Dolores Esteban

Brother Lawrence, former Knight Templar, confesses his sins to Abbot Casper. Monastery of La Charité-sur-Loire, France. Anno Domini 1350. Reviews: Title: Confiteor (I Confess) Reviewer: alertbay Nicely done. You set the mood beautifully. And it's only too bad that the King didn't go down with something remotely resembling the anguish he visited on De Molay and the Templars. Bestj　 Title: Confiteor (I Confess) Reviewer: David McLeod Absolutely stunning! It's not just the author's use of familiar historical settings and themes that permits the suspension of disbelief, it's her careful crafting of the story and creation of the characters that draws one into--in this case--a monastic cell and the soul of its occupant.

Offence Against the Person Act 1828, Section 16. Ethan Lawrence was arrested. Harold Alcott and Jeffrey Chandler, lawyers, adopt the case. London, 1829.

For Whatever Reasons by Dolores Esteban 　 　　 "Every person convicted of the abominable crime of Buggery either with Mankind or with any Animal, shall suffer death as a Felon." Offences Against the Person Act 1828, Section 16. England 　 　 London, April 1829. I returned home late and found Harold sitting at his desk. "What has happened?" I asked. He turned to me, wiping his eyes. "A serious case, Jeffrey. A certain James Lawrence came to see me. The man was desperate

On Thursday afternoon, 6th of May 1820, Count Henry Mortimer leaves the mansion to go for a boat trip. A few hours later, his body is found, floating on the water of the lake. A tragic accident? The ongoing events give rise to doubt. There are four persons and four reasons for a murder.

Till Death Do Us Part A Play in Five Acts by Dolores Esteban TABLE OF CONTENTS THE PERSONS OF THE PLAY Ophelia, Countess Mortimer, spouse of the deceased Count Henry Mortimer Joanna, Ophelia’s maid Earl Edward Lawrence, intimate friend of the deceased Robert Anderson, private tutor, teaching the sons of Count Mortimer’s widowed sister-in-law, who live in the same house; same age as Earl Edward Lawrence

Jonathan Summers, a newly published author, finds himself getting involved in some kind of deadly email game with an anonymous stranger. Reviews: Title: Chapter 3 Reviewer: David McLeod The heart-stopping emotions are heightened by the literary references and the impeccable craft of Dolores Esteban's writing. I fear that rather than simply a spinning wheel, Jonathan will find himself on a larger wheel. Title: Chapter 10 Reviewer: Timmy This story was an enjoyable read. Unexpected ending though.lol. Title: Chapter 10 Reviewer: Nephylim Motto.... always be nice to your editor .... but sometimes making a mistake leads to the right conclusion in the end. Fab story. I was enchanted. Title: Chapter 1 Reviewer: Hoskins This is a lot of fun. I'm a little worried- there's not much time left. This is a cool story. Title: Chapter 6 Reviewer: Nephylim I'm loving it. I like your interpretation of the tarot. It is a love of mine. I have many packs and I love the subtleties of meaning that vary among them. This is a great story Title: Chapter 2 Reviewer: David McLeod A brilliant merging of the ancient Tarot with modern biological terrorism. With 21 cards in the major arcana, plus the Fool, we're in for quite a ride! Title: Chapter 1 Reviewer: hh5 Gosh to get wrapped up with a crazy guy. There are movies like that but none that are gay. Well maybe Chad Allen but I never watch his movies. This seems to be some thriller mystery. Just don't scare me with Alfred Hitchcockisms. Title: Chapter 2 Reviewer: Nephylim Very nice. I loved the twist at the end and The Hanged Man is a great one to stary with... it certainly got Johnathan looking at things in a different way. Can't wait to see what you make of the Devil.

Absolute Zero (22 Hours from Now) by Dolores Esteban 　 Jonathan Summer’s eyes beamed with joy as he stood and shook hands with James Cutterfield. "Well done, Jonathan. The book reading was a big success. Several of the girls had tears in their eyes. They have a crush on you." James Cutterfield laughed loudly at his joke. A good joke, so he thought. Jonathan blushed slightly. He ignored James’ remark. "James, I prefer to think that my book moved their hearts. But,

Jonathan Summers, a newly published author, finds himself getting involved in some kind of deadly email game with an anonymous stranger.

The Guardian (Keeper of the Truth) by Dolores Esteban 　 　 01 - Intro The earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and a spirit of anticipation was hovering over the waters. Our spaceship arrived 65 million years B.C. We had crossed the universe in hope of finding a new world to live in. We were on a mission. 350 men had been sent to an inhospitable planet. Planet X, later called Earth, was a target picked by our experts. The planet’s locati

An ancient civilization terraformed Earth. The civilization is long gone, but the ancient knowledge is secretly passed on from generation to generation. In 1590, George Hunter, initiated by Master Edward, becomes one of the twelve guardians who form the grand council. George flees England in company of Jonathan Britten. They are lured into a trap. A man has disappeared, a precious object was stolen, and George and Jonathan are chased. The ancient knowledge is about to be misused.

Edmond. Loved, despised, and betrayed. An autobiography. (Setting: Besançon, France. Early 19th century.) Reviews: Title: Chapter 1 Reviewer: thatboyChase It was like a fine meal, to me. Starting off with something to test the pallet, then as the sommelier to offer a bit of zest, bam. Enjoyable, the ending was welcomed and I felt I was being educated as well as imersed in this historical back drop. Awesome. That is for the whole story, mind. I am also super impressed at the speed you pressed this out. Title: Chapter 8 Revieweer: Nephylim I am glad it all turned out alright in the end. This was a charming story well told. There were enough touches in it to make the setting... time and station seem real and the characters were well rounded even though the whole thing was all too brief. Title: Chapter 3 Reviewer: David McLeod What could have been a simple narrative description of past affairs and a brilliant man's descent into near madness has been written in a way that evokes thoughts of "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?": as snappy dialogue full of nasty emotions. Title: Chapter 2 Reviewer: David McLeod In a manner somewhat different from previous of her works (the ones I've read), Dolores shows us how to write to instill deep emotions in our readers: fear was there; anger, to be sure; lust, portrayed with sensibility. And now, foreboding and suspense. A superb chapter. Title: Chapter 4 Reviewer: Nephylim Wow. The writing style is delicate even when they are fighting, very in keeping with the period and the life station of Edmond. I like the way they speak, the way they think and there are many contrasts which add depth and flavour to the writing. I am entrances Madame. looking forward to more. Title: Chapter 1 Reviewer: David McLeod An intense begining to what will no doubt prove to be another superb story. The shame, and the sense of betrayal can, one might hope, lead to a triupmh of the will and of the spirit. Dolores' pragmatism and realism, however, can lead one in many directions. Title: Chapter 1 Reviewer: taina1959 Oh I am also liking Robert. He sounds like a lost soul in need of a rescuer and Edmond is it. Now I wonder if Edmond will be taking Robert to Napoleon's coronation. Title: Chapter 2 Reviewer: Nephylim A very interesting beginning. I am intrigued. And I have to admit that the character I am most drawn to at this point is Robert. I can't wait to find out more about his story. Title: Chapter 1 Reviewerer: thatboychase It is short enough not to get lost, which is a good thing. I could compare it to that brisk wind that happens to find you during 90 degree weather, refreshing, crisp. The lavish, tragic frame is set and I await the brush strokes on the canvas, Dolores. That sounded like a David McLeod review, what is he doing to me.

Edmond. Loved, despised, and betrayed. An autobiography. (Setting: Besançon, France. Early 19th century.)

Edmond by Dolores Esteban 　 Dedicated to I. 　 　 　 Besançon, France, November 1804. He walked into my room and caught me in the act. I didn’t know how he had gotten into the house. It was not the first time he had entered it without being invited. I lived there with my mother and only a few servants. He found a way to sneak into the house. He knew it well from his previous stay a few years ago, when we had been intimate friends. I was sure to be alone in the house. T

Adrian, Frederic, Basil and Ashley leave for London in spring 1816. They make a stop at Sir Donald’s house near Dover. Sir Donald reveals a bitter truth to them that alters Adrian and Frederic’s plans. Adrian’s brother Gregory is seeking revenge. Adrian wants to avoid an encounter. Yet, the inevitable happens. Adrian has to face his brother and is confronted with Gregory’s hate and contempt. Reviews: Title: Chapter 5 - Moments of Truth Reviewer: David McLeod Can someone know about another person a truth that conflicts with his own morality, but not condemn that person? Can a person stop living a delusion that has become an integral part of his life? Can an entire family do so? Dolores Esteban integrates her love of history with the magical powers of imagination to address these questions in a setting that evokes emotions ranging from horror to joy, from hatred to love. This chapter is an outstanding end to an excellent story. Title: Chapter 4 - Evil Revelations Reviewer: David McLeod Compulsively readable and wonderfully wicked! Dolores leads us brilliantly through the twists and turns of human emotion. If you want to read "outside the box," this is the story for you. Title: Chapter 3 - Enjoy the Sunset Reviewer: David McLeod How can one "enjoy the sunset" when each night and day brings nightmares, both figurative and literal? The pain of rejection contrasts with the joy of understanding, and it all falls within a historical setting that is spell binding. Who but Dolores Esteban could make the Inns of Court so real to a 21st century reader? Title: Chapter 1 - A Bitter Truth Reviewer: davey chase I thought this was a good opening chapter because the reader gets the first taste of the character's normal world while at the same time getting a sense of the tension and a hint of forboding. Title: Chapter 2 - Brothers Reviewer: David McLeod The story is both imaginative and intriguing; the characterization is deft; the atmosphere is strong; and the suspense is sharp. Dolores never grapples with anything less than the greatest questions. Title: Chapter 1 - A Bitter Truth Reviewer: David McLeod Dolores stirs our hearts with a wide range of emotions, and reminds us once again that there is nothing new under the sun. We saw history unfolding at the Congress of Vienna in "Case Dismissed." Here, those familiar characters continue to walk through history: the Year without a Summer, a new-fangled steamboat on the River Seine. All this combined to create a reality that must be experienced. Brava!

Adrian Wesley and Frederic Richard meet at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. The Congress of Vienna was an international conference that was called to remake Europe and other parts of the world after the downfall of Napoleon. It takes a lot of courage to live in a time when sodomy was still a crime, punished with death penalty or prison and hard labour. The story is told from Frederic’s point of view. Reviews: Title: Chapter 9 - Wesley & Richard Reviewer: David McLeod A very satisfying end to an excellent story. The words, "case dismissed" are, I suspect, equivalent to "and they lived happily ever after." On the other hand, Dolores has created some powerful characters who reside in an important city, at a crossroads of time. Perhaps we will see more of Adrian and Wesley. Title: Chapter 8 - Illegal Activities Reviewer: David McLeod The more things change, the more they stay the same. The realpolitik of the Conference is balanced by the realization that greed and cupidity operate at the micro level as well as at the international level. The police commissioner of Vienna is certainly no choir boy! Title: Chapter 7 - Action Required Reviewer: David McLeod Another fascinating chapter--and another mystery. I wish world history classes had been as interesting and well presented. The interaction of the author's fictional characters with great names and events of history makes all the difference. Title: Chapter 6 - Stirred Emotions Reviewer: David McLeod A mystery is introduced and solved; we learn more of Richard's character; and the historical context is expanded. A very satisfying chapter. Brilliant use of historical events. Title: Chapter 2 - Caught in the Act Reviewer: David McLeod Devil or devil's advocate? Quicksand or still waters? Heaven or Hell? The questions increase as the plot develops. This is wonderful! Title: Chapter 1 - A Heated Approach Reviewer: David McLeod "The essence of story-telling is drama; the essence of drama, tension." Whoever said that must have had this story in mind. Frederic's personal daemons, the background of the Conference, the constant risk of discovery, the uncertainties: I was shivering either in fear or relief from scene to scene. Well done. Title: Chapter 1 - A Heated Approach Reviewer: EmulatedLove You've done a fantastic job here Dolores. I absolutely love the premise, setting and the originality of the characters. I eagerly await the next chapter. Title: Chapter 1 - A Heated Approach Reviewer: davey chase Pretty good. An interesting start that raises questions and leaves them unanswered, giving the reader a desire to continue on. Title: Chapter 1 - A Heated Approach Reviewer: David McLeod A very astute blend of fact and fantasy. The historical setting lends a touch of reality that grounds and makes believable the underlying story--which likely will become the most important part of this story. Nicely constructed and crafted.

The story of Peter Abelard’s affair with and love for Heloise has become legendary. But why did Heloise deny the marriage? Why did she go to the convent of Argenteuil at Peter Abelard's urging? Gilles de Cyenville is fascinated by Abelard and Abelard’s writings. He seeks to speak to Peter Abelard who lives in the Abbey of Saint-Denis. Gilles de Cyenville uncovers the truth. France, 1118. Reviews: Title: Peter Abelard (A Man's Turmoil) Reviewer: David McLeod Both moving and meaningful, this story challenges us to look deeply, to contemplate, to learn, to resolve. Yet the story is told so beautifully that it draws us gently to those tasks, without coercion. It is, without doubt, destined to become a classic. Title: Peter Abelard (A Man's Turmoil) Reviewer: thatboyChase One word: gnarly. Second adjective definition. The good kind. Title: Peter Abelard (A Man's Turmoil) Reviewer: Hoskins Your stories are always great. They make me think. I think you really hit the "tone" of the story here, I could see the conversations between Peter and Gillies and Timothy. Thanks for sharing it.

　 Peter Abelard (A Man’s Turmoil) 　by 　Dolores Esteban 　 　 　 France, 1118. Gilles de Cyenville dismounted his horse. He sighed and he straightened briefly. Ignoring his aching back, he made a few steps towards the wooden door of the abbey. The door was closed. Gilles looked at the gate. He was suddenly hesitating. A man in his forties and with eloquent manners, Gilles de Cyenville suddenly felt very awkward. He took his leather gloves off and he wiped his forehead. Gilles had b

The story of Peter Abelard’s affair with and love for Heloise has become legendary. But why did Heloise deny the marriage? Why did she go to the convent of Argenteuil at Peter Abelard's urging? Gilles de Cyenville is fascinated by Abelard and Abelard’s writings. He seeks to speak to Peter Abelard who lives in the Abbey of Saint-Denis. Gilles de Cyenville uncovers the truth. France, 1118.

Jeremy is torn between two lovers. Eric listens to his story.

Listen To Your Heartby Dolores Esteban The dinner I had been invited to on Saturday evening had been a nuisance. When I awoke on Sunday morning, I still felt angry. With a frown, I looked out of the window. I decided to go for a walk. I needed to sort things out. Wrapped in a thick coat, I left the house. The weather was bad. It was cold and foggy. It was raining slightly. Autumn. I walked down the streets of Paris. Many of the buildings were old and needed mending or paint

A hurt man recalls the past. Will he find peace of mind?

Total Recallby Dolores Esteban I turned my head to him slightly. I looked into his eyes. His dark brown eyes drew me in. And so did his voice. He spoke to me almost gently. I relaxed on the divan. My head sank deeper into the cushions. I felt comfortable. His voice soothed my mind. My disquieting thoughts disappeared. I almost drifted to sleep. I felt comfortably numb. ~~**~~ I opened my eyes. I yawned. I turned my head to him slightly.

Winter Roseby Dolores Esteban "We are food for worms, lads. Believe it or not, each and every one of us in this room is one day going to stop breathing, turn cold, and die. That’s what it’s all about,” Master Edward said angrily when fourteen-year-old George had tried in vain to translate and interpret a sentence from a poem by Horace. “Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero!” Master Edward continued repeating in a loud and accentuated voice while pacing the classroom and point

As long as you live, shine; / Let nothing grieve you beyond measure. / For your life is short, / and time will claim its toll (Seikilos) Make the most of current opportunities because life is short and time is fleeting.It's not always easy for George to seize the day.

Lord Mortimer lost his memory. What happened? Inspector Graves investigates.