The Bestiary Parlor: The Musings of a Zoologist Turned Author

Three wolfish movies. Wolf Shifters, Lycans and Animated Wolves Oh, Howl

2012-01-27T16:53:00.000-08:00

Howlo,
"Breaking Dawn", "Underworld 3D" and "The Grey" have one thing in common in terms of wolfish behavior, they are all fictional. In the first two movies, the wolves were based on the author's universe. "The Grey" also seemed to have created new wolves. Now for some quickie reviews before I lament about a movie that is the polar opposite of "Never Cry Wolf".

"Breaking Dawn" had the wolf shifters not happy with Bella's baby. Death to the half-human vampire. Not a fan of the series but 3 Howls.

"Underworld, The Awakening" had a similar premise: Get rid of the hybrids. Loved lycan claws in 3-D. Fun and Selene is always kick ass. 5 Howls.

"The Grey" starring Liam Neeson was a Hollywoodish man against nature theme, but not as good as "The Edge" with Anthony Hopkins in terms of being realistic. More of a yelp than a howl, though I love Liam Neeson, who as always does a great job. I would give him 4 Howls for acting but the movie gets 1 Yelp.

Wolves are not natural man eat-eaters. In Becky Kramer's The Spokeman's Review article, Wildlife wolf biologist Gary Wiles dreads the portrayal of wolves as do I.

"Wiles describes wolf behavior in the film as “pretty far-fetched.”
Despite the presence of 60,000 wolves in North America, only two human deaths from wolves have been documented in the past 60 years.
One person was killed in Saskatchewan in 2007; the other death occurred in Alaska in 2010. The Saskatchewan death involved wolves that had become habituated to people."

In fact most wolf attacks can be blamed on rabies. I fear that with the re-introduction of the wolf, people will think that packs will come running out of the woods to attack them. These wolves acted more like werewolves and if that was so, I would have liked it better.

Grizzly bears, lions, tigers, and polar bears have been known to stalk humans for food. Go rent:

The lions in "Ghost and the Darkness" were man eaters and are displayed in the Field Museum in Chicago.

Loved "The Edge".

Don't forget what happened to The Grizzly Man. Not saying wolves are not dangerous but rather that the movie did not exhibit real wolf behavior. Even our best friend can turn on us. In 2010, 34 deaths were due to dog attacks(http://dogbitelaw.com/dog-bite-statistics/dog-bite-statistics.html). But really? Why would the wolves go out of their way to kill (not eat) the plane crash survivors? Add rabies to the mix and maybe the story would have been credible.

Which reminds me, I better go walk my dog before he gets an attitude.

Hooty Owl-o-ween. This year's Halloween creature, the owl

2011-10-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

Hooty Owl-o-Ween

Trick or Treat From the Bestiary: The Owl

Last night I was on a night hike in a wooded wetland in Northern Texas. I heard the ‘hoot’ of the Barred Owl (Strix varia).

The Barred Owl’s call sounds like this: "who-cooks-for-you, who-cooks-for-you-all," and "who-who-who-who, who-who-who-whoowha" Listening to their calls and the song of the night insects made me feel in touch with twilight. Click on link to hear their calls

http://youtu.be/Id2A8yC_JJY

These days as the sun sets, we are tuned to electronics from TV to i-pads or driving with our radios blasting. I highly recommend going out in the woods and listening for your local owls and or other night critters. Imagine what hearing the hoot might have sounded like as you rode your horse through the dark forest on your way to deliver a message to King Guy on the Throne.

On Halloween, as you walk down the streets and to the storefronts, you will see a decorative owl or two. Throughout our history and across many cultures, people have had a great fascination with owls. You can spend days, reading about global owl myths and lore. The owl can evoke a series of emotions, from fear to admiration. Owls are associated with witchcraft and therefore a favorite Halloween decoration.

In Romania, vampires were known as Strigoli, from the Roman word, strix, which referred to the screech owl. Strega, which is Italian for witch is also derived from the word, strix. They are also associated with medicine, birth, death, the weather, and wisdom.

According to Paul Johnsgard (North American Owls: Biology and Natural History, Smithsonian Institution Press), Mesopotamian tablets from 2,300 B.C. depict the goddess Lilith as "winged, bird-footed, and typically accompanied by owls," a significant association because Lilith was Sumeria's goddess of death.

Pallas Athene--Greek goddess of fertility and power--was also affiliated with the owl, possibly "because of the nocturnal (and especially the lunar) . . . associations between female fertility goddesses and the cycles of the moon."

Owls have been associated with wisdom. A bird sacred to the Goddess of Wisdom, Athena.

To the ancient Romans, to hear the hoot of an Owl presaged imminent death. The deaths of Julius Caesar, Augustus, Commodus Aurelius, and Agrippa were apparently all predicted by an Owl.

"...yesterday, the bird of night did sit Even at noonday, upon the market place, Hooting and shrieking" (from Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar")

Fortunately, for me and other owl enthusiasts, owl hooting has not presaged our deaths.

Though stumbling over a log in the dark, while listening to hooting can cause injury.

So why has the owl earned a special place in our lore? Especially spooky lore. Allow me to muse.

For one thing owls are crepuscular, which means they come out at the most mysterious time of the day, twilight. The sun is setting, darkness rises and these nocturnal creatures become vocal and active. Man’s fear of the dark, or night has added to the fear of the owl as a harbinger of death.

Owls look so darn human. This is due to the position of their huge eyes. Unlike most birds whose eyes are on the sides of their heads, the owl’s eyes look ahead as our do, and they have to rotate their heads to see all round them, again, as man does, but owls are a bit better at it, their heads can swivel nearly 180 degrees to each side, adding up to nearly 360 degrees. A pretty freaky thing to see.

Here are reasons why Owls appear supernatural:
They swoop in silently because of downy feathers. Without a warning the owl’s powerful talons silently crushes the mouse. Fan an owl’s feather compared to another bird’s feather to hear the difference.

Owls have amazing night vision and can see in almost complete darkness.
Their hearing is also superior and they can pinpoint a mouse’s footsteps despite other ambient sounds. At a raptor center, there was one barn owl that was nervous around a handler. It detected that she had a heart murmur.

They have a ravenous (sorry ravens) appetite. Researchers found that one barn owl family can consume 3,000 voles/year. Owls are our best ally in eating rodent pests. The owl regurgitates undigested bones and fur called owl pellets or castings. Finding such pellets might have inspired ancient people to associate owls with death.

Other reasons why owls contributed to eerie legends:
Often owl vocalizations and screeching cans sound very human and even evil.
Seeing a white owl at night might have been one of the reasons the lore of white ghosts evolved. Even recently mystery lights can possibly be blamed on owls. Or what about those aliens we call the greys with their owlish faces and huge black barn owl like eyes?

Also, owls consume a lot of what we see as vermin, young rats, mice, rabbits and other small mammals who enjoy eating our cash crops or garden veggies. That they also occasionally eat song birds and snakes. Birds will often be seen mobbing owls. Did we identify with diurnal birds who deem the owl as a threat?

So step outside and listen for the owl. If you do, thank him/her for keeping our rodent population down and wish them a Hooty Owl-o-ween. Hoot me comments.

Full Moon Interview with A Zombie

2011-10-11T07:19:00.000-07:00

I have been a fan of zombie apocalyptic movies and books for a long time and I have two works in progress centered around zombies. This full moon, rather than interviewing my usual werewolf guest, I have decided to interview a zombie, Mr.Z (real name is not used since the family only know he is missing).

Where does one go to interview a flesh-eating mindless zombie? The answer is in a secret black ops underground lab somewhere in a desert. I am not allowed to give any more details than that.

How can I interview a mindless zombie? Though they can make sounds, they can no longer speak. However, with the help of Professor M. and the nanochip implanted in the zombie’s brain, Mr. Z’s answers will be interpreted by an advanced computer and sound like Mr. Z talking. Mr. Z will be secured, since he will be reacting to my living flesh and nothing more.

My Interview with Mr. Z

Professor M. gave me a private tour of the underground lab. He explained that prior to Mr. Z’s infection, he was an unemployed store manager who was bitten near the secret lab. The lab was built to support zombie research and to prevent the pestilence.

I sat across from the mid-forties man. He was wheeled in, like The Silence of the Lamb’s Hannibal Lecter, complete with heavy duty straight jacket , mask and strapped in. His eyes widened and he moaned. I felt a rash of goose flesh in that crawling fear of being eaten alive.

His brain was exposed and was wired and soon connected to the computer.

Professor M. : “Go on ask him anything.” He removed his mask and immediately he snapped hungrily at him. Drooling and stuttering a moan, anxious to feed.

Me: “What are you feeling right now?” The computer buzzed and the zombie spoke in a stiff contrived manner, like a puppet. His skin was corpse-gray, and he was bald with thin hair in patches. His body smelled of decaying flesh. Somewhere between the stench of a rotting road kill and a landfill.

Z: “Hunger. Hunger for your brain and guts.” He then snapped his jaw at me.

Me: “So you won’t be satisfied by animal flesh?”

Z: “Only human flesh.”

Me: “Do you remember your past, who you were?”

Z: “No.” He shot out a stuttering moan and turned to me. “I am hunger.”

Professor M: “The zombie’s hippocampus was damaged, but ask him about Jessica and Luther.”

Me: “Do you know a Jessica or a Luther.”

Z: “No. I only want to eat your flesh.” He sniffed and fought his restraints.

Professor: “You asked him if he knows his wife of fifteen years and his twelve year old son.”

Me: “Mr. Z, do you feel pain or sorrow?”

Z: “Only hunger for living flesh.”

Me: “So if you were released, you would attack and do what?”

Z: “Bite the first human I could reach and feed, then find another and another. Feed.”

Me: “Do you feel any emotions?”
Z: “Only rage when I attack to feed.”

Me: “I take it you don’t remember how you ended up a zombie?”

Z: “No.”

Professor: “He took a back road in the desert. One of our escaped zombies got to him. We shot the zombie in the head and brought Mr. Z in and kept him in isolation. On the third day he died and quickly reanimated.”

Me: “So your lab created this zombie virus?”

Professor: “The perfect doomsday biological weapon, but we never meant this to happen.”

Me: “Why keep this lab, why not destroy the zombies you experiment on?”

Professor: “We are determined to find a cure. Besides, other labs around the world have similar zombie labs.”

Me: “And nobody knows.”

Professor: “Best to keep it a secret, otherwise panic would lead to chaos. Like nukes, this a weapon that we hope to never use.”

Me: "Yeah right," I muttered.

Z: He moaned and shook in his straight jacket.

Professor: “Put him pack in his pen.” Black uniformed armed men came in and took him away.

Me: “What can we do if some terrorist releases the virus or another zombie escapes?”

Professor: “Have a vehicle loaded with enough food and water for a month and get as far away from populated areas as possible. Pack guns and rifles, but when you run out of ammo, make sure you have a sharp machete, sword or ax. Keep in mind that the next siren you hear, might not be for an impending tsunami, hurricane or tornado but for zombie attack.

I thanked him for allowing me to see and speak to a real horror movie zombie and happy to return to the Bestiary Parlor. What is stranger than fiction is that there are real cases of zombie disease found in nature. The dreaded zombie-ant fungus.

Blurbs taken from the Guardian about zombie-ant fungus http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2011/mar/02/fungi-zombie-ants-amazon?INTCMP=ILCNETTXT3487

“Records of "zombie-ant fungus" were made in 1859 by Alfred Russel Wallace, the great naturalist and contemporary of Darwin, who found two specimens in Sulawesi in Indonesia. Wallace also collected specimens in the Amazon to bring back to London, but he lost all of his material when his ship, Helen, caught fire and sank on the way home.”

Today, scientists have discovered four new species of fungus that infects ant in Brazil six more species of the fungus in Cairns, Australia, home to some of the oldest rainforests on Earth.

Blurb from the Guardian article:

“The lifecycle of the organism is extraordinary. Ants become infected with the fungus when spores land on them from above, or when they encounter them on the forest floor. Once attached, the spores use enzymes to get inside the ant's body where the fungus begins to grow. Within a week or so, chemicals released by the fungus cause the ant to wander off and bite on to leaf veins and other vegetation, moments before dying. Many ants are found in places where the conditions are perfect for fungal growth.

Once the ant has died, the fungus slowly sprouts from its head and grows a pod of spores which are fired onto the forest floor at night, to infect other ants.

The latest study reveals that some of the fungi produce spores that have a back-up plan if they fail to infect an ant within a day of being released. Spores that rest on the ground slowly grow a secondary spore that juts upright from the forest floor, where it can latch on to ants as they pass.”

If you like mind-control microbes research about Toxoplasma gondii, a bacteria that tricks rats into risky behavior with cats. This microbe needs to be ingested by a cat to continue its lifecycle.

Hmm? I wonder if such microbes are in underground bio weapons labs?

Do pick up Max Brook’s The Zombie Survival Guide and World War Z.

Good idea to also pick up Roger Ma’s The Zombie Combat Manual. Very practical and I like he recommends to stay in shape. Running and doing weights is a good survival skill for when the time comes.

Also, watch The Walking Dead.

Before this event happens I hope to have my own end of the world zombie story out. That would suck if I finished my manuscript and people turned into zombies.

Feel free to ask questions, just know I can’t reveal the secret lab.

Report from Bigfoot Confenrence

2011-10-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

Hi,

Many of you know of my keen interest in cryptozoology and all critters of the Bestiary. In particular Sasquatch.

I just got back from the Texas Bigfoot Research Conservancy conference(TBRC ) held in Tyler, East Texas.

I’m so jazzed as I’m especially interested in analyzing Big Foot (Giganthopithicus) scat to determine what exactly they are eating in the East Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas area.

Just in Texas there are 19 billion acres of dense forest, free of humans. There’s plenty of food both plant and meat to sustain a large species of hominid. Bigfoot is not just a rare species that occurs in the Pacific Northwest or as the Yeti in Nepal, but rather is quite global. Sightings from most of the United States have been reported.

Me and Bigfoot head

Guest speakers included Dr. Jeff Meldrum and Dr. Ian Redmond, amongst a few local authorities on the Texas Bigfoot.

Dr. Meldrum is no light weight. He is a physical anthropologist at Idaho State University and an affiliate curator for the Idaho Museum of Natural History. His research is centered on vertebrate—particularly primate—evolutionary morphology. His formal study of primates began with doctoral research on terrestrial adaptations in African primates, and has since taken him from the dusty skeletal cabinets of far-flung museums to the remote badlands of Colombia and Argentina in search of fossil New World primates, and to Asia to investigate intriguing reports of unknown primates.

As the acting director of the Center for Motion Analysis and Biomechanics (CMAB) Dr. Meldrum is collaborating with engineers, paleontologists, and the Idaho Virtualization Lab, to model the pattern of evolution of the hominid foot skeleton. His interests also encompass the evaluation of the footprints purportedly left by an unrecognized North American ape, commonly known as the sasquatch. He has authored an expanded companion volume to the very successful Discovery Channel documentary, Sasquatch: Legend Meets Science. I have the hard copy version.
He brought a vast collection of fascinating footprint track castings. His lecture included his report to a recent trip to Viet Nam, where an unknown bigfoot like hominid is thought to exist.

Dr. Ian Redmond is a well respected field biologist who has done extensive study on elephants and mountain gorillas. He was once Diane Fossey’s assistant and was there when Digit, the silverback mountain gorilla was killed. He is the documentary filmmaker who introduced Sir David Attenborough to gorillas in 1978 for the famous BBC Life on Earth sequences, and he coached Sigourney Weaver for her award-winning role in the film Gorillas in the Mist (1987).

Me and Dr. Ian Redmond

He is active in numerous conservation groups such as The Ape Alliance www.4apes.com and the UK Rhino Group (www.rhinogroup.org.uk). He is the Chief Consultant and Envoy for GRASP – the UNEP/UNESCO Great Apes Survival Partnership, an organization he helped launch in 2001.

He shares my feeling that we must build trust with this rare North American hominid rather than harming them. Just like Jane Goodall and Diane Fossey did with chimpanzees and gorillas.
I felt so honored to meet Dr. Redmond since he knew Diane Fossey one my personal heroines for her efforts to conserve gorillas. Growing up, I wanted to be Jane Goodall and study chimps in Africa. Perhaps I will study the American giant ape, a possible Giganthopithicus.

The best part of the conference was meeting people who have witnessed Sasquatch individuals. There were hair samples and castings to look at and many DNA labs have reported human-like/primate DNA. Yes, maybe contamination or a close relative of Homo. At least other common species such as bear and coyotes have been eliminated as possibilities.

Listening to recordings of wood knocking and calls reminds me of how the great apes behave and vocalize. Here is the famous Sierra recording:

http://youtu.be/rMkXYzpGx3w

Feel free to ask questions or write comments if you want to learn more. I hope to investigate witness accounts, especially now since deer season is starting. Hunter sightings spike in the fall.

I'm Back

2011-09-09T07:08:00.000-07:00

Dear followers of my Bestiary Parlor musings,

I have been ever busy writing a steampunk novel, a new shifter series and bugging my agent about the books she is trying to sale. We hope to sell my fantasy and wolf maiden chronicles series. Yes, I have my rights back for the first three books in my wolf maiden chronicles series. I have spare copies if you wish to purchase them, just drop me a line. I will keep you posted when they are sold. Naturally they will be revised and updated.

Now back to the Bestiary. I live in a deep forest called the Bestiary where animals both real and mythical can be found. It can only be reached from a portal located in a secret cave. I can travel to other realms but make my home in the Bestiary. I have a part time job as a naturalist at a local museum and wildlife sanctuary so I will spend more time in your realm

I will continue to interview creatures and have arranged with the mysterious Dr. Mansfield to interview a zombie he keeps in Lab Zero. I love zombies and have been a George Romero fan for years.Love the Walking Dead. I enjoyed Max Brook's Zombie Survival books and World War Z. I just bought Roger Ma's The Zombie Combat Manual and I'm ready. Bring it on Zombies!

I will let you know when the interview is up. I will make it to the secret lab in a few weeks.

Got to go. The portal is opening.

Howling to you all! Especially writers. Come sign up for my Wolf Lore Class. Starts July 11, 2011

2011-07-07T12:40:00.000-07:00

Deadline for Registration is July 10

**CLASS BEGINS July 11** Call of the Wild: Wolf Lore, Truths and Myths Every Writer Should Know. Presenter: Eva Gordon. Yosemite Romance Writers. http://www.yosemiteromancewriters.com.

Call of the Wild : Wolf Lore, truths and myths every writer should know about wolves
Instructor: Eva Gordon
Dates: July 11-25, 2011

A three week seminar for writers who are interested in writing about wolves and werewolves in their stories but who want more background on the basic biology and behavior of real wolves. Writers will learn why the wolf evolved from admired archetype to savage, evil nemesis of man. The instructor will include original interviews of a few famous werewolves and the workshop will end with the students creating their own myths based on their created shifter characters.

Eva Gordon, author of paranormal lycan romance and fantasy, has a BA Zoology, MA Biology and a California Secondary Teaching Credential in the Life Sciences. Eva volunteers as a wildlife educator and has volunteered at the Howling Acres Wolf Sanctuary in Southern Oregon. She loves delving into wolf and werewolf lore.

Go to http://www.yosemiteromancewriters.com. For price information

I'm time traveling to the future to catch a vampire from the past

2011-06-10T17:18:00.000-07:00

Dear followers,
I'm all geared up to hunt a vampire from the 1880s who is now in the present. Here I am after going through the aether generated worm tunnel.

Here is the vampire I followed through time.

He is dangerous so do not approach. Only I can reason with him since we have a past. I believe he is in Southern California.

Wish me luck,

Sadie

I will be doing an Author Reading at The Difference Engine Steampunk Summit

2011-06-02T06:39:00.000-07:00

Greetings and Salutations,

I'm steaming through my new steampunk gothic romance series, The Bluestocking Adventure Parlor Club. Hand of Miriam is finished and I'm closing in on the rough draft of book 2. My world is an Alternative Victorian Universe with plenty of paranormal creatures, mad inventors, airships, lots of action and peril and of course a strong romance.

More news to come.

In the meantime I will be doing an author reading about my Wolf Maiden Chronicle series and lecture on writing for this weekend's The Difference Engine Summit.

More info for summit see below:

A One Day Summit!

The Difference Engine is proud to announce a one day summit coming to Fort Worth, Texas.

Date of Event: Saturday, June 4th 2011

Start Time: 10:00 AM - 6/4/11 (Registration opens at 9AM)

End Time: 2:00 AM - 6/5/11

Ticket Price: $20.00 per person & Children 10 & under are free if accompanied by a paid Adult badge. Get Yours Here!

Location & Information: Radisson Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas. 2540 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth TX 76106. Hotel rooms will be $89 a night, and since there is another event taking place there, rooms should be booked ASAP.

Program information will be added as soon as possible. So stay tuned!

Flyer & Additional Information:

Program Schedule:

Jean Auel’s Children of the Earth Series

2011-05-23T17:25:00.000-07:00

Jean Auel’s Children of the Earth Series

I have been a fan of Jean Auel since Clan of the Cave Bear first came out and since then I have identified with Ayla. She is an independent woman, an animal whisperer, inventor, and a healer.

Jondalar, her mate is a hunky hot Cro Magnon. Romance and science. Being a science nerd who writes romance I loved their hot prehistoric love story.

The animal loving zoologist in me just goes gaga with all the Ice Age animals such as horses, mammoths and of course the wolf. My dog is Wolf and I’m Ayla when we go on our run.

I loved her imagery of the epic ice age landscape, respect her research and because of her inspiration and my visit to prehistoric caves in Northern Spain I took up painting cave art as a hobby.

She did her homework.

The great outdoors and shamanism are interests I have in common with Ayla. Imagine all that space and then at night seeing the stars and dancing to drums around a bonfire.

I just finished the last in the series and despite the criticism (Amazon readers gave it bad reviews) about her plotting being repetitive and the Mother’s Song repeated way too many times I still enjoyed it.

I did not mind it when they greeted new friends with long introductions, naming their clan affiliations. It was not the type of plot driven story I’m used to but instead it was written in a journal style that made me feel I was back in the Ice Age. It appealed to the naturalist in me.

Here are the books in order:

1. The Clan of the Cave Bear, 1980

2. The Valley of Horses, 1982

3. The Mammoth Hunters, 1985

4. The Plains of Passage, 1990

5. The Shelters of Stone, 2002

6. The Land of Painted Caves, 2011

I’m also posting a youtube Jean Auel Interview at the Smithsonian Museum. I'm a sucker for Anthropology.

Love to see your comments about the series or the science behind the series.

"I have to say, it was quite a journey"

Full Moon Interview with Domesticated Rabbits (Full Moon is on May 17)

2011-05-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Followers and friendly visitors welcome to Our Full Moon Interview

As you all know rabbits and hares are common residents found in the Bestiary. This also happens to be the Chinese Year of the Rabbit/ Hare (no native species of rabbit in China so traditionally it was the Year of the Hare). In honor of the Year of the Rabbit, I thought this would be a good time to interview a pair of bunnies. First let’s get the classification bit in (I’m in love with Taxonomy, the science of classification).

Scientific Name:
Oryctolagus cuniculus (common name Domestic or European Rabbit )
Class:
Mammalia
Order:
Lagomorpha
Family:
Leporidae

Genus

Oryctolagus (rabbit)

Lepus (hare)

No not all rabbits are that big. The photo above is of a giant Flemish Rabbit.

Note athletic body of hare.

Not sure where the Jackalope fits but that will be another day.

I hope this year we can learn about what the Year of the Rabbit(兔) symbolizes. It is a time when people will acknowledge persuasion is better than force. Diplomacy rather than war-drums. This is also a time when we can make money without too much labor. With the state of world politics and our economy I hope the bunny spirit gets us through tough times.

A person born under the Year of the Rabbit will lead a tranquil life. He/She is reserved, artistic, and a good scholar. The Rabbit is best and needed in the fields of law, politics, and government. My favorite person born in the year of the rabbit is Johnny Depp

Okay, sometimes, Rabbit is more like Bug Bunny, all about seeking his/her own pleasures, moody and sometimes indifferent. Good Bunny/Bad Bunny.

Rabbits have universal importance in other cultures. According to Ted Andrews, author of Animal Speak . (By the way, if you love animal lore and totems, his book is a must on any shelf.)

“Rabbit is associated with Eostra, the Celtic goddess of Spring,
and therefore associated with Ostara (or Easter).

This is the reason we celebrate with Easter eggs.
Rabbit is also sacred to the moon goddess Andraste,
the Norse goddess Freya, and the Greek god Hermes.
The Hare is associated with the moon
in many cultures including Native American, Hindi, and China.”

According to D.J. Conway/Animal Magick:

“Superstitions: The saying "Mad as a March hare" refers to the ferocious fights between male hares during the March mating season. During the Middle Ages in Europe, the hare came to be associated with witchcraft and black magick; they believed only a silver bullet could kill a hare.”

Interesting how silver bullets kill werewolves as well as hares. I would love to see a shifter series with werebunnies.

Hmm. I’m putting that on my books to write list. Not scary enough? Try holding a kicking rabbit. There was a bad 1972 horror movie called Night of the Lepus (1972) about killer rabbits. Here is the trailer.

Children love stories with bunnies.

Basic Rabbit Facts:

Originated from wild rabbits of Central Europe

Cave paintings in Spain show rabbits and hares.

European rabbits were popular Pets during Victorian era.

Rabbits breed all year. Gestation period is between 30 to 32 days. A liter of 3 to 9 bunnies are born and they are blind and naked. Bunnies are independent after 30 days.

Male rabbits are called bucks;female rabbits are does.

Kit and kitten can refer to a young rabbit.


Rabbit Burrow

Okay, running out of time. Let's get started

Today I have the pleasure of interviewing two rabbits that live with my friend Beth(a great humorist and writer and fellow naturalist), her family of humans, canaries, hamsters and one handsome Golden Retriever, named Apollo. I think it’s no longer PC to say pets so I usually say family members, companions and at times familiars.

Bunny Interview:

Eva: Please introduce yourselves.

Violet: Hi, I'm Violet. I'm half lop (from my Mom) and half dwarf from my Dad. I'm four years old.

Peter: I'm Peter. Only rabbits who don't know me call me a dwarf. I'm incredibly macho and tough. I was at the pet store for weeks and no one bought me. Beth saw what no one else did.

Eva: Tell us your age.

Peter: I'm seven.

Eva: How long do you live for?

Violet: We live seven to ten years in captivity, far less in the wild.

Eva: Tell us about your living situation.

Peter: We have hutches surrounded by roomy pens in the front yard. We greet anyone who passes by, in hopes of carrot, or at least a nose rub.

Eva: What do you guys like to eat?

Violet:We eat timothy hay based pellets and fresh cilantro and spring mix. Every once in a while we get a carrot, and when Beth wants to give us medicine, she embeds it in a banana, which is our all time favorite food.

Eva: Do you practice coprophagy?

Peter: Yes, but we mostly eat our initial smooshy poops, not our more well known dry round ones. We don't have the enzyme to break down the ample cellulose in our diet, and so we need to rely on the microbes the live in our large intestine. Unfortunately, that means we must run the food through twice through our digestive systems for the nutrients to be absorbed.

Eva: Is it true male rabbits are sex obsessed? I notice Peter acts enthusiastically.

Peter: Yes, there is a reason Hugh Hefner identifies with us. Being near the bottom of the food chain means we must constantly replenish ourselves.

Eva: I smile. Part of Survival of the Fittest means having more offspring that survive. Are your needs ever met?

Peter: Every once in a while I'll get to visit with a bunny lady. I have been known to hump human legs, which is not as satisfying. Beth should have gotten me neutered years ago, but now I'm too old. Plus, my horniness is part of my personality.

Peter sees above photo: Now that's what I'm talking about.

Eva: Is there any truth in breed like rabbits?

Violet: The gestation period of a rabbit is only a month, and those babies can have babies themselves in a couple months. Best of all, we rabbits have no hang ups about coupling with our siblings, or daughters.

Eva: I chuckle. Just like the Discovery Channel. Speaking of. (My mind always remembers penguins being eaten by leopard seals. Yep, damaged for life.)How do you react to danger?

Peter: We have eyes on the side of our head, so we can see danger. We have those amazing ears too. When I sense danger, I stomp my feet to warn others. Beth thinks the light underside of our tail is a warning for lollylaggers to get running too.

Eva: Tell us about your human family.

Violet: Beth does the vast majority of rabbit care. Walker is the thirteen year old boy who has always identified with my compact macho-ness, Lena is the ten year old girl that used to treat us like stuffed animals and now ignores us. Reese has always ignored us, he tolerates us because he loves Beth.

Eva: What do you think of living with a dog, your born enemy?

Peter: Last July, the family got a golden retriever puppy named Apollo. He barked pitifully when the family went out, but then he discovered me. He sits near my pen, and tries to steal my cilantro and pellets. He even eats my poos when Beth isn't watching. Sometimes Beth lets us sit together. He is my friend, but he acts weird when I hop, so I try to sit still.

Eva: Tell us about your typical day.

Peter: I wake up very early, in hopes that the other pen is open so I can fornicate. Beth checks my water and pellets. I look at the other pen and think about mating. I patrol my pen area like a lion in the savannah. Apollo visits, and tells me about the television show he watched with the family last night. I sunbathe a while, and eat some poo. I eat some more, and pee and poo in my litter box. Beth picks me up and kisses my head. I check out Violet and think about creating a son who is also my grandson.

Eva: Did you do anything special in celebration of the Year of the Rabbit?

Violet: We looked at the rabbit in the moon and were reminded that we rabbits are an important part of the universe.

Eva: Is it really lucky to carry a rabbit's foot?

Peter: He thumps in rage. Anyone who carries a rabbit's foot is cursed by me and all breathen.

Eva: Who always win, turtle or hare and why?

Peter: Well, we rabbits have a short attention span and lack follow through, but who would you rather cuddle?

Eva: Laughs. Definitely a fuzzy little bunny. Hey friends and followers, feel free to ask Violet and Peter any questions. What do you all think of rabbits? Here is a link about Bunny Care and more: Hopper Home

Interview with Tower of London Raven

2011-04-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

Cawing to all my friends who share my spirit guide, the Raven. The entire globe is excited about William and Kate’s Wedding. Those of you lucky enough to be in London, don’t forget to visit the Tower of London Ravens. If you are on this side of the pond, fret not, I have had the opportunity to interview one of the Tower Ravens.

I’m a diehard naturalist who loves scientific nomenclature so let’s give it up for the Common Raven, Corvus corax. (My personal political platform: teach people scientific names again!)

Kingdom: Animalia. This distinguishes animals from, say, plants. We are included in this Kingdom

Phylum: Chordata. This includes all animals which have, at some point in their, a 'notochord' running down the length of their bodies. The spines of vertebrates put them into this category. We share it with the birds.

Class: Aves. All birds are members of this class, whether they fly or not. Feathers and beaks. Sorry, we humans belong to Class Mammalia

Order: Passeriformes. Commonly called the 'songbirds', these are the 'perching' birds... the ones most people think of when they think of birds.

Family: Corvidae. This family includes all the 'crow' type birds, including Magpies, Jays, Nutcrackers, Ravens, and, of course, Crows. The family emerged in the middle Miocene period (23.7 - 5.3 million years ago).
Genus: Corvus. This is the classification especially for ravens and crows. Within this genus are different species of both, but their scientific names all start with 'Corvus'.

Species: Corvus corax. The Common Raven ( Corvus corax) is one species of raven. Another is C. cryptoleucus, also known as the Chihuahuan raven, which lives in the SW United States and Mexico.

Interview with Cedric, Raven from the Tower of London

Eva: Who takes care of you and the others in the flock?

Cedric: The Ravenmaster, also known as a Yeoman Warder. He makes sure we are fed, our cages cleaned and we have all day to do as we please on the grounds. At dusk we return to our mews, usually without protests since at night there are the dangers of fox and cats. After all our wings are clipped so there is no escape.

E: How long has there been a Ravenmaster at the Tower?

C: The post of Ravenmaster only goes back about 40 years. Before that, they were called Yeoman Quartermasters. We have always lived in and around the Tower of London. Our free cousins laugh at us because we are never too far. Even during battles. Humans worry too much, though we don’t mind war too much because it means more meat.

E: What are you fed?

C: Every other day we get a boiled egg and chopped apple, grapes and if we are lucky cheese. The best part is we get fresh meat and even my favorite, roadkill. That is if the Ravenmaster determines it’s not too damaged. We all love blood soaked biscuits. Caw!

E: How many ravens are there in your flock?

C: Always 6, as first decreed by Charles II I (1660-1685) to avoid calamity. On 22 June 1675, the King established the Royal Observatory at the Tower of London, housed in the north-eastern turret of the White Tower. The Royal Astronomer, John Flamsteed (1646-1719), allegedly complained to the King that the birds were interfering with his celestial observations. Charles therefore ordered their demise – only to be forewarned by an obscure soothsayer that: “if the ravens left the Tower, the White Tower would collapse and a great disaster befall the Kingdom”.

E: And are there extra ravens in case anything happens to the ones in the Tower?

C: Absolutely, but they are kept in wildlife parks until needed to serve our country. I’m never too fond on meeting replacements, especially since the humans can’t tell the difference between male and females. Caw! Imagine?

E: Do you enjoy visits from the human tourists?

C: We do rather enjoy teasing them. We like to bark like dogs and perform numerous antics and watch their beakless mouths gape open. Humans think they are the only ones with a sense of humor and even think they are the only ones that can make tools.

E: So you don’t feel inferior to humans?

C: Caaaww! Are you kidding we can fly so we don’t need to invent cars and planes. And we don’t waste food.

E: Right, that ravenous appetite. Moving to a spookier subject. Do you see human ghosts here at The Tower of London?

C: All the time. Old ones, young ones and countless headless ones.

E: Does it spook you to see them?

C: No. We are messengers between the two worlds, this one and the next.

E: Humans think of ravens as magical. Why do you think your presence here at Tower of London protects the British people?

C: It goes back to the tale of Bran the Blessed, the prophetic god-king Bran (which means ‘Raven’) asks that his head be cut off and buried on the White Mount in London, facing the direction of France. As long as his head remained buried there it would protect the kingdom. The Tower of London was later built on the site of the White Mount, and the magical protective power of the buried head was symbolized by our presence, fulfilling Bran’s prophecy and ensures the safety of the realm.

E: Well, thank you for the interview. With the royal wedding bringing in so many visitors to London I’m sure you will get more than the usual visitors.

C: Caww! It will be fun to grab ribbons and feathers from hats.

Want more? Although City of Ravens by Boria Sax is only available in England, I’m sure City of Ravens will soon make it to America.

City of Ravens

The true history of the legendary birds in the Tower of London

Boria Sax

· ISBN 9780715640814

· May 2011

· £12.99 / Hardback, 256 pages

· Subject: History

‘Boria Sax’s book City of Ravens ... is both a delight and a profound illumination of his subject.’ Esther Woolfson, author of Corvus

‘Boria Sax traces the history of the ravens in the Tower of London, with accurate scholarship and engaging stories. Sax . . . reveals both the symbolic power and the true magic of the Tower Ravens today.’ John Marzluff, author of In the Company of Crows and Ravens

Want good music: Listen to Corvus Corax!

Off To RT Convention and up dates

2011-04-03T06:58:00.000-07:00

This week I fly to Los Angeles, CA for the Romantic Times Convention. Yes, of course I'll be on a dirigible not an airplane. On the left is my picture in my proper explorer attire for the Dallas All Con steampunk convention I attended.

At RT I will be attending fun workshops and picking up freebies. On Friday I will be presenting on How to be a Dialogue Diva Panel. We each get to discuss some aspect of genre dialogue. I get to discuss dialogue in steampunk, paranormal and fantasy novels.

Here is an example of what we mean by dialogue:

"You talkin’ to me? (Taxi Driver, 1976)

It's no accident that some of the most memorable moments in movies come from dialogue. Who can forget “Go ahead, make my day,” “Beam me up, Scotty,” “Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn” and so many more? Just as in the movies, dialogue in your book must do much of the storytelling while adding pace and drama to your work. Promising plenty of fun and laughter, this session explores the five key jobs dialogue has to do, looks at the starring roles your hero and heroine should play and how to keep your stars happy with the lines you write for them. Panelists: Eileen Dreyer aka Kathleen Korbel, Valerie Parv, Eva Gordon and Mary Louise Schwartz (scriptwriter and Hollywood literary agent specializing in books into film)

My character from my werewolf novels would say:

"You growling at me?"

If you want to learn more please follow this link:

www.rtconvention.com

On my return I will have an interesting line up of guests for my Bestiary Parlor interviews. Stay tuned for more up dates in a couple weeks.

Thank you for the Blog Award!!

2011-03-24T14:09:00.000-07:00

Thank You Rainy of the Dark for the Award

http://www.rainyofthedark.com/2011/03/awards-were-you-nominated/

Interview with Little Golden-Hood about her Encounter with the Wolf

2011-03-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

The story is my favorite version of Little Red Riding Hood and is different from the Brothers Grimm version. This version is found in The Red Fairy Book by Andrew Lang who derived his tale from the works of Charles Marelles. Andrew Lang (1844-1912) was a Scottish poet, novelist, anthropologist and was an avid collector of folk and fairy tales. By the way the University of St. Andrews, which Kate and William attended and met, was named after him.

My interview is not with the child but with Golden-Hood as a grown woman. We met at my favorite cafe.

My goal was to hear about her long ago encounter with the wolf and the magic that saved her. Or did it?

The door opens and I see a tall confident beautiful woman with long dark hair, however she does not wear a golden-hood but a red cloak.

Me: “Welcome and please introduce yourself”

B: “Merry Meet, my name is Blanchette of the Wood, once known as Little Golden-Hood.”

Me: “Why were you nicknamed Golden Hood?”

B: “ When I was a child my grandmother who knew of the old ways made me a magical golden cloak from the rays of sunshine. It would forever bring me luck and protect me. I used to wear it everywhere. Soon all the villages throughout knew me as Little Golden-Hood.”

Me: “What do you mean your grandmother knew of the old ways?”

B: “My grandmother was a witch and was so old could not remember her true age. Yet she was very powerful. So powerful that not even the witch hunters gave her trouble.”

Me: “Where did you live?”

B: “Our village was high in the mountains at the edge of the wood. My grandmother lived across the wood near her village’s windmill.”

Me: “What happened on the way to Grandma’s house?”

B: “My mother made grandmother cake and instructed me to take it to her. She told me not to stop to chatter and especially not with strangers. On the way a wolf, bigger than most and with the ability of speech stepped in front of me. He introduced himself as Friend Wolf and asked where I was going.”

Me: “You must have been frightened”

B: “I was but I was a foolish girl and told him I was visiting my grandmother and describe her cottage. He knew of the house and that he would get there fast and tell my grandmother I was on my way.”

Me: “I wonder why he didn’t attack you in the middle of the wood?”

B: “Not too far from where we spoke were wood-cutters and he knew my screams would attract them. He dashed away and I took my time. It was spring and I enjoyed picking daisies, and watching birds building nests. I even put my basket down for a moment to chase butterflies. Like my grandmother I enjoyed the natural world.”

Me: “So what happened when you arrived to Grandmother’s house?”

B: “What I didn’t know then was that Grandmother had gone to the town to sell herbs. Unaware I knocked on the door. “Toc, Toc.” The voice that answered was raspy and almost sounded like a growl. I was told to come in and I immediately asked Grandmother if she had a cold? Back then so many died of the Black Death that I felt my heart race, thinking she may be ill. The wolf that lay under the covers coughed to play along with his deception."

Me: “And you didn’t recognize the wolf?”

B: “No, it had cleverly disguised itself in Grandmother’s nightwear and cap. But then as I moved closer she began to remind me of Friend Wolf. Here is what I remember about our conversation:

'Oh!' How like you are to friend Wolf, Grandmother!'

'That's on account of my night-cap, child,' replies the Wolf.

'Oh! what hairy arms you've got, Grandmother!'

'All the better to hug you, my child.'

'Oh! what a big tongue you've got, Grandmother!'

'All the better for answering, child.'

'Oh! what a mouthful of great white teeth you have, Grandmother!'

'That's for crunching little children with! 'And the Wolf opened his jaws wide to swallow me.

I called, “Mama!” and ran. He was only able to grab hold of my golden hood.

He then howled as the hood burnt his tongue. In agony he continued to howl and desperately tried to get out but Grandmother arrived just in time.

She nabbed him into her magical sack and then threw him down the well where he drowns.” She smoothed her cloak. “My golden-hood was torn but years later after I apprenticed with Grandmother she gave me this red cloak.”

Me: “And now it’s been twenty years and surely you must know this was no ordinary wolf?”

B: “No he was not. He was a werewolf and well known to have killed many.”

Me: “Do you stay away from the wood?”

B: Blanchette smiles with a toothed grin. “No, I live deep in the forest. Away from the village.”

Me: “But why?”

B: “You see before I leapt from the bed, the wolf managed to nip me. Just a pinch, not a savage bite, but enough to curse me with lycanthropy.”

Me: It was then that I noticed a fine layer of fur on her arms and her pointed ears. She removed her cap and it was then that I saw her true appearance.

B: She smiled with fine glistening fangs. “Don’t worry I’m not a bad wolf.” She stood and bowed. “Nonetheless, I must leave and tend to my cubs. They get quite rambunctious during the full moon.”

Me: “I was astonished at such a twist in fate. Yet I knew I was looking at a good parent. As a mother what advice do you give your children?”

B:“Never talk to strangers, especially humans.”

Me: A howl outside the café prickled my skin. “Another werewolf?”

B: “My mate.” She left and sauntered into the deep wood.

So I concluded my interview with Blanchette. If you like Little Red Riding Stories I highly recommend The Company of Wolves.

I hope you enjoyed this brief interview and come by again to meet another fantastical creature from my Bestiary Parlor.

4 Howls for Red Riding Hood for Fun YA movie

2011-03-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

I did not have high expectations but must admit I loved the imagery and the sweet Twilight-like Romance. I'm also a sucker for all the versions of Little Red Riding Hood. Next full moon I will be interviewing my favorite version, TBA soon. Anyway, the story revolved around a small village at the edge of the forest with a big canine problem. Like Twilight there are two hot guys who like the same girl. Amanda Seyfried plays Red Riding Hood. Shiloh Fernandez plays Peter (was he named after Peter and the Wolf?).

Max Irons plays love interest number 2, Henry, the rich blacksmith's son.

Unlike Jacob from Twilight, these guys keep their shirts on. Must be the cold temperatures.

Gary Oldman plays the tormented Werewolf Hunter (his story is based on an old legend). He has a creative way to make you confess to being a werewolf. Racks and thumb screws are so yesterday, though his technique is not cost effective. Not 'green'.

The grandmother is definitely baby boomer, not like sweet plump old granny from older versions. Very new age.

If you pay close attention you get to see the 3 little pigs, a man in sheep's clothing and big bad wolf "my what big features you have" references. The werewolf is typical Hollywood. There is the full moon, silver used to kill the beast, its aversion to holy ground and its bite that will turn one into a werewolf.

The audience is kept guessing on who the werewolf is. Though in the beginning there is a subtle hint. No spoilers here. Could be anyone. In my town I think the werewolf was my former math teacher.

Who is the werewolf in your neck of the woods? Could it be Charlie Sheen? No, Duh! He has tiger not wolf blood. Nonetheless, I never let my kids talk to strangers.

I liked the village. No city distractions and they really know how to throw a fun celebration with cool masks.
Village occupations seems to be woodcutters, blacksmiths, priests, mask makers, pig farmers and healers. Do they have high unemployment? They apparently outsource the production of silver swords. There were no school but maybe they closed because of the economy. I bet the kids are home schooled. There was one pub. Not sure about the menu. The village is alpine but no one seemed to complain about the cold. We are such wimps. We wear snow boots, gloves, down jackets and have snow days. So that's why there was no school.

What would be your occupation in Red Riding Hood's village?

The werewolf was the super-sized variety seen in Twilight and in my novels. Real wolves are about the size of a German Shepard. No real wolves used in the making of this movie. Using the lycanthrope werewolf, like in 'The Howling' type might have turned the movie into a horror. What is your preference?

The music was modern meant perhaps for the teen audience. I would have preferred music by Medieval bands such as Corvus corax, Medieval Babes or Nox Arcana. What do you all think?

My favorite part was grandmother's cool home in the woods. What a cool place to write my werewolf novels. Totally off the grid. Then again, I would need internet service.

I also found the ending satisfying. Feel free to let me know what you thought of the movie and or the answers to my questions. Here are some folks that read this blog;

Gary Oldman

My favorite wolf reporter.

Red Riding Hood trailer

2011-03-06T05:35:00.000-08:00

Feel free to drop reviews about the movie. I especially want to hear from werewolves, grandmas, woodsman and young village girls who are partial to red hoods. Will it be 5 howls or not even a yelp?

On the next Full Moon (March 19) I plan to interview the more traditional Red Riding Hood

Happy Lupercalia! Wolf Valentine’s Day!

2011-02-11T13:04:00.000-08:00

How an ancient Roman holiday inspired my werewolf universe.

My readers know I use this ancient Roman festival in my paranormal romance werewolf novels. In my universe it is the time when lycans are most fertile, find their mates or play naughty werewolf games. I use some of the rituals below, with the exception of sacrificing the dog in my lycan festival. The Lupercal, the cave where Romulus and Remus were suckled by the she-wolf is what I call the ruling governing party run by 12 female alpha lycans. Below are some facts about Lupercalia from several sources on the web.

“The Origins of the Lupercalia

The Lupercalia was started to honor a forgotten fertility god, but the during the Augustan period, the god Lupercus had been invented to explain the festival, according to the Dictionary of Roman Religion. Adkins and Adkins, authors of the book, state that Faunus might have been the god the Lupercalia.

The Lupercalia Festival Itself

The festival was held on February 15th, the day after the modern Valentine's Day Celebration. The month of February occurred later in the Roman calendar. Celebrants would gather at the Lupercal cave on the Palatine Hill in Rome, where Romulus and Remus were suckled by their adoptive wolf mother, according to Roman legend.

Luperci Priests made sacrifices of goats and dogs as part of the festival, and two young people were smeared by the blood of the sacrifice and then wiped away by wool dipped in milk. As part of the Lupercalia celebration, young men would go through the streets whipping people with goat skins to encourage fertility.

The youths then donned loincloths made from the skin of the goat and led groups of priests around the pomarium, the sacred boundary of the ancient city, and around the base of the hills of Rome. The occasion was happy and festive. As they ran about the city, the young men lightly struck women along the way with strips of the goat hide. It is from these implements of purification, or februa, that the month of February gets its name. This act supposedly provided purification from curses, bad luck, and infertility.
Long after Palentine HIll became the seat of the powerful city, state and empire of Rome, the Lupercalia festival lived on. Roman armies took the Lupercalia customs with them as they invaded France and Britain. One of these was a lottery where the names of available maidens were placed in a box and drawn out by the young men. Each man accepted the girl whose name he drew as his love - for the duration of the festival, or sometimes longer.
As Christianity began to slowly and systematically dismantle the pagan pantheons, it frequently replaced the festivals of the pagan gods with more ecumenical celebrations. It was easier to convert the local population if they could continue to celebrate on the same days... they would just be instructed to celebrate different people and ideologies..
Lupercalia, with its lover lottery, had no place in the new Christian order. In the year 496 AD, Pope Gelasius did away with the festival of Lupercalia, citing that it was pagan and immoral. He chose Valentine as the patron saint of lovers, who would be honored at the new festival on the fourteenth of every February. The church decided to come up with its own lottery and so the feast of St. Valentine featured a lottery of Saints. One would pull the name of a saint out of a box, and for the following year, study and attempt to emulate that saint.”
In a sense I think we have gone back to a weird form of Lupercalia lovers lottery I call it computer dating. True, you do still get to learn about the person, but do you really? It really is like drawing a date out of a lottery.

Check out my 5 Star Reviews on Amazon For White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight

2011-01-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

http://www.amazon.com/White-Wolf-Avalon-Werewolf-Knight/dp/1935407325/ref=tmm_pap_title_0

Brief Blurb:

White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight is the story of the secret society of lycans that reside in ancient Britain. Bledig, an orphan raised by a childless couple near the magical Isle of Avalon dreams of someday becoming a knight of the Round Table. Bledig refuses to become a beast and wants no part in marrying a wolf maiden and begetting lycan children. Annora, a Romano Greco wolf maiden, is more interested in intellectual pursuits than romantic ones. She is a scribe and historian who prefers to marry an older alpha lycan who might better understand her need to focus on her writings. As Annora travels up north to meet with her brother and family, they are attacked by Gorlagon's she-lycan, Trivia, and her pack of warrior lycans. In the wilderness, Annora and Bledig meet. She is the beautiful woman he has dreamt of nightly while heading to retrieve his brother s moonstone. He, the knight in shining armor she had fantasized about, brave, handsome and chivalrous. Their attraction is instantaneous. She is stunned to learn he is a lycan, the white wolf destined to unite all the lycans of Britain. Her mate. Danger lurks everywhere. Gorlagon and Gargol have not given up on their hunt to find Annora and the Pict wolfen she released from his dank dungeons. But most of all they wish to use her as a breeder. Intrigue and secrecy abound in King Arthur's court at Camulod. Mordred, Arthur's son by his own sister, Morgause, plots to rule. He has become Gorlagon's secret Lupercii in the hopes of having a lycan army to defeat his father in battle. Will Bledig reject his true destiny as the prophesized lycan leader of Britain, and most importantly, can he deny his feelings for the lovely wolf maiden, Annora, who has already captured his heart and soul? Can Annora survive the lycans who hunt her? Will Bledig finally submit to his lycan nature and forever claim her as his wolf maiden? Will magic save their kind, the fae of Avalon and King Arthur's Britain?

Full Moon in January is the Wolf Moon

2011-01-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

Imagine the chill cold of the deep January winter. Game is scarce and your pack grows hungry. Beneath the crystal globe of the full moon you and the other wolves in your pack howl. Native tribes from New England to Lake Superior hear your songs. Your voice is heard and the people of the land name the January full moon the Wolf Moon in your honor.

Music I listen to while writing my gothic steampunk novel

2011-01-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

Time Travelling until Febuary 2011

2010-12-20T07:41:00.000-08:00

Dear Followers,
I must time travel to Victorian England for the next month, hence, my lack of blogs lately. Busy working on my aether time portal machine.

I need to leave as the portal opens on this Winter Solstice. The total Eclipse tonight will enhance my passage. The last time this eclipse coincided with Winter Solstice was 456 years ago.

As you can see I'm packed and ready to go. Will be taking plenty of notes to work on my Steampunk series.
On my return I will go further back into time and interview the Neuri.

Cheers,

Full Moon : Next Month I will interview members of the Neuri

2010-11-22T06:57:00.000-08:00

In my den

2010-11-19T15:42:00.000-08:00

Hi friends,
I have been spending a lot of time in my den writing but want to let you know that I plan to do more interviews and discuss 'wolfish'topics.

So what's been happening with me?

I now have an agent who is working really hard on getting editors to read, Lycan Gladiator, Wolf Cavern, a fantasy Gaia’s Keeper and my epic fantasy trilogy, Mystic Stone of Tenth Realm. I patiently await word. I’m a big fan of steampunk (I prefer Victorian attire and traveling by dirigible.). I am currently working on two novels in that that genre.

Celebrate Autumn with Night Owl Reviews Autumn Harvest Web Hunt

2010-10-28T16:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to check out my novels and my website.Eva's Website At the moment my agent has submitted more novels with several houses and am back in my den writing more stories.
I promise to continue interviewing more werewolves on each full moon.

Call of the Wild: Wolf Lore, truths and myths every writer should know about wolves.

2010-10-12T18:37:00.000-07:00

classes@heartsthroughhistory.com

Hearts Through History Class

Here is the info from their webpage.

Class: Call of the Wild : Wolf Lore, truths and myths every writer should know about wolves
Instructor: Eva Gordon
Dates: October 18 –30, 2010

Registration Deadline: October 17, 2010
Fee: $10/HHRW members, $20/others
Click HERE for Registration Form
FMI: HHRW Campus Coordinator: classes@heartsthroughhistory.com

Class Description:

A two week seminar for writers who are interested in writing about wolves and werewolves in their stories but who want more background on the basic biology and behavior of real wolves. Writers will also learn why the wolf evolved from admired archetype to savage evil nemesis of man.

Part 1.

1. Introduction

2. Wolf Natural History

A. Basic Biology

B. Wolf Behavior

Part 2.

3. Wolf Lore in Europe and Central Asia

A. Wolf as totem

B. Wolf as enemy of man

Bio:

Eva Gordon, BA Zoology, MA Biology, California Secondary Teaching Credential in the Life Sciences. She volunteers as a wildlife educator and has volunteered at the Howling Acres Wolf Sanctuary in Southern Oregon. She loves doing presentations on wolf and werewolf lore. She writes paranormal romance and fantasy novels. She is author of the Wolf Maiden Chronicles. Werewolf Sanctuary is book 1 followed by Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf and White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight. With many more coming in the series. Her epic fantasy trilogy, Mystic Stone of the Tenth Realm hopes to find a publisher with the help from her agent. She loves delving into werewolf lore and writes what she calls her ‘werewolfhistoricals’ romance novels. She also pursues non-fiction scholarly research on global werewolf lore.

Eva Gordon
Author of Paranormal and Fantasy Romance
http://www.ravenauthor.com
http://evagordon.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/evagordon
ISBN: 978-1-935407-30-0 for Werewolf Sanctuary
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jyudh6g4ls8

Format: Course is conducted via Yahoo Groups email with lessons and Q&A

For additional information, contact the Campus Coordinator.

Corvus Corax, my new favorite band.

2010-09-30T07:43:00.001-07:00

Many of you know my power animal is the raven. I just recently discovered the German band, Corvus Corax (scientific name for the raven) and I can't get enough of their music. They rock!!!!

Full Moon Blog Lessons from the Wolf Series Running with Wolves for your Body and Happiness and Soul.

2010-09-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

Many of us sit at our jobs or because of our long list of commitments have very little or no time to do what are bodies are adapted for, namely walking long distances and running across the large expanse of land. At night our ancestors danced and drummed around the fire, an activity that added to our physical health and reinforced social bonds. In ancient times the balance of eating enough, exercise and physical safety were quite different than they are now for most of us who live in modern first nation countries. Back then starvation haunted us and danger was always around the corner.

Today danger is not a constant threat. No more running from hungry lions or barbaric invaders. Yes, there is the natural disaster and home invader but for the most part we are safe in our home or work space. Life in our modern world can be daunting, though. Obesity and other stress related diseases are on the rise. We have an abundance of food and like every animal we will eat until we burst because our biological mind does not know when we will eat again. However, our logical mind knows we will always have food but when we are stressed or unhappy we eat for comfort. Calories go in but are stored due to our lack of exercise. We are out of balance.

D.M. Bramble and D.E. Lieberman (Nature 2004) work stated that "striding bipedalism is a key derived behavior of hominids that possibly originated soon after the divergence of the chimpanzee and human lineages. Humans perform remarkably well at endurance running, due to skeletal features. The fossil evidence of these features suggests that endurance running is a derived capability of the genus Homo, originating about 2 million years ago, and may have been instrumental in the evolution of the human body form."

We are born to run. Like us wolves have long legs and according to Barry Lopez (Of Wolf and Men) they have "masterfully adapted feet give the wolf endurance over long distances and agility in challenging terrain.

Wolves walk on toes equipped with pads that, although calloused to prevent cuts, are soft nonetheless. Wolves have been clocked at top speeds of 35 to 45 miles per hour when sprinting and can bound and leap as far as 16 feet. Even more impressive than their speed and athleticism, however, is their stamina. Wolves have been known to travel as far as 120 miles in a single day Pack members average 10 to 20 miles a day, depending largely on the availability of food and whether or not there are pups to feed."

Humans and wolves ran, hunted, and have migrated great distances in search for food and other resources. It was hard, but the health benefits have endured. Running is great for building stronger bone, stamina, heart, balance, posture, staying lean, energy getting vitamin D from the sun, and stress reduction. Not to mention fun. Watch kids running during recess or wolves at play.

The cool thing about going on a run is you can do it with your ‘wolfish’ companion, the dog. Like a wolf you can take to the forest mountain trails or open plains. Personally, when I run with my standard poodle (he’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing) I prefer trails away from cars and other reminders of civilization. Running allows me to pretend we are running in search of prey (a giant soy flavored tofu burger). Below is my running buddy, who is enjoying my first novel after a good run.

Best of all running allow my wild side to emerge. My imagination explodes. To quote Clarissa Pinkola Estés (Women Who Run with the Wolves: Contacting the Power of the Wild Woman) "Be wild; that is how to clear the river. The river does not flow in polluted, we manage that. The river does not dry up, we block it. If we want to allow it its freedom, we have to allow our ideational lives to be let loose, to stream, letting anything come, initially censoring nothing. That is creative life.”

Okay, so running is not your thing. Next blog will be on Dancing with Wolves.

Leaving My Den and Spreading My Wings

2010-09-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

Howlo,

Happy to be leaving my den after preparing two new wolf maiden novels and a historical novel (not werewolf, but yes as always an alpha male and an adventurous intelligent woman). Still waiting for word on a publisher for my epic fantasy trilogy and the rest of my finished novels. I'm happy my agent believes in me and is doing her best to help it this crazy process.

Coming soon: A blog on running and dancing with wolves and a wolf lore seminar for Hearts through History RWA group on October 18. I hope to soon interview another werewolf for the full moon but in the meantime go to my archives for past interviews.

Do check out my novels in case you need a fix for paranormal werewolf stories that take place now or during historical times. Give me a howl if you have any questions.

Book Signing in LA at Metropolis Bookstore

2010-07-31T08:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,
I've been busy running in the woods or hiding in my den writing my latest novel, however, I promise to continue my wolfish interviews. So I'm heading to LA and hoping to meet some urban werewolves and like individuals. Here is the info listed from the Metropolis website.

Saturday, August 7th, 2010 (4:00 PM)

440 S. Main Street
Los Angeles, CA 90013

info@Metropolis
BooksLA.com

Eva Gordon

Eva Gordon writes fantasy and paranormal novels with a strong romantic element. Werewolf Sanctuary is Book 1 in her epic Wolf Maiden Chronicles, a paranormal romance series involving male alpha lycans and their human mates known as wolf maidens. Werewolf Sanctuary is a contemporary that will lead to all the other historical paranormal tales in the Wolf Maiden Chronicles. Book 2 in the series, Beast Warrior :Viking Werewolf, takes place during the Viking era. White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight will follow in March 2010.
She loves to create stories that combine her passion for mythology, romance and werewolf lore. She also writes fantasy novels and is in the process of finding a house to publish a trilogy and a stand-alone fantasy novel. Eva has a BS in Zoology and graduate studies in Biology. She has taught high school Biology, Environmental Science and Anatomy/Physiology. Her background in science and her passion for wildlife biology adds credibility to her writings. She also moonlights as a faculty member of the Grey School of Wizardry, an online school for kids and adults interested in magic and lore.
A member of Romance Writers of America, Eva has also teaches workshops on the paranormal, werewolf/wolf lore and falconry for writer groups. Eva is an expert on werewolf lore and hopes to someday get a PhD in the subject. Eva is a world traveler and loves visiting the places where her novels take place. She lives in Northern California with her husband and children. She also shares her home with an almost human standard poodle. In her spare time she loves outdoor activities and volunteering at animal sanctuaries.

Full Moon Howling

2010-06-22T18:21:00.000-07:00

Calling all werewolves. Come in and tell us about how you feel when your paws touch the soft ground, running with the pack or alone or just howling under the bright moon.

There is a wolf in all of us. Let her out.

Running in the Woods

2010-05-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

I have been quiet of late. Like the wolf I crave my moments in the deep forest. So off I went to the Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Forest to roam in the woods.

My den or cabin stay in the Sierra. Every wolf needs a warm den for the night.

Like the wolf I enjoyed being on top of my mountain. Here I am on break from a hike to Mist Falls in Kings Canyon NP.

Like the wolf I love the aromatic scents and sounds of the forest.

Like the wolf I'm awed by the trees. Here I am hugging a Sequoia tree.

A break from technology gets you in touch with the spirit of nature and its grandeur.

The magic is everywhere.

Turn off the cell phone, computers, television, social networking and i-every things. Step outside and howl at the moon.

New review by Raven Kelly about Werewolf Sanctuary

2010-04-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

Eva Gordon 's " Book 1: Werewolf Sanctuary "

Werewolf Sanctuary is an amazing book that never once lagged. I was captivated right from the beginning where I learned of Wyatt's quest to find a vet who could cure his wolf cubs from a rare virus. I had trouble putting down this book, it had me always wanting to read more. If you have never read a werewolf book, this is great book to start with. You will be hooked from the first chapter. This was my first werewolf book, and I just loved it!
Raven Kelly -Webmistress and Book Reviewer of Vampiress.ca

4.5 Fangs out of 5!

Full Moon Interview with Raven that Created Wolf from Pacific Northwest Athabascan Myth

2010-04-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Interview with Raven that Created the Wolf

Welcome back to the Werewolf Café for my Full Moon interviews with werewolves, wolves and like and magical creatures. Today our guest is Raven. Not just any raven but Raven from the Pacific Northwest Athabascan legend.

For those of you who are not aware of the ubiquitous black bird of not only Native American but European lore let me say a few words. The raven is the largest member of the corvid family, which includes crows, jays, magpies, jackdaws, treepies and rooks. The scientific name is Corvus corax. The can be differentiated from the common crow by being larger, have a deep purple-blue cast to its black feathers, the beak is thicker and its tail is wedge shaped.

Ravens are extremely intelligent and communicate with sophisticated vocalizations. They are often referred to as wolfbirds and are often in the company of the wolf pack. They scavenge huge amounts of wolf kill and some studies believe they lead the wolf to the prey. To me the raven is my spirit guide. When I do drumming I journey as a raven. It was my raven that led me to the wolf.

The Native Americans revered ravens, considering them to possess magic and big medicine. Let me first share a peaceful video I found on youtube titled Raven Magick.Journey with the raven and then join me with my interview with Raven.

Interview with Raven creator of the Wolf (Pacific Northwest Atabascan Myth)

Eva: I open the window and a big black raven swooshed in and sat on the table. “Welcome Raven.”
Raven: “Caw! Thank you for inviting me to discuss my greatest creation.” It fluffed its blue black feathers and drank from the wine cup I offered.
Eva: “You are creator of all. Before we talk about the wolf, what other things have you created?”
Raven: “I made the mountains and sea. I then painted them with great colors and then left the snow white. I created the deer, caribou, bears, birds, and all the trees. I made plants for food and medicine and taught all my creatures to communicate with them. Humans loved the life I created, but something was missing. I decided to make a creature to be a teacher for human beings.”
Eva: “What qualities did this creature have?”
Raven: “The creature had to have intelligence, courage, strength, humor and compassion.”
Eva: “Sounds like the wolf. Did this first creature look like a modern day wolf?”
Raven: Creator raven bobbed up and down, perhaps in mirth before continuing. “I gave wolf a long snout, sharp teeth, strong swift legs, and sharp pointed ears. The wolf was white like fresh snow. I added feathers to its front legs so that it would accompany me in flight.”

Eva: “Really, the first wolf could fly?”
Raven: “Caaww. The feathers did not support him. Poor Wolf flapped his front legs hard but instead of flying, it plunged to the ground.”
Eva: “Did he die?”
Raven: “No, but , Wolf fell so hard his fur turned from white to grey with the tips black from the burning. Though I would miss flying with my creation, I decided it was best for Wolf to stay on the ground and walk on four feet. I created a family of wolves to accompany my wolf creation. They would come in all colors and with eye colors from amber, brown and shades of grey.”
Eva: “Did you visit them?”
Raven: “I flew down and taught them how to hunt. I taught them to pray for good hunting and how to call in game. I instructed them to watch for ravens and crows, for my kind would guide them to food.

Eva: “That explains why ravens and wolves are seen together.”
Raven: “The ravens taught them how to play and tease and how to protect their food from others.”
Eva: “Did they know they were a model for humans on how to behave?”
Raven: Yes, I taught them especially how to be respectful and all the traits humans must learn from them I mentioned earlier; courage, humor and compassion. I spend a long time on how they are to be the teachers of all creatures.”

Eva: “You did a wonderful job. Many of us love the wolf as our teacher animal. They are admired for their loyalty to their pack and their keen intelligence. Though in our past we viewed the wolf as an evil creature today we see them as a reminder of our connection with Mother Earth. They are the ancestor to our dogs, our most loyal of pets. We no longer live near wolves so it’s nice to have a dog.”
Raven: “The dog has enough wolf in it to be the best of teachers.”
Eva: I listened as joyful howls drifted into the café from the nearby mountain. Tonight’s full moon was almost as bright as the sun itself.
Raven: “The wolves are thanking both the moon and sun for sharing light and beauty.”

Eva: Raven looked anxious to join his children. “Thank you for coming and sharing the story on you created the wolf.”
Raven: “Caaaww. The pleasure was mine.”

Eva: It spread its mighty ebony wings and flew out the window. I watched Raven fly until it landed on a huge branch.

It joined its wolf children by howling with them at the moon. I watched and listened until it flew away into the realm of spirit. I uttered a prayer of thanks for sharing my world with both raven and wolf.

Happy Earth Day

2010-04-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

I want to share this great video I found on youtube by geornata about endangered species.

Howling from The Parafactor radio show

2010-04-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

Greetings and good howls,

Letting you all know that I will be interviewed on www.theparafactor.com
on April 20th 6-7pm Pacific Time (9-10pm Eastern time) about my Wolf Maiden Chronicles series and on werewolves.

White Wolf of Avalon : Werewolf Knight Now Avalable!

2010-03-20T08:01:00.000-07:00

Bitten By Books 5 STAR Review of White Wolf of Avalon

White Wolf Of Avalon: Werewolf Knight by Eva Gordon
Posted: 13 Mar 2010 07:20 AM PST
White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight is the third book in author Eva Gordon’s Wolf Maiden Chronicles series. The book takes place in Fifth Century Britain and works in the King Arthur myth alongside the author’s own mythology.

Sir Bledig, the Iron Fist of the Round Table, does not want anything to do with his werewolf heritage, or the destiny that is foretold about him. By age 21 Bledig has been in many battles alongside King Arthur against King Aelle and his Saxon army. He wishes to marry a human wife, and break the curse that is passed down to a werewolf’s offspring if they mate with a wolf maiden. Bledig is put to the test when he meets a young wolf maiden named Annora. Bledig must come face to face with the foretold destiny even if it is the last thing he wants.
Lady Annora of Londinium Augusta has been promised by her brother to Gargol the younger brother of the Alpha wolf of Britain Gorlagon. Upon arriving Annora finds Gorlagon to me an evil man, and is thrown into the dungeon. There Annora meets a pack leader named Kaie, and with each other’s help escapes from Gorlagon’s fortress. Annora finds help with an alpha wolf named Bledig, who she finds attracted to instantly. Though she doesn’t understand how any alpha wolf can hate their existence the way Bledig does. Annora hopes she can show Bledig that being a wolf is a part of him that shouldn’t be cured.
The story molds both the King Arthur mythology and the Wolf Maiden Chronicles mythology together very well. As in her previous two books Eva Gordon manages to find a nice balance between the action and the romance. Both men and woman will find enough in this story to be satisfied. The author has managed to create great adversaries in all three of the Wolf Maiden Chronicle books. Gorlagon and his younger brother Gargol are no exceptions. You are strongly rooting for the hero Bledig against the two brothers by the end of the story.
Book Stats:
 Paperback: 300 pages
 Publisher: Vanilla Heart Publishing (March 25, 2010)
 Language: English
 ISBN-10: 1935407325
 ISBN-13: 978-1935407324
5 Stars

This Werewolf Wednesday: Please Help Howling Acres Wolf Sanctuary

2010-03-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

Hello to every Howling Acres Supporters! Howling Acres has been hit hard this year, we have one tour a week. We are in need money to help feed the wolves, pay the power bill and the land payment and liability ins. All of this is a must to stay open so you can enjoy the wolves and wolf dogs. If you can't donate please tell a friend or just donate $5 if you can. Anything will help us out. Again Thank you so very much!
Please help!

Their website to see their wolves and easy donation via paypal http://www.howlingacres.org/

Thank you so much,
Howling Acres Wolf Sanctuary
555 Davidson Rd
Williams, OR 97544
541-846-8962
wolves@howlingacres.org

Join at Me Bitten By Books Bitten By Books March 15 link http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=21017 for Blog, Chat and Contest

2010-03-15T11:42:00.001-07:00

Howling to all paranormal wolfish readers,
In honor of the late March release of White Wolf of Avalon : Werewolf Knight

Bitten By Books is hosting my blog, chat and contest all day today (March 15till
midnight).

Bitten By Books March 15 link http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=21017

Here is Bitten By Books review about White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight

White Wolf Of Avalon: Werewolf Knight by Eva Gordon
Posted: 13 Mar 2010 07:20 AM PST
White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight is the third book in author Eva Gordon’s Wolf Maiden Chronicles series. The book takes place in Fifth Century Britain and works in the King Arthur myth alongside the author’s own mythology.

Sir Bledig, the Iron Fist of the Round Table, does not want anything to do with his werewolf heritage, or the destiny that is foretold about him. By age 21 Bledig has been in many battles alongside King Arthur against King Aelle and his Saxon army. He wishes to marry a human wife, and break the curse that is passed down to a werewolf’s offspring if they mate with a wolf maiden. Bledig is put to the test when he meets a young wolf maiden named Annora. Bledig must come face to face with the foretold destiny even if it is the last thing he wants.
Lady Annora of Londinium Augusta has been promised by her brother to Gargol the younger brother of the Alpha wolf of Britain Gorlagon. Upon arriving Annora finds Gorlagon to me an evil man, and is thrown into the dungeon. There Annora meets a pack leader named Kaie, and with each other’s help escapes from Gorlagon’s fortress. Annora finds help with an alpha wolf named Bledig, who she finds attracted to instantly. Though she doesn’t understand how any alpha wolf can hate their existence the way Bledig does. Annora hopes she can show Bledig that being a wolf is a part of him that shouldn’t be cured.
The story molds both the King Arthur mythology and the Wolf Maiden Chronicles mythology together very well. As in her previous two books Eva Gordon manages to find a nice balance between the action and the romance. Both men and woman will find enough in this story to be satisfied. The author has managed to create great adversaries in all three of the Wolf Maiden Chronicle books. Gorlagon and his younger brother Gargol are no exceptions. You are strongly rooting for the hero Bledig against the two brothers by the end of the story.
Book Stats:
 Paperback: 300 pages
 Publisher: Vanilla Heart Publishing (March 25, 2010)
 Language: English
 ISBN-10: 1935407325
 ISBN-13: 978-1935407324
5 Stars

Come RSVP For My Guest Blog, Chat and Contest

2010-03-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

RSVP For: 3/15 Guest Blog, Chat and Contest With Author Eva Gordon. Event starts at 12:00 pm Central and runs all day and into the night. Contest runs until 11:59 pm Central on 3/16/10.

Description: Join us with author Eva Gordon for a guest blog, chat and contest at http://bittenbybooks.com/. She will also be talking about her newest print soon to be released White Wolf of Avalon.

CONTEST:

Prize 1: $25.00 gift card for Amazon or Barnes & Noble (winners choice)
Prize 2: A copy of The Girl’s Guide to Werewolves by Barb Karg (shipped via Amazon and only in United States)
Prize 3: An e-book copy of book 1 Werewolf Sanctuary

RSVP below and get 25 entries to the contest when you show up on the day of the event. If you don’t show up and mention your RSVP AND ask a question, you won’t be entered into the contest.

Check out her website here and get your questions ready for her event.
http://www.ravenauthor.com/

Be SURE to give your friends this link: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=20433 so they can RSVP too!

I'm teaching a workshop for writers on Ancient Falconry

2010-03-02T07:16:00.000-08:00

Class: Ancient Falconry
Instructor: Eva Gordon
Dates: March 22 - April 2, 2010

Registration Deadline: March 20, 2010
Fee: $10/HHRW members, $20/others
Click HERE for Registration Form
FMI: HHRW Campus Coordinator: classes@heartsthroughhistory.com

Class Description:

Class: Ancient Falconry
Instructor: Eva Gordon
Class Description:

This course will introduce you to a brief history of Falconry, an important sport during the Middle Ages.
Lesson 1: Introduction and Syllabus
Lesson 2: What is Falconry?
Lesson 3: Earliest Origins of Falconry
Lesson 4: History of Falconry in Asia and the Near East
Lesson 5: History of Falconry in Europe
Lesson 6: Modern Falconry

If you write historical or shifter novels you should check it out. It will run from March 8-19th.
See details below:
RWA eNotes Calendar
by Maria Connor

Hearts Through History Romance Writers (heartsthroughhistory.com/class.htm).

Full Moon: Why I created my 'werewolf' paranormal series

2010-02-28T16:55:00.000-08:00

Power Totem or Feared Werewolf
By Author of Paranormal Romance Eva Gordon
Why I was moved to create my ‘werewolf’ paranormal romance series, The Wolf Maiden Chronicles

My blog is about why I created the epic paranormal lycan series, The Wolf Maiden Chronicles. Book 1, Werewolf Sanctuary released May 2009 followed by Beast Warrior (August 2009), which takes place during the Viking era. White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight will be release March 2010. My passion for wildlife, especially wolf biology (my degrees are in Zoology and Biology) and my love of mythology was like the mixing of chocolate and peanut butter to create the Reeses Peanut Cup. I had to combine my two great loves. The call of the wild meets romance. Why the wolf? That was easy. The wolf is one of my totem guides and in fact has been the totem guide for numerous cultures. Nothing sends a chill down your spine more than hearing a wolf’s howl in the night. While at a wolf sanctuary, I spent the night in a trailer on the grounds and was privileged to hear night after night of thirty wolves in their nightly serenade.

No sound is more awesome. Wolves have traits we admire. They are powerful predators, with complex social behavior, and what appeals to most romantic readers, wolves are monogamous. In reality wolves have a low hunting success rate and the average wolf is the size of a German Shepherd so I made my lycan wolves huge, the size of bears with cool tribal tattoos. The Beast of Gevaudan legend of 1764 of Southern France spoke of such a large wolf creature/werewolf said to be the size of a bull. I knew then that my lycan had to be larger than the average wolf.

I studied myths about wolves from around the globe. In Native American culture the wolf is an important archetype. They had great respect for the wolf and often offered prayers before a hunt to the wolf spirit. Wolf spirit was also powerful medicine for shamans who traveled to the world of the dead. In Europe just as in the New World, myths and stories about wolves are universal. Early Europeans Respected the Wolf as Protector and Teacher. From the Steppes of Asia Minor to the British Isles the Wolf was mighty totemic protector. Hecate, an Ancient Greek deity was worshipped as a goddess with three wolf heads. Rome was founded by Romulus and Remus who were fed by the she-wolf, Alcala/Lupa.

In Ireland, King Cormac was nursed by a she-wolf. Myths about heroes being suckled or raised by wolves are ubiquitous and would take too much space for this blog. In the Viking world to be a member of the Wolf Clan, Ulfhednar was the greatest honor. Viking warriors believed that if they died a heroic death they would be turned into magnificent wolves.

Vikings also believed wolves chasing and devouring the sun and moon caused eclipses. Two wolves accompanied Odin, ruler of the Norse Gods. He created the wolves Freki (Hungry One) and Geri (Greedy One) as loyal companions.
Many of these wolfish tales were actually werewolf stories. As Europe went from hunter/gather to a agricultural land grabbing cultures the wolf was no longer seen as friend but rather foe. Tales of ravenous wolves haunted the land. From Lycaon being turned into a werewolf by Zeus to Little Red Riding Hood, the wolf became the new evildoer. Werewolves roamed looking for human prey. There are numerous accounts of werewolves devouring people.

And so many ways to become a werewolf, from wearing a wolf pelt, from a curse, drinking from a specific water hole or the classic bitten by a wolf and influenced by the full moon. I then I began to see history through the eyes of a werewolf. What if werewolves were real? Mine would be genetic and super powerful. If they were, they would need to keep themselves secret. Thus my creation of my werewolf universe, in The Wolf Maiden Chronicles.

Since ancient times, the Lupercal Council has kept their people’s werewolf identity a well-guarded secret from man. They refer to their kind as lycans. The lycan shifts into a bear-sized wolf, bearing unique markings reminiscent of Maori or Celtic tattoos. The pack shifts during the full moon and are under the control of their alpha male leader. The alpha male and alpha female are not bound by the full moon and can shift at will. Lycans can only breed with their kind. The exception is the alpha male, which can only mate with human women known as wolf maidens. These human women bear the five-toed lycan paw print or mark of the wolf on their left hip. Female alphas are sterile but are the leading lycans governing the Lupercal Council. They are aided by selected men known as Lupercii who help inform the Lupercal of all human activity. In their religion they worship the Goddess Feronia. The romance in my stories revolve around the alpha male and the wolf maiden destined to be his life mate not just in this life but throughout time at each rebirth. There is much more detail, but this is it in a nutshell. In each book I capture the realism of the historical period and the story unfolds as a ‘werewolf historical’ paranormal fantasy.
To start your journey you can start with Werewolf Sanctuary, a contemporary that leads to the ‘werewolf historicals’, however each novel is a stand-alone. Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf is the second and takes place during the Viking Era. Here is a blurb to each.

Werewolf Sanctuary
By Eva Gordon
Book 1. Of The Wolf Maiden Chronicles

The Lupercal society is in peril due to an unknown disease infecting their young offspring. The children that survive the pestilence shift too early into wolf cubs, lose their distinct markings, and end up becoming normal wolves unaware of their human consciousness. Normally immune to most known diseases, the Lupercal has few of their own doctors and must seek the help of a human outsider to find the cure.

Wyatt Weylin, the alpha male of the Montana pack and leader of a team of mercenary lycans, flies to a World Wolf Conference in San Francisco, where he hopes to convince leading authority on wolf diseases, veterinarian Dr. Madeline Styles to come to his wolf sanctuary and find a cure. The minute he sees her he feels drawn to her striking good looks. The sensory chemistry is instant. He tries to suppress the feeling knowing that he is forbidden to fall for a human. Life gets complicated when Wyatt discovers that the vegetarian animal doctor has the mark of the wolf and is his life mate.

Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf
By Eva Gordon
Book 2 of The Wolf Maiden Chronicles

Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf is a historical paranormal romance that takes place during the Viking Era of the Dark Ages. A time when only the strong survive. It is the second book in the Wolf Maiden Chronicles, which depicts alpha lycans and their human wolf maiden mates.

Sigurd, an alpha Norse wolfskin, son of Gunnolf the Red seeks revenge against shape shifting bearskins, Bork the Mad and his son, Mord the Blood Claw for the death of his parents and his older brother Guda. Orphaned, he has been raised by his older sister Brynhild, who convinces him to take a wolf maiden in order to increase their small pack. Despite the warning by Hungerd the wolf witch, he takes a farmer’s new bride with tragic consequences. Alone he joins a long ship until the day he can avenge his pack’s demise.

Emelisse, a Frank wolf maiden, has been raised and educated in the classics, science, literature and languages by female lycans of the Lupercal. Born a runt with a weak heart her father has been overprotective. She refuses to be treated like a delicate vase and rebels by seeking out riding and falconry. Now at age eighteen Emelisse frets that her father wants her to accept Radulf III the Cruel, an alpha lycan of a pack of powerful warriors. She tries to run away with her human lover.

Viking werewolf, Sigurd rescues Emelisse, from the claws of the berserker bear men. He claims her as his ulf hexen or wolf maiden, but she wants to leave lycan society and live with humans. To complicate matters she has been called by her goddess Feronia to save the lycans from a dreaded disease. Their union is wrought with great peril in a world where werewolves must battle against their own kind as well as their fierce enemy, the berserker bear men. Will Emelisse accept Sigurd a foreign lycan as her alpha mate? Sigurd vows to protect her from their enemies but how can he save her before she dies from her ailing heart?

White Wolf of Avalon: Werewolf Knight (Available on Kindle and pre-order for March release (date yet unknown)
By Eva Gordon
Book 3

White Wolf of Avalon : Werewolf Knight is book 3 in my series and takes place during Arthurian times. There are cameo appearances by well known characters such as King Arthur, Morgan le Fey and Mordred to name a few but the story revolves around the secret society of lycans that reside in ancient Britain.
Bledig, an orphan raised by a childless couple near the magical Isle of Avalon dreams of someday becoming a knight of the Round Table. Bledig refuses to become a beast and wants no part in marrying a wolf maiden and begetting lycan children. After Bledig helps King Arthur defeat the Saxons at Badon Hill he is knighted and is advised by his close friend Sir Uwain that he knows of a priest that can cure him of his wolfen curse. Bledig heads toward Avalon to tell his great aunt Silvia of his plan. Once cured, he will serve as a knight, marry a courtly lady and earn a title.
Annora a Romano Greco wolf maiden, is more interested in intellectual pursuits than romantic ones. She is a scribe and historian who preferred to marry an older alpha lycan who would better understand her need to focus on her writings. As Annora travels up north to meet with her brother and family, they are attacked by Gorlagon’s she-lycan Trivia and her pack of warrior lycans.

In the wilderness Annora and Bledig meet. She is the beautiful woman he has dreamt of nightly while heading to retrieve his brother’s moonstone. He the knight in shining armor she had fantasized about, brave, handsome and chivalrous. Their attraction is instantaneous. She is stunned to learn he is a lycan, the white wolf destined to unite all the lycans of Britain. Her mate. On learning she is a wolf maiden, Bledig hardens his heart. He tells her that after he delivers her to the safety of Avalon he will visit a priest who will cure him of his wolfen curse. She is saddened that he refuses to follow his destiny and that he does not wish to claim her as his.
Danger lurks everywhere. Gorlagon and Gargol have not given up on their hunt to find Annora and the Pict wolfen she released from his dank dungeons. But most of all they wish to use her as a breeder. Intrigue and secrecy abound in King Arthur’s court at Camulod. Mordred, who Arthur is unaware, is his son by his own sister Morgause, plots to rule. He has become Gorlagon’s secret Lupercii in the hopes of having a lycan army to defeat his father in battle.
Will Bledig reject his true destiny as the prophesized lycan leader of Britain, and most importantly can he deny his feelings for the lovely wolf maiden, Annora, who has already captured his heart and soul?

More to come. I finished Lycan Gladiator and am editing another contemporary. Stay tuned to the call of the wild.

HAPPY PURIM!

2010-02-26T16:49:00.000-08:00

My costume will be a werewolf. Howling for Hamentaschen.

GUNG HAY FAT CHOY! YEAR OF THE TIGER

2010-02-19T15:26:00.000-08:00

ROARING IN THE YEAR OF THE TIGER

I'm wolfish but I have to howl good wishes to fellow predator, the tiger.

I gathered some info from several sites to post about the year and the tiger.

The Tiger is one of the most beautiful creatures on the planet, and is feared and revered in equal measure. It features in many Asian cultures as a manifestation of courage, power, passion and royalty. In Feng Shui, it is one of the four celestial animals where it takes its place as the White Tiger. The other three celestial animals are the Green Dragon, Red Phoenix and Black Tortoise. The Tiger symbolizes the female Yin energy as opposed to the Yang male energy of the dragon. Ancient Chinese believe that the markings on the forehead of tigers resemble the Chinese character for "Wang", or King. In Imperial China, where the dragon is the insignia of the emperors, the tiger is the military emblem of the highest supreme commanders of the army symbolizing fearlessness and victory. The Tiger also represents earth, while the dragon represents Heaven. The powerful and stealth prowess of the Tiger inspire the martial art movements of many Kung-Fu masters.

The good news is that on this Year of the Tiger all countries where tigers are found are pledging to double their population by the year 2020. Every subspecies of Pantera tigris is endangered. Tigers are the largest living cats. They are found from Siberia, South to India, China, Southeast Asia and a few islands.
They are built for stealth and sudden attack. They can cover 40 feet in one leap. Tigers can kill prey four times its size. They average a large kill every 8 days. Their vivid coloration actually helps them hide in the tall, dry grass and forest. They roar to announce their location in both warning and invitation. They greet one another by rubbing cheek to cheek, called chuffling.
Tigers breed at any time of the year. Females deliver cubs after 103 days and bear litters of two to four cubs. It is extremely important to save the habitats where they are found. Their home is being encroached upon for human agricultural purposes. Unfortunately, poaching is also an issue for their pelt but mostly for their body parts, which are used in Chinese Medicine. World wide education is slowly starting to turn the tide toward not harvesting tigers for medicinal reasons.

The Sign of the Tiger
Courageous, active, and self-assured. Optimistic, passionate and independent. Rebellious, dynamic, and unpredictable. Quick tempered but considerate. Affectionate but careless. The Tiger is a natural born leader and symbolizes power, passion and daring.

People born in the Year of the Tiger are generally well liked because of their charming personalities. Often, failing at a given task or being unproductive in his personal or professional life can cause a Tiger to experience a deep depression. Criticism from loved ones can also generate this type of Tiger reaction.
Tigers are fond of competitions. They simply cannot pass up a challenge. They may appear cool and are unpredictable, and it would be unwise to underestimate their reactions. Natural leaders, they have a strong sense of their own dignity. They are intelligent, alert, and farsighted. Good strategists and tacticians, they often have a hidden agenda. As long as they do not risk their luck too often, and keep their restless nature under control, they will enjoy success and happiness.
People born in the Year of the Tiger are straightforward and uninhibited in nature. They will never give up no matter how frustrated they may become. But, they are also full of suspicion and sometimes will take hasty action.
They must be aware of how they react to and are affected by the consequences of their tempers. They should take it a little easier and learn to pace themselves to keep active longer and to prevent early burnout. They are blessed with flexibility and often recover quickly from illness or pain.

Some people born in the Year of the Tiger are gentle and full of sympathy. They are kind, love babies and anything that arouses their imagination. Others can be stubborn and selfish. Generally speaking, people born in the Year of the Tiger are fond of playing, and full of enthusiasm and sentiment. Some are mercurial. They can laugh happily one moment, and cry the next. They will be optimistic, but at the next they will lose their heart totally.
People born in the Year of the Tiger take pride in being different than others, and generally illustrate their originality best in their homes. Their homes are usually filled with exotic treasures. They are fast learners, need challenge and often work alone. Some tend to change careers more often because they get bored easily. They are natural born leaders and perform best if working towards positions of power and influence. They like to spend money, and also to share it. They can be quite impulsive spenders because they know they can always make more.
It is interesting that their two main features are rashness and hesitation, a pair of contradictions. If they know how to relax and do things according to the situation, they can become quite successful.

Tiger Years: 02/08/1902 to 01/28/1903 (Water), 01/26/1914 to 02/13/1915 (Wood), 02/13/1926 to 02/01/1927 (Fire), 01/31/1938 to 02/18/1939 (Earth), 02/17/1950 to 02/05/1951 (Metal), 02/05/1962 to 01/24/1963 (Water), 01/23/1974 to 02/10/1975 (Wood), 02/09/1986 to 01/28/1987 (Fire), 01/28/1998 to 02/15/1999 (Earth), 02/14/2010 to 02/02/2011 (Metal)
Famous Tiger People: Agatha Christie, Crystal Gayle, Cybill Shepherd, Demi Moore, Diana Rigg, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Hilary Swank, Jodie Foster, Marilyn Monroe, Mary Queen of Scots, Norma Shearer, Penelope Cruz, Queen Elizabeth II, Rosie O'Donnell, and Tom Cruise.

Are you a tiger or perhaps a tiger shifter? If so, come in and tell us.

Lupercalia: Happy Wolf Valentine's DAy

2010-02-12T14:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Lupercalia! Wolf Valentine’s Day!

How an ancient Roman holiday inspired my werewolf universe.
My readers know I use this ancient Roman festival in my paranormal romance werewolf novels. In my universe it is the time when lycans are most fertile, find their mates or play naughty werewolf games. I use some of the rituals below, with the exception of sacrificing the dog in my lycan festival. The Lupercal, the cave where Romulus and Remus were suckled by the she-wolf is what I call the ruling governing party run by 12 female alpha lycans. Below are some facts about Lupercalia from several sources on the web.

“The Origins of the Lupercalia
The Lupercalia was started to honor a forgotten fertility god, but the during the Augustan period, the god Lupercus had been invented to explain the festival, according to the Dictionary of Roman Religion. Adkins and Adkins, authors of the book, state that Faunus might have been the god the Lupercalia.

The Lupercalia Festival Itself
The festival was held on February 15th, the day after the modern Valentine's Day Celebration. The month of February occurred later in the Roman calendar. Celebrants would gather at the Lupercal cave on the Palatine Hill in Rome, where Romulus and Remus were suckled by their adoptive wolf mother, according to Roman legend.

Luperci Priests made sacrifices of goats and dogs as part of the festival, and two young people were smeared by the blood of the sacrifice and then wiped away by wool dipped in milk. As part of the Lupercalia celebration, young men would go through the streets whipping people with goat skins to encourage fertility.
The youths then donned loincloths made from the skin of the goat and led groups of priests around the pomarium, the sacred boundary of the ancient city, and around the base of the hills of Rome. The occasion was happy and festive. As they ran about the city, the young men lightly struck women along the way with strips of the goat hide. It is from these implements of purification, or februa, that the month of February gets its name. This act supposedly provided purification from curses, bad luck, and infertility.

Long after Palentine HIll became the seat of the powerful city, state and empire of Rome, the Lupercalia festival lived on. Roman armies took the Lupercalia customs with them as they invaded France and Britain. One of these was a lottery where the names of available maidens were placed in a box and drawn out by the young men. Each man accepted the girl whose name he drew as his love - for the duration of the festival, or sometimes longer.
As Christianity began to slowly and systematically dismantle the pagan pantheons, it frequently replaced the festivals of the pagan gods with more ecumenical celebrations. It was easier to convert the local population if they could continue to celebrate on the same days... they would just be instructed to celebrate different people and ideologies..
Lupercalia, with its lover lottery, had no place in the new Christian order. In the year 496 AD, Pope Gelasius did away with the festival of Lupercalia, citing that it was pagan and immoral. He chose Valentine as the patron saint of lovers, who would be honored at the new festival on the fourteenth of every February. The church decided to come up with its own lottery and so the feast of St. Valentine featured a lottery of Saints. One would pull the name of a saint out of a box, and for the following year, study and attempt to emulate that saint.”

My crazy thoughts:
In a sense I think we have gone back to a weird form of Lupercalia lovers lottery I call it computer dating. True, you do get to learn about the person, but do you really? It really is like drawing a date out of a lottery.

Book Club Discussion Questions for Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf By Eva Gordon

2010-01-31T15:19:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my Book Club Discussion about Beast Warrior : Viking Werewolf. Come in anytime during the month and post a comment. You can answer or discuss any of the questions that catch your interest or all. Comment on others comments as well. No spoilers for those who have not read the novel. This is my first blog book club so I'm leaving it open ended. So grab a flagon of mead and sit by the campfire.

1. What do you imagine the world was like during the Dark Ages?

2. How would your life be inconvenienced by living during the Viking Era of 840 AD?

3. In the lycan society, describe each: alpha male, alpha female, beta pack member, and human wolf maiden or ulf hexen.

4. What is the role of the Lupercal?

5. Do you think the disease rabies helped develop the idea of savage wolves or even werewolves?

6. Differentiate between the Norse werewolves or wolfskins with bearskins.

7. How do the Norse werewolves fit in with Norse mythology?

8. What do you know about Viking berserkers? Does this fit in with the concepts in the novel’s fantasy about wolfskins and bearskins?

9. Who are the mentors in this novel? Explain.

10. What are some cultural differences between the Southern Lycans and the Northern Wolfskins?

11. Do the hero and heroine have an inner code of ethics?

12. Do you think Emelisse and Sigurd are true life mates despite their differences?

13. Do you think that within the ‘werewolf’ culture women are treated better than in human culture? Think Dark Ages.

14. After reading Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf would you describe as paranormal romance, a historical and or a fantasy novel? What do you think of cross genre novels?

15. What music would be good background music for this book? Here is a video of the awesome group Dragon Ritual Drummers. I would love to hire them to work on my sound track. Perfect atmospheric music for Beast Warrior.

16. If it was a movie who should play Sigurd and Emelisse. Or other characters?

Interview with Luna the Alaskan Wolf

2010-01-27T07:37:00.000-08:00

This full moon we have a special guest, a real wolf named Luna. I have traveled to a private deep forest in Alaska where I'm sitting under the full moon. I am guided by two spirit animals the raven and the wolf. They have guided me to this journey through the power of drum, the heartbeat of the earth. I posted a beautiful video I found on youtube, but you can skip and read the interview. Post questions if you wish. I also posted another fun video from youtube at the end.

Eva: Welcome Luna. Where are you from?
Luna: The land of our marked territory and smells like my pack.

Eva Tell us about your pack?
Luna :There are 8 of us. We hunt and we take care of the cubs. We greet each other before and after a hunt and show respect to our leader.
Eva: So you are the alpha female, what does that mean?
Luna: My alpha mate and I have cubs and we are the leaders of the pack. Others treat us with great respect.

Eva: Describe your mate.
Luna: He smells good and I love sound of his howl. I will never leave his side.
Eva: Discuss the status of the other wolves in your pack.

Luna: When my mate and I approach, the others crouch with their ears flattened, and tails down to show we are the leaders. The lowest ranking ones stay and take care of the cubs while we hunt.
Eva: Compared to humans tell us about your body form.
Luna: We have fur, four legs, a tail, a long snout to better smell, long ears to better hear, and a large mouth and fangs to better eat prey.

Eva: But you never eat humans?
Luna: No my pack would never do that.
Eva: What do you normally eat?
Luna: We love flesh but we will even eat berries, earthworms and grasshoppers.
Eva: What do you think of humans?
Luna: I smell them more than I see them. They have a strange scent on their body, some not their own. We are taught not to go near your kind. We avoid the smell.
Eva: Do you tell stories of wolf humans, wolves that become human?
Luna: We have spirits that become humans.

Eva: Do you have natural enemies?
Luna: Sometimes bears or cougars who can eat our young, but mostly it’s man.

Eva: So you have almost been killed by aerial hunting?
Luna: Yes, we lost two members of our pack that way. From the air comes loud growls followed by deadly bites.
Eva: What does it feel like to be on the hunt?
Luna: Exhilarating but requires team work. Our greatest fear is hunger.
Eva: How do you teach your cubs?
Luna: We allow them to play to learn their strengths and when they are ready they watch us hunt. We make sure they are safe from all enemies and they are safe in their den.
Eva: What is the biggest thing you have killed?
Luna: Moose
Eva :What do you think of humans?
Luna: They smell like prey but are really predators and dangerous. Very cunning.
Eva: What do you think of coyotes or dogs or other predators?
Luna: They are not allowed on our territory.
Eva: What do you think of ravens since they always follow a pack?
Luna: They steal most of our food and sometimes they even guide us to the prey.

Eva: Do you remember your life of a cub?
Luna: Yes, I was a cub. I remember the smell of milk. I remember shoving the other cubs away from the teat.
Eva: How do you react to other packs?
Luna: We do not allow them in our territory.

Eva: Finally my human pack members want to know if you only howl during the full moon and why do wolves howl?
Luna: We howl day or night , it does not matter. We howl for many reasons, including gathering for the hunt and communicating with distant pack members and other packs. To express joy and grief.

Eva: May I express my joy in having interviewed you.
I howl and Luna joins in. The pack gathers around and they too join us in song. Here is a video with more wolf song.

Werewolf Wednesday News

2010-01-27T06:55:00.001-08:00

Lot's of howling excitement in the woods. First today is ask Doc Werewolf Wednesday second White Wolf of Avalon : Viking Werewolf is Available on Amazon Kindle, third my interview with a real wolf will be going up for this Full Moon, my Book Club for Beast Warrior : Viking Werewolf begins Feb.1 (I will post questions) and my seminar on Wolf Lore on Coffee time Romance begins Feb. 3----Feb 17. I invite you all to my events dedicated to Lupercalia and the Release of White Wolf of Avalon

When you sign up, put 'evagordon' in the referal box and the staff will get your registration done so you can post.

Here is my seminar outline:

http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/board/forumdisplay.php?f=480
February 2010 - Seminar Host is Eva Gordon
Call of the Wild : Wolf Lore, truths and myths every writer should know about wolves

3rd -17th

A month long seminar for writers who are interested in writing about wolves and werewolves in their stories but who want more background on the basic biology and behavior of real wolves. Writers will also learn why the wolf evolved from admired archetype to savage evil nemesis of man.

Lessons:

Part 1.

1. Introduction
2. Wolf Natural History

A. Basic Biology
B. Wolf Behavior

Part 2.

1. Wolf Lore in Europe and Central Asia
2. alpha werewolf.Wolf as totem
3. Wolf as enemy of man

White Wolf of Avalon: Now Available on Kindle

2010-01-21T12:23:00.001-08:00

Hi,
Just to let you know White Wolf of Avalon is available on Kindle NOW. Print version to be released on March 9, 2010. For Kindle just click

http://bit.ly/8Ko7iH

Here is the trailer:

Love and Light,

Eva Gordon

Ask Doc Werewolf Wednesday

2010-01-20T08:47:00.000-08:00

Howlo,

Today I want to recommend Avatar. It is an amazing film, visually and with a story that resonated with me because of my connection to our mother Earth, Gaia. It is a classic story of the clash between cultures and civilizations. Greed verses biodiversity. I really loved the Pandora universe James Cameron created and being a biologist I especially liked the fauna. For all my wolf lovers, the fauna included the Viperwolf or in Na'vi the Nantang. The viperwolves looked like wolves with mange and very lycanthrope like. I was happy to see a keystone predator similar to the wolf on Pandora.

So werewolf and wolf fans tell me what you think? If you have not seen the movie yet, do see it in 3D. Or come in to ask for advice.

Werewolf Wednesday

2010-01-13T07:20:00.000-08:00

Werewolf Cafe open for all your questions and entertainment. Werewolves often have social and relationship issues. Come in ask for advice. Oh, and do check out my latest review by Vampire Author Nicole Hathway http://nicole-hadaway.blogspot.com/2010/01/writers-wedesday-featuring-eva-gordons.html One post will win a free e-book copy of my novel.

Happy Full Moon New Year: Year of the Wolf

2009-12-29T21:13:00.000-08:00

Next interview will be with a real wolf. Next full moon, since I will be out of town on this full moon. Also, coming at end of January will be the discussion questions for my novel, Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf. Until Next Year.

Winter Read Book Club for Beast Warrior : Viking Werewolf

2009-12-20T10:44:00.000-08:00

I'm inviting all to join me the author of Beast Warrior : Viking Werewolf, my Viking era Wolf Maiden Chronicle paranormal/fantasy romance historical novel. I will post the reading questions at the end of January for our discussion around the time of Lupercalia in February and before the launch of my next novel, White Wolf of Avalon : Werewolf Knight. Below is the cover. The background is an ancient relic, viking sword and a real found silver viking wolf.

Link to buy from Amazon below or order at bookstore with my ISBN 978-1-935407-31-7

This youtube (metal so you may want to lower the volume) reminds of my main character Sigurd the Wolfskin

Ask Doc Werewolf Wednesday

2009-12-16T07:21:00.001-08:00

Holidays getting you down? Are you a werewolf without a job? No health plan when that silver bullet wounds you? Dating a vampire?

Feel free to ask me for advice.

Happy Chanukah!!!

2009-12-11T20:06:00.000-08:00

As I light the candles, eat greasy latkes and spin the dreidels I want to pause and wish all my lupine and canine friends a warm Chanukah.

Interview with main characters from Beast Warrior:Viking Werewolf , Sigurd and Emelisse

2009-12-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

Interview Introduction: Today I have the special pleasure of briefly interviewing my hero and heroine from my just released novel in the Wolf Maiden Chronicles, Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf, an epic paranormal romance, what I call a ‘werewolfhistorical’. As you know ‘were’ means man so I include the term werewolf or lycan. Beast Warrior: Viking Werewolf takes place takes place in the Frankish Kingdom during the Viking Era of 840 AD. A time when only the strong survive. I have always been fascinated by Norse mythology, which is rich in wolf lore, so this book was a labor of love.
I will briefly be interviewing the main characters separately since they have not met. I will begin with Emelisse our heroine and then Sigurd our hero. If you wish to learn more please read the blurb below the interview or better yet check out the novel.

Day Interview with Emelisse

Eva: It is early and the day is bright and sunny. The door to the Werewolf Café opened and in walked a spry beautiful young woman with raven black hair and dark eyes. She is wearing a fine silk tunic and red cloak, reminding me of Red Riding Hood. “Emelisse, welcome to the Werewolf Café.”

Emelisse: “Pleasure is mine.” She nods and sits with the air of confidence of a princess of the realm.

Eva: “Tell me of your family and home.” The server brought us warmed cider and oatcakes.

Emelisse: “I am the only daughter of Duke Chanteloup the Gray. He is the lycan pack alpha of most of the Gascony region and the Pyrenees Mountains. Our castle is on top of a grand mountain. His territory houses the Lupercal so he is deemed most important.”

Eva: “Wow, I heard the Lupercal is led by twelve alpha females who rule all of your secret lycan society.”

Emelisse: “Yes, though the different alpha pack leaders may disagree with their laws they obey the Lupercal nonetheless.”

Eva: “You are a wolf maiden, tell us what that means?”

Emelisse: “A wolf maiden is a human woman born with the mark of the 5- toed lycan paw print. She is bound to be the mate of an alpha lycan. The mark heats up and turns red once her chosen one is found. Only a wolf maiden can give the alpha children since the female alpha lycans are sterile. Our beta males and females can mate with one another.” Her eyes turned sad. “I have no choice but to marry an alpha. T’is Feronia’s and my father’s will.”

Eva: “Feronia is your wolf goddess?”

Emelisse: Her eyes brightened. “Yes, I’m her oracle. She often selects wolf maidens such as me to commune with. Feronia guides life mates to find one another.” She sipped her warm cider and sighed. “Still I wish to leave the pack and live with humans. “

Eva: “So you do not wish to marry a lycan. Why?”

Emelisse: “I have been the only human in my pack and I’m tired of being treated like I will break at any minute. You see I was born a runt with a weak heart and my overprotective father has tried to keep me from doing anything fun.” She smiled. “But since he was always gone as a knight for the king I learned to ride, hunt, fish, falconry and archery without his knowledge. “

Eva: “And your heart gave you no problems?”

Emelisse: “Lupa the alpha leader of the Lupercal prepares potions for me and has taught me how to breathe when I feel an attack coming. I know I may not have long to live so I enjoy my life as much as I can. Truth be told, most runts are killed at birth. My father did not allow my death. The seer found out later that I am destined to choose a mate that will unite all the packs.”

Eva: “That’s quite an honor.”

Emelisse: She shrugged. “Seems like my father wishes me to marry Radulf III the Cruel, the most powerful lycan in all the Frank Kingdom.”

Eva: “But you don’t love him.”

Emelisse: Vehemently shook her head. “Never. “ She lowered her voice. “I’m in love with a human woodsman, Galien. We meet discreetly. It is my wish to marry him.”
Eva: “But how will your father react?”

Emelisse: “Oh he will be angry, which is why I must runaway.”

Eva: “Are you not worried that they will follow your scent?”

Emelisse: She slowly shook her head. “I assure you, I must work on a plan that will not get Galien murdered. I would rather die than end up with Radulf.”

Eva: “Will your goddess Feronia allow this.”

Emelisse: Teary eyed she looked at her cup. “I will beg for her forgiveness.” The server brought her meat pie and she pushed it away.

Eva: “Not hungry?”

Emelisse: “Of late my stomach has been sensitive, perhaps a miasma.”

Eva: She looked pale. “Do you have any plans for the rest of the day?”

Emelisse: “I will fly my merlin.” She smiled. “Nothing brings me greater joy than riding and flying my bird.” She wiped her lips. “Thank you for sitting with me in such an interesting tavern.”

Eva: “Thank you. Take care.” She left and I peeked out the window as she mounted her mare and galloped up the hill.

Night Interview with Sigurd.

Eva: I gasped as in walked in a large framed muscular Norse werewolf with flaming red hair and aquamarine eyes. He wore Viking armor and on his belt was a sword that had to be half my height if not more. He was one of the most ruggedly handsome werewolves I have ever met. As if Thor was nearby a bolt of lightning lit up the night followed by a thundering boom. “Sigurd, thank you for meeting me this evening.” I gestured for him to sit. He took off his helmet and raked his long red hair back.

Sigurd: He smiled displaying snow white teeth and a hint of fangs. “Are you Hungerd in disguise?”

Eva: “No I am simply a woman from another realm who wishes to ask you a few questions. Who is Hungerd?”

Sigurd: He eyed me suspiciously before answering. “She is a crone wolf witch who has great powers in seior or magic. Often she shifts into others. Sometimes into birds or often she appears as a lovely woman.” Our server brought a bottle of Mead and poured us a glass. He sniffed in pleasure. “What is that wonderful aroma?” He looked around.

Eva: Was it Emelisse’s scent he picked up. “Tell me of your kind, Sigurd Son of Gunnolf the Red.”

Sigurd: “I am an Ulfhednar, a wolfskin. Odin’s brother, Loki created our kind just as he did our natural wild wolf brethren. We shift into giant bear size wolves with markings that separate us from the forest wolves. I am leader of my pack and rule those who are forced to become wolves during the full moon.”

Eva: “Lycans call the leader the alpha of the pack. Alphas can shift at anytime, while the lower ranked lycans or betas must shift during the full moon.”

Sigurd: He gave me a quizzical look and smiled. “Ah, the southern wolfskins.”

Eva: I nodded. “Without the alpha’s leadership the betas may run amok.”

Sigurd: Gulped his entire glass and poured more. “My sister Brynhild and a few den brothers are all that is left of a once prosperous pack.”

Eva: “Tell me what happened?”

Sigurd: He gritted his teeth and his eyes narrowed in rage. Thunder boomed in the distance. “My parents and older brother were massacred by bearskins, men who shift into bears.” He pounded his massive fist on the table causing the cups to spill and the local werewolf clientele to stop what they were doing to look. He took in a long breath. “Bork the Mad and his son Mord the Blood Claw must die by my hand. If in the end I cross the Rainbow Bridge to Valhalla so be it.” Fangs flashed. "Bork wears my father's red wolf pelt!"

Eva: I drank my glass and wiped my lips of mead. “Is it true these bearskins must sleep during the winter?”

Sigurd: He nodded. “Hungerd the crone has searched for their lair but they too have a witch named Bolla who has used seior to hide their winter den.” He shrugged. “No matter, I wish to meet them in the battlefield so I can gaze at their eyes as they die watching their entrails litter the ground for the ravens to eat.”

Eva: “Ooh, yuck.” He was one serious werewolf out for blood and vengeance. “What does your sister think?”

Sigurd: He snorted. “Brynhild wants me to find an ulf hexen and raise a family but I will not until I find and kill Bork and his son.”

Eva: “Ulf hexen is your word for wolf maiden, a human mate.”

Sigurd: “Brynhild thinks she found one but I must tell her my decision to join a Viking drakkor.

Eva: “You wish to join raiders?”

Sigurd: “It is the only way I can find my sworn enemies. Mord and his sons are berserker bearskins who sail and raid for the Jarls. By joining a drakkor I hope to find them and tear them asunder.”

Eva: “But what about the ulf hexen?”

Sigurd: “If I am not in Valhalla then on my return I will seek out my mate.” He looked up as a distant howl was heard in the distance. “My sister calls.”

Eva: “Thank you for speaking to me. “

Sigurd stood and bowed. He donned his helmet and left as a storm pelted the ground. I knew he was in for a great epic adventure and hoped that like Emelisse he too would survive the Dark Ages, a time of great peril.

Ask Doc Wednesday

2009-12-02T07:23:00.000-08:00

Problems with werewolf boy or girl friend or spouse? Ask away.

Full MoonInterview with Lycaon

2009-11-30T17:42:00.000-08:00

“The story of Lycaon, which originated in Greek mythology, has been viewed as one of the first werewolf stories ever. Publius Ovidius Naso or Ovid born in 43 B.C., in Sulmo, to an upper class Roman family introduced the story of Lycaon in his classic work, Metamorphoses. There are many versions of the legend about why Zeus punished Lycaon by turning him into a wolf. Most interpretations explain that Lycaon fed Zeus human flesh causing the King of the Gods to become enraged, killing most of his sons with thunderbolts and transforming Lycaon into a wolf. Some say Lycaon was a cruel ruler while others viewed him as a benevolent king.

I believe in parallel universes whereby each version can be true. Through the magic of my Lunar Orb I have brought back Lycaon to ask him about his life and let you the reader, decide, was he evil or misunderstood. We met here at the Werewolf Café. Feel free to send your comment questions to Lycaon.

Interview

Eva: He walked in, a tall muscular confidant alpha male radiating authority. Graying hair, but attractive in a Sean Connery sort of way. He cast a wolfish smile with a hint of white sharp fangs and gave me a deep bow. I tried to remain cool and gestured for him to sit while the server brought two glasses of fine Greek wine. “Good evening King Lycaon. Glad you can join us for the interview.”

Lycaon: With flirting eyes he smiled. “Pleasure is mine. I must say, the moonlight and the scent of humans make me hungry.”

Eva: I tried not to squirm. Here I was interviewing a known cannibal. “Tell us a little bit about your family history.”

Lycaon: “I was the first King of Arcadia. My parents were Pelasgus and Meliboea. I had 49 sons and one daughter, Callisto.”

Eva: “Did you say 49 sons? Can you even remember their names?”

Lycaon: “Grrrrr. Yes, all of them. It’s their mothers I can’t recall. Below I’ve listed them all.”

1. Melaeneus 2.Thesprotus 3. Helix. 4. Nyctimus. 5. Peucetius. 6. Caucon
7. Mecisteus 8.Mecisteus 9. Holpeus 10.Macareus 11.Oenotrus 12 Plichus
13. Acontes 14.Euaemon 15.Ancyor 16. Archebates 17.Carteron 18.Aegaeon
19. Pallas20. Eumon 21. Canethus 22. Prothos 23. Linus 24. Corethon
25. Maenalus 26. Teleboas 27. Physius 28. Phassus 29. Phthius 3130. Lycius
31. Alipherus 32. Genetor 33. Bucolion 34. Socleus 35. Phineus 36. Eumetes
37. Harpaleus 38. Portheus 39. Plato 40. Haemon 41. Cynaethus 42. Leo(n)
43. Harpalycus 44. Heraeeus 45. Titanas 46. Mantineus 47. Cleitor
48. Stymphalus 49. Orchomenus

Eva: “Hmmm. I see. Tell me a little bit about your kingdom and your accomplishments.”

Lycaon: “I lived in the region of Arcadia, which was called Pelasgia in ancient times. I was a fair and benevolent king, not ruthless as others would have you think. I raised civilization in this region to a higher level than previously during the period of my father Pelasgus’reign. I founded the town Lycosoura in the mountains of Lycaeon and that is where I became the first king. I started the Lycaean Games. I even set up a sanctuary for Zeus Lycaeus. Grrr. That ungrateful and lecherous god!”

Eva: Our server brought us a menu and hastily left. Would Lycaon be disappointed man-flesh was not listed as the main course? “I heard you would sacrifice humans to Zeus and that he became enraged because you fed him the flesh of one of your sons. Is that true?” He fidgeted in his seat before he pierced me with his dark wolfish eyes. I instinctively cast my eyes down at his domineering intensity.
Lycaon: “Grrrr. Lies, lies, all lies!!!”

Eva: He pounded a clawed fist on the table. I try to keep my cool as I watch his head shift from that of a man’s to that of a big grey wolf. I sipped my wine. “Care to explain?” He inhaled and was once again human.

Lycaon: “I never fed him my son or any other child. I fed him the intestines of some criminals from my dungeon in a well spiced stew.” He snorted a laugh. “He enjoyed the meal and had several helpings.”

Eva: “I heard you served him human flesh to test to see if he really was a god. Why would you do such a thing knowing how appalled he was about cannibalism?”

Lycaon: His dark eyes looked distant and pained. “It was on account on how he ruined my daughter Callisto and caused her own son to nearly kill her.”

Eva: “Yes, I heard Zeus was a cad, but was it really his fault? I heard he was a lady’s man or rather god.”

Lycaon: He glanced at me with those stalking eyes before continuing. “My daughter, Callisto vowed to preserve her virginity to remain the hunting companion of Artemis.

His eyes glistened but he continued. “However, one day as she sat alone in the wood Zeus came and seduced her. She became pregnant and gave birth to my grandson Arkas. In a fit of jealous rage, his wife, Hera turned my dear wonderful daughter into a bear. Later, when Arkas was grown, a bear wondered into the sanctuary of Zeus. Arkas decided to hunt her and before my grandson killed his own mother, Zeus transferred her to the stars. When Arkas died long after, he too was placed amongst the stars next to his mother. Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.”

Eva: I watched as he dabbed at a tear. I no longer viewed him as a ruthless cannibal but a father seeking justice for a wronged daughter. “What exactly happened after Zeus found out you fed him human meat?”

Lycaon: He gulped down his entire glass and smacked his lips. “He struck all my sons with thunderbolts turning them all into werewolves. I ran but as I hid in the open market he struck at me and I too was transformed into a powerful wolf.” He poured himself another glass.

Eva: What was this transformation like?”

Lycaon: My fine garments tore as fur bristled on my skin and my face elongated into a snout and feet became paws. I dropped to all fours and began to alter painfully. My ears grew pointy and my gums bled profusely, turning my teeth into sharp fangs. I was chased out of my own kingdom. At first I ran in terror above the fields and howled in despair. I was famished and greedy for the blood of livestock and man.”
Eva: “I see you have the ability to shift at will. Did you learn to live with the curse?”

Lycaon: He inhaled the air as if a fresh loaf of bread had just been brought in. “I embraced the wolf in me wholeheartedly. I headed toward the mountains of Arkadia to join my pack made up of my sons. My sense of smell and hearing became enhanced. I had the stamina of a wild wolf and laughed at Zeus for making me stronger than man. Later my son’s and I learned to mix amongst my people and only hunted wild game. My people feared but revered me.”

Eva: I had always heard that his sons were killed. I like his version so much better. “So, any regrets?”

Lycaon: “My only regret was not protecting my daughter from Zeus and his spiteful queen, Hera. Yet, Callisto is forever immortal in the heavens. Even one of Jupiter’s moons is named for her.”

Eva: “May I add that your name is popular. You know that the Greek word for wolf is lykos.”

Lycaon: He laughed. “I have heard that werewolves are often called lycans.” He waved his hand dismissively. “And that lycan is part of some sort of mental miasma.”

Eva: “Lycanthropy is a clinical illness where the victim has the delusion that they have transformed into a real animal. A few clinical studies have shown that the part of the brain that perceives body image makes the person think they are animals. Body image distortions are common conditions, like the anorexic that perceives a fat body. You might like a book called The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat and Other Clinical Tales a 1985 book by neurologist Oliver Sacks. His case study was of a man with visual agnosia, who saw a hat instead of his wife.”

Lycaon: He shook his head. Most likely Zeus might have turned his wife into a hat.”

Eva: I should have remembered that Lycaon was not part of this realm.
“And you should be honored that the African wild dog was named after you. Lycaon pictus and the Eastern Timber wolf is Canis lupus lycaon
Lycaon pictus

Lycaon: He lifted a brow. “I’m not keen on a wild dog named after’ Lycaon’ but naming a wolf after me does my heart good.”
Eva: I wanted to tell him more about movies such as Underworld Rise of the Lycans and my novels about the secret lycan society but knew that we had run out of time. He was breathing rapidly and his clothing began to expand. His hands became furred and his joints began to crack. “I would like to thank you for the informative interview and hope you can come back later to answer more questions.”

Lycaon: He stood abruptly and snarled. “It was indeed a pleasure.”

Lycaon flung the door open with clawed hands and the bartender quickly shut and bolted it. I peered out the window as his grey wolf form ran up a hill. The night soon vibrated with the distant howls of Lycaon and his pack. I closed my laptop and asked for another glass of wine

Buy my books and find out about my werewolves

2009-11-25T10:05:00.000-08:00

Ask Doc Werewolf Wednesday

2009-11-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

Today I'm launching my new post called Ask Doc Werewolf Wednesday. Dear Abby for those who answer to the call of the wild. Come in and ask any werewolf concern you might have. Such as shift issues, alpha/beta issues, living with humans, my girlfriend is a werewolf issue. I will answer either immediately or wait a week while I consult the Lupercal Council. So any question just give me a howl. Please note my answers might be based on my Lupercal Society.