragraphs, completely on my own, with no other actors to react to or even rehearse with, blasted me far from my comfort zone. Turns out my dog didn’t give notes or feedback, which was disappointing.
And only 2 weeks to prepare? Eeeek!
However, I ended up THOROUGHLY enjoying the experience, despite the anxiety. Having such a condensed window of study time forced me to focus, and I appreciated the concentration. I do believe I still prefer having a stage full of other actors to respond to. And live audiences!! The energy emitted from them revs me as an actor.
I was honored to have been chosen to bring Annie’s words to life. I hope viewers enjoy the story as much as I enjoyed sharing it with them.
A Note from the Director
As a writer, I can appreciate every word Wayne put into this script. His research and dedication to his writing did these women proud. As an actress, I hope to one day play all the roles so I can truly connect with each of them on an emotional level. As a director, I am both honored and humbled that Wayne would trust me with this production. I have loved working with each of these actresses and believe that in the short time we had together (2 weeks start to finish) each and every one of them have given a beautiful performance. ~ Nina Soden
WAYNE MILLER is the owner and creative director of EVIL CHEEZ PRODUCTIONS and is the Grand High Poobah of CHEEZISM, the movement he founded (it isn’t organized enough to be called a religion, besides which it isn’t religious) dedicated to providing audiences with the finest in entertainment options on the page and for the stage. (On the big screen, too, if Spielberg ever returns any of his phone calls.) Wayne has been writing stories literally since before he learned his alphabet—he drew pictures. After languishing in the nether-regions of the publishing industry for years, working as an acquisitions editor for a literary agency, he chose, as an experiment, to combine his passion for writing with his hobby of Theatre, and in the process, by accident and Providence, discovered his life’s purpose: to be a showman.
Describing himself as a cross between Edgar Allan Poe and P.T. Barnum, Miller is a devotee of Ed Wood, the “worst director of all time!” who inspires Wayne due to his unflappable dedication to his muse and unrestrainable creative drive.
Wayne Miller and Tanya Miller of Evil Cheez Productions for allowing me the honor of producing and directing this amazing play. Through his script, Wayne has done a wonderful job of bringing these women back to life, even if just for a few minutes, to tell their story. Make sure you check out Evil Cheez online and learn about their upcoming productions.
Theatre Huntsville for letting us use The Studio Theatre space at Lowe Mill and for providing the professional lighting design. You can find them, and their upcoming productions, online by clicking HERE or on Facebook.
Please like, share, subscribe, and comment so more people can share in this virtual theatre experience.
To read the actresses comments about their characters, click on the links below and you’ll be taken to the individual posts!
As an avid reader of fiction (and an author who one day hopes to make the list) I LOVE-LOVE-LOVE checking out the New York Times Best Seller list. So, here it is… The independently ranked top 10 Young Adult selections for May 2020!
If you’ve read any of the TOP 10 selections and recommend them, please comment below and let me know. If you see something you like and plan to pick up a copy, you can do so by clicking on the cover image, the title or the [BUY IT HERE] button.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
When you purchase a book using a link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission.All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
As an avid reader of fiction (and an author who one day hopes to make the list) I LOVE-LOVE-LOVE checking out the New York Times Best Seller list. So, here it is… The independently ranked top 10 Fiction selections for May 2020!
If you’ve read any of the TOP 10 selections and recommend them, please comment below and let me know. If you see something you like and plan to pick up a copy, you can do so by clicking on the cover image, the title or the [BUY IT HERE] button.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
When you purchase a book using a link on this site, I earn an affiliate commission.All commission earnings go back into funding my books; editing, cover design, etc.
Stacy Eaton is a USA Today Bestselling author and began her writing career in October of 2010. Stacy took an early retirement from law enforcement after over fifteen years of service in 2016, with her last three years in investigations and crime scene investigation to write full time.
Stacy resides in southeastern Pennsylvania with her husband, who works in law enforcement, and her teen daughter. She also has a son who is currently serving in the United States Navy, and two grandchildren.
When Stacy is not writing, she enjoys photography and relaxing on the beach.
Detective Natasha Foster will put her job on the line to prove her gut feeling is dead on.
When Detective Foster responds to the scene of a crash, she finds the female passenger dead, a bag full of money in the back seat and a body in the trunk. It is only when the driver, whom she nicknames Jay, wakes up with no memory that she must go with her instincts and continue the investigation in a way that was never taught.
Jay finds himself lost, but drawn to the beautiful detective who steps above and beyond the call of duty. His need to know if he was a victim or the criminal pushes him to try and recall what happened and who he is. With the pull of a trigger, Jay’s memory will suddenly return and with it, the terrible truth.
Detective Sergeant Mackenzie McAllister leads a team of police investigators. When the new kid, Drew Bradley, joins the squad Mack is bound by duty to show him the ropes. The chemistry between them is immediate, but with Mack being twelve years older, she fights becoming entangled with the young sexy detective.
Drew enters the unit, not only to help with the investigation they are conducting, but to find out what is really going on inside the walls of the unit. Working with the intense and strict Sergeant Mack is invigorating, but between the need to protect her and his second shield, he is at a loss and falling hard.
Together they will uncover the evil from within, and try to deny the passions that rage between them. Who in her unit is trying to keep her from finding out the truth? Who will take a life that will draw them closer? And what are the secrets hidden behind the shield?
Six weeks after the biggest case of her life, Sgt. MacKenzie “Mack” McCallister receives information that changes her future. With the man she loves on the opposite side of the country, Mack isn’t sure she can do it on her own.
Special Agent Andrew Cooper is dealing with the hardest thing he has ever had to face, and in order to do it, he must shelve his feelings for Mack and pray that she will be there when he returns.
As time passes, Mack focuses her attention on the serial killer investigation and forces thoughts of Drew out of her mind. When emotions are running high, Drew returns, and everything in Mack’s world is turned upside down.
It will fall to Drew who will figure out the missing pieces of the serial murder investigation, but will he be able to do it before he loses Mack forever?
There is a place that lies between heaven and Earth, it is called The Realm. Within this place, the Guards of Peace, known as Garda Síochána, learn to guide and protect the ones that live below until they are called home.
Officer Corey Hamilton is dedicated to being the best that she can be, in uniform and out. Her loving nature, compassionate thoughts, and warrior strength make her the perfect candidate to join the Garda Síochána and spend her eternity protecting and guiding others.
Just before Corey dies in a line-of-duty accident, she meets Officer Mitchell O’Reilly. Her feelings for him may change her destiny, but not for the better, as she falls in love with this married man. Brock, Corey’s personal Garda, will bring her home to The Realm and attempt to train her for her future, even while she still fights for her past.
Will Brock be able to direct Corey down the right path, or will she cross the line and fall from grace? Join Corey, Mitchell, and Brock for an emotional and heart-pounding adventure that is sure to make you wonder if angels are really guiding us in our everyday lives.
Jacquelyn Liveon is a small-time detective who loves her job, but hates attention. When she steps in front of heartthrob silver screen actor, Ryan Palmer, to stop a gunman, she finds herself dangling in to the public spotlight. Ryan can’t believe a woman would save him and not want more from his glamorous life. Could the words “I Fear No Evil” that are printed on her shirt be more correct than he thought?
When Jacquelyn goes undercover, she gets submerged into a world she never wanted to understand. How does she deal with the threats against Ryan? What happens with a major event flips the movie set upside down and injures people that they care about?
Join Jacquelyn and Ryan as they act out the relationship for the assignment, and try to survive the secrets, the threats and the explosive relationship that burns behind the scenes.
The Chosen (SECTOR C Series Book 1) by Nina Soden Genre: Urban Fantasy
Set in a futuristic dystopian where society is governed by a council of vampires and lycanthropes, selection students are sheltered and raised in a deceptively utopian world. Strict rules are imposed to control population growth, education, and even personal interactions with other members of the Sector, all in the name of safety. When ‘A’ comes of age, she like all youth throughout Sector C and her selection classmates aren’t sent out into the world to find jobs, make money and lead happy carefree lives. They are forced to endure the rigorous physical and mental testing of Selection Week before choosing their destiny or being forced into a fate far worse. Those that make it out alive are announced as sector residence, given a position within the society, and allotted all the privileges of their chosen “culture.” However, when your only choices are vampirism, lycanthropy, breeder, blood donor, or banishment to the Wastelands, what choice do you really have? Suspenseful, intense, passionate, and awash in paranormal delights, Sector C captures the enchantment and mysteries of the supernatural world and the power of friendship.
The Hunted (SECTOR C Series Book 2) by Nina Soden Genre: Urban Fantasy
In the future, most of the world is governed by a council of vampires and lycanthropes. Sector residents are offered the freedom to live as they desire provided they stay and abide by the laws handed down. After being jolted awake by the blaring screech of the sector alarm, Zelina is dragged from her bed, gagged, and tied to a chair. Confronted with the brutal murder of one of her former classmates, she realizes that all eyes are on her as the primary suspect. Whether she was involved or not doesn’t matter. In the eyes of most sector residents, and most Council Members, Zelina is already a pariah—feared for the powers she will certainly come to possess. For she is the first human known to have both vampire and lycanthrope blood flowing through her veins. Zelina will find herself on a gripping adventure that will take her beyond the borders she’s known all her life in an attempt to save those she loves—and herself from becoming The Hunted.
The Bridge (SECTOR C Series Book 3) by Nina Soden Genre: Urban Fantasy
Change is happening all around Zelina and with it a prophesy is revealed. Is Zelina the key to unlocking a new way of existing on earth? What will she do when she discovers the true monsters of Sector C – the darkness that feeds off of the fear and the unknowing. Will she be able to suspend her own disbelief about what is possible and secure a new future? With the help of Merick, a motley crew of defectors, and a host of unexpected allies, Zelina bridges space and time in an attempt to bring forth a new future for all sentient beings. Join Zelina, Merick, and the others as they discover the power of the prophesy and their parts in setting their stagnant world free.
I have always been creative, be it art, theatre, film – anything but singing – you don’t want to hear that! I earned her bachelor’s degree in Theatre and Military Science from EMU where I spent most of my time either on stage, rappelling down buildings, or working one of three jobs. After college, I moved to Los Angeles, like so many other want-to-be actors, in pursuit of my dreams. I worked to pay the bills… but my love was acting and I was actually somewhat successful, mostly in commercials and independent films and I had a great time doing it.
In 2008, after some major life changes, I self-published her first book PRIVATE WORDS UNSPOKEN, a compilation of poetry. Since then, my dreams have gotten bigger and I would like to think my storytelling ability has gotten better. I have done everything from secretarial work to business development to being the Director of a private preschool. I have fired an M16, jumped out of a C130, and given birth – TWICE – but I always return to my art.
Though I’ll forever be a Michigan girl at heart, I now live in the South with my husband and two beautiful children. If I’m not working on my latest story, you can find me lounging with a good book, playing with my kids, or indulging in my unhealthy addiction to Starbucks coffee.
Since I’m participating in my own series blog tour, I thought it might be fun to have a Q&A. So, if you have any questions for me about the books, my writing style, or just being an author, let me know in the comments below. I’d love to start a dialogue.
Chelsea Falin is the 25 year old independent author of well over ten titles. She began writing with the intent to publish in 2006, at age 16, and finally published in 2009, at age 19. Chelsea writes in a variety of genres, including but not limited to: romance, young adult, comedy, cooking, poetry, and dramatic fiction. Professionally, Chelsea is also a freelance blog/article writer, web designer, and book blogger.
In her personal life, Chelsea is the mother of a six year old daughter. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, fishing, hiking, biking, traveling, and spending time with her friends or family.
Willie and Babette have long, long been shielded from their own culture and heritage by their mother. When circumstances change, the girls are thrown into what they were once shielded from – only to find it is nothing like they once believed.
While Babette adjusts easily, Willie finds herself much more hesitant. While she struggles to find her true self, Willie is forced to learn she is not the only one suffering from “Less Than Humble Beginnings.”
“Try to remember everyone here has their demons, but we put those demons to good use. Make ourselves better, stronger, wiser.” – Jack
Willie, despite a rough start, has become immersed in the culture she should have been born into. As she grows in her own knowledge of her ancestral roots, she also grows in who she is as a person. All things are now within her reach, and all she must do is put forth a little effort. With all of this in mind, Willie has decided to dedicate herself towards her own ‘Personal Growth.’
“Our heritage might be bloody, but that’s no reason not to be proud!” -Spike
‘Personal Growth’ is the second installment in the fairly popular indie series, Growing Roots. It is the sequel to ‘Less Than Humble Beginnings.’ Here is what people have said about the series:
“The characters are believable and realistic.”
“Chelsea used concise descriptions of her characters which made it very easy to imagine their interactions.”
“Chelsea Falin is a great story-teller. With her clear descriptions of the characters, settings and dialogue, it was not difficult for me to imagine the characters and to picture every scene. With her excellent weaving of words, the world of Willie came alive as if I’m watching a movie.”
“Being a teenager is never easy, and Willie’s internal struggles were easy to relate to.”
Great Strides (Growing Roots Book 3) by Chelsea Falin
Willie has finally found her father, and he’s welcomed her with open arms. Now she must forge a relationship with the man she never even knew was alive. It isn’t just him, however, Willie must also find out how she fits in with her step-mother and half-siblings. Left in Alabama with no close-in-age peers, Willie makes great strides in finding out who she is as an individual without a group of close friends to rely on.
Alabama offers many firsts for Willie. The most notable in her own mind is her first relationship. There are other firsts in store, however, and a whole new cast of characters to get to know. How will Willie handle this newest experience? Will she handle it in the mature the way she has always handled change? Or will this be the point in which Willie loses herself?
“Genetics are a tricky business at times, and you just never know what you’re going to get when you throw two ancestry’s together.” -Willie’s Mamaw
Living a “normal” life doesn’t always mean that things will always be good. Bad things happen to even the best of people, and this is a life lesson Willie must now learn when tragedy strikes her close-knit group of friends.
As she continues to grow and change, Willie knows that she is far from the girl who arrived in Oklahoma little over a year ago. She’s growing, changing, and working on putting the pieces together in her life – just as her friends struggle to do the same.
“You never know, Willie. Death doesn’t discriminate by age or gender or social status. It’s one of the few things that doesn’t care. When it comes for you, it comes. It could be today, tomorrow, or a hundred years from now, but when your time is up, it’s up. There’s nothing you can do to change that.”-Dakota
Praise for the ‘Growing Roots Series’:
“a great lesson in the way life can change at any time”
“an eye-opener for teenagers and older adults alike”
“Chelsea Falin is a great story-teller. With her clear descriptions of the characters, settings and dialogue, it was not difficult for me to imagine the characters and to picture every scene.”
Would you like a chance to win a free $10 Amazon Gift Card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
My arrival home two days before hadn’t been everything I’d hoped. Oh, everyone was excited to see me, but I felt the void of Jack and Spike tremendously. They hadn’t made it back for my homecoming because they’d had to work. I idly wondered whether they’d always have to work now. With their tech school starting up soon, there wouldn’t be any time for a silly sixteen-year-old girl like me.
I couldn’t let myself drown in self-pity. I knew that statement was wrong. Jack, Spike, and Dakota had purposefully waited for me to arrive home before they threw their big house party. Johnny had told me earlier the party would be this Saturday night, and we (along with Lee) would crash at Jack’s new place. Aunt Janie was okay with that because it meant we wouldn’t drive home drunk. I was certain she trusted the older guys to make sure nothing happened to us.
Buck and Takoda had gotten their own place, which was where I headed now. The new place was only a twenty-minute walk, according to my cousins.
I hadn’t called to tell Buck or Takoda I was coming but was eager to get out of the house for a bit. Tiny baby Levi, while adorable, was what Aunt Janie called a “colicky” baby. All I knew was that he screamed for hours on end, and when he slept, the whole house tiptoed around him. I’d asked Johnny and Lee if they wanted to go, but they’d been working on a car project. They were trying to keep up the shade tree business Jack had started while he was gone at school.
When I reached the right area, filled with small homes on small plots, I began to worry I wouldn’t know which house was the right one. I hadn’t had the forethought to ask Johnny or Lee if they knew the house number. I didn’t have to worry long, however, because I soon saw a long, lean form waving from two houses down. As I walked closer, Takoda hollered “Hey, little one!”
I began walking up a short, cracked walkway leading to the front of the house. “Hi, Takoda.”
“I didn’t know you were back yet.”
I smiled, nodding. “Yeah, I got back two days ago. Things have been kind of crazy at the house since I returned, so I came hunting for your new house.” I paused and looked around. “Is Buck here?”
Takoda shook his head. “No. He’s usually off today, too, but he called in to cover a shift. It’s just me.” He grinned lopsidedly. “You’re not still afraid of being alone with me, are you?”
I laughed and shook my head. “No. I think I’m over that.”
Takoda smiled broadly. “Good, then come up here and have a seat.” He patted beside him. As I moved up the steps I saw it was a cheap metal glider meant to seat two. I sat a little hesitantly, but Takoda didn’t seem to notice. “So, tell me about your summer. How did you get along with your dad and other family, little one?”
I sighed. “Do you have to call me little one? I’m not that little.”
Takoda gave a half-smile. “I think we’ve gone over this before.” I didn’t say anything but noticed his eyes flickered up and down my frame. I felt a little self-conscious, and the feeling increased when he added, “No. I guess you’re not so little anymore. You’ve changed this summer.”
“How so?” I regretted the question almost immediately as I looked at the uncomfortable look on Takoda’s broad, friendly face.
“Ah… well, I couldn’t help notice you’re leaner and curvier. Your hair is a little different, too, and I think you may have grown half an inch.” Takoda sighed. “You’re growing up fast, little one.”
“Please, stop calling me that.” I decided to not remark on how he said I was leaner and curvier. Takoda was always very perceptive, and the statement was made more as an observation than anything harmful. Still, I couldn’t help feeling a little awkward he’d noticed.
Takoda shook his head and chuckled. “Tell me about your summer, Willie.” He stressed my name to make certain I noticed he’d used my real name instead of his nickname for me.
“Well… I got along well with my family. I have a grandma and everything, which I didn’t know until I got there. Oh, and I went running with my brother every morning while I was out there.” I started.
“That explains some things,” Takoda interrupted.
I decided to ignore his comment and continued. “Oh, and…” I paused, blushing. “I also had my first boyfriend.”
Takoda’s eyebrows shot up. “Oh?” He paused. “Does your dear love interest know this?” I couldn’t tell if Takoda was teasing or serious. Sometimes it was hard to tell with him.
“Love interest?” I questioned, confused.
“Spike?” Takoda prompted.
“Oh… uh, no. I guess he doesn’t. But he won’t care. It’s a long story and I don’t want to get into it right now.”
Takoda nodded. “So, are you still dating this mystery guy? Or was it a summer thing?”
“A summer thing,” I answered. “We knew it was from the start. But he was nice.”
“He’d better be.” Takoda’s voice was half-joking and half-serious. “There would be a lot of angry men to face if he weren’t, after all.”
I laughed. “Yeah, that’s true. I feel bad for any guy who thinks about dating me, here.”
Something flickered across Takoda’s face. It was a strange look I didn’t understand, and it was gone so quickly I might have imagined it. “Well, tell me about this boyfriend. What was his name, how old was he, the usual stuff.”
“You’re interested in all that? Isn’t that something guys don’t usually care about?” I teased.
Takoda snorted as he grinned. “Well, I don’t have anything else to do today, and I’m certain you want to spill the details to everyone who will listen.”
I grinned. Without responding to his comment, I began to tell him about Nash. “He’s eighteen. No, wait, he’s nineteen now.”
Takoda raised an eyebrow at me. “Isn’t that a little old for you?”
“You hang out with sixteen-year-old girls, don’t you? And you’re even older.”
Takoda shook his head. “I’m not dating one, though.”
I snorted. “Bet you wish you were.” My eyes grew wide when I realized my mouth had spoken before my brain told it not to. I clasped a hand over my mouth in shock. That was something I wouldn’t have normally said. Maybe Alabama had changed me in some ways.
Takoda arched an eyebrow and stared for a moment before answering. Slowly nodding, he said, “You know, you might be right.” I stopped breathing. Takoda shrugged his shoulders heavily and said, “Then again, maybe you’re not. We’ll never know, will we?” He spread his hands wide to punctuate his statement and then he laughed, his typical grin returning to his face.
I assumed Takoda had been joking, although I was never really certain, and I laughed with him. His eyes twinkled in the sunlight for a moment and caught my attention. They were the most beautiful shade of light brown. Not that I was crushing on Takoda, but I’d learned to pay attention to the beauty around me in all things. Even strange guys who left me constantly confused and feeling I’d been left out of an inside joke.
If you enjoyed that short excerpt, you’ll want to CLICK HERE and order the whole series!!!
I’m excited to be one of many tour hosts sharing information about The Growing Roots Series by Chelsea Falin. Be sure to check out her books on Amazon and order your copies today!
A twisted tale told by Harley Quinn herself, when Gotham’s most nefariously narcissistic villain, Roman Sionis, and his zealous right-hand, Zsasz, put a target on a young girl named Cass, the city is turned upside down looking for her. Harley, Huntress, Black Canary and Renee Montoya’s paths collide, and the unlikely foursome have no choice but to team up to take Roman down.
Now let’s talk about the movie… That’s why we are here, right?
I’m not a comic reader, so I can’t speak to the accuracy of the character’s story/timeline, but I did like this story. I thought the character of Harley Quinn, which I had not been introduced to before was very interesting. I thought that the script really was successful at giving her a complete backstory with clear intent as to why she does the things she does and why she will continue to be the criminal she is.
Cinematography ★★★★
There were some great camera shots, especially in the beginning of the film when Harley is running from everyone who now wants her dead. I think the cinematography during that scene as well as the fight scene in the fun house was particularly well done.
Character(s)/Acting: ★★★★
FUN! FUN! FUN! The lead actresses in this film seemed like they were having the time of their lives. They dove into their roles, head first, and didn’t look back. I thought they all did a great job brining live to these over the top, comic book characters.
FUN FACTS:
* Jurnee Smollett-Bell does all of her own singing in the film.
* When Harley Quinn is leaving the police precinct she points to a wanted poster and says, "Hey, I know that guy!". The wanted poster is that of Captain Boomerang with whom she worked with in Suicide Squad (2016).
* The egg sandwich that is made for Harley Quinn is not made with chicken eggs, but instead with duck eggs because Margot Robbie is allergic to chicken egg white (she gets migraines from them).
MY FAVORITE QUOTE:
“You know what they say: behind every successful man is a badass broad.” ~ Harley Quinn
TO SUM IT UP:
I definatly think Birds of Prey is worth seeing. Especially now, when we are all pretty much locked in our houses trying to avoid COVID-19. So, renting it online, pop some popcorn, and enjoy a night in!
Have you seen Birds of Prey yet? If so, let me know your thoughts in the comments below. If not, like I always say, I highly recommend seeing it for yourself and forming your own opinion.
Kiki – Ellis Atwood is the devil. Ok, maybe that’s too harsh. Ellis Atwood is ruining my life. First, he demolishes a perfectly good wedding trellis. Second, he destroys a gorgeous doggie wedding that I spent ages planning. (I kid you not.) Third, he makes me feel all warm and fuzzy, and that is not ok. I prefer the cold and harsh way my fiancé makes me feel so much better. (wait, that didn’t come out right.) Fourth, and there is a fourth, he gets me all wound up and flustered. And last, when he unexpectedly kissed me it made me forget my own name, or the fact that I’m getting married…in a month. Please someone help me out. I’m a mess. Worst part is, Ellis isn’t the bad guy I first thought he was. And being forced to spend time with him is making me realize that he needs my help more than anything. So what’s a girl like me to do?
Ellis – I’m only in town long enough to figure out a plan with my brother on how to save our brewery from the awfulness that is my father. Oh and be in a wedding. Where I may or may not be crushing a little too hard on the bride-to-be. (spoiler alert, I’m crushing hard.) She’s really cute. Like seriously. And she has the cutest job, she’s a dog wedding planner. (I kid you not.) I can see why Henry loves her. I can see why everyone loves her. I can see why I’m falling for her. I’m usually not a relationship-type guy. Call it picky or whatnot, but usually I get bored easily. So, my plan is simple. Spend as much time with Kiki (soon to be Faniki, I know) and hopefully get bored with her adorkable smile and sexy legs that go on for miles. Then, I can save the brewery, be the best man of the wedding, and get my butt back to Chicago and away from the happy couple.
Logan Chance is a USA Today and Top 20 Amazon Bestselling Author with a quick wit and penchant for the simple things in life: Star Wars, music, and smart girls who love to read. He was nominated best debut author for the Goodreads Choice Awards in 2016. His works can be classified as Dramedies (Drama+Comedies), featuring a ton of laughs and many swoon worthy, heartfelt moments.
Are you interested in a chance to win a $10 Amazon gift card? Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
I am excited to be one of the many tour hosts sharing information about Never Kiss a Stranger by Logan Chance. If you are as excited about this book as I am, make sure you ORDER YOUR COPY HERE!
Maris (The Brotherhood Files Book 1) by Isaiyan Morrison Genre: Paranormal Urban Fantasy
She gave me her blood, and my life changed forever.
Anastasia. My sire. The only influential figure in my already-fragile life. She did this to me. She caused all the pain and suffering. There was a time I believed I owed her everything. After all, she gave me immortality and the never-ending thirst for the psychic energy contained in the blood of my victims.
But now vampires hunt me and the humans want to use me as their personal weapon. They believe I’m some apotropaic figurine that can damn all Deamhan and force us back into hell where we belong.
Me? I just want to live. I just want to be Maris. That way, the only one I can damn is myself.
In 1840s Paris, vampires aren’t just at the throats of humans. Split into two warring factions, Dorvo vampires wage war against the Deamhan, their paranormal cousins created by dark magic and who feed on the psychic energy of their human victims. In this strange new world, Remy, a bourgeoisie, is sired as a Deamhan by Julian. But the intoxicating rush of becoming a powerful psychic vampire is soon eclipsed by the presence of Ruby, a beautiful yet elusive Dorvo vampire.
Betrayed by his own, Ruby feeds his undesirable urge to have his revenge against Julian and the rest of the Deamhan. But he doesn’t know if he can trust Ruby. She may have given him his freedom, but she’s still the enemy who has vowed to vanquish the Deamhan, the very same Deamhan that betrayed him. Now it’s up to Remy to decide who to trust — and who to destroy.
In Remy, The Brotherhood Files, author Isaiyan Morrison presents a paranormal urban fantasy about fractured relationships, mistrust, and forgiveness. Here in the City of Love, it’s anything but, as Remy’s caught between two warring sides who both want him gone. Will his desire for revenge cloud his judgment? Or will he figure out who he can trust once and for all? In this wild journey from the graveyard and through the dark alleys and cobblestoned streets of Paris, Remy is both hunter…and prey.
I trusted my sire to show me where I could find the good meals. We continued to walk until we reached an area swarming with humans and taverns. She loved taverns and told me that she spent the majority of her nights seducing and feeding from humans in them. She moved easily from one drunk human to another without being seen. This could only happen if I trained my Deamhan body to get used to blood tainted with alcohol.
“In the past I didn’t have to worry about vampires or The Brotherhood,” she said. “But now they’ve grown bolder and smarter. We have to protect ourselves and each other, Maris, in whatever way we can.”
I stopped walking. “What did the vampires want with me?”
“To eat you, of course.” She placed her arm around my shoulder.
“No, not that.” I wanted to know more. “The Ancient who declared this Decretum on me. Why was it done? Who is this Deamhan?”
“You’ll find out soon. But now you need to eat.” Again she avoided the question. “There has to be a type of human you like. We’ll find that one for you.”
We took a sharp right and turned down a dimly lit alleyway. The cobblestones felt hard underneath my feet and the archway was low over my head. Anastasia stopped suddenly and she looked over her shoulder. I didn’t catch it at first but I could tell by the way her eyes narrowed and her body tensed that someone had followed us.
She pointed for me to stand against the stone wall and remain still and quiet. I didn’t want to disobey her, so I quickly followed her command.
The wind increased and I felt a blow on my cheek that stunned me almost into unconscious. I fell to the floor. As a human, I knew I couldn’t take a blow like that and come out unscathed. Thanks to the Ramanga blood in my veins, I found myself standing to my feet just in time to witness Anastasia place herself between me and a male wearing a standard red vest and white Victorian shirt underneath a brown frock coat. He didn’t resemble anyone who lived in the area. He didn’t smell like a human or a Deamhan.
They rushed toward one another and their movements blurred in the dim light, like two butterflies swarming around each other. This male, who stood a little taller than Anastasia, made use of the wall by running on it and launching his body at her. She ducked as he flew right by her. Anastasia stood up and struck him with her foot in his lower back. He tumbled forward and turned around. He pulled out a long wooden stake from the pocket of his frock coat, gripped it tightly, and turned to me. That’s when I instantly knew that he had come for me.
Part of me wanted to join in the altercation but I didn’t dare go against her order. I also didn’t know if I was strong enough to fight him. Again Anastasia placed herself in his way and he jumped with the stake in his right hand. He took a stab at her but she quickly moved to the right. He stabbed again and she moved this time to the left. In his final attempt he aimed for her midsection and she caught him by his wrist. She took her other hand and pushed at his shoulder. I heard a loud crack and he dropped his stake, gripped his shoulder, and staggered back.
Anastasia kicked the stake off to the side and it glided across the stone floor, stopping in front of me. I knelt down to pick it up when my senses heightened and I looked to my right. He came toward me and I tensed up, not knowing what to do. But she pushed him and he flew back, hitting the wall. Anastasia snatched the stake from me and in a blink of an eye she now stood over him. I saw her raise the stake and she struck.
His body lurched forward and he tried to yank the stake from his body. The skin on his right cheek turned dark and it began to spread, moving over his face and down his neck. He opened his mouth and I saw fangs, longer than my own. His eyeballs sunk into the back of his skull and his body melted right before our eyes. The atrocious smell made me cover my nose. Anastasia stood up and straightened her clothing.
I approached her cautiously, still staring at our attacker’s remains. “He is a Deamhan, like us?”
“No. When Deamhan die we don’t die like that.” She used her right foot and began to poke at the remains. “This one was a vampire.”
If you enjoyed this excerpt from Maris, book 1 in The Brotherhood Files, make sure you order your copy today!
Nina Soden 