Chandra's Quest Paperback Book

 

I’ve just re-uploaded the paperback edition of Chandra's Quest, and it should be available for purchase in just a few days. I want to mention that I had to raise the price of the paperback due to its substantial length of 567 pages. Unfortunately, KDP has some restrictions that prevent authors from setting their own prices, making it challenging to offer a lower cost. For those interested in getting a copy, I plan to buy some and sell them through my eBay shop. As you can see from the image, the book has a thick spine, reflecting its considerable content, so be prepared for a lengthy read!

I’ve combined parts 1 through 3 of A Time Traveler's Companion for release on Google Play, and I’m excited to share that the audiobook will soon be available there as well. I’m currently working on merging parts 4 to 6, which will also be accessible on Google Play. It’s important to note that this book contains sexual content, so there are appropriate disclaimers and warnings included. In a few weeks, the eBook version will be launched on Amazon, and you can find the link on my Facebook page and other social media platforms, though I won’t be sharing it on this blog. Additionally, the link will be featured on CG Heandez's blog, so keep an eye out for that!

 I’m currently immersed in the writing of A Path Less Taken: The Phoenix Files Vol. 2. This next installment promises to delve deeper into the intriguing world of the Phoenix Files, and I can’t wait for readers to experience it. You can look forward to its release next year on Amazon, where it will be available for purchase. Additionally, for those who prefer listening to their stories, the audiobook version will be accessible on Google Play, making it easy to enjoy the narrative on the go. 

NOTE: Flare is now available through KDP Select and the audiobook is available on GooglePlay. Visit Linktree to access CG Heandez website. 

Trigger warnings: FLARE  has 18 & over content.

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It's Not About AI!

 

As an indie author, I'm growing increasingly frustrated with the constant accusations that writers are relying on AI simply because their work is polished and articulate. It's disheartening to see talent dismissed in this way, as if good writing can only come from technology rather than genuine creativity and effort. 

I believe that those making accusations against self-published authors are often just trolls or bots looking to cause strife. So, it's not about AI, it's about being insulting and cruel to the Indie Author community. The majority of them work hard on their books. Indie authors are minding their own business, doing their own thing. Are you? 

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CECILE GARCIA

Lost in the Backrooms: Chapter 9 Through the Fields and Home

 

(An excerpt from Chapter 9, Lost in the Backrooms: The Phoenix Files vol. 1)

“There’s nothing out of the ordinary here, just an old, abandoned house,” Jane said. They went downstairs and saw a door in the kitchen that they hadn’t seen before. Jane opened it.

  “It looks like a basement,” MK noted. They hesitated and she took out a flashlight before they descended. The basement is filled with cobwebs and dust everywhere; the walls are made of old bricks which are decaying and breaking apart, the room smells like death. “Ugh, this place smells so bad,” said MK, covering her nose with her hand. Jane did the same.

“No telling if there’s black mold here or anything thing else that can kill us by inhaling the air,” said Jane. The basement had one small window, covered with soot and cobwebs. MK noticed a white door on the other side of the room.

“Well, what do you think?”

“I guess we should go in,” Jane carefully opened the door and walked through. They were back in the yellow maze of the Backrooms once again.

“Oh no,” MK said, feeling disheartened but there is a hint of hope in her, “Jane, I believe that we will find our way out this time, I’m certain,” she said, optimistically but Jane is losing hope. MK’s abilities have increased, and now she will be able to guide them through. They continued their journey, their hair disheveled, cascading loosely down their shoulders, no longer in a ponytail; rips on their clothes with blood stains from the creatures they had slain, and a strange cough suddenly started to plague them. They both drank some almond water, and it temporarily tamed their cough. 

“Why are we coughing?” MK wondered aloud. “We didn’t have this issue when we first entered the Backrooms. It feels like it kicked in after we left that last area we were in,” MK continued, trying to piece together what might have triggered it.

“I think it’s the exposure to this other dimension, or maybe the basement of that house.” MK took a deep breath and coughed.

“Maybe we should’ve been wearing masks all the time,” Jane remarked.

 MK stopped, “I sense something coming.” They brandished their weapons, Jane aimed her pistol, ready for anything that might attack them, while MK raised her sword. 

Around the corner emerged a creature with insect-like limbs, its torso had four arms with two fingered claws. “What the Hell is that?” Jane exclaimed. The head of the creature has two almond shaped eyes on each side, white in color with a red rim around the iris, its mouth has sharp jagged teeth, but as it screeched, strange foot long tentacles emerged from the mouth. “It started out human,” said MK, staring at the eldritch abomination.

 “Can you communicate with it?” MK tried but the creature was unreachable. She can see darkness and pain. It desires flesh, human flesh. MK gulped, “We are food,” she said. As it approached, it lunged at them. Jane shot several rounds into its head, bringing it down. MK took her sword and sliced the legs off.  “Give it mercy, may it rest in peace,” said Jane, delivering the final blow, blood gushed around the body. As it died, MK saw flashes of who he once was. She gasped, “He was a Hunter, one of us.”

“Oh no,” said Jane, a dismal look shadowed her face as she stared at the creature.

She sighed, “I wonder who he was?”

“I think his name was Micah?”

“I’ll inform Father Patrick when we get back, if we get back.” Her faith is faltering; her patience is wearing thin. The maddening buzz of the fluorescent lights lingers above them. They no longer have their earplugs, because they lost them. They both said a silent prayer for their fallen comrade.

 “Let’s keep moving,” said Jane, with a sigh. They came across a hallway, with many doors on each side. They tried to open several doors but to no avail. The last door at the end is white with gold hinges and a doorknob. They looked at each other, MK gave Jane a nod. Jane cautiously opened the door. They found themselves in an abandoned house with graffiti all around the walls, the sound of birds chirping signaled that their ordeal was over. They smiled and hugged each other, overwhelmed by the feeling of triumph and elation. Tears of joy ran down their cheeks. Jane kissed MK on her lips, she blushed.

 “Oh my God, we’re home,” Jane said, overjoyed. As they emerged out of the front door of the abandoned house, they stood looking down at the neighborhood street and noticed overgrown weeds and cracked asphalt. Several homes were incomplete; the others are in disarray and decaying from abandonment and neglect. “I wonder if this was one of those communities that were abandoned and never completed because of the housing crisis,” said MK. Jane nodded and looked around, “I think it’s noon. I don’t know where we are.” 

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Lost in the Backrooms: Excerpt from Chapter 4

 

(An excerpt from Lost in the Backrooms: The Phoenix Files vol. 1, Chapter 4)

An energy burst swooped through Jane and MK as they fell onto the dingy yellow carpeted floor. Jane quickly jumped up onto her feet, grabbed her crossbow from the backpack and held it tightly in her hands as she looked around vigilantly. MK stood up, “Damn that was a drop,” she said, feeling a bit dizzy. “Shh, keep your voice to a whisper, remember that even though it seems like this place is empty, it’s not.”

 “Okay,” MK mouthed. The sound of the florescent lights sounded above like bees in a hive.

 “They are kinda loud but not that bad,” MK pointed at them, Jane nodded.

  “Father Patrick gave me these,” Jane handed MK earplugs.

 “This will muffle out the buzzing a bit. They are comfy but useful and they are also ear-coms,” said Jane. They both put earplugs in their ears. “I don’t hear the buzzing as much now, though I’m sure it will get louder as we move onward.” MK tested the ear-coms by tapping on the bud of the device.

 “Can you hear me?” Jane nodded then took out the tracker that Father Patrick gave her. The tracker is the size of a flip-phone from the 2000’s. It has a silver cross embedded at the center. “Nothing,” Jane whispered. “The girl would’ve popped up on the tracker if she was close, but nothing yet.”

A worried look shadowed her face. “Don’t worry Jane, we’ll find her and maybe some of the others that may have disappeared.” 

“Maybe but our first priority is Talia, that’s who we are here for.” They proceeded onward, stopping to look around, taking in the sights. MK gulped, “So, I wonder if they can see us through the bodycam?” asked MK.

 “I think, but not sure. They can see what we can see but he didn’t say anything about the bodycams receiving sound. I believe that it does but for how long the devices will work, I don’t know,” said Jane as she looked around at the grotesque yellow wallpaper, dingy carpet and the florescent lights that flicker above.

 “There’s a smell here,” MK noted.

 “Yeah, I noticed it too,” Jane responded. They walked on for what seemed like hours.

“Maybe we should rest,” MK suggested. Jane saw a dirty brown couch and a table, just sitting there in the middle of a room. “What the Hell?” she mouthed. She pointed at the couch; MK looked.

They walked over to it and Jane inspected the room. “It seems okay, other than the couch being dirty and smelly,” she said as her nose wrinkled in disgust. She sat down, resting her backpack next to her feet and setting the crossbow down on the table. MK set her backpack down too. They sat in silence for a moment, listening. They are not sure if they will come across any of the infamous creatures of the Backrooms, but they have remained conscientious of their surroundings. Jane opened her backpack and took out a water bottle, MK did the same. They took out energy bars and started eating.

“They could’ve given us sandwiches, but they chose energy bars. Guess they are trying to get us used to them. I wonder how long we’ve been here. It doesn’t seem like we’ve been here long,” said MK and took a sip from her water bottle.

“I don’t know, time moves differently in this place, and we might’ve been in here for a week or more now.” At a distance they can hear indiscernible sounds that are hard to interpret. Jane stopped chewing, took out one of her earplugs and listened. Their eyes shot open. Jane gulped, “I get that whatever it is might seem distant right now, but I truly believe our paths are meant to intersect eventually,” she said and continued eating the bar. MK noticed a medium-sized clock hanging on the wall. It showed 10:10. “I wonder what time of the day it was,” she asked.

“What time of the day was what?” Jane stared at the clock. 

“I wonder what time of the day it was when the dimensions merged, and everything stopped unbeknownst to many who were working and living in the Backrooms. According to what I’ve read, the first victims of the creatures that began to filter through were the ones that were in a cafeteria,” MK said. Jane glanced at MK and took out the map from her backpack. 

“Where did you get that?” MK asked.

 “Father Patrick put it into the backpack. He wasn’t sure if it would be helpful because the map is going by the first model of the Backrooms,” she unfolded the map. “According to this, the cafeteria is another three miles away from here and in that direction is the library. However, the Backrooms tend to change.” Jane marked the spot with a marker. 

 "This place is like a maze," MK said, taking a moment to look around. "But seriously, these people seem to have had it all. I’m curious if they have showers and bathrooms too, because I haven’t spotted any yet," she remarked while sipping from her water bottle.

 "I get what you mean, but once those creatures got in, it was game over. The people in charge tried to seal off big parts of the Backrooms, but by then, it was already too late." Jane glanced at MK and asked, "Do you need to use the bathroom?"

MK replied, "Yes, but it can wait." Jane smirked and scoffed, saying, "I need to go as well." 

She then turned her attention to the map, looking for restrooms. “Hmm, it looks like there might be restrooms in that direction. We’ll head that way in a bit, but if they don’t have any, well I guess we’ll just have to

do our business at some corner. The carpet is messed up anyways and it smells like people have been urinating throughout the Backrooms,” said Jane, referring to that moldy, dreadful smell. She put the map back into her backpack.

 “This place already smells like feces,” said MK, rubbing her nose in disgust.

Jane chuckled, “I guess so. When I read the file back in the office, there was something in there about killing a creature and if you kill one, others will come, so let’s try to avoid killing anything yet, if possible.”

 MK nodded and said, “I wonder if it’s because they are connected.” Jane thought about that for a moment and said, “Maybe but nevertheless, we will have to be as quiet and vigilant as possible.” They finished eating their energy bars and saved the rest.

 “Well, we better head onward.” They picked up their backpacks and continued walking. Suddenly Jane stopped, “I think it picked up something,” she said, looking at the tracker. A red dot appeared faintly on the screen.

 “Could it be her?” asked MK, looking around, her eyes scanning the endless void of rooms, hallways, and corridors. She senses something else too. “There’s something out there and it’s not human, but I feel that it once was human.” Jane looked at her and they proceeded onward. They came across a wooden crate. “Should we attempt to look inside? Father Patrick said almond water is vital in this place,” MK mentioned. Jane nodded and they headed toward the crate, looking around cautiously. They tried to pry it open, but the lid didn’t budge. Jane opened her backpack and took out a screwdriver. 

“Guess they thought of everything,” she said, referring to the items in the backpack. The nails began to loosen. The lid fell to the carpet. They froze, afraid that the noise might attract unwanted attention. Jane looked around. MK searched through the crate.

“Oh look,” she pulled out several energy bars. “Well, I was hoping for beef jerkies or something else, but we need everything we can get,” said Jane. They packed a few Almond waters and more energy bars. “You know, our backpacks are getting a little chunky, I hope we’ll be able to move if we are attacked,” MK made a good point. 

“We can toss them on the floor if that happens. I’m not expecting to get attacked soon but I hear you.”

“I was wondering, how can one child survive in this place. If those creatures are around, wouldn’t she have already been dead?” 

Jane pondered, and replied, “True, Father Patrick did not specify how long she has been here, maybe she found a hidden room or something where she might be safe, I really don’t know. But I am sure that whatever way we find her, we must bring her home dead or alive.” MK nodded, “Let’s hope it’s not the latter.” Jane agreed. 

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Chapter 9 Excerpt

Where Does Remi Live?

 

Curious readers have asked me about the residence of Remi, the protagonist in A Time Traveler’s Companion. In the opening chapter, it is revealed that she lives close to the Menifee Hill hiking trails. Her two-story home overlooks a park, and an elementary school is conveniently located nearby, which is significant since her son attends the same school she did as a child. This proximity to the trails adds depth to her character and setting. For those familiar with Menifee, the details may lead them to pinpoint the exact community where she resides. Please do consider that the character is fictional and not based on a real person; not to my knowledge. The book is available on Google Play in parts.

I welcome any questions about any of my books, and it's worth noting that A Time Traveler’s Companion is published under a different pen name. You can find the link to the book below.

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Other Books with Similar Titles

 

It was recently pointed out to me that there are a few books with titles similar to mine. After doing some research, I found only two that stand out: Chandra’s Quest and In the Company of Elves.

It seems that authors with titles similar to mine have emerged only in recent years. In contrast, my book, Chandra’s Quest, was actually written in the late 90s and published in the early 2000s. In the Company of Elves was written in the 2000s, the first edition published in 2009. I revised both of my books in the 2010s, and the only one that shares a somewhat similar storyline is In the Company of Elves. 

Chandra’s Quest, authored by Barbara A Miller, is a modern romance set in a rural backdrop, focusing on themes of love and connection. In contrast, my own work, which shares a similar title, delves into the realms of sci-fi fantasy, exploring imaginative worlds and futuristic concepts. While both genres offer unique narratives, they cater to different tastes and interests in storytelling. 

It's worth noting that titles can't be copyrighted unless they're exceptionally unique, so there's no basis for copyright infringement claims in that regard. The same goes for names and ideas. As the original author of Chandra’s Quest and In the Company of Elves, I can only speak for my own works. However, I might just buy Chandra’s Quest by Barbara Miller, let’s just say, I’m curious. 

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Where Does Remi Live?

Chandra's Quest Excerpt: Chapter 29 the Sanctuary

 

They are closer to the entrance to Sanctuary but not close enough. They all breathed a sigh of relief, except Chandra. It was her thoughts of Xenos that brought him closer to her.

“He could have found us. I must stop thinking about him,” she thought. High above the trees, they heard what sounded like a ship, hovering above.

“Shit! What is that!” shouted Carlos. “It better not be what I think it is.” He pulled out his pistol. Treau’s eyes glazed over for a minute or two, then he regained his composure. “Chandra, we need to get closer to the clearing where the monolith is located,” he urged, his voice filled with urgency.

“Alright, I’ll do my best,” Chandra replied, cradling the stone in her hands, feeling the pulse of the Hymnu resonate within her spirit. In that moment, a vision struck her. Above them hovered a NyKarin ship. Soran is on board! Another vision followed, revealing that Xenos was near, his steps growing faster. Chandra inhaled sharply, a heavy sigh escaping her lips as she returned the stone to her pouch.

“What are you doing?” Carlos asked, panic rising in his tone. A grim expression clouded her face.

“A NyKarin ship is above us and Xenos is close, perhaps I should just surrender and keep you guys safe.”

“No! Try again,” Keeja shouted. Chandra felt a surge of determination from the worried tone in her friend's voice. "This place has a certain magic, and you possess something that could lead us to the sanctuary. Please, give it another shot," Keeja urged. In an instant, they found themselves in a clearing, the force that brought them there leaving them slightly disoriented, causing Keeja to retch. Treau, however, remained steady.

"That was exhilarating!" Chandra exclaimed as she steadied herself. Keeja's gaze was drawn to a massive monolith in the distance, and Treau pointed it out. It loomed majestically at the center of the clearing. “Wow look at that,” Keeja stared in awe. Carlos’ eyes shot open, and a hint of fear shadowed his face. They walked in the direction of the monolith. As they approached, Treau stopped.  “A ship is approaching.”

  “What?” Chandra looked up and a ship wobbled recklessly above them. The energy that the forest emits tinkers with the ship’s engine and the Lithum crystals that power the ship are being drained quickly. The NyKarin scout ship is in danger of crashing, the longer it hovers. Chandra stares up at the heavily tinted windows of the craft. “It is Soran, isn’t it,” she said, in a hush tone.

 “No, but the ship is NyKarin,” Treau responded, he gestured at them to continue the trek toward the monolith. “I thought he would come himself,” she said.

 “Your vision showed you one possibility, and in this timeline, he chose not to come,” Treau conceded. Chandra let out a sigh of relief, “I suppose that is good,” she said with a hint of uncertainty. The NyKarin ship ascended and left. They arrived at their destination. “Wow! Look at this thing,” Keeja said, as she touched the cold surface of the 8-foot-high stone structure towering before them.

“It has a doorway carved into it,” said Chandra, as she looked up at the towering monolith. They marched onward. Chandra senses that they are being watched. She glanced over her shoulder, warily. “Interesting structure. How long has it been here?” asked Keeja.

“It has been here for over 1000 years or longer,” said Treau. Keeja exclaimed, "Wow, so no one has ever seen this before?" Her eyes, filled with wonder, she gazed up at the colossal monolith. The intricate patterns etched into its base were both enigmatic and captivating. “Who created this?” Chandra asked, her fingers tracing the edges of the doorway as she examined it closely. Peering through, all she could make out was the opposite side of the forest—nothing remarkable. Yet, an unsettling and strange aura surrounded it. “I don’t see any structures on the other side,” she remarked, puzzled. As she reached her hand through, it suddenly vanished. “What the Hell!” Chandra exclaimed, yanking her hand back and inspecting it carefully, ensuring all her fingers were intact. She glanced at Keeja, who looked equally shaken. “Lady Linnea will clarify everything once we step through,” Treau assured them as he gestured to them to go through the doorway. Chandra hesitated. Carlos exhaled. “Why are you hesitating,” he asked her. She looks back at the forest, worried. “We will be safe there,” he reassured her. Keeja will not walk through, if Chandra does not, so Chandra gave her a nod to proceed. “Well, I guess we better go then,” she said. Carlos gathered his things and walked through and disappeared. Chandra jumped with a start. She gasped and looked at Keeja.

 “Wow!” Keeja exclaimed. Suddenly, they heard a loud screech from a distance. They spun around. “That doesn’t sound like the forest.” Chandra froze. Her eyes narrowed, trying to see through the distant trees. A Javarin is coming out of the brush. Carlos popped his head through the doorway, in time to see Xenos speeding towards them!  “Quick, come through!” Treau pulled Keeja through, Chandra hesitated. “Chandra, cross over now!” Carlos called out.  “I can’t believe he is here,” she froze and murmured, “No. I have to go through,” and she ran through the doorway. Xenos increased his speed but failed to catch them. He abruptly stopped in front of the monolith. "What is going on here?" he muttered to himself. Chandra turned around and fixed her gaze on him; he could see her standing just across the way.

 "I’m really sorry, but I have to do this. Farewell for now, Xenos. Until we meet again," Chandra said clearly. Xenos couldn’t hear her, but the serious expression on her face spoke volumes. "No!" he yelled, frustration bubbling over. Chandra turned and started to walk away from the door. Even though she was just a few steps from the entrance, Xenos found himself unable to move forward. He attempted to step through, but it was no use. His steps took him to the same spot, back in front of the doorway every time he attempted to walk through. He is confounded, thrown off balance by the many times he attempted to go through. The dizziness hit him hard, bringing him to his knees. All his efforts have gone to waste. His frustration took its toll. As soon as he gained his balance, he shot his weapon at the monolith, but it did not affect it. No scratches or marks appeared. It stood strong. “What is this thing?” he said out loud. He walked to a boulder nearby and sat down. He exhaled and was befuddled by what he just witnessed.

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Chandra's Quest Excerpt Chapter 23 Waking Up

 

(An excerpt from Chandra's Quest Chapter 23)

   It’s been almost three weeks since Xenos and Dukar were taken to the moon Dyna. Their bodies were found inside the ship as they lay on the floor. The maintenance crew discovered them and quickly notified the guards. They were then transported to the nearby urgent care facility in the city of Xyra on the moon Dyna.

   “Damn it!” Xenos let out an exasperated sigh, as he lay in the infirmary. Dukar is in the bed next to him, and both have suffered temporary amnesia and a case of paralysis of the legs, however, they are recovering.

Anger is seething inside Xenos’ heart as memories of what had transpired on that faithful day start to emerge, the day he lost Chandra. He let out a heavy sigh.

  “She must have been in cahoots with that Valurin!” he said out loud. Dukar stirred, he turned his head to face Xenos.

“I do not think so. Calm yourself friend, we will find him, and he will pay for stealing what is rightfully ours. In the meantime, enjoy your stay here,” he joked dryly.

 The food is divine,” he added with a touch of sarcasm. “Where do you think he took her?” asked Xenos, his nostrils flared.

 “I do not know,” Dukar responded.

Xenos rubbed his eyes with one hand and groaned. “Well, my friend I guess we’ll have to head back to

Crea and do our research and find out what happened,” Dukar paused, “Someone must know something,” he exhaled.

“Of course, someone knows, they probably helped him escape!” Xenos raged.

 Dukar grimaced, “You’re right but we must ameliorate. When we are better, we’ll tear some throats out. Deal?” The nurse stepped in.

  “Do either of you need anything?” she kindly asked. Her raven-colored hair is elegantly styled in a bun, while her striking blue, feline-like eyes sparkle with a playful grin. The fitted white top, with its zipper, accentuates her curves beautifully, and her matching miniskirt highlights her alluring figure. The nurse's outfit she wears is undeniably provocative. Dukar can't help but notice the hint of cleavage peeking through.

 “No, fool! When can we leave this place?” Xenos said. She jumps at his sudden outburst, her blue eyes widening in surprise. Flustered, she lets out a nervous laugh, narrowing her gaze.

 “Uh, you’ll need to discuss that with the doctor.” In her hand, she holds a nine by seven glass tablet, scrolling through their medical records. Xenos pays no mind, he is worried that they will find out who he is and inform the authorities.

So far, Xenos’ identity has not turned up, only the medical file that was started at the urgent care hospital when both Dukar and him were admitted.

 As far as the staff is concerned, Xenos and Dukar are new patients, nothing more. The nurse cleared her throat. “At the Oasis Clinic on Xyra, we do not pry into our patient’s past, the doctors are here to assist and help with any aliments you may have,” she informed them of their policy rights and continues, “It seems your legs remain unresponsive. Can you sense anything at all?” she asked, her eyes still scanning their file.  “Sadly, no,” Xenos replied with a heavy heart. 

 “I can feel something in my left leg,” Dukar interjected. 

 “Oh, let’s check that out.” She pulled back the bed sheet and retrieved a reflex tester, which sent out a small electrical charge to assess the patients' reflexes. As she moved it along his leg, Dukar's leg gave a slight twitch. A smile spread across her face.

  “Good, it looks like...,” Dukar grabs her arm abruptly.

“Listen sweetie, I can give you a sturdy number of credits if you let us leave here,” his grip tightened, and his nails dig into her skin.

 “Let me go!” she shouted and gave him a swift shock with a pen size taser.

  “Argh!” Dukar jerked his hand away.  

 “Your reflexes on the upper part of your body are doing well,” she responded, with a touch of sarcasm.

 “Bitch!” Dukar growled, “Your bedside manner leaves much to be desired!” he remarked with a hint of sarcasm. She retreated to the wall, hit the button beside the door, triggering the alarm, and made her exit.

"Dukar, you seemed a bit threatening to her. And don't forget, we need to remain here until we've completely recovered," Xenos pointed out.

 “I was just simply flirting with the girl,” Dukar laughed. He grinned and closed his eyes. A few minutes later two security guards, the nurse, and the doctor walked in. 

The Comigaen doctor approached them, his white fitted jumpsuit and matching boots giving him a sleek appearance. "Ah, I see you're awake," he remarked, a hint of professionalism in his tone. The gold-threaded medical emblem on the right side of his upper chest gleamed, proudly displaying the name of the city, Xyra, beneath it. He pulled out his tablet, deftly scrolling through the screen to assess their condition.  “Yes, we are,” responded Xenos, acerbically.

“They want to be released doctor,” the nurse said, eyeing them with disdain.

 “Hmm, you still have another day or two here. I cannot release you yet or I wouldn’t be a good doctor if I did,” he chuckled. Both Javarins bare their teeth, in a threatening manner. The nurse shook her head disapprovingly.

 “Oh, come now, your stay here will be pleasant and relaxing, think of it as a mini vacation,” the doctor said with a casual chuckle. The nurse scoffed, her eyes narrowing in disdain as she glanced at them.

With a haughty tone, she remarked, “They’re not even worth the effort to save.” They ignored her disparaging remark. “What happened to our ship? How did we end up here?” asked Xenos, curiously. “Well, the report states, that the person who flew the cargo ship to Xyra, left it at the docking port and never returned.

The maintenance workers found both of you unresponsive, so the authorities were called in and you were brought here.”  Xenos gasped, “Oh no, the authorities got involved,” he mused.

 “Did they find the person who piloted the cargo ship?” asked Dukar, eager to hear some good news.

 “You can find the information you want when you are released. The cargo ship is held at the same docking port it was left at,” the doctor paused, “I take it that the cargo ship is not yours?”

 “No!” Dukar responded harshly.

  "Oh, I see, well then, I recommend you take some time to rest, and in a few days, you should be able to leave. By then, the gas should have cleared from your system, and you’ll feel significantly better."

 "Great," Xenos grumbled quietly, barely audible. As the doctor and nurse exited, two security officers remained stationed outside the door.

  "I’m curious why they have security here if we can’t even get up," Dukar pondered aloud.

  “Because we are Javarins, and they fear us. They may also know about the NyKarin’s battle with our home world and thus, they may hold us until the NyKarins arrive,” Xenos stated.

“Yes, of course. We might as well rest up, we got some hunting to do after we leave here, and we

will leave, I assure you. We must find the pilot. We need some answers.”

 “Agreed,” responded Xenos.

 “I guess we can board a passenger ship to take us back to the planet Eurleau,” he added. The nurse left the holovision control pad next to Xenos’ hand. He turned it on. The screen materialized a few feet in front of them. “I am going to watch something on this thing for a while. Would you like to watch?” Dukar waved his hand dismissively.

“No,” he said. Xenos channeled the news on Eurleau. On the screen a female Valurin reporter spoke.

“It has been over three weeks since two Atlantean citizens were found dead in the Trinket Shop in the city Aurora. Authorities have found footage from the shop’s security camera and still do not have leads to the whereabouts of the humans who committed such an atrocity. The male is considered armed and dangerous.” 

 The picture on the security footage flashed in front of them. Dukar’s eyes opened wide, and he stared at the screen in dismay. Xenos recognized Carlos, and there was no mistake that the female next to him is Chandra. She looked back for a few seconds as her eyes met the camera.

  “It is them!” said Xenos out loud, “No!” he hollered.

  “She somehow got away! How can that be?” said Dukar. He eyed the footage with disdain and snarled. “That foolish Valurin lost her! Inconceivable!” said Dukar, with a hiss.

“Or perhaps she killed him,” Xenos hinted.

“She must not have known that there was a camera in the building. Why else would she look back and reveal her face?” thought Xenos.

 “Did she know I would see this footage?”  he said aloud.

“Don’t over think it,” Dukar remarked. The other female that was with Chandra never looked back. He could not see her face but there was no mistake, he knew who she was.

Chandra's Quest eBook

Chandra's Quest Audiobook

 Chapter 29 excerpt

About the Phoenix Files

 

The Phoenix Files is more than just a single book titled "Lost in the Backrooms, Volume One"; it is part of a larger anthology series that explores supernatural and paranormal tales. Each volume varies in length, with some exceeding 140 pages, while others are shorter. 

For instance, "Path Less Taken," the second volume, will be just over 120 pages. The concept for The Phoenix Files originated in the mid-2000s, but it wasn't until recent years that I fully committed to incorporating it into my writing aspirations

The series primarily centers on Jane, the main character, and her dynamic with her sidekick, MK, as they tackle various supernatural challenges together. The Phoenix Files will be available for readers on platforms like KDP, Google Play, and Apple Books.

The Phoenix Files

Alternate Universes: West Pacifica

 

West Pacifica

In the world of Chandra’s Quest, the protagonist originates from a place called West Pacifica. This concept first sparked in my mind over a decade ago, and I decided to weave it into my narrative. In this universe, West Pacifica represents the regions of California, Oregon, and Washington. 

In Chandra’s universe, those states never came to be; instead, they evolved into a single nation. I've always been intrigued by the idea of alternate realities. So, when you read this, please don’t assume that my inclusion of West Pacifica in the story is a reaction to our current political situation. That’s not the case at all. 

The concept of West Pacifica actually came to me a long time ago. The concept of West Pacifica was originally intended to be included in the fourth book, Omega. However, after deciding to combine all four books into a single full-length novel, I chose to leave it out. Rest assured, West Pacifica will be addressed and elaborated upon in the prequel to Chandra's Quest, titled A Twist in Time.

Please do visit links below to download Chandra's Quest eBook on Amazon. Visit GooglePlay to download audiobook as well, if you prefer audio. I am currently working on the paperback, to include the changes I made to the original book.

Amazon

Audiobook

About the Phoenix Files

Excerpt from Chandra's Quest

My Author's Q & A's

 

(Once every other month I will post Q & A's that readers have asked me)

Q- Will you be posting new short videos or excerpts on Path Less Taken from the Phoenix Files? I’ve seen that you haven’t posted anything about that book, and I thought that maybe you decided to abandon the project. J. Peters

A-I appreciate your interest in my work! Currently, I'm focused on completing "A Time Traveler's Companion," which is nearly 500 pages long. Once I wrap that up, I plan to finish "Path Less Taken" and will share some short videos and excerpts soon after. 

Q- When will you publish the recent version of Chandra’s Quest on AppleBooks? You mentioned that you combined all four books into one. I would love to read it. Mary Fuentes

A-Regarding "Chandra's Quest," I do intend to release the new version on Amazon and Apple Books, but as mentioned in a previous blog post, it won't be available on GooglePlay and AppleBooks until July. An audiobook is currently being made.

Q- Do you use AI generated images for your short videos? Jessica P

A-Some images in my promotional videos, are AI-generated, but I use them primarily to depict the characters visually for the readers’ entertainment.

Q- I really enjoyed Flare and I would like to know if it is available as an audiobook. ldyVamp

A-I'm glad to hear you enjoyed "Flare” there is indeed an audiobook available on GooglePlay, so feel free to check it out!

Q-I enjoyed reading the book about the Backrooms from the Phoenix Files, will you be writing another one related to the Backrooms? Anonymous

A-There will be another installment in the Phoenix Files series that revisits the Backrooms, specifically in volume 4. It will be available in the future.

(I love receiving questions from readers through social media, and I promise to feature them on my blog in the coming months!)

West Pacifica

Here We Go, Once Again...

 

To my fellow indie/self-published authors: It doesn't matter if you're utilizing certain features available on WordDocX via WordDoc 365, you’re still considered an author. I'm frustrated with people criticizing authors who employ specific writing tools to enhance the quality of their writing. Remember, you understand your audience; you know your audience, those who purchase, download, or listen to your books, let them judge. You are an author, whether you are self-published or not!

My Experience: Twenty-three years ago, self-published authors faced significant criticism on social media, a landscape I was not part of at the time since I didn’t have a Facebook account, I only had MySpace. I shared a link to my book, Chandra’s Quest, on forums and MySpace. I was unfamiliar with eBooks, my book was only available on eBay as a paperback. Despite my efforts, sales were minimal, and I was met with harsh comments on forums from users who had never even read my book but only despised my presence simply because I chose the self-publishing route and was sharing my book

Chandra’s Quest, my first novel, was originally written in the first person but was later revised to a third-person narrative in the 2010s. My encounters with online trolls, who seem to thrive on targeting Indie/self-published authors, have shown me that their tactics remain unchanged; they now use AI as an excuse to accuse writers of using it because their books may not be as bad as they first assumed. 

I have read numerous indie books, I can confidently say that many are well-written, and I don’t perceive any AI influence in them, as I focus on the content rather than the medium. I typically prefer purchasing paperback editions, I’m not looking for AI, only Karens do. 

Look, regardless of whether a writer is using some form of editing tool for their work, people shouldn’t be quick to judge. Personally, it’s taken me two years to write out my book and I am currently editing it but as I do, I am releasing it in parts on GooglePlay until I can merge all parts together into one full length novel. If you are following me on Facebook and other social media websites, I’m sure you know which one I'm referring to. I PREFER to write out my books before editing them thoroughly. Sorry if you thought otherwise.

Here's a thought: When it comes to AI, it's pretty straightforward- you just need to provide a brief prompt, and the AI takes care of the rest. I've come across one or two AI-generated books, and honestly, they weren't impressive. As I've mentioned before, I'm not interested in AI for storytelling; the two I read felt like they were written by someone who didn't put in much effort into them. That's not my style—I prefer to write my stories and refine them using the editing tools available in Word.

The way I see it is, if you're paying for Office365, you might as well take advantage of those features. In the end, people will always have their opinions, and there will be critics and trolls out there, often just reflecting their own ugliness. Ugly is, as Ugly does.

Below are sceenshots that I took of another user's rant on Wattpad reddit about AI & how it has tainted people's view on indie authors works. Not everything is AI & not all authors, especially indie authors use AI. If you're on a crusade in calling out people who use AI for certain creative endeavors, then you have issues. You're not perfect and before pointing the finger at someone else, look in the mirror.

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