Greetings everyone, T.R. Tells here. It's been awhile since I made a post. The last one sometime in November or December of 2020? I'll be sure to give frequent enough posts/blogs in concern with book updates and overall WIP updates (as writers things ideas always strike the mood).

Book Two of Paragons of Justice series Her Dark Virtue is complete and the Ebook is available next month (march 1st). You can pick up the first book Her Dark Sins just to prepare yourself for the release! I will also be doing my first giveaway (yay!) I've decided there to be two winners. First winner will receive: a Paperback version of Book one, an ebook of book two, a notebook, pen, bookmark, and a business card. Second winner will receive a Paperback of Book one, a pen, bookmark, and a business card. Sound appealing? Stay tuned to my website and my social media handles to find out more.

I hope to see you all again, stay safe, and keep on reading!

I hope everyone is doing well and staying safe. Did anyone watch the latest (and final) episode of Supernatural? I know quite a bit of people have mixed view of things, myself included, but what we all can agree on Covid has been a real nasty sucker. On top of the amount of cases, deaths of loved ones, the game and tv/movie industry has suffered as well. It's going to take some time, but we can fight through this if we stand together. 

And speaking of standing together, fighting in the darkness. I am excited to say that BOOK TWO of 'Her Dark Virtue' is complete and will be with my editor come December. That also, said, I have not one, but two, covers. I won't get too much into it, but I wanted to vamp up the Paragons of Justice Series with new covers, new summaries, (new artwork? Wait and see ). But now, I am on the fence. I have had a few opinions but they were both 50/50. 

On the one hand, the original book two I had (like for Book one of Her Dark Sins) was supposed to represent a comic/manga style as that's what the series is based on. So I am asking you, dear folks out there, if you have a moment to spare--Which do you prefer?

So... where do I start with this game. The Last of Us Part 2 created by Naughty Dog made a sequel to The Last of Us (Part One) and it had great praise. A simple story of a dystopian world with zombies. Nothing new but TLOU had beautiful graphics, great characters/arcs, and a relationship between a surrogate father and daughter. Showing how a veteran, harsh guy named Joel survived and learned to be happy again after the death of his daughter and what the world had done to him after meeting the Brash but often sarcastic Ellie. 

The main point of TLOUS was "A light at the end of the tunnel" it even specifies that but Neil decided to go with "The cycle of Revenge" (mind you he had this idea for the first game but was stopped). Now let's be honest - in a dystopian world there would be blood, gore, death, revenge, etc. Sure, to show the 'cycle violence' should end but that would regardless and for a game that preached that sure showed the EXACT OPPOSITE what the message was saying. It will always continue no matter what but in order to counteract that would be to "add light" in the darkness. 

Before I get to the ending, the TLOUS2 in no way was "terrible" and Neil and Naughty Dog (and their consultant Anita) should not get death threats, but for their constant and inconsistent: plot holes, plot armor, bad character arcs, inconsistencies both plotwise, gamewise, and medical wise. I mean, you have to ask yourself in TLOUS the "cure" was such a big thing but it gets dropped so fast and only named dropped for drama purposes. 

So. . . That way this doesn't become a full fledge article. The Ending.  Neil had an interview that said "Ellie was supposed to kill Abby but they thought it would destroy her humanity" Let's not forget how she had a flashback mid-drowning Abby AFTER her fingers were bit off. So let's go into Ellie's "humanity" 1. through the flashback, when Ellie had found out Joel lied and she could have been a "possible cure" she felt basically "useless" that her life could have meant something (even if that would have meant her death). So she might have been feeling a minor bit of depression and self-worth AND she had a distanced relationship with her adoptive father. 2. Ellie had kllled over THOUSANDS of people before even meeting Abby (first why would she stop to kill Abby then? She already killed so many without stopping. Wouldn't her humanity already be tarnished?) AND 3. You took her LAST REMAINING FAMILY her girlfriend and baby, who she's probably spent the better year or two with them and they end up leaving (and she has possible PTSD). 

Now for the ending: Why couldn't after the time skip, Ellie settle down at the farm with the love of her life? Would this have not shown "the end end to the cycle of violence"? And then showing Tommy come back and to say (after he explicable told Ellie don't take on these people and left without her) NOW wants her to go after Joel and guilt her. Hmmm. . . Not instead, say "Joel would want you to be happy" (especially if she wasn't going to go with revenge. Which by the way, Abby did the EXACT SAME THING killing her people to save Lev's life, the exact same thing Joel did to save Ellie and YET Abby was never once sorry - which I do understand her point - but maybe at some point, Abby could have said "I'm sorry". So that if Ellie did go after Abby and did lose everything, she would have SOMETHING.)

So far, Ellie has NOTHING and Abby gets away scot free. INSTEAD, they should have ended Ellie's story and thus STOPPED  the cycle violence. And then JUMP TO Abby and Lev, where they were finding a FIREFLY OUTPOST. That sounds exciting and sounds like a good DLC or a good TLOUS3. because when they bump into the rattlers (and they are defeated so easily, their introduction felt so forced, and then have Ellie jump in there). INSTEAD, start up "new enemies" for Abby and Lev. I watched someone on YouTube who came up with ending their capture on a cliffhanger. 

Now show ABBY (who should now be the new focus) and she starts the prison riot and she has to find Lev. No this is not revenge, this is survival and it focuses on Abby and Lev (the new prison people who we can have a character bond with throughout the 1-3 hours of Abby growing a bond and trying to escape). And these people could be going with them to find THE FIREFLY OUTPOST, an objective. So you end Ellie's story happy with the end of revenge and you start Abby's story with Lev with survival. 

This would have also been a good ending of "Three" or the DLC to show Abby, Lev (and whoever they are traveling with) they made it safely. And the amount of times Abby was around spores WITHOUT  a mask or when Ellie bit her and maybe Abby is immune? She could have been the cure WITHOUT KILLING HER (because there was a way through the spinal cord where the virus was attributed). 

Overall, the game for the most part was pretty but it had TOO MANY FLAWS and for the most part disrespected a Trans character by dead naming them and using their sexuality as a a PLOT DEVICE (as if we should be better and far from that) and how this game is kind of racist to Black people. Because (like the TLOUS DLC) they are either used as device (the DLC used Ellie's friend to show that Ellie is a lesbian and then being killed off) and several Black people were brutally killed. Even Issac, someone who was supposed to be a major player, was blasted immediately. 

That being said, it wasn't terrible, but it was by far "brave" or the greatest game ever. No one should be backlashed or be called out BUT I feel the Naughty Dog team needs to take a step back and review their writing. Learn that "Shock Value" does not make a good story (like how Joel's death was portrayed - him dying was not why people were mad, it was HOW it was done. Even though it CAN  be justified from Abby's perspective, but everything still went well for Abby in the end).

Overall, I hope people take a closer look at the game and see the flaws (but to not attack anyone) but realize (that like Uncharted 4: A Thief's End) Naughty Dog isn't as good as they say and their agenda's will continue to compromise a story.

Sorry for the rant guys, but if you made this far I hope you know I am not attacking ANYONE or doing shitpost but expresses why something wasn't a great game and how it could have gone better and still tell a meaningful story without forcing an agenda or what have you. People can like what they want and shouldn't be attacked, if they didn't like it. But like how Sony (letting an NSFW scene slide when they will never accept scenes like that from anyone else) and other reviewers are talking trash or being paid under the table isn't cool and this game should be treated like anything else.

​Let people have opinions, good or bad, and let's just enjoy ourselves again.

So with a bit of sprucing up my website, I wanted to do a little more to promote myself and my books. It's not much but 'slow and steady win the race' they always say. And I hope people will enjoy the video and my books (ebook or paperback) if they decide to pick them up.  

 - As always, happy reading!

In the Her Dark Sins the first book of the "Shadows of Truth Series" that may be discovered. A YA Urban Fantasy that addresses worldly issues and inspired by 'comic heroes' and 'anime'. It is an enjoyable read of laughs, uniquely diverse characters to love (or hate), and a few thoughtful topics that are relevant/seen in every day life. 

Soon to be on Amazon both ebook and print, I hope you will enjoy the first book (and possible the next one to come).

Today on Amazon you can buy the Ebook "Game of Survival" for ONLY $0.99. For people of all ages, race, and sex if you enjoy Fantasy with a female (black) lead with vast colorful and morally gray characters that are fighting for survival in a realm where discrimination and hatred run deep, but hope, love, friendship, and sacrifice can be found even in the darkest of times. You'll also enjoy small tales of magic, gods, and demons if that too tickles your fantasy. It is also available in paperback, ready for the holidays.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVCPNHQ

So you decided to work on that idea that has been simmering in your head for some time now, even better, you have someone to bounce your ideas off of and they you. What couldn't be better? Whether it was family, friend, co-worker, or stranger that you met on a writing forum, you both came together and sat down to say "Let's write thing". It might not be the greatest thing, it might be the best thing in the world, or you might just keep it to yourself. The fact of the matter is, you both decided to trust and test out each other's strength. Yes, there will be ups and downs, but you listen to one another and don't judge or criticize. There are disagreements but you aren't butting heads like raging bulls. No one questions the other individual of their skills but they talk to one another.

That is important, that is team work.

Seems the most I blog and write here, though every so often, is at night. I wonder who is a night owl here? That being said, how is everyone's Nanowrimo going on? Have you got further or have you started out an outline? Are you editing? Whatever you're doing or started is well worth it! I never thought I would even START Nanowrimo; let alone have 14K written so far on my Cyberpunk WIP. I kind of like where it's going, though I am not sure if I am touching on the Cyberpunk too much, but that is what drafts, edits, and Beta's are. So, let's talk Nano projects if you will, comment on my post or my Twitter.

Also, let me know if you think "Night time Blogger" should be a thing!

So, incidentally I missed Septembers blog update and I apologize for not being as active as I should on this website. It's been hard trying to update, maintain it, and therefore have a presence on social media when most of the time in order to have a presence there has to be (most often) money involved and as many of us know, life has a way of making things difficult, but I shall do what I can. I've been thinking of doing Booktubes, live reading on Instagram, even posting snippets of book two's draft to send out to people's mailing list to those who subscribed. I am also - as the title suggest - going to (or hope to participate in Nanowrimo). It is a Cyberpunk WIP (work in progress) I've always wanted to try my hand at it and maybe that could be something I could send out snippets as well because I do want my author's page to have several books and not just the Final Destiny Trilogy (I do wish I was a speedy typer but we all have our paths to lead, this is just mine, I guess). Anyway, I'll keep all those posted so subscribe to my website and follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (username TRTELLS). Until next time!

So, I'm writing this as I sit in front of my screen because as an author/ghostwriter sometimes the "ideas" and "outlines" never come when you need it and while that's
just one of the drawbacks, I feel like if I would have made writing a habit or a constant I would be having less of these "struggles".

We all know the saying "Practice makes Perfect" well that too can apply to writing. No you aren't supposed to slave over a computer until your eyes bleed or fingers fall off (Good Heavens don't do that!) but getting into the habit of things might just help (like not biting your nails, yes, you might still do it but if you practice not to put your fingers in your mouth - maybe remembering how much dirt and germs you touch every single day might gross you out - you soon become in the habit of not biting your nails.

So the same logic applies for writing - You might be able to plan/outline a little easier or get into the habit of every day or every other day (or wen you have a chance) to write 50 to 100 words. Remember doing Crossroad puzzles? Or Word games? Doing those every so often, trains your brain, and keeps your mind active.
However you do it, even if its only for a few minutes, that's enough to train your brain to learn the habit because in the long run it could help you.

With it being the end of August, I wanted to make up for the lack of posts. Yesterday night I finished the first draft of my second novel to the Final Destiny trilogy which is to be named (Game of Life and Death). I'll be doing a second draft sometime in a few weeks. That moment when you create something is like a shock and excited feeling bubbling inside. I'm really eager to make the third and final book but slow and steady wins the race as they say. In the meantime of taking a break from the first draft, I am working on a compendium, which will be a collection of short stories about the gods of my world.

I'll be sure to keep everyone posted with how the second book, its edits, the compendium, and about the cover reveal for book two (though I have an idea about that).

It's been some time but after tweaks of edit which I hope are running smooth and so that way you readers out there can enjoy this book as it is intended. That being said, the paperback is coming soon, there's just been a few issues with formatting (curse that again, it's like it DOESN'T WANT THIS TO BE OUT) Well, I am looking into the issue as we speak but for right now you can peer into the world of Game of Survival. As you can see a slight difference in name change, series change, and there very small details that were changed/enhance from "Betas" who pointed out a few things to make note of. While I didn't change everything, only what was necessary to further something or add a bit of detail. It does not ruin the flow of the plot, so for those who last read, you don't have to re-read (unless you want to which I will not object too!). Anyway links can be find in its designated area on the website.

http://www.trtellsbooks.com/final-destiny-trilogy.html

I hope you all enjoy reading and welcome Game of Survival to the world again.

To those who serve or had serve, or have family who served in the military I give you my thanks for serving this country. So I hope everyone is with some kind of love ones, family, friends, significant other, relatives, in-laws, or your friendly neighbor hooding alien. I wish you all a happy day and to keep those smiling faces. The world needs more of people gathering together and eating, laughing, remembering, and giving remembrance. Stay positive everyone and be happy!

There is nothing more frustrating or anxiety-building than not having a strong support system and that's normally in anything you do! Sure, you could be the type of lone wolf who works alone, but don't tell me you don't appreciate a "good job" or "you can do it" every now and then? I'm saying this because - speaking from experience, and while my family does encourage, I can't say the same for my significant other. You need a support system that will build you up, not bring you down.
They will read what you have written, test out a project or critique a work of art, play that new indie game you developed. Whatever the case, a support should be there to steer you on a good path. No, never should they fill your head, but every once and awhile praise should be given when it is given and honest opinions should be dealt with NOT with an iron fist but direct and mature.

The world is already tough and though most of us can stand on our own two feet, some of us can't, or some of us need a little helping hand along the way.

You are special, in every way, shape or form. I know it's hard when someone close to you tells you mean and unkind words about what you're doing (why not? They were the LEAST person who should have done that) but just keep pursuing in it. You are wonderfully made and don't deserve that kind of mistreatment. From one person who has felt this way, constantly, keep your head high, and try not to "let the haters win"; in the end they won't make it in life because they'll be busy making fun of others while you succeed and surpass them.

Feeling pressured lately? As if there's a rush to "do this" and "do that". That overwhelming surge of anxiety that makes you feel like your drowning and that life is unbearable. How do you cope with that feeling? What kinds of things hold you under water as a writer (or not as a writer!) At the very least, you feel alone, and forgotten. Sure you have your family, friends, and maybe even your dog Fido and Cat Fi-Fi, but for some reason no one really understands this overwhelmed anxiety feeling that pushes us down. How does one overcome it? How do you push through the negative constraints of society and get rid of this negative emotion.

It's hard to do and you just feel like balling up in a fetal position and just crying, letting everything out; feeling alone and numb to the world because no one understands your problems better than yourself. So you become your own soldier and you fight through the wars of your mind: Anxiety, depression, worthlessness, the feeling of writers block, and seeing everyone else accomplish something.

You have to be your own soldier, in writing, and in every other daily life choice.

You know what Grinds my gears? Writers Block. There's always something that places itself into the center of your mind and stops all creative process from flowing. Sometimes there's a fence, sometimes there is a really BIG fence, and sometimes there is a huge concrete wall that doesn't seem to move AT ALL. Then, when it does move, there's always another wall right there.

Confessions of a struggling writer, I tell you. . .

So, what grinds your gears? How do you get over the dreaded writers block? I'd love to hear everyone's thoughts and what tricks, tips, or incantations you all do to get that block out of your mind!

What's going on in the month of February! It's a new month in 2019 and i know, you haven't seen much of this here ole' blog, life has really been crazy. Anyway, not to bore you all, I do want to say that for a bit of teaser that "A Game of Survival" will be getting a new paint job AND it will have a paper back version to it - Yes, on Amazon. So you know what that means? You'll be able to get a hold on your favorite series!

And Speaking of series and books, I pushing through with writing Book Two. That's right, I hope to get Book Two finished in three months (that's the goal folks) so you lovely ladies and gentsdon't have to wait so long for the next installment (yes, it's quite a feat, but I'm willing to take it for readers out there).

So don't forget to tune in to see the new cover, updates and progress on book two (I have a newsletter you guys can sign up too!) follow me on Twitter, Facebook, and if you can spare your time or a few extra bucks buying my book on Amazon.

Amazon (A Game of Survival): https://www.amazon.com/Game-Survival-Book-One-ebook/dp/B07L34CHYF

And most importantly before signing off, Happy Reading!

So a couple of weeks ago, I watched Unbreakable (after watching Split on its Debut) made by N. Night Shyamalan all because "Glass" the continuation to the twenty year long sequel (Wow, that's the twist right there!). I liked Unbreakable and I liked Split, so I knew I would like Glass. Think of it as Shyamalan's own hero verse, but with normal every day people because those that are around can very well be Heroes - or villains - there just needs to be some kind of push to make that happen. All three male leads Willis, Jackson, and McAvoy did a remarkable job. Shyamalan spun a world of comic book characters, people seen as "mentally" ill, and made a interesting world of it (incidentally, if he doesn't continue this franchise - which I'm sure he will - which by the way were quite a bit of twist; I won't spoil - but watching  this movie got my own "writers gear running lol) But it does make me ponder about my own current WIP and I'm excited even more delve into something similar like Glass (maybe create my own "verse world" who knows). All I know is forget any other "bad" movie you know about M. Night Shyamalan and give Glass a chance (I suggest watching Unbreakable and Split first, but I think the movie can pretty much be made as a standalone, the other sequels just help). Other than that, if you like comic tropes, I think you'll enjoy this.

And here it is, the first post of the New Year; I just have to post that to make a milestone here. So what do I want to say about last year (Ha), well, I wanted to be a published author before 2019 and I did - A Game of Survival can now be accessed on (Ebook) on Amazon, Physical copy is in the works and will be announced the moment it is available - What does that mean for 2019? Well, my dear Blog-Readers, it gives me an open door for 2019 (At least, that's how I looked at it). It's like first walking into Narnia or falling down the rabbit hole, there a million possibilities now that I've entered this fantastical world of the writing world. I plan to make four books to A Game of Survival and then hopefully that will make openings for new and better ideas! I hope your New Years will go swell, whether it has something to do with writing, reading, or wanting to better something about yourself - as long as it makes you happy!
Anyways, I hope you dear people will support me in this New Year for me as a Writer, this has been all I wanted since I was eleven and since I wanted to make my career as a writer.

You can buy my book on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L34CHYF

and for those in countries, you can look for the book here:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07L34CHYF
https://www.amazon.de/dp/B07L34CHYF
https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B07L34CHYF
https://www.amazon.es/dp/B07L34CHYF
https://www.amazon.it/dp/B07L34CHYF

And if you have the time, leave a review on my Amazon and GoodReads account, I'd love to see what you thought! That helps spread the word about my book and makes me a better author!

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43171205-a-game-of-survival

And leaving it on that note, I wish you all A Happy New Years and hope your 2019 is eventful, fruitful, exciting, full of happiness and laughter. This is your year!

 Can you believe it? In six hours it will be New Years Eve (December 31st) and then we'll be that much closer to 2019. Does anyone have any New Years goals in mind? (I say goals because a resolution sounds too intimidating, when you say "goals" you might be more inclined to finish them). After publishing my book and becoming an author before the New Year, I already have one goal that is crossed of my list (Wooh)