Recent Reviews for Leann Marshall
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The Starfish People (Hard Cover) (Book) - 1/10/2009 10:50:06 AM
A Bittersweet Exceptional Debut Novel
After years of being haunted by a recurring nightmare where she is drowning, Sera Muir's life is an empty shell. The nightmare is unrelenting and repeated therapy has proven to be unsuccessful. Sera moves through life without meaning, unable to hold anything more than a menial job. Her one promising relationship for love and happiness is doomed due to her water phobia caused by her all consuming dream.
Sera is convinced by Dr. Moore, her therapist, that perhaps her dream is not a dream but rather a memory - a memory of a drowning in a previous life. In the year 2202, science has advanced such that one has the ability to trace their life energy signature back in time. Dr. Moore identifies Sera's past life signature in a woman named Melissa James.
Through research, they discover that Melissa dies in a drowning accident which is the likely cause of Sera's nightmare. An experimental procedure, Kinetic Regression Travel, may allow Sera to return back in time to witness what happens to Melissa so that she can finally break free of the hold this nightmare has on her.
However, for her journey to be successful, Sera must be extremely careful to only observe events of the past and not interfere with them or the result may be catastrophic. Desperate for finding meaning and searching for a way forward, Sera agrees. Ironically, after traveling back to 1973, for perhaps the first time in her life, Sera is anything but an observer. In fact, in a period of only a couple of days, Sera connects so deeply with those she meets, she begins to finally live life. The ultimate choice she makes and its impact transforms herself and those around her.
The Starfish People by Leann Marshall is a beautifully written novel. The characters are marvelously developed and lovingly conveyed to the reader as if paying tribute to their tragic lives. I was moved by each of them and haunted by the bittersweet ending. Marshall's insights into the human condition are thoughtfully written. One of my favorite quotes comes from Willie:
"Maybe you understand why somebody is the way they is, and maybe you don't understand them at all. But folks all got their own ways about them - good and bad. And that's all there is to it in this life, you know. We all just trying to find our way."
It is only through her past, that Sera finds her way.
Not only did I enjoy reading this novel, but I found myself frequently thinking about it's characters, themes, and what might have been, making it clear to me why this novel was awarded a 2008 IPPY Silver Medal. This is an extremely good debut novel and Marshall proves she is a very capable author.
I suppose my one complaint would be that I longed for more. The novel is a brief 138 pages and I know that I could have spent even more time in Marshall's world. If you like novels from Oprah's book club, put this one on your shelf. You will grow and care about the characters more than those in House of Sand and Fog (Oprah's Book Club) (Vintage Contemporaries) and the outcome will be more satisfying than Drowning Ruth. I anxiously await the release of Leann Marshall's next offering.
The Starfish People (Trade Paperback) (Book) - 8/31/2008 8:12:48 PM
The Starfish People is an amazing story; it kept me up until late at night. I couldn't put it down. As a science fiction/fantasy fan, your book ranks as one of my favorites. I'm a relatively new author with AuthorsDen and have been working hard at my craft like everyone else out there. I appreciate your talent and dedication and look forward to connecting with other amazing writers.
Thank you, Donelle Knudsen
The Starfish People (Trade Paperback) (Book) - 8/13/2008 4:50:42 PM
Dear Leann :
Congratulations on your receiving the 2008 IPPY Award For Excellence In Independant Publishing. The award is well deserved.
You are really making in-roads and are carving out a spot for your
hard work.
Seeing what writers like you and others are accomplishing helps to give me the drive to achieve also.
Liked the story on your book signing, must have been a great feeling.
I haven't really added any poetry or blogs for the last few months because I have been working on a book poetry, mainly about the memories through out the early years of my life. I have submited my work to Xlibris, and I signed on to a package too. Of course, naturally at some point there will be a book about the later years too. And of course I want to write another book of poetry similar to Lighthouse Rainbows. So I guess you can say I have my hands full.
I have received much encouragement from Authorsden writers, especially from you and Rosamarie Skaine, and I appreciate it very much.
Anyhow, again I want to offer congratulations for your tremendous success in your books and writing, keep up the good work.
Sincerely,
Stephen Pollard
The Starfish People (Trade Paperback) (Book) - 8/13/2008 1:55:00 PM
Leann Marshall’s “The Starfish People” is such a wonderful writing, (recognized for excellence as the Independent Publisher Books Awards’ Silver Medal Winner); one must ask just what it was that could have possibly won the gold? A truly compelling read leaving behind an “energy signature” all its own. Enjoy *****__J. M. Humperjohn
Reading-What Good Is It? (Article) - 9/10/2009 6:26:42 PM
I've always heard that reading is what makes smart children.
I for one grew up in a small house with my 6 siblings, my parents and my grandfather. I loved reading because it took me away from the noisy, crowded, chaotic environment to far-away places full of mystery and excitment. I just love when it rains and I can curl up with a good book and a cup of tea.
Authors--Tell Us About Your Book! (Article) - 9/10/2009 6:12:57 PM
Leann,
Thank you for the Coffeehouseforum. I liked the fact that I didn't have to create and account and I didn't have to log in.
I went to your website, and was able to join in and read and post comments with ease.
Simple, easy, perfect!
Linda Wolf
Melding of Imaginations (Article) - 5/27/2009 10:53:12 AM
Leanne,
That is excellent! I'm really impressed with your YouTube video trailer. I should do something similar for my book, eh?
Job Well DONE!
Melding of Imaginations (Article) - 5/22/2009 11:28:26 AM
Leann :
As I said in my previous comment postings,
you are definately well on your way be being
a household name in recognition of all of your
many talents.
I am cheering your success's
Stephen Pollard
Melding of Imaginations (Article) - 5/22/2009 9:24:54 AM
Way to go Leann and I definatley will check it out.
hugs
fee
Authors--Tell Us About Your Book! (Article) - 4/15/2009 1:52:33 PM
Sounds like a great new feature Leanne, look forward to browsing this in the future...
Fee
Reading-What Good Is It? (Article) - 4/14/2009 2:24:11 PM
It could be true that the sales of books are down...however; reading will always be a wonderful outlet for people of all ages!! Great blog...and good to hear from you Leann.. hugs, lindalaw
Reading-What Good Is It? (Article) - 4/14/2009 1:56:41 PM
I agree with you 100% on this one and to me it was also my high school, my college and my Masters degree for all the learning I ever received was from the books I read and continue to read at evey chance I get.
hugs
Fee
One Writer's Journey (Article) - 4/6/2009 6:00:41 PM
Hello Leann,
Fabulous article and so true. Todd Fonseca, is a tireless crusader for all us authors. We no longer need to do it alone, and I too highly recommend Todd's site as a must visit!
Happy promoting, Stuart
One Writer's Journey (Article) - 4/6/2009 4:38:13 PM
Leann,
Thanks for the referral to Todd Fonseca, I'll certainly check it out. I'm noticing how I'm becoming more open to help from others. Still a long way to go. Although I've had a website for years, for my workshop business, and I've always written, occasionally placing articles on sites other than my own, now - as a newly published, first-time author - I'm really starting to learn about the world of online social networking. Or at least getting my feet wet, maybe almost ankle deep so far. (How the world has changed since I first moved from writing in notebooks to using a typewriter!)
Thanks for being a cheerleader, and encouraging us to expand our knowledge and reminding us to help others, too!
Diana
Confessions of an Author's First Book Signing (Article) - 4/5/2009 9:52:19 AM
As a new author, I so appreciate hearing author's stories about book signings! My first (and only, so far) was well attended - by friends! Now I'm scheduled for events in St. Louis and Miami Beach, Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando in Florida. The different stores are providing vastly different levels of promotion - from website postings and emails, and a poster in the store window for weeks prior (yippee!) to "we'll just announce it when you're here."
Since they're all places where I'll be anyway, seems like terrific opportunities to publicize not just the book but the workshops I lead.
Thanks for the reminder to stand up and to not despair!
~ Diana
Writers Beware--Scams Abound! (Article) - 3/19/2009 2:38:59 PM
You are so right Leann there are so many people out there so willing to take advantage of a writer's pride in their work and the desire to succeed. The bottom line though in getting published or any further adaptions of your work if they ask for money than they are not legitimate
Fee
Taking Back America (Article) - 9/21/2008 6:17:06 PM
This is my constant feeling when it comes to voting... after so many years of seeing things continue to go further down the tubes, It just pains me to see others not care enough to WANT TO MAKE THEIR VOTE COUNT.... IT MATTERS!!!! thanks Leeann.. good push here.. lindalaw
Taking Back America (Article) - 9/21/2008 3:08:03 PM
Leann, What a great article and thanks for reminding us of our responsibility to get to the voting booth, or to send in our mail-in ballots. I look forward to Election Day 2008. My father helped to instill so many values in my brother and me; one of which was the importance of voting. We can make a difference for present and future generations.
Sketch Notes...A New and Creative Seasonal Page (Article) - 9/18/2008 5:33:51 PM
Leann :
Both of your projects are an excellence
in artistic creativity.
Very well done.
Stephen Pollard
Confessions of an Author's First Book Signing (Article) - 4/26/2008 1:09:30 PM
You gave a great account of what a book signing is really like. I love your writing style-so very descriptive. I loved all the details.
Sincerely,
Stephanie
Confessions of an Author's First Book Signing (Article) - 3/29/2008 6:14:26 PM
Thank you for this insightful rendition of your experience. I know this will be useful to so many of us here. I'm still looking forward to picking up and reading one of those autographed copies at the store.
Confessions of an Author's First Book Signing (Article) - 3/29/2008 4:42:03 PM
Leann, I know this story and I could have co written it with you, I remember my first book signing I did at Chapters and was so impressed when I showed up to see my table and chair, a huge colour poster announcing my book and I and the stack of books that I thought would hardly be enough and ironically I think that I sold ten myself that day. However maybe our presence does affect sales of all books so we can smile and know we do our parts.
hugs
Fee
About The Starfish People (Article) - 3/22/2008 8:34:37 AM
Thanks for sharing this article. It had valuable helps.
Angela Doreathy Allen Glass Watkins
Pushing the Envelope, or--I Was a Charm School Dropout (Article) - 3/8/2008 11:56:14 AM
Leann :
Yes, at that time in our lives, whether, we were male or female,
all of us went through some trial or tribulation of turning the
corner, becoming 13, and experiencing the beginning of our chaotic
teenager years.
Of course, some experiences were good, some so-so, and some horribly
awful, maybe scarred abit too. Oh yes, I have a few tales from that time to. My "Retro Poetry" book is going to cover a few of the more
memorable points in verse(he he).
Yes, I do have a few I can tell, especially, being an otherwise quiet
young man, I could my teenager attitude on a bit (he he).
Keep up the good writing, you're going to make a name for yourself in the writing world.
Stephen Pollard
Pushing the Envelope, or--I Was a Charm School Dropout (Article) - 1/19/2008 9:50:49 AM
Hi Leann.
Well my dear you have read my intro and probably my web site. So I think I can claim to have, as you put it "Pushed the envelope" (Just a little!!!)
I thought for a long time that I was the only trans person in the world!Scary? YES. Impossible? NO.
My transition had it's moments. But Real true friends were always on hand to help out, and some from the most unlikely places/groups.
However push the envelope I did. "Lynne" is a very happy and contented person with less medical problems now than I had previously.
Strength to your hands and mind, may you continue with your writing.
Regards.
Lynne
Pushing the Envelope, or--I Was a Charm School Dropout (Article) - 1/12/2008 7:09:18 PM
At least I’ve learned to “push the envelope” for myself just a little once in awhile. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and what comes easy for some certainly doesn’t for everyone.
You express wise thoughts in your write, Leann. Thank you for sharing. Love and peace to you,
Regis
New Year Cheer--or Fear? (Article) - 11/24/2007 10:45:49 AM
Thank you for sharing this informative and helpful article, Leann. Love and peace to you,
Regis
New Year Cheer--or Fear? (Article) - 11/12/2007 3:56:32 PM
Karla,
Of course you're NOT crazy! Although I don't have a true phobia, I have bouts of anxiety that are sometimes hard to deal with. Relaxation techniques help me. People are different and have to find ways to cope that work for them. I wish you could find a local group (free) who does this, so that when you are suffering through a storm you would have something to fall back on.It certainly isn't easy, I know! Good luck.
Leann
New Year Cheer--or Fear? (Article) - 11/12/2007 1:18:36 PM
Suffering from keraunophobia and brontophobia (fear of lightning and thunder), this one is a little hard. If a sudden storm comes, it's a little hard to relax and find a self help group. Many think I'm crazy. Living in Texas (Tornado Alley) doesn't help...if I had the money to get professional help, psychotherapy or move, I would!!!!!!
(((HUGS))) and love, Karla.
Holiday Haiku (Poetry) - 11/30/2009 2:05:20 PM
A most timely write as appropriate now as it was a year ago. Thank you, Leann. Love and best wishes,
Regis
November Now (Poetry) - 11/25/2009 3:13:35 PM
I like this very much.
Just Wanted You To Know (Poetry) - 11/23/2009 4:11:33 PM
A loving tribute to your dad! He sounds like he was a great guy...M
Truth (Poetry) - 11/23/2009 4:09:01 PM
To look with in and see the whys and where fores is hard to do at times. This poem gives one much to think about!!!m
November Now (Poetry) - 11/14/2009 5:59:24 AM
but "'Ere frost from Winter's kiss" cannot still the memories of children laughing and having fun in the piles of leaves in almost every yard, or the fun they have at Thanksgiving. November is a very special month where I live because it is the actual beginning of freezing cold...lol. But even that freezing cold cannot chill the warmth in my heart for all the memories through the years of the fun I have had as a small child in Michigan's U.P. during the snows of November in northern Michigan.
May the Lord Jesus bless you, and those whom you love, and who love you, and be with you always, and at your side constantly. With much love in my heart, joy to the world, peace on earth, & ((((((((((MANY WONDERFUL SISTERLY HUGGGGSSSS)))))))))), your den sister, Barbie.
Truth (Poetry) - 11/14/2009 5:52:10 AM
Thank you Leann for this very deep, look into ourselves piece. Like Reg said it makes us think...and that is a good thing.
May the Lord Jesus bless you, and those whom you love, and who love you, and be with you always, and at your side constantly. With much love in my heart, joy to the world, peace on earth, & ((((((((((MANY WONDERFUL SISTERLY HUGGGGSSSS)))))))))), your den sister, Barbie.
Truth (Poetry) - 11/12/2009 5:48:06 PM
Leann :
These verses make us look deep inside ourselves.
Leann, you are a woman of great wisdom
Best wishes always,
Stephen Pollard
Truth (Poetry) - 11/11/2009 7:16:11 PM
lovely writing!
Truth (Poetry) - 11/11/2009 3:13:52 PM
Leann your words in verse always have a way of making me feel...not always easily done but something that is always good for the soul. I love this one and it is truly amazing writing.
hugs
fee
Truth (Poetry) - 11/11/2009 1:58:05 PM
These verses have given me pause for refleciton, Leann. Love and best wishes,
Regis
Beautiful Mother (Poetry) - 10/29/2009 5:57:17 PM
This is so very special Leann!
You are so blessed, and highly
favored. "Beautiful Mother" speaks
volumes of the person that you are
raised by your virturous mother! Thanks
Leann for sharing and caring!
Much Love
Margaret
Imaginings (Poetry) - 10/24/2009 4:42:27 AM
Oh to surrender to the sweetness of the subconscious and drift along in a peaceful state of mind! Your poem captures it all so well!...M
November Now (Poetry) - 10/24/2009 4:38:21 AM
The poem is soft and harmonic with wonderful images of fall and love...M
November Now (Poetry) - 10/19/2009 1:58:17 AM
Beautifully captured, Leann
Blather... (Poetry) - 10/1/2009 5:43:04 AM
Thank you for sharing your wit and humor, Leann. Love and best wishes,
Regis
November Now (Poetry) - 10/1/2009 5:40:00 AM
A lovely apt and timely offering, Leann. Thank you for sharing this gift. Love and best wishes to you,
Regis
Imaginings (Poetry) - 9/24/2009 7:16:19 PM
wonderful!
November Now (Poetry) - 9/24/2009 7:15:09 PM
a beautiful write for the season!
November Now (Poetry) - 9/3/2009 3:30:26 AM
Wonderful write dear Leann, thank you for sharing as this is my favorite time of the year.
Newfie Hugs, Rose
November Now (Poetry) - 9/1/2009 1:57:00 PM
Very nicely done...
fee
November Now (Poetry) - 9/1/2009 9:52:35 AM
Lovely Poem!
November Now (Poetry) - 9/1/2009 8:38:33 AM
Leann,
This was so beautiful about the love of most beautiful season when the ground is askew with colorful leaves.
Mary
The Family Album (Poetry) - 8/31/2009 2:57:00 AM
I enjoyed this sad but excellent written and felt poem Leann!
Easy "sad" but hopeful write!
YOU write beautifully and fruitfully, WRITE MORE!
WRITE ON!
Blessings and Peace, Purple_Passions, SHEExooo
A Fisherman's Prayer (Poetry) - 8/11/2009 4:31:25 PM
BEAUTIFULLY Said Leann
Beautifully said and felt!
Amen!
I hope many Fisherman KNOW this! and KEEP their HOPE and FAITH STRONG!
I"m glad "YOU" wrote it and felt every word to say it!
God Bless Them!
WRITE ON!
Purple_PassionS, SHEExooo
For Mama (Poetry) - 7/24/2009 1:17:12 PM
I see a beautiful lavender iris swaying in the breeze. Lovely verse. Donelle
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