My Sundays are normally set aside for music artists to spotlight their music and while I have several waiting in the wings, I wanted to showcase my latest new story, JONAH!
Jonah was a very different story for me to write. It is fantasy, and yet very much set in reality. I got the idea for the story during a guided meditation, through which I traveled to an uninhabited deadly island and my mission was to transform it into something beautiful.
Well, Jonah doesn’t exactly do that.
However, he is forced to take a good hard look at himself. He is told that there is only one way off the godforsaken island. “You must examine yourself, face your truths and make peace with your demons,” the note read.
Here’s a little backstory. Jonah lived on the streets in a large futuristic city. He’s made his way through brute strength and ruthlessness. Everyone who knew him feared the “Wrath of Jonah.” When he’s arrested and convicted of crimes, he is given a choice of punishment – either imprisonment beneath the ground, or exile to a deserted island. He chose the island.
There are dangerous mythical creatures on the island along with thick tangled brush filled with thorns, stinging nettles and poisonous flowers. It is not an easy place to survive. Jonah tried several times unsuccessfully to swim back to the mainland. He’s doomed to spend the rest of his life in this horrible place.
There are some other characters in the story, as it unfolds, and one of them is a young boy, Titus, who says he lives on the other side of the island where everything is lush and beautiful. But when Titus tries to take Jonah there, legions of green slimy snakes block the way. It is not allowed.
The lesson in this story is that Jonah must face the darkest parts of himself and make peace with the demons within. It is the hardest thing he’s ever tried to do.
Here is the BLURB:
Fantasy meets reality when a young man is forced to choose his punishment for crimes committed. Jonah must decide between imprisonment in a concrete box beneath the earth or be exiled to a deserted, barren island. He chooses the island, but nothing can prepare him for the deadly creatures, and poisonous plants at every turn. Then there’s the maddening isolation that drives him to the brink of insanity. There is only one way off this island and it’s more difficult than anything he’s ever imagined. It’s much easier to face mortal danger than the demons within. Will he find redemption, or another unexpected offer?
I hope the story appeals to you enough that you pick it up. It carries a deep life lesson for us all, not just Jonah!
Sometimes we have to lose everything to find what we truly seek.
With all the craziness, I’m just getting around to reading this. Sounds like an interesting story, Jan. Congrats on he new release. Hope you’re doing okay during this time.
Craziness, is the word of the day, Joan. I am absolutely spinning from all of the insanity. Thanks for stopping by!
Wow! This is Amazing Jan! I Love how Your Collection is arriving! So Proud of You! Truly and Inspiration. Little did we know that day in Dallas But this is What I Was Seeing.
Love & Light! Deva
Thank you, Elaina. I know, right? I had no idea either. 🙂 I think you’d enjoy “Jonah.” I incorporated “The Four Agreements” and “Dark Side of the Light Chasers,” as Jonah had to face his demons. I loved writing it! I’m happy you stopped by! Love you!
Congratulations, Jan! Jonah sounds like a compelling read. It’s going on my list.
Thank you, Linda! I do hope you enjoy it!
Sounds interesting. I’d like to learn how well single stories do on Amazon. I understand that people today are going for shorter and shorter reads—except for those into epic fiction like George R. R. Martin fans. 🙂
Hi, John. This is not my first short story. In fact, I’ve published four others besides Jonah. I have had good success with them and it’s a great way to introduce readers to your writing style. If they like it, they may take a look at your other books. Thanks for stopping by!
Ok, have to check them out. 🙂
This book sounds awesome! I can’t wait to read it! 😊
Thank you, Yvette!!
Best of luck with it, Jan.
Thank you, Craig!
I remember parts of this story on your blog, Jan. Congratulations on the release. I just bought my copy.
Yes. I did run it as a serial on my blog some time back. The story is changed somewhat although some parts are the same. Thank you for purchasing it, Mae!
I loved this story when it was on your blog, but loved it even more the second time around as a short story. Congrats on your new release! Xo
Thank you, Denise! I appreciate your reviews!!!
🙂 Uplifting reading.
Congratulation on another wonderful sounding short story, Jan.
Thank you, Robbie!
Is this the same story that was serialized on your blog. If so it is terrific. BTW your purchase link is not working.
Hi, John. Yes, it’s the same story (with some changes) that I serialized on my blog. I fixed the purchase link. Note to self: “Always check links!”
Yeah links are like parachutes. If you check then you won’t be surprised when you hit the ground.
Btw. I clicked on the purchase link but the site is blocked.
Wow, what a great story and analogy. This sounds very intriguing with a deep and insightful message. I think it also fits the current circumstances we live in since many people have problems dealing with themselves these days but are forced to. Regarding this, I just scheduled a post for tomorrow. Again, great story idea, Jan!
Thank you SO much Erika. I appreciate your support. And, I fixed the purchase link. Yikes! I should have checked it!
Oh, great, will be over soon again 👍
Reblogged this on Campbells World.
Thank you, Patty!! I appreciate your support!