About
I am a writer of dark fantasy from rural Mississippi, currently living a suburban life with my family. "Act of Redemption" is the first of the four-part "Gastar Series," published in 2009. The second of the series, "Children of Discord" is upcoming in the next few weeks. I am an Indie writer, and a history buff, most notably WW1.
Description
<p>When Jessica Bryant pesters her wealthy parents to allow her to have a dog as a pet, the answer is a resounding "No"; but they soon come to regret their decision when thier home is broken into one evening whilst they are out and their daughter kidnapped and held for ransom. The kidnappers, in the form of four seedy and incompetent characters wearing Disneyland-type masks, take her hostage and keep her incarcerated in a place from which there appears to be no escape. However, they reckon without the resourcefulness of our heroine, and the courage of a wonderful stray dog who comes to her aid and whom she names 'Murdo'. And so begins an exciting and humurous accounting of the couples' adventures together as they consistently foil and outwit the abductors whilst on the run together.<br /> This is a lovely story of the friendship between a girl and a dog, bringing out themes of responsibility, camaraderie, redemption, salvation and self-sacrifice. It includes some wonderful dialogue sequences as Jessica teaches her new four-legged friend how to communicate with her, with additional delightful conversations between the animals when a rabbit and a sparrow join forces with them in an effort to outwit the kidnappers and restore Jessica safely back to her parents' home. </p>
Story Behind The Book
I began writing as a creative outlet following the death of my sister due to a domestic violence episode. While I didn't consciously include my sister, myself, or any members of my family while writing "Act of Redemption" input from my readers pointed out that the character Shevata is "stuck" in a curse as a teenager, unable to move on with her life. The series follows her journey to regain her humanity.
I agree that when my sister died, I was in shock and, like the readers noted, was 'stuck' for a long time, unable to accept that she was gone. But faith, family, friends, and creativity enabled me to find closure and the inner peace I needed.
As part of my initial ad campaign for "Act of Redemption," I attempt to increase awareness of domestic violence, as anyone of any age, gender or background can fall victim to it.
Reviews
www.kidzworld.com/.../21615-act-of-redemption-book-review<br />www.mangamaniaccafe.com/?p=4228<br />www.sheknows.com/health-and.../domestic-abuse-dealing-with-death<br />www.hotindienews.com/2009/07/20/105350<br />www.goodreads.com/author/show/4056757.Thomas_C_Stone<br />www.midwestbookreview.com/mbw/nov_09.htm<br />www.amazon.com/First...Act-Redemption/.../1434379329
