Wanted: Dead or Alive Tayson The Harbinger

On notes of love: Terry-Ann now has “Three Lucky Stones,” a clear pendent that is surrounded by diamonds encased within its clear surface lies three matched diamonds, a perfect Valentine's Day present from “yours truly.”

However, enough about sentiment and tradition, roses, hearts, cupid and his quiver of love arrows. It is time to present the offerings of our authors to our readers, which is a love affair in and of itself.

Scribal Tales – Valentine – 2008 presents, for your reading pleasure the following:

The Pretentious Twit:

Michael Battaglia has never failed our loyal readers by producing a critique and/or review (take your pick) of Gustavo Bondoni's, “Growing Pains in the Womb.” Michael's in-depth review of his likes and dislikes of Gustavo's science fiction story will enhance your understanding of traditional science fiction writing (and reading). While you may not agree with Michael's thoughts on the subject, you can surely recognize that the effort he puts into the “Pretentious Twit” is a task of love, that of writing and effort. Well done, Michael. You are truly appreciated. I'll ask the author and our readers to send Michael comments on his review, tell him of your likes and dislikes. I'm sure he will respond to your emails.

Tales of the Halfling, Chapter 2 by Gabe Morales: Welcome back to an old friend who has not been heard from for quite sometime, the Halfling Hadrian. When last seen or heard from, Hadrian barely escaped from death, delivered in the form of Sithera, a noble assassin. Hadrian seeks sanctuary in a branch of the Scribal Priesthood, a stronghold, impenetrable to the outside world – or is it?

Death and the Minstrel by Tala Bar: Talk about synchronicity – well, I am going to talk about it. A news flash from the Catholic Diocese of Queens: Finbar Middle School was ordered permanently closed on the same day that Tala Bar informed me that her beloved character, Finbar the Minstrel was going to heaven to meet his maker. Yes, Finbar was an actual saint. It is said that the sun did not set for two weeks after he died in the year 633. Moreover, his passing from Scribal Tales saddens us, but Tala Bar has written a beautiful ending to one of our favorite characters.

Rest easy, you fair white haired minstrel, you will always have a warm tavern filled with onlookers who admire your tales, fill your cup and place a gold coin in your money pouch. You will be missed, be you saint or sinner.

Poor Zorulas – Zorulas Rebound by Brendan Davis: Poor Zorulas is a loveable but misguided warrior, over-the-hill but does not know it. Brendan Davis expands his introductory tale with a political mission – Alas, Poor Zorulas is a fish out of water, but the characters in this fantasy story are taking on a life of their own.

Water Born by William Reaves. You are simply going to love this story. I know I did. Professionally written, submitted and discussed between the author and this editor, I felt chosen to be able to publish this story. It is our Valentine's Tale of the Month. A new author graces our web site. William Reaves offers our readers a science fiction love story. Professor Theodore Jenkins is a character with depth (in many ways) and formula lEl-327 can change the world in which we live but love will change Professor Jenkins forever.

Shared World Tales:

Amazon Women under Volante by Joel Weichs:

Marcus Exeter sells maps – treasure maps to be more precise. His store is located somewhere in Volante. Its exact location is unknown, as treasure map selling has built into it some rather dangerous, sometimes unhappy, customers. One day, Carrie – leader of the infamous Carrie's Raiders – yes, the very same – seeks a map drawn by the assassin Ginger Sadowa. Joel tends to play this one tongue-in-cheek, and makes for an enjoyable readable tale.

Odan the Scribe – Chapter 13 – Fragments by Daniel Olarnick :

As the author of this tale, I find it difficult to get the unnamed scribe (Odan) the mongrel (Bijou – The Terrible Howling Beast), Ebon Grupe (The Accursed) and Utre (Prince of Trolls) to the Black Dragon Inn, where they will be able to meet an operative, give up their burden of carrying the Crystal Skull and part ways – that is unless Utre takes the scribe's life. Chapter 13 finds Karl Strange on a rescue mission. The village of Trent is under attack by orcs and night stalkers (and odd combination, no doubt). It is the last step in a tale that has had multiple lives.

Review: I think you will find the review by William Avett well written. I have decided to include it in the Scribe's Gazette with the hope that additional reviews are forth coming from our subscribers.

Scribal Letters: Crossing Dragons Canyon by Ashley Hibbert
Reviewer: William Avett

I really enjoyed the active writing style that placed the reader into an unusual setting in some far off land.  The description of the heights leads one to interesting imagery that enhances the story progression.

However, I did have some difficulty understanding the circumstances, a monastery on one side, a ship below, a two-headed dragon on the other with blood running from its mouth.  I was left with some confusion as to the purpose.  What was going on?  Was this a pilgrimage on a strange dragon, whose one head had evidently consumed someone? 

Perhaps the author's intent was to leave the reader guessing, and this reviewer can understand that.  Overall, an interesting story that left this reader in inquisitive mystery.

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Therefore, in keeping with Valentine's Day, I hope you love this issue.