Green Hell

Sailing to the wild, untamed jungles of South America in the 1930’s, Nicholas is filled with anticipation and thoughts of adventure. Narrowly escaping an unimaginable life in communist Russia, his family looks forward to a life of freedom. Danger from the wild life and native Indians was expected but the evil that followed them was unforeseen.

During the long ocean voyage young Nicholas experiences his first feelings of attraction for Lena, who engages him with her unnerving gaze. It soon becomes apparent that his long time friend, Karl, feels that Lena should be his and the mind games begin. Full of charm, Karl’s growing potential for depravity and villainous behaviour goes unnoticed.

Establishing a home on virgin land Nicholas’ family is too distracted to notice the extent of Karl’s jealousy. Karl, unable to understand Lena’s rejection, allows his love to turn into hate. When inklings of Karl’s malicious intent are noticed they are not taken seriously. Karl’s obsession fuels a plot of revenge. His cunning ways allow him to divert all attention from himself, casting suspicion on others.

Brewing all around the Mennonites is a struggle for ownership of the Gran Chaco. The native Indians of the land are the first to experience the devastating impact of what the soldiers are capable of.

While putting their heart and soul into the land, battling the natural elements, and living in the heart of a land amidst dispute, a dark force is plotting to destroy all that they have and are.

Shameful Innocence

Now available in German

I am very pleased with the translated version of 'Shameful Innocence.' It is equally compelling and thought provoking. I would like to say a special thanks to all the people who put in countless hours preparing it for print.

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I love hearing from all my readers, so feel free to email me your thoughts about the story or book events.

Jetzt in deutscher Sprache

Ich bin sehr zufrieden mit der Übersetztung von "Shameful Innocence" mit dem Titel „Verlorene Traeume“. Es ist ebenso fesselnd und anregend. Ich möchte mich besonders bei den Leuten bedanken, die unzählige Stunden fuer die Vorbereitung fuer das Drucken dieses Buches gegeben haben. Danke schoen!

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The Bigger Picture

Answers! I wish I had them for all the dilemmas happening in the world today. Big issues are continually on my mind. What can we do so that children are not trained as soldiers? Why are women still not being treated as equals in many countries? And my list goes on....But then I tell myself, if we never asked any of these questions that would mean that we are blind to the suffering of others, so I’ll keep asking, please, help me find the answers.

Honour to Those in History Who’ve Gone Before

There are people in history who are not well known to the general public but have done wonderful, courageous things for large groups of people. On a personal level there was nothing in it for them. There were no rewards of money or fame. It was their hearts crying out for the plight of fellow men that moved them to seek change, even though at times their own lives were at risk. When you read "Shameful Innocence" you will have the privilege of meeting some of these people. Their names are not changed in the book. I’ve included them in such a manner as to bring them only honour!

Synopsis

A debut novel of passion, regret, unrequited love and a country caught up in the throes of World War I.

In 1914 Russia is suffering through the ravages of war. Sixteen-year-old Sarah is a beautiful free spirit born into a highly respected and very conservative Mennonite family. Sarah longs for another life, but born on a farm in a small village in Russia seems to be her plight. Everything changes when a Russian peasant family is employed by her father to work on their farm. Nikolai is the handsome young son, and from their first meeting, both knew they were destined to be together. They begin a passionate love affair, hiding their feelings from their families. Suddenly, Nikolai and his family are ordered to leave. Sarah's world collapses and she discovers that the repercussions from her love affair is certain to bring shame upon her family. Will she ever see Nikolai again? Where do her loyalties lie - with her family or with the love of her life?

Character’s Choices

The intricate journey that is relationships was one of my main themes in this novel. It is so interesting to see how you can put people into the same dilemmas, even people who’ve grown up in the same household, and how they will all react so differently. Some will grow and become stronger, wiser, and others will retreat from further challenges. For me it is often just as big of a surprise as to what the character does or reveals as it is for future readers. It’s a thrilling part of the writing process!

Gem of a Model

Lindsay McCausland is a talented model/actress who, without reserve, put herself in one of my character’s shoes. At the time the photo was taken Lindsay was 17 years old and NOT pregnant! But as soon as the costume went on she took on the characteristics of a young pregnant woman. Getting into my car before the photo shoot she commented, "Is this really how awkward it is for a pregnant woman to manoeuvre?"

Extra Special Thanks to Diane Barrett

I spent many years working side by side a very special lady named Diane Barrett! ‘Shameful Innocence’ was written on 3 different computers (very old, somewhat newer, and more modern). Diane helped me find the right people to bring it all together onto one computer. This was no easy task! She has cheered me on through the years and stood behind my talent 100% Where I flounder technology wise, Diane excels, and has always come to my rescue! Thank You, Dear Friend!

Anticipation for the Sequel

I have been busy at work on the sequel to "Shameful Innocence." I really can’t say too much about the sequel because it might give away too much about "Shameful Innocence" to readers who are just starting that book. What I can say is that I’m putting in the same quality of detail to time in history. Whereas I labeled "Shameful Innocence" as a historical drama, the sequel, I must say is becoming more of a suspense/thriller. As I write it, I too, am on edge and anxiously waiting to see what will happen next! The sequel is full of excitement, adventure, and suspense! Even the title must remain a mystery until publication!