These images were floating in my mind while I was writing the Traveling for a Performance post. They brought about this moody sequence. It reflects the emotional state my memories evoke.
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Behind the Scenes of Fireworks: Traveling for a Performance
One of the greatest prerogatives of living in New York City is having the access to its spectacular cultural magnitude. And yet, not everything that might be important to you ends up here. And what if you really-really like some band or want to see a certain performance? When you feel you simply must go for it?
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Behind Fireworks: O, Las VegasโMy Cirque du Soleil Mecca
Towards the end of Chapter Two of Fireworks and Other Illuminations, I sent William McGrath to Las Vegas. He is there for the private-investors event inaugurating the opening of a luxurious Japanese-themed casino hotel. I imagined it on the Strip out my love for Japan and its cultureโechoing Regina's trip in Chapter One. But also, because back during the aughts Vegas was a very important destination for meโฆ Continue Reading -->
William’s Ethos: Building a Romantic Hero’s World in Fireworks and Other Illuminations
If you take your romantic fairytales seriously, you want to know what your romantic heroes stand forโbeyond the looks and the charms, the whirlwind of passion and the heat they ignite... Especially if, like William McGrath, they are not just rich playboys, butโas I define him in particularโthe ethos billionaires... Granted, William McGrath is not... Continue Reading →
From Fireworks and Other Illuminations: Netsukes
It was always Reginaโs plan during her trip to Kyoto to spend some time in the narrow wooden streets of Gion. There, she finds herself drawn to the tiniest antiques shop on Shinmonzen-dori, where she discovers a collection of netsuke that will stay with her for a lifetime... Watch Now
Excerpt from Fireworks: The Courtesan, the Artist, and the Warrior
In this scene from Fireworks and Other Illuminations, Regina finds herself in a Kyoto antique shop, captivated by an erotic netsukeโa carved ivory sculpture no larger than a thumbโof a bound geisha. As she holds it, an imagined story unfurls in her mind, merging art, desire, and violence. This is Regina's private tale - one... Continue Reading →
Behind the Scenes of Fireworks: Japan
Years before the idea of Fireworks and Other Illuminations was conceived I took my first trip to Japan... Temples, gardens, hot springs, seismic activity, geisha encounter, stolen passports, and escalator missteps - I will cherish that voyage forever. It inspired the opening of the novel... Read the real story behind the first chapter
“Fireworks and Other Illuminations” Teaser One
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