Hi friends,

(Don't miss a pic of "Freddy" below, the torso model the character in my new book is learning anatomy from so he can cast effective healing spells)

I love hearing from you and enjoy your feedback on my newsletters. Please keep writing.

In response to my self-defense tips, a reader mentioned how empathy might help turn an enemy into an ally - and I agree!

Many times, showing a bit of kindness or understanding can help defuse a volatile situation. Recognizing cues and body language can also aid in recognizing early warning signs when discussion can still be effective.

I hope I've always made it clear that deciding to use violence to defend oneself is a very personal choice, and I support wherever anyone on the spectrum someone chooses to stand.

Personally, I consider hurting someone else as the very last resort, only to be used after doing my best to recognize and avoid dangerous situations, talking my way out or just leaving an escalating confrontation.

Would you be surprised to hear that I've never used my martial art skills "in real life" to fight off an attacker?

And yet, they have kept me safe on many specific occasions. Both my knowledge, confidence and negotiating skills have enabled me to avoid and/or exit situations that could have turned dangerous.

My heart hurts to know that 1 in 6 women in America is a victim of a completed or attempted rape, and I plan to always use the bit of influence I have to teach women and girls how to protect themselves from that horrific experience.

I'm curious what you think? How can we both be safe and also try to exemplify the decent values we try to pattern our lives after?

Food for thought.

And on a more practical note, it is valuable to decide your personal comfort level with violence and fighting back before you find yourself in a dangerous situation where hesitation might make the decision for you.

Please be safe! <3

— Misty :)

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Beyond the Wall by Kate L. Mary

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In the Society, everyone is happy.

Drea Young has grown up living in the shadow of the wall. Not only does she know there’s nothing left beyond it, but she also knows that it’s there to protect the citizens of the United Society of the Reestablishment. That doesn’t stop her from feeling trapped, though.

Invasion by Jay Toney

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Four hundred and thirty thousand years ago, the first Nephilim came to Earth in search of gold. After a perilous journey, the Stargazer, the Nephilim flagship, lands on the alien world. First contact with what is thought to be an intelligent creature doesn’t go well.

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Fight for your friends, your family, your future.

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Misty's Writing Update:

So, what would you think of a magic academy class that mixed meditation with a study of anatomy? Plus, a medical torso model named Freddy? LOL

Well, if mage students want to use their elements to heal their bodies during battles, they'd better know what exactly is under their skin. No cheater healing spells in my books!

How else would I get to slip some fun medicine and anatomy into my stories?

Oh, and are you curious about the inspiration for Freddy?

He is based on the medical torso I bought to teach my kids anatomy while homeschooling. He's made of painted plastic and full of realistic organs all fitted together like a 3D puzzle under the skin and rib cage front piece.

Too bad none of my kids were medically inclined and mostly endured my lessons with grimaces and wincing.

I wonder if they'll be appalled or think it's funny that Freddy has made an appearance in one of my books. :D

What do you think?

Happy reading this week!

— Misty :)

p.s. For a web version of this newsletter and previous newsletters: https://sendfox.com/mistyzaugg/campaigns