Reviews for Our Books:
|
The Power of Seven is an introduction to the Creative Process as detailed in It's Your Move! |
This audio offers a testimonia for It's Your Move! by the late Delisia LeMons, founder of The Eagle Connection. |
It's Your Move! Transform Your Dreams From Wishful Thinking To Reality
Available as a 5 CD audio book.
"The collaborative effort of John Dean & Dannye Williamsen, It's Your Move!: Transform Your Dreams From Wishful Thinking To Reality will enable anyone to build a solid foundation upon which to establish quality of life changes and dramatically improved decision making. This outstanding audiobook presentation offers a practical, effective approach to the events, problems, and routines of daily life in a manner that will enable motivated men and women to transform their unfocused, uninspired, and unfulling lives into dramatic, passionate, creative, appreciative experiences and relationships.
Technically flawless CD production values showcase the seven rules to making dreams a reality along with the twelve vital tools available to perform just such transitions. If you have time for only one self-help, self-improvement instructional, then make it John Dean and Dannye Williamsen's It's Your Move!" — James A. Cox, Senior Editor, The Midwest Book Review
"It's Your Move! is the most comprehensive offering in New Thought in decades!" -- K. Diehl, Listener
This is the FIRST, the ONLY, self-help program I have ever found to be motivational. The more I listen, the more I learn, the more motivated I am to transform my dreams into reality and to spread my spiritual wings and fly!" — Penny White, Magazine Editor
“Authors John Dean and Dannye Williamsen teach us how to consume life, not be consumed by it!" — Richard Fuller, Senior Editor, Metaphysical Reviews
"It would be difficult to find another approach to self-transformation that is this pragmatic. The Williamsens integrate goal setting with esoteric interpretations of the Creation Story and the disciples from the Bible. It is a stimulating approach that provokes within you a new relationship to the scriptures. You will never be able to look at them again without the psychological implications struggling to rise to the surface for you.
The presentation of the information is given by one of the authors – John Dean Williamsen. His tone is friendly, sometimes humorous, and always sincere. Every time I slid a CD into the player, it was like settling down to call an old friend on the phone. I am used to the rah-rah-sis-boom-bah! approach taken by so many motivational programs, and this was a welcome and rewarding change!
Kudos to Dannye and John Dean Williamsen for their eclectic approach to spiritual growth and their intent." -- J. Thetford, Reviewer
“After plowing through all the authors and publishers in personal growth today, it is a delight to find MindSlap! The depth and the down-to-earth approach that [these two people] have in their writings is refreshing. It’s a mix of tough love and intuitive wisdom that makes me believe in my ability to accomplish whatever I set my mind on.” — W. Delaney, Chicago, IL
Do not be fooled by the title. This is more than simply a business and abundance coaching program, examples of which I have always found hard to stomach. The objective here is Transformation. When something entirely intuitive suggested I give it a listen, I was heartened and relieved to find myself quickly intrigued.
This spiritually-based program is cumulatively and cohesively structured and presented in 5 CDs, by the authors, John Dean and Dannye Williamsen. The content and presentation are accessible, candid and unpretentious. There is a lot of information here, though. At times it felt a bit heady and warranted repeated listening.
It’s Your Move! begins with an overview of the Seven Days (or steps) of Creation from Genesis, and how these metaphorically equate with the stages of any Creative process, which, in humans, can be conscious or unconscious. This program seeks to educate and empower us to make the process – and consequently our lives -- more conscious and positive.
Williamsen professes to have drawn from a number of sources and philosophies in developing the process presented; these include both fundamental and more mystical Christianity, Buddhism, and psychology. However, the insights are predominantly anchored in a refreshing “metaphysical Christianity,” which offers profound and fascinating explanation of Scriptural metaphors.
A wealth of insight and information is offered making the program worth listening regardless listener’s diligence in applying tools provided genuine commitment to self-transformation however might be required listen through all five cd’s. — Michou Landon, Mt. Shasta Magazine
"It's a feast of information to be savored a bite at a time." — Patricia McShane-Gearhart, Rainbow Connections
"It challenges readers to examine obstacles that may be hindering them from the pursuit of their life's dream." — Sigrid MacDonald, author, D'Amour Road
“In my humble opinion, if you are tired of living inside the "box", and you are ready to live out your dreams, this is a great place to start!” — Joel Jackson, Momentum Business Networking
“The Secret is a great resource for those just learning about the Law of Attraction, but... it only scratches the surface. MindSlap! gives you a plan of action to become a conscious creator of your life. It has changed my life and how I try to live it every day. I regard [it] as my Law of Attraction study guide. I learn something new each time...and I know that as I continue on my journey, this book will help me increase my understanding, awareness and appreciation for life.” — Sandy Lomas, Lawrenceville, GA
“The quality of the material and the presentation is really wonderful!” — Patricia Caldwell, Singer/Songwriter, SoundForLife.net
"The collaborative effort of John Dean & Dannye Williamsen, It's Your Move!: Transform Your Dreams From Wishful Thinking To Reality will enable anyone to build a solid foundation upon which to establish quality of life changes and dramatically improved decision making. This outstanding audiobook presentation offers a practical, effective approach to the events, problems, and routines of daily life in a manner that will enable motivated men and women to transform their unfocused, uninspired, and unfulling lives into dramatic, passionate, creative, appreciative experiences and relationships.
Technically flawless CD production values showcase the seven rules to making dreams a reality along with the twelve vital tools available to perform just such transitions. If you have time for only one self-help, self-improvement instructional, then make it John Dean and Dannye Williamsen's It's Your Move!" — James A. Cox, Senior Editor, The Midwest Book Review
"It's Your Move! is the most comprehensive offering in New Thought in decades!" -- K. Diehl, Listener
This is the FIRST, the ONLY, self-help program I have ever found to be motivational. The more I listen, the more I learn, the more motivated I am to transform my dreams into reality and to spread my spiritual wings and fly!" — Penny White, Magazine Editor
“Authors John Dean and Dannye Williamsen teach us how to consume life, not be consumed by it!" — Richard Fuller, Senior Editor, Metaphysical Reviews
"It would be difficult to find another approach to self-transformation that is this pragmatic. The Williamsens integrate goal setting with esoteric interpretations of the Creation Story and the disciples from the Bible. It is a stimulating approach that provokes within you a new relationship to the scriptures. You will never be able to look at them again without the psychological implications struggling to rise to the surface for you.
The presentation of the information is given by one of the authors – John Dean Williamsen. His tone is friendly, sometimes humorous, and always sincere. Every time I slid a CD into the player, it was like settling down to call an old friend on the phone. I am used to the rah-rah-sis-boom-bah! approach taken by so many motivational programs, and this was a welcome and rewarding change!
Kudos to Dannye and John Dean Williamsen for their eclectic approach to spiritual growth and their intent." -- J. Thetford, Reviewer
“After plowing through all the authors and publishers in personal growth today, it is a delight to find MindSlap! The depth and the down-to-earth approach that [these two people] have in their writings is refreshing. It’s a mix of tough love and intuitive wisdom that makes me believe in my ability to accomplish whatever I set my mind on.” — W. Delaney, Chicago, IL
Do not be fooled by the title. This is more than simply a business and abundance coaching program, examples of which I have always found hard to stomach. The objective here is Transformation. When something entirely intuitive suggested I give it a listen, I was heartened and relieved to find myself quickly intrigued.
This spiritually-based program is cumulatively and cohesively structured and presented in 5 CDs, by the authors, John Dean and Dannye Williamsen. The content and presentation are accessible, candid and unpretentious. There is a lot of information here, though. At times it felt a bit heady and warranted repeated listening.
It’s Your Move! begins with an overview of the Seven Days (or steps) of Creation from Genesis, and how these metaphorically equate with the stages of any Creative process, which, in humans, can be conscious or unconscious. This program seeks to educate and empower us to make the process – and consequently our lives -- more conscious and positive.
Williamsen professes to have drawn from a number of sources and philosophies in developing the process presented; these include both fundamental and more mystical Christianity, Buddhism, and psychology. However, the insights are predominantly anchored in a refreshing “metaphysical Christianity,” which offers profound and fascinating explanation of Scriptural metaphors.
A wealth of insight and information is offered making the program worth listening regardless listener’s diligence in applying tools provided genuine commitment to self-transformation however might be required listen through all five cd’s. — Michou Landon, Mt. Shasta Magazine
"It's a feast of information to be savored a bite at a time." — Patricia McShane-Gearhart, Rainbow Connections
"It challenges readers to examine obstacles that may be hindering them from the pursuit of their life's dream." — Sigrid MacDonald, author, D'Amour Road
“In my humble opinion, if you are tired of living inside the "box", and you are ready to live out your dreams, this is a great place to start!” — Joel Jackson, Momentum Business Networking
“The Secret is a great resource for those just learning about the Law of Attraction, but... it only scratches the surface. MindSlap! gives you a plan of action to become a conscious creator of your life. It has changed my life and how I try to live it every day. I regard [it] as my Law of Attraction study guide. I learn something new each time...and I know that as I continue on my journey, this book will help me increase my understanding, awareness and appreciation for life.” — Sandy Lomas, Lawrenceville, GA
“The quality of the material and the presentation is really wonderful!” — Patricia Caldwell, Singer/Songwriter, SoundForLife.net
Metaphysical Minute
"I love your book. It feels like my heart's talking!" — Amber Zain, Alpharetta, GA
“Metaphysical Minute is a deep, spiritual, and insightful collection of essays that will make you think and define how to live your life to the fullest. I absolutely love it!” — Katia Lord, Design Mind Studio
“I would highly recommend reading Metaphysical Minute. It remains one of my favorites. Read it and you’ll understand why.” — Murray Fuhrer, author of Extreme Esteem
“A heartfelt thank you...It is well written, excellent in contents, enjoyable to read, and mental and spiritual nourishment.” — Gustavo (Rio) Meier-Curat, Tannay, Switzerland
"Metaphysical Minute is] different, more profound, just takes you to another level of grasping or connecting with your core. I will reread this book many times. It's actually written in a manner to become a daily guide for staying connected with self and all the core things that matter most.” - Bea Kunz, Sage Hill Farms & Vintage Store
“Metaphysical Minute is a deep, spiritual, and insightful collection of essays that will make you think and define how to live your life to the fullest. I absolutely love it!” — Katia Lord, Design Mind Studio
“I would highly recommend reading Metaphysical Minute. It remains one of my favorites. Read it and you’ll understand why.” — Murray Fuhrer, author of Extreme Esteem
“A heartfelt thank you...It is well written, excellent in contents, enjoyable to read, and mental and spiritual nourishment.” — Gustavo (Rio) Meier-Curat, Tannay, Switzerland
"Metaphysical Minute is] different, more profound, just takes you to another level of grasping or connecting with your core. I will reread this book many times. It's actually written in a manner to become a daily guide for staying connected with self and all the core things that matter most.” - Bea Kunz, Sage Hill Farms & Vintage Store
The Four Cs of Problem-Solving
Available as a CD
“I now use this system provided by John Dean Williamsen to rise above a challenge and resolve it versus allowing my emotions to overtake my valued time and energy. John carefully explains how to put 'The 4 Cs method' into practice and make it a tool one can use daily, both personally and in business, no matter how small or large the challenge.” - Janet Kempe, Kidea, Inc. |
Listen to John Dean Williamsen explain how important a role your problems play in molding your future. |
Second Chances, a novel
Review by Karen Doering, The Parents' Little Black Book
I have read more than a few paranormal novels, and I have to say this is among the best, if not the best, I have read in a long while. The writing is almost electric, you can feel the tension in the air around you as you fall deeper into the abyss of madness the author creates.
Fredrika loves her job as a commodities broker. In fact, she more than loves it, she is totally immersed in the rise and fall of the most risky market there is. Her personal life suffers from lack of time and disinterest in anything but her career. Wrapped tighter than the strings inside a golf ball, she is beginning to feel the tension that precludes a breakdown. Hallucinations follow her while awake, and nightmares haunt her sleep. As an only child whose parents have passed away, she has no known family and only one real friend. She is a woman alone and starting to feel the years slip away from her.
Darian is also alone. Left at birth in an orphanage, he was adopted at age four. But all did not go well. Instead of a loving family, he falls prey to a father who abuses him and a mother who does nothing to stop it. But he has a secret, a secret he keeps hidden. He has power, and at a very young age, he learns to use that power. First to protect himself and later for the sense of well being it gives him. Because he didn't finish his schooling, he has no idea that the very power he so craves is corrupting his body and mind.
As Darian reaches out to the one person he believes will understand him, he finds himself at a crossroad. How does he gain the trust of someone who has never been corrupted? Someone who is appalled at the misuse of supernatural powers. Someone who, for the first time, has the ability to fight back.
Dark, deep and filled with protagonists you can both love and hate, feel sorry for and wish they are defeated, this is the one book I don't think will be easily put aside or forgotten. Once you have read it, you still need time to think about it.
Ms. Williamsen brings her characters to life with depth and dimension. Each character is multi-faceted, coming to life on the page. The narration flows so well it is hardly noticed, and the dialogue is realistic. Beautifully edited and presented, the book is easy to get lost in. I did. I was unable to put it down.
If Amazon had 6 Stars this book would get them from me.
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Review by Annarita Guarnieri, author of Cats: Instructions For Use
I found myself reading Second Chances in a period in which I had precious little time to devote to reading… and after the first few pages I was so hooked that I started carving out every possible moment to go on reading… during meals and even in the bathtub, something I never do for fear of damaging the reader!
Today, I finished the book, and I must confess I did not read the incipit for the following book, Threads that Bind, because I want to be surprised and enchanted again by the dexterity with which Dannye Williamsen manages to bind the reader, both with the plot and with her fluent, rich style, full of beautiful descriptions so well calibrated that they become precious ornaments to the story without suffocating it.
Another gift this book has to offer is the underlying philosophy of the eternal struggle between good and evil, faced here from a new, original perspective, that of two twins, parted at birth and forced by life along totally different paths. Is evil something we are born with? And is there something good even in the most evil person? These are some of the questions Dannye Williamsen addresses in her book, and while she gives, of course, her own answer to them, Second Chances offers the reader the possibility of lingering and pondering on the mystery of ying and yang, present in each of us, but that we often tend to ignore.
Add to all this a plot that verges on horror in a very new way, which reminded me of Dan Simmons’ Carrion Comfort (for Darian has something in common with the “mind vampires” we find there, even if he uses his power in a very self-centered and distorted way) and you have the recipe for the perfect book to keep you company in a long and cold January evening!
A five star book, no doubt!
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Review of two-book series by K.L. Nappier, Author of Full Wolf Moon Trilogy
"Tops among the positives regarding author Dannye Williamsen is how clearly she cares about the art and craft of her storytelling. She plots her dark fiction to reveal deeper spiritual issues even as she entertains her readers. For those who enjoy the writing style of Darcie Chan (The Mill River Recluse), Carmen DeSousa (She Belongs to Me) and metaphysical twists to their reads, Ms. Williamsen will not disappoint."
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Review by Grace Guerra, Book Junkies Library
"This book is out of sight...kicking myself for not reading sooner. It's books like these that show what an Indie is all about."
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Review by JT Kalnay, Author of Mina's Eyes
Dannye Williamsen presents a classic and terrifying battle between good and evil in Second Chances. Fredrika thinks she is losing her mind as unexplained happenings begin to pile up around her. Darian can't explain why Fredrika is so compelling to him. As the mystery and terror grow and grow, Fredrika and Darian identify and then confront the ying and yang of good and evil. The adversaries learn that every heart holds both good and evil, and none of us are willing to destroy any piece of our own heart. Will Fredrika survive her challenges? Will Darian devolve into pure evil? You'll have to read to the very end to find out. And after turning that last page you'll be reaching for the first page of the sequel, The Threads That Bind.
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Review by Sue Palmer, Sue Palmer's Book Reviews
Firstly, this is an excellent paranormal story by Dannye Williamsen. She has a way of captivating her readers with her confident style of writing, easy flow and a very good plot. There are no boring fillers; scenes are described with such expertise that you almost feel that you are there. The editing and grammar, in my opinion, was flawless.
The one thing that struck me about this book was the power. Although, predominately this is a story about a battle between good and evil, the power aspect of it really shone through for me. The two main characters struggled to maintain this in their lives, therefore forcing them to follow a different path in order to try and re-gain control. One good, one evil, both demanding sympathy in different ways. Several times I found myself feeling this and I was questioning why. Again, the power thing- this time the author over the reader.
In the end it became a fight between the characters, Darian and Freddie, which one would win the emotional fight? Who would gain control?
No spoilers here, I recommend you read this book for yourself. However, there is more to this book than meets the eye, in my opinion. On the surface, it is a thoroughly enjoyable, paranormal page turner. Into the mix, the author throws in some romance, action and spine tingling moments. Delve into this book deeper and you will find much more material to study .Food for thought on the psychological aspects of it all, what makes people act in a certain way, different actions, different ways of dealing with things? Does love conquer all or is it power? Well, I recommend you read it and decide for yourself.
To conclude:
Very good storyline, skillfully planned throughout, the author had complete control of her characters at all times, no waffle or straying off the point. The underlying material is there if you want to analyse it; if not, just enjoy the book for what it is. I did!
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Review by Sylvia Massara, author of The Soul Bearers
Second Chances is what I would term a paranormal suspense with a touch of romance. This is a genre that is new to me; at least since I read Anne Rice’s vampire series years ago. But I’m not comparing the two as there are no vampires in this story.
Second Chances is a story of good versus evil. What comes to the fore, however, are the qualities of forgiveness and love.
In this story, the two main characters take totally different paths in life—one goes down the road of good; the other becomes evil. Now most of us would take the stance that the evil one “gets what he deserves”, but in this story we see that love is ever expanding and that not only can it overcome evil, but it can actually transform evil into something that is pure love. In the end, what I took away from this riveting story is that there really is no evil in the universe—there is only love. We all travel down paths of our own making; some of these paths might be good while others might be negative or evil, but in the end there is no condition (whether physical or spiritual) that cannot be transformed by love.
This wonderful story comes with a strong message that while subtle, cannot be dismissed. The story holds the reader spellbound with its tale of paranormal events, evil deeds, suspense, friendship and romance. At the end of the day, however, the message comes through loud and clear. Everything is love; everything can be transformed by love.
I said I wasn’t going to compare this to Anne Rice’s vampire books because this book is not about vampires, but I will say that in Rice’s stories while the reader was held in enthralled suspense about what would happen next, evil usually won the day. In Second Chances, Dannye Williamsen doesn’t allow this to happen. So while I was enthralled, held in suspense and even enchanted—in the end I came away feeling inspired and opening my heart to the fact that love truly does conquer all.
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Review by Sandy Wolters, author of Maggie Mae
5 star review:
Is there really evil in the world? Yes. It goes by the name of Darian.
I want to start out by saying that I am a paranormal junkie. This book, SECOND CHANCES by DANNYE WILLIAMSEN, is so much more than your everyday paranormal read. There are no vampires. There are no werewolves, although there is a wolf, Avatar, with a very interesting back story.
Second Chances has a character, Darian, that is so evil, yet the author found a way to write his story that compels the reader to feel sorrow and sympathy for him. The writing in this book was scintillating!
While reading Ms. Williamsen's story, I found myself on an emotional roller coaster throughout, constantly questioning what it is in my personality that I could sympathize with such evil. There has only been one other character in my 50 plus years that has affected me in such a way.
Wait until you get to the end! There is a life's lesson there for all of us. The nice thing is that the author does not push this lesson on the reader. It unfolds in such a way to get your thought process rolling and take your way of thinking to a higher level.
I highly recommend this book for any book clubs looking for a really good paranormal suspense/paranormal romance.
THIS IS A MUST READ!
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Review by Alex Canton, Book Junkie Reviews
When I have previously read a book for review, I tend to read with an inquisitive eye. After reading a few paragraphs, I encountered a beautiful description of a tree’s insides: “differences in shade between the hollow shells of the trees, barely distinguishable to the eye, created concentric borders.” It was very difficult to take breaks, especially after being introduced to a pattern of swinging between fantasy and reality – sometimes distorted.
I liked Ms. Williamsen’s fluid prose. I am sure the plot was carried superbly. I was swooned by the continuous, almost perfect content. My dear Nora Roberts: Move over!
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Review by Patrick Moloney
If “hating the sin and loving the sinner” is ever taken on as a theme for a serious thesis, then Dannye Williamsen’s Second Chances would present itself as a work of great significance and of utmost importance - and for very many reasons, not least because it stretches out to the very limits, out to the sheer edges, the power of the sinner. This is particularly so in the case of the antagonist, the willful Darian.
The author presents a surreal world closely in contact with the real wherein engagements continue to happen within and without. While this approach challenges credibility, it never displeases. In fact as one enters more and more into the tensions of the story, one becomes more involved, one’s appetite grows wanting to know what will happen and what outcomes could possibly be presented. And while the approach to structure is certainly daring, the writing style is lovely throughout. It is easy. And every now and then little gems appear that sparkle - for instance: “with the ignorance of an insect being eyed by a toad”, and another, when referring to processed coffee as having “an aftertaste as if it had been lightly seasoned with melted plastic”.
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Review by Greta Burroughs, author of Gerald And The Wee People
I am not too much into reading about the paranormal but I am glad I started reading Second Chances. The first few pages hooked me and kept my attention until the last page. Freddie Marsh is haunted by visits from a shadow person and asks the classic question, "why me?" Instead of running from the problem, she tries to find the answer. Darian, the one trying to communicate with Freddie, cannot understand why she is not more accepting of his presence.
On the surface, Second Chances is a classic tale of good verses evil, but as the story progresses, Dannye Williamsen expands that concept so that it is not so cut and dry. There is good/evil in all of us, but it is a personal choice as to which is predominent. The author makes the reader think by taking us through Freddie's struggle of how to handle the power she has always tried to ignore but now has to comes to terms with.
Dannye Williamsen's style of writing is very intriguing and well developed. I like the way she uses descriptive writing to set the scene and make the reader see what is happening and become one with the story. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to read the sequel, The Threads That Bind."
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Review by Lia Fairchild, author of In Search of Lucy
This paranormal romance painted a very unique picture of good vs. evil. Freddie, a seemingly normal financial analyst, is suddenly being haunted and tormented by a dark presence with unexplained intentions. The author does a nice job of creating this villain from the beginning of his existence and actually has the reader torn between hate and pity for him. Good vs. Evil progresses the story, and in the end you’ll find yourself with a new understanding of that very concept. My interest was kept throughout this book, following Freddie trying to uncover the mystery and wondering what would happen next.
I have read more than a few paranormal novels, and I have to say this is among the best, if not the best, I have read in a long while. The writing is almost electric, you can feel the tension in the air around you as you fall deeper into the abyss of madness the author creates.
Fredrika loves her job as a commodities broker. In fact, she more than loves it, she is totally immersed in the rise and fall of the most risky market there is. Her personal life suffers from lack of time and disinterest in anything but her career. Wrapped tighter than the strings inside a golf ball, she is beginning to feel the tension that precludes a breakdown. Hallucinations follow her while awake, and nightmares haunt her sleep. As an only child whose parents have passed away, she has no known family and only one real friend. She is a woman alone and starting to feel the years slip away from her.
Darian is also alone. Left at birth in an orphanage, he was adopted at age four. But all did not go well. Instead of a loving family, he falls prey to a father who abuses him and a mother who does nothing to stop it. But he has a secret, a secret he keeps hidden. He has power, and at a very young age, he learns to use that power. First to protect himself and later for the sense of well being it gives him. Because he didn't finish his schooling, he has no idea that the very power he so craves is corrupting his body and mind.
As Darian reaches out to the one person he believes will understand him, he finds himself at a crossroad. How does he gain the trust of someone who has never been corrupted? Someone who is appalled at the misuse of supernatural powers. Someone who, for the first time, has the ability to fight back.
Dark, deep and filled with protagonists you can both love and hate, feel sorry for and wish they are defeated, this is the one book I don't think will be easily put aside or forgotten. Once you have read it, you still need time to think about it.
Ms. Williamsen brings her characters to life with depth and dimension. Each character is multi-faceted, coming to life on the page. The narration flows so well it is hardly noticed, and the dialogue is realistic. Beautifully edited and presented, the book is easy to get lost in. I did. I was unable to put it down.
If Amazon had 6 Stars this book would get them from me.
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Review by Annarita Guarnieri, author of Cats: Instructions For Use
I found myself reading Second Chances in a period in which I had precious little time to devote to reading… and after the first few pages I was so hooked that I started carving out every possible moment to go on reading… during meals and even in the bathtub, something I never do for fear of damaging the reader!
Today, I finished the book, and I must confess I did not read the incipit for the following book, Threads that Bind, because I want to be surprised and enchanted again by the dexterity with which Dannye Williamsen manages to bind the reader, both with the plot and with her fluent, rich style, full of beautiful descriptions so well calibrated that they become precious ornaments to the story without suffocating it.
Another gift this book has to offer is the underlying philosophy of the eternal struggle between good and evil, faced here from a new, original perspective, that of two twins, parted at birth and forced by life along totally different paths. Is evil something we are born with? And is there something good even in the most evil person? These are some of the questions Dannye Williamsen addresses in her book, and while she gives, of course, her own answer to them, Second Chances offers the reader the possibility of lingering and pondering on the mystery of ying and yang, present in each of us, but that we often tend to ignore.
Add to all this a plot that verges on horror in a very new way, which reminded me of Dan Simmons’ Carrion Comfort (for Darian has something in common with the “mind vampires” we find there, even if he uses his power in a very self-centered and distorted way) and you have the recipe for the perfect book to keep you company in a long and cold January evening!
A five star book, no doubt!
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Review of two-book series by K.L. Nappier, Author of Full Wolf Moon Trilogy
"Tops among the positives regarding author Dannye Williamsen is how clearly she cares about the art and craft of her storytelling. She plots her dark fiction to reveal deeper spiritual issues even as she entertains her readers. For those who enjoy the writing style of Darcie Chan (The Mill River Recluse), Carmen DeSousa (She Belongs to Me) and metaphysical twists to their reads, Ms. Williamsen will not disappoint."
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Review by Grace Guerra, Book Junkies Library
"This book is out of sight...kicking myself for not reading sooner. It's books like these that show what an Indie is all about."
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Review by JT Kalnay, Author of Mina's Eyes
Dannye Williamsen presents a classic and terrifying battle between good and evil in Second Chances. Fredrika thinks she is losing her mind as unexplained happenings begin to pile up around her. Darian can't explain why Fredrika is so compelling to him. As the mystery and terror grow and grow, Fredrika and Darian identify and then confront the ying and yang of good and evil. The adversaries learn that every heart holds both good and evil, and none of us are willing to destroy any piece of our own heart. Will Fredrika survive her challenges? Will Darian devolve into pure evil? You'll have to read to the very end to find out. And after turning that last page you'll be reaching for the first page of the sequel, The Threads That Bind.
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Review by Sue Palmer, Sue Palmer's Book Reviews
Firstly, this is an excellent paranormal story by Dannye Williamsen. She has a way of captivating her readers with her confident style of writing, easy flow and a very good plot. There are no boring fillers; scenes are described with such expertise that you almost feel that you are there. The editing and grammar, in my opinion, was flawless.
The one thing that struck me about this book was the power. Although, predominately this is a story about a battle between good and evil, the power aspect of it really shone through for me. The two main characters struggled to maintain this in their lives, therefore forcing them to follow a different path in order to try and re-gain control. One good, one evil, both demanding sympathy in different ways. Several times I found myself feeling this and I was questioning why. Again, the power thing- this time the author over the reader.
In the end it became a fight between the characters, Darian and Freddie, which one would win the emotional fight? Who would gain control?
No spoilers here, I recommend you read this book for yourself. However, there is more to this book than meets the eye, in my opinion. On the surface, it is a thoroughly enjoyable, paranormal page turner. Into the mix, the author throws in some romance, action and spine tingling moments. Delve into this book deeper and you will find much more material to study .Food for thought on the psychological aspects of it all, what makes people act in a certain way, different actions, different ways of dealing with things? Does love conquer all or is it power? Well, I recommend you read it and decide for yourself.
To conclude:
Very good storyline, skillfully planned throughout, the author had complete control of her characters at all times, no waffle or straying off the point. The underlying material is there if you want to analyse it; if not, just enjoy the book for what it is. I did!
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Review by Sylvia Massara, author of The Soul Bearers
Second Chances is what I would term a paranormal suspense with a touch of romance. This is a genre that is new to me; at least since I read Anne Rice’s vampire series years ago. But I’m not comparing the two as there are no vampires in this story.
Second Chances is a story of good versus evil. What comes to the fore, however, are the qualities of forgiveness and love.
In this story, the two main characters take totally different paths in life—one goes down the road of good; the other becomes evil. Now most of us would take the stance that the evil one “gets what he deserves”, but in this story we see that love is ever expanding and that not only can it overcome evil, but it can actually transform evil into something that is pure love. In the end, what I took away from this riveting story is that there really is no evil in the universe—there is only love. We all travel down paths of our own making; some of these paths might be good while others might be negative or evil, but in the end there is no condition (whether physical or spiritual) that cannot be transformed by love.
This wonderful story comes with a strong message that while subtle, cannot be dismissed. The story holds the reader spellbound with its tale of paranormal events, evil deeds, suspense, friendship and romance. At the end of the day, however, the message comes through loud and clear. Everything is love; everything can be transformed by love.
I said I wasn’t going to compare this to Anne Rice’s vampire books because this book is not about vampires, but I will say that in Rice’s stories while the reader was held in enthralled suspense about what would happen next, evil usually won the day. In Second Chances, Dannye Williamsen doesn’t allow this to happen. So while I was enthralled, held in suspense and even enchanted—in the end I came away feeling inspired and opening my heart to the fact that love truly does conquer all.
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Review by Sandy Wolters, author of Maggie Mae
5 star review:
Is there really evil in the world? Yes. It goes by the name of Darian.
I want to start out by saying that I am a paranormal junkie. This book, SECOND CHANCES by DANNYE WILLIAMSEN, is so much more than your everyday paranormal read. There are no vampires. There are no werewolves, although there is a wolf, Avatar, with a very interesting back story.
Second Chances has a character, Darian, that is so evil, yet the author found a way to write his story that compels the reader to feel sorrow and sympathy for him. The writing in this book was scintillating!
While reading Ms. Williamsen's story, I found myself on an emotional roller coaster throughout, constantly questioning what it is in my personality that I could sympathize with such evil. There has only been one other character in my 50 plus years that has affected me in such a way.
Wait until you get to the end! There is a life's lesson there for all of us. The nice thing is that the author does not push this lesson on the reader. It unfolds in such a way to get your thought process rolling and take your way of thinking to a higher level.
I highly recommend this book for any book clubs looking for a really good paranormal suspense/paranormal romance.
THIS IS A MUST READ!
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Review by Alex Canton, Book Junkie Reviews
When I have previously read a book for review, I tend to read with an inquisitive eye. After reading a few paragraphs, I encountered a beautiful description of a tree’s insides: “differences in shade between the hollow shells of the trees, barely distinguishable to the eye, created concentric borders.” It was very difficult to take breaks, especially after being introduced to a pattern of swinging between fantasy and reality – sometimes distorted.
I liked Ms. Williamsen’s fluid prose. I am sure the plot was carried superbly. I was swooned by the continuous, almost perfect content. My dear Nora Roberts: Move over!
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Review by Patrick Moloney
If “hating the sin and loving the sinner” is ever taken on as a theme for a serious thesis, then Dannye Williamsen’s Second Chances would present itself as a work of great significance and of utmost importance - and for very many reasons, not least because it stretches out to the very limits, out to the sheer edges, the power of the sinner. This is particularly so in the case of the antagonist, the willful Darian.
The author presents a surreal world closely in contact with the real wherein engagements continue to happen within and without. While this approach challenges credibility, it never displeases. In fact as one enters more and more into the tensions of the story, one becomes more involved, one’s appetite grows wanting to know what will happen and what outcomes could possibly be presented. And while the approach to structure is certainly daring, the writing style is lovely throughout. It is easy. And every now and then little gems appear that sparkle - for instance: “with the ignorance of an insect being eyed by a toad”, and another, when referring to processed coffee as having “an aftertaste as if it had been lightly seasoned with melted plastic”.
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Review by Greta Burroughs, author of Gerald And The Wee People
I am not too much into reading about the paranormal but I am glad I started reading Second Chances. The first few pages hooked me and kept my attention until the last page. Freddie Marsh is haunted by visits from a shadow person and asks the classic question, "why me?" Instead of running from the problem, she tries to find the answer. Darian, the one trying to communicate with Freddie, cannot understand why she is not more accepting of his presence.
On the surface, Second Chances is a classic tale of good verses evil, but as the story progresses, Dannye Williamsen expands that concept so that it is not so cut and dry. There is good/evil in all of us, but it is a personal choice as to which is predominent. The author makes the reader think by taking us through Freddie's struggle of how to handle the power she has always tried to ignore but now has to comes to terms with.
Dannye Williamsen's style of writing is very intriguing and well developed. I like the way she uses descriptive writing to set the scene and make the reader see what is happening and become one with the story. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to read the sequel, The Threads That Bind."
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Review by Lia Fairchild, author of In Search of Lucy
This paranormal romance painted a very unique picture of good vs. evil. Freddie, a seemingly normal financial analyst, is suddenly being haunted and tormented by a dark presence with unexplained intentions. The author does a nice job of creating this villain from the beginning of his existence and actually has the reader torn between hate and pity for him. Good vs. Evil progresses the story, and in the end you’ll find yourself with a new understanding of that very concept. My interest was kept throughout this book, following Freddie trying to uncover the mystery and wondering what would happen next.
The Threads That Bind, the sequel
Review by Greta Burroughs, author of Patchwork Dog and Calico Cat
The Threads that Bind is more than just a title to this novel, it is the theme that ties all the characters and plot together in this book. Dannye Williamsen started the tale in her first book, Second Chances in which the protagonist, Freddie had to confront her misguided and "evil" brother, Darian. Darian and Freddie both had the psychic ability to manipulate others; Darian in a negative manner, Freddie used her talent rarely but in a positive way. Instead of the usual good verses evil, good destroys evil type of plot, the author showed how love can overcome the worst in of all people.
In The Threads That Bind, Freddie's granddaughter, Jillian discovers that her closest and dearest friend, Mandy had been a associate of Jillian's grandmother. Another one of Jillian's friends/allies is actually Darian's son who also knew and admired Freddie. As the story progresses, the threads bind together as the characters discover the ties associated with their past. They use their knowledge and abilities to pick up the task initiated years earlier by Freddie to overcome the blatant misuse of psychic power, but now it is in Jillian's time. The true beauty of the story is the way in which the antagonists go about that task without destroying any lives.
The story is very well written, with good character development and a fast pace that keeps the reader glued to the story. The author created a very believable tale with a moral that can be carried over into our everyday lives. We can all learn a lesson from this story: we have a chance in life to change our path and make a difference no matter what is expected by others because love underlies everything.
I highly recommend Dannye Williamsen's novels to all readers.
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Review by Patricia Caldwell, SoundForLife.net
"Dannye weaves a storyline that grabs hold of you and doesn't let you go until the very last word. I love her novels because they are intelligent and logical as well as original and spellbinding!"
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Review by Alex Canton, Book Junkie Reviews
I always look for a description which will allow me to rate the flow of the book I've started to read. "…the aggressiveness of the red lights gave way to the greens and blues until nothing remained but the night sky." This was the "go," which was difficult to maintain even for very practical reasons. Along the way I was bound by my favourite genre -- paranormal -- about which Dannye Williamsen is an expert.
The author's use of the first person to handle one of the lead female characters sensitizes the reader to the character's search for a maternal identity. Add the fantastic knowledge of clinical psychology necessary to handle the mechanics of mind reading and dealing with such concepts as "alternate reality vs. virtual reality" and "TRV—technical remote viewing—a path connecting to Jung's collective unconscious." The former makes the whole plot believable.
The Threads that Bind is more than just a title to this novel, it is the theme that ties all the characters and plot together in this book. Dannye Williamsen started the tale in her first book, Second Chances in which the protagonist, Freddie had to confront her misguided and "evil" brother, Darian. Darian and Freddie both had the psychic ability to manipulate others; Darian in a negative manner, Freddie used her talent rarely but in a positive way. Instead of the usual good verses evil, good destroys evil type of plot, the author showed how love can overcome the worst in of all people.
In The Threads That Bind, Freddie's granddaughter, Jillian discovers that her closest and dearest friend, Mandy had been a associate of Jillian's grandmother. Another one of Jillian's friends/allies is actually Darian's son who also knew and admired Freddie. As the story progresses, the threads bind together as the characters discover the ties associated with their past. They use their knowledge and abilities to pick up the task initiated years earlier by Freddie to overcome the blatant misuse of psychic power, but now it is in Jillian's time. The true beauty of the story is the way in which the antagonists go about that task without destroying any lives.
The story is very well written, with good character development and a fast pace that keeps the reader glued to the story. The author created a very believable tale with a moral that can be carried over into our everyday lives. We can all learn a lesson from this story: we have a chance in life to change our path and make a difference no matter what is expected by others because love underlies everything.
I highly recommend Dannye Williamsen's novels to all readers.
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Review by Patricia Caldwell, SoundForLife.net
"Dannye weaves a storyline that grabs hold of you and doesn't let you go until the very last word. I love her novels because they are intelligent and logical as well as original and spellbinding!"
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Review by Alex Canton, Book Junkie Reviews
I always look for a description which will allow me to rate the flow of the book I've started to read. "…the aggressiveness of the red lights gave way to the greens and blues until nothing remained but the night sky." This was the "go," which was difficult to maintain even for very practical reasons. Along the way I was bound by my favourite genre -- paranormal -- about which Dannye Williamsen is an expert.
The author's use of the first person to handle one of the lead female characters sensitizes the reader to the character's search for a maternal identity. Add the fantastic knowledge of clinical psychology necessary to handle the mechanics of mind reading and dealing with such concepts as "alternate reality vs. virtual reality" and "TRV—technical remote viewing—a path connecting to Jung's collective unconscious." The former makes the whole plot believable.
