Happy New Year. I've Hit A Wall.Hi.
I'm Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up. This is my first blog post for 2019 and so far not so good. I've hit a wall with my writing. It was bound to happen eventually as I've had a pretty good run up until now. But, I am working through it and can see the land of milk and honey on the other side. I am currently working on a slow burn thriller/horror set in Australia. It is grizzly and macabre and unsettling. Quite often, I've found myself feeling the heaviness of desolation pushing down inside my mind as I've expanded upon certain character traits. So much so that I've had to walk away from the project a few times just to find something fun to do, to remind me that there is some happiness in the world. The PS4 and Crash Bandicoot have been working overtime as a result. The wall I've come upon is research. After writing a great portion of the story I found that there were elements that didn't work for me. I needed to go back and change a great deal of the content. This is a first for me, as I usually write the first draft entirely before going back to make any changes. The upside of the whole experience is that I'm writing this story on Scrivener. Every piece of research I've done is stored inside the one box (so to speak). The story I'm writing and the notes I'm keeping, along with the research including images, is all there in one place. It has to be the best tool for organisation that I've ever come across. Before Scrivener, I was using paper notes, post-its, folders of information. This covered my desk and was quite difficult to navigate, especially when my regular day job consists of keeping notes and folders of information that piles up quite quickly. I still keep a note pad for spare of the moment scribblings. Scrivener can't follow me everywhere. If an idea hits me when I'm out and about, I need to jot it down (or use my phone to record a message to myself) before I forget. In saying that, you never forget the good ideas. They stick with you and never leave. Which brings me back to my current work in progress. It was, and still is, an idea that has stuck around in the back of my head for a very long time. I had images of the opening and closing sequences spinning around in my creative vortex for years, but didn't know how to link them. The chain I'm creating is a little complex and, thus, the research needs to be done. So, I must return to the grind stone. I wish everyone a Happy New Year and all the best for 2019. Robert E Kreig. PS: For the budding writers out there, I've started using an App called ProwritingAid for grammar and readability checking. I'll always say that nothing beats an editor, but it helps to clean up the manuscript a bit before sending on to a professional for checking. Well worth a look.
1 Comment
WRITING ON SCRIVENER FOR THE FIRST TIME. Hi.
I'm Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up. Except for today. Today, I'm writing to you about something that other writers might find useful. Recently, I purchased Scrivener 3 through the Mac App store to organise and write my books. I've read a great deal of reviews about the software, watched a lot of YouTube videos and weighed up the cost compared to other products out there as well as my "up to now" way of writing. It took a little bit to get a handle on how things operate in Scrivener, but once I set it up to how I like it, I fell in love. So, what is scrivener? Scrivener is an app that helps with organising your research, notes, character biographies, location details, chapters, everything related to writing. There is a spell/grammar check that helps, but I have found it to be a little faulty at times. It picks up on the major issues, but it also keeps telling me that "to" should be "too" in a sentence like, "He fell on his knees and pleaded to be set free." Apart from those kinds of little hiccups, Scrivener is brilliant. Everything is in one place and time is saved by having it all right there in one app. Up until I started to use Scrivener, I have multiple documents open on the computer and scraps of paper containing my scribbled notes all over my desk. Now, I can fit my extra large mug of coffee on a coaster and concentrate without the mess. It isn't just for the novelist either. Scrivener contains templates for fiction and non-fiction writers alike. The templates can even be modified to your preferred calibrations. There is so much more that Scrivener can do. I could write on and on about the features of the app, but I would like to get back to my novel writing eventually. Scrivener is Mac friendly at the moment. They are making efforts to work with Windows operating systems, but I have seen a few reviews from PC users who have found that they have had more negative experiences that those of us blessed ones who prefer the apple symbol. I am still working out the full potential power of Scrivener 3 on Mac and have discovered more and more with each use. A great tool for writers, in my opinion. I must note that I have not been paid by Scrivener for this little review. These are my thoughts and the thoughts of the voices in my head. If you want to learn more about Scrivener, this is a good place to start: www.literatureandlatte.com Another good place to get an overview of a much more experienced user of Scrivener is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AO2t33J22yY Happy reading. Happy writing. Merry Christmas. Robert E Kreig. Here Come The Brides Hi.
I'm Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up. I haven't written anything on my blog for some time because I've been researching for a new book that I've just started to pen. During this time, the next instalment of the Woodmyst Chronicles has been undergoing some minor touches. I am at a point where I'm completely happy with Book VIII, and so it is now in the hands of my publisher. Some reviewers have already given their feedback about The Brides of Woodmyst and so far, it has been positive to say the least. The Brides of Woodmyst by Robert E Kreig is an exceptional addition to the Woodmyst saga. Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite Things began so simply for Alice, but things were never easy. To see her claw her way to where she now stands is amazing, and she is not alone in such growth. This is one story where the characters, events, and plot all drive the reader forward, making it impossible to put this book down. K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite The Brides of Woodmyst is a powerful and gripping story set in a beautifully developed fantasy world. The characters are strong and well developed, with a cast that is a beautiful mix of male and female characters, with realistically varying levels of strength and skill. Regrets, tears, mistakes, victories, joy, and smiles fill this story, giving us a glimpse into the lives of all of those portrayed. The style of Kreig’s writing makes it easy to effortlessly lose oneself in the story, and the descriptions are detailed and varied enough to allow your imagination to run wild through the scenery. Sarah Westmoreland for Readers' Favorite Keep an eye out for the imminent release of The Brides of Woodmyst: The Woodmyst Chronicles Book VIII. In the meantime, happy reading. Robert E Kreig. THE WOODMYST CHRONICLES: UPDATE Hi.
My name is Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up. It is a time of mixed emotions for me as I send my tenth book of the Woodmyst Chronicles to my editor for corrections. I feel a certain relief as I've drawn the story to a conclusion, but I also feel some sadness because I've been emerged in the world surrounding Woodmyst and its inhabitants. I've enjoyed the transference of protagonist throughout the narrative. Essentially, it is the story of a particular family starting with Alan Warde, a soldier of Woodmyst who harbours a dark secret that is uncovered in The Walls of Woodmyst: The Woodmyst Chronicles Book I. We are introduced to a young boy, Tomas, who grows up between the first and second books to become leader of his people during The Sons of Woodmyst and The Heir of Woodmyst (books 2 and 3). By the time I was writing the fourth instalment, I had worked out who the true hero was. It was the youngest of Tomas' daughters, Alice. Although Alice was still a small child and didn't play a major role during The Warlords of Woodmyst (book 4), she displayed traits that made her stand out, and that I wanted to explore further. Thus, the writing of books 5 through to 10 begun. The journey that this little girl took me on was exciting and gut wrenching at times. I'm not too sure how other writers fare in such situations, but when it came to Alice, she was the driver behind the story. I thought I knew where we were gong, but she had other ideas. Even towards the end, I wasn't certain how it would conclude. I frequently paused my incessant tapping on the keyboard to ask myself whether or not Alice's bravado and folly would see her meet her fate and just how she would get out of this situation, if she did indeed. By the final book, there is so much at stake. Not only in the bigger world surrounding Woodmyst, but in Alice's immediate world of family and loved ones close to her. Knowing that there was a possible future for Alice, an extension of the narrative, teetering on a knife's edge had formed a lump in my throat as I wrote the final chapters of book ten. I honestly wasn't sure how it would end up. I believe that I have accomplished what I originally set out to do. I have written a fantasy series. I also believe that I have created something distinct from most fantasy stories. I have written a fantasy series that is action oriented. So far, books one to six are available to purchase online. Book seven (pictured) is coming. In the meantime, The Walls of Woodmyst (Book I) is available to download for free. Visit www.robertekreig.com for more information. I hope people take the opportunity and time to read and enjoy The Chronicles of Woodmyst as much as I have taken pleasure in writing the books. All the best, Robert. www.robertekreig.com HUGEOrange Publication Review Alice Warde is a young lady who has recently discovered powers she didn’t know she had. And she needs them as her home and world are being threatened by multiple enemies. The Shadow of Woodmyst is the sixth volume in The Woodmyst Chronicles. Author Robert E. Kreig has written an intriguing and absorbing a fantasy epic that is hard to put down.
“And now the colours have appeared again.” Gruloch looked to the travellers. “The Black Witch rules from Woodmyst.” Alice felt her stomach tighten. “How do you know this?” she asked. “The words on the wind speak frequently to one another,” he told her. “I listen to their tales. I listened to how a young girl with strange abilities was shunned by her own and sent into exile. I listened to how that young girl became a leader of a nation and willingly opened her homeland to others seeking refuge. I listened to how she defeated my warriors and frightened my dragons with sorcery. “I so wanted to meet this girl. I needed to see this one the shadows talked about. I must admit that I knew far more about you than I originally led you to believe, Alice.” Oh yes, there are dragons! In an unexpected event, Alice is given the gift of a baby dragon. Alice breathed a deep sigh as she looked upon her gift. The dragon inched towards her, lowering its head submissively as it chirped. She placed her hands upon its snout again and rubbed the scales above its nostrils. A soft, soothing rattle resonated from its chest as it fell into a deep sleep. “I have a dragon,” Alice said to herself. Recommended for those who love fantasy and for those on the fence with this genre, try it. It’s a well-written action adventure by a gifted writer who knows how to write dialogue. He also is a master at descriptions that pull you in and won’t let you out. You’ll be thinking about this story and the well-developed characters long after you’ve finished this book. You could read this book as a standalone, but you will be eager to read the rest of the story. I didn’t want it to end and eagerly await the next instalment. THE SHADOW OF WOODMYST IS HERE Hi.
I'm Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up. Today, I am please to inform you that The Shadow of Woodmyst: The Woodmyst Chronicles Book VI, is now available for your downloading pleasure. The Shadow of Woodmyst is the continuing story of Alice Warde and her journey as leader of the Agrodien. We meet old enemies, new friends and fresh dangers from afar and from within Alice's circle of trusted allies. This book is the sixth out of ten tales that complete the saga. Full of action and edge-of-your-seat moments, The Shadow of Woodmyst is a thrill-filled stepping stone that leads Alice into an adventure that won't reach its ultimate climax until book ten. I hope you enjoy The Shadow of Woodmyst: The Woodmyst Chronicles Book VI. Robert. EXCITED! Hi.
I'm Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up. I'm excited! Why? Because, today, I received copies of my latest book in the Woodmyst Chronicles, The Shadow of Woodmyst. Not only was I happy that they are pleasing to the eye, but I am full of anticipation as the release date draws nearer and nearer. This step in the process is one that makes me a little nervous as I know it will only be a few days until The Shadow of Woodmyst: Book VI is unleashed upon the world. It is the continuing story of Alice and picks up directly where The Huntress of Woodmyst left off. The remaining books in the series will continue this trend, building until the final chapter of Book X. I have posted a book trailer for The Shadow of Woodmyst in anticipation. You can see it on the page dedicated to Book VI of The Woodmyst Chronicles. In the meantime, as we await the arrival of The Shadow of Woodmyst, the first five books of the series are available from all good online e-book stores. The first in the series, The Walls of Woodmyst, remains FREE for all to download. Enjoy! Robert. THE MONSTER ROACH FROM HELL |
 | I AM CALM VOICE |
I AM CALM VOICE
Hi. I'm Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up.
It's been a while since I posted anything, and so I thought it was about time that I introduced you to my new novel which will be made available on e-book later this year.
I Am Calm Voice is a dark psychological novel surrounding the actions of one girl on a fateful morning in April, 2017. Kristin Matthews is fed up with her life, her oppressive parents, and her bullying schoolmates. She is compelled by a soothing voice thrumming in her head to seek revenge on those who have wronged her. At the top of her list is a trio of girls who have taunted her to breaking point. After careful planning, she embarks on a deadly rampage through Edwards Hill State High School, bent on destroying all her pain one final time. What follows is a haunting description of the day’s events, culminating in an ending no one will expect. Below is the opening chapter from I Am Calm Voice.
View the book trailer here.
For more information about I Am Calm Voice, and other works by Robert E Kreig, visit www.robertekreig.com.
THE KILLARNEY FACTOR
SATURDAY MAY 13 2017
The room was lit more brightly than he had believed it to be. It looked a lot darker when he watched the show on his television at home. The set appeared simple, consisting of two black chairs upon a raised platform. Between them was a glass coffee table with a pitcher of water and two freshly filled glasses.
The backdrop was a large black curtain with the words, THE KILLARNEY FACTOR hanging from a drop-down sign attached to something far above them. The studio lights, shining from directly above, out in front and off to each side, were blinding. He didn’t know how people on television did this every day without eventually losing their eyesight.
Perhaps they did.
Sitting in the chair left of screen, he squirmed nervously as he reached for the glass closest to him. He took a quick sip, wishing it was something stronger.
“Take your time,” Bill Killarney, the gracious host, told him.
His eyes moved across the three cameras with their lenses directed towards the two men on the platform.
Placing the glass gingerly on the table, he cleared his throat and moved his gaze back to the other man.
“I’m sorry,” he said. “I’m a little nervous. First time on TV.”
“It’s all right,” Killarney replied. “This isn’t live. We’ll edit this pretty tight for time’s sake. I know that doesn’t sit well, considering the context. It should be me apologizing to you for making you relive this.”
“The wife thinks it might help it I was to talk about it,” the man replied. “I was thinking more along the lines of a therapist or someone like that.”
“I can recommend one I’ve used from time to time after my time reporting from war zones,” the other suggested. “It seems stupid, but they do really help.”
“I might take you up on that.”
“Are you ready to continue, Mister Ramus?”
The man nodded. “I think so.”
“Okay,” Killarney fixed his tie. “Mister Ramus, in your time as Chief Inspector for the Texas Forensics Science Commission, have you encountered a crime scene in any way similar to that which was found at Edwards Hill State High School?”
“Never,” Ramus replied, taking a deep breath afterwards.
“Could you elaborate?”
“You need to understand that this is an ongoing investigation,” he answered. “To all involved, it would appear an open and shut case. But life isn’t that simple. And what we saw in there was anything but a simple homicide or mass shooting for that matter.”
“You’re still referring to this case as a ‘mass shooting’?” Killarney wrote something on a clipboard that was positioned on his lap.
“We don’t know what to call this,” the other said, shaking his head. “Many of the victims were shot. Some were…”
“Are you all right?” Killarney glanced to someone behind the cameras. “Do you want to stop?”
“No,” Ramus replied instantly. “I’d like to continue, please.”
“You were saying?” The host nodded.
“I was saying that most were shot, but there were others who were murdered in more creative ways.” He took another deep breath as he considered the words he had just spoken. “Creative isn’t the right word. But it’s the most appropriate that I can think of at the moment.”
“Talk us through what you encountered,” Killarney suggested. “Keeping in mind that this is an ongoing case.”
“Well,” Ramus reached for the glass of water again. After taking a long sip and swallowing hard, he placed the glass back upon the table. It clunked a little loudly. “Sorry.”
“It’s all right,” the other assured him. “Please continue.”
“We arrived after everything had unfolded,” he said. “It was roughly seven-thirty and already quite dark. Someone had placed a couple of floodlights hooked up to generators around the outside of the building on the front lawn and had them pointing towards the ground. There were two bodies out there. I guess someone watched too many cop shows and decided the lights were needed for our team or something.”
“Where should they have been?”
“We didn’t need them at all,” answered Ramus. “We always bring our own equipment. I mean, it didn’t matter. The power was on and most of the external and internal lights were still working, even after the sprinkler system had been triggered. They weren’t necessary. But, being a small town, maybe someone got a bit zealous and decided to get all the toys out. I don’t know.”
“So you went inside?”
“Yes. We entered at the side of the building through the emergency exit from the school cafeteria. We then split the team up and took different sections of the building. We hoped to process the scene a little quicker by doing this. As I said, it all appeared as an open and shut case.”
“How many were in your team?”
“We had a large team,” Ramus replied. “Eighteen. We were told that there were a lot of victims and that we would need numbers to process the scene.”
“What would a usual number on a forensics team be?”
“Well, that depends upon the scene,” he answered. “I would usually work with a team of three to five. But there have been times when I’ve worked with as many as twenty-five. The truth of the matter is that eighteen was all we could fit into the vehicles with the equipment we brought with us. That, and not too many wanted to go for a ride all the way from Houston to Edwards Hill.”
“What happened next?”
“We split into sub-teams of three. My sub-team moved upstairs where we took the center hallway. The first victims were murdered there. I think it’s safe to say that we found three youths and five adults all with fatal gunshot wounds. One was a police officer and four were teachers employed at the school.”
“Safe to say?” Killarney interjected.
“Sorry?” Ramus moved his eyes to the presenter. His expression appeared as if he didn’t understand the question.
“You said, ‘safe to say’. What do you mean by that?”
“I was referring to the fact that this is still an open case,” Ramus replied. “I know I can’t give names for the time being. I may not be able to discuss gender either. But so much has already been announced in the media, including the victims’ identities, that I feel that I must give some clarification. That’s why I said that I think it’s safe to say these things.”
“Of course.” The host nodded, jotting something else down on his clipboard. “Please.”
“Well, we processed the scene. Put tags down. Took photos and video. Measured what blood spatter hadn’t been washed away, distances of shell casings from the deceased. Nothing all that exciting.
“We then moved into the northern corridor and what we saw were bodies piled upon bodies. It was a complete and utter bloodbath. We spent nearly two hours in that hallway with the assistance of three other sub-teams.
“That was where the bulk of the massacre occurred.” He paused to take another sip of water. Hs eyes were beginning to glisten with moisture. “I had seen blood before. But not that much. Even then, something inside of me told me that I wasn’t going to walk away from this one without some scarring inside my psyche. But there was more.
“It was when we returned downstairs and were summoned by our colleagues to see what was in the gymnasium that caused my stomach to turn. I’ve never seen anything like it in my life and never want to see anything like it ever again.”
“You’re referring to the burnt bodies?”
“Burnt?” George Ramus, resigned Chief Inspector for the Texas Forensics Science Commission felt his throat tighten. His eyes welled with tears. “They were children. Little children that were no older than fourteen at best. I mean, the vast majority of victims were only kids. But I’ve never seen anything like that. Not in my whole thirty-eight years in service with the Forensics Science Commission.”
“And this is what sparked your resignation?” Killarney queried. “It was too much? You didn’t want to see anything like that again?”
“She took their innards,” Ramus blurted. “She arranged their guts along the floor to form four Latin words.”
“What words?” Killarney sat forward, intrigued. He flipped through the papers on his clipboard for notes about such a thing but found nothing. This information was new.
“Jesus,” Ramus started to cry. “What sort of person does that?”
“What were the words, Mister Ramus?”
“You wouldn’t have guessed that someone like her would be capable of doing such things. She killed seventy-three in that school and took the time to leave a message.”
“What was the message she left?”
Ramus didn’t seem to hear the interviewer. The words seemed to simply dribble out of him as he became more and more upset.
“She looked like any other normal kid. But she ripped their stomachs open and took their intestines out.” He was a blubbering mess. His cheeks were wet. His nose was running over his lips in thick strips of mucus.
“Mister Ramus?”
“They were only burnt on the outside, you see,” he explained. “But inside was still raw. Still raw.”
“What message, Mister Ramus?” Killarney pressed.
“I think that’s enough,” called a voice from behind the cameras.
“Mister Ramus…” Killarney reached over and put his hand on George Ramus’ knee. “What was the message she left?”
Ramus started hyperventilating. His breathing became erratic and snot sprayed across the floor at his feet.
“Cut,” the voice from the darkness called. “Cut. The interview is over, Bill.”
“Mister Ramus,” Killarney stood to his feet and placed his hand on Ramus’ shoulder. “I apologize for pushing. Mister Ramus?”
The resigned chief inspector lowered his head towards his knees.
“Oh God,” he wheezed. “Oh God. Oh God.”
Reviews
Author Robert E. Kreig has done it again...
Love might be too strong a word for a work of terror and destruction, but just in case it isn’t, I am going to go ahead and say that I loved I Am Calm Voice. Author Robert E. Kreig has done it again in this work; he has written a book that is simply un-put-down-able. I have been lucky enough to have had the chance to read some of the other fine books by author Kreig, those in his Woodmyst series, but Calm Voice is really little like those. In my opinion, it’s even better. I was downright frightened by some scenes, and that almost never happens to me when reading a book, even by some of the most recognizable names in horror-based fiction. It is easy for me to give this book my highest recommendation, and to say that I simply cannot wait to read more from the extremely talented (and dare I say, perhaps somewhat twisted) author, Robert E. Kreig, as soon as he has something available!
Tracy A. Fischer
author of 'The Sort of Life of Julie Winterfeldt (The Julie Winterfeldt Series)'
One of the more intense, haunting novels I have read...
I really enjoyed I Am Calm Voice. This is certainly one of the more intense, haunting novels I have read in recent memory. Mr. Kreig takes us into the minds of not only Kristin, but her victims as well. The feelings of fear and worry are palpable, not just from the people involved, but the community as well. I Am Calm Voice is almost shocking in the way Kristin coldly takes lives, compelled by her inner demons. Mr. Kreig almost suggests the ‘Calm Voice’ is an otherworldly entity, coaxing people to kill and playing on their innermost insecurities. It’s a fascinating metaphor for psychosis and psychopathy, and makes one wonder what does go through the heads of people who plan murder on a massive scale. I highly recommend this novel.
Heather Osborne
author of 'Rae Hatting Mysteries (series)'
I Am Calm Voice by Robert E Kreig is a masterful blend of crime fiction and thriller, a compelling work that features an unusual serial killer.
Robert E. Kreig is a gifted writer who knows how to hook readers from the very beginning. The story opens with a televised interview of a former member of the forensic team, an opening that immediately introduces the reader to the powerful conflict that will permeate every layer of the plot. The author combines the power of vivid descriptions and plot-driven dialogue with the gift of storytelling to create a world where readers feel anxious but excited to navigate. As I read this intriguing story, I couldn’t help but think of this author together with James Patterson. I loved the way the protagonist is crafted, a complex character with a psychological problem called The Calm Voice, something she identifies with. I Am Calm Voice will entertain and shock readers and they won’t be able to put it aside.
Romuald Dzemo
for Readers' Favorite
It's been a while since I posted anything, and so I thought it was about time that I introduced you to my new novel which will be made available on e-book later this year.
I Am Calm Voice is a dark psychological novel surrounding the actions of one girl on a fateful morning in April, 2017. Kristin Matthews is fed up with her life, her oppressive parents, and her bullying schoolmates. She is compelled by a soothing voice thrumming in her head to seek revenge on those who have wronged her. At the top of her list is a trio of girls who have taunted her to breaking point. After careful planning, she embarks on a deadly rampage through Edwards Hill State High School, bent on destroying all her pain one final time. What follows is a haunting description of the day’s events, culminating in an ending no one will expect. Below is the opening chapter from I Am Calm Voice.
View the book trailer here.
For more information about I Am Calm Voice, and other works by Robert E Kreig, visit www.robertekreig.com.
THE KILLARNEY FACTOR
SATURDAY MAY 13 2017
The room was lit more brightly than he had believed it to be. It looked a lot darker when he watched the show on his television at home. The set appeared simple, consisting of two black chairs upon a raised platform. Between them was a glass coffee table with a pitcher of water and two freshly filled glasses.
The backdrop was a large black curtain with the words, THE KILLARNEY FACTOR hanging from a drop-down sign attached to something far above them. The studio lights, shining from directly above, out in front and off to each side, were blinding. He didn’t know how people on television did this every day without eventually losing their eyesight.
Perhaps they did.
Sitting in the chair left of screen, he squirmed nervously as he reached for the glass closest to him. He took a quick sip, wishing it was something stronger.
“Take your time,” Bill Killarney, the gracious host, told him.
His eyes moved across the three cameras with their lenses directed towards the two men on the platform.
Placing the glass gingerly on the table, he cleared his throat and moved his gaze back to the other man.
“I’m sorry,” he said. “I’m a little nervous. First time on TV.”
“It’s all right,” Killarney replied. “This isn’t live. We’ll edit this pretty tight for time’s sake. I know that doesn’t sit well, considering the context. It should be me apologizing to you for making you relive this.”
“The wife thinks it might help it I was to talk about it,” the man replied. “I was thinking more along the lines of a therapist or someone like that.”
“I can recommend one I’ve used from time to time after my time reporting from war zones,” the other suggested. “It seems stupid, but they do really help.”
“I might take you up on that.”
“Are you ready to continue, Mister Ramus?”
The man nodded. “I think so.”
“Okay,” Killarney fixed his tie. “Mister Ramus, in your time as Chief Inspector for the Texas Forensics Science Commission, have you encountered a crime scene in any way similar to that which was found at Edwards Hill State High School?”
“Never,” Ramus replied, taking a deep breath afterwards.
“Could you elaborate?”
“You need to understand that this is an ongoing investigation,” he answered. “To all involved, it would appear an open and shut case. But life isn’t that simple. And what we saw in there was anything but a simple homicide or mass shooting for that matter.”
“You’re still referring to this case as a ‘mass shooting’?” Killarney wrote something on a clipboard that was positioned on his lap.
“We don’t know what to call this,” the other said, shaking his head. “Many of the victims were shot. Some were…”
“Are you all right?” Killarney glanced to someone behind the cameras. “Do you want to stop?”
“No,” Ramus replied instantly. “I’d like to continue, please.”
“You were saying?” The host nodded.
“I was saying that most were shot, but there were others who were murdered in more creative ways.” He took another deep breath as he considered the words he had just spoken. “Creative isn’t the right word. But it’s the most appropriate that I can think of at the moment.”
“Talk us through what you encountered,” Killarney suggested. “Keeping in mind that this is an ongoing case.”
“Well,” Ramus reached for the glass of water again. After taking a long sip and swallowing hard, he placed the glass back upon the table. It clunked a little loudly. “Sorry.”
“It’s all right,” the other assured him. “Please continue.”
“We arrived after everything had unfolded,” he said. “It was roughly seven-thirty and already quite dark. Someone had placed a couple of floodlights hooked up to generators around the outside of the building on the front lawn and had them pointing towards the ground. There were two bodies out there. I guess someone watched too many cop shows and decided the lights were needed for our team or something.”
“Where should they have been?”
“We didn’t need them at all,” answered Ramus. “We always bring our own equipment. I mean, it didn’t matter. The power was on and most of the external and internal lights were still working, even after the sprinkler system had been triggered. They weren’t necessary. But, being a small town, maybe someone got a bit zealous and decided to get all the toys out. I don’t know.”
“So you went inside?”
“Yes. We entered at the side of the building through the emergency exit from the school cafeteria. We then split the team up and took different sections of the building. We hoped to process the scene a little quicker by doing this. As I said, it all appeared as an open and shut case.”
“How many were in your team?”
“We had a large team,” Ramus replied. “Eighteen. We were told that there were a lot of victims and that we would need numbers to process the scene.”
“What would a usual number on a forensics team be?”
“Well, that depends upon the scene,” he answered. “I would usually work with a team of three to five. But there have been times when I’ve worked with as many as twenty-five. The truth of the matter is that eighteen was all we could fit into the vehicles with the equipment we brought with us. That, and not too many wanted to go for a ride all the way from Houston to Edwards Hill.”
“What happened next?”
“We split into sub-teams of three. My sub-team moved upstairs where we took the center hallway. The first victims were murdered there. I think it’s safe to say that we found three youths and five adults all with fatal gunshot wounds. One was a police officer and four were teachers employed at the school.”
“Safe to say?” Killarney interjected.
“Sorry?” Ramus moved his eyes to the presenter. His expression appeared as if he didn’t understand the question.
“You said, ‘safe to say’. What do you mean by that?”
“I was referring to the fact that this is still an open case,” Ramus replied. “I know I can’t give names for the time being. I may not be able to discuss gender either. But so much has already been announced in the media, including the victims’ identities, that I feel that I must give some clarification. That’s why I said that I think it’s safe to say these things.”
“Of course.” The host nodded, jotting something else down on his clipboard. “Please.”
“Well, we processed the scene. Put tags down. Took photos and video. Measured what blood spatter hadn’t been washed away, distances of shell casings from the deceased. Nothing all that exciting.
“We then moved into the northern corridor and what we saw were bodies piled upon bodies. It was a complete and utter bloodbath. We spent nearly two hours in that hallway with the assistance of three other sub-teams.
“That was where the bulk of the massacre occurred.” He paused to take another sip of water. Hs eyes were beginning to glisten with moisture. “I had seen blood before. But not that much. Even then, something inside of me told me that I wasn’t going to walk away from this one without some scarring inside my psyche. But there was more.
“It was when we returned downstairs and were summoned by our colleagues to see what was in the gymnasium that caused my stomach to turn. I’ve never seen anything like it in my life and never want to see anything like it ever again.”
“You’re referring to the burnt bodies?”
“Burnt?” George Ramus, resigned Chief Inspector for the Texas Forensics Science Commission felt his throat tighten. His eyes welled with tears. “They were children. Little children that were no older than fourteen at best. I mean, the vast majority of victims were only kids. But I’ve never seen anything like that. Not in my whole thirty-eight years in service with the Forensics Science Commission.”
“And this is what sparked your resignation?” Killarney queried. “It was too much? You didn’t want to see anything like that again?”
“She took their innards,” Ramus blurted. “She arranged their guts along the floor to form four Latin words.”
“What words?” Killarney sat forward, intrigued. He flipped through the papers on his clipboard for notes about such a thing but found nothing. This information was new.
“Jesus,” Ramus started to cry. “What sort of person does that?”
“What were the words, Mister Ramus?”
“You wouldn’t have guessed that someone like her would be capable of doing such things. She killed seventy-three in that school and took the time to leave a message.”
“What was the message she left?”
Ramus didn’t seem to hear the interviewer. The words seemed to simply dribble out of him as he became more and more upset.
“She looked like any other normal kid. But she ripped their stomachs open and took their intestines out.” He was a blubbering mess. His cheeks were wet. His nose was running over his lips in thick strips of mucus.
“Mister Ramus?”
“They were only burnt on the outside, you see,” he explained. “But inside was still raw. Still raw.”
“What message, Mister Ramus?” Killarney pressed.
“I think that’s enough,” called a voice from behind the cameras.
“Mister Ramus…” Killarney reached over and put his hand on George Ramus’ knee. “What was the message she left?”
Ramus started hyperventilating. His breathing became erratic and snot sprayed across the floor at his feet.
“Cut,” the voice from the darkness called. “Cut. The interview is over, Bill.”
“Mister Ramus,” Killarney stood to his feet and placed his hand on Ramus’ shoulder. “I apologize for pushing. Mister Ramus?”
The resigned chief inspector lowered his head towards his knees.
“Oh God,” he wheezed. “Oh God. Oh God.”
Reviews
Author Robert E. Kreig has done it again...
Love might be too strong a word for a work of terror and destruction, but just in case it isn’t, I am going to go ahead and say that I loved I Am Calm Voice. Author Robert E. Kreig has done it again in this work; he has written a book that is simply un-put-down-able. I have been lucky enough to have had the chance to read some of the other fine books by author Kreig, those in his Woodmyst series, but Calm Voice is really little like those. In my opinion, it’s even better. I was downright frightened by some scenes, and that almost never happens to me when reading a book, even by some of the most recognizable names in horror-based fiction. It is easy for me to give this book my highest recommendation, and to say that I simply cannot wait to read more from the extremely talented (and dare I say, perhaps somewhat twisted) author, Robert E. Kreig, as soon as he has something available!
Tracy A. Fischer
author of 'The Sort of Life of Julie Winterfeldt (The Julie Winterfeldt Series)'
One of the more intense, haunting novels I have read...
I really enjoyed I Am Calm Voice. This is certainly one of the more intense, haunting novels I have read in recent memory. Mr. Kreig takes us into the minds of not only Kristin, but her victims as well. The feelings of fear and worry are palpable, not just from the people involved, but the community as well. I Am Calm Voice is almost shocking in the way Kristin coldly takes lives, compelled by her inner demons. Mr. Kreig almost suggests the ‘Calm Voice’ is an otherworldly entity, coaxing people to kill and playing on their innermost insecurities. It’s a fascinating metaphor for psychosis and psychopathy, and makes one wonder what does go through the heads of people who plan murder on a massive scale. I highly recommend this novel.
Heather Osborne
author of 'Rae Hatting Mysteries (series)'
I Am Calm Voice by Robert E Kreig is a masterful blend of crime fiction and thriller, a compelling work that features an unusual serial killer.
Robert E. Kreig is a gifted writer who knows how to hook readers from the very beginning. The story opens with a televised interview of a former member of the forensic team, an opening that immediately introduces the reader to the powerful conflict that will permeate every layer of the plot. The author combines the power of vivid descriptions and plot-driven dialogue with the gift of storytelling to create a world where readers feel anxious but excited to navigate. As I read this intriguing story, I couldn’t help but think of this author together with James Patterson. I loved the way the protagonist is crafted, a complex character with a psychological problem called The Calm Voice, something she identifies with. I Am Calm Voice will entertain and shock readers and they won’t be able to put it aside.
Romuald Dzemo
for Readers' Favorite
Author
Hi.
I'm Robert E Kreig and I make stuff up.
Archives
January 2019
December 2018
September 2018
June 2018
May 2018
April 2018
March 2018
February 2018
January 2018
December 2017
November 2017
October 2017
September 2017
August 2017
June 2017
April 2017
January 2017
October 2016
September 2016
August 2016
July 2016
June 2016
May 2016
April 2016
March 2016
February 2016
December 2015
RSS Feed
