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Authors Signings & Articles Read More Signing 3/29: 10:30am AWP Table 576: Finding Love in the Margins: One Author's Journey to Redefine Romance Read More Signing 3/29: 11:30am AWP Table 576: Gary E Smith Read More Signing 3/29: 1:30pm AWP Table 576: 1:30pm Travis Easter Read More From Canvas to Climate: How a Worried Artist Accidentally Became an Award-Winning Author Read More London Book Fair 2025: A Global Hub for the Future of Storytelling Read More Signing 3/29: 11am AWP Table 576: Tim Turner and Moisey Gorbaty Read More Signing 3/29: 12:30am AWP Table 576: Michele Kwasniewski Read More From PTO Meeting to Page-Turner: How a Mom's Job Sparked a Movement Read More Xue Mo Illuminating the Darkness: A Conversation with Ted Olczak Read More Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing

< Back For the Author: Enter HERE by March 29th to win Amazon or Spotify Gift Cards, Free PWR Magazine & other prizes. Xuemo Xue Mo Illuminating the Darkness: A Conversation with Ted Olczak I had the great privilege of sitting down with Xue Mo at this year’s London Book Fair. Xue Mo, formerly known as Chen Kaihong, was born in Liangzhou, Gansu province. Among other positions, Xue Mo is a cultural scholar, China's National First-class Writer, and Vice President of Gansu Writers Association. Xue Mo’s best known work is his Desert Trilogy. He dedicated 12 years to writing “Desert Rites”, the first novel in the series. It depicts the life of a typical rural family in China’s western provinces during the second half of the twentieth century. After it was published in 2000, Xue Mo became famous overnight. Following the critical and commercial success of “Desert Rites”, Xue Mo wrote “Desert Hunters”, a multi-character fable set around a watering hole known as the ‘Pig’s Belly Well’. The novel examines the conflict between humans and nature in their struggle for survival. The final novel in the trilogy, “White Tiger Pass”, explores the cultural psychology of people living in western China, and focuses around the lives of three women, Lan Lan, Ying and Yue – characters also encountered in his short story collection, “Selected Stories by Xue Mo”. His works are mainly characterized by the culture of western China and contain the essence of Oriental civilization. He is now focused on the theme of one’s ultimate Transcendence. In our conversation, Xue Mo emphasized that the power of love and wisdom can transform the world. Our conversation, through his translator, unveiled that readers seek happiness and respect through literature and that more published works can lead to a more balanced world. Xue Mo feels that writing can illuminate societal darkness and that cultural reflections are essential for understanding global issues. Despite widespread violence, hope persists in knowledge. In the end, the continued importance of writing, sharing messages, and engaging in conversations can inspire collective action. Here is a clip from our conversation: Ted Olczak: Could you elaborate on your philosophies regarding the relationship between woman and nature? What are the major effects on the world? Xue Mo: The world is engulfed in violence and conflict. Humanity requires a culture and spirit that transcends mere desires and materialism. We need a nurturing spirit akin to that of a mother, yet women often find themselves without a voice in these matters. The power of discourse in our world predominantly resides with men, who tend to favor violence, authority, and success. Consequently, the prevalence of violence and wars persists. Through my artistic endeavors, I aspire to awaken the feminine power within individuals. Since a mother would never send her child into battle; conversely, it is often men who take their sons to war. Thus, when the essence of maternal love becomes the prevailing force in society, the light of peace will descend upon the earth. This motivation drives me to write about feminine power—to ignite love within every heart. When love and wisdom become dominant forces globally, humanity will experience tranquility and happiness. Therefore, much of my writing centers on themes of love and wisdom. My readers are those who do not endorse violence but instead embody compassion and insight. It is my hope that both my readers and the broader world embrace these values—this aspiration was one reason why I go outside of China. Xue Mo emphasized that there is so much violence in the world, and his message of Love & Wisdom is an important one. Xue Mo: When human beings are valued by the world, the world will follow it. Although my works are not numerous, they are like a pile of fire in the darkness. When more books are published, we are balanced and the world will become more balanced. Ted Olczak: I think that's important, just like the 20th century writer Jack London, in The Call of the Wild , tells man against nature, so how we think about that in American terms, his influences in his book and how he thinks, how he reveals the relationship between woman and nature , and bring that out in the article. CULTURAL REFLECTIONS & GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE Ted Olczak: Does he think humans can receive the light of love and wisdom? Xue Mo 's Translator: He thinks they can. Xue Mo: Although most of my publications are [fiction], it can light a candle, like a starlight, it can light the darkness [in the] world. Ted Olczak: So does Xue Mo feel through his writings that he can show the light and the power of love and wisdom? And his wish to enlighten people, why would cultures see the wisdom in that? Why would people choose [love & wisdom] when there's so much glorification of violence and conflict and it's promoted by leaders in the Western world. How is his message of love and wisdom going to influence that darkness? Xue Mo: China has excellent culture that has never been able to come out. China's excellent culture has no voice in the world. This kind of discourse power is controlled by the West. But it is like a lighthouse in the dark sea. It cannot dispel the darkness, but it can bring hope. HOPE AMIDST DARKNESS Ted Olczak: Is he fearful of how the current violence is taking over the country? Does he feel that there's hope that people will receive this message? And does he see an event that could change this? Xue Mo: I can't change the world, but I can change my readers. Since the way we perceive the world through our minds shapes the reality within our mind. When our perspectives shift, the world transforms accordingly. When more of my readers change their minds, their world changes. If everyone becomes a reader and changes their mindset, the world will transform. Ted Olczak: Knowledge is power. (Translator: You're already changing yourself, ha ha). What's next? Xue Mo: I will definitely continue to write. And definitely you can influence all the people in your group. Just one light, one candle lighting one candle, light another candle…and we can light the world around us. The world is very dark. But our world is full of light. Ted Olczak: Let’s light candles together! Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Authors Signings & Articles Read More Signing 3/29: 10:30am AWP Table 576: Finding Love in the Margins: One Author's Journey to Redefine Romance Read More Signing 3/29: 11:30am AWP Table 576: Gary E Smith Read More Signing 3/29: 1:30pm AWP Table 576: 1:30pm Travis Easter Read More From Canvas to Climate: How a Worried Artist Accidentally Became an Award-Winning Author Read More London Book Fair 2025: A Global Hub for the Future of Storytelling Read More Signing 3/29: 11am AWP Table 576: Tim Turner and Moisey Gorbaty Read More Signing 3/29: 12:30am AWP Table 576: Michele Kwasniewski Read More From PTO Meeting to Page-Turner: How a Mom's Job Sparked a Movement Read More Xue Mo Illuminating the Darkness: A Conversation with Ted Olczak Read More Building a Community and Brand Around Your Writing

< Back Hidden in the Shadows A.D. Vancise Horror, Thriller Atmophere Press Buy this book: Share this review: Copy link Facebook LinkedIn X (Twitter) WhatsApp Pinterest A Town's Past Veiled in Shadows: “Hidden in the Shadows” is a dark thriller, weaving together threads of trauma, secrecy, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Evie Day's return to Woodsville for her grandfather's funeral is the catalyst for a descent into a labyrinth of long-buried secrets. A haunting photograph, unearthed from family photos, and a woman who keeps appearing, sparks an investigation that quickly escalates from a personal quest to a confrontation with the town's chilling past. The author utilizes the setting, juxtaposing the present-day tranquility of Woodsville with the sinister echoes of its 1930s history. This historical backdrop, coupled with the contemporary investigation, creates a palpable sense of dread. As the plot unfolds, Evie's journey is fraught with danger, and has a compelling complexity as she encounters individuals determined to protect the town's dark secrets at any cost. The rising action builds tension with each clue Evie uncovers. The psychological depth of the characters is notable, particularly Evie's internal struggle as she confronts her own past and the reasons she fled Woodsville. Meanwhile, Charlie Baker’s counseling session serendipitously unveils the depths of his deeply troubled past during his time in foster care. The session triggers the resurfacing of his buried past, a collection of fragmented memories involving satanic rituals, child trafficking, and sexual abuse. His connection to the dark undercurrents of the town, particularly his link to the foster care system that ties into the main investigation, makes him a pivotal, if unsettling, character in "Hidden in the Shadows." Charlie's repressed memories of abuse and trauma connect to the horrific events Evie is uncovering. The narrative's bleak scenes involving Charlie are intensely evocative, filled with implied violence, some of which involves children. Vancise's skillful writing allows the most graphic sequences to resonate without resorting to excessive detail. The climax delivers a satisfying resolution, exposing the town's horrific past and bringing a measure of justice to the long-suffering victims. While the scars of the past may linger, the revelations are cathartic. The resolution also offers a poignant personal journey for Evie, as she confronts her own trauma and reason to embrace a new beginning. “Hidden in the Shadows” exploration of trauma, secrecy, and the pursuit of justice resonates, and the author's ability to blend elements of thriller and horror leaves readers both satisfied and haunted. Previous Next

PRINTED WORD REVIEWS Book Reviews Facebook LinkedIn Copy link Share this page Seach by Category: Filter Clear Category Horror, Thriller Hidden in the Shadows A Town's Past Veiled in Shadows: Read More Picture Book-All Ages Brightness the Bird Girl In a whimsical world where the Sun and the Sea nurture her, a peculiar bird girl named Brightness, who feels out of place among both birds and humans, embarks on a journey of self-discovery to embrace her unique identity and the joy within her. Read More YA, Sci-fi Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches from Outer Space! A fun read for young adult readers who enjoy a blend of science fiction, humor, and bit of social commentary. 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The show brought together turkey breeders from across the United States and Canada, showcasing their prize poultry entries and contributing to the development and promotion of the turkey industry. Read More Mystery A Clique to a Cult In a small Mississippi town, a power-hungry lawyer's ruthless manipulation and abusive control over his family and community unravel after a near-fatal car explosion forces him to confront the dark legacy of his deceitful life. Read More Nonfiction Exit Wounds: How America's Guns Fuel Violence Across the Border An exploration of the intertwined fates of the U.S. and Mexico, "Exit Wounds" reveals how American firearms fuel violence across the border, as personal stories of survival and systemic corruption illuminate the devastating impact of gun culture on both sides. Read More Fantasy, Paranormal Romance Hidden - Triquetra Prophecy Book One A Goddess in the Making: Love, Mythology, and Modern Life Collide Read More Novel Rescuing Ethan and Gabe: The Power of One Stable Committed Relationship The Enduring Echo of Mentorship: A Novel of Grief, Trauma, and Healing SPOILER ALERT: Read More Historical Thriller Vatican Daughter Faith, Power, and Intrigue in the Heart of Italy: A Novel of Secrets and Redemption Read More Geopolitical Thriller The Spear and the Sentinel A World on the Brink: A Geopolitical Thriller of Technology, Espionage, and Resilience Read More Self-Help / Wellness, Business The Non-Obvious Guide to Drawing Your Future: Solve Problems, Explain Ideas, Sell Anything Drawing Your Future: A Visual Path to Achieving Your Dreams Read More LGBTQ Romance The Third Act Finding Love in the Third Act: A Story of Rekindled Romance and Healing Read More Romance Crystal Lake Gifts From Break-ins to Beginnings: A Heartwarming Tale of Love and Resilience in Small-Town Maine Read More Business Pivoting as a way of Life In "Pivoting as a Way of Life," entrepreneurs Joseph Hanna and Christy Petrosso unveil a transformative guide that challenges traditional notions of product-market fit, advocating for continuous innovation and agility through their Pivoting Life Operating Model to help businesses thrive in a dynamic market landscape. Read More Military Fiction Red Lines In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack on Independence Hall, President Mark Taylor rallies the nation for a decisive military response against Iran, while a group of enraged veterans takes matters into their own hands, igniting a complex conflict that intertwines personal vendettas with geopolitical stakes. Read More Suspense Otello's Oil: A Saga of Blood and Oil In a rapidly changing Seattle, a father and daughter’s ferry trip turns into a race against time when he uncovers a bomb threat, while a web of political intrigue unfolds in Washington, D.C., culminating in a high-stakes assassination that could alter global relations. Read More Self-help: Motivational Passion Struck In "Passion Struck," John R. Miles presents twelve transformative principles that empower individuals to unlock their purpose and live intentionally, guiding them through mindset and behavior shifts essential for achieving personal fulfillment and success. 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Read More Western Nonfiction A Sometimes Paradise: Reflections on Life in a Wyoming Ranch Family A Sometimes Paradise is a poignant memoir that chronicles Mark E. Miller's life growing up on the I Lazy D Ranch in Wyoming, exploring the deep connections between family, nature, and the enduring spirit of ranching amidst the challenges of modernization and loss. Read More Marriage The Infidelity Cure: How to Rebuild Your Life & Relationship After Your Affair, A Guidebook for Men and the Women Who Love Them The Infidelity Cure: How to Rebuild Your Life & Relationship after Your Affair Dr. Jeanne Michele's "The Infidelity Cure: How to Rebuild Your Life & Relationship after Your Affair" offers a lifeline for men struggling to recover from the devastating impact of infidelity. This comprehensive guide doesn't shy away from the complexities of infidelity, delving deep into the motivations, vulnerabilities, and emotional landscapes that contribute to this betrayal. 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< Back For the Author: Enter HERE by March 29th to win Amazon or Spotify Gift Cards, Free PWR Magazine & other prizes. The Darden Kids From PTO Meeting to Page-Turner: How a Mom's Job Sparked a Movement It started with a murmur in the back of a school auditorium. An ordinary Tuesday night PTO meeting, the kind where parents gather to discuss school events and fundraisers, took an unexpected turn for one PTO President. Amidst the hum of adult conversation, a different kind of chatter arose – the excited whispers of her four children. "They were talking loudly," she recalls, "and when I asked what all the fuss was about, they told me none of their friends or classmates believed I was a construction manager." It wasn't a new revelation. The disbelief was a recurring theme, a constant surprise expressed by children at community events and school presentations. But this time, something clicked. The question lingered: why was it so hard for these children to imagine a woman, let alone their friend's mother, in a construction role? A conversation with her children ensued, a deep dive into the stereotypes and preconceived notions that limited their classmates' imaginations. And from that conversation, a book was born: "My Mom is a Construction Manager," written by the Darden Kids and their mom. This isn't just a biographical tale; it's a mission. The book chronicles the author's journey from a young girl fascinated by Legos, puzzles, and math to a successful construction business owner, author, and e-course creator. But its core message is far broader: to break down stereotypes and show young people, especially girls, that they can build their futures in any field they dream of. The author emphasizes the powerful influence of representation. "What they see is what they will be, when you see me you can be me," she states, highlighting the importance of showing children what's possible. Her own journey is a testament to the power of positive influence. She credits her parents, both educators, with instilling in her the belief that she could achieve anything. "They empowered me to believe I could do anything," she says. "Their guidance and dedication to learning taught me to value education and to trust in my abilities." Their unwavering support helped her navigate the challenges of being a young African American woman in a male-dominated field. After building $2 billion in construction projects, she took the leap and started her own construction business, a move directly inspired by her parents' belief in her. Equally influential are her four children. They were the catalyst for the book, their innocent disbelief sparking a desire to challenge perceptions. "Their initial conversations with classmates, who couldn’t believe their mom worked in construction, sparked the idea for the book," she explains. "They brought fresh perspectives to the project, helping to ensure the book would resonate with young readers." The book, along with its accompanying construction plushie, is more than just a story; it's a tool for empowerment. It's a way to show children that their dreams are not limited by societal expectations, that they can break down barriers and build their own paths. It's a message that resonates far beyond the pages of a book, inspiring a generation to see beyond stereotypes and build a future where anything is possible. Share this article Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link