2024 celebrated the fifth tractor drive and cookout hosted by Josh Adkins and Doug Edwards. The morning weather was rainy, causing concern about participation. Sunshine finally made an appearance. Even after a delay, the Franklin parade stepped off slightly late.
28 tractors traveled the parade route before the drivers embarked on their exploration of the countryside. Jim Edwards led the caravan through the journey to Nortonville and the final destination at the Adkins farm.
Grand Marshall Jim Edwards leads the caravan Road guard and support truck manned by Bob Bob Norton and Corey Edwards
Jim and JR Harris were presented Grand Marshall plaques for appreciation of the great support through the past five years.
 A thank you also needs to go out to members of the Grass Roots Tractor Club for the behind the scenes help. Thanks also to Bob, Bob, and Corey for manning the support truck.
Not sure where to explore for a vacation? Cindy Ladage is an experienced traveler and she has composed a guide.
Not only does her ebook discuss great locations of discovery, she helps the traveler find other points of interest.
Bradley house in Kankakee, IL
Cindy gave me the good fortune to preview her work before she submitted it to the public. I highly recommend any farming enthusiasts to obtain their own copy.
Cindy has discovered rare tractors such as this Heider in Perryville, MO
Cindy shares the guide in her well-known style. Those that follow her blog Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl will easily become familiar with her presentation.
Her choices, for the book, cover destinations in Illinois, Iowa, Indiana. She tells about great attractions all the way down in Mississippi and Louisiana. Anywhere that the farm culture is present. As well traveled as Cindy has been, I had to imagine she had tough decisions on which points of interest to discuss. Of course, without limitation, the book would have many pages.
Could there be a sequel in the works? Link to purchase follows
I haven’t had much free time for recreational reading of late. Of course, some of my “reading” is actually listening via Audible.
Keisha Willi has three books available. I have actually shared my review of Fire Tales. That review can be found in my article What’s New Another Review.
Johnny B Good is a a sociological thriller about a serial killer. The book dives into the mind of a very successful monster. He has managed several undiscovered murders until he finally meets a victim he cannot successfully murder.
Keisha demonstrates a whole new style, different from Fire Tales. She can easily change her writing technique from formal English to scary thriller. I highly recommend anything she has published.
Her works can be discovered on the publisher’s website houseofhonorbooks.com She can also be found on Amazon and Audible.
Johnny B Good has been available for awhile. I just haven’t had the time to listen on Audible. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to listen or read Keisha’s third offering Beware the Wolf.
Jack LaFountain has been busy with his Ed Landry series. There have been two more releases to the ongoing saga.
Lover’s Moon tells a tale of a love triangle between vampire, a rougarou and himself. I won’t spoil which lady wins.
Jack is very hard on poor old Ed. Finding love isn’t necessarily a good thing for the man. Throughout the series, Landry finds himself in many perils.
It’s such a shame that the clerk in chapter nine of Wolf Moon would never get to finish the novel he was reading. Damn rougarou!
Catch these great reads on Amazon and Audible. They can also be found on the website houseofhonorbooks.com
While you’re there, browse the catalog for other great books to enjoy
I don’t get the luxury to recreational read. My free time is limited, and I reserve that time to compose my own work. When I can explore another authors work, I usually listen. Audible is my primary source.
I haven’t turned the actual pages of a novel for as long as I can remember. If I do get the opportunity to read, modern technology comes into play. The pages are turned by the slide of my finger across a screen, and the words are back lit.
I’ve known that, even before I was published, there was another author in New Berlin. The two of us have friends in common. One is my friend and who I consider a mentor Cindy Ladage. The other is my usual tractor partner in crime Digger Dave. Digger has made an attempt at introduction, but my unfortune hasn’t let that happen….yet.
I purchased Taylor Pensoneau’s fiction novels Devil on the Prairie, and The Summer of ’50 from our local bookstore in Virden. Immediately after I returned home, I found myself in my recliner reading Devil on the Prairie. I was held spellbound. The novel was extremely hard to put down.
Taylor has three works of fiction currently in publication. So far, I’ve read the two titles I have listed. Taylor has non-fiction works in print, which are highly acclaimed.
Taylor is a downstate Illinois native from Belleville. He has spent time as the IL political correspondent of the St.Louis Post Dispatch. He is self-published by his own company, Down State Publications.
Taylor adds realism to his novels by sharing trivia of famous local natives. Downstate Illinois and the St Louis region is where his story world takes place. The time frame of the world is from the fifties. Taylor’s wording choices are interesting. He has the luxury of getting phrases past his editor, that mine would more than likely question.
Overall, I highly recommend Taylor Pensoneau. I wish him continued success in his future endeavors. I look forward to my opportunity to meet and visit with him.
Australian author Julia Yeoh has another book available. The Bears, The Witch, and the Bookwyrm has been released in paperback, E-book and through Audible. Julia’s works can be found in the House of Honor website catalog http://www.houseofhonorbooks.com
Julia’s second tale finds the furry rebels in Texas. This story is at an earlier time and the cast of friends isn’t quite as large. The adventure is just as intense and fun, though.
Kacey Sophia narrates, again. Her English accent and soft voice makes the reading an easy listening experience. Since Julia’s books are geared toward the young, the author / narrator combination works perfectly. Regardless, young and young at heart will enjoy the story.
Judy Snyder , designed the cover. Julia and Judy are obvious friends. Like other authors, she uses friends as models for her characters. Judy, and her cat Kirby, arrive in the nick of time; to help slay evil. I have become friends with Judy as well. After seeing her through Julia’s vision, I realize Judy is quite the super hero and I will treat her with more respect.
I also have become more aware while shopping at Dollar General. I was texting with Julia and she shared the store actually did exist. The store has moved from that location. I imagine the stores are just as common in Texas as anywhere else in the US. There should be no fear of any ghosts being left homeless.
Julia has written a wonderful story, again. A cautionary word of advise. Just like her first book the reader runs risk of over indulgence to their senses. She is very descriptive of food and drink. The reader may want to participate in the action, otherwise there is danger of gaining a couple pounds.
Below is a link to Julia’s blog. More can be discovered about her and the bear rebels.
Jack LaFountain’s recently released another western with a monster. The reader/ listener returns to Texas and the Lazy L ranch. This novel is the continuing saga centered around main character Vern Carson.
Werewolves again terrorize the Red River. As the plot unfolds, a scheme of revenge and a neighboring feud becomes apparent.
Vern gains a love interest, but the beautiful widow Polly is more than she seems. Jack has a habit of sharing heartbreak leaving us to wonder if the story will end happily. I won’t spoil the fun, that will just have to be discovered.
Jack does a wonderful job penning the story. I highly recommend it.
The audio book is narrated by Cameron Buckner. He brings the tale to life in a well done “cowboy” fashion.
Cam hosts the YouTube channel Dixie Crytid and What if its True on podcast channels. He has a large following in which I’m part.
Jack’s books can be found on Amazon. Audible and in the catalog at houseofhonorbooks.com
I just finished listening to Bears In The Woods written by Julia Yeoh. The enjoyable plot tells about an ornery band of teddy bears taking a vacation from Australia to Texas.
This book is geared for children, obviously. There is something in the story for everyone, though. Julia describes the scenery of Texas quite well. It’s not hard for the reader~listener to be absorbed in as if they are there.
Julia paints an exciting, fun picture that brings her teddy bears to life. It’s easy to imagine the control chaos, the bears, and friends cause as they travel, camp, shop, and other general fun.
Julia Yeoh’s experience with ghosts, skinwalkers, and others that go bump in the night is well demonstrated. She is well knowledged, from her heritage. There is a link posted below that leads to a YouTube channel. Here are stories Julia shares from her youth.
The author narrator pairing for Bears In The Woods is excellent. Kacey Sophia’s soft English voice brings the audio to life. It’s fitting to hear the bear antics in a gentle British accent.
I have one warning when you enjoy this wonderful tale. Julia does an excellent job of describing meals and other treats consumed. I feel I gained 15 pounds at the completion of the story. I could mentally smell and taste every morsel that is consumed.
Julia already has a second novel released. Her books can be found on Amazon and discovered in the catalog at houseofhonorbooks.com
Well, another year has come and gone. I have to admit 2022 was filled with interesting milestones in my writing journey.
The journey continues. My next novel was submitted in mid-December. My publisher and I came to terms, and I signed my next contract. I wish I could say I made a sale on the first try, but it took two attempts. I’m lucky to have a kind editor who shares his wisdom gently. Once I quelled my ego, I saw his point. Rejection isn’t a terrible thing.
Can’t go Home is the working title of my next book. It will be the continuing saga of my first story. I’ve already got a good start on number three, mainly because it’s trimmed from Can’t Go Home.
New Perspectives has been released in audio form. I placed a link to take you directly to it below. There are some perks to downloading if you’re a first-time Audible customer. My book can be discovered at houseofhonorbooks.com in paperback e-books and audio forms. I recommend browsing the catalog. There’s many great titles.
It took a while, but I’ve discovered myself as a writer. I’m more a novelist than a journalist~blogger. This last year, I found my writing dedication tended to be swayed toward writing a book. I’m not giving up reporting. The blog will remain the same erratic way it has always been.
Antique Iron Media will continue to double formate. I’m going to continue to feature my fellow authors of House of Honor. As always, thanks for your support!
I’ve mentioned Judy Snyder before. She is the artist that created the cover for my novel New Perspectives. The retooling of the Antique Iron Media is also her fantastic handiwork.
Judy’s book Twisted Tales debuted in June. The release was more recent on Audible. I have a time constraint being able to read so had been anxiously awaiting the opportunity to listen.
Twisted Tales is actually a grouping of short stories. Judy patterns after Rod Serling telling the tales reminiscent of TV’s Twilight Zone. Judy has her own flair, making the reader smile, feel sad and scaring them over and over.
The book is narrated by StevenMolony. This is the second book that Steven has performed for House of Honor. His skill brings books to life.
I personally don’t have a favorite story. Each one is great on it’s own rights. I highly recommend purchasing Twisted Tales in any form you prefer. Its available in paperback, E-book through Amazon and its available on Audible.
Links can be found on the publisher’s website at houseofhonorbooks.com
While you’re there take a minute to browse the catalog for other interesting titles to read. The blog Author’s Antics is also linked there. More can be learned about each of the authors in the Publishing House. A new article is released on Friday
Judy is currently participating in a writing contest of sorts. She is working on a novel that has to be completed in the month of November. One of her short stories Michala’s Rise is being expanded into a novel. I’m privileged to have insight on the project, and have complete faith the book will be great.
Judy’s artistic book covers can be enjoyed on a majority of House of Honor titles. I firmly believe the cover she designed for New Perspectives grabs a potential readers attention. Thank you Judy, for your help in its sales.
Fire Tales The world has turned away from magic and cast all magical creatures into the netherworld. But there is not peace. The Arianmordun empire has taken control of its enemy country Senlaisre, enslaving its people for centuries. The people of Senlaisre lie in wait, secretly plotting a rebellion, but the rebels want to ensure their victory and send a young man, Ailadwr, to find the sword Maelcethin in the forbidden forest. The sword is known to bring victory to what hand claims it, but Ailadwr knows that there is a price: the opening of hell and the release of all magic.
Cover designed by Judith Snyder
This is a recently released book by fellow House of Honor author Keshia Willi. Keshia hails from Virginia and is a recognized screenwriter
Keshia’s writing style is very classical. The words flow like English poetry. I downloaded the book via Audible for my listening pleasure.
The audio book is well complimented by the choice of narrators. Kacey Sophia brings the story to life with her airy British accent. Listening to the tale is magical.
This was a great change of pace for me. I highly recommend the book.
Jack LaFountain has brought Ed Landry into the third book of the sequel. The book is available on Amazon and Audible. Cameron Buckner narrates.
Cover by Judith Snyder
The bill has come due for Magic Mike’s death and Ed Landry has to pay up—the voodoo queen of New Orleans insists on it. Jazz Ledoux arrives in Oklahoma with the message, get home, Christy’s been kidnapped.
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On the road back to Louisiana, Landry falls under the power of a spell that carries him to Lockett in visions. Friends and enemies alike take on new shapes as Landry is forced into a showdown on the bayou. This fight for his life will leave him bloodied.
Another great story by Jack. It was quick. I listened to the book in a day. I realize I had the time being on the road all day.
While you’re there please browse around. Take the time to meet our authors and narrators. There is a blog page to learn insights as to how and why we write. We at House of Honor appreciate your support and hope you enjoy the books available.
Antique Iron Media 