Fate is giving her the one man she'd never want for her very own.
Princess Ari of the planet Falconia knows it’s her time to marry and has picked out several suitable men in her mind—none of which are Falcoan Army Commander, Rurik of the Fifth. The man tormented her as a child, causing her untold humiliations. But there is really no need to worry about such a match. Shifters cannot rule and Rurik is a natural born falcon shifter.
Trusting destiny, Ari sips from the Marriage Chalice, sealing her future. But things don’t go as planned. It would seem fate is giving her to the man she despises. How can she find happiness with the one man she could never want for her very own?
Prince Quinn, royal Ambassador, isn't looking for a serious relationship. In fact, he's never even considered it. Hopping from lover to lover, he's content to enjoy himself, never taking anything but his work seriously. However, when Dr. Tori Elliot is sent to the palace to test for biological weapons, he can't seem to stay away from her.
Or not to play…
Tori Elliot has just finished her last assignment and is on her way to a much needed vacation. But when the Human Intelligence Agency stops her ship and demands she heads up a team on some remote planet, she knows it in her best interest not to refuse. Ever serious, she knows she's there to do a job and no matter what, she's going to act like a professional.
Meeting Prince Quinn, his body pressed against another woman in the palace halls, she knows he's not the man for her. Too bad he's the Ambassador and too sexy for his own good. Fighting her desire, Tori must try to do her job while not succumbing to the playful Var prince.
Rating: Contains graphic sexual content, adult language, and violence.
Scientist Bridget Dutton has no time for traditional love. Her heart belongs to her work. Even though taking chemical readings of ocean water isn’t her thing, she’s willing to put in her time for her chance at exploring the Abyss. When her boat is attacked from below, Bridget’s dream just might come true sooner than planned.
Caderyn the Hunter, the sexiest--and perhaps craziest--man she’s ever laid eyes on may have rescued her from death, but who’s going to rescue her from him? With a deliciously hot body and all the right moves, the man is a walking seduction that’s too hard to resist. There’s only one problem. Caderyn claims they’re in the Abyss, living on a cursed island along the deep ocean floor. And, if that wasn’t bad enough, he says he’s a merman.
Sparks fly. Desires heat. But can Caderyn convince the logical Bridget there’s room for more than one love in her heart?
Rating: Contains graphic sexual content, adult language, and violence.
Winners: Authors should be contacting you shortly with your prize information!Please be patient, as I have to notify all the authors. To learn more about any of the participating authors, please visit thier website listed below.
I am the Psychic Investigator / trance medium for the New England Ghost Project.
What is the The New England Ghost Project and how are you involved?
The N.E.G.P. is comprised of a group of individuals who volunteer their time to verify the existence of paranormal activity. Or, more importantly, assist those in need of a resolution to repetitive paranormal occurrences.
Group members:
Ron Kolek (Founder of the N.E.G.P.) - Handles the Electro Magnetic Field Monitor (EMF). A sudden change / appearance in the EMF where there once was none is generally a sign that paranormal activity is occurring.
Leo Monfet - Our ace photographer, captures paranormal activity on film.
Karen Mossey - EVP specialist, uses her digital recorder to capture voices of the dead. These voices are comprised of energy of the deceased manipulating the white noise of a recorder to leave messages from beyond. Karen's recordings have been heard in the movie "White Noise" and most recently during last years, fall episode of "Ghost Whisperer."
Ron Jr. - Runs the video and base camp. Base camp is where our investigation is monitored: temperature gages, infrared satellite recordings etc. that are reported to the group through a walkie talkie.
Myself - I assist the group by sensing the environment and locating spiritual activity (better known as bait). Once we encounter an entity we attempt to communicate. This happens through a series of ways: spiritual dowsing, medium ship or trance medium ship abilities. I listen to what they have to say and depending on the situation and energy we are encountering, I make the conscious decision to allow them to speak through me. It's my belief that allowing an entity to channel through me, I give them the opportunity to release / change their vibration. Similar to a living person having a bad day, once they vent their frustrations they begin to feel better, lighter even.
At what age/point in your life did you become aware of your gifts/abilities?
When I was three I had a near death experience., meningitis. I hovered above my body and looked on as a doctor placed a large needle in my back and listened with curiosity as a priest administered last rites. I then floated out the double doors of the operating room and found my mother and father in tears. I remember the overwhelming need to hug them. Suddenly I felt myself sucked back into my body and was instantly jolted by the magnitude of pain shooting up my spine as I returned.
Was a there an influential event in your life that lead you to do what you do now— professional psychic medium?
I guess it's because of my desire to help. I know it sounds corny. . . but it's true. When I was young I would hear whisperings of my relatives talking to my mother. I was evil, a freak etc. My mother never listened to them. Rather, she gave me holy water and told me there was nothing wrong with me. That I was normal! (It had been in the family for years)
I've seen the deceased ever since I could remember. However, I remember when I was about twelve years of age and began having prophetic visions. They occurred while having momentary blackouts during the day and during the evening while I slept I began to see horrible events taking place. One such event prompted my mother to call a midwest town's task force. A young child had gone missing. I had seen the boy in my dreams for weeks. After calling and reporting the details they demanded I come down for questioning. Long story short the boy was never found. Even before we made the phone call I knew the boy would never be found. That he'd been killed and I would not see him again. It was then I prayed to God that if this was evil to take it away, and if it wasn't and I was meant to do something with it, then I would do the best I could. Well, suffice it to say, it only got stronger. And, here I am working with the N.E.G.P.
Can you share a little bit about your most unique paranormal experiences?
There are so many of them it's hard to choose.
I can tell you there is a haunted mansion in the Berkshires that has given be both unbelievable joy and horror!
The Haunted Houghton Mansion in North Adams Ma.
History has it that three deaths within a period of a week or so took place. The Houghton's chauffeur, John Widder, was driving the family car when he hit a soft shoulder and the vehicle rolled. The accident killed Mary, one of the Houghton daughters. The following day, Widder brought a gun to one of the buildings behind Houghton Mansion and committed suicide. Albert Houghton himself died only seven days later, apparently succumbing to grief.
It is my personal belief that Mary, and John Widder loved each other greatly. During one of our visits to the mansion, and with the help of everyone present we were able to reunite Mary and John in the afterlife. At the time this took place I was channeling Mary and could see John coming up over what looked like a bridge, arms stretched out wide he reached for me. Within moments the energy was so loving, so overwhelming beautiful it felt like like a magnet of love had just snapped together within me. To all present it literally felt like a wedding had just taken place. We knew in our hearts that something wonderful had transpired.
Unfortunately, Mr. Houghton, (Mary's deceased father) was furious. I began to feel his anger. We left the mansion only to return another day and face his wrath. Mary came to me again. Only this time she channeled for a moment and tried to worn us. She wanted us to leave quickly. Within seconds, and the only way I can describe the feeling is that of the metaphor of taking a tiger by the tail. Psychically open while I channeled Mary, Mr. Houghton jumped inside me and pushed her out. I then began to spout curses, screaming and gurgling sounds came out of me. (or so I've been told) It took four people to pull me free from the chair and break his hold over me. I spent the next ten minutes or so on the floor unconscious. (Ron was horrified! He didn't know what to do? It's not as if he could call 911 and tell him I had a spirit in me!)
With the help of some friends who gave me energy I made it back. While I was on the floor I remember hearing everyone around me, from a distance. All I could see was complete darkness. Through it all I knew I would be okay. We had done a good thing helping Mary and John and Mr. Houghton would have to deal with it.
I prayed, asked for strength and guidance and struggled through what felt like sludge and pulled my energetic form back into my body. I was back! Unfortunately I spent the next week or so wearing crystals around my heart to repair the whole in my auric field and around my heart chakra. If I hadn't known better I would have sworn I was having a heart attack. (Mr. Houghton, through his anger did try to hurt me. Attempting to steal my life force. (heart energy). Well, I'm still here today and have since visited the mansion and made some peace with Mr. Houghton! Mary and John, from what I can tell are still present at the mansion for fear of losing each other again!!!
What do you have to say to non-believers? Why do you think not everyone can communicate with the dead?
There's an anonymous saying:
For those who believe no further information is necessary
For those who don't, none will suffice.
Let's just say that I am not out to convince the world of paranormal existence. I know the truth, as do others that have experienced paranormal activity.
As far as everyone speaking or, not speaking with the dead: We all have some level of psychic ability. It depends upon ones willingness, intent, believability, fortitude and above all, ones ability to trust in the process. Also, if a person is afraid of facing their own mortality it can hinder them in communicating with what lies beyond this physical plane.
What thoughts do you have on Hollywood’s portrayal of psychics/sensitive?
I enjoy watching both the "Medium" and "Ghost Whisperer". Although it's Hollywood, each has their good points.
The Medium - I can relate to Alison's family environment. The difficulties that can arise and interrupt what would be considered a "normal" (finger quotes) family. The Medium receives her information primarily through dream state. (quite common among psychics). Also, both Alison from the "Medium" and Melinda from the "Ghost Whisperer" keep the fact they can communicate to the dead to a select group of individuals. I would say the Ghost Whisperer has been adapted for Hollywood more than the "Medium" however, I enjoy them both.
Is there one you feel is more accurate than the rest? One you wish you could throw your shoe at?
The Medium. And no, I wouldn't throw a shoe at any show. I take what I watch for what it is. . . fiction. Also, I understand the need for the media to make it entertaining and minimize the terrifying aspects of what communicating with the dead can reveal. If I don't like it. I don't watch it. :-)
Can you tell us a little more about yourself?
For a day time job I'm a technical instructor for medical company. I instruct engineers on how to install and repair digital mammography equipment. I have two wonderful children and a loving and supportive husband. I enjoy writing and painting. . . (in my free time). And my quest, although not totally understood by some. . . is to help both the living and the dead find the peace of heart mind and soul that they rightfully deserve! :-)
How about I just include my bio:
I am a fifth generation Psychic / Trance-medium. For as far back as I can remember I've communicated with the deceased. At the age of fifteen I was introduced to a woman who studied with Laurie Cabot (official Witch of Salem, Ma). It was she who took me under her wing and guided me in ways to not only understand but control my gifts. Soon after and until the age of nineteen I began acting as a medium for adult seances. I have practiced, studied and instructed Metaphysical studies for more than twenty-five years.
The N.E.G.P. has been featured in:
Television appearances include, WHDH Channel 7 Boston, WMUR Channel 9 Manchester, WNDS Channel 50,My TV Prime, CNN8, ATT3, Kabel 1 Germany, and several local cable channels.
Radio appearances include WZID, WQLL, WCCM, WBOQ, WHJY, WNUV, and The Frugal Yankee Radio Hour.
Newspaper articles in: The Boston Globe, South China Morning Post, The Lawrence Eagle Tribune,The Lowell Sun, The Salem Observer, The Manchester Union Leader, The Andover Townsman, The Nashua Telegraph, The Advocate, Windham Life, The Wire, The Portsmouth Herald, The North Adams Transcript, Bidderford Tribune Journal, and of course the Stateline Review.
Magazines include Woman's World and Brutarian
Currently I am the co-host to Ghost Chronicles radio show which airs live each Friday evening on WCCM, channel 1490 AM from 5-6 PM. You can also catch a new series of Ghost Chronicles pod-casted from http://www.ghostvillage.com.
Soon to air:
The American Builder episode featuring NEGP at the New London Ledge Lighthouse will premiere on CN8 October 30th at 6:30pm, then replay October 31st at 6:30 am & pm and November 1st at 6:30 am.
At what age/point in your life did you become interested in investigating the paranormal?
I have been interested in investigating the paranormal since the age of 9. At that time, I had an undeniable experience that set me on the course I have been following ever since. Of course I was too young to begin investigating at that point, but I read everything I could get my hands on and studied until I turned 18 and started going on actual investigations.
Do you believe, or have you found evidence, that the paranormal really do exist? What kinds?
I absolutely do believe in the paranormal, based solely on personal experiences, it is undeniable to me. I also beleive that 99.9% of what people believe to be paranormal, is explainable with a little knowledge and work. I wish I had hard core evidence that I could show to the world, but I dont believe that evidence exists anywhere. My feeling are just this, either you believe in the paranormal or you don't, until you are lucky enough to have an experience that changes your view on the world.
Have you ever debunked fraudulent paranormal activity? Can you tell us about it?
Absolutely! This is what I do when i investigate. I have debunked everything from anomalies in pictures that turned out to be reflections from mirrors and picture frames reflected on the wall, to voices thought to be disembodied which turned out to be simply carried through heat ducts from another unit in an apartment complex, to people who just wanted attention in a storage facility who actually hid a friend of theirs in a unit to make noises in an attempt to get attention.
Has there ever been an investigation you couldn't disprove?
I have been on a couple that I couldnt disprove. A couple that pop to mind are the Queen Mary in Long Beach CA, alot of strange things go on on that ship. Another was a residence in Apple Valley, CA. This house was a strange one because we thought we had figured it out but we couldnt have been more wrong. One of the daughters was being badgered by something, but on our first trip in we found out that she had some minor psychological problems which she was being medicated for. We found no evidence initially so we assumed it was a psych problem. We went back a couple times, and things were getting worse. Scratches, objects moved, the whole gamut was occuring. The residents ended up having a minister "cleanse" the house, whic only made the activity worse. I didnt have any contact with them after that, but talk about being completely off base, we were really wrong on that one.
What thoughts do you have on Hollywood’s portrayal of the paranormal? Is there one you feel is more accurate than the rest? One you wish you could throw your shoe at?
Well Hollywood banks on one thing, entertainment. I enjoy their movies and shows, but none of them are completely accurate in my mind, with the exception of Ghost Hunters on Sci Fi. That is a more accurate depiction of paranormal investigations. If Hollywood focused on accuracy in this field they would make no money. We do alot of sitting around and observing, you cant sell that to an ADD public. If I had to complain about one depiction of the paranormal in Hollywood, it would be the Amityville Horror "remake." Talk about a bastardization of a bastardization. George Lutz himself said the original was nothing like what actually occured, and the remake wasnt even anything like the original, absolutely terrible. Oh and dont even get me started on "Most Haunted" and Derek Acorah. I dont think any other group of people with the exception of the IGHS has done more to hurt this field than those clowns.
Can you tell us a little more about yourself and what you do?
I am 27 years old, a business owner and a full time student. Currently I am working on a second college degree, and co-host a paranormal talk radio show. I am a skeptic believer who had been investigating for a decade now. The only thing I have learned is that NO ONE out there knows anything about the paranormal. We are all struggling to find something tangible to use as a jumping off point to start real research. I feel there needs to be more educated people in this field as well. Many of the folks involved just follow in the footsteps of other folks who didnt know what they were doing either, and the community goes in circles instead of moving forward. This is a science, go out and learn. God bless the hobbyists, but understand that spouting your postulations as fact is not only ignorant, but does nothing to further paranormal research. Accept that none of us KNOW anything about what we have experienced, get studying, and lets all move forward together!
We would like to thank you for taking time out to talk with us. Is there a place our readers can find you? A website? Email?
I would love to talk to your readers and anyone else with an interest in the unexplained. It is always a pleasure to hear different viewpoints. I can be found at www.paratalkradio.com or co.ghostinvestigations.com, and can also be emailed at madidus303@gmail.com
Interview with Nicole, ParaTalk Radio Host, writing a book about psychic vampires
At what age/point in your life did you become interested in investigating the paranormal?
Growing up with a father that has been involved in the study of the paranormal for over 30 years, naturally I was drawn to this field. I first became interested in the paranormal around the age of 9, after having my own personal paranormal experience. Since then, I have been involved in the study of this field and fascinated by the unexplained. At the age of 19 I began conducting investigations and eventually put together my own paranormal investigations team and have been conducting investigations since.
Do you believe, or have you found evidence, that the paranormal really do exist? What kinds?
Yes I am 100% convinced that the paranormal truly does exist. Throughout my many years investigating I have come across many paranormal encounters which I have not been able to explain which makes it hard to not believe in the existence of the paranormal. An incident that first comes to mind as far as evidence is concerned, was at a private residence I was investigating in Spokane, WA. We had everything from strange EVP’s to unexplainable photos that we captured on this investigation.
Currently, you're writing a book about psychic vampires. Can you tell us a little bit about that? What is a psychic vampire?
Yes I am currently writing a book on the subject of psychic vampires, which has fascinated me for years now. A psychic vampire is any person just like you or myself, who either intentionally or unintentionally takes energy or what I like to call “life force” from other people or any living thing. Most everyone has been in contact with a psychic vampire at one point or another in their lifetime. There are many reasons why psychic vampires drain energy. One reason is because for some reason or another, they can not produce enough of their own energy, therefore have the need to take it from someone or something that does. A lot of them do not even realize they are doing so, while others do this intentionally. The book I am currently writing touches on the different types of psychic vampires, as well as the history of vampires in general.
Do you believe in the existence of psychic vampires, or is your work merely from a historical/mythical point of view? Have you ever encountered a psychic vampire? What made you choose this topic?
Yes I believe in the existence of psychic vampires as I have encountered many throughout my life. I chose to begin writing my own book on the topic of psychic vampires because of my own personal fascination with the different types of vampires that exist in this world. I want to learn everything I possibly can on the subject matter and have spoken with several other authors like myself who have studied psi-vamps for many years. The subject of psychic vampires is one that a lot of people do not know a much about and I want to be able to bring forth as much information as possible on the topic to help educate others who are interested in vampires in general. I am hoping that with the publication of this book, it will help those out there who seek answers as to whether or not they may be a psychic vampire or know others who are.
Have you ever debunked fraudulent paranormal activity? Can you tell us about it?
I have debunked many cases where the paranormal activity has been fraudulent. One that I will share was on an investigation at a house in Coeur d Alene, ID. My team was contacted to come out to an older home built back in the early 1900’s due to strange noises and doors opening and closing as well as a specific radio which was turning itself on by itself during a specific time of the evening. We came out to investigate the home, only to find that the radio which was turning itself on, was also an alarm clock which had been set to go off while we were there for the investigation. The door in the basement that was opening and closing on its own, was happening due to one of the guys that lived there that thought it would be funny to tie a fishing pool line to the door and was pulling it shut from outside the bedroom window. Not to clever on his part if you ask me. But there is a lot of fraudulent activity that I have seen mostly from kids who like to have fun at investigators expense, from my experience.
Has there ever been an investigation you couldn't disprove?
There have been several investigations that I could not disprove, but in my experiences, a good majority of cases can be debunked from natural occurrences that may happen in any home/building. One case that I could not disprove was a home where on the investigation, I was standing in the kitchen with another one of my team members and had a large glass thrown at me from the other side of the kitchen. This was not only a bit startling but also something that we could not debunk. We witnessed several cupboards in this home opening on their own.
What thoughts do you have on Hollywood’s portrayal of the paranormal? Is there one you feel is more accurate than the rest? One you wish you could throw your shoe at?
I feel that Hollywood highly misportrays the paranormal field in general. I have not come across one movie that I feel accurately portrays the paranormal. There are so many TV shows out there that really make the field out to be more fictional and theatrical than what it really is. I feel that the show TAPS Ghost Hunters more accurately depicts the truth of the paranormal existence. They use science and actually go in to disprove the activity, where as a lot of other shows just go in to prove the activity and throw in a lot of theatrics to catch the public’s eye. One movie that I felt stretched the truth way past what it really is, would be the movie “White Noise.” They make EVP work look like it is a terrible thing to do and bring forth that conducting work in this field will bring out evil entities that will attack you and they stretch the truth far beyond what EVP work truly is all about.
Can you tell us a little more about yourself and what you do?
I currently reside in Denver, CO and am a business owner as well as a college student. I am the Regional Director of a paranormal investigations team out here known as Ghost Investigations Colorado as well as the co-host of a paranormal talk radio show called ParaTalk Radio. I am dedicated to the research and study of the paranormal and continue to seek other like minded individuals with the same goals.
We would like to thank you for taking time out to talk with us. Is there a place our readers can find you? A website? Email?
You can find my websites at www.paratalkradio.com as well as http://co.ghostinvestigations.com . I can be easily reached by email at leader.nicole@gmail.com or ghostinvestigations.colorado@gmail.com.
Immortality has a way of changing fate. Merrick, dark elfin King of Valdis, had once been heir to all that was good - happiness and pleasure his domain.Now, trapped as the ruler of mischief, king of necessary evil, he stands on a precipice of choice. On one side, his estranged brother, now ruler of what should have been Merrick's and, on the other, King Lucien of the Damned. Both would sway him. Damnation is winning.
Lady Juliana of Bellemare is from a human family, protected by the blessed, coveted by the damned. Betrothed to an old friend of her father's, Juliana is resigned to living out her days close to her childhood home, longing for an adventure, never dreaming she’d get what she wished for. When her fiancé is murdered and the children of Bellemare are stolen, Juliana is sent on a quest in a strange realm where appearances are deceiving.
Merrick brings more adventure and passion than any woman could want. Can she withstand the temptations of the unblessed king? The spell she weaves over him is more than he can resist and, desperate to be the one to rule her, Merrick offers her a choice; either come with him until he tires of her...or die.
"You tricked me into giving my word. You manipulated me, Merrick.".
Merrick sighed, looking at Juliana's back. She lay on his bed. The room was his, but he'd been letting her sleep there. Now that she had pledged her body, he would not be staying away. He'd been up most of the night with Lord Kalen and his men. After the guests had left, they sat around talking, strategizing. The bonfire was abandoned. It was just a simple warning that Ean's men had been there.
"You look uncomfortable." Merrick motioned his hand, giving her a nightdress. Her gown changed to a loose-fitting silk chemise with sheer sleeves. She'd already taken off the jewels and he saw them on the table next to her toiletries.
She tensed, pushing up from the bed. "I'm tired of you doing that. I want to dress myself. I want to pick my own clothes. I'm tired of looking like a…" Juliana's mouth worked as if she tripped over the words. "Like a woman of low morals."
"I dress you in the materials of an elfin queen," Merrick stated. As he lay down, his clothing disappeared, leaving him naked. His crown faded into nothingness. He rested on his back, folding his hands behind his head. "Whores have no need of clothing."
Juliana's mouth worked, as she eyed his naked body. He winked at her, smiling. Fighting the urge to laugh, she asked, "Are you…saying you're a…?"
"Man of low morals?" he prompted. "Most definitely. It comes with the crown."
Juliana giggled, covering her mouth. She hit him lightly on the arm. "I'm angry with you. Stop making me laugh."
"What is it I have done now?" Merrick sighed. Would she never be pleased?
"That old woman tonight, the one with the missing eye. She said that you kidnapped me to start a war."
He said nothing.
"So it is true?" she said.
Merrick reached for her. She was always so quick to think the worst in him. But could he blame her? Everyone expected the worst out of him. He'd long ago stopped explaining himself, knowing it would do no good. For some reason, even as he resolved to let her think what she would of him, he found himself saying, "A war has started because I've taken you. I did not take you to start a war."
"Then why did you take me?" She moved closer to him. Her hair spilled over her shoulders in a messy array of curls. She'd taken it down on her own, but he found he liked the messy imperfection and did not change it.
"Kiss me," he said instead of answering. He expected her to refuse, but she didn't. Crawling over to him, she lightly brushed her lips onto his, making a soft noise as they touched.
"I shouldn't want you," she said. "I don't want to want you."
"I know."
"You killed my intended." Juliana didn't open her eyes. Her hair spilled along his face. "You've tricked me and manipulated me."
"Don't look to the past. It will never bring you peace." Merrick closed his eyes. His body was aroused, but that was nothing new. He was always aroused by her. Her smell surrounded him, so sweet, so soft. She was so beautiful, the one thing he enjoyed looking at in his world of goblins and trolls. "Touch me, Juliana. I want you to make love to me."
Merrick wanted her to get used to him, wanted her to touch him when she had the urge to do so, to not hold back. Juliana feared her feelings for him. Humans were strange creatures when it came to passion. They treated it like a curse. How could something that felt so wonderful, so completing, be a curse?
Interview with Rose Marie Wolfe, psychically sensitive
At what age/point in your life did you become aware of your gifts/abilities?
I had always sensed strange things from a very early age. I saw my first ghost when I was about five or six, though I didn't know it at the time. I always felt as if something was following me, like a monster. Whenever I would turn to see it, it would disappear. One day, I happened to walk by a mirror and glanced into it and saw the form of a tall man in a fancy dress suit, something of a 19th century style and I was stunned, scared.
When I was about sixteen I began to research more about psychically sensitive people and discovered I was clearly one. Since then, I have come to accept my gifts and I am no longer afraid to face it.
Was a there an influential event in your life that lead you communicating with the dead?
After my mother's death in 2004, I constantly began to have dreams relating to her. Her spirit would visit me and talk to me as I slept and I realized there was something I had to do, something I was supposed to. And that something was growing psychically. My mother had always been able to see spirits. She told me the most fantastic ghost stories, stories that were true, that had happened to her. She could always sense something. It was like she knew everything, literally.
But she was never really open about it. When I would ask her, she would change the subject, skirt around it as if it was something to never be mentioned again. So, it seemed to me that she was trying to make up for that in death by coming to me and finally opening up. That was when I really began to communicate with the spirits around me.
Can you share a little bit about your most unique paranormal experences?
Oh, where to begin? The one that sticks out in my mind was the poltergeist I encountered when I was about fifteen or sixteen. I was seated at my computer, chatting with a friend when I heard a strange musical sound. At the time, I had several collectible porcelain dolls, all lined up in a row on my mantle and they played songs when wound up. My brother and nephew were visiting that day and naturally, I thought the little boy was playing with my doll.
I spun around quickly to scold him, but he wasn't there. Instead, the porcelain doll in the center of the mantle began to turn, her music still playing. She turned about until she faced the other wall away from me. I was stunned. I stared at the place for the longest time, then slowly got up. I walked out of the room in a daze and went straight to my mother.
The thing about this encounter wasn't so much the shock of seeing it happen, but my mother's reaction. When I told her there was a ghost in my room, she only shrugged and said "They do things like that. Maybe you should find out what it wants." That shocked me more than anything and stands out in my mind as vivid today as when it happened.
What do you have to say to non-believers? Why do you think not everyone can communitcate with the dead?
Alot of times I think it comes from childhood experiences that are quickly squashed by parental influences. Children are often more inclined to recieve psychic impulses, but as they grow and learn and are forced to believe what their parents want them to believe, they let go of it. They no longer are able to see the spirits, or talk to them, or experience anything otherworldy. It brings to mind a true story I once heard of a young woman who's daughter was constantly talking to a deceased brother she had never met. The mother, fed up with her daughter's "imaginary friend", told her he was dead and therefore made it final. The little girl never saw spirits ever again.
What thoughts do you have on Hollywood’s portrayal of psychics/sensitives? Is there one you feel is more accurate than the rest? One you wish you could throw your shoe at?
For the most part, Hollywood is totally wrong. Entertainment is stories, made up things, fiction. And some people take that too far. I feel for a story to be believable, there must be some element of truth to it, even if it's the smallest amount, espeically when it comes to psychics and sensitives.
Can you tell us a little more about yourself?
My debut werewolf novels "Sweet Moon Dreams" and "Blood Moon" are coming out 2007 from Samhain Publishing. They are the first books in the Moon series and are paranormal thrillers.
We would like to thank you for taking time out to talk with us. Is there a place our readers can find you? A website? Email?
Readers can go to my website at www.rosemariewolf.com to read more about my upcoming releases. I can also be emailed at rosemariewolf @ gmail.com (remove the spaces)
I recently completed fieldwork on a study of the neo-pagan and Wiccan community in Los Angeles. The resulting paper has been presented in conferences and sections were printed in an academic journal. I have no doubt that this will be the most boring of the topics presented for the evening but I hope to add a touch of academic. The follow excerpt (never before published) addresses the issue of identification and the ‘right’ to identity with a culture.
Along with being incredibly fascinating the study gave me background and perspective on my writing. Though I do not write paranormals (and certainly not as well as out fair hostesses) in my fantasy stories the spells and rituals are the most realistic parts of the story as I draw them from my observations and studies.
Blessed Be.
Lila www.liladubois.com
Excerpt from study: One incident that typifies this behavior was in the Wicca 101 class when Ann made an inappropriate comment. Fritz was talking about Beltane, one of the eight Sabbats of the year. He was explaining that the Beltane ceremony was one of the most important ceremonies because of all that it represented. Traditionally, Beltane drew the most people to the ceremony at Raven’s Flight because it meant so much to so many different people. Ann broke in saying, “and because it’s fun!” Beltane is the part of the year that celebrates sex and fertility so whereas this comment was meant to be lewdly funny, instead Fritz turned on her. He gave her a set down saying that it was a mistake to degrade Beltane into being all about sex for the sake of sex, and that comments like hers are what give Wicca a bad name, and that a witch should know better. While acknowledging that Ann called herself a witch, Fritz clearly stated in front of the entire class that she was an amateur as far as he was concerned. Fritz, as an insider and high-ranking member of the site was exerting control over the culture as represented through the usage of the term ‘witch.’ He did not have the power or authority to deny her that title or role, because he cannot tell her that she could not call herself a witch, but he discredited her claim to the title in front of all of the members of the class.
For the Wiccan community, there is not only a deep concern about who claims the culture by calling themselves a witch, but also how the culture is perceived by outsiders. Since there is a truly deep history of persecution of those who do claim the culture, it is understandable that there is an effort towards presenting a non-threatening public face. This is also a legitimate strategy used by many movements when attempting to build a mainstream acceptance of existence for a culture not the norm in a particular society. There are exceptions to this rule, particularly people who delight in publicizing their alternative beliefs knowing that there is a certain shock value reaction they will get, however this is not the norm and these people for the most part seem to have personal reasons for choosing to do this. There are many examples of how norming behaviors within a movement has led to greater understanding of the particular culture and standards of behavior within the culture by those outside the culture. The gay and lesbian culture has accomplished this, if not complete acceptance, of the culture by people outside of it. However the Wiccan and Pagan communities have not yet penetrated to the mainstream of American culture to this extent yet. Copyright 2006 E.O.
A cup of candy corn has fewer calories than a cup of raisins.
It's illegal to sell a haunted house in New York without informing the buyer.
Eighty-two percent of children take part in Halloween festivities, as do 67% of adults.
The first jack-o'-lanterns were made of turnips.
"Samhainophobia" is the morbid fear of Halloween.
Halloween is the biggest holiday of the year when it comes to candy sales—estimated at $1.93 billion. One quarter of all the candy sold each year is purchased between September 15 and November 10.
The word witch comes from the Saxon word Wicca, which means "wise one."
Pumpkins also come in white, blue and green.
In France, more than 30,000 werewolf cases were tried between 1520 and 1630.
Dracula is the most filmed story of all time.
The largest pumpkin ever grown weighed 1,469 pounds. It was weighed in on October 1, 2005 at the Pennsylvania Giant Pumpkin Growers Weigh-Off.
Trick-or-treating is an Irish tradition, based on a custom where wealthy landowners would give food to the poor on Halloween night, believing ghosts would look favorably on them for doing so and spare them from mischief.
In Romanian, Dracula means "Son of the Devil."
The Scots believed in "Samhanach," a goblin who came out only on Halloween and stole children.
Halloween costume sales are estimated at $1.5 billion.
Eighty percent of kids say their favorite Halloween candy is either chocolate or gum.
Pumpkins are fruits, not vegetables.
Pennsylvania was the first colony to legalize witchcraft.
There is a poisonous mushroom called a jack-o'-lantern. These mushrooms are a bright orange-yellow in color and on rainy nights they appears to glow in the dark.
Fifty-one percent of all American adults believe in ghosts. Nine percent of Americans claim to have been in the presence of a ghost during their lifetime.
Americans consume about 20 million pounds of candy corn each year.
The Count Dracula Society was founded in 1962.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, people in costumes and masks would go from house to house, singing and dancing to keep evil at bay. These people were known as "guisers."
Americans spend about $50 million on Halloween greetings.
According to studies, the smell of pumpkin pie is the most arousing to women, followed by lavender, cucumbers, baby powder and Good & Plenty candy.
At one time, there were public trials and convictions of animals for witchcraft.
In Lewis, Scotland, Halloween was once celebrated by designating one man to wade into the evening sea and offer a cup of ale to Shoney, a sea god.
In the North of England, Halloween was called "nut-crack" and "snap-apple night."
Ninety-nine percent of pumpkins sold in the U.S. are used to make jack-o'-lanterns.
The first Frankenstein film was produced by Thomas Edison in 1910.
The average U.S. household spends $44 on Halloween candy.
There is a Transylvania County in North Carolina.
According to superstition, you will see your future spouse over your left shoulder in the mirror at midnight on Halloween.
"Wicca phobia" is the fear of witches and witchcraft.
October 30 is National Candy Corn Day.
A popular Halloween drink in 18th century Ireland was "lambs-wool," which consisted of roasted, crushed apples mixed into milk.
Dan Rather was born on Halloween, as was Jane Pauley.
Celts believed black cats were once people who had been turned into animals with evil magic.
Interview, Gia, Psychic/Medium and a Paranormal Investigator
How did you become Psychic/Medium and a Paranormal Investigator? Have you always had the talent, or was it something you developed? Did you inherit your talents and have you passed them on to your children?
I guess you could say, I was born with it. My Great Grandmother, Grandmother were both Psychic/Mediums. My family found out I was inheriting tje gifts at the age of 4. My son is now developing his abilites, and my grandson, who is now 4 is showing signs of being Psychic. I started my Paranormal Investigations over 20 years ago.
Do you consider you abilities a gift?
In the early years I felt it was a curse, but at the age of 22 I realized that it was never going away...So I embraced it. Yes, It's a gift and a blessing now.
It's mentioned you worked with police and the FBI. Can you share anything about the cases you've been involved with?
I've worked mostly Missing Children cases. In one case the body needed to be found for a conviction. It was a 14 yr old "cold case". I was able to help them find her.
Other than on investigations, what have your paranormal experiences been?
I've had so many. I don't know where to start.
Do you believe in the existence of ghosts? Have you seen proof of such phenomenon? Ghosts? Spirits?
Yes:::Laughing::::I see them all the time.
What other paranormal creatures, phenomenon do you believe in? Past life regression?
I've seen demons. I know to some that's hard to grasp, but they exsist.
What thoughts do you have on Hollywood’s portrayal of psychics/sensitives? Is there one you feel is more accurate than the rest? One you wish you could throw your shoe at?
I know that Hollywood has to embelish to get an audience. The one that is closest to the real thing, is " Medium " I like the way they portray her. Just a down to earth woman who is trying to juggle being a good Mother and Wife who has Dreams/Premonitions and Spirits that take her away from alot of important family things. (Reminds me of me quite a bit ). I'd really like to throw my shoe at another show ( that I won't name ) Don't want to get people mad ::::::laughing:::::
I hear you're writing a book about your experiences? Anything you'd like to share?
It's about my struggle with living in a time where being a Psychic and a Meduim was looked at as the " Devils Work". And what I have found and experienced over the years , ie: demon, spirits , ect. The book is called " The Three Visitors : A Mediums Story "
Michelle and I would like to take this moment to thank you for joining our Paranormal Theme Day.
1. Tell us a little about yourself, who you are, what, in the field of paranormal, do you do and how long have you been doing it?
I am Dave Schrader, host of Darkness on the Edge of Town Paranormal Radio Show. We air every Sunday night and stream the show live on the internet at www.DarknessRadio.com. We began airing shows on Jan 01, 2006 and have had the chance to speak with some of the biggest experts in the field of the paranormal. I began this show because of my personal interest in the unknown and my own personal experiences.
2. Was there a seminal moment when you decided this was what you wanted to do?
No, not 1 moment. I am intrigued by the unseen forces at work around us. I am also terrified of death so I believe by researching and learning along with my listeners perhaps I can overcome this fear. I have had the chance to see the spirits of my grandparents after they passed, heard voices speak from thin air, dealt with dark forces in my home. So it is the culmination of all of that that spurs on my passion to get the answers.
3. What topic within the realm of paranormal interests you most?
The afterlife and where we go and what happens to us when we die. I am also interested in UFO and cryptozoology and the advancements we are making in the finding of new species on this planet every month.
4. Is there a favorite time or experience revolving around either the discussion of the paranormal or a personal experience you'd like to share with us?
I would say hosting the paranormal cross fire event at this years Penn State, Univ-Con 5 paranormal conference will always stick out with me. To be part of something with so many speakers and professionals offering so many insights into the paranormal.
5. How can our readers find you?
Visit our website at www.DarknessRadio.com to listen to Live shows or the archives we have placed on our site. I also invite then to join our BB and sign up for some of the paranormal retreats we take with celeb ghost hunters, like the one coming up Jan 14-17th aboard the haunted Queen Mary in Long Beach Ca. We will be joined by Donna and Lisa from TAPS, Chris Fleming from Dead Famous and Patrick Burns from Haunting Evidence. There will be other great speakers and some surprises along the way.
Again, thank you so much for taking time out with us today.
There will be lots of prizes, interviews, excerpts. Below is a list of the wonderful authors who will be joining us. If you can't make it, more will be posted here on this blog, and excerpts will be saved in the Raven group's file section.
If you're unfamiliar with the Raven, it's a FREE online paranormal story written by Michelle M Pillow and Mandy M Roth!
To celebrate NCP's tenth anniversary, they've brought together five of our bestselling authors in Phoenix Rising I to write steamy novellas in all our reader's favorite genres...
Nightshade by Morgana de Winter (Fantasy Romance): Which one's the real beast? The abusive husband who tried to kill her? Or the gargoyle, Nightshade, who not only saved her life, but taught her something she had never known...passion?
Deception's Calling by Marie Harte (Paranormal Romance): In the Specter Squad, Lt. Drake Nichols is referred to as Lt. Hotbod. Newbie Det. Summer Michaels knows the 'boss' is off limits but she can't seem to get the man out of her mind.
Arrested Desires by Michelle M. Pillow (Futuristic Romance): Evicted from her home on Baida Prime without a credit to her name by her soon to be ex-husband, Juliana Harrison has little choice but to take the deliciously handsome Officer Maverick Perkins up on his offer...
The Wolf of Cnoc Meadha by Sherrill Quinn (Paranormal Romance): Queen Una of the Daoine Sidhe is playing at a little matchmaking for her son Connor, the Faolchú Cnoc Meadha--The Wolf of Cnoc Meadha.
Morpheus by Alicia Sparks (Paranormal Romance): Anna took the job writing for the magazine Metal Alloy to be closer to Grey, the lead singer for the band Morpheus. Now he has invaded her dreams.
While there, you can check out Phoenix Rising II a second collection with Angelique Anjou, Elizabeth Batten-Carew, Jaycee Clark, Donna Grant, Mandy M. Roth
Everyone's welcome to stop by and comment, don't be shy! I tend to keep it relaxed around here.
Want to hear me blog about a topic? Have an idea for a blog theme day? Want your blog on my blogroll? Want to contemplate the different shades of red toenail polish? Feel free to email! michelle_pillow@yahoo.com