Welcome, SITS Sisters!

It is an honor and pleasure to welcome you to my blog and to have my books mentioned on SITS. I salute Heather and Tiffany for the beautiful way they have brought the blogging community together. Kudos!

I am excited about my novels and pleased to share them with you. Feel free to click on the link under the books on the left and read about me, the books and a preview. Simon Says, books one and two, are sold by me in a set or can be ordered online through the publisher or book retailers. Both books are approximately 500 pages long and are one complete novel. Book two completes the story.

My $40 set includes: Signed copies of Simon Says, Books One and Two
A Simon Says Bookmark
Shipping
To order, please e-mail me at pchrusciaki@yahoo.com, with your name and address.

To order online at AuthorHouse, go their link and pay $14.99 + shipping for each book.

The prices at book retailers vary, but most are $21.99 + shipping for each book.

My daughter, Angela, from the painted house, did the artwork for both my books and I'm very proud to show them off. Thank you all for taking the time to let me introduce Simon Says!

Now, some humor - my son-in-law, in his satirical fashion, proving that men enjoy sappy books, too!

A Fascinating Read

Allison bought me a book she thought I'd enjoy reading. It was one of those that can't be put down. It is read during commercials, late into the night, and while dinner is simmering on the stove. It's called Escape and it's Carolyn Jessop's story of her life as a Fundamentalist Latter Day Saint (FLDS) and how she escaped her polygamist lifestyle. FLDS is an offshoot of the Mormon church.

It answered many questions I'd had about polygamy. I just can't imagine a plural marriage. We all know that marriage to one person is hard enough without throwing a few more spouses into the mix. My opinion had been that having multiple wives was not unlike having a wall shelf full of trophies. The age-old fascination with variety. I discovered that it is much more than that. It is about building the ego and attaining power and making oneself into a god. And all in the name of God.

If something went wrong in Carolyn's life - and it did often - then it was because she was being punished for not being obedient enough or surrendering her will to her husband. His approval, his likes and dislikes, and his authority were all that mattered. He was the only one to have an opinion and final say in his large household.

Granted, submission is Biblical. But the Lord has strong and solemn expectations for the husband also. He is to love his wife as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it. What couple could find fault with a relationship such as that? They would be in complete harmony with each other. It's the way God meant for marriage to be.

Where some religions fail is teaching that the husband always has the last word, that his decisions are final. A wife is not expected to submit to a husband who is asking her to do something that the Bible teaches against. Women have minds and reasoning powers too. We alone will face the judgment based on our own actions. Therefore, total submission to a husband who is not always asking God's direction in his marriage and daily affairs should not expect a wife to blindly follow him.

As the book described incidences that were so foreign to God's teachings on marriage, it cleared up some of my questions about the practice of polygamy. And my heart went out to Carolyn and the other women who were trapped in a community where they had no voice. I applaud her courage and determination to escape. I suggest that all of you read this book for a better understanding of what still goes on in this modern world in 2007.

Simon Says Book Review 2

Here's the judge's commentary on Simon Says, Book Two.

Plot: 2

Grammar: 4

Character Development: 2

Cover Design: 3

What did you like best about this book? This book, like the first, kept the reader caring about Ellis and her eventual well being. The story of Simon's demise remained complicated and interesting, and Drake's involvement in the story added a new twist. Ellis' relationship with her doctor and eventual re-awakening was a satisfying ending after a long time with Ellis and her family. Simon's downfall and the reintroduction of Kit were interesting plot elements that were gratifying. The writing was very good, and the plot kept moving without sacrificing all that had been built in the first book. Every element of the plot was nicely tied up and the ending of the book was a satisfying reward for a long, interesting read.

How can the author improve this book? Like the first book, book two continued to follow Ellis' almost blind love of her marriage. More complication on the part of Ellis without further vilifying Simon would be helpful to the forward movement of the plot. In many ways, what happens in the novel is gratifying to the reader, but also pretty expected. Problematizing some of the story line might help to keep the reader engaged and surprised by the story. Drake's awakening to his father's behavior might have been better taken coming from his mother, and also allowed Ellis (and the reader) to better understand her choices. Everything falls into place at the end very neatly, and quickly. Slowing this down might help, as well. This story seems more of a romance than a mainstream novel, although elements of both are obviously present.

There you have it, an objective opinion of my books by someone who doesn't know me, someone I didn't give birth to, someone I didn't grow up with and shared a bed, someone who is a Best Buddy, someone I don't share a bed with now, and finally, someone who is neither friend nor family who might feel compelled to say something nice. I'm proud to reveal that the areas of weakness I saw in my own books were pretty much what was pointed out to me in the commentaries. The compliments weren't expected and I appreciate them very much.

Simon Says Book Review

Almost a year ago I entered my novel in a writing competition and I received the results in the mail today. I understand the dynamics of a contest since I've submitted poems to poetry contests in the past. The best is chosen, but that doesn't mean other books, or athletes, or artists are no good. It simply means the best is chosen and the best is determined based on the judge's personal tastes and understanding of the industry. Since this was my first attempt at a novel and a new experience with the publishing industry, I had no big illusions about winning, but of course we all hope to place.

Simon Says competed in what the editor called "a particular fierce competition" with many entrants and many good books. There was one grand prize winner and nine category prizes. Those of us who did not place received a certificate of participation and a judge's commentary. I was excited about the critique and looked forward to hearing the good and the bad. I hope what I learned will help me in future writing endeavors.

I will now share the judge's commentary on book one. On a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 meaning poor and 5 meaning excellent, this is how the judge rated the following:

Plot: 3

Grammar: 4 (this authorizes me to correct Cheryl and Cristal)

Character Development: 3

Cover Design: 4 (Hooray for Angela!)

What did you like best about this book? This story is heartbreaking and realistic, allowing each character the opportunity to be multi-dimensional. The love between Agnes and Ellis is well written and helps the reader to move through the story at a good pace. This is a long novel, yet the writing is so good that it moves quickly. Simon's character isn't purely evil, and we are able, through understanding his past and his own thoughts on his behavior, to see why he makes some of the choices he makes. Ellis is lovable and loyal, and she is difficult to remain distance from. Her love for her husband, her aunt, and her family makes her both compelling and complicated as the novel unfolds.

How can the author improve this book? The first chapter, that seems to lay down the unfolding of the relationship, is difficult. While it helps to draw the reader in, it might be too much information up front, particularly because Ellis' breakdown is hard to understand as we finish book one. Simon, while complicated, at times seems too dastardly for the terminally nice Ellis to love. She is so blinded and loyal that it becomes difficult to understand why she continues to choose to stay. While the death of her family is, of course, a driving force, it doesn't seem to change in any way (even in her own mind) enough to allow for the length of time Ellis continues to make the same choices for the same reasons. Her aunt is a good way to help us understand her choices, but she doesn't seem, right now, to fulfill those character duties.

I appreciate this critique and any comments the rest of my blog sisters might have. Tomorrow I will share the judge's commentary on book two.

Web Site Active Again

The link to my books is now active again. The web master and I miscommunicated and my contract expired. It is up and running for another year. Please visit www.simonsays1and2.com if you haven't already. Happy reading.

Book #3 In Progress

Sorry, no picture of me sitting at my laptop creating a best seller. Ha! But I am working on chapter 14 of Sacrifice. It's been a slow process. I'm preoccupied with work issues and writing has been a struggle. I see some major editing in the near future.

Sacrifice is the story of Ava Hennessy, a young widow, who marries an older man in order to keep her father out of prison. She believes her father is innocent, but can't prove it. Benjamin Brodie, her boss and the President of Brodie Express, has promised to drop all charges of embezzling if only Ava will marry him and take his lonliness away. She enters into a business-type contract with Benjamin, with the stipulation that she can leave once the debt is paid in full. Benjamin, however, is convinced she will fall in love with him and begin viewing their relationship as a marriage instead of a business arrangement.

Benjamin has three grown children. Clark, the oldest, is bitter and moody. Nathan is happily married and constantly dealing with the restraints of asthma. Felicia is a spoiled Daddy's Girl who is used to getting her own way. Greta, the housekeeper, is a fiesty German lady who has kept the Brodie home together.

Max Raney is Ava's father. He's keeping his administrative leave a secret from his daughter, claiming it's time to retire. Chloe St. James, Ava's best friend and confidante, is the only one who knows the real reason why Ava consented to marry Benjamin. And she's vowed to keep her mouth shut.

Madeliene Raney and Celeste Brodie are deceased, but still making an impact on their families. Officer Luke Hennessy, Ava's beloved husband, was killed by a drunk driver.

Angela will again make the cover for this 3rd book. I've sent her what I have so far so she can get a feel for the story. I don't expect a finished cover any time soon with her move and a new baby scheduled to arrive in a few weeks. But it wouldn't surprise me if the cover is done before the book is!

I spend too much time playing computer games when I should be writing. But times do come around when I feel myself thinking more and more about the book and anxious to write. I just wish those times would come more often. If I don't feel "inspired" to write, nothing good comes from it.

I'm hoping this progress report will find me itching to get back to the laptop and pull up Microsoft Word instead of searching for hidden objects or popping balloons. This may not be an exciting post, but it beats the snake pictures.

A Novel Weekend

What better follow-up to a babysitting post than one about a lazy weekend with a good book? That's just what I did. I didn't bother getting dressed or adding makeup. Winter made another appearance with a few snow flurries and it seemed a good time to grab a novel and get comfortable.

I have always loved the rare weekends when I can snuggle up to a good book and let the world go on without me. My novel of choice this weekend was a good mystery by Lawrence Block. I've never read his work before, but I certainly will again. The book kept me riveted and I started and finished it in the same weekend. I enjoy a good mystery, perhaps my favorite reading material. I find it odd that what I enjoy reading, I do not enjoy writing. It might be because I lack the imagination to write a good mystery. My forte seems to be the ups and downs of everyday life with a touch of romance thrown in. And while I can enjoy a good romance novel, I much prefer the mysteries. Too many romance novels include a blow-by-blow description of the sex act which I find boring. We all know the various things that can happen behind closed doors and this is the time to let our imaginations take over. It's not like we're virgins who need a road map.

Anyway, the weekend was lazy and glorious and I feel rested enough to tackle a new work week. Also, reading a novel always gets my juices flowing and I look forward to my own writing. My next book, Sacrifice, is waiting for help from a local policeman who is well versed in financial crimes. Maybe Sacrifice will be a mini mystery!

Simon Says, "Buy me!"

Is there an avid reader on your Christmas list? Or, perhaps someone who enjoys fine art? Do you feel good when the bad guy finally gets his due, and good is rewarded? If so, you might want to purchase the Simon Says book set. We all need gift ideas and I wanted to pass along this one.

You may find the books online at your favorite book store, or through me, or through the publisher at www.simonsays1and2.com. This is my first novel and a dream come true. I'm especially proud of my book covers, designed for me by my artist daughter, Angela.

Spread the word this Christmas!

Book Signing Party!

My wonderful neighbors hosted a book signing party for me this morning. I felt so honored. The table was beauitful and they used my books to decorate the table and other surfaces throughout the house. It touched me deeply when I walked in this morning and saw it all. They did a wonderful job! We were served a breakfast casserole, pumpkin bread, banana nut bread, crackers with cream cheese covered in jalepeno jelly, coffee, and mimosas for those who like a little champayne with their orange juice. It was the perfect table.

I sold 49 books! That was very exciting for me. Several bought more than one set to be used as Christmas gifts. And I met many new friends and got to visit with old friends. I was so happy that my sister drove from Oklahoma to attend. The morning was a huge success and I am so grateful to the lovely ladies who made it possible.

The pictures include one of the beautiful table, a deliciously cute one of my sister, Donna, and me with my lovely hostesses Jean, Yvonne, and Barbara. It was a day to remember and one I will cherish always.

Book 2 On Sale Now!

Simon Says, Book 2 became available today. I have ordered in bulk for friends and family in my area. Books 1 and 2 can be purchased from me for $18 each, which also covers my shipping cost. For those outside of my area, please visit www.simonsays1and2.com for ordering information. Bookmarks will be available soon, at no charge to you. Thank you all for your support during this exciting time in my life! I am truly living a dream!

BB & SS

Here's my best buddy, Cheryl Derowski, with her copy of Simon Says, Book One. Cheryl was very instrumental in getting this book published and I will forever be grateful for her genorosity and interest. She's a wonderful, cherished friend!

Book 2 Has Gone To Print!

Simon Says, Book 2, has been submitted for printing. It should be "live" by Friday or Monday. I'll be ordering in bulk for local friends and family. Please check simonsays1and2.com for availability. When book two's price is listed it is ready to order. This has been a very exciting adventure and I thank all of you for your support. Please note the slight change in cover art on book two. My artist did a wonderful job and I hear so many compliments on her. Love you, Punkin!

Class of '68 and '69

Robin and I had a wonderful visit with Ronnie and Jan Tucker today. Jan and I were classmates and friends at MacArthur High School in Irving. Jan made sandwiches for all of us and we got to meet her handsome son, Brian, and her beautiful granddaughter, Maisye. A big highlight for Robin was getting to see the Cobra car that Ronnie had assembled from a kit. Quite a kit! And, we saw his orange 1970 Cuda that he bought when it was new, way back when! We toured their beautiful motor home and even sat in there for awhile and talked in the nice A/C. That's the kind of camping I could do. No roughing it in that thing!

Jan and Ronnie live in Oak Leaf in the De Soto/Ovilla/Red Oak area with country surroundings. They are a lovely couple and we really enjoyed our visit. There's never a dull moment with Jan around. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious and I suspect she never meets a stranger. How great to be on such a natural high! We look forward to more fun times with this delightful pair.

Thank you, Jan!!!

My high school friend, Jan, left a review on my blog! She finished reading my book and had wonderful things to say. I'm sure that since we've been friends for years and she typed one of my stories for me in high school has NOTHING to do with her generous praise. It's my first book "review" outside of family and I will always cherish it. Jan, you're an absolute sweetheart! I'll have a picture of her holding the book posted here very soon! Thanks, Jan!!!

Books For Sale!

I ordered a few boxes of books and they arrived today. They are selling to local friends for $18, which includes my shipping cost to have them shipped to me. If you want a copy, either call or e-mail me and I will make sure you get it. If you are out of my area, it will be better to order from the publisher and pay one shipping cost. You may order your copy at www.simonsays1and2.com.

Book Reviews!

I was excited to get these pictures from my daughter, Allison, showing how much she and her family are enjoying Simon Says, Book One. Allison and Jude with the book made me smile when I saw it. But when I saw my big tough son-in-law wiping tears from his eyes - well I lost it! Meaning, bladder control because I was laughing so hard! This guy is a clown and this picture is definitely Brian! The book is geared for women and I have stated that the only men I expect to read it (have to read it) are my husband and my son. Now, however, Brian is showing me that men's hearts can be touched as well. Thank you, Brian!

It Arrived Today!!!

Simon Says arrived today! I'd already left for work when UPS delivered it at home. My wonderful husband drove to Irving and walked in with the box. I'm sure I squealed like a pot belly pig!! It turned out beautifully, thanks to Angela for doing my fantastic cover. And special thanks to Cheryl for helping me make a dream come true. I am thrilled with the results! My picture in the back came out grainy, but who cares??? I have my book!!!

On Sale Now!

Simon Says, Book One, is now on sale at Authorhouse.com. It will be available to order from retail stores in 30-45 days. However, I suggest the cheaper price going through AuthorHouse. My new web site will take you directly to the books. www.simonsays1and2.com

Book two will be available as soon as the final cover approval is made. My copy of book one is on its way to me and I can't wait to see the finished product! It's been a long road to travel.

Book Two Ready For Print!!!

Simon Says, Book two, has been approved to go to print. We are only waiting on the cover, which is slightly different from Book One, to be completed. We've gone over the three changes that need to be made to the cover and I should be able to make the final approval within days, When that's done, it will go to print. The publisher has asked me to view my copy of the finished product before placing orders for books. Will keep you posted.

Book One has Gone to Print!!!!

I was just notified that Simon Says, Book One, has gone to print. My book will be live in two weeks. Once the publisher is ready to accept orders, I will let everyone know. I'm guessing right now that book two is about 2-3 weeks behind the first one. Remember, book one isn't complete without book two. It's one long story! It took 3 years to write the book and the publishing process, including editing, has taken 7 months already. I'm so excited to be nearing the end of this exciting journey!