First, pardon, I am still calling the book by its working title of: LOSS (not willing to give away final production title just yet). I will, however, give a hint of: “RC:TLK” which will then help you more easily find on Amazon via my Author page:
https://tinyurl.com/JLDonAMAZON
Some books you can get a Personalized Autographed copy of older books via:
https://JosephMLenard.us/shop.

 

This online BONUS MATERIAL, for those that like behind-the-scenes, extras type materials… Not just read, but dive deeper into things…

 

 

By the working title, should be pretty clear what as part of LIFE AND LIVING is dealing in / with (this going to be 5th in https://tinyurl.com/LifeAndLivingSeries (L&L) – but important to note, each in series are stand-alone stories can be read without relation to any come in series (a loose collection of sub-topics pertaining to various aspects of LIFE AND LIVING overall, human-nature, psychology of lives on this planet, more)).

 

The book slated for release as an Amazon (https://tinyurl.com/JLDonAMAZON) Kindle exclusive short-story release in May 2026. But an associated THEME SONG already released: -see/hear: https://suno.com/s/fJ6DqQ2oHVsZ9OYf

 

This is part of final preparations for releasing and this BeforeItsNews (B4IN) article (https://tinyurl.com/JLDonB4IN) will be referenced within the book as additional online BONUS MATERIAL (as well as promotional pre-release considerations).

 

I am trying to write this to avoid DIRECT SPOILERS in case someone is visiting here before reading the “LOSS” or any of the other in Life And Living (L&L) series of books.

 

Three primary sections will appear below: Acknowledgments, Dedications, and Introductions (yes, two, it will make sense why as you read along)… And, yes, this is DETAILED, very DETAILED, in other words – LONG READ FORM, if you prefer TikTok attention span Headline only form (this is NOT for you – but the following song is: TLDR (Too Long Didn’t Read) [in case you are unfamiliar with the social-media slang: https://suno.com/s/7MYuaN1zSLZVHnlz). And here is the CTP episode on such:

 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

 

I wanted to make an important announcement - an acknowledgment regarding LOSS as part of Life And Living and as further extension to the book: “Complicated!” (video trailer at: https://old.bitchute.com/video/MQXoGN3QpEDd/). Being a Christian author (“Joseph M. Lenard” (pronounced like most do “Leonard,” without and “o” in my surname), not the same as other Christian author “Joseph Lenard” of South Carolina (note no middle-initial as I use)), this book refers / relates to the title should be very apparent (yes, life and living, human nature, the human condition, does indeed get complex and complicated at times – chaotic, also at times; our thoughts race and especially for someone that suffers ADHD and OCD blend / combination (BiPolar set) of issues as is case with Rick (lead character); as the writing in this manuscript is intentionally intending (at times the verbiage and flow odd) to portray).

 

The point I wanted to note is that this book contains zero dialogue (it uses a narrator style for stylistic strategy - though, must note, there are occasional quotations made (may have been part of dialogue between peoples at one point, but strictly provided as quoted text and not related directly to potential prior dialogue where-ever prior may have occurred; as well as a few words in quotation marks for emphasis (easy "see" in an eBook presentation) vs in usual printed formats would be bolded and italicized).

 

I feel it necessary to say that because a reviewer of my “TERROR STRIKES: COMING SOON TO A CITY NEAR YOU” [TS] novel once wrote that she didn’t think there was enough dialogue in it (which, of course, is a subjective measurement that varies in thought by reader expectations).

In all the interviews I have given regarding that [TS] book (some of which at / via:  https://TerrorStrikes.info/interviews), I never promised it would be a dialogue-laden book. 

 

TS, as is this book and others in “Joseph M Lenard life and living series,” about Life and Living. Life over Death. Hope over Fear. Faith over Despair. Love over Hate. Good over Evil. Family and Friends. Positivity over Pessimism. More…

Recurring themes across the “Joseph M Lenard life and living series” of manuscripts (which loosely) tie each book within the series, some minor character overlap – not true prequels / sequels as traditionally thought of; if you’ve not discovered yet. I do NOT always follow norms and publishing traditions (welcome to the 21^st Century – day and age of internet, social media, etc., and all that has done with and / or too (if you prefer) our language).

 

This “LOSS,” before it Complicated!” as well as “A Short Story: A Lasting Legacy?” and TBOK:PCD, which came before those, are similar. Seemingly, everything I’ve been writing since TS is about life. Optimism over Pessimism. Positivism vs Negativism. Faith over Despair.

 

Though let me be clear – this is NOT just a book for Christians, and I try to take VERY LITE HAND in promoting my Faith here and in all my manuscripts (well, the CTP series a bit more direct, LOL). One does not have to be a Person of Faith to understand, want, hope for, A POSITIVE PURPOSE-DRIVEN LIFE. 

 

Well, let me correct myself… what I said above was very true of the books in series prior, this “LOSS” book; since it is a short-story (vs others novel or novelette in word and page count sizes); I do make reference to more Scriptures than in the books prior. They provide context, but again whether or NOT you are a Christian, to the point or relation to frame of mind of Rick (yes, primary character is a Christian) at the various points there-in the quotations made. Like a picture may be worth a thousand words (the old saying) so to, in a sense, a Scriptural reference kinda / sorta implies far more / beyond just the words in that passage (onto the page, and into this book).

 

Trying to get trending desire / want put good (Philia fashion love, further among the existing versus God’s reserved Agape, and worldly Storge (pronounced STO-ree) and Eros, kinds of love)  out into the world and HOPE that good comes in return – as Rick Springfield says in his KARMA song (from album of same name) “you know every bit of Love, I give to another, you know what I believe? It comes back to me!” There need be NO RELIGIOUS TIE to that desire / belief, and trying to bring positivity in life. Less directly touched upon in “LOSS” (but a part, and here is where reading the other books in the series IS HELPFUL but NOT NECESSARY / REQUIRED), more implied, more left as the “between the lines” commentary, versus the direct verbiage referencing and addressing in “TBOK:PCD” book (video trailer for which can be viewed online at: https://old.bitchute.com/video/HveFXrOANNPl/).

 

What will be the sum measure of your life?

 

Big question, and I hope my writings of late (actually, all of them) serve to empower all to want to answer that for themselves. Self-reflection time (CTP episode on such: https://old.bitchute.com/video/XDVp6XFJkW2x/)!

 

 This (“LOSS“) book, as well as “Complicated!” and “The Book Of Kennedy: Project Carpe Diem” [TBOK:PCD] and “A Short Story: A Lasting Legacy?” (and to lesser extent the original LIFE AND LIVING (series) book, despite the title misnomer suggesting about death and destruction instead: “Terror Strikes: Coming Soon to a City Near You!”)) also asks that you focus toward positive.

 

We need to understand that bad things sometimes happen to good people; let us not dwell on the negatives.

 

We may not always recognize the value of our own life and its meaning and purpose. Just because we don’t see it daily or even notice it, doesn’t mean it isn’t the case. It does have value, meaning, and purpose.

Sadly, our negative side of human nature often gets the better of us, becomes the primary focus, and we overlook the good things (it drags us down). Indeed, what others might see. Most principally, though, what others think is not as important as what God knows about us (a meme I often share across social media).

 

Worrisome though, others may not have enough of that negativity / pessimism attitude (or I might add, honor, integrity, self-reflection) gene (for lack of a better way to put it) and suffer the Sin of hubris (full-of-oneself, sub-theme that I will touch upon herein this manuscript (as my non-fiction CTP series)).

 

Part of this book—the whole “life and living series” sequencing of manuscripts —is all we need to self-reflect at times, but not obsess—a balance. To come to grips with our humanity and what all that means – to understand the animal human-nature and psychological parts of ourselves, and an important (IMO) piece of why I write these books and created this ongoing series of manuscripts.

 

Also, I sure hope all are reading both this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT and the INTRODUCTION sections, as they are part of the overall (hint into what to expect, get you in the right mindset, without going into any spoilers) story in a way (and, yes, apologies, probably too long for a section) – essential to understand as setup for the otherwise novelette, versus this being a whole, longer, novel) story / tale.

 

 

 

DEDICATIONS

Thank you to…

… those identified in chapter-specific mentions (mainly speaking to musical artists references) – and those who will see their “name” was borrowed for a fictional (fictionalize representation of a new) character name(s).

… all those who have bad days and questions often struggling through life – aren’t we all. This is for you!  As a Man of Faith, my Thoughts and Prayers for your good tidings!

… all my friends and acquaintances along life’s journey. You have all been a great source of comfort and companionship for me, and I hope that I have been, or will be, the same for each of you from now on.

… all those of you who have so graciously chosen to spend some time with me through the pages of this publication.

I hope you find what you’re looking for within the margins of “LOSS” and / or other books in the L&L series, whether you want mere entertainment, enlightenment, or something else. Dance, friends, dance (those that read “TBOK:PCD” will better understand the reference and why I say that!

… those helping others through charitable pursuits (please aid the pay it forward movement – see: https://TerrorStrikes.info/charities).

And, of course, thoughts and prayers to the families of so many of those we’ve lost. Rest in peace, your memory lives on in us all. As well as “thoughts and prayers,” those in mental or physical suffering.

 

 

DISCLAIMER

 

All names, characters, and incidents portrayed herein are of an entirely fictitious nature or used fictitiously.

No identification of any event(s) or actual person(s), living or dead; place(s); building(s); product(s); or organization(s); is intended or should be inferred.

Opinion(s) expressed herein are provided for dramatization purposes only and may not reflect that of the author(s), publisher(s), and / or other parties / persons involved with the production or promotion of this publication.

This work may contain colloquialisms and / or slang, as well as grammatical usage(s) and / or regional dialect implications, constructs that are the product of the author and are not purely traditional English language norms.

The use of product(s), location(s), and dramatized uses of service(s) or other potentially proprietary information herein is for dramatization purposes only and is at the sole discretion of the author(s) / creator(s) of this production. No consideration for use has been given for the portrayal.

Intended for all audiences – young, old, and everywhere in-between; male, female; religious, non-religious; political, non-political.

More information about the author at:

https://TerrorStrikes.info/about-the-author.

 

The “LOSS” book most particularly adding dedication to / for: John Z, Ace, so many others…

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION
[actually TWO Intro's - the longer form from "Complicated!" book (for reference, as I cut it down in the "LOSS" book and want share it here understanding longer form overall relation of / in L&L series of books (leaving in the footnotes reference; as, yes, "Complicated!" while a fiction book I thought necessary / needed a "citations / footnotes" section in it - those footnotes will not be shared here). As well as a copy of the Introduction that does appear in the "LOSS" book.]

 

F irst, I hope my writing style reflects my love of math classes over English classes (though I did take a few semesters of journalism and wrote for the high school paper) when I was in school; despite my love of reading the written word, I have an even greater love of expressing my thoughts through my own writing including unique style; I hope it does not interfere with reading enjoyment.

 

Yes, some of this is repeated from previous manuscripts; however, not all of it is. Some will be unique / exclusive to this book. Some points need to be repeated, as this may be someone’s first Joseph M. Lenard media book and may include information they should know.

 

Yes, I realize that some readers will find this section too long; however, it is crucial to understand the story (overall “life and living series”). Even some of the story’s concepts are not explicitly spelled out within the storyline pages (trying to keep manuscript size down a bit, to be friendlier to your pocketbook as you’ll get a / this story for a far lower price than if it were expounded out to a full novel size).

 

This is a modern telling / writing! Expecting Dickens, Hemingway, Shakespeare? WRONG GUY – I speak and write “modern US English” (your region may vary LOL). No, that is not a “dis” (criticism) of them (you will find my admiration for them and other considered classic writers within, as I will quote their (and others’) work hereinafter); it is simply an acknowledgment / point that we are in the 21st Century (internet, social media, and related trends that affect modern language use).

 

Now, having said that, do NOT get me wrong.  I absolutely loved (wait… what… put that in still present tense as I still love…) Dickens, Hemingway, Shakespeare, others, (and, again: you will find my admiration for them within as I will quote their work here-in), and so many more wonderful classic writers (even though they’ve passed, their work lives on and breathes still on their behalf – never to fade away) and their fare. I even quote Shakespeare⁴ (as well as Longfellow⁶) herein this manuscript (as well as them and other classic authors, in some of my other books).

 

However, let me be clear: that was then; this is now. It saddens me to say that we are in the days of the internet and social media, which have seemingly ushered in a new era of expectations for speaking and writing. Short-cuts, desire for a “give me the Cliff Notes version of everything” mentality when, as I say over and over, details matter! Headlines can be misleading. Short posts, online articles, and even many so-called mainstream media outlets (including radio and TV coverage) often lack facts (frequently because they aim to omit information, trying to shape opinions devoid of reality and evidence rather than report events in detail). Despite our desire to retain traditions, the new era calls for adjustments to accommodate modern realities.

Who am I and from whence did I come (and why I don’t have “Dr.” (though eligible to use, if I wanted, not important IMO to go into that) in front of my name on this or any of my other books  –  as arguments / points (even when delivered in fiction works) either holds up on its own merits or doesn’t and having any salutation or closing post-nominal-letters matters little if anything said on any issue is shallow and cannot hold to peer-review)?

 

In my opinion, none of that is an enormously relevant issue in whether you will enjoy this publication. Therefore, beyond just saying I’m old, well, of course, relative to you or not, is an open question. I was born in the early 1960s, and at least I sure feel old some days more than others. I am male, in case the name didn’t give it away, and I was born and raised and happy to still be in Wyandotte, Michigan; well, actually, I was born in a hospital the next city over, but anyway…

 

If you really, Really, REALLY are interested in knowing more about me, visit my “Terror Strikes: Coming Soon to a City Near You” website: https://TerrorStrikes.info/about-the-author page.

 

The world is different today from when I grew up, when the written and film worlds were more typical, when the book was the book. That was it for your money. And the movie was the movie; it is no longer the case now.

 

Every movie you buy on DVD or Blu-ray usually includes bonus materials: behind-the-scenes footage, edited scenes, alternate scenes, or alternate endings.  Therefore, I thought you would appreciate additional (BONUS MATERIAL) items (bang for your bucks – again, me wanting to be kind to your pocketbook).

 

Everything is online these days in some shape or related form, and, thus, an additional items / materials part of your experience with this book is online where you can see a brief note about (online articles that relate with) particular chapters (of this novelette or the corresponding / correlating TBOK:PCD and A Short Story: A Lasting Legacy novelettes) or other reference materials. So, I’m offering those added online bonus¹ offers FREE OF CHARGE (rather, no additional costs tacked on to the purchase price of this, and my other books).

 

I am telling you all this now, at the beginning of the book, before you get into the nitty gritty of the story rather than the end and will share those online links as an aside for while you are reading (obviously in print, all you’ll notice is the hyperlink underlined (or referenced as a footnote¹ vs usable link in eBook (and not every single thing cross-referenced herein which should be usable / clickable link in eBook version included in footnotes (that even extra BONUS MATERIAL in the eBook version))) – depending upon your eReader type / version may or may not appear in blue and underlined and actually hyperlink-active for use to jump onto internet from); if you want to go there is your option and then you can pick the book back up after your side-trip to the Internet. It is not necessary, however, for you to do so to enjoy the book (the story is sufficiently complete as it stands in this version of the manuscript); you can always come back to this INTRODUCTION after you read to pick up on some of the additional BONUS MATERIAL here and not in the FOOTNOTES section. This is just an option I offer. Not your typical book / manuscript.

 

Further, about this book being about life and living. Part of “life and living series” of books from me (which can be found via Amazon at: https://tinyurl.com/LifeAndLivingSeries). All are loosely tied together by theme and some minor cross-referencing of characters, though not actual / true prequels / sequels to and from each other.

 

This one, compared to the others in the series, is more explicit about the complexity and, at times, the chaotic nature of life and living. I have a few online pieces that therefore relate to the reference here. Just as I did with my “TERROR STRIKES: COMING SOON TO A CITY NEAR YOU” book that had bonus material¹ and additional online content URLs, I am doing the same here in this manuscript.

 

Life is often ”unfair.” Children frequently cling to the argument “It’s not Fair,” but as we get older and grow, we come to understand that life is not always “fair” and that we must navigate the world as best we can. So, another carry-over from my Terror Strikes novel, I wish to provide here is being “fair” addressed in: https://tinyurl.com/DefineFAIR.

 

Top item on my list of online writings dealing in and with life is a piece that came out of my TS book as I have my primary character there-in say too my life philosophy of “Things can always be better, but they can often be worse” (that “fairness” thing again?) – that you can more easily find using (my favorite) link size reducer / shortener / cheater (TinyUrl) shortcut: https://tinyurl.com/CanBeBetterCanBeWorse which is a purposeful reoccurring sub-theme in “life and living series.”

 

Semi-related, not discussed therein: “We do not always get to choose how others may try to treat us, but we do get to choose how we act and react back.” As Christians, we are to “love” but sometimes the best way to “love” is to distance ourselves and let be.

 

Networking, as a Lifeline for many reasons, is the focus of a discussion I had with George Dubec (of my CTP Show), and the write-up: http://tinyurl.com/GeorgeDubecOnLifelines.

 

Again, you can revisit this section for all these extras after you’re done reading – do not have to dive down these rabbit-holes now.

 

I have spoken with Devon Taylor about life and kids. See about that at the cheat URL: https://tinyurl.com/LifeKidsAnimation.

There was a time it was fashionable to argue whether All Lives Matter or not – from that came from Kevin McGary and Neil Mammen, a “Black Lives Matter” also (not alone, or over others), not exclusionary (no class of human life mattered more, or less, than others, and we are ALL one HUMAN-race) movement. MLK Jr., of course, famously spoke against separate, subregionally developed Cultures but instead of just one Human Race. Some other Cultural Marxist organizations were, and I had discussions with both of the founders of the “Every Black Life Matters” group / organization, exclusionary and separatist (URL: https://tinyurl.com/EBLMorganization).

Sadia Carone (a Professional Comedian) and I discussed the need to keep a sense of humor: https://tinyurl.com/NeedToKeepHumor.

We are all Human (frail, flawed, imperfect; hopefully, one picks up the story herein) – the question is: are we learning from the mistakes we make? That can be  seen online at / via:   tinyurl.com/LearningAndGrowingFromMistakes.

 

Other “life and living” related materials include…

Self-sufficiency?

https://tinyurl.com/SelfSufficiencyInLife.

Another important piece on how all life has value and meaning is those who may suffer from Anxiety / Depression / PTSD. Suicide-prevention month in September for the United States – https://tinyurl.com/SuicidePreventionMonthSept.

 

I often speak about the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life” and here is one piece I’ve directly made comments about (as well as having been on HODGEpod talking about) the film many do not ever consider: https://tinyurl.com/PoliticsOfPotterville as the politics there-in as well as “ChristiTutionalist^TM Politics” (CTP) show for an episode on such as well as other written articles mentioned here-in.

 

Additional Joseph M. Lenard related materials, such as me on social media (most platforms):

@JLenardDetroit.

 

Current platform for articles / blogs:

https://tinyurl.com/JLDArticles *

https://tinyurl.com/JLDonSUBSTACK

https://tinyurl.com/JLDonTLB

https://tinyurl.com/CTPgear

https://tinyurl.com/JLenardDetroitGear

* Sadly, no search engines allowed me to search only my “life” related pieces at / with BeforeItsNews (the JLDArticles shortcut location), nor does B4IN itself have a good internal search. The best way to see all the “life”- related pieces (far more than here) is to go there. I did create a piece with links to the related ones written before June 12^th, 2025 – quick / short-link: https://tinyurl.com/JLDonB4INAboutLife.

Some seem to twist their faith, to fit their political agenda, rather than their faith shaping their politics as should be; or one’s faith is clearly not so “primary” a concern in their life (detailed deep-dive on the “twisting / warping Jesus’ words” subject) – see: http://tinyurl.com/SomeTwistJesusWords.

The warping of language – “For Greater Good” (like with “It Takes A Village,” Biblical versions, not Hillary Clinton’s warped versions) and more: https://tinyurl.com/ForGreaterGood.

U.S. Constitution: 14th Amendment “…nor shall any State deprive any person of life…” Life matters! All Lives!

 

Thinking about writing / publishing your material?

 

Just curious how authors and publishers work?

Check out my “How To Write A Book And Get It Published: Hints, Tips, Techniques” book as well as free online materials at…

https://tinyurl.com/WriteAndPublishSupplement

https://tinyurl.com/WriteAndPublishSupplement2

https://tinyurl.com/WriteAndPublishSupplement3

https://tinyurl.com/WriteAndPublishSupplement4

https://tinyurl.com/JLDonAMAZON

 

Please help those in need (Pay It Forward) – see:

https://TerrorStrikes.info/charities.

 

Thank you for your interest in this book,

Joseph M. Lenard (aka: JlenardDetroit)

OK, I am going to move on now before it sounds like I am complaining rather than providing some Behind-The-Scenes (as I do in my “How to Write a Book and Get It Published: Hints, Tips, Techniques” guide). It is two very different perspectives to format a book for print versus an eBook. Zero to do with sentence structure, grammar, or proper paragraph building, just pure readability (as well as I hinted at earlier, even in print, changing expectations) flow on the smaller screens. 😊 

 

A printed book, of course, stays one static size, and the layout never changes. Still, our high-tech e-readers (well, some of them) allow dynamic screen size and dynamic flow / structural presentation changes.

 

OK, sorry, another thing regarding this INTRODUCTION section – my apologies as I’ve spent HOURS laboring over this section and it STILL does not come out with providing links all that great (things get messy / wonky when you spell out complete hyperlinks (and these are just the short-cuts, imagine the pain in the print version LOL) they do not line-wrap well if at all and can lead to some weird justified lines / sentences precede them (but here I am trying to explain again)).

 

I know there are a lot of loyal eBook fans out there, so, as authors, we want to make them available when publication time comes. But they are a real pain in the tush on our side to get them presentable to you all. Again, sorry, that sounds like another complaint – just telling it like it is. Then there is the whole audio-book question.

One last point: Most of my books come to me via a Dream. I then feel compelled to turn them into a manuscript to share that story. This one is “odd” in that it was not dreamt at all – came via re-listening to TBOK:PCD soundtrack (via Official Musical Videos JlenardDetroit YouTube saved / sharable Playlist) https://tinyurl.com/CarpeDiemOfficialPlaylist.

 

Again, this set of thoughts was also inspired by some of the songs therein. A new host of characters, with the exception (sorry, bit of a spoiler) Natasha (from TBOK:PCD), to make an appearance (which is the part that makes this quasi-sequel (but not officially, you do NOT have to read the previous books in the “life and living series” to follow and understand this as a stand-alone manuscript. Although this (“Complicated!” book) comes chronologically after TBOK:PCD, I highly recommend reading that book afterward and then returning to “A Short Story: A Lasting Legacy” if you’ve not read those. All three are available as audiobooks (so, there is that option too).

 

In a way, like TBOK:PCD and A Short Story: A Lasting Legacy (though “A Short Story” in that title is a bit of a misnomer as it is a novelette – with “Short Story” referring to life cut short), is this a Musical? If made into a stage play or a motion picture, I envision it might be.

 

A book that has a Soundtrack? Oddly enough, even more out-there will be the invocation of songs here and there to add more mood without requiring pages upon pages to set the tone – to convey the scene’s temperament and the character’s mindset (a view into their headspace). Hopefully you’ll recognize and know the songs / tunes (melodies / tracks) to which I refer (directly, others dropped in the text just casually mentioned for those that see them as kind of Easter-Eggs, hidden gems, to be discovered) in this manuscript as well as others. They are in your head as (again) musical score to parts of the reading experience.

 

Like the old Panteen Ad – tell two friends, have them tell and impact two friends, to provide the ARKs (Acts of Random Kindness, from TBOK:PCD book recurrence), so on and so forth, and pretty soon – we’ll have a movement. Hopefully, as I’m trying to ignite – a ChristiTutionalist^TM and Cultural movement (https://tinyurl.com/ChristiTutionalist). You can show you’re part of the movement by buying CTP gear: https://tinyurl.com/CTPgear.

 

I am, and forever will remain, a Christian author – but, no, not interested in trying to beat anyone over the head with  The  Bible  (that is for my podcast, LOL, kidding of course; I try to take a gentle hand there too) and wonder why there is resistance. Kill with kindness, so to speak. I want to try to persuade, not pummel into submission (as often under duress, it isn’t honest conversion or affirmation of real beliefs). AVOID being the stereotypical BIBLE THUMPER kind of person that many just want to then ignore and get away from.

 

In every life, a little rain will fall – will be a recurring theme hereinafter, as with many of my other writings. Reality. Realism. But never allowing that “Black Flag” (h/t: King’s X) to rule our lives, our focus, or legacy. Good times, bad times. Good thoughts, evil thoughts. Our lives, our minds, bounce back and forth – I try to convey that in my writing (it may not always have the nice flow you want / prefer).

 

Let me admit this particular book (with many overt and some subtly laced throughout) gives an insight into how my OCD / ADHD brain works. Often thinking in terms of other books, tunes, or even movies, seen / heard – they pop into my head all through-out days, during conversations with others, etc. A chance to share with you some of those that linger in my mind can be woven into a tale of life and living (as most musical pieces and / or movies are, with sub-parts and sub-plots comprising a broader whole).

 

Let me start to wrap things up in this introduction by adding something already mentioned (bears repeating) – this is Complicated! (yes, title, but hopefully not too complex writing, but still evoking the complexity of our lives) fare part of the “life and living series” now growing collection, loosely tied together by theme and minor cross-referencing. Again: these are not actual prequels / sequels to and from each other. Each book (Terror Strikes: Coming Soon to a City Near You [TS] (full novel), The Book Of Kennedy: Project Carpe Diem [TBOK:PCD] (novelette), A Short Story: A Lasting Legacy (novelette), and now this Complicated (novelette), set of stories easily read as stand-alone books and / or if you wish to keep reading more from / in “life and living series” in any order (in sequence released, or haphazardly out of release dates order).

 

Lastly, if you’ve read my “Is ET Really Here? A Really Short Story” exclusive Amazon (short) eBook / Kindle offering at $0.99, you know I said the story is told oddly.

 

Well, this one has a writing style much closer to traditional, but let me forewarn that there will be some odd parts – as foreshadowing use of the word loopiness (used here, Annie chapter) portends. 😊 LOL  😊 As I’ve said often on my CTP Show, we need to keep a sense of humor, and I am never afraid to interject lame puns and now some loony banter (odd verbiage, welcome to the social media age  LOL influencing our writing / speaking / reading norms).

 

I assure you – I do not do illicit drugs. I do not even smoke weed (legal in Michigan). Imagine how off things could get if this is how strange my writing delivery can be without such, if I were to write under the influence. LOL 😊

 

Seriously, I write all my books sober (no drugs or alcohol) LOL. Imagine how strange they might get if I didn’t.

 

While this book chronologically follows TBOK:PCD, if you read “Complicated!” first, TBOK:PCD makes a strong follow-up.

This INTRODUCTION and yes repeating from ACKNOWLEDGEMENT section: Also, I sure hope all are reading both this ACKNOWLEDGEMENT and the INTRODUCTION sections as they too are kind of part of the overall story in a way – essential to understand as setup for the otherwise short (novelette, or novella depending on one just counting story pages or entire manuscript sections) versus this being a whole, longer, novel) story / tale. Some concepts touched on will be expounded upon; others will only be briefly touched upon.

 

If there is something of any concern in this manuscript (sections or chapters) I want to hear from (instead, see an outreach from) you – as you can reach out to me via my website contact page: https://JosephMLenard.us/contact (and the website will send that along to me via email on your behalf).

 

I might even write an article at BeforeItsNews about your outreach (or perhaps several pieces of feedback in one online piece). Kinda like I’ve done CTP “Listener Feedback” pieces / episodes; possibly I may think the need to do a full CTP episode about Feedback from / about this book as the life and living topic discussion thereat / on).

 

Moving on, yes, too long and no doubt I’ll get some tldr⁸ (too long didn’t read, in modern social media speak) feedback.

 

If this were an episode of my ChristiTutionalist^TM podcast, I’d be breaking into my usual borrowing from Graham Norton (BBC and as carried on BBC America), the host of The Graham Norton Show: “Let’s get on with the show…”

 

Though this is not a non-fiction version of the ChristiTutionalistTM ongoing book series, let me conclude this section with…

 

Life does not always move in concert with our plans – it has its own ideas, or God’s own proposal.

 

OK, yes, finally – let’s get on with the story about Franklin (aka: Frank) and yes, a family heritage thing (not my family, his fictional family) Franklin II (the 2^nd in family lineage of namesakes)…

 

INTRODUCTION (part 2)… The far shorter version actually to appear in the Amazon Kindle version of “LOSS” (again, won’t be final title) that I scaled way back since trying to keep short Kindle exclusive size…

 

First, this is going to be a short story. I’ve been writing novelettes of late to keep book size and therefore cost down for you, the reader. This, I’m planning as just an Amazon Kindle eBook exclusive, to further keep the cost down.

 

Second, yes, this is a continuation of my https://tinyurl.com/LifeAndLivingSeries of books. Yes, that is in part why I am able to cut out these pre-sections, as they remain similar to those in the other books in this series.

 

There will not be as in prior books of this type, full-blown DEDICATIONS, INTRO.,  ACKNOWLEDGMENTS, sections (beyond this), like with my other books – instead opting to allow you to find such (if you want to read such) online FOR FREE (again, keeping this overall text (word count) down.

 

See: https://tinyurl.com/LossBookIntro.

 

Overall note of and for every single chapter is to remember that this, like TBOK:PCD, A Short Story: A Lasting Legacy, and Complicated, books (those, and now this, Rollercoasters: The Life Kind) all part of the growing set of the Joseph M Lenard “life and living series” (https://tinyurl.com/LifeAndLivingSeries)), inspired by many of the songs by various artists across many genres (all great singers / songwriters / musicians) Music Videos: (“JlenardDetroit”  videos channel): https://tinyurl.com/CarpeDiemOfficialPlaylist.

 

So, yes, in that too, like prior fare, will lean heavily into musical references to highlight the mood, expand on the tone, like a movie score.

 

Parts of the story’s plot points are repeated, like songs (whether liked or not) replaying on the radio over and over, which then elicits an emotional connection and reinforcement. In today’s society, sadly, if something isn’t on repeat, it’s often glossed over, ignored, or forgotten.

 

What will be a bit different this go ‘round?

 

While all my books are Christian in nature. This particular book will dive deeper into actual presentation of Scriptures. Still not wanting, nor meaning, to beat anyone over the head with – the stereotypically seen as BIBLE THUMPER PREACHY, but just in this shorter space (to keep your cost down) more direct references shared from within the ”Good Book” to help make the points. We are giving Free Will, how are WE choosing to engage it. Good, Bad, or with complete indifference?

 

 

FOREWORD

https://galaxy.ai/ai-book-description-generator

 

W hat happens when the ride stops?

 

*Roller coasters: The Life Kind* throws you into Rick’s world as he grapples with the sudden, devastating loss that reshapes his reality. Was it fate, or were there things he could have done differently?

 

This poignant drama explores the inevitable presence of loss in life, turning every twist and turn into a heart-wrenching examination of grief, regret, and the enduring power of memory. As Rick navigates the disorienting aftermath, he must confront his deepest fears and find a way to honor what was lost.

 

Will he find a way to keep her memory alive, or will the pain of her absence consume him?

 

Embark on this emotional journey and discover the resilience of the human spirit in the face of life’s most challenging trials.

 

GALAXY AI ALTERNATE DESCRIPTION…

 

**Dare to ride the ultimate thrill?**

 

Life is a roller coaster, but what happens when the ride screeches to a halt? Dive into the heart-wrenching story of loss, love, and the inevitable end that awaits us all.

 

Experience Rick’s world as it shatters when the vibrant Neveah is tragically taken too soon. Grappling with guilt and grief, Rick must navigate a world now devoid of the light she brought. Was their love enough? Can he find a way to honor her memory amidst the pain?

 

“Roller Coasters: The Life Kind” explores the depths of human emotion, challenging us to confront our own mortality and cherish every moment. This poignant drama will leave you breathless, questioning life’s fragility, and contemplating the legacy we leave behind.

 

**Embark on this emotional journey today.**

 

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Couple other items dropped by me (Mar/Apr 2026): 

 

Entertainment… Music… the sometimes complex and complicated interplay we have with it….

Entertainment | Apr 03 2026 00:03

 

Afterglow at the Rainbow Bridge – to all lost a furbaby – lyrics/music video

Animals-Pets | Mar 24 2026 00:39

 

The Role for Best Actress…. to whom you might not think…

Movies | Mar 22 2026 13:19

 

 

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Back Of Book (expounded):

LOSS!

It is the inevitable conclusion of life. Short or long, we are never promised tomorrow.

We must face the danger of lingering too long in any of grief’s stages — shock, denial, anger — before reaching acceptance.

But acceptance is not forgetting. No one is truly lost unless we allow them to be forgotten.
Keeping their legacy alive is our duty — our quiet, stubborn act of love — for those who pass before us.

From the Afterword: If at times the prose feels disjointed, the flow odd or uneven — congratulations.
In former IT-guy parlance, that is a feature, not a bug.
Life is that way. You got it.

Galaxy AI review of the manuscript states…

What happens when the ride stops?

*Roller coasters: The Life Kind* plumbs the depths of love and loss, daring to ask: How do we navigate life when the inevitable occurs?

Rick is about to find out. One moment, he’s arguing with his girlfriend, Nevaeh; the next, she’s gone. Vanished into a storm of his making. Now, he must confront a world without her, a world where every memory is a fresh wound.

As Rick grapples with guilt and grief, he discovers that death doesn’t end a relationship; it transforms it. But can he find a way to honor Nevaeh’s memory, or will he be forever trapped on a ride with no escape?

Prepare for a raw, emotional journey that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about life, love, and the courage it takes to keep going.

Start reading *Roller coasters: The Life Kind* today.