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Posts posted by Alan64
in Getting Started General Help and Advice
Quite a few double-stars require higher powers to split them, and to see the differing colors. A short-focus achromat(refractor) and a short-focus Newtonian/"Dobsonian" are going to be problematic in that regard.
Still, refractors and Maksutovs are best for double-star observations.
In so far as light-pollution, there are several ways to lessen its effects whilst observing, and with some requiring a bit of DIY, arts-and-crafts type work.
Aperture masks for 10 inch Dobsonian
What's the diameter of the built-in stopped-down? Ideally, you can make a separate aperture-mask, and have at least an 80mm unobstructed aperture, if not a 90mm...
Slow motion knobs on my EQ Mount
in Getting Started Equipment Help and Advice
The Celestron CG-3 mount, is the same as an EQ-2. It may that the mount's axes, along with the worm assembly, are bound up. They tend to ship like that from the factory. Here's how to adjust them...
https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/319273-meade-large-equatorialeq-2-hyper-tuning/?do=findComment&comment=3492379
Help with sighting the sight scope with the actual scope.
Posted June 30 · Edited June 30 by Alan64
Your kit is very similar to this one...
I have a finderscope that's just like it, and from an entry-level kit I got back in February...
To improve the stability when adjusting it, and to preserve the alignment for a much longer period of time, line the front portion of the tube-holder with the thinnest self-adhesive felt you can find...
Or, you can use masking-tape, or whatever else that would work. You simply want to thicken the circumference of the holder, and inward about a half-inch or so from the front. You can apply whichever to the tube itself, but it works best inside the holder instead.
What eyepiece should I choose?
On 29/06/2019 at 00:28, Astrotamer said:
Hello ,I am a begginner at astonomy and I have bought slt 130 telescope.What i need to buy to have the perfect observation in solar system and deep sky objects?
thank,you!
Your telescope has a focal-length of 650mm. That's a bit on the short side in order to realise the higher powers associated with lunar, planetary and double-star observations. That's where you have two choices: either a 2x and a 3x barlow even, with Plossls, or more expensive eyepieces that have barlowing lens-elements already built in. A 130mm aperture is theoretically capable of up to 250x, but there are a few variables that will prevent that, one being the atmospheric seeing conditions. Near the horizon, observing through the atmosphere is akin to looking through a bowl of broth. The atmosphere is thinnest at the zenith, straight up overhead. Planets become interesting at 150x or so...
650mm ÷ 150x = a 4.3mm eyepiece, or 4mm to round it off. Some combine a 12mm Plossl, or other design, inexpensively, with a 3x barlow for a simulated 4mm. Others choose eyepieces that have barlowing lens-elements, with wider fields-of-view, longer eye-relief, and larger eye-lenses through which to see; for examples...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/bst-starguider-eyepieces/bst-starguider-60-5mm-ed-eyepiece.html (130x)
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/bst-starguider-eyepieces/bst-starguider-60-32mm-ed-eyepiece.html (203x)
With a go-to mount, like the SLT, it's easier to reach those higher powers. The collimation of the 130mm f/5 Newtonian should also be spot-on, as a telescope has to work harder to produce sharp, pleasing images at those higher powers. Also, with a go-to mount, you don't really need wider-angle eyepieces, as the mount keeps you from having to bump and nudge the telescope in order to keep an object in view. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit of perspective, a bit of "real estate", the black sky surrounding the object, then wider-angle eyepieces will provide that.
The telescope itself comes with a 2" focusser. You might choose a 2" 32mm 70° eyepiece, and for your largest view of the sky, for deep-sky venues and vistas; for example...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/ovl-eyepieces/panaview-2-eyepieces.html (20x, and binocular-like)
That's the lowest-priced option for a 2" low-power eyepiece, therefore you might see some distortions at the edges of the view, but it wouldn't render it useless. Else, you can choose a 32mm Plossl; for example...
https://www.365astronomy.com/32mm-GSO-Plossl-Eyepiece.html (20x)
For medium-power observations, choose an eyepiece from 12mm to 16mm, or even a 20mm, a Plossl or a wide-angle. Do not choose Plossls shorter than 9mm, unless you want to rough it.
Buying second telescope....
Sometimes you've got to give, and sometimes you've got to take...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/reflectors/sky-watcher-explorer-130ps-az-pronto.html
Short Focus Refractor
1 hour ago, devdusty said:
Thanks to everyone for their advice and comments. I note your recommendation Alan for the Skywatcher Evostar 90mms reftactor.
In fact my daughter bought this for me 5 years ago as a combined 65 th birthday and Xmas present. I selected it as I was advised it was suitable for towns with bad light pollution.
I found it too long and bulky for me to carry in and out to the back garden.
Also I never got to grips with the equatorial mount.! It never seemed to move in the direction I wanted it to.
The other telescope that might just be in my price range is the Skywatcher Startravel 80mms refractory on an altazi muth mount.
If anyone has advice or comments about it , I would be grateful to hear them.
Chris P
Similarly to John's suggestion, I had initally thought of a 90mm Maksutov as an option, and when I was composing my previous reply, but I didn't mention it because it and a mount may go over your budget. Nonetheless, that would be an ideal telescope given the observing agenda and the desire for an ease of handling. This Celestron C90 Maksutov, which belongs to a relation, is shown here mounted upon my revamped EQ-1 equatorial, which is the very smallest of equatorial mounts on the planet...
The two go together like Punch and Judy, but I wanted you to see just how diminutive a 90mm Maksutov is in fact, given your handling concerns, and if you might within the mind, to compare it to your Sky-Watcher 90mm f/10 achromat. This is my Meade 90mm f/10 achromat, and on its EQ-2, which is the next size up from an EQ-1...
Incidentally, your 90mm f/10 achromat is also mounted onto a larger EQ-2.
Here they are, two 90mm telescopes, yet of differing types, side by side...
Now picture that 90mm Maksutov upon an alt-azimuth, and it wouldn't have to be a large one, comparable even to the size of that diminutive EQ-1. Don't consider an AZ-3, no, but this one rather...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/sky-watcher-az-pronto/sky-watcher-az-pronto-alt-azimuth-mount-tripod.html
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/maksutov/skywatcher-skymax-90-ota.html
By the way, why is that dovetail-bar upside-down???
Then, there is this whole kit, with that same alt-azimuth mount, but with a 100mm Maksutov...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/maksutov/sky-watcher-skymax-102-az-pronto.html
Either would make for an ideal kit for your purposes. I do realise that it's more costly. Else, I'd go with the Sky-Watcher 130P, and place it on a table in the garden. If not that one still, then perhaps this kit...
https://www.rothervalleyoptics.co.uk/bresser-messier-ar-80600-az-nano-telescope.html
On 13/06/2019 at 10:28, devdusty said:
Further to my post about the Skywatcher flexible 130 p, I am now looking at a short focus tefractor. I am 70 years old so can only manage to carry a fairly lightweight telescope into my back garden.
I am interested in viewing the moon, double stars, bright planets and the brighter star clusters.
I am looking to purchase one of the following
Celestron travel scope 70
Bresse r Classic 70/350
Skywatcher mercury 705 70mms.
I understand that these telescopes have limitations, but they the only ones in my price range.
Any comments or advice would be welcome.
You have quite the conundrum there. On the one hand, you want a kit that's light in weight, but on the other you want a telescope for lunar, planetary and stellar observations; the brighter objects in the night sky. That's where an entry-level refractor might fail you, as short, achromatic refractors exhibit false-colour when aimed at the brighter objects, and resulting in images that are less sharp and clear. In addition, the shorter focal-lengths of those achromats would make it more difficult to reach the higher powers associated with said observations.
This kit would be better suited for that...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/evostar/sky-watcher-mercury-707-az-telescope.html
It's not big at all, nor heavy. The equatorial version, if you'd like to track the objects...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/evostar/sky-watcher-capricorn-70-eq1-refractor.html
These two 90mm f/10 kits would be the next step up in a refractor...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/evostar/skywatcher-evostar-90-az3.html
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/evostar/skywatcher-evostar-90-eq2.html
...that is, if you don't want to have to maintain a Newtonian, like the Sky-Watcher 130P "Heritage"...
https://www.firstlightoptics.com/reflectors/skywatcher-heritage-130p-flextube.html
That telescope would require a bit more of a learning-curve, but it is compact and with 130mm of aperture. You would need barlows, a 2x, and/or even a 3x, to reach the higher powers more readily.
Can not figure out this part??
I have only one Crayford, and that I've never used, nor the telescope to which it belongs...
However, I overwhelmingly prefer rack-and-pinion focussers; call me old-school or backwards.
A nice refractor for lunar/solar ?
On 04/06/2019 at 14:10, John said:
Thats the FC-100DL.
...and the best of the line currently. A fortunate and wise choice you had made.
Skywatcher MAK127 advice
A Maksutov would indeed complement the 130P-DS, as one is the "antithesis" of the other. The full range of magnifications would then be covered with the two: the 130P-DS for low to low-medium power observing, the Maksutov for medium-to-high powers, and both on the one mount, interchangeably.
I have my 127mm Maksutov on a manual alt-azimuth, and I have no trouble observing with it...
...motioning it to this object and that. It needs a good finder. If a lens-type, an 8x50 at minimum, and perhaps with a right-angled eyepiece; or, a reliable red-dot finder.
The secondary-mirror of a Gregorian or "spot" Maksutov, like the Sky-Watcher and others, including my own there, is fixed, non-adjustable. It's only the primary-mirror that's adjustable, and rarely does it require same.
Regardless of the type of telescope, when travelling the telescope should be protected, cushioned with padding or other.
Posted June 3 · Edited June 5 by Alan64
A 127mm Maksutov, with its much longer focal-length, is more of a specialty telescope, rather than an all-rounder like the one you have now. Using the same eyepiece, you don't get the same view of the sky with one as you do with the other. For example, here's the view of the Moon and the sky background with a 32mm Plossl inserted into your 130mm f/5 Newtonian(orange), and versus the same eyepiece inserted into a 127mm(actually 120mm) f/12 Maksutov(red)...
A Maksutov, since it cannot "see" a large area of the sky, usually requires a go-to mount to direct it. It can be used on a manual mount, but it would be more difficult to hunt, to locate obejcts. On the plus side, a Maksutov would make it easier to reach the higher powers associated with the Moon, the planets, and the double-stars; but many deep-sky objects as well. The views would probably be sharper in addition.
New Telescope
in Discussions - Scopes / Whole setups
Fair is fair, and for a saving grace, I reinstalled all of the original washers, but used Super Lube as the grease instead of the factory's...
Much better...
...the altitude motion much better indeed. I would think so, and after all of that.
Glamour shot...
No, that's not the Maksutov, as I don't think that the mount can support it properly. I got the Maksutov for itself, and the mount for my smaller telescopes, like that one, and both within a kit. That's my Antares 805, an 80mm f/6 achromat. Incidentally, this was the first time that refractor had been operated above 100x. Jupiter, at 160x, presented to my eye only a vague incidence of false-colour; a subtle violet veil it was, and barely extending outward. But so much for that, for it is an f/6 achromat, yet one that may be used to observe the larger planets after all, and the Moon in addition I already know, for myself in any event.
I then went inside and got the eyepiece-tray and extended the legs of the mount. Picking the kit up at that point, I could then carry it with one hand with little effort, and over to the south...
The telescope is aimed at Jupiter still, there, and at 80x. I rapped the tip of my middle finger forcefully onto the center of the telescope's tube: a 3- to 4-second damping-time. When the legs were retracted earlier, I had done the same, and the damping-time was at about 3 seconds.
The verdict? I like this wee mount, a lot, now, and with the alt righted...
But I still don't like that a metal head is joined to a metal hub via plastic. There's got to be an alternative, somehow, somewhere.
But before I reveal the final result, the azimuth axis...
That was easy enough. But this, not so much...
I cannot reach the lock-nut for the azimuth's bolt, due to that glued-in plastic disc with the two holes and the threaded brass insert, and without comprising it. Thoughts...
Okay, I'm done thinking. I will leave it alone for now, as it, unlike the alt had upon arrival, operates quite smoothly actually. But it will be revisited in future, as I do have bronze, PTFE, and Formica #909-42 laminate perhaps, waiting in the wings.
I soak the areas first with 100% acetone. I then scrape as much of the now-softened paint off and out with a blade. Next, sandpaper of varying grits, along with a little acetone, and to remove even more paint. Lastly, varying steel-wools down to #0000, and lemon oil, to tidy up and polish. The mating surface...
There, the paint has been removed, but what's that greyish coating; primer for the paint? Did they actually go to that much trouble there at the factory? I then sanded it some more with finer grits; this kind...
https://d2lnr5mha7bycj.cloudfront.net/product-image/file/large_424fc008-6b11-46c8-852c-9640b754f573.jpg
...and polished with the aforementioned...
No, I did not cause those scratches seen there. That was the factory's doing, with an industrial wire-brush possibly, and to make the primer and paint stick better, perhaps. The scratches are, at most, only cosmetic.
On the flip side...
Where washers for the bolt come in contact with that surface, and forward of the lock-nut, that was prepared as well. Beforehand, all surfaces were gritty, rough, like sandpaper itself, and which had scratched and "boogered" up the surface of that large nylon washer. I then smoothed and polished the washer out with the fine wool and oil, and in preparation...
The altitude axis...
Without and with flash...
The mount, an ES "Twilight Nano"...
...no slow-motion controls, nor clamps or locks for the axes.
The knob there, to clamp the head to the hub, was loose within the box; not a big deal.
Who paints bearing surfaces, I ask. I know that Synta and Ningbo Sunny do; so why break up a set, as JOC is also complicit...
At first, I thought that this large washer might be of PTFE(Teflon), but no, it's of nylon, and adequate for this design I suppose...
Second-light...
I observed Polaris straight-through, without the diagonal, and threw the star out of focus; no change, the patterns were identical to the image shown previously. I now know that my roulette-wheel star-prism is indeed collimated, as I had renovated and tested it a while back. I tried to take snaps of the pattern, and with seven shots this time round, but all seven were duds. Of course, it was more difficult to attempt without the diagonal in place. I brightened each one even, and nothing appeared.
In focus, at 190x with the 10mm, on both mornings, I could see the Airy disc of Polaris sharply, and at least two diffraction-rings encircling it, but the seeing, at Pickering 6, from fair to good, mucked the view up a bit, with annoying rays dancing within and about the rings. On this second night there were a number of cloudlets rolling across the sky, but the haze was gone.
Jupiter was brighter this time round as a result, like a 40-watt bulb, at 190x. There would be no seeing any spots this night however, I knew, but it was a good show nonetheless.
I didn't wait on the Moon, as it was due to appear even later than the morning before.
8 minutes ago, johninderby said:
Sounds like you like the new scope.
By leaps and by bounds, I do. I just hope it doesn't disappoint in future.
First-light continued with Polaris, the North Star, at 190x...
...most impressive. Incidentally, I've had my camera, again, since 2002, but it's only now that I've discovered how to adjust the shutter; pathetic, I know. But as a result, I may now take sharper afocal shots through an eyepiece, and in a split-second. Right afterwards, I threw Polaris out-of-focus and took ten shots. All but one were duds. The one...
It's there. Look sharp.
Here, I've brightened the image...
The extra-focal and intra-focal sightings were identical.
Now, that's with my Celestron star-prism diagonal integrated, and as it was throughout the first-light.
I had thought about this at the time, although not pertaining to this exercise: "Can a mis-collimated diagonal cause a mis-collimated telescope to appear collimated?"
Lastly, the Moon...
The Moon appeared there in the sky as though it had fallen into a bowl of chicken broth, floating just beneath the surface, glowing. It wasn't very high up above the horizon...
The live view, of course, was sharper, as always. I do want this telescope to exhibit what it's capable of, but that's not going to be forthcoming for a while I'm afraid. There's been too much water around here. The Mississippi River, the largest in the U.S., is about ten miles to the west of my digs. Currently, it is at a level and longevity approaching that of its infamous Great Flood of 1927.
By the way, the mount's been sorted, mostly, and to where it's usable. I'll be showcasing that in a bit.
"Like the way the inside of the OTA has micro baffles all the way front to back. So much better that just a painted surface."
Yes, I had seen those online, but not as clearly as this...
And here I have this new box of Protostar...
Alternately, I have to wonder if JOC's factory-black is as black as my rattle-can of chalkboard-black. That stuff is almost as black as a black hole...
There's got to be something or other within to flock. I might at least flock from the meniscus almost all the way back to the primary. The baffled surface would have to be high-glossed, for improved adhesion. However, I do suspect that in that the telescope will sport a flocked dew-shield 24/7/365, then perhaps said enhancements would be to no avail.
Incidentally, whilst mucking about inside with the camera, it seems that JOC's clean-rooms, if equipped, aren't up to the task.
39 minutes ago, johninderby said:
On the "baffling" subject have you read this? Some very usefull info.
http://mirrorworkshop.mtbparker.com/cassegrainBaffleStory.html
One of the Orion type finder mount fits directly Using the original holes. Be aware that the rear dust cover of the scope that covers the metal back plate is plastic and the finder screws strip easily. I taped the holes to M5 and it seems solid. You could always remove or just parially remove the dust cover enough to put nyloc niuts on the inside for a really solid job.
Like the way the inside of the OTA has micro baffles all the way front to back. So much better that just a painted surface.
Thank you for that most useful link, John.
Yes, I see...
And here I thought it was of metal. Why am I not surprised. Incidentally, the focussing knob was loose upon arrival. It takes a 1.3mm hex-key, but I'm fresh out of those, so I used one of those tiny flat bits from a mini magnetic screwdriver.
Also, might I integrate a 2" visual-back to this, please? Would it be worth it, given the diameter of the primary's bore?
First light...no, not when I took that image of the leaves during the day...
The very first celestial object I saw through my new and only Cassegrain was old Jove, and at 190x...
Of course it's blurred. I used a 2002 Minolta 4MP point-and-shoot, and with a manual mount. Still, you can see a single moon at upper-left.
All four were seen quite well during the live view, naturally. When I first had the planet in view, I saw one moon emerging from the side of the planet. It appeared as a little bright dot, and sharp. That was nice.
The image brightened, and now two moons are visible...
The moon closest to the planet there was the one that had emerged earlier.
The whole night I was bothered by cloudlets and haze wafting across the sky. It's nigh summer. But the haze did have a beneficial effect. Jupiter was dimmed slightly in consequence, its lovely colouring revealed, as shown.
The only detail seen on the planet's surface were the usual equatorial bands; and perhaps, just perhaps, a spot that I think I saw, but cannot say for certain. This is the eyepiece I used: a 10mm 70°...
...and with these strange, amber-like coatings...
...much mysterious, that one.
Despite the 1900mm focal-length of this telescope, I have little to no trouble in quickly bringing the objects that I view regularly to bear within an eyepiece: Polaris, the major planets, and the Moon; even in the absence of a finder. I simply sight alongside the tube. Here, under Bortle-4 skies, which might easily become -5 in future, there are a number of globular-clusters that I can readily locate, but not by sighting down the tube.
This is the base for the red-dot finder, and similar to that of a Meade...
At first I thought it was of metal.
I have a couple of Vixen-type bases, but I'll need longer screws to attach one; and yet another trip to my local hardware, to where I've suggested a cot in the back of the store.
I have this 8x50 straight-through...
That will do for the time being, and another red-dot that I have in addition. I'll try both and see which performs best for my purposes.
The dovetail-bar is of white-painted metal, and with a steel strip fastened onto one side, as a clamping surface. That of the Bresser is identical, but painted black...
I'd like to replace it; perhaps tube-rings in addition. That would add extra weight however.
The plastic dust-cap has two locking tabs...
The meniscus is multi-coated and uniform...
...and very much like that of my Meade 90mm achromat...
The secondary-baffle, and flared, like a vortex,...
That will be altered, or ripped out altogether, albeit ever so gently. As I understand, the telescope as it sits is optimised for daytime/terrestrial use. That won't do. Its presence also increases the size of the obstruction, and that won't do either.
The primary-baffle...
The reverse of the Gregorian "spot", and facing outwards...
I've thought about a matte-black disc. Schmidts don't seem to have that problem....
https://www.flickr.com/photos/140554065@N05/47962213786/in/dateposted-public/
The collimation appears bang-on fresh out of the box...
I made a dew-shield straight away, in a pinch, and with these sheets of art-paper...
As I had said before, the bundled mount, an ES "Twilight Nano", cannot be utilised at present, notwithstanding the fact that it's not ideally supportive. My only recourse was to place the telescope upon my Astro-Tech Voyager I, a GSO product...
I didn't dare take it out of the house without a dew-shield, with the micro flora and fauna whizzing round.
The only thing I could point it at were tree leaves in the distance, lots of them. So I did, and at 190x...
The live view was sharper of course, as the eye and mind can follow an object more easily when a breeze ensues.


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Tomatoes, a blue story book, and the most unconventional theatre experience you will ever encounter. Nassim Soleimanpour's self-titled play Nassim is an exploration of motherhood, language, and storytelling with a unique premise – a new actor performs the play every night, having never seen the script or rehearsed beforehand, while receiving stage directions from the playwright himself. As a result, the play erases boundaries between the content and its creator, the actor and their process. No audience will ever see the same play twice.
Soleimanpour's story has been written about in the media so many times. An Iranian writer who has written critically acclaimed plays like White Rabbit, Red Rabbit and BLANK, Soleimanpour refused national service in Iran, and as a result he was denied a passport for some time. Eventually released from this situation on medical grounds, he now lives and works in Germany. He first introduced the concept of an unseen play with White Rabbit, Red Rabbit, partially out of necessity since he could not leave the country to rehearse with his actors on the source material. Now, with the travel restriction removed, he's far more hands on, controlling the way his story is told, and witnessing the magic happen right in front of him.
The play features a minimalist setting and clever lighting, with the audience seated in close proximity to the action, allowing us to get physically and emotionally involved with the material being presented to us. The 70 minute piece is witty, original, and infused with humour, however the poignant themes often hit you out of the blue. I'm not ashamed to say that the final act of the play made me cry. It is a testament to witty writing, effective motifs, and the strong universality of the storyline that the play touches your heart, and leaves you thinking.
While based upon the playwright's life, the work chips away at global boundaries and remains especially applicable to the experiences of migrants who can relate to the way language both divides and unites us, and the unique relationship we share with our motherland and mother tongue. Performed in English and Farsi, the play is a clever and subversive piece of contemporary theatre that walks away from the traditional boundaries of drama as we know it. However, it still manages to raise important questions about the way migrants face alienation and loss of culture in a world that continues to other them and their languages.
Nassim is not a play for those who want to stick to traditional theatre. It is a play for innovators, dreamers, and people who aim to break boundaries. It's a breeze, it's a delight, and it is a must watch.


Note: For Xiaomi and Huawei phones, it is necessary to first create a contact card with the unwanted number to block it.
There is no internal Android functionality for recording phone conversations. However, if call recording applications are available on the Play Store, it is possible that most of them no longer work with the arrival of Android Pie, Google has chosen to restrict the development of this type of application. application for legal reasons in some countries.
The only known exception is MIUI overlay Xiaomi manufacturer, where it is possible to activate call recording in the settings.
put the call into speakerphone.
On YouTube, click on the small dots at the top of the window and select "Computer version"
Start your music, minimize the window. If the music pauses after the window is minimized, click the play button in the notification banner.


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Boris Johnson rejects 'white flag' of Brexit delays
Published at 10:47 pm June 15th, 2019
Former British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, who is running to succeed Theresa May as Prime Minister, leaves his home in London, Britain, May 28, 2019 Reuters
Johnson said London could finally get what it wanted once it made abundantly clear to Brussels that it could walk away without a deal
UK leadership race frontrunner Boris Johnson insisted Friday he would never raise the "white flag" of surrender and plead for a further delay of Brexit if no EU deal was ready by October 31.
The former foreign minister also said he would replace the controversial "backstop" solution for keeping the Irish border open after Brexit with advanced technological checks along the new EU frontier.
He also bowed to growing political pressure and agreed to debate the other Conservative Party contenders to replace outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May on BBC television Tuesday evening.
The field of hopefuls to take on one of the most challenging political assignments in Europe narrowed to six on Friday after Health Secretary Matt Hancock withdrew.
But the odds-on favourite is Johnson - a figurehead of the 2016 referendum that triggered the laborious process of extricating Britain from the European Union after nearly 50 years.
Johnson said London could finally get what it wanted once it made abundantly clear to Brussels that it could walk away without a deal.
"We've got to be out by October 31," Johnson told BBC radio in one of his most extensive public interviews since May resigned last month.
"Unless we show fortitude and determination, I don't think we will carry conviction in Brussels about the deal we want to do."
Yet he appeared to keep the door open - if only slightly - when pressed if he would follow the lead of his main rivals and postpone Brexit briefly if a compromise seemed imminent.
"I think it would be absolutely bizarre to signal at this stage that the UK government was willing once again to run the white flag and delay yet again," he said.
'Prepare for no-deal'
May was forced to step down after having to twice ask the EU to push back the withdrawal date so that the sides could avoid breaking up without a plan for what comes next.
The foot-dragging prompted frustrated Britons on both sides of the Brexit divide to punish the two big parties in European elections last month.
Johnson said his Conservatives and the main opposition Labour faced an "existential threat" from populist Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and the pro-EU Liberal Democrats.
But the solution he aired for resolving the Brexit crisis was one Brussels has repeatedly rejected in the past.
Johnson said the nagging issue of keeping EU member Ireland's border free-flowing with the British province of Northern Ireland - the so-called "backstop" - should only be tackled after Brexit takes effect on October 31.
Johnson also insisted that the other 27 EU leaders would - when pressed by him - drop their past resistence and agree to technological checks conducted away from the border itself.
EU officials argue that the sides currently lack the equipment and IT support needed to handle such vast volumes of trade without physical checks.
Johnson collected more votes than his three nearest rivals in the first ballot held by the 313 Conservative lawmakers in the lower House of Commons on Thursday.
Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt's second-place finish saw him secure 43 votes and the temporary lead among the more moderate challengers for the top government job.
Environment minister Michael Gove picked up 37 and remains the only other contender to have enough support to make the cut when lawmakers vote again Tuesday.
Johnson dismissed growing criticism of his past refusal to speak to reporters and said he was ready to debate everyone left standing after Tuesday's vote.
"I think in the past when you've had loads of candidates it can be slightly cacophonous," he said.
His opponents had challenged him to join them on stage Sunday during the first scheduled TV debate.
Gove said on Monday that Britain needed a leader who did "not hide in their bunker."
The party's 160,000 grassroots members will pick their new leader among two finalists chosen by parliamentarians in upcoming votes.
The winner will assume May's job in the week beginning July 22.
Iran rejects idea of a new 'Trump deal' in nuclear row
Labour's lost leaders
The sweeping rise of nationalism
Johnson: Let's get Brexit done and end division in 2020
Sunday Times: Trump invites Britain's Johnson to the White House in new year
UK on track for Jan 31 Brexit as PM Johnson wins vote on deal
Britain PM candidate

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


If you've been missing Honda's pickup truck, fear not, the Ridgeline will be back in 2017 with a whole new look. The all-new Honda Ridgeline is still in development, but Motor Trend was able to grab some spy shots of the prototype.
The new Ridgeline will have the same underpinnings as the 2016 Honda Pilot, which received an extensive makeover this year. Along with its underpinnings, the Ridgeline and Pilot will also share the same engine and 4-wheel drive system.
The spy shots aren't the first we've seen of the new Ridgeline. At this month's SEMA show, we got a look at the Honda Ridgeline Desert Race Truck, which will race this weekend at the Baja 1000. Although the Desert Race Truck version of the Ridgeline only shares a few elements with the production model, it is a good enough preview to hold us over until the Ridgeline makes its official debut.
So when can we expect to see the 2017 Honda Ridgeline? Look for its debut early next year at either the Detroit Auto Show or the Chicago Auto Show.
No seat belts? That's a big no-no!
November is Child Safety and Protection Month, a special time of the year dedicated to reminding parents and all adults of basic care that can help to keep children safe and possibly save lives.
Be sure to utilize modern, tested, and well-reviewed child safety seats and safety belts that are designed for the specific child's age and size.
Never leave your keys vulnerable to a child, allowing them to potentially turn on and operate your vehicle.
Keep a basic first aid kit in the back of your vehicle, so that you may be able to help a child in the event of an accident.
Familiarize yourself with the allergies and any medical conditions of any child passengers you may host, and act accordingly.
Never, ever leave a child locked in a car on a warm day, as the interior temperatures can become deadly in minutes.
Do you have any other ideas? Let us know how you keep young passengers safe in the comments below.


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Home / Andhra Pradesh Tourist Places / Tourist Places Chittoor / Chandragiri Fort | Historical Fort Andhra Pradesh
Chandragiri Fort | Historical Fort Andhra Pradesh
In Tourist Places Chittoor
Chandragiri is a town in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh state in southern India.
Chandragiri Fort Timings : 10:00 am to 8:45 pm
Geography: Chandragiri is located at 13.5833° N 79.3167° E. It has an average elevation of 198 meters (652 feet).
Chandragiri Fort was built in 1000 AD in the form of fortifications and bastions by the Yadavarays who ruled it for around three centuries. The monuments of Chandragiri, as a result, mostly comprise of such historical buildings. This south Indian region came under the rule of the Vijaynagara Kings in 1367 AD. They transferred their capital from Penukonda to Chandragiri. Both the natural defences of Chandragiri, which is ringed by hills, and the proximity to the Venkateshwara shrine at Tirumala, 11 km (7 miles) to the north-east, were responsible for the decision to locate here. Chandragiri in Andhra Pradesh flourished under their reign as they when on to further fortify the place and built a number of beautiful temples and buildings. After the fall the Vijayanagara Empire, it came under the control of the Aravidu dynasty.
The fort saw its best days under their reign. The town fell to the Sultan of Golconda in 1646 and was annexed into the Golconda Territory. Later it came under Mysore rule when it was captured by Hyder Ali, in 1782.It remained under their possession till 1792 following which it slowly faded into oblivion. Today, it is part of the region of Tirupati.
Being a chiefly fortified town, inside the fortification are seen eight temples of Shaivite and Vaishnavite pantheons, Raja Mahal, Rani Mahal and other ruined structures. The Chandragiri Fort was originally built in 1000 AD by Immadi Narasimha Yadavaraya and later was much renovated by the Vijayanagara kings. It is strategically located on the top of a hill which is 183 m high. An enclosed wall and a ditch around the fort act as protection against possible attacks. There are two mahals situated in the remains of the lower fort on the ground floor. The lower part of the effort is built in stone while the upper is built in brick. The Upper Fort, reputed to date from 1000, stands on a 183 m (600 ft) outcrop of granite in an impregnable location high over the valley. At its base is a fortified zone. This is divided into three enclosures, with defensive gateways along an east-west road. Within the central enclosure are two well-preserved palaces, a tank and other civic structures.
Raja Mahal or King`s Palace: this impressive three stories palace has been constructed in the typical Indo-Saracenic architecture of the Mughal period. Lime, mortar, stone and brick have been used in constructing the building with absolutely no use of timber. The floors are supported by massive pillars while the walls bear fine plaster and stucco decorations. The palace 150 feet long with a facade enriched with pointed arches and a skyline broken by pyramidal towers, the largest crossing the Durbar Hall. The hall is surrounded by a two-storey colonnade, which acts as a clerestory, allowing light to penetrate the space. The building is faced in stucco and the whole complex shows considerable ingenuity and flair. It is said to be the same venue where Sri Rangaraya granted the site of Fort St. George to the British in 1640 AD. The palace is now an archaeological museum.
Rani Mahal or Queen`s Palace: It is quite similar to the Kings palace in style and method of execution. The edifice has a flat roof. The ground floor resembles a stable and first floor contains quarters that have been decorated with ornamental sikhara. Even though it was popularly believed that the place was meant for the Queen or the harem, it has been seen from the epigraphical records available in the basement that the buildings was intended as a commander`s quarters.
The Chandagiri fort is well worth a visit, especially in the evenings. The entire fort comes alive with a light show and is a beautiful sight to behold.
Sound and light Show timing at Chandragiri Fort.
Booking Counter.
Winter Shows : November to Feburary.
First Show starts at 6.30 p.m, this is a Telugu version
Second Show starts at 7.30 p.m, this is a English version
Entry Fees: Adult Rs 45/- Child Rs 35 for 5 to 12 years below.
After 6.pm only Entry for Sound & light Show.
With effective from 01-12-2012.
Chandragiri Light Show Entry Fee, Chandragiri Light Show Timing, Place to Visit in Tirupati, Tirupati Chandragiri Fort, Tourist Places In Tirupati
Sri Pallikondeeswara Swamy Temple | Surutapalli Temple Timings,
Gurram Konda Fort | Historical Place to Visit in Chittoor
Talakona Waterfalls Forest Guest House Room Rent – Rules and Regulations
Bharadwaja Theertham Sri Kalahasti Temples Near Srikalahasti Temple
Municipal Park Tirupati | Tourist Places Tirupati
Tumbhuru Teertham Tirumala | Tumburu Theertham Tirumala Hills
Uraban Hut | Shilparamam in Tirupati
Puli Gundu Penumur Chittoor | Puli Gunteeswara Swamy | Puligundu Chittoor
Regional Science Center | Tourist Places Chittoor


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Archives for posts with tag: Riddle
May 2015 to May 2018: Magazines of Fantasy and Science Fiction in which I've Published Stories Plus the New Novella and Flash Fiction in the Dystopia Anthology Lisa Mason #magazinestories #anthologystory #novella #sciencefiction #fantasy #nearfuture #speculativefiction #publishedstories #publishednovella
If you'd like to subscribe The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, now in its 69th year of continuous publication, please go to https://www.sfsite.com/fsf/subscribe.htm. There is an online edition, and you can probably acquire these back issues (or any recent back issue), too.
From the top left:
"Teardrop" May-June 2015
"Tomorrow Is A Lovely Day" November-December 2015
"Anything For You" September-October 2016
One Day in the Life of Alexa (Bast Books) May 2017
"Riddle" September-October 2017
"Aurelia" January-February 2018
"The Bicycle Whisperer" May-June 2018
"Dangerous" Welcome to Dystopia (ed. Gordon Van Gelder, O/R Books) January 2018
So there you have it, my friends. I'll be doing an interview with the magazine regarding "The Bicycle Whisperer" in May or June. In meantime, enjoy the issue. If you've got a kind word to say about my story, please review it on your blogsite, review site, Facebook, Twitter, or wherever else you roam online.
Tags "Aurelia", "Dangerous" in Welcome to Dystopia, "The Bicycle Whisperer", "The Bicycle Whisperer" in May-June 2018 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Anything For You, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, One Day in the Life of Alexa, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Riddle in the September-October 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Teardrop, Teardrop by Lisa Mason, Tomorrow Is A Lovely Day, Tomorrow Is A Lovely Day by Lisa Mason
Categories "Aurelia" by Lisa Mason, "Aurelia" in the January-February 2018 of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, "Aurelia" in the January-February Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, "Dangerous", "The Bicycle Whisperer", "The Bicycle Whisperer" in May-June 2018 FandSF, 2018, Aging, Anything For You, Anything For You by Lisa Mason, Authors, Bast Books, Bicycles, Books, Booksellers, Bookstore, bookstores, Contemporary Fantasy, contemporary women, Dark modern fantasy, dystopia, Erotic Horror, Facebook Author Page, Facebook Personal Page, Fantasy, Futuristic Fiction, Goodreads Book Review, Goodreads Review, Gordon Van Gelder, Librarians, Libraries, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Longevity, Longevity Drug, Magazine Story, Magazines, modern fantasy, Near Future, New Story by Lisa Mason, Novella, One Day in the Life of Alexa, Print Book, Published Book, Published Stories, Published Story, Published Worldwide, Refugees, Review of "Anything For You", Review of "Teardrop", Reviews of "Tomorrow Is A Lovely Day" by Lisa Mason, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Runaways, San Francisco, San Francisco Chronicle Recommended Book, Science fiction, Speculative Fiction, Stories, Teardrop, Teardrop by Lisa Mason, The Bicycle Whisperer, The Bicycle Whisperer in May-June 2018 FandSF Magazine, Tomorrow Is A Lovely Day, Tomorrow Is A Lovely Day by Lisa Mason
Enjoy "Riddle" and "Aurelia" in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction? Don't Miss "Felicitas" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories by Lisa Mason #SFWApro #SFWAauthor #darkfantasy #modernfantasy #erotichorror #shortstory #magazinestory
Do you enjoy dark modern fantasy with a sexy, supernatural twist? The January-February 2018 issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, within which you will find my well-received story, "Aurelia", will be on the news stand for only two more weeks. Here's one of many reviews: "Aurelia" sticks to its theme in a skillfully executed and very entertaining manner. The writing itself feels like a cross between thoroughly modern dark fantasy, and classics like Poe and Lovecraft, dragging you forward, almost against your own will. If you like dark fantasy, mysteries, and gorgeous prose, "Aurelia" is for you." https://www.tangentonline.com/print–bi-monthly-reviewsmenu-260/221-fantasy-a-science-fiction/3705-fantasy-a-science-fiction-januaryfebruary-2018.
In the September-October 68th Anniversary 2017 issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, I published another dark modern fantasy, "Riddle." Here's a review that story: "This is a well-executed supernatural story which brings a fascinating mythical being into a contemporary context and has a lot of fun with what happens next. The main characters are convincingly portrayed and the plot plays out remorselessly to a dramatic conclusion." http://sfcrowsnest.info/the-magazine-of-fantasy-science-fiction-sept-oct-2017-volume-133-733-magazine-review/
In the same vein, I published "Felicitas," another dark modern fantasy with erotic overtones told entirely from the point of view of the supernatural entity. The story originally appeared in an anthology, Desire Burn: Women Writing from the Dark Side of Passion (Carroll & Graf), edited by the late Janet Berliner, who was then the President of Horror Writers of America. "Felicitas" has been republished in my first collection, Strange Ladies: 7 Stories. In The San Francisco Book Review, critic David Marshall wrote: "One of the joys of reading collections is getting a better sense of an author's range. In this instance, Strange Ladies offers everything you could possibly want, from more traditional science fiction and fantasy tropes to thought-provoking explorations of gender issues and pleasing postmodern humor. In each of the stories, we meet a very different woman…This is a must-read collection." Strange Ladies: 7 Stories is on US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, BarnesandNoble, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. ORDER IN PRINT at https://www.amazon.com/Strange-Ladies-Stories-Lisa-Mason/dp/1981104380/!
So there you have it, my friends! From the author of Summer Of Love (a Philip K. Dick Award Finalist and San Francisco Chronicle Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle worldwide in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. BACK IN PRINT! Find the beautiful trade paperback at https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Love-Travel-Lisa-Mason/dp/1548106119/
Every Mystery Unexplained (in Tales of the Impossible) on BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. Also on Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, and India.
Tags "Aurelia", "Aurelia" by Lisa Mason, "Aurelia" in the January-February Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, "Felicitas", "Felicitas" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, Dark modern fantasy, dark urban fantasy, Erotic Horror, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Reviews of "Aurelia" in the January-February 2018 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Riddle in the September-October 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Strange Ladies: 7 Stories
Categories "Aurelia" by Lisa Mason, "Aurelia" in the January-February 2018 of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, "Aurelia" in the January-February Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, "Destination", "Destination" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, "Felicitas", "Felicitas" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, "Guardian", "Stripper" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, "The Oniomancer", "Transformation and the Post-modern Identity Crisis", 2018, Authors, Bast Books, Book Review, Books, Booksellers, Bookstore, bookstores, Contemporary Fantasy, dark urban fantasy, Ebooks, Erotic Horror, Fantasy, Fiction, Librarians, Libraries, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine Story, modern fantasy, Philip K. Dick Award Finalist, Print Book, Print books, Published Book, Published Story, Published Worldwide, Science fiction, Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, Urban Fantasy, Urban Fantasy and Beyond
Do you enjoy dark modern fantasy with a sexy, supernatural twist?
In the September-October 68th Anniversary issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, I published "Riddle." Here's one review of many: "Lisa Mason's 'Riddle' is a short fantasy story about a struggling San Francisco artist who is dumped by his ambitious lawyer girl-friend. He goes out, gets drunk, fails to score with the bar's new waitress and staggers home, only to find a half-naked woman hiding behind the bins outside his apartment. He lives in a crummy end of town, so doesn't want to leave her outside. However, he's also suspicious of being robbed by a stranger. Common humanity eventually triumphs and he lets her in for the night, only to find out that she's a lot stranger than he could possibly have imagined. This is a well-executed supernatural story which brings a fascinating mythical being into a contemporary context and has a lot of fun with what happens next. The main characters are convincingly portrayed and the plot plays out remorselessly to a dramatic conclusion." http://sfcrowsnest.info/the-magazine-of-fantasy-science-fiction-sept-oct-2017-volume-133-733-magazine-review/
Then, in the January-February 2018 issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, I published "Aurelia." Here's the first review of that story: "Rot. Molding leaves and fungus. The smell of soil. And a thoroughly despicable lawyer. Lisa Mason's "Aurelia" is a tour de force, an assault on the senses wrapped around a mystery, a tale of friendship and copious amounts of unscrupulous sex and a main character one loves to hate. And yet, Mason manages to make him engaging.
"Aurelia" sticks to its theme in a skillfully executed and very entertaining manner. The writing itself feels like a cross between thoroughly modern dark fantasy, and classics like Poe and Lovecraft, dragging you forward, almost against your own will. If you like dark fantasy, mysteries, and gorgeous prose, "Aurelia" is for you." https://www.tangentonline.com/print–bi-monthly-reviewsmenu-260/221-fantasy-a-science-fiction/3705-fantasy-a-science-fiction-januaryfebruary-2018
In the same vein, I published "Felicitas," another dark modern fantasy with erotic overtones told entirely from the point of view of a shapeshifter. The story originally appeared in an anthology, Desire Burn: Women Writing from the Dark Side of Passion (Carroll & Graf), edited by the late Janet Berliner, who was then the President of Horror Writers of America. "Felicitas" was republished in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories.
In The San Francisco Book Review, critic David Marshall wrote: "One of the joys of reading collections is getting a better sense of an author's range. In this instance, Strange Ladies offers everything you could possibly want, from more traditional science fiction and fantasy tropes to thought-provoking explorations of gender issues and pleasing postmodern humor. In each of the stories, we meet a very different woman…This is a must-read collection." Strange Ladies: 7 Stories is on US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, BarnesandNoble, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. ORDER IN PRINT at https://www.amazon.com/Strange-Ladies-Stories-Lisa-Mason/dp/1981104380/!
What a way to start 2018!
From the author of Summer Of Love, A Time Travel (a Philip K. Dick Award Finalist and San Francisco Chronicle Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW BACK IN PRINT at https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Love-Travel-Lisa-Mason/dp/1548106119/
The Gilded Age, A Time Travel (a New York Times Notable Book and New York Public Library Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW BACK IN PRINT at https://www.amazon.com/Gilded-Age-Time-Travel/dp/1975853172/
One Day in the Life of Alexa. On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW IN PRINT at https://www.amazon.com/One-Life-Alexa-Lisa-Mason/dp/1546783091.
The Garden of Abracadabra ("Fun and enjoyable urban fantasy . . . I want to read more!) On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW IN PRINT! ORDER at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1978148291/
Strange Ladies: 7 Stories ("A must-read collection—The San Francisco Review of Books). On Nook, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. ORDER IN PRINT at https://www.amazon.com/Strange-Ladies-Stories-Lisa-Mason/dp/1981104380/!
Arachne (a Locus Bestseller). On US Kindle, UK Kindle, Canada Kindle, Australia Kindle, Barnes and Noble, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in France Kindle, Germany Kindle, Italy Kindle, Netherlands Kindle, Spain Kindle, Mexico Kindle, Brazil Kindle, India Kindle, and Japan Kindle. SOON BACK IN PRINT.
Cyberweb (sequel to Arachne). is on US Kindle, BarnesandNoble, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. Also on UK Kindle, Canada Kindle, Australia Kindle, Brazil Kindle, France Kindle, Germany Kindle, India Kindle, Italy Kindle, Japan Kindle, Mexico Kindle, Netherlands Kindle, and Spain Kindle. SOON BACK IN PRINT.
My Charlotte: Patty's Story On Barnes and Noble, US Kindle, UK Kindle, Canada Kindle, Australia Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, Netherlands, and Mexico. SOON IN PRINT!
Tags "Aurelia", "Aurelia" by Lisa Mason, "Felicitas", "Felicitas" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, Contemporary Fantasy, Dark modern fantasy, dark urban fantasy, Erotic Horror, January-February 2018 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Twitter, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, reviews, Reviews of Strange Ladies, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, September-October 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Strange Ladies: 7 Stories
Categories "Aurelia" by Lisa Mason, "Aurelia" in the January-February Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, "Felicitas", "Felicitas" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, 2018, 68th Anniversary Issue of Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Authors, Bast Books, Books, Booksellers, Bookstore, bookstores, Certified Reseller, Contemporary Fantasy, contemporary women, Desire Burn Women Writing From the Dark Side of Passion, Desire Burn: Women Writing from the Dark Side of Passion (Carroll & Graf), Ebooks, Erotic Horror, Fantasy, Fiction, January-February 2018 The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine Story, Magazines, modern fantasy, Published Stories, Published Story, Published Worldwide, Publishing, Readers, Reading, Reviews of Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Sept-Oct 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Shapeshifters, Short Stories, Short Story, Speculative Fiction, Stories, Story Collection, Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, Writing
Do you enjoy dark modern fantasy with a supernatural twist?
In the same vein, I published "Felicitas," another dark modern fantasy with erotic overtones told from the point of view of a shapeshifter. The story originally appeared in an anthology, Desire Burn: Women Writing from the Dark Side of Passion (Carroll & Graf), edited by Janet Berliner. The story was republished in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories. In The San Francisco Book Review, critic David Marshall wrote: "One of the joys of reading collections is getting a better sense of an author's range. In this instance, Strange Ladies offers everything you could possibly want, from more traditional science fiction and fantasy tropes to thought-provoking explorations of gender issues and pleasing postmodern humor. In each of the stories, we meet a very different woman…This is a must-read collection." Strange Ladies: 7 Stories is on US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, BarnesandNoble, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. ORDER IN PRINT at https://www.amazon.com/Strange-Ladies-Stories-Lisa-Mason/dp/1981104380/!
What a way to start the New Year!
Tags "Aurelia", "Aurelia" by Lisa Mason, "Felicitas", "Felicitas" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, Contemporary Fantasy, Dark modern fantasy, dark urban fantasy, Erotic Horror, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Twitter, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, modern fantasy, Published Stories, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Stories, Story Collection, Strange Ladies: 7 Stories
Categories "Aurelia" by Lisa Mason, "Aurelia" in the January-February Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, "Destination" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, "Felicitas", "Felicitas" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, "Guardian", "Stripper" in Strange Ladies: 7 Stories, "The Oniomancer", "Transformation and the Post-modern Identity Crisis", "Triad", 2018, Authors, Bast Books, Books, Booksellers, Bookstore, bookstores, dark urban fantasy, Ebooks, Erotic Horror, Fantastic Alice, Fantastic Alice (Ace), Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Librarians, Libraries, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine Story, Magazines, modern fantasy, Philip K. Dick Award Finalist, Published Stories, Published Story, Published Worldwide, Publishing, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Science fiction, Speculative Fiction, Stories, Universe 2, Universe 2 (Bantam), Weird Fiction, Worldwide
Another Review of "Riddle" in the Sept-Oct Issue and Then We're Off to the January-February 2018 of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction Lisa Mason #SFWApro #magazinestory #darkfantasy #horror #F&SF @fandsf @SFWAauthors
This just came in today from the website, sfcrowsnest:
"Lisa Mason's 'Riddle' is a short fantasy story about a struggling San Francisco artist who is dumped by his ambitious lawyer girl-friend. He goes out, gets drunk, fails to score with the bar's new waitress and staggers home, only to find a half-naked woman hiding behind the bins outside his apartment. He lives in a crummy end of town, so doesn't want to leave her outside. However, he's also suspicious of being robbed by a stranger. Common humanity eventually triumphs and he lets her in for the night, only to find out that she's a lot stranger than he could possibly have imagined. This is a well-executed supernatural story which brings a fascinating mythical being into a contemporary context and has a lot of fun with what happens next. The main characters are convincingly portrayed and the plot plays out remorselessly to a dramatic conclusion." http://sfcrowsnest.info/the-magazine-of-fantasy-science-fiction-sept-oct-2017-volume-133-733-magazine-review/
Here are the rest of the reviews of "Riddle," which was published in the September-October 2017 68th Anniversary issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction.
Rich Horton's column in Locus Magazine:
There's plenty more good stuff this issue. Lisa Mason's ''Riddle'' is a slickly executed horror story about a declining painter whose girlfriend has left him, and who meets another woman – or is she a woman? The title hints at what she really is – and what she really does is pretty scary. (Don't have the link, this may be only in print.)
From Goodreads:
"Riddle" by Lisa Mason: a charged story about a down-and-out artist who meets an unusual female who speaks in riddles. Physical and emotional mayhem ensues. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36123438-the-magazine-of-fantasy-science-fiction-september-october-2017
And another review From Goodreads:
In all honestly, most of these had intriguing concepts and all of them were very well-written, but there were only a few that I would actually say I enjoyed. Just because of my personal tastes. Those being Lisa Mason's "Riddle" and Michael Swanwick's "Starlight Express". https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36123438-the-magazine-of-fantasy-science-fiction-september-october-2017
From Amazing Stories Online:
Lisa Mason's "Riddle" is set in a city we both love, San Francisco. (If you have been paying attention, you'll remember that her book Summer of Love has a special resonance for me, because I spent that particular Summer in the Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco.) This story takes place in North Beach, where in the '60s, Carol Doda (a 44DD, thanks to implants!) danced topless at the Condor Club. (If you remember the movie Dirty Harry, North Beach is near where the church was.) Edwin Stone is an artist; his girlfriend Nikki has left him. She did so partly because of his lack of ambition, because he was content to just get by with his talent—but there are always multiple reasons for breakups—but Stone has decided his best friend is the boilermaker. (I had my first boilermakers in San Francisco, which residents call The City; never "Frisco.") One night, completely drunk, Edwin rescues a vagrant sphinx. Part woman, part lion, all riddle. If you remember what happens to those who can't answer The Riddle of the Sphinx, you might guess this story's end. (Or not.) Nicely written! http://www.amazingstoriesmag.com/2017/10/review-fsf-sept-oct-2017/
From sfrevu:
"Riddle" by Lisa Mason -+- Edwin Stone is a down-down-on-his-luck artist whose girlfriend has left him. Drunk, he takes home a very different woman, a sphinx, part cat, part woman. She asks him riddles, he answers, they have passionate sex. But she does something else, too. Unsettling little horror tale. http://www.sfrevu.com/php/Review-id.php?id=17551
From Tangent Online
"Riddle" by Lisa Mason
Edwin is an artist who has broken up with a woman and is trying to hook up with a waitress but fails. Then he meets a strange something in the alley on his way home which turns out to be a sphinx. Lots of riddles and weird sex and horrific things follow.
Some may see this as a tale of one screwed-up clueless nutcase. Others may see it as a defense of women who want to "fix up" their projects of boyfriends. Some may see this as a really powerful embedding of ideas in imagination. . . . [P]oints for a memorable sphinx and a vividly nightmarish quality. http://www.tangentonline.com/print–bi-monthly-reviewsmenu-260/221-fantasy-a-science-fiction/3569-fantasy-a-science-fiction-septemberoctober-2017
So there you have it, my friends. I just received my two contributor's copies of the January-February 2018 issue of F&SF in which I've got another modern dark fantasy, "Aurelia." What a way to start the New Year!
Tags 68th Anniversary Issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, C.C. Finlay, dark urban fantasy, Gordon Van Gelder, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction Nov-Dec 2015, Magazine story, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, September-October 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction
Categories 2017, 68th Anniversary Issue of Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Authors, dark urban fantasy, Gordon Van Gelder, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine Story, Magazines, Published Story, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Uncategorized
Two More "Riddle" Reviews and Then We're Off to the Next Issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction Lisa Mason #SFWApro #magazinestory #darkfantasy #horror #F&SF @fandsf @SFWAauthors
I've got two more recent reviews of my story, "Riddle," which was published in the September-October 2017 68th Anniversary issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. And then we're off to the next issue!
First, Rich Horton's column in Locus Magazine:
Here are the rest I've been able to find:
So there you have it, my friends! I'm sure F&SF will be happy to sell you the issue even though it is off the newsstand. In the meantime, I've got another story, "Aurelia," coming out in the January-February 2018 issue!
From the author of Summer Of Love, A Time Travel (a Philip K. Dick Award Finalist and San Francisco Chronicle Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW BACK IN PRINT at https://www.createspace.com/7257603 or on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Love-Travel-Lisa-Mason/dp/1548106119/
The Gilded Age, A Time Travel (a New York Times Notable Book and New York Public Library Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW BACK IN PRINT at https://www.createspace.com/7511748 or on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Gilded-Age-Time-Travel/dp/1975853172/
One Day in the Life of Alexa. On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW IN PRINT on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/One-Life-Alexa-Lisa-Mason/dp/1546783091 or direct from the Printer: https://www.createspace.com/7181096
The Garden of Abracadabra ("Fun and enjoyable urban fantasy . . . I want to read more!) On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW IN PRINT! ORDER at https://www.createspace.com/title/7675783 and on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1978148291/
Strange Ladies: 7 Stories ("A must-read collection—The San Francisco Review of Books). On Nook, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. SOON IN PRINT!
Tags 68th Anniversary Issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, dark urban fantasy, Erotic Horror, fantasy, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author on Facebook, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine stories, Magazine story, Published Stories, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, September-October 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction
Categories 2017, 68th Anniversary Issue of Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Authors, dark urban fantasy, Erotic Horror, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine Story, Published Stories, Published Story, Riddle, Riddle by Lisa Mason, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Story Sale
Interview with F&SF Regarding "Riddle" by Lisa Mason in the September-October 2017 issue #SFWApro
Here is my interview with The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction regarding the story, "Riddle," that appears in the September-October 2017 68th Anniversary issue. You may also view this online on the F&SF blog at https://www.sfsite.com/fsf/blog/2017/10/10/interview-lisa-mason-on-riddle/
Tell us a bit about "Riddle."
As a writer and a reader, I'm much more interested in inner space than outer space. In stories about people living on society's fringe than in starship captains or kings. In tales exploring consciousness, gender, and identity than in tales of derring-do, fisticuffs, and gun battles. (Though there are some fisticuffs in "Riddle.")
I prefer tight, bold prose and try to achieve that effect in "Riddle."
What was the inspiration for this story, or what prompted you to write it?
I have no idea—for once. This is one of the darkest stories I've ever written. I will say I wanted to set a supernatural story in my fascinating old neighborhood of North Beach in San Francisco.
"Riddle" is what bubbled out of my subconscious mind.
Was "Riddle" personal to you in any way? If so, how?
Oh, yes! I lived for some years in North Beach with my husband, Tom Robinson. Tom has degrees from the San Francisco Art Institute, the Academy of Art University, and the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts. He's a working artist, jeweler, and sculptor and at the time, he'd gotten the lease on a dream art studio.
The place was an entire flat above a belly dancing club in a Stick-Eastlake Victorian building on Broadway between Montgomery Street and Columbus Avenue. Twenty-foot ceilings, an entire wall of exposed brick, another of floor-to-ceiling built-in bookshelves.
Half a block west on Broadway is Enrico's with its broad patio where, at three in the morning, we would see U2, Diana Ross, and Bill Cosby (yes, he was a foul-mouthed jerk even then). Two blocks down to Columbus and half a block up to the intersection of Grant Avenue and Vallejo Street is the Caffé Trieste, a coffeehouse situated at that location since 1956. The Beat poets congregated there—Philip Lamantia, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Bob Kaufman, Allen Ginsberg, and William Burroughs. Burroughs published science fiction in F&SF! Or at least his novel, Nova Express, was reviewed in F&SF in the 1960s.
I took Bruce Sterling to the Trieste when he was in town for the premier issue of Wired Magazine. Bruce was on the cover and a number of people were reading Wired when we walked in. Surreal!
[I neglected the add that Francis Ford Coppola wrote the screenplay for "The Godfather" on a portable typewriter at a back table in the Trieste. I myself never saw him there, so that may be an urban legend, but husband Tom swears it is true.]
Around the corner was the Roma Caffé. I took Robert Silverberg there for pizza and Ellen Datlow for omelets on the back patio.
When you head two blocks down on Columbus Avenue, you'll find Vesuvio, another gathering place for nearly sixty years. My favorite spot is the John Wilkes Booth on the mezzanine.
So North Beach is a very cool neighborhood. Coolness isn't enough to drive a story, though. I needed a high concept. A supernatural high concept. I found that in "Riddle."
Can you tell us about any of the research you may have done for this story?
Once I had my supernatural hook, I researched (plot spoiler alert!) sphinxes.
The classic legend tells of the sphinx in the desert who waylays travelers and poses a riddle. If a traveler can't produce the answer, she kills and devours them.
Then Ulysses on his travels encountered the sphinx. She asked, "What walks on four legs at sunrise, two legs at noon, and three legs at sunset? When he correctly answered, "Man. As a baby he crawls on hands and knees. As an adult he walks on his own two legs. And as elderly, he walks with a cane." Infuriated, the sphinx turned to stone and that's what we see before the Great Pyramid in Egypt.
Greek and ancient Egyptian iconography portray the sphinx as a male animal—a man's head and chest atop a lion's body like the Great Sphinx at Giza. French sphinxes from the Louis the Fourteenth era, however, depict sphinxes as voluptuously female. (Leave it to the French!)
I knew I wanted my sphinx to be voluptuously, wickedly female.
What would you want a reader to take away from "Riddle?"
That love is complicated. Human consciousness is complicated. And life…you can't be too sure about life. Fiction is meant to provide structure for our chaotic reality. I strove to make that point in "Anything For You," published in the September-October 2016 F&SF. But sometimes fiction needs to point out the chaos.
I deliberately left an ambiguity at the story's end, which I hope readers will ponder. If any reader wants to discuss this with me, I've got a Facebook Author Page and I'm on Goodreads. Come visit and we'll talk!
I've just published a short novel, One Day in the Life of Alexa, with my ebook publisher, Bast Books, for the purpose of placing it in an international fiction competition with a 20,000 pound prize. So now the title is available as a brand-new beautiful trade paperback and as an ebook worldwide on Kindle, Barnes and Noble, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. The first review, on Goodreads, says, "Incorporates lively prose, past/present time jumps, and the consequences of longevity technology…An absorbing read with an appealing narrator and subtly powerful emotional rhythms." Another five star review on Amazon just got posted
Also, I've just re-released in print Summer of Love, a Philip K. Dick Award Finalist, and The Gilded Age (originally titled The Golden Nineties), a New York Times Notable Book. This is an Author's Preferred Edition set, with Tom Robinson's beautiful covers. Both are feminist historical novels as well as extrapolations into the far future when women's issues—and humanity's issues—have taken a different turn. Those two books are as timely as ever and I'm very glad to republish them in print and as ebooks worldwide on all the retailers.
[IN PRINT UPDATE: My urban fantasy, The Garden of Abracadabra, has just been released in Print. That book is also an ebook on all the retailers worldwide.]
More of my backlist books will be forthcoming in print in the next several months. And another dark modern fantasy, "Aurelia," is forthcoming in F&SF in 2018.
I've got an SF novel in the works and, always, more stories!
For more news about upcoming projects, print books, ebooks, stories, interviews, blogs, cute cat pictures, Tom's bespoke art and jewelry, and more, please visit me at www.lisamason.com.
From the author of Summer Of Love, A Time Travel (a Philip K. Dick Award Finalist and San Francisco Chronicle Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. BACK IN PRINT at https://www.createspace.com/7257603 or on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Love-Travel-Lisa-Mason/dp/1548106119/
The Gilded Age, A Time Travel (a New York Times Notable Book and New York Public Library Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. BACK IN PRINT at https://www.createspace.com/7511748 or on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Gilded-Age-Time-Travel/dp/1975853172/
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Interview regarding my story "Riddle" in the September-October 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction is Live! Plus Reviews Lisa Mason #SFWApro
The interview regarding my story "Riddle" in the September-October 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction is Live! Click here and check it out! https://www.sfsite.com/fsf/blog/2017/10/10/interview-lisa-mason-on-riddle/
I'll run the whole interview here and on my website, www.lisamason.com, in a week or so.
Meanwhile, here are some comments from the critics:
http://www.amazingstoriesmag.com/2017/10/review-fsf-sept-oct-2017/
"Lisa Mason's "Riddle" is set in a city we both love, San Francisco. (If you have been paying attention, you'll remember that her book Summer of Love has a special resonance for me, because I spent that particular Summer in the Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco.) This story takes place in North Beach, where in the '60s, Carol Doda (a 44DD, thanks to implants!) danced topless at the Condor Club. (If you remember the movie Dirty Harry, North Beach is near where the church was.) Edwin Stone is an artist; his girlfriend Nikki has left him. She did so partly because of his lack of ambition, because he was content to just get by with his talent—but there are always multiple reasons for breakups—but Stone has decided his best friend is the boilermaker. (I had my first boilermakers in San Francisco, which residents call The City; never "Frisco.") One night, completely drunk, Edwin rescues a vagrant sphinx. Part woman, part lion, all riddle. If you remember what happens to those who can't answer The Riddle of the Sphinx, you might guess this story's end. (Or not.) Nicely written!"
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36123438-the-magazine-of-fantasy-science-fiction-september-october-2017
In all honestly, most of these had intriguing concepts and all of them were very well-written, but there were only a few that I would actually say I enjoyed. Just because of my personal tastes. Those being Lisa Mason's "Riddle" and Michael Swanwick's "Starlight Express".
http://www.sfrevu.com/php/Review-id.php?id=17551
""Riddle" by Lisa Mason -+- Edwin Stone is a down-down-on-his-luck artist whose girlfriend has left him. Drunk, he takes home a very different woman, a sphinx, part cat, part woman. She asks him riddles, he answers, they have passionate sex. But she does something else, too. Unsettling little horror tale."
http://www.tangentonline.com/print–bi-monthly-reviewsmenu-260/221-fantasy-a-science-fiction/3569-fantasy-a-science-fiction-septemberoctober-2017
Some may see this as a tale of one screwed-up clueless nutcase. Others may see it as a defense of women who want to "fix up" their projects of boyfriends. Some may see this as a really powerful embedding of ideas in imagination. Others may see it as massive overkill (literally)….Points for a memorable sphinx and a vividly nightmarish quality."
So there you have it, my friends. The issue will be on the newsstands for only two more weeks, so snap up your subscription now at The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction.
From the author of One Day in the Life of Alexa at US Kindle, UK Kindle, Canada Kindle, Australia Kindle, France Kindle, Germany Kindle, Italy Kindle, Netherlands Kindle, Spain Kindle, Brazil Kindle, Mexico Kindle, India Kindle, and Japan Kindle. In Print at https://www.amazon.com/One-Life-Alexa-Lisa-Mason/dp/1546783091/
Summer Of Love (a Philip K. Dick Award Finalist and San Francisco Chronicle Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Smashwords, Apple, and Kobo. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. In Print at https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Love-Travel-Lisa-Mason/dp/1548106119/
The Gilded Age (a New York Times Notable Book and New York Public Library Recommended Book). On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. In Print at https://www.createspace.com/7511748.
The Garden of Abracadabra ("Fun and enjoyable urban fantasy . . . I want to read more!) On BarnesandNoble, US Kindle, Canada Kindle, UK Kindle, Apple, Kobo, and Smashwords. On Kindle in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Japan, India, Mexico, and Netherlands. NOW IN PRINT at https://www.createspace.com/title/7675783
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Categories 2017, Authors, Interviews with Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Published Stories, Riddle, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Sept-Oct 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Story Sale
Sept-Oct 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction 68th Anniversary Issue Arrives Today!@fandsf Lisa Mason #SFWApro #Riddle #darkurbanfantasy #SanFranciscostory
September 1, 2017 //
Editor C.c. Finlay hits it out of the park with this, the 68th Anniversary issue of The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. Two Grand Masters, multiple award-winning and award-nominated authors, and striking new voices. A sexy, heady, and thought-provoking mix of alternate realities, empire-conquering, universe-traveling, and edgy consciousness. You can buy this issue and/or order a full subscription at The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction.
In 2015, I published two well-received stories in F&SF, "Teardrop" in the May-June 2015 issue and "Tomorrow is a Lovely Day" in the November-December 2015 issue. These were both chosen by Gordon Van Gelder, the Hugo Award-winning American science fiction editor. "Anything For You" was published in the September-October 2016 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. That story was chosen by presiding editor C.C. Finlay, as was "Riddle." Another dark modern fantasy, "Aurelia," will appear in early 2018.
I've sold previously to F&SF when yet another editor was helming the magazine. One story, "Destination," appears in my five-star-rated collection of previously published short fiction, Strange Ladies: 7 Stories.
I'm so honored and excited to publish again in one of the most highly respected science fiction and fantasy magazines continuously in publication since 1949.
Please note: Advertisers are posting ads on my blogsite without my knowledge, permission, or endorsement. Please ignore them.
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Categories 2017, 68th Anniversary Issue of Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Authors, Gordon Van Gelder, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Literary science fiction, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Riddle, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction
Contents of Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction September-October 2017 Lisa Mason #SFWApro #fantasy #sciencefiction #magazine #stories
THE MAGAZINE OF
September/October • 68th Year of Publication
NOVELETS
LEASH ON A MAN -31- Robert Reed
THE HERMIT OF HOUSTON -105- Samuel R. Delany
CHILDREN OF XANADU -198- Juan Paulo Rafols
EVIL OPPOSITE -8- Naomi Kritzer
WE ARE BORN -20- Dare Segun Falowo
TASTING NOTES ON THE VARIETALS OF THE SOUTHERN COAST -64- Gwendolyn Clare
THE CARE OF HOUSE PLANTS -69- Jeremy Minton
ON HIGHWAY 18 -134- Rebecca Campbell
HOLLYWOOD SQUID -145- Oliver Buckram
STILL TOMORROW'S GOING TO BE ANOTHER WORKING DAY -161- Amy Griswold
BODYTHOUGHTS -164- Rahul Kanakia
RIDDLE -183- Lisa Mason
THE TWO CHOICE FOXTROT OF CHAPHAM COUNTY -241- Tina Connolly
STARLIGHT EXPRESS -246- Michael Swanwick
BOOKS TO LOOK FOR -90- Charles de Lint
BOOKS -99- James Sallis
SCIENCE: VANISHING ACT -173- Pat Murphy and Paul Doherty
FILMS: ON FINDING HER INNER KAIJU-178- Kathi Maio
COMING ATTRACTIONS -256-
CURIOSITIES -258- Robert Eldridge
Cartoons: Danny Shanahan (89), Nick Downes (160), Arthur Masear (197), S. Harris (245).
COVER BY MAURIZIO MANZIERI FOR "STARLIGHT EXPRESS"
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Categories 2017, 68th Anniversary Issue of Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Authors, Erotic Horror, Lisa Mason, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author, Lisa Mason Fantasy and Science Fiction Author On Facebook, Lisa Mason Official Website, Lisa Mason on Facebook, Lisa Mason Romantic Suspense Author, Lisa Mason Screenwriter, Lisa Mason Urban Fantasy Author, Literary science fiction, Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Magazine Story, Magazines, Riddle, Riddle in The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Sept-Oct 2017 Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction, Short Stories, Short Story, Stories, Story Sale


Puppies, pranks and ball pits dominated digital - and, according to Tubular and What's Trending, brands are winning over viewers with clever content.
What on earth do toddlers, animals and ball pits have in common?
Besides a recipe for serious fun (and outright mayhem), these are some of the ingredients in the year's most viral videos, according to Tubular Labs, which, together with What's Trending, has released the top online videos, trends and stars of 2015.
In keeping with the theme, the rankings were presented via a digital video hosted by What's Trending's Shira Lazar and YouTuber Bart Baker, and, for the first-time ever, include hits from YouTube and across streaming platforms, including Vine, Facebook and Snapchat.
Viner King Bach, with more than 14 million followers, was named the Viner of the year, while Lele Pons was crowned the most viewed Viner of 2015 (with more than 3.1 million views).
On Instagram, singer Taylor Swift was crowned the top celebrity (5.7 million followers on the platform) and National Geographic was the top brand (37.8 million followers).
The infamous blue and black dress was deemed the viral trend of the year, with 73 million views on the original Tumblr post and 10 million mentions in one week on Twitter.
Allison Stern, co-founder of Tubular Labs, told StreamDaily the rankings were based not only on view counts across platforms, but also on other forms of engagement such as shares, re-posts, likes and comments — all increasingly important metrics in measuring online success.
The reason for such a wide array of credentials lies in the growing variety of platforms and how users interact with them.
It's also a sign of the rising popularity of streaming platforms beyond YouTube.
When Tubular Labs was founded three years ago, Stern said most of the internet's video views took place on the Google-owned platform. But that's changed.
"People are harnessing different platforms for different uses. With Facebook, it's got broad reach. With Vine, it's more mobile, you can watch a lot of videos at once," said Stern.
That said, Stern said YouTube is not going away any time soon.
Much like the recent YouTube Rewind montage, the Tubular list found a growing number of corporate videos and branded entertainment among the year's viral hits — such as Buzzfeed's "Puppyhood" video, 2015's most-viewed comedy video with 8.5 million views on Youtube.
Prankster Roman Atwood's crazy ball pit prank (viewed 58 million times on YouTube) was also sponsored, in this case by Nissan.
Stern said it's a sign that brands are learning how to grab the attention of online users, without disruptive or pre-roll advertising (techniques deemed unappealing to millennials and Gen Z viewers).
According to Stern, there is still an appetite online for less-polished and more personal home videos — you're just more likely to see them on Facebook, than YouTube.
"YouTube is more professional and highly produced, but those smaller videos still have a place," she said.