Beltaine

In a June 25, 2011 post, I wrote:"The History of Love is not my favorite Jewish fiction ever. That might be Nomi Eve's The Family Orchard, Markus Zusak's The Book Thief or possibly Mona in the Promised Land by Gish Jen."The post then deviated from a discussion of fiction, as one might guess from its title, "5 Jewish Dudes I'd Most Like to See Lewd." ("Lewd" was the buzzword of last year's Congressman Anthony Weiner scandal.) At the moment, it's my #7 all-time most viewed post.  Imagine my...Read Full Story

Blessed be! The Wheel of the Year turns to Beltane (sometimes spelled Beltaine), or May Day. In the Northern Hemisphere, this cross-quarter Pagan celebration falls halfway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice.Beltane celebrates the consummation of the union of God and Goddess, and fertility in general. The family-friendly explanation of Beltane is that it celebrates the fertility of the growing crops. Its primary symbols are the maypole and fire. One way to celebrate it is to...Read Full Story

Whether you're stopping by from the Coffin Hop, a regular reader or just passing through, you're invited to take part in the trick-or-treat giveaway. I encourage you to visit as many of the 96 participating horror/weird fiction authors as you would like; you're sure to find a new favorite. My guest on Thursday the 27th, Maxim Jakubowski, will also be hosting a separate giveaway which you are welcome to enter.Please allow me to introduce myself: I'm Erin O'Riordan, and I write paranormal...Read Full Story

Today, while I chill out from last night's party, visit my great-aunt and spend some time with my mom, please enjoy these highlights of the Pagan Spirits book blog over the past year. January - "The Journal of Rosa and Bella" Pt. 1, by Shah WhartonFebruary - Amber Chen's Hottest Sci-Fi CouplesMarch - The Forgotten Saints of IrelandApril - Crime thriller The Smell of Gas by Erin O'Riordan and Tit ElingtinMay - Day of Revenge by Deanna ProachJune - 5 Jewish Dudes I'd Most Like to See LewdJuly...Read Full Story

Allie took Melissa’s hand and went with her. They sat on the ground, a little too close to the fire for Allie’s comfort. Sweat dripped off her body as she watched Zen swaying along with the other women, dancing around the maypole in time to the music of a circle of drummers. Melissa sat close by Allie, narrating the dance for her.“The Goddess draws near to her lover,” Melissa said. Her voice sounded far-off,dreamy. Allie watched the pink and red ribbons intertwine around the top of the pole...Read Full Story