Spotlight: Stage of Fools by Sean Pauzauskie

Pauzauskie’s new novel STAGE OF FOOLS (High Frequency Press) tells the story of Steven Levinson, a San Francisco billionaire left unresponsive in a hospital bed after a boating accident in which he nearly drowns. In an homage to Shakespeare's King Lear, Levinson witnesses his family scheme for his fortune from his bed in the ICU, helpless to intervene. Stuck in the stillness of a coma, he is forced to grapple with the choices that brought him to this moment. Levinson's coma allows for frequent soliloquy in the stage-like setting of a hospital room: Levinson (as with Lear) has his whole lifetime of lived experiences to consider, and it's his intense rumination on his compromised judgment that literally drives him mad. In the book, Pauzauskie explores the Jungian notion that “those who look outward, dream; while those who look inward, awaken.” The novel is an unforgettable portrait of what follows when the powerful are rendered powerless and when emerging technology makes the unthinkable possible.

Filled with family intrigue and profound personal development, STAGE OF FOOLS tells a contemporary story in a classic way. In our world of billionaires and oligarchs, seeing if a contemporary 'King Lear' can learn from his mistakes poses the question: does anything truly change, or does the same old story hold in modern times?

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About the Author

Dr. Sean Pauzauskie is a practicing hospital neurologist in the University of Colorado system, where he conducts clinical research employing neurotechnology, primarily for the optimization of epilepsy management. He is the medical director of the NeuroRights Foundation, an active member of the American Academy of Neurology and The American Medical Association, and his research experience includes time at The National Institute of Mental Health, The Energy and Commerce Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives, and the Kaufmann Foundation for entrepreneurship. Born in Alaska and raised in Topeka, Kansas, Dr. Pauzauskie was mentored by and wrote his literature thesis with Stephen Jan Parker, a favorite pupil of Vladimir Nabokov. He lives with his wife and Siberian husky in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. His literacy scholarship has been presented at the International Nabokov Society Conference in Montreux, Switzerland, and elsewhere. Stage of Fools is his debut novel. More at seanpauzauskie.com.

Spotlight: Confirm Humanity by Kim Mannix

The poems in Confirm Humanity are often juxtapositions between life’s joyful moments and the inevitably sorrowful.

With a background in journalism, Mannix’s perspective frequently comes from a place of observation; asking why people do the maddening things they do, and what, if anything, is the solution? The writing touches on the darkness of humanity, and the ways we—as citizens, women, mothers—learn to endure and persevere in light. There is awe for the natural world, but also cynicism and grief about how humans interact with the earth and one another.

Like the box on a website that asks you to click to confirm you are human, these poems collectively ask their reader to consider the complexity of human emotion and action in this mysterious, maddening, and ultimately beautiful world.

Excerpt

Disturbing the Peace

It’s hard to keep your muscles loose, your teeth unclenched.

Hard to hear the news over and over and over—insert

city, number of dead here. Painting layer after layer of

rage on top of you. It’s a wonder you’re not shellacked in

place, fist up and mouth open, mid-anger shriek. How do

you stay soft? How do you keep from popping your Ps on

impossible words like prayer, peace, protection? How do

you say you’re a pacifist and mean it? It used to be so easy.

Remember raising two fingers, like you saw the long-haired

rock stars do on the covers of your dad’s records? There’s

a plaque you still have in your living room, PEACE, LIKE

CHARITY, BEGINS AT HOME. You’ve believed it for a

long time. But lately you worry it ends there too. Praise,

to all the brave souls, who still turn on the TV, refresh the

newsfeed, open the front door, wave to a neighbour—their

bodies as supple as a yogi’s. Belief cushioning their red, red

hearts.

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About the Author

Kim Mannix (she/her) is a journalist, poet and short fiction writer who lives and creates on Treaty Six territory in Sherwood Park, Alberta.

Born and raised in Saskatoon, she is a graduate of both the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina and has lived and worked across Canada. Her passion for climate justice issues, the importance of art, feminism and parenthood intersect in both her creative and professional pursuits.

Mannix is a contributing editor of Watch Your Head, a climate crisis anthology, and a freelance entertainment and lifestyle writer. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Edmonton Poetry Festival and is an avid believer that everyone, everywhere has a little poetry in their soul.

Her poetry and prose have appeared in numerous Canadian and American journals and anthologies. Confirm Humanity is her first book of poetry.

Spotlight: The Christmas Wish in Twinkle Falls by Freda Ann

(A Twinkle Falls Novel, #6)

Publication date: November 21st 2025

Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

After my husband died overseas in an ambush, our kids became my world. He was my one and only—I could never meet anyone who makes me feel the way he did.

(Rochelle)

Needing a fresh start last year, I took my kids to Twinkle Falls for Christmas, but meeting Jesse was never part of my plan. When my best friend introduced us, this retired police officer’s charm and infectious smile started breaking down my walls.

Me and the kids agreed to make Twinkle Falls our forever home at the end of our three month break—but something went horribly wrong after returning home to pack up our things.

(Jesse)

After losing touch with Rochelle once she stopped all communication with me, I knew I’d been ghosted. Roe was the one person I could imagine a future with when my ex left me once I became an amputee.

With my buddies trying to fix me up, I decide it’s time to move on from the past.

(Rochelle)

Nine months after our planned move, me and the kids arrive in Twinkle Falls with everything we own after purchasing a home. Feeling horrible the way I left things with Jesse, our friends agree to let me be the one to tell him we’re here once me and the kids get settled.

Now ready to share the news, I texted Jesse asking if we can talk, but days go by with no response.

While having lunch with my friends I glance around the restaurant and my jaw drops. I see why Jesse didn’t respond to my message—he’s found another woman—the one whose hands are all over him.

Can a Christmas wish intervene and seal this couple’s fate?

This is a feel good, clean, faith-based Christmas romance featuring the charm of small town life, insta-love, and a Christmas miracle with a happily ever after.

It’s book 6 of an ongoing holiday themed sweet romance series, Hallmark style.

Excerpt

“Kids, you better get downstairs, Jesse will be here any minute to pick us up.” I holler from the foyer.

As feet quickly pound the steps, Lilly proclaims, “We’re getting our tree today!”

“Yay, we’re getting our tree!” Ty says when I hear the crunching of tires coming up the driveway.

The grandparents went in town for brunch at the Twinkle Falls Inn before watching the kids this afternoon when me and Trace go downtown.

Before Jesse knocks on the door I pull it open to his amazing smile as he scans the kids saying, “There’s two of my favorite kids.” They smile while all sharing a hug.

“Who wants to get a Christmas tree?” He asks full of enthusiasm.

They both scream while jumping up and down. “We do, we do!”

“Okay then, let’s get going.” He says leading Ty out to the truck so he doesn’t slide on the patches of ice while I hold Lilly’s hand walking carefully.

While Jesse looks for a parking spot Ty asks, “Mommy, is Mr. Kris really Santa Claus?”

Cutting my eyes to Jesse, my mouth opens then closes when I shrug at him and say, “Well, I can’t say for sure, but there are a lot of people that have lived here for a long time who kind of think so. Then again, why would Santa be working at a tree lot?”

Lilly matter-of-factly states. “Because he gets to talk to the parents and see which kids are naughty and nice.”

Giving me a brief sideways glance, Jesse cackles. “I think you might be onto something Lilly.”

After parking, I grab Ty’s hand so Jesse can have some time with Lilly. “Come on little man, let’s find the perfect tree.”

“Not if we find one first.” Jesse states while holding Lilly’s hand as they go to the left while I lead Ty to the right.

A while later we show each other the trees we like the most when Jesse suggests, “How about we flip a coin to see which one to take home?”

The kids look at each other and Ty shrugs, “Alright, can I flip it?”

Peeking at Lilly, she nods at me so I answer, “That sounds good to us, but we get heads.”

Whispering in Ty’s ear, my son says, “Okay,” before Jesse gives him a quarter which he quickly flips.

The coin bounces on the ground and lands on tails. “We won Mr. Jesse, we won!” Ty jumps up and down giggling and getting someone’s attention.

“That was a wonderful coin flip Tyler.” Kris bends over sharing his usual jolly smile with my son.

Ty’s jaw sinks down while staring at him for a minute then turns to me. “Mom, it’s Santa—I mean Mr. Kris.”

“Can you say hello to Mr. Kris?” I coax him.

Beaming, he looks him in the eyes and says, “Hi Mr. Kris. Are you really Santa Claus?”

Looking at Jesse, my face feels like it’s on fire. Sighing, I say, “I’m sorry Kris.”

“Oh it’s alright. I get that all the time. We do rather resemble each other, don’t we?” He lets out a long belly laugh while holding his round belly.

“How are you young lady?” He asks turning to Lilly.

Smiling, she says, “I’m good Mr. Kris.”

“That’s great to hear Lilly.” Her brows raise when he says her name.

He looks at Ty. “Have you been a good boy this year young man?”

Nodding, my son says, “Uh-huh.”

“That’s wonderful to hear. It looks like you’ve found the perfect Christmas tree. Well, let me get someone to help you take it to your car.”

As he walks away, the kids yell, “Bye Mr. Kris.” He chuckles and waves his hand through the air.

On the drive to our house the kids talk mostly amongst themselves about Mr. Kris, debating whether he is really Santa Claus or not while me and Jesse muffle our laughs.

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About the Author

Freda Ann is fondly known for her sweet/clean, HEA RomComs. Her loyal fans and reviewers have compared several of her books to Hallmark movies. Many have hit #1 in multiple categories after release.

She writes relatable, faith and family based love stories which include kids and adorable dogs. Her writing style appeals to people of all ages. Her books will take you on an emotional journey with likable characters, and dreamy settings you'll wish you could visit.

After retiring from a career in the law enforcement field, Freda feels blessed to be able to write and self-publish her stories for everyone to read. She adores her large family, 5 children and 9 grandchildren, and hosts monthly family gatherings.

To hear about new releases, please follow her on Amazon and also on Goodreads.

Connect:

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Spotlight: Coyote Snow by Laurie Lynn Muirhead

Step into the wild and sacred landscape of North Central Saskatchewan through Laurie Lynn Muirhead’s emotionally charged poetry collection, Coyote Snow.

With exquisite lyricism and a reverent eye, Muirhead captures the fierce beauty and fragile rhythms of a life entwined with the land, animals, and elemental forces. These poems are both a meditation and a reckoning—where cold meets spirit, survival meets grace, and readers find themselves transformed by the quiet miracles of the natural world. Don your winter boots and prepare to journey through the frosty, organic terrain of Coyote Snow.

Laurie Lynn Muirhead’s poetry shines as a rising star in the constellation of rural Canadian literature.

Excerpt

Regrettably

the time-loss of sharing gathers me unaware

that it is snowing now and I am cold

the coyotes are quiet and the colour is gone

my porch light, a small beacon of welcome

appeals to me

and I leave the secrets of this night where they belong

tomorrow I am assured

there will be two sets of tracks

in the coyote snow

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About the Author

Laurie Lynn Muirhead lives in beautiful North East Saskatchewan and is a creator of poetry and children’s literature. She writes what she lives and is especially inspired by the extreme simplicity of the natural world about her. Her work has appeared in numerous periodicals such as The New Quarterly and The Society and has been broadcast on CBC Radio. Her first collection of poetry, Bone Sense, was selected for Thistledown’s New Leaf Series and a children’s book, Lullaby Lilly, published with YNWP.

Laurie Lynn is a long-standing member with sans nom poetry group, is a Creative Writing Coach for youth and a current member with the Saskatchewan Writer’s Guild. She enjoys sharing her work at themed poetry readings, poetic gatherings and creative writing workshops. Besides writing, she works part time as a librarian at the Shellbrook Elementary Public School, and helps out on the family ranch in the rural area of Wild Rose.

Spotlight: Lovely Torment by Kimberly Quinn

(Savage Hearts Syndicate, #2)

Publication date: November 18th 2025

Genres: Adult, Dark Romance, Romance, Suspense

Synopsis:

He’s cold, calculating, and lethal. A killer. 

He’s also my hero. 

Finn Decker rescued me from a life in captivity, but not out of mercy. I’m his key to destroying the Bratva leader who shattered both our lives. A pawn in his ruthless game of vengeance. 

I should be afraid. I should run. 

Instead, I’m drawn to the darkness in his eyes, the craving he ignites, and the promise of retribution he offers. And I realize—I want him to use me in ways that have nothing to do with revenge. 

Only, it’s hard to tell if I’m his leverage, his weakness, or something far more dangerous. 

His. 

Because in a war this savage, there’s no room for mistakes. 

Or love.

Excerpt

A thrill shot through me. 

It was sharp and vivid, and suddenly, I was drowning in him. In his heat, in his scent, in the way his body caged mine like he was the only thing keeping me upright. 

“Don’t lie,” he growled. “You can be pissed at me. You can be scared. You can feel whatever the fuck you want. But don’t pretend you don’t want something more from me. You’ve been clinging to me since the day I took you out of Rykov’s house.” 

“Well, I wasn’t angry before.” I lifted my chin and let all my irritation flow into the glare I gave at him. “But now? Yeah. Now, I am.” 

“Good. Get angry for a change. Stand up for yourself. Prove you’re not just a victim looking for a goddamn savior.” 

“You think that’s what I want from you? That I’m so weak and desperate I can’t stand on my own?” The words tumbled out, fueled by a courage I didn’t recognize. A fire I’d never dared stoke before. 

“No, Lena,” he growled. “I think you’re a thousand times stronger than you know. And I think if you knew me at all, you’d understand why friendship isn’t something I can give you.” 

“But you’re friends with Robin.” 

“I don’t want to fuck Robin.” His voice was rough. Like the words had clawed their way up his throat.  

And they stunned me. 

My mouth opened, but nothing came out. Was I even still breathing? 

He twisted my arm higher up my back—the dull pinch of it, reminding me I was at his mercy. “I can’t be your friend. Because every time you get close, it gets harder to hold back. Harder to pretend I’m not about to lose my fucking mind.” 

His hold loosened, just slightly, like he was about to let me go. But before I could process it, his fingers flexed, and in a swift, merciless motion, he’d wrenched my other arm behind my back, pinning both wrists in one unyielding hand. 

“You want something safe. Someone stable. But that’s not who I am.” His free hand slid up to wrap around my throat, his fingers pressing into the side of my neck. “This is the kind of man I am.” 

And God, despite the edge of fear, despite the voice in my head telling me to run, my panties were soaked. 

He leaned in, his mouth hovering at my ear and breath rough against my skin. “What I want is to tie you up and then take you apart. Slowly. Thoroughly. Until you forget every man who ever came before me. I want to ruin you for anyone that isn’t me. Then build you back up from the wreckage. Stronger. Fiercer. Like the queen I already see when I look at you.” 

He paused, his breath hitching. “And then do it again. And again. And a-fucking-gain.” 

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About the About

Kimberly is a contemporary romance author, born procrastinator, and lover of morally gray heroes. She enjoys lively conversations, usually with imaginary people, and can often be found daydreaming at work.

She writes gritty, messy, dangerous romances, featuring beautifully flawed characters, pursuing love at all costs. It's romance with rough edges.

When she’s not busy writing, you can find her with a coffee in hand, dog at her side, and exploring the wilds of her hometown in Ontario, Canada… Or on her couch, getting lost in a good story.

Connect:

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Spotlight: A Sabre in the Hemlock by Dorothy Dreyer

(Blade Bound Saga, #2)

Publication date: November 18th 2025

Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance

With enemies closing in and magic slipping from her control, Celeste draws closer to unraveling a prophecy that could cost her the man she loves—as well as her soul.

In the wake of the carnoraxis attack on Ivystone Citadel, Celeste Westergaard’s battle for her future has only just begun. Trapped under the king’s watchful eye and hiding the magic awakening within her, Celeste must play the role expected of her, all the while uncovering secrets buried throughout Terre Ferique.

As the royal court embarks on a tour to solidify Dante’s claim to legitimacy, whispers of war and treachery follow their every step. The Shadow Tsar’s reach is growing, and the prophecy that fuels his reign foretells the rise of a power that will bring his downfall—one tied to the blood of the fae.

From glittering courts to bloodstained battlefields, Celeste must walk a knife’s edge between duty and desire, deception and truth. Because if the tsar discovers who she really is, he won’t just come for her magic, he’ll come for her soul.

A Sabre in the Hemlock is the thrilling sequel to the award-winning A Dagger in the Ivy, weaving romance, danger, and dark intrigue into an unforgettable tale of power and sacrifice.

Excerpt

His jaw flexes. “You used your magic again.”

“Dante—”

“You promised you wouldn’t,” he says, voice quiet but taut, threaded with frustration. “You said you’d wait. You said you’d let Ezra figure it out.”

“I never promised,” I snap back, chin lifting. “You asked me not to, but I never agreed.”

“You bled, Celeste.” He leans closer, his voice low, heated. “I could tell something was wrong, even from the water. And what I couldn’t see, Nadya filled me in on.”

Of course she did.

“I had to help you.” The words come out louder than I intend, sharp with the emotion I’ve been burying all day. “They sent armed soldiers after you. You were bleeding underwater. You could have been pummeled by a f***ing tsunami. You don’t get to ask me to sit and watch you die.”

His hands flex, fists clenching just beneath the surface. “And what if helping me had killed you instead?”

I stare at him, my breath shallow. I don’t have an answer—not one that would make him feel better.

He paces a few steps through the water, raking a hand through his hair until it curls wild and damp around his temples. “Gods, you’re so damn stubborn.”

“And you’re so damn arrogant if you think you can tell me when and how I’m allowed to use a power that’s mine.”

He turns sharply, water sluicing off his chest, his gaze fierce enough to stop me in place. He crosses the space between us with quick, sure strides—and suddenly, he’s there, his hands finding me beneath the water, one arm locking around my waist, the other curling so that his hand is tugging the hair at the nape of my neck.

The heat of him burns through the chill. My breath stutters.

“Of course you’d fight me,” he mutters, his voice hoarse against my cheek. “Even when I’m trying to protect you.”

“And of course you’d push me,” I breathe back, “even when I’m trying to save you.”

The air thrums between us, thick with something neither of us is willing to yield. My pulse hammers as his thumb grazes the side of my throat, slow and reverent, like he’s trying to memorize the beat of my heart.

“I told you,” he says, his forehead almost brushing mine, “you bleed for no one.”

“And I told you,” I whisper, “you don’t get to decide that.”

His jaw tightens—and then, in one breath, his lips are on mine.

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About the Author

Dorothy Dreyer is a Philippine-born American living in Germany with her family. She is an award-winning, USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy, romance, and horror books that usually have some element of magic or the supernatural in them. Aside from reading, she enjoys movies, binge-watching series, chocolate, take-out, traveling, and having fun with friends and family. She tends to sing sometimes, too, so keep her away from your Karaoke bars.

Connect:

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