Brian C. Coad Knihy

Set against the backdrop of Cornwall and its renowned hard rock mines, this collection features five stories that explore both local and global themes. The narratives delve into the lives of individuals connected to these mines, reflecting on their experiences and the broader implications of their work. Each tale offers a unique perspective on the rich heritage and future of Cornish mining culture, blending elements of history and imagination.

In principle, Patent Attorneys lead desk-bound, uneventful lives, but Wally Mason, P.A. to General Business, Inc., experiences a remarkable year of physical adventure.Wally's year begins when Corporate President Noonan sends him to London to help Patrick O'Neill turn the Chinese Script patents of Charlie Chung into a billion dollars of new business.An individual from the Anti-Terrorist Squad interrupts O'Neill's presentation, saying a bomb threat has been received. He clears the auditorium. He asks Wally to help with inquiries. Wally agrees.Presently, Wally is upbraided as an ingrate by a British Lord, is kidnapped by Chinese elements, and is admonished by them for the theft of their Chinese Script.Escaping to America, Wally discovers that he has played patsy in a scheme that might be the envy of any modern Corporate Executive, indicted or unindicted.Wally eases hurt by overwork on the new invention disclosures on his desk. He travels the Corporate Divisions to stimulate technological creativity. His duties include a wild horseback ride into a desert canyon to meet the genetic engineer, Dr. P. O'Shea.A severe recession occurs. Wally is downsized. Luckily FitzHozell, a neighbor of his, manages to rescue him.

The narrative centers around the enigmatic figure known as the Crimson Lady, delving into her identity and the secrets surrounding her. As the story unfolds, characters are drawn into a web of intrigue and suspense, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for truth. The plot weaves together elements of mystery and romance, inviting readers to uncover the layers of the Crimson Lady's past and her impact on those around her.

Set in mid-twentieth century China, the story follows Wu Nung Lai, who embarks on a quest for spiritual enlightenment after a transformative experience during an industrial accident. Despite being demoted, he finds support from his mentor, Professor Hsiang-Nu, and a dedicated student, Liang, as he navigates his new role as an instructor at Chienhsi University. The narrative explores themes of faith, personal growth, and the intersection of ordinary lives with extraordinary experiences.

Five murders have been committed, one every April Fool's Day. Ashley Gable didn't give any thought to the murders until the fifth was committed. The first four victims were random, but the last was her boyfriend. Was his murder just a random occurrence? It doesn't seem so when Ashley's sister, Calli, is murdered on the sixth April Fool's Day. But the killer didn't stop there. Ashley is stabbed and left for dead, but she lives knowing that the killer will strike again. One year has passed quickly and Ashley starts to receive menacing notes while at school. She knows the killer means to finish what was started last year. In time, she is confronted by the killer dressed in a jester costume and wielding a sharp dagger. Ashley survives the encounter, but meets the killer again over the course of the school day. With each confrontation, however, Ashley manages to remain alive. But one of her closest friends ends up dying along the way. This drives Ashley to want to know who the April Fool's Day killer is, and the motive behind the yearly madness. But when Ashley finally discovers the identity of the killer, she also learns what the real April Fool's Day joke really is. Will she survive long enough to be able to recover if at all?!