Stories should interest you, touch you, move you. There are 134 in ‘Next’. Many, possibly even most, will do just that. ‘Youth’, ‘love’, ‘life’, ‘death’, and so much more. Stories often relevant to you, your life, past and future. Stories very readable, memorable. ‘Next’ is generous, a friend you will want to spend time with. A book to keep beside your favourite chair, beside your bed. A friend to meet up with often over the years. Rather special, rather out of the ordinary.

Ritual trance has always been closely associated with music—but why, and how? Gilbert Rouget offers and extended analysis of music and trance, concluding that no universal law can explain the relations between music and trance; they vary greatly and depend on the system of meaning of their cultural context. Rouget rigorously examines a worldwide corpus of data from ethnographic literature, but he also draws on the Bible, his own fieldwork in West Africa, and the writings of Plato, Ghazzali, and Rousseau. To organize this immense store of information, he develops a typology of trance based on symbolism and external manifestations. He outlines the fundamental distinctions between trance and ecstasy, shamanism and spirit possession, and communal and emotional trance. Music is analyzed in terms of performers, practices, instruments, and associations with dance. Each kind of trance draws strength from music in different ways at different points in a ritual, Rouget concludes. In possession trance, music induces the adept to identify himself with his deity and allows him to express this identification through dance. Forcefully rejecting pseudo-science and reductionism, Rouget demystifies the so-called theory of the neurophysiological effects of drumming on trance. He concludes that music's physiological and emotional effects are inseparable from patterns of collective representations and behavior, and that music and trance are linked in as many ways as there are cultural structures.

Therapeutic Trances is a manifesto of the fundamental principles and techniques of Ericksonian hypnotherapy. This innovative volume lays out the principles and practice of developing relationships with patients and creating a hypnotic environment in which true healing can take place. The book offers therapists specific questions to ask and practical ideas to pursue, thereby illustrating how therapists may cooperate with clients to translate problems into solutions. Stephen Gilligan synthesizes the approaches of Erickson, Bandler & Grinder, and Bateson to bring a new perspective to the field.

Discover the mind-bending world of "Blank?" by Randall Garrett, where memory is both a gift and a curse, and the line between reality and illusion blurs. Step into a future where memory manipulation is a dangerous game, and the stakes couldn't be higher. Follow the journey of [Main Character Name], who finds themselves thrust into a conspiracy that threatens not only their memories but the very fabric of their existence. Garrett's narrative prowess unfolds with gripping plot points and intricate character development, weaving themes of identity, deception, and the ethical dilemmas of technological advancement. As [Main Character Name] races against time to uncover the truth, readers are drawn into a world where every memory holds a clue and every revelation reshapes the narrative landscape. The tone of "Blank?" oscillates between suspenseful mystery and philosophical introspection, challenging readers to question the nature of memory and the essence of self. Through vivid descriptions and thought-provoking dialogue, Garrett explores the depths of human consciousness with a narrative that is both compelling and profound. Critically acclaimed for its innovative approach to science fiction and its exploration of existential themes, "Blank?" resonates with a diverse audience intrigued by speculative fiction that pushes the boundaries of the genre. Whether you're a seasoned fan of science fiction or new to the genre, "Blank?" promises a captivating journey into a world where memories are the ultimate currency. Embrace the mystery, challenge your perceptions, and uncover the truth alongside [Main Character Name]. Your next unforgettable read awaits. Don't miss out on the exhilarating adventure of "Blank?" Grab your copy now and immerse yourself in Randall Garrett's visionary tale of memory, identity, and the power of discovery.

At the tender age of thirteen, Madison Vaughn found her true love, fulfilling her belief in happily-ever-after. Though experiencing these deep feelings for the first time, her heart was influenced forever. But the necklace she wore became a symbol of the betrayal of the love she had so willingly offered. While exploring her antique jewelry box, Madison travels into another world . . . the world of Maxine Vancouver and her first love. Not only will the choices Madison makes impact the future, but she also faces another problem . . . falling in love with her high school sweetheart all over again. Will she forgive him for the past? Find out in this time-twisting tale about first loves, first hurts, and the merit of forgiveness. Its passionate and lighthearted moments make it a completely captivating story about a love that never dies.

Dorina Basarab is a dhampir—half-human, half-vampire. Subject to uncontrollable rages, most dhampirs live very short, very violent lives. But so far, Dory has managed to maintain her sanity by unleashing her anger on those demons and vampires who deserve killing... Dory is used to fighting hard and nasty. So when she wakes up in a strange scientific lab with a strange man standing over her, her first instinct is to take his head off. Luckily, the man is actually the master vampire Louis-Cesare, so he’s not an easy kill. It turns out that Dory had been working with a Vampire Senate task force on the smuggling of magical items and weaponry out of Faerie when she was captured and brought to the lab. But when Louis-Cesare rescues her, she has no memory of what happened to her. To find out what was done to her—and who is behind it—Dory will have to face off with fallen angels, the maddest of mad scientists, and a new breed of vampires that are far worse than undead…

It's 2065. Those born with magic abilities live in government-run zones, without rights or freedoms. Fear of magic created this segregated world and fear keeps it intact. A high-profile murder brings Detective Nathan Perez to Magic Born Zone 13. He's had little experience with the Magic Born and isn't sure what to expect during his first encounter with a witch, but he never thought he'd be so drawn to her. Trancehacker Calla Vesper uses magic to break into computers and aid the Magic Born underground. She has no interest in helping a cop, even if he is smoking-hot, but money's tight and Nate offers a tidy amount for help navigating the Zone. Calla's determined to keep it all business, but sparks start flying before the investigation even gets started. When Calla's trancehacking and Nathan's investigation uncover a conspiracy, Calla becomes a target. Nate can protect her by keeping her role a secret—but then who will protect Nate? 89,000 words