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Finding Beauty in the Chaos: My Rollercoaster Start to 2024

Posted on by Posted in Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Holidays, New blog post, New Year, Purchase Books, Sanela Ramic Jurich

It’s time to make old mistakes in different ways. Hurray! Happy New Year!

Well, well, well, 2024, you playful little rascal, you’re not exactly off to a flying start for me.

Picture this: New Year’s Day, 2024. I wake up feeling a bit wonky. Sore throat, chills, fever – the whole shebang. Is it the flu? Covid? Just a run-of-the-mill cold? I’m playing medical detective with my own symptoms. Fast forward to the third day of this saga, and I’m blessed with waking up to my left eye looking like it tried to arm-wrestle a bee and lost. Swollen shut and crusty – the glamorous life, I tell you.

Off to the doctor I go, who, after a dramatic drumroll, declares it’s strep throat causing the pink eye extravaganza. Absolutely fabulous. A week of antibiotics later, the fever is gone, but I’m still clinging onto “under the weather” like it’s a security blanket.

But hey, let’s not let that cramp our style. Writing took a backseat, but fear not, my literary endeavors shall rise like a phoenix from the ashes!

And then today happened. I wake up to a winter wonderland – 7 inches of snow painting my world in frozen magic. Picture me, sipping coffee by the patio door, witnessing the snowfall turn my backyard into a Narnia-level masterpiece. It’s the kind of serene and wonderful that makes you forget strep throat ever existed.

 

© Sanela Ramic Jurich

 

So here’s to kicking 2024 where it hurts and embracing the unexpected beauty it throws our way. Bring it on, 2024 – I’m ready for the rollercoaster! 🎢✨

May this year be a kaleidoscope of health, prosperity, serenity, love, laughter, and kindness. 

~Sanela

Short excerpt from Between the Worlds: Sarah describes a nightmare caused by memories

 

Between the Worlds

The backhanded slap sent me sprawling. The shock of pain blinded me. When I tried to roll into a protective ball, he dragged me across the marble floor by the hair.

I denied and wept. He accused. Until he got tired, leaving me to crawl away and sob in a corner.
But this time, in this dream, I crawled off into my forest, where the air was warm and the ground welcoming.
And there, where the stream gurgled over its smooth rocks, I slept.
Then awoke to the cannon-blast of thunder and the jagged rip of lightning. Awoke to terror. Confusing the blasts of thunder with the blasts of the grenades destroying my grandfather’s town. His house. My parents, my grandpa…
When I fell asleep again, I was back in my forest. Running. Instead of fighting, I was running. Too afraid to turn around and face what pursued me. Finally, I reached the lake. The vast glorious Lake Michigan and decided to plunge into the water. And the trees of my forest all tumbled in after me.
Between the Worlds is available on Amazon. Click to buy!
 

 

  

About the author

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background. Hailing from Prijedor, Bosnia, she entered the world in 1976, just as the complex tapestry of the Yugoslav war began to unfold in the early 1990s. Precociously navigating the challenges of those tumultuous times, Sanela was merely fifteen years old when the conflict erupted.

Her literary contributions, exemplified by notable works such as “Remember Me” and “Haunting from the Past,” stand as poignant testaments to her lived experiences during the war. These masterfully crafted books not only showcase her prowess as an author but also serve as powerful conduits through which she shares her personal recollections of the era.

Currently residing in the vibrant city of Chicago, Sanela Ramić Jurich has established a harmonious life alongside her two cherished sons. Her journey from the ravages of conflict to her present abode is a testament to resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. Through her words and public addresses, she continues to captivate audiences, shedding light on her remarkable narrative and the broader lessons that can be gleaned from her compelling journey.

Fueled by her passion for writing, Sanela was eager to take on a new writing endeavor. Utilizing a pseudonym presented her with the chance to engage with a fresh and diverse audience. She recently published her first contemporary/fantasy novel titled “Between the Worlds”. This captivating tale explores the themes of soulmates, profound connections, the allure of home, and the strength of emotions. 

With every stroke of her pen, Ella Rees, the alias she wears with pride, casts a spell woven from the raw fibers of emotions, entwining readers in a spellbinding dance of heart and mind.

 

AN INSPIRING TALE OF UNYIELDING STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE

Posted on by Posted in Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Purchase Books, Reviews

“I have died a thousand times over and over and now stand in my power as Moonstone Phoenix, to burn, then rise from the ashes, again and again, to be reborn as new.” ~Simonne Butler

Double-edged Sword is a survival story like no other. In 2003 Simonne Butler’s violent partner, Antoine Dixon, high on methamphetamine, cut off both her hands with a samurai sword. Her hands were reattached in a groundbreaking marathon surgery and she spent the next decade healing her mind, body and spirit.

Despite five years in an extremely physically and emotionally abusive relationship, Simonne always had an unbreakable spirit. Even when her self-confidence and sense of self-preservation was at rock bottom, she was able to source phenomenal strength that saw her survive horrendous blood loss and being left for dead for hours, holding her severed limbs in such a way that allowed revascularisation to be possible.

 

Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler StoryDouble-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story by Simonne Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story” is a poignant and riveting narrative that transcends the boundaries of survival and resilience. Simonne Butler’s journey from unspeakable tragedy to triumphant recovery is nothing short of extraordinary, and this book is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

As I delved into the pages of this gripping memoir, I found myself on an emotional rollercoaster, compelled to take breaks to absorb the intensity of Simonne’s harrowing experiences. Her story, marked by unthinkable abuse and the brutal severance of her hands, is a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk within relationships.

Simonne’s unbreakable spirit is the heartbeat of this narrative. Her ability to find strength, even in the depths of despair, is truly awe-inspiring. The raw honesty with which she shares her journey resonated with me on a profound level. It was as if I could see a reflection of myself in her—her love for life, her childlike sense of humor, and the unwavering love she bestowed upon those around her.

What sets this book apart is not only the shocking events it recounts but also the author’s remarkable ability to infuse her story with hope and resilience. Despite enduring unimaginable physical and emotional trauma, Simonne’s determination to heal her mind, body, and spirit shines through every page.

Moreover, “Double-edged Sword” sheds light on the broader issue of domestic abuse and the betrayal suffered not only at the hands of a violent partner but also from those entrusted with love and protection during Simonne’s vulnerable years. The author’s courage in sharing these painful truths is commendable, as it adds depth to the narrative and underscores the importance of empathy and understanding.

In the end, Simonne Butler emerges not just as a survivor but as a beacon of strength, resilience, and the transformative power of love. This book is an emotional rollercoaster, a wake-up call, and a celebration of the human spirit. I wholeheartedly give “Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story” a five-star rating for its profound impact and the courage it took to share such an intimate and empowering story.

 

Double-edged Sword: The Simonne Butler Story is available on Amazon

 

CLICK TO BUY!

 

THIS WEEK’S QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Posted on by Posted in Audio Books, Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Haunting from the Past, New blog post, Purchase Books, Remember Me, Sanela Ramic Jurich

Questions by Chapter Break ~book blog

 

Let's enjoy some books together!
“Writing is the most fun you can have by yourself.” – Terry Pratchett

 

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background.

Q: What is your take on book boyfriends? Do they actually exist? Or do they set the bar for “real life men” impossibly high?

A: Hmm, great question. You know, I’ve always found myself creating these idealized versions of people I like. It could be a crush, a friend, or someone whose personality I admire. I tend to daydream about them, putting them on a pedestal until they become this perfect, almost God-like figure.

Take my first book-boyfriend, Johnny. In my mind, he was absolutely perfect—looks, personality, the whole package. I wanted my readers to fall in love with him just as much as I did, to feel the pain of loss when he met his demise in the story. The real Johnny, the inspiration behind the character, didn’t survive the convoy I wrote about in “Remember Me.” So, he remains forever “that” Johnny, the one I idealized and perfected in my mind. He’ll never reveal his true, human self because he never got the chance to live into his true adulthood.

In my latest book, “Between the Worlds,” I found myself idolizing a friend who, in the end, betrayed me. It was a tough reality check, discovering how mundane he truly was. It shattered the perfect image I’d created in my mind. I wished he could have stayed the way he was in my imagination. So, halfway through writing this fantastic book, he showed me his true colors, and it was challenging to finish it the way I initially planned, with him being as amazing as I made him out to be. But, you know, that’s the beauty of fiction—it’s a fantasy. In real life, I don’t think men that perfect exist because, well, they’re only human.

Q: What do you do when a new idea jumps out at you while you’re still working on a book? Do you chase the squirrel (aka “UP syndrome”) or do you finish your current project first?

A: Oh, that’s a scenario I’m quite familiar with. My creative process is a bit unconventional, to be honest. When a new idea hits me, it’s like an image pops into my head, and it nags at me until I acknowledge it. If I start daydreaming about it, the idea tends to evolve into a full-fledged story. If I really like it and believe I can translate it from my mind to paper, I’ll sit down at the computer and start writing, describing that initial image.

Sometimes, though, it doesn’t sound as good on paper as it did in my head. In those cases, I let go of the idea. But if I find myself smiling and naturally expanding on it, if my mind keeps weaving through the narrative, then I know it’s worth pursuing. Most of the time, if a story feels book-worthy, I can seamlessly transition to it after completing my current project.

So, to answer your question, I do prioritize finishing my current project first before diving into the next one. However, I like to sprinkle little teasers throughout the writing process of my first project to keep the new idea fresh in my mind. Does that make sense? It’s a bit of a quirky process, I admit.

Q: What are some books or authors that you would recommend to our readers?

A: Oh, I could talk about books all day! One author I absolutely adore is Anne Rice. Her vampire series, especially with Lestat, is my all-time favorite. Her writing has this magical way of transporting you to different places and times. The vivid pictures she paints in a reader’s mind just make me get completely lost in her stories. I remember Merick was the first book of hers I read, and from then on, I was hooked.

Dean Koontz is another author I’ve enjoyed, especially his book “Odd Thomas”. It’s one of those books I go back to every once in a while.

Now, I have a guilty pleasure for the Twilight Series by Stephanie Meyer. And anything about witches? Count me in! “A Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness is a particular favorite, although the next book in the series didn’t quite meet my expectations. Maybe the anticipation got the best of me.

Oh, and if you’ve got time, I could go on and on with recommendations. Once I start talking about books, it’s hard to stop. I could keep you entertained for hours!

 

C.B: Well, it sounds like you have a passion for books that’s truly infectious! I appreciate your recommendations and insights. We could chat about literature for hours, but I’ll let you get back to your own writing endeavors. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and recommendations today!

 

  

About the author

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background. Hailing from Prijedor, Bosnia, she entered the world in 1976, just as the complex tapestry of the Yugoslav war began to unfold in the early 1990s. Precociously navigating the challenges of those tumultuous times, Sanela was merely fifteen years old when the conflict erupted.

Her literary contributions, exemplified by notable works such as “Remember Me” and “Haunting from the Past,” stand as poignant testaments to her lived experiences during the war. These masterfully crafted books not only showcase her prowess as an author but also serve as powerful conduits through which she shares her personal recollections of the era.

Currently residing in the vibrant city of Chicago, Sanela Ramić Jurich has established a harmonious life alongside her two cherished sons. Her journey from the ravages of conflict to her present abode is a testament to resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. Through her words and public addresses, she continues to captivate audiences, shedding light on her remarkable narrative and the broader lessons that can be gleaned from her compelling journey.

 

 
 

A NOVEMBER UPDATE

Posted on by Posted in Audio Books, Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, Cyber Savings, eBooks, Ella Rees, Haunting from the Past, Holidays, New blog post, Purchase Books, Remember Me, Sanela Ramic Jurich
BOOKS, COOKING, SANELA AT HOME, FALL FUN

 

Dear friend,

IT SNOWED TODAY! 

Like snowflakes your words fall silent. But my heart still hears your voice. 

 

As the crisp air of autumn wraps around us, I find myself clinging to these moments, desperately trying to delay the inevitable arrival of winter. The warmth of the bonfire, the laughter shared among friends, and the unexpected hilarity of Denny’s clandestine encounter with Cuban cigars all serve as a testament to the magic of this season.

In the glow of the flickering flames, with leaves gently falling around us, time seemed to slow. The bonfire party became a haven where the present moment was all that mattered. Devin’s connection with Scooby and Denny’s comical attempt at secrecy added layers to the evening, turning it into a memory etched in the amber hues of autumn.

Devin, making friends with–hungry eyes–Scooby
Scooby’s comanding (hypnotizing) us to give him all of our food

Speaking of Denny and his brief tryst with Cuban cigars, the image of him trying to hide the forbidden indulgence brought about an unexpected joy. Life, in these fleeting moments, was a comedy, and as I caught him in the act, the shared laughter became a bridge connecting us all in this transient escape from reality.

Not so sneaky…

But it wasn’t just the laughter; it was the simplicity of roasting marshmallows and savoring the gooey sweetness of s’mores. There’s something inherently delightful about skewering marshmallows on sticks and watching them toast to perfection over the flames. It’s a ritual that binds us to the essence of autumn, to the simplicity of joy found in the company of loved ones.

 

As winter looms on the horizon, I find myself wanting to preserve these moments, to bottle up the warmth and camaraderie that autumn brings. The crackling of the bonfire, the taste of toasted marshmallows, and the shared laughter under a star-studded sky—all contribute to a tapestry of memories that I want to carry with me into the colder days ahead.

This year, I took on the ambitious task of crafting an entire Thanksgiving dinner for our guests.

Continue reading →

FALL FEELS AND TURKEY MEALS: A GRATEFUL TWIST

Posted on by Posted in Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Holidays, Purchase Books, Sanela Ramic Jurich

“The turkey. The sweet potatoes. The stuffing. The pumpkin pie. Is there anything else we all can agree so vehemently about? I don’t think so.” – Nora Ephron

I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate you purchasing, reading, and reviewing my books. Thankful for You.

The weather did a swift 180 from perfect to downright chilly, making it a challenge to convince myself

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that it’s still prime leaf-peeping time in the good ol’ USA. Yet, despite the sudden cold snap, there’s a silver lining – and it’s not just the frost on the pumpkins. Drumroll, please… enter Thanksgiving, the pièce de résistance of this glorious autumnal saga!

Sure, I’m thankful for the pumpkin pies and apple delights, but let’s not forget the real MVPs – the friends and family who gather around the table to tackle those desserts with me. And topping the gratitude list? The sheer privilege of calling this country home.

As I mentally brace myself for the impending winter blues, I’m determined to squeeze every ounce of joy out of fall.

Winter may be knocking, but for now, let’s soak up the fall vibes like there’s no tomorrow – or at least until the turkey coma kicks in. 🍂🦃

So, as I bid a not-so-fond farewell to the thought of winter’s icy grip, I’m raising a pumpkin-spiced latte to autumn and all its glory. Let’s cherish these moments, from the laughter around the dinner table to the crunch of leaves beneath our boots.

Here’s to embracing the warmth of gratitude, the joy of fall, and the anticipation of a holiday season that promises not just cozy nights by the fireplace but an abundance of love and laughter.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, joy, and a whole lot of pumpkin-flavored everything! 🍂🍁🦃

~Sanela

THIS WEEK’S QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Posted on by Posted in Author Interviews, Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, Ella Rees, Haunting from the Past, Purchase Books, Remember Me, Sanela Ramic Jurich

 

“There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”

– Ernest Hemingway

 

 

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background.

Q: “How do you solve a writer’s block?”
A: I wish I had some magical and quick answer to give you, but I don’t. I only experienced writer’s block once, but it lasted for a few years. I was going through some really tough times in my married life, and I simply lost my ability to create. I was depressed and mentally absent. I couldn’t concentrate on anything except what was happening in reality. It was tough because my ability to escape into my writing had always been my savior. 

Then, unexpectedly, during a playful banter with a friend, a whimsical idea struck me. I joked, “I bet we knew each other forever. For eons. I bet we were best friends in all of our previous lives. Before we were born into this one, we decided to be born together. But because we are such opposites and always bicker, halfway to our birth, we argued. And because you’re so stubborn, you let go of my hand, and I got sucked in first. You panicked and waited a few minutes, not knowing that five minutes there meant 19 years here. That’s why there’s such a huge age difference between us, and that’s why I was born across the seas and you were born here…”

That playful moment unblocked my writer’s block. It hit me hard, and I sat down to write a short, four-page story. But I couldn’t stop there; the story kept haunting me until it grew into a whole book. That’s how my latest book, Between the Worlds, was born. This particular story is dear to my heart because it helped me find my way back to creating new and amazing worlds for myself.

So, in summary, when your writer’s block cure involves interdimensional disputes and playful paradoxes with pals… well, that’s the secret recipe to solving writer’s block!

Q: “Did you ever join a writer’s group?”
A: Never been one for writer’s groups. If I did, I’d probably be that enigmatic figure in the corner, talking to the characters in my head.

Q: “Where and when do you write?”
A: I’m a mood writer—whenever inspiration taps me on the shoulder, I’m at its mercy. My go-to spot? You’ll find me orchestrating literary masterpieces from the comfort of my couch, laptop propped up on a pillow.

Let’s take a look at the world of my new novel BETWEEN THE WORLDS.

 

 

You can read the first chapter here: Between the Worlds excerpt.

About the author

Sanela Ramić Jurich is a distinguished author and accomplished public speaker with a compelling background. Hailing from Prijedor, Bosnia, she entered the world in 1976, just as the complex tapestry of the Yugoslav war began to unfold in the early 1990s. Precociously navigating the challenges of those tumultuous times, Sanela was merely fifteen years old when the conflict erupted.

Her literary contributions, exemplified by notable works such as “Remember Me” and “Haunting from the Past,” stand as poignant testaments to her lived experiences during the war. These masterfully crafted books not only showcase her prowess as an author but also serve as powerful conduits through which she shares her personal recollections of the era.

Currently residing in the vibrant city of Chicago, Sanela Ramić Jurich has established a harmonious life alongside her two cherished sons. Her journey from the ravages of conflict to her present abode is a testament to resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. Through her words and public addresses, she continues to captivate audiences, shedding light on her remarkable narrative and the broader lessons that can be gleaned from her compelling journey.

 

Fueled by her passion for writing, Sanela Ramic Jurich, was eager to take on a new writing endeavor. Utilizing a pseudonym presented her with the chance to engage with a fresh and diverse audience. She recently published her first contemporary/fantasy novel titled “Between the Worlds”. This captivating tale explores the themes of soulmates, profound connections, the allure of home, and the strength of emotions. Going forward, Ella Rees, Sanela’s alter ego, has limitless potential to unleash her boundless imagination onto the world of romance and fantasy writing. While her writing may seem purely fictional, readers will discover that bits and pieces of Sanela’s life experiences are sprinkled throughout her stories, adding an extra layer of depth and authenticity to her work. With every stroke of her pen, Ella Rees, the alias she wears with pride, casts a spell woven from the raw fibers of emotions, entwining readers in a spellbinding dance of heart and mind.

 

 

 

🌟 Exciting Book Launch Special: “Between the Worlds” by Ella Rees – Only 99 Cents! 🌟

Posted on by Posted in Between the Worlds, Book recommendation, Books, eBooks, Ella Rees, Purchase Books

Attention all avid readers and fantasy enthusiasts!

 

CLICK TO PURCHASE

I am thrilled to announce the much-anticipated launch of “Between the Worlds,” a spellbinding novel crafted by me under the name of my alter ego, Ella Rees. Prepare to be swept away on a captivating journey through realms unknown, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur into a breathtaking tapestry of emotions.

📚 Book Synopsis 📚 “Between the Worlds” is a contemporary/fantasy masterpiece that transports you to a realm where magic intertwines with the mundane, and where soulmates are destined to collide.

Have you ever met someone for the first time and felt like you’ve known them forever? Against all odds, you know deep inside that you know them. They feel familiar and comforting. You are drawn to them, but you only just met them. How can that be? Could it be some kind of a karmic connection? Soulmates? Could it all be just a figment of your imagination, or could there be an actual rational explanation for feeling this way? Is there a scientific explanation or is it fate?

Sarah Wilson was a woman of extraordinary powers descended from a legendary figure known as Air. Joined by her two sisters in power, Sarah’s existence took an unexpected turn when her ex-husband’s violence led to her untimely demise. It was in that moment of passing that Sarah journeyed to a place she recognized as home, where memories of her true self and her soulmate, Jachin—now known as Jack Adams—resurfaced.

But the sisters in power intervened, bringing Sarah’s spirit back to life, empowering her to confront her assailant. With her rebirth as Sarah Wilson, a flood of memories from her past lives and her connection to home surged within her being.

🎉 Limited-Time Offer: Only 99 Cents! 🎉 To celebrate this momentous launch, we’re offering “Between the Worlds” at an irresistible price of just 99 cents! Yes, you read that right – for less than the cost of your morning coffee, you can embark on a journey that will transport you between realms and emotions, all within the pages of a single book. This special offer won’t last forever, so make sure to secure your digital copy today and immerse yourself in the magic that Ella Rees has conjured.

📖 How to Get Your Copy 📖 Getting your hands on this extraordinary tale is as easy as a click of a button. Head over to Amazon.com and search for “Between the Worlds” by Ella Rees. At the limited-time price of just 99 cents, it’s a deal that’s too good to pass up.

Thank you for joining me in celebrating the launch of Ella Rees’ captivating debut novel. Let the journey begin! 🌟

 

You can read the first chapter here: Between the Worlds excerpt.

 

Enjoy,

Sanela

 

COVER REVEAL

Posted on by Posted in Books, eBooks, Sanela Ramic Jurich

BETWEEN THE WORLDS – THE STORY OF US

 

 

Description

Have you ever met someone for the first time and felt like you’ve known them forever? Against all odds, you know deep inside that you know them. They feel familiar and comforting. You are drawn to them, but you only just met them. How can that be? Could it be some kind of a karmic connection? Soulmates? Could it all be just a figment of your imagination, or could there be an actual rational explanation for feeling this way? Is there a scientific explanation or is it fate?
 
 
 
SOON ON KINDLE VELLA. 
First three episodes are free. 
 
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