F.A.I.R.I.E.S.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: The Series

2020-10-07T00:56:00.000-04:00

Here lies a most precious treasure,
Awaiting one Chosen to
deliver.

Seek out the red cousins in the East,
For on this your
greed mustn’t feast.

The wealth of a species now is in your hands,
Do with it as the light demands.

Give them your gift to unite,
For it is the darkness we all must fight.

Unwittingly chosen to join an army of fairies, who fight for the light of the One, a teenaged girl learns how to fight the dark ones as she attends a military academy with fantastical beings.

#37 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2012-01-27T14:19:00.002-05:00

This is what Rachelle Sperling of Sojourner's Journey had to say about F.A.I.R.I.E.S.:

Geared primarily for children and pre-teens, F.A.I.R.E.S. (Fantastical, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squads) is the story of Mellie (12 going on 13) and her adventure of being chosen and choosing to serve the One.

While I love fantasy and read a fair amount of children's and young adult fiction, I had a difficult time getting into this book. In order to show the growth of her character Mellie, the author starts with a self-centered, whiny young girl. Maybe Pearson did a bit too thorough a job in showing Mellie's unflattering side, because I just couldn't find anything about Mellie's character to connect with until well into the story. Mellie's character development reminded me a bit of both Edmund and Eustace from C.S. Lewis' Narnia, but when Mellie was introduced there were no other (more noble) characters to help me stay connected to the story.

Still, I'm glad that I kept reading. About a quarter of the way into the book Mellie's character started to take on a more rounded personality and I enjoyed the development of the relationships within her squad of fantastical being friends. Though I must admit that it seemed odd how Mellie went from being a self-centered twelve year old to acting like a mature sixteen or seventeen year old in the span of four months, the changes in Mellie moved the story along in a way that helped me connect to the lessons she was learning.

Despite the fact that it took some time for me to feel involved in the storyline, Mimi's imagination knows no bounds. As I read I became immersed in a world of strange and fascinating creatures exploring the riddles of dragons and the representation of the One.

Once I settled in to the story I enjoyed it and I look forward to seeing more from Mimi Pearson and her tales of the realm. Her grand imagination will no doubt continue to spark the interest of her target audience as she weaves tales of light, darkness and the One who is above it all.
Thanks to the author for sending me a digital copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Giveaway Contest!

2012-01-18T00:58:00.001-05:00

My friend, Melanie, is having a F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Giveaway Contest! Go HERE to see my interview and enter the contest. There are several ways to enter, so remember to press 'I did it' after the things you do. Also, you may enter each day in different ways. I am not in charge of this contest, but I will let you know who wins!

Open for 20 more days!

Here is how this giveaway works. If you win and live in the US or Canada, you will receive a print copy; but if you live anywhere else, you will receive a Kindle copy. In your comment, please mention what country you live in. Open Internationally!

#36 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2012-01-18T00:51:00.001-05:00

This is what MJ Chind had to say on her blog, Creative Madness:

It was a few years ago when I first started to read Mimi’s book and I was captivated. I was reading unedited versions and sending in opinions. I absolutely love starting with the foretelling of Gnome Dig Deep (see below) and the whit and whimsy of all the characters was soon to follow. At that time I have to admit that I did not finish reading, because it was before I had an ereader and then having a baby I was not able to sit at the computer to read much. Now that the real book is finally here, I’m so excited again!!

*Thanks to Mimi for providing a copy for review

#35 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2012-01-12T00:49:00.001-05:00

Here's what Lesley has to say about F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire on her blog, Dragonflies 'n Daydreams.

My thoughts:

What an interesting book! This story is full of imagination and tells a wonderful story. You'll find yourself smiling and feeling intrigued by the characters and fictitious land. Full of fantasy you will enjoy every moment of the fight against good and evil. With illustrations that capture your eye you will want to share this book with your young friends.

Readers Favorite Book Reviews

2012-01-05T16:11:00.001-05:00

Just received a 5 star review on Readers Favorite Book Reviews! I plan on entering their 2012 Book Award Contest.

Reviewed by Linda W. for Readers Favorite

This is a fantasy tale of good versus evil through the eyes of a young teenage girl, Mellie. Running from her sisters’ taunts, she finds herself caught up in the world of the F.A.I.R.I.E.S, where she will learn the world of spiritual warfare against the I.M.P.S. as she attends the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. academy and learns of the One–the light who always overcomes the darkness.

The unbelievable characters become a part of your life, as you learn of their ways. The military academy is tough, yet most of the classes are enjoyable and instructive. Plenty of humor is there, though some is lost in interpretation! I enjoyed the characters of Mellie, Spike, Lizzy, GroBe, and many others. They are rich, descriptive and eccentric. They are truly fantastical beings! What a super delightful book with deep spiritual meaning. The spiritual aspect is what makes the book so great, as it pertains to each of the characters and to us as well. I loved it. Your kids will, too!

This would make one extra-special birthday, Christmas, or any special occasion gift for some young girl or boy! Your child(ren) will learn truths that are pertinent to their lives. Pick one up today! Superb, intricate writing. Christian fantasy at its best! I am rating this a 5 out of 5!

I’m so excited as I never used to like books like this, let alone loving this one! This should become a classic for years to come!

How I Made my Cover for F.A.I.R.I.E.S.

2011-12-14T02:31:00.000-05:00

I thought you might be interested in how I did the cover for my book, F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire. I'll show you the before and after pics that I used.

A long time ago, my mother gave me a bunch of her ball gowns. I've taken several pictures of friends and family in these gowns. Here's are two pictures of my mother in the gown in the 1950's:

This is the main picture of the heroine, Mellie Good Wind...posing is Lily Kidd:

I played with it...extended the sword and part of the dress. Eventually, I removed her feet. It just looked better that way. Although, I really debated about keeping them on the cover, since Mellie was barefoot in the beginning of the story. However, when she wore the red dress, she wasn't barefoot. So, I lopped them off. Sorry, Lily! You do have cute feet!

Next is a picture of me painted up as Lilith:

Then, I played with it in Photoshop:

And inverted the exposure and played with it some more:

To create the wing-like effect behind Mellie, I again played with it in Photoshop:

If you are very diligent, you might see the eyes of I.M.P.S. (redcaps) in the fire on the back cover. There are nine pairs of them! They are all of my son, Keegan's eyes. Here are some of the pictures from the photo shoot:

I then tweaked them in Photoshop:

Here's a zoom-in of the eye section on the book cover:

I also created the fire on top of the font for F.A.I.R.I.E.S. and the cloudy fire background for Baptism by Fire all in Photoshop.

The result is this cover:

#34 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-12T02:49:00.002-05:00

Here's what Angela has to say on her blog, All Grown Up?:

I turned this one over to the boys,

Youngest *13* said: "Hey, it’s pretty good, and you know this lady? WOW!” He was impressed that I know the author!

Son4′s *15* reaction was “I like it, think she’ll write more?”

And Son3′s *17* reply “A little young for me, but it was still pretty good! I’d read more by her if you have it!”

So there we go, 3 out of 3 stars!

*Ages* added from Angela's family page

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire on KINDLE for $3.99

2011-12-10T01:34:00.001-05:00

The Kindle version is now fixed! The price is lower: $3.99. Click on image to order.

The Ebook is only available on Kindle for now. In 90 days, I'll look into other places to sell it, but Kindle is having a special deal with it's Prime Members:

For Kindle Device Owners

Borrow this book for free, with no due dates, if you are a Kindle owner and Prime member. If you don't own a Kindle, get yours today. If you're not a Prime member, start your one month free trial today. You can borrow this book from your Kindle device.

With Prime, Kindle owners can choose from thousands of books to borrow for free — including over 100 current and former New York Times Bestsellers — as frequently as a book a month, with no due dates. Learn more about Kindle Owners' Lending Library.

Formats for FAIRIES:

Kindle Edition $3.99
Paperback $17.99

It is also for sale in Paperback at Barnes&Noble.com. It is currently at $11.53, but it will soon change back to $17.99. Right now they are saying that they will deliver it by Christmas.

#33 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-08T12:24:00.001-05:00

Here's what Lindsey has to say on her blog, Kindred Spirit Mommy:

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism By Fire is a new faith-based novel for kids and young teens that is sure to be loved by many. I was especially excited when I first heard about it because it’s one of the few fantasy adventures in the Christian fiction genre. We need more like this!
Here’s a short description:

Unwittingly chosen to join an army of fairies, who fight for the Light of the One, a teenaged girl learns about spiritual warfare as she attends a military academy with fantastical beings.
If you enjoy meaningful books with deep characters, fantastical creatures, imaginative made-up worlds, and exciting adventures, you’ll enjoy F.A.I.R.I.E.S. It reminds me in a way of books like The Chronicles of Narnia or A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle. It’s a really enjoyable read, and you get caught up in the characters’ lives quickly.

I did struggle a bit in the beginning to get into the book but once I was a few chapters in I just had to know what happened to Mellie. I found her inner conflicts to be very true-to-life for a girl in her early teens, and I think that young girls who read her story will relate well.

Another thing that makes this book unique and special is the author’s own illustrations throughout the book. There are so many! It really adds interest, and was fun to see how the author saw certain scenes and characters. I loved it!
If you have a young daughter or family member, definitely consider this for them. The story has a lot of depth and heart to it that you won’t find in most young adult fantasy fiction. I recommend it!

You can find it on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle edition, and at Barnes&Noble.com.

#32 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-08T11:50:00.000-05:00

Here's what Anne Payne has to say on her blog, Stuff & Nonsense II:

My Thoughts

Several times I have tried to read a book in the Fantasy/Speculative Fiction genre and cannot do it. My brain just doesn’t conjure up what the characters and creatures look like. For that reason alone I was glad that the illustrations in the book were there and they are “fantastical” in and of themselves! You get two treasures in one: The boundless imagination of the author and her incredible illustrations. It’s amazing! And to weave the spiritual thread in the way she did. AWE.SOME.

This is definitely a book that young and old speculative fiction fans will enjoy.

#31 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-08T01:03:00.000-05:00

Here's what Laura O had to say on her blog, Day by Day in Our World:

My Thoughts ~

I have really enjoyed reading this title and plan to pass it along to my older boys to read. Our family adores fantasy books like this one and I suspect the boys will agree with my assessment of it being a good read. There is a wide variety of fantastical creatures with several characters I enjoyed.

I have to add that I really enjoyed the artistic touch that Ms. Pearson supplied with her own illustrations of scenes in the novel. My only regret was trying to view them on my Nook and not a bigger screen.

#30 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-07T23:51:00.000-05:00

Here's what Molly had to say on her blog, Reviews by Molly:

My Review:

With tons of sickness going around my house lately, I didn't get a lot of the books read that I wanted to read. But I did take the time to read this amazing book by Ms. Pearson. She is absolutely AWESOME in her work!

To be honest in my review, I will tell you that this sort of book is not my first choice of reading material. It's young readers that tend to read this kind. Me, not so much. But, I want to give every author a chance and sometimes, like with this one, I will find one that blows me away to the point of making me a fan.

In F.A.I.R.I.E.S., Ms. Pearson does a wonderful job at illustrating as well as the creation of the story. Ms. Pearson takes a classic bad battles good plot line, throws in a mix of fantastical characters, and turns out a story that will capture hearts young and old alike. Mellie Goodwin is one of those such characters and she truly pulled me to the heart of the book. I could feel the adventure and twists that Ms. Pearson through Mellie as if I was the character.

Ms. Pearson definitely created a 4 Book worthy story in my opinion. Her characters are gripping, her story line is one that is both entertaining to read and lesson learning, with good vs. evil, right vs. wrong. An inspiring story for young readers, this would make a wonderful, fantastical gift for your young book lover! As I said before, while this is one that I wouldn't normally read, Ms. Pearson did make a fan of me with her amazing talent for being an author AND an illustrator, and I am looking forward to her next book!

Interview Link

2011-12-07T03:48:00.000-05:00

Here's a link to an interview that I did for Writer Interrupted with Gina Conroy:

Author and Homeschool Mom MC Pearson Shares Her Story

#29 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-07T02:51:00.002-05:00

Here is what one of my favorite authors, MaryLu Tyndall, has to say on her blog, Cross and Cutlass:

MaryLu Here: I recently had the pleasure of reading this book. I'm not quite finished yet, but I wanted to write a short review: F.A.I.R.I.E.S. is unlike any book I've ever read. Immediately I was swept away into a fantastical world through the eyes of a young girl. I'm amazed at Ms. Pearson's extravagant imagination! The creatures and world she describes are beyond anything my mind could conceive. This book has everything anyone could want: battles between good and evil, adventure, humor, romance, an interesting plot and characters you will love. What also impressed me are the wonderful hand-drawn illustrations by the author herself scattered throughout the story! She can not only write, but draw as well! I highly recommend this books for young and old lovers of fantasy.

CONTEST! Win a FREE copy of F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire by M. C. Pearson

2011-12-07T00:32:00.002-05:00

For those of you who would like a chance to get your hands on my book for FREE , there is a contest for a hard copy on Megan's blog, Hardcover Feedback. Here's the link to the contest:

http://hardcoverfeedback.blogspot.com/2011/12/interview-with-mc-pearson-and-fairies.html

* It is open to everyone, but those outside the US will have to have an ebook copy. Those inside the US will have the choice of an ebook or a signed hard copy.

Only one winner...lots of ways to get your name in the raffle.

Blessings,

Mimi

#28 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T15:42:00.001-05:00

Here's what Megan DiMaria had to say on her blog, A Prisoner of Hope:

I don't often read fantasy, and this book was a welcome surprise. An imaginative and adventurous page turner, I loved the illustrations sprinkled throughout. Thumbs up!

#27 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T15:33:00.000-05:00

Here's what Danica had to say in her blog, The Journey of Writer Danica Favorite:

MY REVIEW:

Very much an enjoyable read. I keep thinking that this is a great story my 11yo and her friends would love, but that means I have to give up my death grip on my e-reader. :) I had a hard time getting into the story at first, but as I continued reading, I realized that this book reminds me a lot of Madeleine L'Engle's work, and I loved that level of fantasy as a child. I'm excited to pass on this book to my children, and I might even have to let them use my precious e-reader. This is definitely an appealing storyline for any parent who is looking for something wholesome to read in an age when there are a lot of questionable fantasy novels out there.

#26 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T15:16:00.000-05:00

Here's what Maureen had to say on her blog, Maureen's Musings:

My Review: What an imaginative book....you will Love what comes to mind. The beverages of kokokola...lemon lime??

Meet the Faries and the vast underground network....wow! Learning to fight the Evil One. You will enjoy the dialogue and sometime bickering that goes on.

The book opens with Mellie having quite a time feeling sorry for herself and proceeding to leave her family. She goes down the beach so far she doesn't recognize the place, she sees some branches moving, and her adventure is about to begin. She meets a "Walking Stick" named Regans, a member of The Fantastical, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squads....F.A.I.R.I.E.S!
He tells Mellie that she is the "Chosen One" and had been accepted into their Organization.

She is about to go to School....one she never dreamed of attending!

You wonder if Mellie will ever see her family again, but all is answered.

M. C. has down a wonderful job with this book, it is so very entertaining! Really makes you think. Enjoy!!

#25 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T15:09:00.001-05:00

Here's what Linda had to say on her blog, One Desert Rose:

This is a fantasy tale of good versus evil through the eyes of a young teenage girl, Mellie. Running from her sisters’ taunts, she finds herself caught up in the world of the F.A.I.R.I.E.S, where she will learn the world of spiritual warfare against the I.M.P.S. as she attends the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. academy and learns of the One–the light who always overcomes the darkness.

The unbelievable characters become a part of your life, as you learn of their ways. The military academy is tough, yet most of the classes are enjoyable and instructive. Plenty of humor abounds, though some is lost in interpretation! I enjoyed the characters of Mellie, Spike, Lizzy, GroBe, and many, many others. They are rich, descriptive and eccentric. They are truly fantastical beings! What a super delightful book with deep spiritual meaning. I loved it. Your kids will, too!

This would make one extra-special Christmas gift for some young girl or boy! Pick one up today! Superb, intricate writing. Christian fantasy at it’s best! I’m rating this a 5 out of 5!

I’m so excited, as I never used to like books like this, let alone loving this one! This should become a classic for years to come!

#24 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T14:53:00.000-05:00

Here's what Chin chin has to say on her blog, Inspirational Life Quotes:

I like fantasy stories. But more than reading, I love to watch movies with this genre. I have watched The Wizard of Oz, Alice in Wonderland, The Never Ending Story, Narnia, Bridge to Terabitha... How I wish that someday this book "F.A.I.R.I.E.S." by M.C. Pearson would find its way to the movie screen, too. The book is very long (482 pages) and, honestly, I haven't had the time yet to finish reading the whole book. But just reading some of the chapters gives the feeling of excitement on every turn of the page. This is something really perfect for those young and young-at-heart who like fantasy and adventure stories. Check out the free look inside chapter 1 of the book at the end of this post.

#23 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T14:10:00.002-05:00

Here's what Andi has to say on her blog, Radiant Light:

My Thoughts:

I received an electronic version of Mimi's book, and I was blown away by the cover on the book. It was super clear on my Kindle and I couldn't wait to read it. The book was a great adventure, and I fell in love with Mellie. Mimi is quite a talented writer and artist. Fantasy fiction is not one of my huge favorite genre's yet I found myself taken away to another world and I really didn't want to leave. This would be a great gift for your fantasy fan!

#22 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T03:46:00.000-05:00

Here's what Loren has to say on her blog, FROM THE ♥ OF A BOOKWORM:

You know those times when you were younger and you would be sooo upset with someone in your family? Maybe you might even wish to be in a different family altogether? Well, that is just what happened to Mellie. She was feeling sorry for herself as she walked down to the beach to get away from her older sisters. She is wishing for a new life, an important life, and one that really mattered! As Mellie continued on her walk, she realized she no longer recognized the area where she was walking and then she meets "walking stick" or you might say he looked like a tree twig. He not only looked odd but he spoke too! With a British accent!
He shares with Mellie that she is the Chosen one and must follow him. She wasn't quite sure what to do but once they arrived, Mellie had never seen a place like this before! She is going to go to school...and what a school it is! Here she will learn what it means to be a Fairie -aka- a Fantascital, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squad!

Mellie meets some amazing friends and I just fell in love with all of them. Just to name a few, you will meet an elf, a yeti, and even a limionade.

This book is sooo very good and would be EXCELLENT for younger kids from 11 and up! This is a Fantastic book for those who might want to read something like Narnia!!! M.C. Pearson brings us a wonderful fantasy world and allows the reader to see an example of a deep faith and wonderful friendships!!

A Definite 5 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

#21 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T03:33:00.002-05:00

Here's what Tammy had to say at her blog, Three Different Directions:

So what more is there to say about this book? Well quite a lot actually, but I'll try to keep it short since the professional authors' quotes above summed it up pretty well.

I reall liked this book, it would be fun for a family with pre-teens/teens to read it together. Mellie's adventures kept me swiping (I received an e-book) the pages and I very much enjoyed the fantastical vein this story took. I would recommened it for any one about ages 11 and up that enjoys Christian fantasy reading, and it would make a good Christmas gift.

#20 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T03:29:00.001-05:00

Here's what Joy has to say on her blog, Splashes of Joy:

My Thoughts

Though this is not a genre I read, I did enjoy Mellie’s journey thoughout this book. The author Ms. Pearson has an awesome and unique imagination creating a cast of characters that will feel your heart with love for them as you read this book. And while reading, you will see the wonderful artist the author is as well, with lots and lots of unique graphics and images she has created herself and included within the pages of this book.

Saying this is not a genre I read, doesn’t mean this is not a good book, because it is, especially for the younger generation. They love fantasy books, and one such as this one is great for your teen because they will see the Christ of the Bible written in this story. So add this to your child’s Christmas and give them something fantastic, unique, and just an all around good book for them to read.

I want to thank the author for giving me a copy of this book to read and review. The opinions in this review are mine only. I was not expected to write a positive review.

#19 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T02:22:00.001-05:00

Here's what Camy Tang had to say on her blog, Camy's Loft:

Camy here: I'm just terribly excited to post this excerpt of this book because M.C. Pearson has been an internet friend of mine for a long time. This is perfect for a tween girl in your life who loves fantasy--I would have loved this when I was 11 or 12. Actually, the illustrations reminded me of the Harry Potter books a bit, making it even more enjoyable. I hope you enjoy this excerpt!

#18 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T02:11:00.001-05:00

Here's what Quilly (A.K.A. Charlene L. Amsden) had to say on her blog, Quintessentially Quilly;

It only seems logical that M.C. Pearson would create a vivid and compelling novel. As an experienced book reviewer she certainly knows what it takes to make a great story. And in, F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire, Pearson has covered all of the bases: drama, peril, intrigue, humor, hope — and wonderfully fantastical beings that captured my heart and my imagination and pulled me into the story like the magical force-field that pulled Mellie into their realm.

I know this book is labeled YA, but don’t let that stop you from reading it. Compelling stories don’t have age limits. If you love adventure, worship The One, and wish to bring his kingdom to light on earth, this story will pull you in and bless you. You don’t have to take my word for it. The first chapter is below. Check it out, you’ll be charmed and intrigued.

#17 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T01:58:00.000-05:00

Here's what Janna had to say on her blog, Cornhusker Academy:

MY REVIEW:

I am a big fan of speculative fiction (fantasy) and I have anticipated this book for quite awhile. I was thrilled that it was finally coming out! I sat down to enjoy a new fresh take on fantasy and was so happy that F.A.I.R.I.E.S. does not disappoint. I can't even imagine what it takes to develop an entire world with real things, actual fantastical creatures and maybe even some new, original creatures. Putting it all together with a captivating storyline and you have a winner.

I had only 2 minor things with the book that struck me as a little odd. 1) Mellie, the human character, is 12 (turning 13) when the book starts yet I'm not sure why she is so young and she is developing a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship with a fantastical being. It really seemed to me that if there was going to be a relationship like that she could have been 16 or 17. I just felt a little awkward reading about Mellie and Spike kissing... she is 12... 2) There are a lot of original illustrations in the book which is really cool. But the illustrations were drawn over years and years so the look of the characters changes quite a bit. Not a bad thing, but not real consistent. I think if they had been drawn over a few months (instead of years) it might have made them a little more in keeping with each other. Very original though. Overall this book hits a home run in the fantasy world!

#16 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T01:30:00.000-05:00

Here's what Katie had to say on her blog, Legacy of a Writer:

F.A.I.R.I.E.S., Baptism by Fire is a very sweet, well suited for young readers of many different ages. If you enjoy fantasy and a tale with countless fantastical beings involved, this book will appeal to you in many ways. I think that is why I wasn’t as taken with the novel—while I do enjoy some fantasy, this kind of fantasy isn’t one of them. So, while I give the book 3 stars, it’s through no fault of the author, just my own personal likes/dislikes.

The lively, imaginative, and fun cast of characters within F.A.I.R.I.E.S. will no doubt engage and thrill many readers. I personally had a hard time trying to remember all the different kinds of beings, but that’s probably due to the fact that I don’t normally read books with oceanides, fairies, dwarves, dragons, and whatnot. I did love the friendship between Millie and her S.E. clan—Lizzy, Spike, Zandra, GroBe.

M.C. Pearson has an amazing imagination, creating a world where fairies, dwarves, and dryads exist, unseen to humans. I loved how the fantastical used bible verses repeatedly, and believed in the One and the light He gives. Lovely illustration for young readers! All the different acronyms—F.A.I.R.I.E.S., I.M.P.S., and S.E., to name a few—got a bit confusing for me, I will admit. But it was kinda neat, at the same time.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S: Baptism by Fire took a little while to really ‘get going’, but was filled with many interesting incidents and adventures with Millie and her friends in the meantime. The drawings that Pearson included frequently within the book—which she herself drew!—was really neat, helping to engage the readers with the visuals.

While I did not find it an amazing read, I would recommend viewing other reviews—preferably from those who enjoy the fantasy genre—before coming to a conclusion about this book.

#15 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T01:13:00.000-05:00

Here's what Christy had to say on her blog, Christy's Book Blog:

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire by M.C. Pearson is the first book in a series about Mellie Goodwin and her life as a Fantastical, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squads, aka a F.A.I.R.I.E.! Mellie is running away down the beach from a fight with her older sisters, and in her hurt and sadness she wishes for a life of importance, with riches and status, a life that matters. Her wish is granted in an unusual way when she soon encounters a strange man who looks like a tree twig and speaks with a British accent who informs her that she is the Chosen and must follow him. While she's at first hesitant and startled to find a world populated with beings completely unfamiliar, Mellie quickly throws herself into life learning to be a F.A.I.R.I.E. devoted to serving the One. She makes friends with a motley group including an elf, a limionade, a yeti, and an oceanide, but several people jealous of her status as the Chosen spread rumors about her and try to sabotage her success. Mellie's growth as a person and lessons about this new life are put to the test when attacks by I.M.P.S threaten the forces of Light, and she is the only one who can put an end to a thousand-year-old schism.

I was a bit unsure at first at the idea of fairies in our modern world, especially keeping it in line with Christianity, but Pearson has a light touch at writing that kept me sucked in to this impossible yet thrilling world. The characters are fascinating; each one could carry their own book, and the story has an epic overarching theme that Pearson seems to have plans for many more books in the series. Her sketches give readers an idea of how to imagine these fantastical creatures that can, at time, be difficult to visualize otherwise. For readers who love Narnia or Harry Potter, this is a terrifically compelling story with a deeper message of faith and friendship. My hat is off to Pearson for making this concept not just work, but fly. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!

#14 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T00:53:00.001-05:00

Here's what Farrah had to say on her blog, The Book Faery Reviews:

FROM THE BOOK FAERY REVIEWS…F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire was a fun read that placed me into a magical world of fairies, gremlins, Yeti’s, gnomes, talking trees, nymphs, and others. The pages are filled with excitement as Mellie, a chosen F.A.I.R.I.E. squadmember from the human world, prepares for the big fight in their version of schooling. Pearson draws delightful illustrations throughout the novel to reinforce her magical world. My favorites included the the talking redwood tree that let Regnans & Mellie through to the other world, the Yeti’s foot about to stomp a Gremlin, and Mellie under water getting accustomed to talking and breathing. This is a book I know my 12 year old would enjoy reading and escape into a magical place. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a fun youthful fantasy world.

#13 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T00:43:00.001-05:00

Here's what Nancy had to say on her blog, Sunny Island Breezes:

I don’t normally care to read fantasy type books, but I couldn’t resist something about fairies (or even F.A.I.R.I.E.S.). I’m certainly glad I didn’t pass this one by. I loved it, and I know my grand kids will when I’m ready to let go of it and pass it on.

It’s a thick book (almost 500 pages). I looked at it and figured it would take forever to read. NOT It’s in an easy-to-read format. It’s also so interesting that I didn’t want to put it down. I really didn’t want it to end.
I’m really looking forward to Oh, Pixie Dust! You will, too.

#12 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T00:31:00.000-05:00

Here's what Michele had to say on her blog, My Blessings from Above:

My Thoughts:

F.A.I.R.I.E.S is a delightful book! A young girl Mellie asks for a different life and gets more than she ever asked for or thought possible! Mellie is recruited to join a group of fairies that live in a vast underground world unknown to humans. Mellie has been chosen to join the fairies and join the fight against the Evil One.
This is a very imaginative story that is sure to spark your imagination! I love the original illustrations too! This would make a wonderful family read aloud!

#11 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-06T00:23:00.001-05:00

Here's what Kim had to say on her blog, Window to my World:

You know, if you've read my blog very long, that fantasy isn't my strongpoint. However, Mimi is my friend and sister-in-Christ, and I really wanted to read her first novel! And WOW! This is a story that draws you in with every page. Even the non-human characters are wonderfully developed and you just can't help but love them! And if you're honest, you can identify with Mellie - at least in some point of her struggle. I know I did! And as she learns what she is meant to know, she grows and changes and becomes someone...else - someone who learns she has much to offer.

The allegory - as I see it anyway - is phenomenally incorporated, and F.A.I.R.I.E.S is something more real than fantasy. I really enjoyed this story a great deal, and am happy to recommend it to others!

#10 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T23:54:00.001-05:00

Here's what Georgiana Daniels had to say on her blog, GEORGIANA DANIELS
~GOOD TIMES...GOOD TIMES...~

Because I'm not the target audience for this book, I wasn't sure what to expect when I cracked open F.A.I.R.I.E.S. I'm happy to report that I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed reading about a young girl who stumbles into a fantastical world and trains to join an army of fairies! The book presents the gospel so clearly in a way that will engage pre-teen and young teen readers--consider this book for Christmas!

#9 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T23:46:00.001-05:00

Here's what Amanda had to say on her blog, Short and Sweet:

I really enjoyed this book. It was such an easy read, and it was so much fun. When you read the title, and see that it says faeries, you don't really expect what you get in M.C. Pearson's book. The characters were so unique and fun, and I loved that it takes place in a our own world.

Also, I am very much a sucker for the classic good verses evil theme, which F.A.I.R.I.E.S. definitely delivers. I think that Pearson does a great job of making the book believable. I always say that, in order for a fantasy story to be enjoyable, there has to be a willing suspension of disbelief, and I really had no problem with that while reading this book. I definitely recommend this if you're looking for a fun, adventure-packed, easy read.

One complaint I do have is the cover art. I had a really hard time with the cover. It's just so—frightening-looking, I guess. I just felt like, I'm the type of person who wants to know what my kids are reading, and if I was in a book store, I would have passed right over this book without even looking at the back, let alone reading it myself first.

#8 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T23:17:00.001-05:00

Here's what Wyn had to say on her blog, Wyn's Book Reviews:

My review

Delightful story that includes a 12 year old girl learning that fairies and fantastical creatures do exist and at the same time learning about The One, creator of light. It was interesting to see how biblical verses and mores were taught without actually mentioning God. Mellie runs away from her family at the beach and enters into the world of the fairies. There she joins the academy that will protect the light and fight the dark shadows which want to take over the world. In the process she rooms with a flower fairy, chums with an oceanide, a yeti, and a she-elf while being taught Basic training by a gnome, an Amazon, an elf, and a nymph. Mellie experiences the regular pre-teen problems of self-doubt and emotional swings but learns to work through them and become a promising warrior who can solve problems, work as part of a team and stand her ground for what is right. The story is well written with great descriptions that would inspire imagination in any young reader. It's a book that can be enjoyed by the young and their parents alike.

Thanks to MC Pearson for a review copy of the book. My review is my opinion and is not influenced in anyway by the author or publisher.

#7 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T22:58:00.001-05:00

Here's what Tina has to say on her blog, Homesschool and Family:

This book is about a twelve year old girl named Mellie. (She turns 13 during Basic). It begins with her running away from her sisters at the beach because she thinks they are going to kill her due to the fact she got sand all over one of them and a sandwich. She runs for a long time and all of a sudden sees a grove of trees where she thinks she sees something move. Then she sees a dark shadow in a group of rocks which scares her so she goes towards the trees. In the trees, a leaf-man appears. He is made of twigs and leaves. He tells her that she is a "Chosen" one and he leads her through the forest to a big tree. This big tree opens up to lead them into the realm of the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. (Fantastical Aerial International Reasonably Inconspicuous Emancipation Squads) *EDITED DUE TO SPOILERS* It's full of adventure and was an interesting read. Some of the illustrations are odd and could have been left out. I would recommend this book for preteen to early teen girls.

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received or expected.

#6 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T22:19:00.001-05:00

Here's what Victor Gentile has to say on his blog, Vic's Media Room:

My Review: This book is exceptional. Honestly, I did not know what to expect and was pleasantly surprised when I started reading. Now I know what FAIRIES stand for: Fantastical, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squads….F.A.I.R.I.E.S! The best part of this book is its relationship to the Bible. Verses from the Bible come alive in these pages as they take a turn to tell this story. Get ready this is an exciting story, not only for your children but for adults as well!

#5 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T17:00:00.003-05:00

Here's what Tweezle (Theresa) has to say on her blog, Just One More Paragraph:

My Thoughts:

Fantasies are one of my absolute favorite genres. The worlds are only as different as each author can imagine, so when I crack a book, I never know where I will end up. In F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Mrs. Pearson created a world where her characters are charming, witty, fantastical, sweet, magical and sometimes even a bit in the mood to bicker. This young adult fantasy is such a fun and engrossing read. I had started to read it on my Nook, but because of all the illustrations, I borrowed a Netbook and read from there. The illustrations are such a lovely addition to the story. Mrs. Pearson personally illustrated her book and she was very liberal at the amount of hand-drawn illustrations! I enjoyed them on the screen, but I think this would be even lovelier in print! This story should appeal to all ages, but I think it will particularly appeal to the female tween audience. The main character, Mellie Goodwin, is a girl that most will be able to identify with and has a great lesson to give to the reader.

#4 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T16:26:00.001-05:00

Here's what Sarah has to say on her blog, Growing For Christ
Follower of Christ. Wife. Mom. Homeschooler. Homemaker. Reviewer. Enough said!

My Opinion:

While I’m not done reading my e-copy of Baptism by Fire I am so glad that I went ahead and requested this book. Usually I’m not into the YA fantasy, sci-fi genre but this book has me actually wanting to keep reading and I know if my daughters would read this they’d be the same way. I can’t wait to finish reading this book because I just know that it’s going to continue to keep me enthralled the entire way through it as I meet the other F.A.I.R.I.E.S. For those who are hesitant to let their children read this because of the genre, don’t be, this book written and illustrated by a Christian woman is Christian through out and I just may find myself wanting to try more of this genre as long as it keeps Christ as the One.

#3 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T03:52:00.002-05:00

Here's what Nina has to say on her blog, Fontasauras:

Reading F.A.I.R.I.E.S. is such a wonderful escape, a kind of imagination therapy if you will. The author beckons you with every word, "Come, try out your wings, let's fly." Loved it!

#2 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-05T03:27:00.000-05:00

Here's another wonderful review from one of my oldest blogger friends, David Meigs. (His endorsement is inside the actual book as well!)...This is from a post on his blog, Novel Spotlight:

Today it is my delight to share a book with you that holds a special place in my heart. It is called, F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire, and it is written and illustrated by my old friend, M. C. Pearson. However, as with most of her friends, I prefer to call her Mimi. Several years ago, we exchanged drafts of our novels for critique purposes. Knowing Mimi, I expected something highly imaginative and exciting, but her novel set me back on my heals. It was a blast! As you can imagine, I was excited to learn that her wonderful novel was finally being released.

As a youth minister, I am often asked for recommendations on quality books that parents can trust and their children will love. F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire, has earned my highest endorsement. It will have your kids rolling with laughter and reading late into the night under their covers with a flashlight. Best of all, all that fun is infused with a life-changing message they will not soon forget.

I urge you to go out and pick up a copy for all the tweens & teens on your Christmas list.

#1 F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire Blog Tour!

2011-12-04T23:34:00.002-05:00

I can't be more excited by the prospect of reading what my FIRST members thought about my book, F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire. The tour starts on 12-05-11 and lasts all day. I have a huge list of bloggers that requested the tour, and I plan to visit them all. I'm going to copy the reviews for you and give you a link to where they posted the tour on their blogs so that you may visit them all. One of the bloggers already has her post up, so I'll start there.

Carly at Carlybird's Home wrote:

Before I get into all the things that I loved about this story, I would like to share all the things I loved about the actual book. I received a hard copy of this book and when I opened the envelop I was instantly impressed by the superior quality of the publishing. This book has instant visual appeal with the cover art and as soon as I opened the book, I was again impressed with the paper quality, the typesetting and the illustrations (done by the author herself). This book was very professionally done and I can’t rave enough about the quality of the book itself. That is why I prefer actual books over ebooks. You just don’t get the same level of enjoyment that I got from actually holding this fine book in my hands.

Now to the story. When this book first started, it sounded like a “normal” story, which is just fine, but since I was expecting a fantasy, I was a little surprised that this story started out so normal. Well, that didn’t last! Once the story really got going (only took a few pages) and I got to see the author’s imagination coming alive, I was hooked. We all at some point in our lives want to escape into another world and I loved coming along with Mellie on this adventure. Mimi Pearson is a very talented writer with a vivid imagination, not to mention a very good artist. I thoroughly enjoyed coming along for the ride. I’m very happy that I have become such a fan of fantasy books because if I hadn’t, I would not have read F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Baptism by Fire. This is an excellent book and such a fun read. I highly recommend it, and not just to fans of this genre.

Hardcover Feedback: Interview with M.C. Pearson and 'F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: B...

2011-12-03T23:53:00.000-05:00

Hardcover Feedback: Interview with M.C. Pearson and 'F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: B...: Today I am interviewing M. C. Pearson, author of F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire . M.C., welcome to Hardcover Feedback! Would you tell us a ...

Book Trailer for F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire by M. C. Pearson

2011-11-30T16:06:00.000-05:00

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire by M. C. Pearson

2011-11-30T11:25:00.000-05:00

Order F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire by M. C. Pearson now on Amazon.com, just click on the cover.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire written and illustrated by M. C. Pearson

2011-11-30T00:54:00.000-05:00

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author & illustrator is:

M. C. Pearson

and the book:

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire

FIRST Wild Card Press (December 5, 2011)

***Special thanks to M. C. Pearson of FIRST Wild Card Press for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

M. C. Pearson graduated from San Jose State University with a B. A. in art, served as a multi-media illustrator in the United States Army, earning the rank of sergeant, and spent four years as a house parent for at-risk youth. Now married over 20 years, she homeschools her two children, volunteers with her church youth group, and runs a book review blog alliance (FIRST Wild Card Tours) while writing and drawing. F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire is her first novel.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Unwittingly chosen to join an army of fairies, who fight for the Light of the One, a teenaged girl learns about spiritual warfare as she attends a military academy with fantastical beings.

FROM THE BACK COVER:

Here lies a most precious treasure,

Awaiting one Chosen to deliver.

Seek out the red cousins in the East,

For on this your greed mustn't feast.

The wealth of a species now in your hands,

Do with it as the light demands.

Give them your gift to unite,

For it is the darkness we all must fight.

EDITORIAL REVIEWS:

"Imagination runs wild in F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Pearson brings young readers through a looking glass and into a world bursting with adventure, heroism, and fascinating creatures. Readers will be inspired to be true to the One and left with anticipation of more to come."
--Jill Williamson, award-winning author of
By Darkness Hid, and other books

"Sprinkled with delightful illustrations, and brimming with a full bestiary of magical creatures, F.A.I.R.I.E.S. is a fun, clever romp through the alternate landscape of the most magical world of all, our own. Read, and take up the call: 'Defend and Emancipate!'"
-- D. Barkley Briggs, author of
The Book of Names, and other books

"F.A.I.R.I.E.S. will appeal to readers who love the interplay of fantasy and reality. A rich cast of eccentric characters and exotic settings make this a fun addition to the folklore of the battle between good and evil."
--Mike Hamel, author of
YA fantasy series: MATTERHORN THE BRAVE

"F.A.I.R.I.E.S. is one of those rare gems I want to tell everyone about. It's highly imaginative, packed with adventure, and full of hope. A must read for kids and for kids at heart. Even better than Narnia! I was thinking about Pearson's wonderfully memorable characters for days."
--C.J. Darlington, author of
Thicker than Blood

"Ms. Pearson's extravagant and imaginative F.A.I.R.I.E. kingdom will surely delight the young and the young-at-heart in this tale of good and evil, light vs. darkness. The fantasy-loving reader will not be disappointed!"
--Linore Rose Burkard, award winning author of
Before the Season Ends, and other books

Product Details:

List Price: $17.99
Paperback: 482 pages
Publisher: FIRST Wild Card Press (December 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0615530222
ISBN-13: 978-0615530222

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Four thousand seasons shall pass while our swords grow rusty.

Where once one chose to divide, another shall be chosen to unite.

One changed the past, the other shall change the future.

One must emancipate the other to allow the light its dominion.

The realm, now torn, allows the shadow to abide, as humanity lies blind to its peril.

The bond of friendship must endure, for the army of shadows awaits another tear.

Dust off your swords.

Unite the realm.

Destroy the strongholds.

Foretelling of Didasko Gnome Digdeep

†

PART ONE

MANY ARE CALLED

BUT

FEW ARE CHOSEN

†

CHAPTER ONE

Off and Running

t was an accident!” Mellie yelled, not caring who heard or stared. Tears streaked her face as she fled down the Santa Cruz coastline, away from her family.

You don’t need them, a voice hissed in her ear, Escape. Run away.

Scorching sand burned at her feet and bitterness ate at her heart. Mellie pumped her legs as fast as they would go. Her feet pounded with the rhythm of her emotions, beating a tempo with the crashing waves. Run-a-way. Run-a-way. Run-a-way. Adrenaline pulsed through her veins, quickening her step.

Why did I have to be the youngest? Only 12 years old. Never smart enough. Never athletic enough. I just wish they loved me.

Once, just once, she wanted to do something that would make her sisters see that she wasn’t the stupid, awkward, ugly, little baby sister.

As she ran, she wiped away some tears with the palm of her hand. Her fingers settled on her large nose, a gift from her dad’s Hungarian ancestry.

Chelsea got the ski-slope shaped nose. I had to get Half-Dome. It just isn’t fair.

Her hand dropped to her side and she pinched at her stomach. It still had some of its baby fat.

Ugh, why are my sisters so perfect? What happened to me?

Pushing her short bangs from her forehead in disgust, she mumbled, “Maybe I’ll find treasure. I’ll be the rich one, and then they’ll have to accept me.” But she knew better. California didn’t hold any more undiscovered treasures.

The sand, hot and coarse, cut at her feet. I wish I had remembered my shoes. She wore only a black, one-piece swimsuit and a San Jose Sharks sweatshirt tied tightly around her waist.

Breathing rapidly, she began to tire. She slowed her pace to a walk and looked back across the beach. The sand was so hot that waves of heat rose from it and blurred her view. A lone seagull screeched overhead.

Her sisters were nowhere in sight.

Man, I thought for sure that Chelsea was going to chase me down and kill me.

She had to admit that it was a little gratifying to see the sand fly from her foot, covering Chelsea’s sub-sandwich and freshly oiled stomach. Grinning slightly, the tears stopped flowing. She rubbed her eyes.

Mellie looked in the direction of her sisters. “You guys can never take a joke.” Flipping her golden hair, she turned her head back toward her chosen path. She no longer smiled as she stomped her feet in the cold surf, remembering the hateful words that had been said.

“Oh, waa waa, you stupid cry baby! Go tell mommy! Maybe she’ll feel sorry for her ugly, fat baby. Why don’t you grow up? We don’t want you near us. Can’t you understand English? You are so dumb. Look at her mouth open. Oh wait, here she goes…come on, baby…cry!”

Mellie knew she couldn’t go back. They would only ridicule and torment her further. Her mom would never believe it was Chelsea’s fault. No, the evidence was on Chelsea’s side. Who was the one with the sand all over her oily, coconut-smelling body? Who was the one who had a sandwich full of sand? Mellie walked on.

After her temper finally cooled, it occurred to her that she had never walked so far alone.

How far have I gone?

A shadow passed over her, and she looked up. Nothing was there. A cool breeze from the ocean created a stark contrast to the scalding sand. She shivered but kept walking, lost in her loneliness.

Not until she stubbed her toe on a large broken clamshell did she look at the beach. A chill snaked up her back. Nothing appeared familiar. The sounds of the surf were still there, yet something was decidedly different. She felt dizzy. Looking around, she could not quite pinpoint the change. Then it struck her.

No people.

Where did everybody go?

Even though she could see no one, Mellie could swear that she felt eyes staring at her.

She looked inland across the sand, saw movement near some eucalyptus trees, but decided that the wind must have caused it.

Trees? So close to the beach?

Something shook the trees again, causing goosebumps to stand out on Mellie’s arms. Alarmed, she checked the skyline. The sun was close to setting. She hoped that the police weren’t out looking for her.

Suddenly cold, she pulled at the arms of the sweatshirt still tied around her waist. It fell to the sand. Bending to pick it up, she once again saw a blur of movement, except this time it came from a rocky outcrop by the waves. She shook the sand out of the sweatshirt and hurriedly tugged it over her head.

“Okay, I’m seeing things.” Mellie yanked at her hair, pulling it out of the sweatshirt. She stared at the sinister rocks. “Hel-lo?” Her voice cracked as she spoke louder. “Is someone the-ere? Hello?” No answer. The shadowy rocks seemed to quiver with excitement, beckoning her closer.

Hmm…probably just a seagull.

Even if it was a bird, she did not want to see it.

There’s no way I’m going over there.

The wind picked up and blew her hair into her eyes. The sand spun with the wind.

Yes, definitely time to move. I need to find a road.

She turned back toward the sweet smelling, oddly placed trees.

Mellie arrived at the base of the first, colossal eucalyptus tree. Without warning, one of the branches fell in front of her, then seemed to get up from the ground and pose its bottom stems in a military-like stance.

Mellie screamed and jumped back. “Branches don’t stand.”

“They do if they are walking sticks.” The eucalyptus branch chuckled, stretching to its full height, considerably taller than Mellie’s meager five feet.
She gasped, grabbed the branch, and threw it like a javelin, as hard as she could.

As she took off running, she heard a bark and halted. Turning, she saw a golden retriever bounding toward her with the stick in his mouth. The dog dropped it at her feet. She watched the dog run into the grove of trees and disappear before she fearfully turned back to the possessed stick.

It had already gained its footing again and stood over her. Mellie was too frightened to move this time.

A face emerged from the skinny twig and took on the characteristics of a male human, but none like Mellie had ever seen. He had hair made up in rolls as if it were a powdered, green-silver wig, the same color as the leaves that grew all around his skinny body. His face was long and his forehead high. The twiggy man smiled and said in a distinctly British, albeit breezy, accent, “Do not worry, you are safe.”

Mellie couldn’t answer.

“Ahh…I love new recruits. They are so easily addled.”

Feeling more confused than threatened, Mellie found her voice. “What? What do you mean, new recruits?” She rubbed her eyes, shaking her head. “Okay, I’m talking to a stick now. Yes, I have lost it. I have gone totally mental.”

“Oh, I say, am I to understand that I am the first to be revealed to you?” With round, leathery leaves, the branch resembled a toddler toy with rings stacked on one another.

She dropped open her mouth and nodded.

“Well, let me do this properly, then. Ahem. Mortal, made of clay, you have been Chosen to join the Fantastical, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squads.”

“What? What are you? You look like a stick…but you can talk.”

“Yes, child,” the stick replied with a sigh. “But, I think we are quite past that by now. Have you not heard me? You have been Chosen.”

Mellie opened her mouth wider, closed it, frowned, and opened it once more. “Chosen? For what?”

“You did wish to be different? To change who you were? ’Twas an especially strong desire, yes?” The branch crossed its arms and tapped its twiggy foot.

“Umm…”

“Dear me, this is highly unusual. You made a choice to run away from a miserable life and asked to be set free? Correct?”

“Well, I, ah…yeah. I guess so. What did you say about recruit for some squad?”

“Humph. I see that I was not understood. Yes? Let me elucidate. The Fantastical, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squads , or shall I say F.A.I.R.I.E.S.? have accepted you into their organization. You asked. You were answered.” The branch attempted a smile, but looked impatient instead.

“Fairies? I don’t believe in fairies.” Mellie winced, half expecting him to fall down and writhe in pain until she clapped her hands.

“Quite right. You are not supposed to. If humans truly believed we existed, we would never get anything accomplished.”

Mellie laughed and looked around for a hidden camera, thinking this must be a joke. “Right. Ah…heh…okay, bud, brilliant costume,” she said, imitating the branch’s accent. “Where’s the zipper?” She reached toward him and touched a soft leaf.

The branch slapped her hand away and stamped its foot with a loud cracking noise. “I beg your pardon. I have not been a bud for over 800 springs!” He paced, his leaves crumpling, mumbling to himself about humans and why, in the One’s name, did he listen to that confounded gnome who told him that he needed to stand gate duty. With his rank!

“I’m sorry I upset you. Please, I’m very confused. I’m lost, and I just want to go home.” Mellie bit her lip.

The branch stopped mid-pace. “Home? Earlier, did you not wish for a new life? And riches? I know you wished for treasure, hmm?”

“How do you know that?” Mellie furrowed her brow. “Have you been reading my mind?”

The twig man didn’t answer her questions, asking his own instead. “Ahh, so, you admit this, yes?”

She narrowed her eyes. “Yes, but…well, this really isn’t what I had in mind.”

The branch threw up its twiggy fingers. “Oh, well, of course you did not have this in mind. After all, we are reasonably inconspicuous, especially to humans. How could you have this in mind? However, is it not superior of the One to think that this is what you would have chosen had you known about us? Anyway, ’tis irrevocable now. So, if you would just follow me, we shall get you signed in and enrolled for training.”

The branch marched off between the trunks of two large eucalyptus trees.

Mellie slid uncontrollably after the walking stick. She planted her feet firmly, refusing to budge, but she slid after him anyway. Grasping at branches of nearby trees, she panted heavily as she struggled to resist following the branch. Some kind of invisible tie connected her to him. He seemed to pull her along with his every step.

Mellie thought about her sisters and how mad they were at her. I’m dead meat if they find me. Mellie quickly gave up her battle and ran after the eucalyptus branch, barely keeping up with his stride.

†

The sand changed to coarse dirt, with pebbles and sticks. More and more trees filled Mellie’s vision. Bushes scraped against her bare legs and slapped her face as she moved deeper inside a forest of eucalyptus and redwood trees. She winced in pain as a razor-sharp rock sliced her foot. Stopping to nurse it, she wished once again for her forgotten shoes.

“Excuse me, sir?” Mellie looked around. She could not see the branch anywhere.

“Do not call me ‘sir’, I work for a living.” The branch peeked out from around one of the gigantic trees. “And please, try to keep up. We need to reach the gateway.”

Mellie limped up to him. “Sorry, sir…I mean…umm, what should I call you then?”

“Oh, well, we did skip that. Did we not? Yes, all right, an introduction then.” The branch man seemed to enjoy formal etiquette for he gave an elaborate wave and bowed. “My name is Regnans, family of Myrtaceae, born member of the F.A.I.R.I.E.S., Britannia Wing, rank of Master Nymph Dryad.”

“Nice to meet you, Reg…Reg?” Mellie chewed on the inside of her mouth. Never good at remembering names, she knew she would offend him with her lack of manners.

Sure enough, the dryad raised an eyebrow and pursed his lips. “Regnans.” He gave a hurt sniff, then drolly sneered. “If you find that a difficult name, you should meet the rest of my family, all seven-hundred thirty-four of them.”

“Sorry, I just…well, it is a lot to remember. It’s a nice name, though. My name is Maryellen Goodwin of Bret Harte Middle School, San Jose, California. But everyone calls me Mellie.” She stuck out her hand, intending to shake. Regnans stared at her.

“That is a strange curtsy. However, I guess ’twill do. We must get moving now. The shadows abound, you know.” Regnans made an about face and marched off faster than before.

Another hour passed, and still they strode along the forest floor. Mellie’s feet were now cut, blistered, and bleeding. She kept up as best she could with Regnans’s long stride. Whenever she tried to stop, he would pull her on with that invisible force of his.

Stupid, pompous, magical Star Wars freak.

She whimpered as she limped. Darkness and mist now covered the woods. As she was about to plead for a break, Regnans stopped. Except for her heavy gulps of air, all seemed quiet.

Regnans stiffened even more than usual. Nothing on him moved, apart from his eyes, which darted around quickly.

“All is safe, we may proceed.” He held up a twiggy finger to his woody mouth. “Please do not speak, and try not to breathe so abominably loud.”

Mellie nodded with a disgusted frown. Sweat dripped from her bangs. She tried to calm her breathing, even though her vision blurred, and her legs wobbled. Her blisters had popped by now and oozed wetness.

Regnans moved again, yet this time he took slow, deliberate steps, all the while scanning his surroundings. He walked up to a massive redwood tree and stroked its bark.

A breeze stirred up, rattling the leaves, sounding almost like spoken words. Mellie thought herself crazy again. However, the longer she stood there, the more she sensed that it really was the tree’s language, as if she had never listened to trees properly before. It said, “If you love, you will say the one true love that leads the way.”

Regnans whispered in a leaf rustling voice, “Ah-gaw-pay.”

A loud grumbling sound, as if someone awakened after a long sleep, shook the grove. The redwood tree opened two eyes, each the size of Mellie’s head, and blinked. A great fissure erupted below the eyes in the shape of a crescent, and redish-brown wooden teeth emerged. A long, knobby branch pushed its way out above the mouth and inhaled deeply.

The tree chuckled. Instead of the whispering leaves, a low, rumbling utterance of human speech came from the redwood tree. “Regnans? What brings you to my neck of the woods?” He blinked again. “And who is this? A new recruit? A human? A Chosen?”

Mellie knew she looked silly, standing there with her mouth in an ‘O’ shape, but she couldn’t move. This was simply impossible. There is no such thing as fairies!

“Yes, yes. Please open the gate, we must not dawdle here…they may be watching.” Regnans looked agitated.

A deep laugh resounded from the redwood. “Oh, Regnans. There are none who watch here.”

Regnans mumbled something about hamadryads and their pride, then proclaimed in a slightly louder voice to the tree, “We must be sober, be vigilant, because the shadow walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom it may devour.”

The hamadryad looked chagrined. “You speak true, dryad. Forgive me for acting like an arrogant seedling.” He glanced at Mellie, and with a lowered voice asked, “And what is your name, little human?”

Mellie managed to squeak out, “Mellie Goodwin.”

“Ah, ’tis always nice to have a Good Wind.” The hamadryad laughed heartily.

“Sorry to interrupt this lovely tete-a-tete,” Regnans said, “but would you please open the gate? I left Westside completely unguarded.”

An annoyed creak came from the base of the redwood, followed by a sigh. “Yes, Regnans. Agape you said, and agape it is. Go with the light, my friends.” The large, joyous eyes closed, and the hamadryad whispered in his leaf rustling voice, “Until we meet again, Good Wind.” His face disappeared, and his roots lifted and pulled apart, exposing a tunnel within his trunk.

Regnans grabbed Mellie’s hand with his rough, wooden one, and pulled her inside the opening. The tree closed itself abruptly and left them in total darkness.

Regnans cleared his throat and said, “Let there be light.”

A burst of dazzling brightness sparkled from the tunnel’s wall. Mellie glanced around and noticed a long, winding stairwell leading down into the ground.

“Shall we, then?” Not waiting for a reply, Regnans started down the steps.

Available at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com.

Barnes & Noble Ad on YouTube!

2011-11-29T19:00:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness! My son, Keegan, was looking up some Call of Duty YouTube stuff, and saw an ad for my book! CRAZY!!! Look at the far right corner. Below the first picture is a zoomed in shot of the ad from Barnes & Noble. I did not pay for this! God is so cool! He knew that I needed encouragement.

Fairies! Free Coloring Pages!

2011-11-03T01:17:00.003-04:00

Free Coloring pages from Dover.

Release Date: 12-05-2011!

2011-10-16T22:03:00.001-04:00

Which Cover?

2011-09-19T20:39:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone!

I had one of my advanced readers ask about the cover. She wondered who was on it since the girl pictured wasn't blonde. My gorgeous cover girl is actually a dark blonde. I've tried to lighten the hair. Tell me which you prefer. You can click on them to see them better.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Baptism by Fire

2008-10-06T23:08:00.012-04:00

War.

The Light fades as the Shadow
grows.

Who will shine in the

Darkness?
Who will fight?

THE BATTLE HAS BEGUN...

And now the first chapter...

Four thousand seasons shall pass while our swords grow rusty.

Where once one chose to divide, another shall be chosen to unite.

One changed the past, the other shall change the future.

One must emancipate the other to allow the light its dominion.

The realm, now torn, allows the shadow to abide, as humanity lies blind to its peril.

The bond of friendship must endure, for the army of shadows awaits another tear.

Dust off your swords.

Unite the realm.

Destroy the strongholds.

Foretelling of Didasko Gnome Digdeep

†

PART ONE

MANY ARE CALLED

BUT

FEW ARE CHOSEN

†

CHAPTER ONE

Off and Running

†

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.: Oh, Pixiedust!

2008-10-06T00:52:00.002-04:00

THE BATTLE CONTINUES...

Click HERE to read the first chapter

Encyclopedia of Fantastical Beings in the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Realm

2007-10-15T16:48:00.000-04:00

A-C
D-F
G-I
J-L
M-O
P-R
S-U
V-Z

If you do not see a word that you would like me to describe, please leave a comment.

Encyclopedia: A-C

2007-10-13T16:51:00.000-04:00

Aerial— possessing the ability to fly.

Aerie— where dragons live.

Agape— God’s love.

Alban— a trainee barbegazi and one of the green team members; name means white, fair, steadfast, secure in God’s love.

Alexandra— a trainee elf, one of the S.E., nicknamed Zandra; name means ‘helper and defender of mankind, quickened by spirit’.

Algae— plant that grows abundantly in lakes; slimy and greenish brown colored.

Amazons— giant warrior women from the Amazon Rain Forest, resemble Brazilian women, wear their hair in a short bob cut, wear animal pelts. Didasko Lou is an Amazon.

Amelia Earhart— a Chosen didasko squadmember in the Pacific Volcanic Sect who teaches flying to cadets, a human pilot who was lost at sea after her airplane ran out of gas in an attempt to fly around the world; name means ‘industrious one, blessed, a zealous worker’.

Apprentice— one working for another in order to learn a trade.

Arachne— the master weaver who resides in West Coast Sect and is half-human and half-spider; name means ‘of a spider’.

Archives— a place that keeps documents or records, library.

Archivist— keeper of the archives, similar to a librarian.

Armor of the One— waist girded with truth, breastplate of righteousness, shone feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of the One.

Athenaeum— a library.

Atlantis— Lost city in the ocean, now home of royal merfolk.

Baitoushan— a 2,300 foot stratovolcano on the border of China and Korea, elevation of 9,003 feet, location of the Chinese red dragon aerie.

Barbegazi— white furred, gnome sized yeti/sasquach beings that reside in snowy mountains, Trainee Alban is one.

Bathehouse— a room containing a large fresh water springs pool in which one bathes or swims.

Bhogavati— a great underground city located under Asia, capital city and principal home of the nagas, snake-people, members of the I.M.P.S.

Big Foot— a shy yeti didasko in West Coast Academy who speaks only when needed; legendary sasquash of Santa Cruz, California; father of Große Füße.

Blaise— a Chinese red dragon who sponsors Mellie in the dragon aerie; name means ‘firebrand’.

Blind— a mind action gift that temporarily blinds one’s enemy.

Boogiemen— I.M.P.S. that are spirit-like and love to bother humans, especially children.

Brogan— the Irish leprechaun who makes Mellie’s shoes; name means ‘shoe’ in German.

Bubbles— the resident cluricaun of the West Coast Sect who created Kokolers; named for his bubbly drink.

Buck— the faun who works in F.E.P.S. Hall; a buck is a male deer.

Bunyips— I.M.P.S. that are grotesque, horrible monsters who live in dark swampy waters, triple the size of a dragon, sharp beaks of emus, half of their bodies like gigantic rodents, retractable claws in their forepaws, and sea serpent scales upon the bottom half of their long snake-like tails. Bunyips screech a high pitched and terrifying bray.

Cadet— rank of a being that is learning leadership and flying.

Caldera— a basinlike depression resulting from an explosion of the center of a volcano.

Carry— a mind action gift that allows one to carry things that are normally overly heavy or bulky.

Centaurs— half-human and half-horse, F.A.I.R.I.E. Squadmember if descendent of the Chronus line, I.M.P. Sorcerer if descendant of the Ixion line.

Chosen— a human who is called by the One to become a F.A.I.R.I.E. Squadmember.

Chronus— The light line of centaur originating from the centaurs, Chronus and Philyra, educated and sober centaurs.

Cluricaun— beings who take care of the nectars in the cellar, resemble mini-innkeepers, Bubbles is a cluricaun.

Cockatrice— the size of a bobcat, resembles a bad mixture of a snake and a rooster, has two terrifying weapons: its eyes and its razor sharp teeth. If anyone locks eyes with this beast, that being dies instantly, allowing the bird-reptile a nice, easy lunch. They are wild fantastical creatures and do not care who they attack, as long as they are killing something. Dark or light, it doesn’t matter to the cockatrice.

Corinthian Columns— an architectural term meaning that the top of a column is decorated in a Greek, superfluous manner.

Creed— the document that states the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. beliefs.

CFTT Book— Common F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Tasks Training manual for Basic Survival, Basic Self-Defense, and Basic First-Aid classes.

Encyclopedia: D-F

2007-10-12T17:39:00.000-04:00

Daer Dnim— a gift of the One that allows a being to read another’s mind.

Defender of the Realm— a rank rarely given; one who is completely trusted by the fero, proven in battle, loyal to the light, and friend of all beings.

Deutsche— German for German.

Didasko— Greek for ‘I teach’; the teachers in academies are called this.

Discernment— to perceive by sight or intellect, to distinguish mentally, showing good judgement, and understanding.

Dnes Eciov— a gift of the One that allows a being to send his/her voice without having to move.

Dnim Erutpac— a gift of the One that allows a being to capture the mind of another and hold it; very unsettling gift that is almost like the dark power to possess.

Doela— the female trainee faun who splits Zandra’s kneecap in hand-to-hand combat during the Capture the Flag games, member of the blue team; name meaning ‘a female deer’.

Dormitory— rooms where squadmembers live during training or duties.

Draconis— Latin for dragon.

Dragons— light beings who historically protect humans, have keen sight, various colored scales depending on nationality, spiky ridges, leathery wings, horse-like faces, scaly taloned hands with opposable thumbs, and use mindspeak to communicate. Dragons in general retain the qualities of being fire breathing, ingenious, discerning, extremely sensitive, and wise.

Dryads— a nymph, resembles a branch of a tree, helps hamadryads protect the realm of trees; native language: treespeak.

Dwarves— light beings, architects, diggers, and tunnelers.

Elizabeth— a cadet wildflower limoniade nymph and roommate of Mellie, a member of the S.E., nicknamed Lizzy, full name Leucanthemum Superbum; name means ‘oath of God, consecrated one’.

Ella— a trainee elf, friend of Gar-Rick, on the blue team, bests Mellie at the flagpole; name means ‘elf, fair, beautiful, sustaining friend’.

Elves— usually light beings with long white-blonde hair and flawless, dove white skin, eyes that vary in different shades of green, overly lengthy fingers, pointed ears, and long and supple limbs, yet strong. Zandra, Gar-Rick, Yves, and Ella are elves.

Emancipation— act of freeing a being from bondage or slavery.

Esther Read— mother of Elizabeth and Strateuma Fero of the West Coast Sect, named after the mum that she resembles; name means ‘a star, shinning one, victorious’.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S.— Fantastical, Aerial, International, Reasonably Inconspicuous, Emancipation Squads.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Alphabet and Numbers: Argo, Bannik, Cheshire, Dragon, Elf, Faun, Gryphon, Hydra, Icarus, Jinni, Kelpie, Loch-Ness, Mermaid, Nereid, Oreade, Pixie, Quaaltagh, Rainbow, Siren, Troll, Uldra, Vampire, Werewolf, Xenos, Yeti, Zephyrus and Wun, Too, Tree, Fow-er, Fife, Six, Sev-en, Ait, Nin-er, Ze-ro.

F.E.P.S. Hall— F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Entrance Processing Station.

Fantastical— imaginary, like a daydream.

Fauns— half-human and half-deer, gentle, timid, harmless, and scare easily.

Fero— Greek for leader; each F.A.I.R.I.E.S. sect has a fero

Fire Lizards— also known as fire salamanders, black and yellow lizards that can live anywhere: in fire, in air, in earth, and in water. Rarely seen and thought to be impossible to catch, they need to replenish their heat generators every so often by performing a mystifying ceremony. They communicate by song. Scar is a fire salamander.

Fire Salamanders— also known as fire lizards, black and yellow lizards that can live anywhere: in fire, in air, in earth, and in water. Rarely seen and thought to be impossible to catch, they needs to replenish their heat generators every so often by performing a mystifying ceremony. They communicate by song. Scar is a fire salamander.

Flowstone— a formation in caves made from mineral deposits water slowly seeps over a wall or floor.

Foresight— the ability to see future events, like a prophet.

Füße— Große and Kleine’s last name; German for ‘feet’; pronounced Foossa.

Fuchsia— the Far East Sect’s Strateuma Fero, a garden annual limoniade; name derived from the flower she represents.

Encyclopedia: G-I

2007-10-11T22:56:00.000-04:00

Gar’Rikk— a trainee elf who is next in line for the 'Rikk clan kingship; name means ‘spear king, ruler, champion’.

Gift- something which can be learned, earned, or both; given by the One to do the light’s work.

Ginosko— Greek meaning ‘to learn’ or ‘to understand’. The word gnome is derived from this word.

Glory— a cadet vine limoniade nymph, Elizabeth’s cousin, who spreads rumors about Mellie. Also known as Morning Glory and Ipomoeca Purpurea; name derived from the morning glory weed.

Glows— underwater lights that produce a greenish glow, made by gremlins.

Gnomes— grow to be three and one-half inches tall, resemble the original human occupants of where they were born, love to learn, can predict and learn from the future, are wise, happy, and never worry. The word, ‘gnome’, comes from the Greek word, ‘ginosko’ meaning ‘to learn’ or ‘to understand’.

Goblins— I.M.P.S. that grow to be about six inches tall, are humanoid in form, originated in France, are malicious, mischievous, cunning, and depraved; related to redcaps.

Gorgons— an upper body of a human female, lower body of a snake (female nagas) large head, round face, flat nose, large protruding teeth, lolling tongue, hair consists of a tangled mass of snakes, anyone who looks into a gorgon’s eyes is instantly turned into stone. Medusa was a gorgon.

Gremlins— grow to be no more than one inch tall, brilliant mechanics and engineers with a nasty sense of humor; makers of the Sub-Light Way. They used to help out humans with ideas and developments in technology until humans took all the credit for Gremlin inventions. During their vacations or just when they get bored, they fool around with human machines and wreak havoc by placing a gremlin effect on human tools.

Gryphons— are half eagle and half lion, great hunters with have keen eyes. They are light creatures.

Große— a yeti trainee and a member of the S.E.; German for ‘big’, pronounced Grossa.

Gypsum Flowers— a fibrous speleothem (secondary mineral deposit formed in caves such as stalactites and stalagmites) of sulfate that radiates out in ‘petals’ from a common base.

Hadrian— a trainee African gnome who is leader of the green team; name means ‘the black one, brave, warrior for the right’.

Hamadryads— also known as treants, nymphs that are tree-shaped and protect the forests and woods that they reside in, native language: treespeak, usually only reveal themselves to dryads and other hamadryads.

Homo Sapiens— Latin for the species of human; Mellie, Lilith, and Amelia are homo sapiens.

House Regent— highest-ranking kobold.

I.M.P.S.— Immoral Manipulative Peonage Sorcerers.

Igneous Rock— produced under intense heat: rocks of volcanic origin.

Immoral— violating moral principles, licentious or lascivious, corrupt, unethical, depraved, wicked.

Inconspicuous— not conspicuous (easily seen or attracting special attention) or noticeable.

International— between or among nations, of two or more nations or their citizens, having members or dealings in several nations.

Ipomoeca Purpurea— a cadet vine limoniade nymph, Elizabeth’s cousin, who spreads rumors about Mellie; a hateful weed, commonly known as Morning Glory that grows as a vine and infests fields and gardens; Greek meanings: Ipomoeca= wormlike, Purpurea= purple.

Iris— a didasko rainbow nymph who teaches Introduction to Being Inconspicuous and Introduction to Emancipation; name means ‘a rainbow, God’s promise’.

Ixion— the dark line of centaur originating from the centaur, Ixion, a noted rascal; with the strength of stallions and the greed, lust, and arrogance of human males; love to have drunken brawls; members of I.M.P.S.

Encyclopedia: J-L

2007-10-10T23:16:00.000-04:00

K’uei-skeleton Demons— resemble skeletons except that their skulls are fronted with demonic faces, are angry, evil, members of I.M.P.S. and live in China.

Kin— related to, of the same family.

Kleine— a yeti who is the wife of Big Foot and mother of Große Füße; name means ‘small’ in German and is pronounced Klina.

Kobolds— small men, about two feet tall, extremely old looking, with long hair, beard, and mustaches; clothed in green bushes, have skinny arms and skinny legs, shoes curl up at the toe. They are a people who love making homes homey. House Regent Micks, the head cook, is one.

Kokoler— bubbly drink made by carbonating flower nectar, invented by Bubbles.

Kurort— a milky white water that cures wounds, in Jacuzzi like holes; German for ‘place of cure’.

Labyrinth— a system of many twisting passages or paths out of which it is hard to find one’s way, a maze.

Laeh Ot— a gift from the One that allows a being to heal another.

Lake Nymphs— also known as naiads that live in, preside over, and give perpetuity to lakes, rivers, springs, and fountains.

Lake People— a village of lake nymphs of the West Coast Sect also known as naiads who live in, preside over, and give perpetuity to lakes, rivers, springs, and fountains.

Lebab— a gift from the One that unites languages.

Leprechaun— about one foot in height, about the height of an alley cat. They dress all in green, with the leather aprons, tiny buckled shoes, and red hats. They are cobblers (shoemakers). Brogan is one.

Leucanthemum Superbum— a cadet wildflower limoniade nymph and roommate of Mellie, a member of the S.E., nicknamed Lizzy; name derived from the wildflower, which she resembles: a robust daisy-like white flower with a yellow central disk, also known as Shasta Daisy or Elizabeth. Elizabeth’s mother, Esther Read is also named Leucanthemum Superbum but after a different flower--although it, too, is a white flower with a yellowish core, it looks more like a mum than a daisy.

Liaison— a contact being between military units and fantastical beings throughout the world, one who solves problems and gives wise solutions to beings whom he/she visits.

Lilith— a witch who impersonated a Chosen, leader of the I.M.P.S., caused the German gold dragons extinction; name means ‘belonging to the night, queen of darkness’.

Lily, Day— a trainee garden perennial limoniade nymph on the blue team, named after the flower she represents; name means ‘purity’; Latin name Hemerocallis ‘Ruffled Apricot’.

Limoniades— nymphs of meadows and flowers.

Louise— the didasko Amazon who teaches Self-Defense and First-Aid at the West Coast Sect, also instructs the S.E. in special mind action classes, also known as Lou; name means ‘famous warrior, protectress, watchful one’.

Encyclopedia: M-O

2007-10-09T23:26:00.001-04:00

Manipulative— changes to suit one’s purpose or advantage, to manage or influence by artful or devious skill, a deceiver, a liar.

Master— rank of one that is the highest in his/her trade.

Medusa— a gorgon I.M.P. Sorceress who changed many beings into statues.

Maryellen Goodwin— the Chosen trainee homo sapiens also known as Mellie; name means ‘bitter', but also means 'light', 'wise' and 'blessed’.

Merfolk— not nymphs, they are half human and half fish with pearly white skin, and bleached white hair, eyes various shades of blue; extremely beautiful and vain, kin to elves.

Micks— House Regent of the West Coast Sect; name sounds like ‘mix’.

Mellie— a Chosen trainee homo sapiens, also known as Maryellen; name means ‘bitter', but also means 'light', 'wise' and 'blessed’.

Mind Action— gift from the one that use your mind instead of your body, need specialized training to learn. Some are: pushing, pulling, stopping, reaching, carrying, seeing, blinding.

Mindspeak— speaking into another’s mind with out verbalizing a sound; how dragons communicate; a gift of the One: Dnes Eciov, allows a being to do this.

Musk Deer— primitive looking deer about the size of a medium-sized dog, large oval ears, an arched back, and long hind limbs; resemble a furry cross between a rabbit and a kangaroo; males have huge teeth that stick out like a saber-toothed leopard; males also have musk glands for which they are hunted. Musk is used in many perfumes and medicines.

N.E.A.T. Station— New Enlistee Aptitude Testing Station

Nagas— handsome Snakemen, half-human and half-male (related to gorgons); I.M.P.S.; live in Bhogavati.

Naiads— lake people, nymphs who live in, preside over, and give perpetuity to lakes, rivers, springs, and fountains; usually have the coloring of algae, the plant that grows abundantly in lakes.

Nailhead Spar Crystal— calcite prismatic crystals that form in caves; look like nail heads.

Nymph— a fantastical being that is humanoid but colored and marked according to the thing they represent: oreades are gray like rocks, oceanides are colored like sea creatures and plants, limoniades are colored like plants, dryads look like branches of different trees, hamadryads resemble different species of trees.

Oath— a solemn appeal to God to witness one’s determination to speak the truth or to keep a promise; the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Oath is as follows: I hereby swear to uphold the duties of the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. with honor and honesty. I shall live by the Creed. I shall be willing to die for the Creed. I will be a beacon of light in the darkest hour. I will help free those who are persecuted by the darkness. I join the F.A.I.R.I.E.S. of my own free will.

Oceanide Nymph Suit— the suits that oceanides wear; posses scales for gliding through the water and protection from the cold.

Oceanide— sea nymphs; nymphs of the ocean; usually have the coloring and markings of the sea animal or plant that they represent; Spike is an oceanide.

Oreades— nymphs that resemble rocks; live in mountains; are gray colored.

Ot Leah— a gift from the One that helps a being heal another.

Ot Terpretni— a gift from the One that helps a being understand other languages.

Oxmen— members of the I.M.P.S., bottom half of men and top half of oxen.

Encyclopedia: P-R

2007-10-08T23:48:00.000-04:00

Parastichopus Californicus Class Holothuroidea— Spike, the oceanide’s formal name, refers to the cucumber shaped (nudibranch, sea lemon, navanax) sea creature he resembles.

Pegasi— flying horses; may be light or dark.

Peonage— a person held in servitude to work off debts, indentured servant, slave, one that must do as his master bids—no matter how evil the deed may be.

Pixie— related to nymphs, they are flying beings that resemble different insects such as butterflies and fireflies; use pixie dust for magical pranks in order to 'teach lessons'; had a falling out with the F.A.I.R.I.E.S.; can be light or dark.

Pugil Stick— combat stick for training purposes; made of wood with ends covered in ocean sponge.

Pull— a mind action gift to bring things or beings toward a being.

Pumice— volcanic ash.

Push— a mind action gift to send things or beings away from a being.

Rainbow Nymph— a very mysterious nymph family, excellent in the art of being inconspicuous, have golden eagle wings on their backs, sparrow wings on their feet, rainbow colored eyes, and various shades of skin tone; Iris is a rainbow nymph.

Reach— a mind action gift that helps a being get to, touch or get a hold of, stretch or hold out, establish communication, influence, and stretch.

Redcap— member of I.M.P.S.; nasty goblins with fiery red eyes, red capped heads, pointed iron boots, sharp beaks, and hawkish talons.

Regnans, family of Myrtaceae— Master of Arms for the West Coast Sect, British dryad nymph who brings Mellie into the F.A.I.R.I.E.S.; a eucalyptus dryad; name derived from one of the many forms of eucalyptus or myrtaceae.

Ria Retaw— a gift of oceanides that allows beings to breathe underwater.

‘Rikk— the leading tribe of elves that rule from the elfin seat.

Rukh— dark creature; huge blackbird; large enough for a human to ride; natural enemy of dragons.

Encyclopedia: S-U

2007-10-07T00:02:00.000-04:00

S.E.— the Squad Elite: Mellie, Elizabeth, Zandra, Spike, and Große; a team trained secretly by Didasko Lou.

Scar— the fire salamander that helps Mellie.

Sea Nymph— oceanide; naiad; nymphs of the ocean; usually have the coloring and markings of the sea animal or plant that they represent; Spike is sea nymph.

Sea Serpent— approximately 30 feet long with poisoned fangs, necks about 2 feet wide; an I.M.P. Sorcerer that one would do best to stay away from.

See— a mind action gift that allows a being to see things far away or another being that they think about.

Sequoia Sempervirens— the hamadryad redwood tree that jokingly names Mellie, 'Good Wind'; named from the giant redwood that it resembles.

Shaman Sorcerers— evil human males, like witches, belong to the I.M.P.S.; abundant in Asia.

Sheagleon— the didasko sphinx who tests Mellie; she is a high ranking didasko; name derived from: she, meaning ‘female woman'; eagle; and leon, another name for lion.

Snakemen— also known as nagas; handsome, half-human and half-male (related to gorgons). I.M.P.S.

Sorcerers— users of magic through the aid of evil spirits with the intent to harm others.

Sphinx— tri-mammal: head, hands, and torso of a human; wings and feathers of an eagle; hind legs, teeth, and tail of a lion. These beings are notoriously dark, yet can be turned to the light. Sheagleon is a light Sphinx.

Spike— member of the S.E., oceanide, also known as Parastichopus Californicus Class Holothuroidea; nicknamed Spike because of the talon shaped spikes that protrude from his body.

Sponsor— guide, one who vouches for another, one who is responsible for another being; Elizabeth is Mellie’s sponsor in the West Coast Sect, and Blaise is Mellie’s sponsor in the dragon aerie.

Squadmember— belonging to the squads of fantastical beings that protect others and free them.

Squads— military group of fantastical beings.

Stop— a mind action gift that can freeze another being, action, or object in place.

Strateuma— leader of a F.A.I.R.I.E.S. Sect; Greek word that means leader.

Stratovolcano— a type of volcano that has had repeated eruptions and has left layers of volcanic materials built-up on top of each other, forming a mountain. The magma within this type of volcano is thick and highly gaseous, making it an explosive volcano. It violently erupts and causes hazards from the magma flow as well as from the debris that it shoots into the atmosphere.

Sub-Light Way— a gremlin invention that allows beings to travel just under the speed of light.

Swim Through Earth— didasko gnome that teaches geology and geography for the West Coast Academy; Native American Indian named from the way a gnome travels.

Treant— also known as a hamadryad; nymphs that are tree-shaped and protect the forests and woods that they reside in, native language: treespeak, usually only reveal themselves to dryads and other hamadryads.

Treespeak— the language that hamadryads and dryads use to communicate; sounds like the wind rustling leaves.

Trolls— members of I.M.P.S., these ugly, large, stupid beings roam hillsides and mountains in search of beings to eat.

Utility Survival Outfits— or USO’s are squadmember clothes that are stronger and sturdier than a beings usual outfit; look similar to a being’s natural camouflage (or a forest pattern for beings without a natural camouflage).

Encyclopedia: V-Z

2007-10-06T00:15:00.000-04:00

Veda— the centaur archivist at the West Coast Sect; name means ‘sacred knowledge, wisdom, dwelling in the Spirit’.

Violet— the wildflower limoniade nymph who gives away information while not practicing inconspicuousness as a blue team member; named from the wildflower she represents.

Wisteria— the Asian vine limoniade nymph who partners with Mellie for self-defense class; named from the purple flowering vine: Chinese Wisteria.

Witch— a human, esp. a woman, who professes or is supposed to practice sorcery; Lilith is a witch.

Yeti— large, hairy, ape-like beings; usually shy and recluse; members of F.A.I.R.I.E.S.

Yves— didasko elf who teaches Basic History and Basic Fantastical Beings at West Coast Academy; name means ‘archer’.