I recently had a YouTube follower ask me to play Witcher 3. That game was already on my Wish List. So, once I finished the Tomb Raider series, I thought I’d give the Witcher a go.
I wanted to start from the very beginning with Witcher 1, but had nothing but issues with the game. I never even got past the first chapter. I also found the game very BORING. Ugh.
So, on I went to Witcher 2, hoping the game play would be better and less issues. I’ve had a few, but nothing I couldn’t manage to get around. I feel the combat is a bit convoluted with all the Signs and different keys you need to use while you’re trying to avoid getting torn to shreds. But, I’ve stumbled through it so far.
Anyway, here are my first episodes of my gameplay. If you’re already played Witcher 2, what are your thoughts on the game? Enjoy.
The discovery of a sword confirms the Gods are once again readying for war, forcing their chosen heroine to decide between loyalty or betrayal and face daemons of her making.
The Bard
Dragonslayer Book One
by Jules Cory
Genre: Epic Fantasy Adventure, Swords and Sorcery
A thrilling fantasy novel of magic and ancient pagan beliefs.
The first volume in an epic trilogy set in a land of dragons and sorcery.
Character-led fiction which explores the bonds of friendship and how they can be broken.
The discovery of a sword that had been lost for generations confirms that the Gods are readying for war once again. The sword holds the secrets to powers thought lost forever. It heralds the return of a Dragonslayer, capable of protecting humankind from the wrath of the ancient deities. But there is a problem. The sword-bearer is a seven year old girl.
Tallen learns quickly how to negotiate the politics of the royal court as she tries to find a place for herself in the capital city. She discovers a talent for being invisible in crowded places. Infiltrating restricted areas. And stealing precious items. But when her skills are commandeered by the King, she finds herself in a world of magick where her latent talents are being fought over. Unaware of her magickal ancestry, she is unprepared for the secret plots to control her and her powers. Schemes, by both friend and foe, that send her into danger.
The discovery of the Empathy Crystal forces Tallen to confront her ancient blood-line and the powers lying within her. She finds herself caught in the middle as the fault-line between the old pantheon of Gods and the new monotheistic religion cracks open. The war between neighbouring kingdoms covers the underlying battle for the power locked within the land they are fighting over. And the souls of the people living there.
After leaving the royal court, Tallen finds herself drawn back to the politics of a kingdom increasingly beset by war. The return of her father’s sword comes at the price of reclaiming her heritage as a Dragonslayer, while the stakes for both her personal and her prince’s freedom are becoming increasing costly.
Sent on a covert mission from her king, Tallen travels to obtain information regarding the stolen Empathy Crystal. However, Tallen soon discovers that there are other plans for her that involve her bloodline and her claim to a potentially lethal weapon. The journey becomes increasingly dangerous as others scheme to control the destructive potential of her Dragonslayer ancestry, resulting in battles with pirates and northern raiders. Her personal enemy, Villermir, is also never far from causing trouble as he learns to control the Empathy Crystal, harnessing its devastating force to crush her.
While the monotheistic patriarchy of Baila extends its tendrils into the souls of new believers, daemons and the old Gods start to take a more active role in the lives of men. Tallen finds wonders and miracles hidden in her Empathy bloodline, and a strength and resilience in her Dragonslayer blood. But dark shadows are now gathering that will require further exploration of her magical inheritance.
Faulknar is losing the war against Lindvane, with Gallowgla and Hilman joining the fight against the kingdom. Villermir has gained mastery of the Empathy Crystal and is using it to corrupt and despoil the land. Monsters that the Dragonslayer and her dragon were created to destroy have returned to rampage across the Three Kingdoms.
Having been exiled from Faulknar as a traitor, Tallen tries to hide from her responsibilities and recover from the betrayal of those she trusted. The events within the Three Kingdoms, however, will force her to return to those she rejected and the kingdom she turned her back on. As her powers grow, dark forces swirl around her to claim those powers for themselves with enemies from her past, as well as her Goddess, seeking to use her to realise their own ambitions.
Tallen must learn to trust those who would help her and embrace her powers, knowing her greatest challenge may come from the darkness that lies within herself.
The Druid brings Tallen’s story to a violent conclusion, forcing her to face her fears as she fights to protect those she loves.
As a veterinary nurse, Jules has often eased the stresses of her canine and feline patients with stories of myth and magic, wizards and dragons. She had published chapters in academic textbooks and professional journals, but has traded the scientific formula and Harvard referencing for the creative freedom of writing fantasy novels.
The Dragonslayer series follows Tallen as she discovers what it means to be a Dragonslayer, pawn of her king and the Gods, having to navigate between friendship and betrayal, power and corruption, life and death.
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Each snake is approx.: 1) Height – 2″ Length – 3.4″ Width – 2″ Weight – 8.6 oz. 2) Height – 2″ Length – 3.4″ Width – 2″ Weight – 6.8 oz.
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This carving is approx.: Height – 6″ Length – 4″ Width – 1.4″ Weight – 1 lb.
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As shown in the pictures and video, this sphere has natural crackle lines and comes with a holder.
The orb is approx.: 79mm / 3.1″ and weighs 1 lb. 6 oz.
Hunted for their blood. Fighting for their future.
River
He’s the last of his kind, a winged warrior hidden in the mountains. River Shaw has lost everything: his sanctuary, the only shield from a world that fears and hunts him. When Delene, another of his kind, crash-lands into his life, wounded and on the run, his solitude is shattered.
Delene
She’s a fugitive with a secret, escaping the clutches of dark forces that took everything from her. Delene Fairborne’s flight to freedom leads her to River and the spark of a bond neither can deny.
In a landscape scarred by betrayal and danger, River and Delene must navigate their growing feelings and the sinister scientist who will stop at nothing to harness their power. Shadowed Skies is where love takes wing, hope soars, and destiny entwines. Dive into a world where every heartbeat is a rebellion, every glance a promise, and every flight a taste of freedom.
Haley Cavanagh is a military veteran, wife, and mother. She was awarded the League of Utah Writers 2020 Silver Quill Award for Retaliation, the second novel in her Oceanstone Initiative series. Haley is an alumna of Columbia College, a musical theater nut, and she loves to dive into any book that crosses her path. Haley resides with her family in the United States and enjoys spending time with her husband and children when she’s not writing. She loves to hear from her readers and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.
Introducing our Unique Honey Calcite Skull Tower, a stunning addition to your crystal collection! This exquisite piece is crafted from luxurious Honeycomb Calcite, showcasing intricate patterns and vibrant golden hues. Standing tall like a totem pole carving, each skull tower is not only a striking decorative piece but also a powerful symbol of clarity and positivity. Whether displayed on your altar, in a healing space, or as a conversation starter in your home, this Honey Calcite Skull Tower radiates energy and beauty. Perfect for collectors and those seeking to enhance their spiritual journey, don’t miss the chance to own this one-of-a-kind masterpiece!
It’s approx. 8″ tall, almost 3″ wide, and weighs 1 lb. 14.3 oz.
***** Honey Calcite – Stone of Confidence. It help us acknowledge our own personal power and recognize how to use it wisely. This crystal amplifies developing leadership skills.
Introducing our stunning 12″ Unique Vibrant Afghanistan Jade Free Form Statement Piece – a true conversation starter for any space! Handcrafted from exquisite Afghanistan jade, this one-of-a-kind piece showcases a beautiful array of vibrant colors and captivating patterns, making it a perfect addition to your home decor or office. Measuring 12 inches in height, its free-form design allows for artistic versatility, enabling it to fit seamlessly into any aesthetic, whether modern, bohemian, or eclectic. Elevate your surroundings with this striking statement piece that embodies natural beauty. Perfect for gifting or treating yourself, this vibrant jade sculpture will undoubtedly add a touch of elegance and charm to your collection!
This amazing jade free form comes with a custom designed stand, and, with stand, is 12″ tall. Length, without stand: 4.4″ Width, without stand: 2″ Weight – 7 lbs. 8.7 oz.
Tales of adventure, friendship, self-confidence and teamwork for all ages.
Sharky and the Jewel
The Deliverers Book 1
by Gregory S. Slomba
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Adventure
WINNER of the Golden Wizard Children’s Book Award 2024! NOMINATED for The Book of the Year Award 2024 in the Ages 8+ Category.
A world is in trouble, who can save it?
Certainly not Eric Scott, a 12 year old boy coming to grips with his own personal tragedy. But that’s exactly what Stig, an owl from another world, asks him to do. Together, they are sent to deliver Calendria, a small fishing village, from Sharky, an immortal pirate captain that has enslaved them. But defeating Sharky and his band of bloodthirsty pirates will be no easy task.
When they arrive, Eric and Stig meet Kate Endria, who is convinced that they are the Deliverers—heroes of an ancient prophecy who are destined to defeat Sharky and his crew. Eric devises a plan that he hopes will work. Eric’s confidence rises when they rescue Hallo Tosis, an outcast dwarf who gives them the key to a powerful weapon. But it’s only after things start to go horribly wrong that Eric and Stig discover the true object of their mission.
THE GOLDEN WIZARD BOOK PRIZE REVIEW 2024:
This book is truly a masterpiece, showcasing the author’s incredible talent on every single page. Slomba’s writing style…blurs the boundaries between fiction and reality, immersing readers completely in the story.
The protagonist, Eric, is exceptionally well-crafted. As the plot unfolds, we witness his remarkable journey of self-discovery, gradually uncovering his inner strength and determination. This evolution of the character adds depth and relatability to the narrative, allowing readers to form a personal connection…and reminding us of our own untapped potential.
What else sets this astounding literary piece apart is its ability to resonate with a wide range of readers. It surpasses age boundaries, entrancing not only younger readers but also adults who will find themselves completely absorbed in its pages. The allure of this book is undeniable, and personally, I found it to be an absolute delight to read. I am eagerly looking forward to the next installment in the series, excited to continue the journey.
“The Deliverers: Order of the Crystal Lion proved to be even better than the first book in the series (which I loved) and left me wanting the next book right away! The action was non-stop and the creative elements made the story come alive. The story was full of surprises and is an adventure you don’t want to miss!”~Stephanie Robinson, co-author of The Secret DMS Files of Fairday Morrow
“The writing in this book is so descriptive…Every page is a fabulous adventure filled with action. Just when you think the conflict is over and you can finally breathe a sigh of relief – wham! – a new unexpected twist appears.”~Karen Pokras Toz, author of the award-winning Nate Rocks series.
Who will fight–for the Order, for freedom? For centuries, the Vynistri have been splicing lion DNA to the genes of their servants, the Chazum, using a device called the Machine. Now an army of Chazum and sympathetic Vynistri are waging a bloody civil war to overthrow the Vynistri’s evil ruler, Chancellor Trelango. In their latest Assignment, the Deliverers–Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria and Hallo Tosis the dwarf–are charged with putting an end to the fighting and restoring balance to the world. Aided by a secret society called the Order of the Crystal Lion, Eric and the rest of the Deliverers must overcome tragedy and loss to fight for freedom and equality. Spurring them on is the Order’s belief that the long awaited Crystal Lion has arrived to deliver the world. Is it true, or will Trelango destroy them all?
“From the mouth thou shalt hear
The wisdom of far off lands.
The way to truth is clear
Head, then heart, then hands.
Lastly, tail will point the way
To the world’s end.
Then gold shall have its say
And foretell the doom of men.”
With his dying breath, so spoke the last Dragon’s Voice. Now, with no successor to impart the wisdom of the mythical Golden Dragon of Ang and children between the ages of 12 and 15 mysteriously disappearing, the Dragon Islands have been turned upside down. It is up to the Deliverers—Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria and Hallo Tosis the dwarf—to unravel the clues they hope will lead to the missing children and the new Dragon’s Voice. Meanwhile, the Fang, leader of the renegade Denchi Assassins, has harnessed the unearthly powers of the sparkling mist and is attempting to tip the balance of power in the Islands, and perhaps shred the very fabric of the universe itself. Will the new Dragon’s Voice be revealed, or has the Golden Dragon of Ang abandoned the Islands to the Fang and the sparkling mist?
That’s what Eric Scott always thought. But that was back before he learned about the Hallway of Worlds and the sparkling mist. Now, after three Assignments to save other worlds, he’s not so sure. When the Gatekeeper tells him someone might be using the mist—matter from failed worlds—to change the past on Eric’s world, possibility becomes probability.
In their fourth and final Assignment, the Deliverers—Eric Scott, Stig the owl, Kate Endria, and Hallo Tosis the dwarf—face a challenge like no other. They must prevent the worlds they have helped on their previous Assignments from being wiped out. They are sent back in time to the American Revolution to stop an unknown foe from using the sparkling mist to change history. Worlds, the Hallway and the universe as we know it, hang in the balance. Will the Deliverers be able to contain the sparkling mist once and for all, or will everything they have achieved so far be annihilated?
Gregory S. Slomba is an instructional designer, former editor, and the author of the award-winning Deliverers Series. He studied English at the University of Dayton, then worked as a banker for 20 years. He also spent four years as an editor and writer for a national trade magazine, giving him an opportunity to sharpen his writing and editing skills. Along the way, he was able to visit some fun places such as Bermuda, Spain, China, and over 60% of the U.S. states. He currently designs, writes, and delivers training courses for bankers.
Reading fantasy and science fiction has always sparked his imagination. Inspiring the imaginations of young readers through his writing is what drives him.
Greg lives in Connecticut with his wife, Stephanie and his two grown children, a golden retriever, and four cats.
Discover the stunning allure of our Beautiful Natural 9″ Petrified Wood Slab with Holder, a unique piece that captures the essence of nature’s artistry. This petrified wood slab is meticulously polished to showcase the enchanting patterns and rich colors that have developed over millions of years. Perfect as a decorative accent for your home or as a thoughtful gift for nature lovers, this slab comes with a stylish holder for easy display. Use it as a captivating centerpiece, a functional coaster, or a striking addition to your collection. Embrace the beauty of the earth with this one-of-a-kind treasure that brings warmth and elegance to any space!
This slab is approx.: Length – 9″ Height – 5″ Width – 1/2″ Weight – 2 lbs. 6.6 oz.
