tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29960020824365073002024-03-19T03:29:15.013-04:00Marie J. S. PhillipsFurlitian Tales & Other StoriesMarie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-36316070968089297552019-09-10T14:40:00.000-04:002019-09-10T14:40:21.142-04:00<u><b><span style="background-color: #351c75;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span></span><span style="color: #674ea7;">Sept 10, 2019</span></span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For fun we have an interview with the main character of <u>The Furlites of Aroriel: Curse of Koris</u>, to introduce you to him and his world, instead of your humble author!</span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">An Interview with the main character of <u> </u></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>CURSE OF KORIS</u></span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i> </i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><i>As
I sit and wait for our guest, he walks in, striding on strong muscular
legs, his tail stiff behind him, and his talons click on the smooth tile
floor. He looks like a hairy flat-faced dinosaur, with large cat eyes
the color of a glacier. He sits in the chair, slipping his tail through
the gap in the back, and nods. I blink, trying not to stare at this
alien man, who looks so very different from us, different than any alien
I’ve ever seen in movies or television. His thick, long,
predominantly-white coat gleams with meticulous grooming. I resist the
urge to reach out and touch one of his muscular arms. I compose myself,
and begin the interview.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #45818e;">Me:</span> </u><i>
Greetings, and welcome to our world! I’d like for our readers to get
to know you a bit. Go ahead and introduce yourself, Kutius. May I call
you that?</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u><i>
My name is Tius of Clan Zuliarus, though many still call me by my given
name, Kutius. As you see, I look very different from humans. I am a
Furlite, a furry-coated, bipedal race of what you might call
dinosaurian mammalians. We certainly do not stand and walk the same way
you do, and we have tails. Nothing like your animal family exists on our
planet. </i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i>
We are descended from a species from a primate species that is now
extinct. We had a group of creatures on this planet called dinosaurs,
that went extinct some 60 million years ago. It’s fascinating primates
never evolved on your world. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;">K<u>utius:</u></span><i>
No, they did not. We have winged mammalians that take up that niche.
Many species of matissias and gerials live in the trees. They resemble
what your people’s mythical dragons look like, but with fur, and much
smaller.</i><br /><i> </i><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> I find that so wonderful. A place so different, yet giving rise to a dominant species. Tell the audience about your planet.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> We
live on Aroriel, a cold planet that is slightly larger than this one,
with slightly less land mass, and more ocean area. We evolved our furry
coats, as has most life on our world, to protect us from the harsh
climate. </i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> I imagine your society is similar to ours? What do you do in life? Tell us more about yourself.</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
I’m a successful business owner, running a big farm that supplies the
world with fickle Swikin (type of domestic fowl) meat. I was not always
so successful, but worked hard with my spouse to grow our business. I
like getting into every aspect of our business from the breeding, caring
for, and processing of the swikins. I enjoy working the land, to sow
the seeds of various plants to feed not only us but our award winning
product. I work alongside every employee on the farm.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> How many employees do you have?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Most
are Clan members, and they range from my father, who records breading
and also plows and sows the land, to my cousins who work with the
genetics of the swikins. My spouse keeps our books. My mother runs the
kitchen. We occasionally hire local primary School age children, (Kutius
pauses with raised furry brows, and I realize I am staring in
surprise.) What?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Do you endorse Child labor?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> No,
not young children, though all must eventually learn they must earn
what they have, and to contribute to their household. Primary school is
equivalent to your High school. (Kutius laughs)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Contribute?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Yes.
When they turn Primary school age of eighteen, uh, thirty of your
years, they should either get an after school job, or earn good enough
grades that they earn credits into their new vaults. They begin saving
for things like a shuttle to drive, or University schooling.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> I think I understand. You’re a long-lived people indeed. I’m jealous. Do children receive allowances from parents?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> No.
They earn credits by getting good grades. Our Clan pays the schools and
some of that is earned back by the children. For University studies,
our Clan may pay for us or we pay for it ourselves, or a mix of both.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Interesting system. Do you earn scholarships? Does Government help out at all?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
(gazes at me quizzically) Scholarships? I’m not sure I understand the
concept. Our Clans take care of the cost. Nobody else. Government does
not pay for anyone’s schooling or anything else in life.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i> Oh I see. What then is your Government's role?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Our
government is quite small, a council of our state Governors that
propose laws, and discuss complaints from the populace that meets once a
cinth. Proposed laws are put to the populace in referendum. Once the
Council affairs are done, they return to their normal jobs. (Kutius
scowls) I assume your Government is different, according to what
little I read about your society?</i><br /><i> </i><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Very
different, and I rather like the concept of yours. (My turn to scowl) I
don’t want to bore you with our convoluted system, so I’ll turn to a
more pleasant topic. What is your home life like?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
We live in multi-generational homes, sometimes with our Clan living in
many homes on the same street. In our case, we all live in my home,
which has twenty-five sleeping rooms with two stories. We have a large
dining area and Common room, but we also have our own rooms with
amenities in case we wish privacy. What my parents did by living alone
with just me, when I was growing up is extremely rare. I see it is
common for you humans.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Intriguing, and yes, it is. Many of us live completely alone. Do your people ever do that?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> It
is extremely rare, but I did so for years, while going to University,
and when I worked my first job. It was fine, but I did miss the house
full of loved ones, something I thought I’d never see again in life at
that time.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> (feeling
a tad uneasy as he stares at me with those cat-like, ice blue eyes)
Apologies for making you uncomfortable. Is it difficult raising these
Swikin?</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> I
am fine. It is difficult, but I figured out how to raise them
successfully and guard that information with my life. (He grins and I
notice his eight eyeteeth, one set larger than the other. They gleam in
the lighting.) Our farm is located in a tropical zone, and it is warm
all year, but, we do see occasional snow on the equator. The farm is
surrounded by jungle forests. The swikins are protected but can endure a
light snow and cold, as long as it is not much below the freezing mark.
Go a distance away to the subtropic zones and snow will fall in winter.
Further than that, we have snow at very least half of our year, which
is 1.7 times as long as yours.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i> My kind of planet! I love snow. Tell us where and when on Aroriel were you born?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
I was born on my grandmother’s prosperous farm, thirty nine of our
years ago, half a world away from my present home, in the State of
Auriga. I believe, if I calculate correctly, I’d be sixty-six years old
by your planet’s orbit. By our standards, I am still a very young man.
(Kutius utters a growling sigh) I loved that place, and I still do,
with the cold blustery snowy winters that I miss. I learned a lot during
my time there, which helps me in my current business.</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Oh, impressive! Your people are quite long-lived. Tell us about your Grandmother’s farm? Is it much like yours?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> It
is, and yet is not. For my first nine years (our years-fifteen by your
world’s measure), I grew up on my grandmother’s farm, surrounded by
loving clan and animals. I loved the open prairie lands where the farm
was located. Then, family conflict, which I prefer not to speak of at
this point, reared up, and my parents took off to live by themselves
across the continent into the northern forest land, with me tagging
along. The first couple of years were good, with my father’s clan around
but, after another conflict, we ended up destitute. (Kutius scowls,
ice-blue eyes narrowing) It all stemmed from the actions of a long dead
ancestor of whom I’d rather not discuss right now. I studied hard, and
eventually got myself out of that life. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> All right, I won’t pry. How would you describe yourself?</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u><i>
Successful, stern, and I have a ruthless streak. My family helps
balance me, and keep me from saying and doing things I might regret.
Physically I am about average size for my people, three hundred of your
pounds, and thanks to the work, lost my excess weight and built firm
strong muscles in its place.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Are you dating anyone?</i><br /><br /><i><u>Kutius:</u> I am not certain I understand the question. (Kutius flicks his thick dinosaur-like furry tail, and frowns.)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;">Me:</span><i> Ah. let me rephrase. Romantically that is. Are you in a relationship?</i><br /><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius</span></u><i>:
Of course. I bonded to my wonderful spouse several years ago. (He
smiles broadly, showing the impressive cutlery of a carnivore.)</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u><i> Bonded? Were you married before?</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
Yes, bonded. If by married, you mean bonded, no. When we bond, it is
generally for life. It is a physiological and emotional tie driven by
our bonding pheromones. It is only broken by death, and it is not
uncommon for the grieving spouse to die soon after. </i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u><i> You have no choice in who you bond to? </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i>
No. (Kutius frowns, his facial fur bristling) But it is rare for our
bondings to be wrong. Yes, weird things can happen like one person
bonding and the other does not, but when we bond, we are united, mind,
body and soul. The love is deeper than anything else in life. We cannot
have intercourse with anyone else but our spouses, and have no desire to
ever do so. We also cannot procreate until we do bond. Before bonding,
well, anyone is fair game, and multiple partners is the norm unless you
bond in childhood.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> You have sex as children? (I can’t help but gape at him)</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius: </span></u><i> No.
(Kutius laughs). The sexual pheromones develop at puberty, around
fourteen of our years old, twenty-four by your planet’s biological
clock. If you are bonded already, you only copulate with each other. If
you are not, you seek out new partners until, eventually, you do bond.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Do you have a marriage ceremony?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
If you mean a Bonding Ceremony, of course! Both Clans, as well as
friends of the couple gather, and a simple ceremony is performed, where
the couple chooses what Clan to join and what name their children will
bear. All is recorded with the town and state records.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Very intriguing. Tell everyone what it is you do when you’re not farming.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Relaxing
with my spouse, our Felakoon, and Clan, playing in our enormous
swimming pool, or visiting Clan on another continent, and holding huge
Clan gatherings on our estate, but we really enjoy our work, which is
almost non-stop. (Kutius grins, baring the tips of his upper fangs,
revealing all eight eye teeth again).</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u><i> What is a Felakoon? (I want to know more about them!)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> (regards
me with a smirk)Nonnative beings brought here by our people during the
first interstellar voyage. A member of Clan Darius genetically altered
the zygotes of an alien creature she called Felicakoon, but we have
since learned it was a Maine Coon feline. It’s a long story, but we also
bond to our Felakoons, without the mating urge. Its very much like the
parent-child bond, but stronger. I know you know what a Maine Coon is.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i>
Oh yes! (I laugh) I’ve had several in my lifetime and one of my present
ones is a blue smoke male named Darwin. Did you bring your Felakoon
with you?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
Of course. They accompany us since they are family. (Kutius turns his
head, and calls, waving a hand adorned with sharp finger-talons.)
Korion! (I watch, slack-jawed as an incredibility large, easily over
fifty pounds, black, long-furred feline, looking like a gigantic Maine
Coon cat, strolls out to join Kutius. His gold eyes regard me with
great intelligence, far more than even the most intelligent cat
(Phantom) I ever owned!)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i>(I regain my composure and resume my interview, utterly fascinated by Korion). He seems quite intelligent. How smart are they?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
As intelligent as a young school age Furlitian child. They are also
telepathic, and mindspeak their bondmates, and some can bespeak anyone.
As I said, they are members of the family, not only by virtue of their
bonding to us, but by law as well. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i> Fascinating.
I hope we will learn more about them soon. Since I love Maine Coons, I
can’t wait to meet more Felakoons, and certainly wish I could have one
of my own. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i>
I don’t think they can bond to humankind. They are genetically now
Aroriellian lifeforms, and linked to us. But, Korion wants me to tell
you he likes you. (The giant Felakoon walks over to me, gold eyes
bright, and I think I hear a purr that says “you may pet me!” I reach
out and tentatively touch his head and he purrs like a freight train! I
am enthralled and want one!)</i><br /><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> Tell
him I think he is fantastic. (I glance at the clock and realize time
runs low. Disappointment floods me.) I must wrap this up with this
question. Tell us about your worst fear.</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i>
My early life was filled with so much strife, and conflict with family.
I had few friends. When life turned and things worked out for me, I
still worried that it would all fall apart. I still fear, after all the
good that has happened, thanks to good fortune and hard work, that
something or someone will snatch it all away from me, including my home,
spouse and Korion. (Kutius looks down at the floor, and a shiver goes
over his body as he digs his impressive toe talons into the floor.)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> I
am sorry to dredge up such anxieties. I hope you never lose what you
worked so hard for. Very pleased to meet you, and I look forward to
people learning more about you as they read your tale. (I take his hand
in mine noting how large it is, with the thick black skin on his palm,
and the short white fur on the back. He is careful not to nick me with
his finger claws.)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius </u></span><i>
Thank you. I must meet Commander Geupetus and get my ride home. I never
thought I’d be on good terms with the Ship Commander and his Clan. I
once hated them all so much. Thank you for speaking with me, and I, too,
hope all people will enjoy my tale.</i><br /><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> As do I. Safe flight home. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> We
shall meet again I am sure. (He smiles and winks one eye, before
trotting out of the room with his beautiful Felakoon. I watch, seething
with more questions than answers, and know they wait between the pages
of this book!)</i></span></span></span></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/" style="color: #015782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><u><i>Furlitian Tales and Other Stories</i></u></a></span></span></span></span></span></h1>
Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-76515274125708434452018-08-29T17:35:00.003-04:002018-08-29T17:35:54.402-04:00<b><u><span style="color: #741b47;"><i>August 29, 2018</i></span></u></b><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">For fun we have an interview with the main character of <u>The Furlites of Aroriel: Curse of Koris</u>, to introduce you to him and his world, instead of your humble author!</span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">An Interview with the main character of <u> </u></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>CURSE OF KORIS</u></span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i> </i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><i>As I sit and wait for our guest, he walks in, striding on strong muscular legs, his tail stiff behind him, and his talons click on the smooth tile floor. He looks like a hairy flat-faced dinosaur, with large cat eyes the color of a glacier. He sits in the chair, slipping his tail through the gap in the back, and nods. I blink, trying not to stare at this alien man, who looks so very different from us, different than any alien I’ve ever seen in movies or television. His thick, long, predominantly-white coat gleams with meticulous grooming. I resist the urge to reach out and touch one of his muscular arms. I compose myself, and begin the interview.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #45818e;">Me:</span> </u><i> Greetings, and welcome to our world! I’d like for our readers to get to know you a bit. Go ahead and introduce yourself, Kutius. May I call you that?</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u><i> My name is Tius of Clan Zuliarus, though many still call me by my given name, Kutius. As you see, I look very different from humans. I am a Furlite, a furry-coated, bipedal race of what you might call dinosaurian mammalians. We certainly do not stand and walk the same way you do, and we have tails. Nothing like your animal family exists on our planet. </i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> We are descended from a species from a primate species that is now extinct. We had a group of creatures on this planet called dinosaurs, that went extinct some 60 million years ago. It’s fascinating primates never evolved on your world. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;">K<u>utius:</u></span><i> No, they did not. We have winged mammalians that take up that niche. Many species of matissias and gerials live in the trees. They resemble what your people’s mythical dragons look like, but with fur, and much smaller.</i><br /><i> </i><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> I find that so wonderful. A place so different, yet giving rise to a dominant species. Tell the audience about your planet.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> We live on Aroriel, a cold planet that is slightly larger than this one, with slightly less land mass, and more ocean area. We evolved our furry coats, as has most life on our world, to protect us from the harsh climate. </i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> I imagine your society is similar to ours? What do you do in life? Tell us more about yourself.</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> I’m a successful business owner, running a big farm that supplies the world with fickle Swikin (type of domestic fowl) meat. I was not always so successful, but worked hard with my spouse to grow our business. I like getting into every aspect of our business from the breeding, caring for, and processing of the swikins. I enjoy working the land, to sow the seeds of various plants to feed not only us but our award winning product. I work alongside every employee on the farm.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> How many employees do you have?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Most are Clan members, and they range from my father, who records breading and also plows and sows the land, to my cousins who work with the genetics of the swikins. My spouse keeps our books. My mother runs the kitchen. We occasionally hire local primary School age children, (Kutius pauses with raised furry brows, and I realize I am staring in surprise.) What?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Do you endorse Child labor?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> No, not young children, though all must eventually learn they must earn what they have, and to contribute to their household. Primary school is equivalent to your High school. (Kutius laughs)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Contribute?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Yes. When they turn Primary school age of eighteen, uh, thirty of your years, they should either get an after school job, or earn good enough grades that they earn credits into their new vaults. They begin saving for things like a shuttle to drive, or University schooling.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> I think I understand. You’re a long-lived people indeed. I’m jealous. Do children receive allowances from parents?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> No. They earn credits by getting good grades. Our Clan pays the schools and some of that is earned back by the children. For University studies, our Clan may pay for us or we pay for it ourselves, or a mix of both.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Interesting system. Do you earn scholarships? Does Government help out at all?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> (gazes at me quizzically) Scholarships? I’m not sure I understand the concept. Our Clans take care of the cost. Nobody else. Government does not pay for anyone’s schooling or anything else in life.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i> Oh I see. What then is your Government's role?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Our government is quite small, a council of our state Governors that propose laws, and discuss complaints from the populace that meets once a cinth. Proposed laws are put to the populace in referendum. Once the Council affairs are done, they return to their normal jobs. (Kutius scowls) I assume your Government is different, according to what little I read about your society?</i><br /><i> </i><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Very different, and I rather like the concept of yours. (My turn to scowl) I don’t want to bore you with our convoluted system, so I’ll turn to a more pleasant topic. What is your home life like?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> We live in multi-generational homes, sometimes with our Clan living in many homes on the same street. In our case, we all live in my home, which has twenty-five sleeping rooms with two stories. We have a large dining area and Common room, but we also have our own rooms with amenities in case we wish privacy. What my parents did by living alone with just me, when I was growing up is extremely rare. I see it is common for you humans.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Intriguing, and yes, it is. Many of us live completely alone. Do your people ever do that?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> It is extremely rare, but I did so for years, while going to University, and when I worked my first job. It was fine, but I did miss the house full of loved ones, something I thought I’d never see again in life at that time.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> (feeling a tad uneasy as he stares at me with those cat-like, ice blue eyes) Apologies for making you uncomfortable. Is it difficult raising these Swikin?</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> I am fine. It is difficult, but I figured out how to raise them successfully and guard that information with my life. (He grins and I notice his eight eyeteeth, one set larger than the other. They gleam in the lighting.) Our farm is located in a tropical zone, and it is warm all year, but, we do see occasional snow on the equator. The farm is surrounded by jungle forests. The swikins are protected but can endure a light snow and cold, as long as it is not much below the freezing mark. Go a distance away to the subtropic zones and snow will fall in winter. Further than that, we have snow at very least half of our year, which is 1.7 times as long as yours.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i> My kind of planet! I love snow. Tell us where and when on Aroriel were you born?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> I was born on my grandmother’s prosperous farm, thirty nine of our years ago, half a world away from my present home, in the State of Auriga. I believe, if I calculate correctly, I’d be sixty-six years old by your planet’s orbit. By our standards, I am still a very young man. (Kutius utters a growling sigh) I loved that place, and I still do, with the cold blustery snowy winters that I miss. I learned a lot during my time there, which helps me in my current business.</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Oh, impressive! Your people are quite long-lived. Tell us about your Grandmother’s farm? Is it much like yours?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> It is, and yet is not. For my first nine years (our years-fifteen by your world’s measure), I grew up on my grandmother’s farm, surrounded by loving clan and animals. I loved the open prairie lands where the farm was located. Then, family conflict, which I prefer not to speak of at this point, reared up, and my parents took off to live by themselves across the continent into the northern forest land, with me tagging along. The first couple of years were good, with my father’s clan around but, after another conflict, we ended up destitute. (Kutius scowls, ice-blue eyes narrowing) It all stemmed from the actions of a long dead ancestor of whom I’d rather not discuss right now. I studied hard, and eventually got myself out of that life. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> All right, I won’t pry. How would you describe yourself?</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u><i> Successful, stern, and I have a ruthless streak. My family helps balance me, and keep me from saying and doing things I might regret. Physically I am about average size for my people, three hundred of your pounds, and thanks to the work, lost my excess weight and built firm strong muscles in its place.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Are you dating anyone?</i><br /><br /><i><u>Kutius:</u> I am not certain I understand the question. (Kutius flicks his thick dinosaur-like furry tail, and frowns.)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;">Me:</span><i> Ah. let me rephrase. Romantically that is. Are you in a relationship?</i><br /><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius</span></u><i>: Of course. I bonded to my wonderful spouse several years ago. (He smiles broadly, showing the impressive cutlery of a carnivore.)</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u><i> Bonded? Were you married before?</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> Yes, bonded. If by married, you mean bonded, no. When we bond, it is generally for life. It is a physiological and emotional tie driven by our bonding pheromones. It is only broken by death, and it is not uncommon for the grieving spouse to die soon after. </i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u><i> You have no choice in who you bond to? </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> No. (Kutius frowns, his facial fur bristling) But it is rare for our bondings to be wrong. Yes, weird things can happen like one person bonding and the other does not, but when we bond, we are united, mind, body and soul. The love is deeper than anything else in life. We cannot have intercourse with anyone else but our spouses, and have no desire to ever do so. We also cannot procreate until we do bond. Before bonding, well, anyone is fair game, and multiple partners is the norm unless you bond in childhood.</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> You have sex as children? (I can’t help but gape at him)</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius: </span></u><i> No. (Kutius laughs). The sexual pheromones develop at puberty, around fourteen of our years old, twenty-four by your planet’s biological clock. If you are bonded already, you only copulate with each other. If you are not, you seek out new partners until, eventually, you do bond.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Do you have a marriage ceremony?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> If you mean a Bonding Ceremony, of course! Both Clans, as well as friends of the couple gather, and a simple ceremony is performed, where the couple chooses what Clan to join and what name their children will bear. All is recorded with the town and state records.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Very intriguing. Tell everyone what it is you do when you’re not farming.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> Relaxing with my spouse, our Felakoon, and Clan, playing in our enormous swimming pool, or visiting Clan on another continent, and holding huge Clan gatherings on our estate, but we really enjoy our work, which is almost non-stop. (Kutius grins, baring the tips of his upper fangs, revealing all eight eye teeth again).</i><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u><i> What is a Felakoon? (I want to know more about them!)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> (regards me with a smirk)Nonnative beings brought here by our people during the first interstellar voyage. A member of Clan Darius genetically altered the zygotes of an alien creature she called Felicakoon, but we have since learned it was a Maine Coon feline. It’s a long story, but we also bond to our Felakoons, without the mating urge. Its very much like the parent-child bond, but stronger. I know you know what a Maine Coon is.</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> Oh yes! (I laugh) I’ve had several in my lifetime and one of my present ones is a blue smoke male named Darwin. Did you bring your Felakoon with you?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> Of course. They accompany us since they are family. (Kutius turns his head, and calls, waving a hand adorned with sharp finger-talons.) Korion! (I watch, slack-jawed as an incredibility large, easily over fifty pounds, black, long-furred feline, looking like a gigantic Maine Coon cat, strolls out to join Kutius. His gold eyes regard me with great intelligence, far more than even the most intelligent cat (Phantom) I ever owned!)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i>(I regain my composure and resume my interview, utterly fascinated by Korion). He seems quite intelligent. How smart are they?</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> As intelligent as a young school age Furlitian child. They are also telepathic, and mindspeak their bondmates, and some can bespeak anyone. As I said, they are members of the family, not only by virtue of their bonding to us, but by law as well. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me: </u></span><i> Fascinating. I hope we will learn more about them soon. Since I love Maine Coons, I can’t wait to meet more Felakoons, and certainly wish I could have one of my own. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius:</u></span><i> I don’t think they can bond to humankind. They are genetically now Aroriellian lifeforms, and linked to us. But, Korion wants me to tell you he likes you. (The giant Felakoon walks over to me, gold eyes bright, and I think I hear a purr that says “you may pet me!” I reach out and tentatively touch his head and he purrs like a freight train! I am enthralled and want one!)</i><br /><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> Tell him I think he is fantastic. (I glance at the clock and realize time runs low. Disappointment floods me.) I must wrap this up with this question. Tell us about your worst fear.</i><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> My early life was filled with so much strife, and conflict with family. I had few friends. When life turned and things worked out for me, I still worried that it would all fall apart. I still fear, after all the good that has happened, thanks to good fortune and hard work, that something or someone will snatch it all away from me, including my home, spouse and Korion. (Kutius looks down at the floor, and a shiver goes over his body as he digs his impressive toe talons into the floor.)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Me:</u></span><i> I am sorry to dredge up such anxieties. I hope you never lose what you worked so hard for. Very pleased to meet you, and I look forward to people learning more about you as they read your tale. (I take his hand in mine noting how large it is, with the thick black skin on his palm, and the short white fur on the back. He is careful not to nick me with his finger claws.)</i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius </u></span><i> Thank you. I must meet Commander Geupetus and get my ride home. I never thought I’d be on good terms with the Ship Commander and his Clan. I once hated them all so much. Thank you for speaking with me, and I, too, hope all people will enjoy my tale.</i><br /><br /><br /><u style="font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u><i> As do I. Safe flight home. </i><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d; font-style: italic;"><u>Kutius: </u></span><i> We shall meet again I am sure. (He smiles and winks one eye, before trotting out of the room with his beautiful Felakoon. I watch, seething with more questions than answers, and know they wait between the pages of this book!)</i></span></span></span></span></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;"></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif;">As always, if you're intrigued by my work, visit my author page</span> at </span></span></i><span style="color: #a64d79;"><b><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Marie-J-S-Phillips/e/B006GSBNAG" style="color: #015782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">amazon.com/author/mariejsphillips</span></span></a></span></span></span></b></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><span style="color: #38761d;">and my website for chapter samples and excerpts!</span> </i></span></span> </h1>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"> <a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/" style="color: #015782; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><u><i>Furlitian Tales and Other Stories</i></u></a></span></span></span></span></span></h1>
Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-91350484317077344232017-04-08T11:51:00.001-04:002017-04-08T11:51:43.861-04:002017 Brain to Books Hop!!<h1 class="topicHeaderFix">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2017 Brain To Books Convention </span>GIVEAWAY of my latest science fiction novel, <i><u>Curse of Koris,</u></i> part of the <i><u>Furlites of Aroriel</u></i> series.</span></span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Simply stop by and drop me a comment <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">for a chance to win<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> hardcover and paperback signed copy or Kindle versions! </span></span></span></span></span></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">To enter, leave a comment (with your email) to be
included in the Giveaway of signed, hardcover and paperback editions of the book, as
well as Kindle editions!</span></span></span></i></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">For fun we have an interview with the main character to introduce you to him and his world, instead of your humble author!</span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">An Interview with the main character of <u> </u></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>CURSE OF KORIS</u></span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #6aa84f;">As
I sit and wait for our guest, he walks in, striding on strong muscular
legs, his tail stiff behind him, and his talons click on the smooth tile
floor. He looks like a hairy flat-faced dinosaur, with large cat eyes
the color of a glacier. He sits in the chair, slipping his tail through
the gap in the back, and nods. I blink, trying not to stare at this
alien man, who looks so very different from us, different than any alien
I’ve ever seen in movies or television. His thick, long,
predominantly-white coat gleams with meticulous grooming. I resist the
urge to reach out and touch one of his muscular arms. I compose myself,
and begin the interview.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #45818e;">Me:</span> </u>
Greetings, and welcome to our world! I’d like for our readers to get
to know you a bit. Go ahead and introduce yourself, Kutius. May I call
you that?<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u> My name
is Tius of Clan Zuliarus, though many still call me by my given name,
Kutius. As you see, I look very different from humans. I am a Furlite, a
furry-coated, bipedal race of what you might call dinosaurian
mammalians. We certainly do not stand and walk the same way you do, and
we have tails. Nothing like your animal family exists on our planet. <br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u>
We are descended from a species from a primate species that is now
extinct. We had a group of creatures on this planet called dinosaurs,
that went extinct some 60 million years ago. It’s fascinating primates
never evolved on your world. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;">K<u>utius:</u></span>
No, they did not. We have winged mammalians that take up that niche.
Many species of matissias and gerials live in the trees. They resemble
what your people’s mythical dragons look like, but with fur, and much
smaller.<br /> <br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> I find that so wonderful. A place so different, yet giving rise to a dominant species. Tell the audience about your planet.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
We live on Aroriel, a cold planet that is slightly larger than this
one, with slightly less land mass, and more ocean area. We evolved our
furry coats, as has most life on our world, to protect us from the harsh
climate. <br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> I imagine your society is similar to ours? What do you do in life? Tell us more about yourself.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
I’m a successful business owner, running a big farm that supplies the
world with fickle Swikin (type of domestic fowl) meat. I was not always
so successful, but worked hard with my spouse to grow our business. I
like getting into every aspect of our business from the breeding, caring
for, and processing of the swikins. I enjoy working the land, to sow
the seeds of various plants to feed not only us but our award winning
product. I work alongside every employee on the farm.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> How many employees do you have?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Most are Clan members, and they range from my father, who records
breading and also plows and sows the land, to my cousins who work with
the genetics of the swikins. My spouse keeps our books. My mother runs
the kitchen. We occasionally hire local primary School age children,
(Kutius pauses with raised furry brows, and I realize I am staring in
surprise.) What?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Do you endorse Child labor?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
No, not young children, though all must eventually learn they must earn
what they have, and to contribute to their household. Primary school is
equivalent to your High school. (Kutius laughs)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Contribute?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Yes. When they turn Primary school age of eighteen, uh, thirty of your
years, they should either get a an after school job, or earn good enough
grades that they earn credits into their new vaults. They begin saving
for things like a shuttle to drive, or University schooling.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> I think I understand. You’re a long-lived people indeed. I’m jealous. Do children receive allowances from parents?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
No. They earn credits by getting good grades. Our Clan pays the schools
and some of that is earned back by the children. For University
studies, our Clan may pay for us or we pay for it ourselves, or a mix of
both.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Interesting system. Do you earn scholarships? Does Government help out at all?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
(gazes at me quizzically) Scholarships? I’m not sure I understand the
concept. Our Clans take care of the cost. Nobody else. Government does
not pay for anyone’s schooling or anything else in life.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span> Oh I see. What then is your Government's role?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Our government is quite small, a council of our state Governors that
propose laws, and discuss complaints from the populace that meets once a
cinth. Proposed laws are put to the populace in referendum. Once the
Council affairs are done, they return to their normal jobs. (Kutius
scowls) I assume your Government is different, according to what
little I read about your society?<br /> <br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
Very different, and I rather like the concept of yours. (My turn to
scowl) I don’t want to bore you with our convoluted system, so I’ll turn
to a more pleasant topic. What is your home life like?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
We live in multi-generational homes, sometimes with our Clan living in
many homes on the same street. In our case, we all live in my home,
which has twenty-five sleeping rooms with two stories. We have a large
dining area and Common room, but we also have our own rooms with
amenities in case we wish privacy. What my parents did by living alone
with just me, when I was growing up is extremely rare. I see it is
common for you humans.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Intriguing, and yes, it is. Many of us live completely alone. Do your people ever do that?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
It is extremely rare, but I did so for years, while going to
University, and when I worked my first job. It was fine, but I did miss
the house full of loved ones, something I thought I’d never see again
in life at that time.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
(feeling a tad uneasy as he stares at me with those cat-like, ice blue
eyes) Apologies for making you uncomfortable. Is it difficult raising
these Swikin?<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span> I
am fine. It is difficult, but I figured out how to raise them
successfully and guard that information with my life. (He grins and I
notice his eight eyeteeth, one set larger than the other. They gleam in
the lighting.) Our farm is located in a tropical zone, and it is warm
all year, but, we do see occasional snow on the equator. The farm is
surrounded by jungle forests. The swikins are protected but can endure a
light snow and cold, as long as it is not much below the freezing mark.
Go a distance away to the subtropic zones and snow will fall in winter.
Further than that, we have snow at very least half of our year, which
is 1.7 times as long as yours.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span> My kind of planet! I love snow. Tell us where and when on Aroriel were you born?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
I was born on my grandmother’s prosperous farm, thirty nine of our
years ago, half a world away from my present home, in the State of
Auriga. I believe, if I calculate correctly, I’d be sixty-six years old
by your planet’s orbit. By our standards, I am still a very young man.
(Kutius utters a growling sigh) I loved that place, and I still do,
with the cold blustery snowy winters that I miss. I learned a lot during
my time there, which helps me in my current business.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Oh, impressive! Your people are quite long-lived. Tell us about your Grandmother’s farm? Is it much like yours?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
It is, and yet is not. For my first nine years (our years-fifteen by
your world’s measure), I grew up on my grandmother’s farm, surrounded by
loving clan and animals. I loved the open prairie lands where the farm
was located. Then, family conflict, which I prefer not to speak of at
this point, reared up, and my parents took off to live by themselves
across the continent into the northern forest land, with me tagging
along. The first couple of years were good, with my father’s clan around
but, after another conflict, we ended up destitute. (Kutius scowls,
ice-blue eyes narrowing) It all stemmed from the actions of a long dead
ancestor of whom I’d rather not discuss right now. I studied hard, and
eventually got myself out of that life. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> All right, I won’t pry. How would you describe yourself?<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u>
Successful, stern, and I have a ruthless streak. My family helps
balance me, and keep me from saying and doing things I might regret.
Physically I am about average size for my people, three hundred of your
pounds, and thanks to the work, lost my excess weight and built firm
strong muscles in its place.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Are you dating anyone?<br /><br />Kutius: I am not certain I understand the question. (Kutius flicks his thick dinosaur-like furry tail, and frowns.)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span> Ah. let me rephrase. Romantically that is. Are you in a relationship?<br /><br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius</span></u>:
Of course. I bonded to my wonderful spouse several years ago. (He
smiles broadly, showing the impressive cutlery of a carnivore.)<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u> Bonded? Were you married before?<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
Yes, bonded. If by married, you mean bonded, no. When we bond, it is
generally for life. It is a physiological and emotional tie driven by
our bonding pheromones. It is only broken by death, and it is not
uncommon for the grieving spouse to die soon after. <br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u> You have no choice in who you bond to? <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
No. (Kutius frowns, his facial fur bristling) But it is rare for our
bondings to be wrong. Yes, weird things can happen like one person
bonding and the other does not, but when we bond, we are united, mind,
body and soul. The love is deeper than anything else in life. We cannot
have intercourse with anyone else but our spouses, and have no desire to
ever do so. We also cannot procreate until we do bond. Before bonding,
well, anyone is fair game, and multiple partners is the norm unless you
bond in childhood.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> You have sex as children? (I can’t help but gape at him)<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius: </span></u>
No. (Kutius laughs). The sexual pheromones develop at puberty, around
fourteen of our years old, twenty-four by your planet’s biological
clock. If you are bonded already, you only copulate with each other. If
you are not, you seek out new partners until, eventually, you do bond.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Do you have a marriage ceremony?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
If you mean a Bonding Ceremony, of course! Both Clans, as well as
friends of the couple gather, and a simple ceremony is performed, where
the couple chooses what Clan to join and what name their children will
bear. All is recorded with the town and state records.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Very intriguing. Tell everyone what it is you do when you’re not farming.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Relaxing with my spouse, our Felakoon, and Clan, playing in our
enormous swimming pool, or visiting Clan on another continent, and
holding huge Clan gatherings on our estate, but we really enjoy our
work, which is almost non-stop. (Kutius grins, baring the tips of his
upper fangs, revealing all eight eye teeth again).<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u> What is a Felakoon? (I want to know more about them!)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
(regards me with a smirk)Nonnative beings brought here by our people
during the first interstellar voyage. A member of Clan Darius
genetically altered the zygotes of an alien creature she called
Felicakoon, but we have since learned it was a Maine Coon feline. It’s a
long story, but we also bond to our Felakoons, without the mating urge.
Its very much like the parent-child bond, but stronger. I know you know
what a Maine Coon is.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
Oh yes! (I laugh) I’ve had several in my lifetime and my present one is a
blue smoke named Darwin. Did you bring your Felakoon with you?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
Of course. They accompany us since they are family. (Kutius turns his
head, and calls, waving a hand adorned with sharp finger-talons.)
Korion! (I watch, slack-jawed as an incredibility large, easily over
fifty pounds, black, long-furred feline, looking like a gigantic Maine
Coon cat, strolls out to join Kutius. His gold eyes regard me with
great intelligence, far more than even the most intelligent cat
(Phantom) I ever owned!)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span>(I regain my composure and resume my interview, utterly fascinated by Korion). He seems quite intelligent. How smart are they?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
As intelligent as a young school age Furlitian child. They are also
telepathic, and mindspeak their bondmates, and some can bespeak anyone.
As I said, they are members of the family, not only by virtue of their
bonding to us, but by law as well. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span>
Fascinating. I hope we will learn more about them soon. Since I love
Maine Coons, I can’t wait to meet more Felakoons, and certainly wish I
could have one of my own. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
I don’t think they can bond to humankind. They are genetically now
Aroriellian lifeforms, and linked to us. But, Korion wants me to tell
you he likes you. (The giant Felakoon walks over to me, gold eyes
bright, and I think I hear a purr that says “you may pet me!” I reach
out and tentatively touch his head and he purrs like a freight train! I
am enthralled and want one!)<br /><br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u>
Tell him I think he is fantastic. (I glance at the clock and realize
time runs low. Disappointment floods me.) I must wrap this up with this
question. Tell us about your worst fear.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
My early life was filled with so much strife, and conflict with family.
I had few friends. When life turned and things worked out for me, I
still worried that it would all fall apart. I still fear, after all the
good that has happened, thanks to good fortune and hard work, that
something or someone will snatch it all away from me, including my home,
spouse and Korion. (Kutius looks down at the floor, and a shiver goes
over his body as he digs his impressive toe talons into the floor.)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
I am sorry to dredge up such anxieties. I hope you never lose what you
worked so hard for. Very pleased to meet you, and I look forward to
people learning more about you as they read your tale. (I take his hand
in mine noting how large it is, with the thick black skin on his palm,
and the short white fur on the back. He is careful not to nick me with
his finger claws.)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius </u></span>
Thank you. I must meet Commander Geupetus and get my ride home. I never
thought I’d be on good terms with the Ship Commander and his Clan. I
once hated them all so much. Thank you for speaking with me, and I, too,
hope all people will enjoy my tale.<br /><br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> As do I. Safe flight home. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
We shall meet again I am sure. (He smiles and winks one eye, before
trotting out of the room with his beautiful Felakoon. I watch, seething
with more questions than answers, and know they wait between the pages
of this book!) </span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></span></span></i></h1>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">fter the Giveaway,</span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span>Winners , if you enjoyed it, share the love<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> a<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">t the links below!</span></span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://www.lulu.com/shop/marie-j-s-phillips/the-furlites-of-aroriel-curse-of-koris/hardcover/product-21735418.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.lulu.com/shop/marie-j-s-phillips/the-furlites-of-aroriel-curse-of-koris/hardcover/product-21735418.html </span></a></span></span></span></i></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: blue;">http://askdavid.com/reviews/book/science-fiction/11462 </span> </span></span></span></i></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As always, if you're intrigued by my work, visit my author page</span> at</span></span></i> <span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Marie-J-S-Phillips/e/B006GSBNAG" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">amazon.com/author/mariejsphillips</span> </span></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #38761d;">and my website for chapter samples and excerpts!</span> </i></span></span> </h1>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/" target="_blank"><u><i>Furlitian Tales and Other Stories</i></u></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></h1>
Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-76511840390584613962016-05-31T13:59:00.002-04:002016-05-31T14:14:48.354-04:00Brain To Books INDIE PRIDE DAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Join the fun on July 1st, and have a chance to win free books and other swag!</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>My own Giveaway is a free copy of KHAN: A MAINE COON. . .print or Kindle version!</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></span>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-29316812188395750562016-04-11T10:24:00.001-04:002016-04-27T15:31:15.770-04:00A Spring 2016 GIVEAWAY -Curse of Koris<h1 class="topicHeaderFix">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-size: large;"> A S<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">prin<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">g</span></span> 2016 GIVEAWAY of my latest science fiction novel, <i><u>Curse of Koris,</u></i> part of the <i><u>Furlites of Aroriel</u></i> series.</span></span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Simply stop by and drop me a comment <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">for a chance to win<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> hardcover and paperback signed copy or Kindle versions! Giveaway closes June 1, 2016.</span></span></span></span></span></h1>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqpCuzOT13y18wBaeFoPKXKtjAtSpSrUM_7fDvp9iBgkoBTqYbuMcID0tyXkLlmWyh98_944a8ABbs-uFrCQJDCTDg3Sg9eQEVG0yCDBb309OQQZ9hfhFDMedCEgl6McngE2RrBbPH7s/s1600/KitiusCover2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDqpCuzOT13y18wBaeFoPKXKtjAtSpSrUM_7fDvp9iBgkoBTqYbuMcID0tyXkLlmWyh98_944a8ABbs-uFrCQJDCTDg3Sg9eQEVG0yCDBb309OQQZ9hfhFDMedCEgl6McngE2RrBbPH7s/s320/KitiusCover2.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">To enter, leave a comment (with your email) to be
included in the Giveaway of signed, hardcover and paperback editions of the book, as
well as Kindle editions!</span></span></span></i></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">For fun we have an interview with the main character to introduce you to him and his world, instead of your humble author!</span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">An Interview with the main character of <u> </u></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>CURSE OF KORIS</u></span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #6aa84f;">As
I sit and wait for our guest, he walks in, striding on strong muscular
legs, his tail stiff behind him, and his talons click on the smooth tile
floor. He looks like a hairy flat-faced dinosaur, with large cat eyes
the color of a glacier. He sits in the chair, slipping his tail through
the gap in the back, and nods. I blink, trying not to stare at this
alien man, who looks so very different from us, different than any alien
I’ve ever seen in movies or television. His thick, long,
predominantly-white coat gleams with meticulous grooming. I resist the
urge to reach out and touch one of his muscular arms. I compose myself,
and begin the interview.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #45818e;">Me:</span> </u>
Greetings, and welcome to our world! I’d like for our readers to get
to know you a bit. Go ahead and introduce yourself, Kutius. May I call
you that?<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u> My name
is Tius of Clan Zuliarus, though many still call me by my given name,
Kutius. As you see, I look very different from humans. I am a Furlite, a
furry-coated, bipedal race of what you might call dinosaurian
mammalians. We certainly do not stand and walk the same way you do, and
we have tails. Nothing like your animal family exists on our planet. <br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u>
We are descended from a species from a primate species that is now
extinct. We had a group of creatures on this planet called dinosaurs,
that went extinct some 60 million years ago. It’s fascinating primates
never evolved on your world. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;">K<u>utius:</u></span>
No, they did not. We have winged mammalians that take up that niche.
Many species of matissias and gerials live in the trees. They resemble
what your people’s mythical dragons look like, but with fur, and much
smaller.<br /> <br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> I find that so wonderful. A place so different, yet giving rise to a dominant species. Tell the audience about your planet.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
We live on Aroriel, a cold planet that is slightly larger than this
one, with slightly less land mass, and more ocean area. We evolved our
furry coats, as has most life on our world, to protect us from the harsh
climate. <br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> I imagine your society is similar to ours? What do you do in life? Tell us more about yourself.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
I’m a successful business owner, running a big farm that supplies the
world with fickle Swikin (type of domestic fowl) meat. I was not always
so successful, but worked hard with my spouse to grow our business. I
like getting into every aspect of our business from the breeding, caring
for, and processing of the swikins. I enjoy working the land, to sow
the seeds of various plants to feed not only us but our award winning
product. I work alongside every employee on the farm.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> How many employees do you have?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Most are Clan members, and they range from my father, who records
breading and also plows and sows the land, to my cousins who work with
the genetics of the swikins. My spouse keeps our books. My mother runs
the kitchen. We occasionally hire local primary School age children,
(Kutius pauses with raised furry brows, and I realize I am staring in
surprise.) What?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Do you endorse Child labor?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
No, not young children, though all must eventually learn they must earn
what they have, and to contribute to their household. Primary school is
equivalent to your High school. (Kutius laughs)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Contribute?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Yes. When they turn Primary school age of eighteen, uh, thirty of your
years, they should either get a an after school job, or earn good enough
grades that they earn credits into their new vaults. They begin saving
for things like a shuttle to drive, or University schooling.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> I think I understand. You’re a long-lived people indeed. I’m jealous. Do children receive allowances from parents?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
No. They earn credits by getting good grades. Our Clan pays the schools
and some of that is earned back by the children. For University
studies, our Clan may pay for us or we pay for it ourselves, or a mix of
both.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Interesting system. Do you earn scholarships? Does Government help out at all?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
(gazes at me quizzically) Scholarships? I’m not sure I understand the
concept. Our Clans take care of the cost. Nobody else. Government does
not pay for anyone’s schooling or anything else in life.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span> Oh I see. What then is your Government's role?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Our government is quite small, a council of our state Governors that
propose laws, and discuss complaints from the populace that meets once a
cinth. Proposed laws are put to the populace in referendum. Once the
Council affairs are done, they return to their normal jobs. (Kutius
scowls) I assume your Government is different, according to what
little I read about your society?<br /> <br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
Very different, and I rather like the concept of yours. (My turn to
scowl) I don’t want to bore you with our convoluted system, so I’ll turn
to a more pleasant topic. What is your home life like?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
We live in multi-generational homes, sometimes with our Clan living in
many homes on the same street. In our case, we all live in my home,
which has twenty-five sleeping rooms with two stories. We have a large
dining area and Common room, but we also have our own rooms with
amenities in case we wish privacy. What my parents did by living alone
with just me, when I was growing up is extremely rare. I see it is
common for you humans.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Intriguing, and yes, it is. Many of us live completely alone. Do your people ever do that?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
It is extremely rare, but I did so for years, while going to
University, and when I worked my first job. It was fine, but I did miss
the house full of loved ones, something I thought I’d never see again
in life at that time.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
(feeling a tad uneasy as he stares at me with those cat-like, ice blue
eyes) Apologies for making you uncomfortable. Is it difficult raising
these Swikin?<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span> I
am fine. It is difficult, but I figured out how to raise them
successfully and guard that information with my life. (He grins and I
notice his eight eyeteeth, one set larger than the other. They gleam in
the lighting.) Our farm is located in a tropical zone, and it is warm
all year, but, we do see occasional snow on the equator. The farm is
surrounded by jungle forests. The swikins are protected but can endure a
light snow and cold, as long as it is not much below the freezing mark.
Go a distance away to the subtropic zones and snow will fall in winter.
Further than that, we have snow at very least half of our year, which
is 1.7 times as long as yours.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span> My kind of planet! I love snow. Tell us where and when on Aroriel were you born?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
I was born on my grandmother’s prosperous farm, thirty nine of our
years ago, half a world away from my present home, in the State of
Auriga. I believe, if I calculate correctly, I’d be sixty-six years old
by your planet’s orbit. By our standards, I am still a very young man.
(Kutius utters a growling sigh) I loved that place, and I still do,
with the cold blustery snowy winters that I miss. I learned a lot during
my time there, which helps me in my current business.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Oh, impressive! Your people are quite long-lived. Tell us about your Grandmother’s farm? Is it much like yours?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
It is, and yet is not. For my first nine years (our years-fifteen by
your world’s measure), I grew up on my grandmother’s farm, surrounded by
loving clan and animals. I loved the open prairie lands where the farm
was located. Then, family conflict, which I prefer not to speak of at
this point, reared up, and my parents took off to live by themselves
across the continent into the northern forest land, with me tagging
along. The first couple of years were good, with my father’s clan around
but, after another conflict, we ended up destitute. (Kutius scowls,
ice-blue eyes narrowing) It all stemmed from the actions of a long dead
ancestor of whom I’d rather not discuss right now. I studied hard, and
eventually got myself out of that life. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> All right, I won’t pry. How would you describe yourself?<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius:</span></u>
Successful, stern, and I have a ruthless streak. My family helps
balance me, and keep me from saying and doing things I might regret.
Physically I am about average size for my people, three hundred of your
pounds, and thanks to the work, lost my excess weight and built firm
strong muscles in its place.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Are you dating anyone?<br /><br />Kutius: I am not certain I understand the question. (Kutius flicks his thick dinosaur-like furry tail, and frowns.)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span> Ah. let me rephrase. Romantically that is. Are you in a relationship?<br /><br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius</span></u>:
Of course. I bonded to my wonderful spouse several years ago. (He
smiles broadly, showing the impressive cutlery of a carnivore.)<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u> Bonded? Were you married before?<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
Yes, bonded. If by married, you mean bonded, no. When we bond, it is
generally for life. It is a physiological and emotional tie driven by
our bonding pheromones. It is only broken by death, and it is not
uncommon for the grieving spouse to die soon after. <br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u> You have no choice in who you bond to? <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
No. (Kutius frowns, his facial fur bristling) But it is rare for our
bondings to be wrong. Yes, weird things can happen like one person
bonding and the other does not, but when we bond, we are united, mind,
body and soul. The love is deeper than anything else in life. We cannot
have intercourse with anyone else but our spouses, and have no desire to
ever do so. We also cannot procreate until we do bond. Before bonding,
well, anyone is fair game, and multiple partners is the norm unless you
bond in childhood.<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> You have sex as children? (I can’t help but gape at him)<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Kutius: </span></u>
No. (Kutius laughs). The sexual pheromones develop at puberty, around
fourteen of our years old, twenty-four by your planet’s biological
clock. If you are bonded already, you only copulate with each other. If
you are not, you seek out new partners until, eventually, you do bond.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Do you have a marriage ceremony?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
If you mean a Bonding Ceremony, of course! Both Clans, as well as
friends of the couple gather, and a simple ceremony is performed, where
the couple chooses what Clan to join and what name their children will
bear. All is recorded with the town and state records.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span> Very intriguing. Tell everyone what it is you do when you’re not farming.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
Relaxing with my spouse, our Felakoon, and Clan, playing in our
enormous swimming pool, or visiting Clan on another continent, and
holding huge Clan gatherings on our estate, but we really enjoy our
work, which is almost non-stop. (Kutius grins, baring the tips of his
upper fangs, revealing all eight eye teeth again).<br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me: </span></u> What is a Felakoon? (I want to know more about them!)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
(regards me with a smirk)Nonnative beings brought here by our people
during the first interstellar voyage. A member of Clan Darius
genetically altered the zygotes of an alien creature she called
Felicakoon, but we have since learned it was a Maine Coon feline. It’s a
long story, but we also bond to our Felakoons, without the mating urge.
Its very much like the parent-child bond, but stronger. I know you know
what a Maine Coon is.<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
Oh yes! (I laugh) I’ve had several in my lifetime and my present one is a
blue smoke named Darwin. Did you bring your Felakoon with you?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
Of course. They accompany us since they are family. (Kutius turns his
head, and calls, waving a hand adorned with sharp finger-talons.)
Korion! (I watch, slack-jawed as an incredibility large, easily over
fifty pounds, black, long-furred feline, looking like a gigantic Maine
Coon cat, strolls out to join Kutius. His gold eyes regard me with
great intelligence, far more than even the most intelligent cat
(Phantom) I ever owned!)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span>(I regain my composure and resume my interview, utterly fascinated by Korion). He seems quite intelligent. How smart are they?<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
As intelligent as a young school age Furlitian child. They are also
telepathic, and mindspeak their bondmates, and some can bespeak anyone.
As I said, they are members of the family, not only by virtue of their
bonding to us, but by law as well. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me: </u></span>
Fascinating. I hope we will learn more about them soon. Since I love
Maine Coons, I can’t wait to meet more Felakoons, and certainly wish I
could have one of my own. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius:</u></span>
I don’t think they can bond to humankind. They are genetically now
Aroriellian lifeforms, and linked to us. But, Korion wants me to tell
you he likes you. (The giant Felakoon walks over to me, gold eyes
bright, and I think I hear a purr that says “you may pet me!” I reach
out and tentatively touch his head and he purrs like a freight train! I
am enthralled and want one!)<br /><br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u>
Tell him I think he is fantastic. (I glance at the clock and realize
time runs low. Disappointment floods me.) I must wrap this up with this
question. Tell us about your worst fear.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
My early life was filled with so much strife, and conflict with family.
I had few friends. When life turned and things worked out for me, I
still worried that it would all fall apart. I still fear, after all the
good that has happened, thanks to good fortune and hard work, that
something or someone will snatch it all away from me, including my home,
spouse and Korion. (Kutius looks down at the floor, and a shiver goes
over his body as he digs his impressive toe talons into the floor.)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Me:</u></span>
I am sorry to dredge up such anxieties. I hope you never lose what you
worked so hard for. Very pleased to meet you, and I look forward to
people learning more about you as they read your tale. (I take his hand
in mine noting how large it is, with the thick black skin on his palm,
and the short white fur on the back. He is careful not to nick me with
his finger claws.)<br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius </u></span>
Thank you. I must meet Commander Geupetus and get my ride home. I never
thought I’d be on good terms with the Ship Commander and his Clan. I
once hated them all so much. Thank you for speaking with me, and I, too,
hope all people will enjoy my tale.<br /><br /><br /><u><span style="color: #38761d;">Me:</span></u> As do I. Safe flight home. <br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><u>Kutius: </u></span>
We shall meet again I am sure. (He smiles and winks one eye, before
trotting out of the room with his beautiful Felakoon. I watch, seething
with more questions than answers, and know they wait between the pages
of this book!) </span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></span></span></i></h1>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">fter the Giveaway,</span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span>Winners , if you enjoyed it, share the love<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> a<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">t the links below!</span></span></span></span></i></span></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><a href="http://www.lulu.com/shop/marie-j-s-phillips/the-furlites-of-aroriel-curse-of-koris/hardcover/product-21735418.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.lulu.com/shop/marie-j-s-phillips/the-furlites-of-aroriel-curse-of-koris/hardcover/product-21735418.html </span></a></span></span></span></i></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="color: blue;">http://askdavid.com/reviews/book/science-fiction/11462 </span> </span></span></span></i></h1>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">
</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As always, if you're intrigued by my work, visit my author page</span> at</span></span></i> <span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Marie-J-S-Phillips/e/B006GSBNAG" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">amazon.com/author/mariejsphillips</span> </span></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></h1>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #38761d;">and my website for chapter samples and excerpts!</span> </i></span></span> </h1>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/" target="_blank"><u><i>Furlitian Tales and Other Stories</i></u></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></h1>
Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-31211990021205997632014-05-27T13:26:00.004-04:002014-06-17T11:33:38.810-04:002014 SUMMER SPLASH BLOG HOP!<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">Greetings to all!</span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #674ea7;"> <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>2014 </b></span></span><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Indie Writers Un<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ite Blog hop!</span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Blog is Over!</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Thanks so much for entering!!</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The winner of <i>OLD GENT</i> signed hardcover is Sarah Smiles!</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>The next few folks won Kindle versions! Please send me the email you wish your Kindle copy to go to!</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>My email is <span style="color: blue;">RIAP57@aol.com</span> </b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Nancy Wolfe</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Bobbi Kinion</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Jessica June</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Ellie Lane</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Sherry Malone</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Lourie Staib </b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Suzanne <span style="color: purple;">(</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: purple;">suzyrph)</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple;">Elisa Difino</span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple;">Jeffrey Belanger </span></span></span><span style="color: purple;"> </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> I will try and contact you via the emails you provided. If you do not hear please write me!</b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span></span><u> </u></span></span></span></b></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #cc0000; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 25.200000762939453px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">GRAND PRIZES #1 and #2: Kindle Paperwhite and a $50 Amazon Gift Card</b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><u> </u></span></span></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://summersplashhop.blogspot.com/"><img alt="http://summersplashhop.blogspot.com/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZkZD1QM-mRqdO3XPphiLWDqPUrdkJ9rKzFb_M8auvcdIMQ1NZM-yCQMX8NbvMDXW_fVgkuA4-cwgeeqPESjUeGBn4wnovIzBb8kpHHoe3lR-WYnA0nyNeE4Kfb3-CVSV5DDZ_zF29X4/s1600/SummerSplashHop2014.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"> http://summersplashhop.blogspot.com/</span></span></span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"> Here on my Blog:</span></span></span></b></div>
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">If you love TREES, this prize is for you! Win Kindle copy of the <u><i>OLD GENT</i></u>! <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I will be giving away several copies. </span></span></span></span><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Big Prize is a hard-cover full-color copy signed by me! </span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To enter my giveaway<span style="color: darkmagenta;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, </span></span></span>j</span></span>ust comment on this Blog and leave your contact email, and any other tidbit you'd like me to know. Below find a blurb about <i>OLD GENT,</i> the semi-fictional biography of the tree on the cover, from the tree's point of view! </span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/OLD-GENT-Marie-J-Phillips-ebook/dp/B00EYLHGBW/"><img alt="http://www.amazon.com/OLD-GENT-Marie-J-Phillips-ebook/dp/B00EYLHGBW/" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5fbgFX3HpRVbraTDfoV2IJx40jhSCjhLFzct3NFZowfXeL0tBy4mqpDckaxwgd-1JriR3RxTC_HUn6XHGb4t8RSlApA8T9iverIZMnB3haDDGmtyzx8qAeLQwOswVc9e0Ne37OeYb6Vk/s1600/OldGentCover.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></b><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="wz-bold"><span class="wz-bold">Sprouting
in an old abandoned field around 1895, Old Gent, a Norway Spruce, grew
into a majestic towering specimen of his species, protective of the old
home he saw built on his lands as a stout sapling. Human activity
amused, startled, frightened and sometimes hurt him, thus he never found
trust in the beaverlike species, until the fifth owner in nine decades
moved into the old house he sheltered. The woman and her spouse proved
reverent, changing his attitudes towards humans. The old tree
experienced a new emotions, and gained the name of Old Gent. </span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="wz-bold"><span class="wz-bold"> When terror
from the skies threatened the lands, he stood strong, determined to
shield the home and owners he now loved, and paid a price. As decades
weakened his ancient body with internal decay from injuries, he fought
to regrow lost limbs, racing to once again tower into the skies. He
spiraled a few seeds against the foundation of the old house, where his
offspring sprouted. On his fateful felling day, one stood poised to
continue his sire's legacy.</span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">Check out summ<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ary and sample chapters at :</span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><i><u></u></i></span></span></span><a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/old-gent">http://www.mariejsphillips.com/old-gent </a></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Dates of the Summer Splash Blog Hop: June 13-16, 2014</span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Don't forget to leave comments and contact email! Good Luck! </span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;">NOTE<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-</span></span>SPAMMERES will be ignored, deleted, and bl<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ocked.</span></span></span> </span></span></span></b>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-86345610362001532562014-05-27T13:26:00.002-04:002014-05-29T15:20:38.048-04:00Guest Post from Grammarly<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Please welcome a guest post by Grammarly. </b></span></span><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.grammarly.com/" target="_blank">http://www.grammarly.com/</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>I hope you will find it helpful!</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Professional Blogging</b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>by </b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Nikolas Baron</b></span></span><br /><br />Writing a blog is relatively easy. Anyone with a keyboard, reliable access to the internet, and some spare time can start a blog, as evidenced by the tens of thousands of blogs originated online each week. Getting paid for one’s writing, however, may prove a bit more challenging. Anyone can blog, but not everyone makes a profit from their blogging efforts. Learning to write a coherent sentence and running prose through the plagiarism checker before posting a piece are only two aspects of running a successful for-profit, or “monetized” blog. Blogging is hard work, and turning a passion for writing about a particular topic into a paycheck takes dedication and patience.<br /><br />The first step in creating a monetized blog is obvious, but often overlooked: Develop a talent for writing well. Study grammar and spelling. Learn to construct a sentence, and how to articulate thoughts in a coherent manner. Develop a personal “voice”. Professional writing, like any endeavor, requires a certain level of skill, which takes weeks, months, or even years to develop. One doesn’t simply decide one day to become a racecar driver. Practice is necessary, as well as some rites of passage into the sport. The aspiring driver accepts the need to enter a few minor races before he or she expects to run the oval in a NASCAR event. The aspiring blogger needs to gain experience and confidence by paying dues as a writer before stepping into the professional arena.<br /><br />Writing for other blogs, also known as writing “guest posts”, is a good place to begin a blogging career. By creating content for other, established bloggers, the writer gains experience and confidence, and begins to develop a unique voice. The experience also provides opportunities to “try out” different niches, and to discover underlying passions, as well as offering opportunities for exposure to potential future followers. In the beginning, it’s best to write for smaller, lesser-known blogs. With practice comes more confidence and skill. Larger and better-known blogs may offer payment for guest posts, but the exposure is more important in the early stages than payment.<br /><br />Starting a personal blog, centering on a particular interest or passion, is the next step. The topic should be close to the writer’s heart, so that motivation is strong to post new content regularly. The tighter the focus, the more successful the blog is likely to become. Niche topics may include personal finance, various aspects of parenting, gender-specific issues, religious or spiritual topics, or hobbies like raising chickens or building model cars. The list of possible topics is endless, and limited only by the author’s imagination and interests.<br /><br />A blog can’t make a profit without readers. Social networking may be used to advertise a blog and attract readers. Buttons called “widgets” can be added to most blog platforms to allow readers to “follow” a blog and receive notifications of updates in their e-mail box. Widgets can also be used to add “sharing” buttons to the blog to maximize exposure through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. The social media platforms used depend on the audience, tone, and focus of the blog. LinkedIn is the domain of upwardly-mobile professionals of all ages, while younger people tend to gravitate to Pinterest. </b></span><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">Facebook attracts people of all walks of life from the professional to the stay at home Mom.</span></span></b> </span><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><br />Networking within the blogging community is also important, and must be done professionally to be effective. A writer should never “spam” a blog with banal comments posted for the sole purpose of linking back to the commenter’s own blog. Comments on other blogs should contribute to the conversation, and backlinks should only be included if the link is to a relevant post. Care must be taken to project a professional, courteous online presence at all times.<br /><br />Once a presence is established, the monetization process can begin. Monetization can be both direct and indirect. Indirect monetization includes advertising space sold on the blog platform itself, pay-per-click link and product placement, and affiliate advertising. Direct monetization might mean offering a subscription service or e-book sales. Direct monetization works best for narrowly focused blogs written by an established professional in a particular field. With so much content readily available for free on the ‘web, a subscription must provide the reader with something unique that isn’t available elsewhere.<br /><br /><br />By Nikolas Baron<br />------------------------------------------------------//------------------------------------------------------------- <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/109993203182988419388/posts"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>https://plus.google.com/u/0/109993203182988419388/posts</b></span></span></a></b></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b> </b></span></span>Bio:<br />Nikolas discovered his love for the written word in Elementary School, where he started spending his afternoons sprawled across the living room floor devouring one Marc Brown children's’ novel after the other and writing short stories about daring pirate adventures. After acquiring some experience in various marketing, business development, and hiring roles at internet startups in a few different countries, he decided to re-unite his professional life with his childhood passions by joining Grammarly’s marketing team in San Francisco. He has the pleasure of being tasked with talking to writers, bloggers, teachers, and others about how they use Grammarly’s online proofreading application to improve their writing. His free time is spent biking, traveling, and reading.</b></span></span>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-45475123511346952142014-01-30T11:21:00.000-05:002014-01-30T11:24:51.778-05:00AVAILABLE NOW OLD GENT!!<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>NOW AVAILABLE!</b><u><i><b> OLD GENT </b></i></u></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">Read Old Gent's story from the old tree's, and his offspring, Young Gent's, points of view! </span></b><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Sprouting in an old abandoned
field around 1895, Old Gent, a Norway Spruce, grew into a majestic
towering specimen of his species, protective of the old home he saw
built on his lands as a stout sapling. Human activity amused, startled,
frightened and sometimes hurt him, thus he never found trust in the
beaverlike species, until the fifth owner in nine decades moved into the
old house he sheltered. The woman and her spouse proved reverent,
changing his attitudes towards humans. The old tree experienced new
emotions, and gained the name of Old Gent. When terror from the skies
threatened the lands, he stood strong, determined to shield the home and
owners he now loved, and paid a price. As decades weakened his ancient
body with internal decay from injuries, he fought to regrow lost limbs,
racing to once again tower into the skies. He spiraled a few seeds
against the foundation of the old house, where his offspring sprouted.
On his fateful felling day,one stood poised to continue his sire's
legacy.</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>The paperback edition is Illustrated with full color photos!</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSefcKKB2KoKUrNgjf_GH3Wf0qp-j9VUQFCrJvSvrXf57MGd-z-gdWvzArgLL2nz0xPbSmJFttSKu2wyLmsdEDOnuCEVqV7AeVNFSrQNkV50FLEH56H2KAeNoDy-h67IqAc3mo-uCEV8/s1600/OldGentCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSefcKKB2KoKUrNgjf_GH3Wf0qp-j9VUQFCrJvSvrXf57MGd-z-gdWvzArgLL2nz0xPbSmJFttSKu2wyLmsdEDOnuCEVqV7AeVNFSrQNkV50FLEH56H2KAeNoDy-h67IqAc3mo-uCEV8/s1600/OldGentCover.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b> </b></span> <br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Both paperback and Kindle edition available at:</b></span><br />
<b>http://www.amazon.com/Old-Gent-Marie-J-Phillips/dp/1304083071/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1391097908&sr=8-1</b><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Special hardcover full color edition available at: </b></span><br />
<b>http://www.lulu.com/shop/marie-j-s-phillips/old-gent/hardcover/product-21157087.html</b>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-16140478694174750282013-07-06T15:58:00.002-04:002013-07-30T15:14:39.048-04:00Summer Splash Blog Hop 2013<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">Greetings to all!</span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">Thanks so much for <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">entering!</span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wish I could have given everyone<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a</span></span> set!!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you wish to purchase the books please visit my Amazon page where all except <i><u>OLD GENT</u></i> are available in various formats! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">amazon.com/author/mariejsphillips</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the lucky winners I had one hardcover set, two paperback sets and decided to draw for multiple Kindle editions!! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I contacted the winners <span style="color: darkmagenta;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">privately</span></span></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">!</span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stay tuned for the next Indie Writers Un<span style="color: darkmagenta;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ite Blog hop!</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span><u> </u></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><u>SUMMER SPLASH BLOG HOP!! </u></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">July 26-July 29</span></span></span></b><br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://splashhop.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9w1fxw-zNc3thmaVYIPBNwmv7sJe2UFgCpH-YCf6QKLwBK7WYaVcO1KJEHhC4dcmnTjvRZi7gtHzk931mXZLoVt7TTF_QwpJ7FrapxcvZroh-dP9czP4ebh4jg3s-oCDCLIIfywmnws0/s320/splashlogo.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">Win a signed copy of the <i><u>FURLITES OF ARORIEL: Book Il - E<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ar</span></span>th-bred, Matissia-born</u></i>! Also included a signed copy of B<i><u>ook I-On Matissia Wings<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></span></u></i><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">thus you win the two book set!! Paperback and kindle editions available! </span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">BONUS! I found a hardcover set!! Some lucky winner will <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">receive</span></span> these, signed, as well!! </span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To enter my giveaway<span style="color: darkmagenta;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, </span></span></span>j</span></span>ust comment on this Blog and leave your contact email, preferred format, and any other tidbit you'd like me to know.</span></span></span><i><u><br /></u></i></span></span></span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"> In Book I<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I</span></span> - Meet the <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">charismatic</span></span> Felakoons. genetically altered felines of Maine Coon cat ancestry who bond to a <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">F</span></span>urlite of their own choosing! </span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"> In Book I-learn how the Furlitian Clan Darius ends up on our world<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, meets humanity and <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">inadvertently</span></span> takes abo<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ard their starship,</span></span> a little <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">stowa<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">way</span></span></span></span>, <span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">who bequeaths to Furlitie<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">kind a</span></span></span></span> gift more precious than all the gems in the Universe.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(Note-some sexual content) </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><i><u><br /></u></i></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">Check out summ<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ary and sample chapters at </span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/earth-bred-matissia-born">http://www.mariejsphillips.com/earth-bred-matissia-born</a><br /><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><i><u> </u></i></span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><i><u>Available in paper<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">back or for your Kindle!!</span></span> </u></i></span></span></span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168">Dates of the Summer Splash Blog Hop: July 26-July 29</span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: darkmagenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_35_1373079010504_54"><span id="yiv0039324293yui_3_7_2_1_1373079010504_4168"><span style="color: #a64d79;">NOTE<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-</span></span>SPAMMERES will be ignored, deleted, and bl<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ocked.</span></span></span> </span></span></span></b>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-60081896055173219962013-04-11T10:17:00.004-04:002013-04-23T10:02:32.164-04:00Interview for April Isn't Only For Fools Giveaway! <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">April Isn't Only For Fools Giveaway! </span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"> Check out </span></b></span></span><a class="twitter-timeline-link" data-expanded-url="http://mariejsphillips.blogspot.com" dir="ltr" href="http://t.co/gwuamuswge" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="http://mariejsphillips.blogspot.com"><span class="js-display-url"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>http://grineldamarkowitz.wordpress.com/2013/04/11/guest-author-marie-j-s-phillips-april-11-2013/</b></span></span></span></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><br /></span></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="background-color: white;">(</span></span><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="background-color: white;"> Science Fiction alien family saga with Romantic Elements)</span></span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">The Prize; </span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: small;">Signed p</span>aperback copies of Books I & II of <i><u>The Furlites of Aroriel. On Matissia
Wings and Earth-bred, Matissia-born.</u></i></span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><i><u>Giveaway is o<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">ver!!</span></span> </u></i></span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">(Note-spammers will be reported, deleted and NOT entered!! I also will NOT respond to your "business" links<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">.<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-14877623847775068562013-04-08T09:54:00.002-04:002013-04-11T10:16:20.309-04:00APRIL ISN'T ONLY FOR FOOLS GIVEAWAY!<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">April Isn't Only For Fools Giveaway! </span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"> Check out </span></b></span></span><a class="twitter-timeline-link" data-expanded-url="http://mariejsphillips.blogspot.com" dir="ltr" href="http://t.co/gwuamuswge" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="http://mariejsphillips.blogspot.com"><span class="js-display-url"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>http://grineldamarkowitz.wordpress.com/2013/04/11/guest-author-marie-j-s-phillips-april-11-2013/</b></span></span></span></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><br /></span></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">My interview is <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">today</span></span>! <span style="background-color: white;">(</span></span><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="background-color: white;"> Science Fiction alien family saga with Romantic Elements)</span></span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">The Prize; </span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: small;">Signed p</span>aperback copies of Books I & II of <i><u>The Furlites of Aroriel. On Matissia
Wings and Earth-bred, Matissia-born.</u></i></span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">All
you need to do is comment on this Blog after reading my interview with
Grinnie, and please include your email so I can contact you if you win!</span></span></b></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">(Note-spammers will be reported, deleted and NOT entered!! I also will NOT respond to your "business" links<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">.<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span></span>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-73618223227724601112013-02-20T13:19:00.002-05:002013-04-07T11:17:28.859-04:00April Isn't Only For Fools GIVEAWAY<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">My interview is April 11! <span style="background-color: white;">(</span></span><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="background-color: white;"> Science Fiction alien family saga with Romantic Elements)</span></span></b></span></span><br />
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<![endif]--><span style="font-size: small;">Signed p</span>aperback copies of Books I & II of <i><u>The Furlites of Aroriel. On Matissia
Wings and Earth-bred, Matissia-born.</u></i></span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">All you need to do is comment on this Blog after reading my interview with Grinnie, and please include your email so I can contact you if you win!</span></span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><i><u> </u></i></span></b></b></span></span></span>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-56918836466640743092013-02-04T14:15:00.002-05:002013-02-04T14:17:15.793-05:00Blogoversary Interview: Marie J S Phillips <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>This was fun! Check it out. </b></span><br />
<a href="http://freebookreviews.blogspot.com/2013/02/blogoversary-interview-marie-j-s.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+FreeBookReviews+%28Free+Book+Reviews%29">http://freebookreviews.blogspot.com/2013/02/blogoversary-interview-marie-j-s.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+FreeBookReviews+%28Free+Book+Reviews%29</a><br />
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<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Thank you, Albert!</span></b>Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-73308724099883069472013-01-08T13:09:00.001-05:002013-01-28T14:26:12.712-05:00 New Years Blog Hop-update<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2996002082436507300" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://nyhop.blogspot.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Greetings!!!</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #674ea7;"> </span><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">The New Year's Hop, which began on Friday January 11, 2013 is now over!</span></b> </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">I gave away a Kindle <u><i>KHAN: A MAINE COON</i></u>, and a printed, signed version the </span></b><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">paperback. and a Kindle version of the short story collection, <i><u>The White Dragons of Suvwilur & Other Stories!</u></i>
The paperback version shows all illustrations in full glorious color, and so far, the winner has not stepped forward to claim the prize!</span></b><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Winners have been ann</b></span><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">n</span></b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>ounced!</b></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>Khan:A Maine Coon Paperback-Ellen Thompson (sent)<br />Khan:A Maine Coon Kindle-Jessica Crawford (Sent)<br />The White Dragons & Other Stories Kindle - Ash (sent)<br />The White Dragons & Other Stories Color signed PP - Karen Couch (Karen-Waiting for response! Please contact me or I'll have to award the prize to another)<br />For
the paperbacks-please email me with your snail mail! <br />Send email to: RIAP27@aol.com </b></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><b> If interested in my books check them out below.</b></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;"> </span></b>For sample chapters of <u><i>Khan: A Maine Coon</i></u>, or from my other books, and for other information on my short story collection, check my
website<a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/"> http://www.mariejsphillips.com/</a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #674ea7;"> </span></b><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Click below images to go to their pages on my website for more information!</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.mariejsphillips.com/on-matissia-wings"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI67HNNHCZ60E-Vx6pOK1nPgA8Jh8TDw8xgdf-c9fPFpOJT3I8wGeaGx2rc-o7c-BIEVkSZ-EKRshNab1PkcaRF3KRoanolYsROVpZbY98PFxAAeriLznR9hvUIEqNL-3MM1svkzYaZ8M/s320/CovBook1.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2996002082436507300.post-58811765798869712232012-08-01T13:49:00.000-04:002013-01-12T14:02:13.920-05:00Post Hop<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Greetings everyone! </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">Thanks for entering my Giveaway and congrats to the winners! I hope you enjoy Khan: A Maine Coon! If you do please return to post something about it!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #674ea7;">I am a HUGE greenhorn when it comes to blogging so I'd appreciate any advice or comments!</span></b><br />
<b style="color: #674ea7;">Check out my website to read sample chapters of all my books that are currently in print! </b><b style="color: #674ea7;">If you have read them feel free to comment on them here. </b><b style="background-color: white; color: #674ea7;">If you are looking for Indie Author books do check out the Independent Author Network! </b><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br />
<b>http://www.independentauthornetwork.com</b><br />
<br />Marie J S Phillipshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10335495670734041908noreply@blogger.com0