I have become a staunch anti-Valentine´s Day crusader, nevertheless, I received something far better than roses and chocolates this morning. A glowing review of Wings At Dawn by the Online Book Club that I am absolutely thrilled to share with you here. [Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Wings At Dawn" by Marie Balustrade.]... Continue Reading →
It is not often that I find an English translation to a German poem that I am satisfied with, but in the case of Hermann Hesse´s Stufen, many concur that the translation by Walter A. Aue is one, if not THE best translation thus far. Here the original Stufen Stairs into the blue ©FrogDiva Photography... Continue Reading →
Christmas season is hectic, and each year I promise myself that I will not be dragged into the rush and commercialism. So far I have managed to trim down and cut a lot of corners, but have nevertheless ended up on the receiving end of other people's hectic schedules. This is not always a bad... Continue Reading →
As many of you know, my dearest feline companion Champagne crossed the rainbow bridge last November. She has left a huge vacuum in my life both as my constant shadow and co-writer. She sat patiently with me through the long nights while I wrote or researched, regardless of whether it was a book, blog, translation,... Continue Reading →
Sorrow Lake ©FrogDiva Photography In spring of youth it was my lotTo haunt of the wide world a spotThe which I could not love the less-So lovely was the lonelinessOf a wild lake, with black rock bound,And the tall pines that towered around.But when the Night had thrown her pallUpon that spot, as upon all,And... Continue Reading →
When writing a novel, one of the crucial elements in addition to a damn good plot, is substantial characters that incite a range of emotions from the reader. Does the villain truly make your reader want to jump into the book and murder him his/herself? Can you laugh and cry with the lead characters? Are... Continue Reading →
There is a wonderful poem of Dr. Maya Angelou that I don't come across very often but encapsulates my state of mind on good days, and manifests the hesitation that every writer has at the beginning of a project: Life Adventures don't frighten me ©FrogDiva Photography Shadows on the wallNoises down the hallLife doesn't frighten... Continue Reading →
If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you But make allowance for their doubting too;If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or, being lied about, don’t deal in lies,Or, being hated, don’t give... Continue Reading →
Here is a golden nugget from my archives that I unearthed last night in a fit of insomnia. This is dedicated to all those struggling with their craft and searching for purpose, regardless of whether you are a writer, photographer, artist, dancer. May you find the courage, meaning and direction. The pencil maker took the... Continue Reading →
