Superfood $upply Changes in the Spring Air--Time to Stock Up

The Ripple Effects of 

U.S. Environmental Policy Cuts

By Cal Orey, M.A.

Did you know the key to long life and vibrant health can be found on the shelves of your local supermarket?

*Local honey may be a budget-buy while maple syrup is going to be pricey due to trade wars. The Healing Powers of Honey...-SPRING DEAL on Amazon! #2 Best Seller"

These spring-ish superfoods, from the top ranked Mediterranean Diet, are perfect picks for spring, a time for renewal, energizing, and dumping unwanted winter weight.  Read on and find out how these nature’s finest picks can be super for you this spring season—and how climate change may affect its quantity and quality for you and yours. But note, trade wars will indeed affect the higher cost of your favorite superfoods--chocolate, coffee, maple syrup, nuts, and fresh fare. (You can stock up on these superfoods. Buy local and/or find super online sales; most have a long shelf life.)

EGGS: A NUTRIENT POWERHOUSE FOR SPRING: Chicken eggs (cage-free eggs are recommended by health experts for both the chicken and human!) provide a mere 155 calories and 12 grams of protein.  

Spring Treat: In spring, when many people focus on rejuvenating their diets after winter, eggs (one or two is fine) can provide a nutritious boost. Try adding eggs into a spring vegetable frittata with fresh asparagus, spinach, and herbs like chives or parsley to celebrate the season’s bounty.

Climate Change: Eggs: Their productions are impacted by climate change, which affects poultry farming practices and feed availability.

MAPLE SYRUP: A NATURAL SWEETNER WITH BENEFITS: Premium antioxidant-rich maple syrup is getting more recognition for its nutritional benefits. Maple syrup is better for you than brown sugar because of its antioxidants and minerals such as manganese and zinc, which aren’t found in brown sugar. 

Spring Treat: Use pure maple syrup as a topping for whole grain pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal with fresh spring fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a wholesome breakfast.

Climate Change: Maple Syrup: Production relies on the sap of sugar maple trees, which is sensitive to temperature changes; as global temperatures rise, the timing and quantity of sap flow can be disrupted, affected syrup yields.

PIZZA WITH ANTIOXIDANT-RICH TOMATOES: Yes, a slice of pizza can be super nutritious—as long as you include vegetables like vitamin-rich tomatoes. The crust—if whole grain and thin—gives you lots of energy and a dose of filling fiber. Choose superfood cheeses (in moderation) such as goat cheese or feta, which provide you extra protein benefits.

Spring Treat:  Create a colorful veggie pizza with fresh basil, tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, and a drizzle of olive oil to celebrate the flavors of spring while enjoying a balanced meal.

Climate Change: A warm-weather crop that thrives in specific climate conditions; changes to temperature and precipitation patters due to climate change can affect tomato growth cycles and yields.

TEA: HYDRATION AND ANTIOXIDANTS: Spring is often linked to renewal and hydration. The heart-healthy antioxidants, when paired with caffeine, can be a good way to stay hydrated while boosting your metabolism, which can end up in weight loss. The warming effect of tea can also be comforting during up and down spring temperatures.

Spring Treat: Brew a refreshing iced herbal tea infused with mint or lemon to enjoy on warmer days while reaping its health perks.

Climate Change: Tea: Climate change negatively impact tea production by causing unpredictable rainfall; increased droughts, and temperature fluctuation that reduce yields and affect the quality of leaves. 

These foods are all great choices for health during the vibrant season of spring—that align well with renewal and vitality during this time of year. But note, if environmental cuts happen these superfoods will be endangered and their quality and quantity will not be super.

IMPACT OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL CUTS ON FOOD CHAIN

The U.S. administration’s cuts to environmental programs could negatively impact the quality and quantity of superfoods like tea, tomatoes, maple syrup and eggs--across the West Coast and Southern Sates due to reduced support for water management, pest control, soil health initiatives, climate monitoring, animal welfare standards, and biosecurity measures.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and a sci-fi trilogy--The Ghost Ships.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com 

Time-Traveling Tabby New Book Lands in The Californer and #1 New Release in Pet Cats!

 The Californer

Gatsby, the fictional feline narrator, showcases life lessons of adaptability, his sixth sense of sensing a cosmic event, love and loss, and acceptance.

LOS ANGELES - Californer -- "Creative and celebrated author Cal Orey has compiled a work of poetry, vision, and transcendental life philosophy, encompassing captivating photographs of Gatsby, her orange tabby cat with whom changed her life in, 
Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time."

~ Pacific Book Review

Acclaimed author Cal Orey is back with the highly anticipated second installment in the Time-Traveling Tabby series. "TIME-TRAVELING TABBY: A JOURNEY THROUGH WHISKERS AND TIME – Book 2" takes readers on another heart-pounding adventure, blending history, fantasy, and feline intuition in an unforgettable tale.

How can a cat travel through time?  That is the essence of this sci-fi fantasy theme, which showcases the wisdom and sensory perceptions of this amazing feline. We all know how extraordinary cats are, being known to predict earthquakes and other events; Gatsby will steal readers' hearts.

The story is heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of the sci-fi fantasy genre, with a unique twist of having a feline narrator who travels through time and experiences the world in a way that is both familiar and strange. The cat's journey and his owner's stories about her past cats create a sense of nostalgia and high-tech wonder. The story's use of time travel and the cat's intuitive abilities adds a layer of sci-fi/fantasy that makes the narrative engaging and mesmerizing.

"TIME-TRAVELING TABBY: A JOURNEY THROUGH WHISKERS AND TIME – Book 2" is perfect for readers who love historical fiction, magical realism, and, of course, feline-inspired adventures. Whether you're a returning fan or new to the series, this book will whisk you away on an exhilarating ride through time.

Available now on Amazon as well as the author's website: www.calorey.com

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Time-Traveling Tabby
Subtitle: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time
Subtitle: Paws, Claws, and Quantum Laws: Feline Odyssey Through Dimensions!
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 979-8823041171
Pages: 54
Genre: Poetry / Feline Fantasy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor's degree and master's degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws. (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and an electrifying co-authored sci-fi-/fantasy trilogy--The Ghost Ships. Her website is www.calorey.com

Contact
Pacific Book Review
***@pacificbookreview.com

The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices Gift Book--for Spring Season

 Key To Vibrant Health For All Generations Is In Your Kitchen . . .

Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more — for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illnesses.

The latest research reveals that the seasonings already in your pantry — or easily found fresh in your supermarket or garden — can lower your risk for cancer, heart disease, and obesity.

This A-to-Z guide catalogs the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.

In the pages of The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices you will discover how you can naturally:

• Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism — at any age!
• Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
• Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
• Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects — and trigger feel-good endorphins — using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
• Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.

With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide for embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of mouthwatering aroma and deliciousness!

Here are just a few of the herb-a-licious recipes:

Cinnamon Rolls with Allspice Glaze

These easy-to-make rolls are guaranteed to please anyone with a sweet tooth. This version is sweet and spicy, Serve warm with tea. It’s a gift from nature’s herbal garden.

 

---

Couscous with Apricots and Toasted Cumin

This recipe is worth dishing up — it brings you the exotic tastes of the East. The mixture of herbs and spices, plus a dash of honey and lemon, are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

 

---

Shrimp with Wild Rice Cakes and Roasted Pepper-Dill Aioli

Bright and fresh, this recipe is the perfect complement to a summer night. A mix of dill, mustard, and garlic creates a complex but light flavor profile that pairs great with a crisp white wine.

 

---

Herby Tostadas with Cilantro Sauce

Packed with crunch and zesty cilantro sauce with a spicy flavor and healthful kick, this quick and satisfying dish is ready in a snap and is perfect for an outdoor meal.

 

---

And so much more! (Click to order Gift Book)

Get all of these revitalizing recipes and improve your health the delicious way when you take advantage of our special offer.

Normally this NEW book retails for $16.95, and it’s a steal at that price, BUT . . .

Through this exclusive direct-from-the-publisher offer, you won’t pay a dime for the book. All we ask is that you cover $4.95 shipping and handling.

Time-Traveling Tabby - PACIFIC BOOK REVIEW: GATSY WILL STEAL READERS' HEARTS

 Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time – Book 2

BY CAL OREY

Read Pacific Book Review

Time-Traveling Tabby – Book 2

Title: Time-Traveling Tabby
Subtitle: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time
Subtitle: Paws, Claws, and Quantum Laws: Feline Odyssey Through Dimensions!
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 979-8823041171
Pages: 54
Genre: Poetry / Feline Fantasy

Reviewer: Beth Adams

Read Book Review

Creative and celebrated author Cal Orey has compiled a work of poetry, vision, and transcendental life philosophy, encompassing captivating photographs of Gatsby, her orange tabby cat with whom changed her life in, Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time. How can a cat travel through time?  That is the essence of this sci-fi fantasy theme, which showcases the wisdom and sensory perceptions of this amazing feline. We all know how extraordinary cats are, being known to predict earthquakes and other events; Gatsby will steal readers’ hearts.

 What struck me through paging this truly unique book is – love.  Only a bond beyond ordinary, between two souls, one human and one feline, can create such emotions, and only through the wordsmithing of Cal Orey can a book such as this be comprised with such heart-felt realizations articulated so beautifully.  The preponderance of photographs showcasing Gatsby lying down next to a clock displaying various times irks one’s imagination as to the meaning of such images. The natural mane of the cat’s forehead has a symbol reminiscent of the letter “M” – mysteriously spurring curiosity in the readers – does it stand for “Meow?”

A bedtime storybook indeed, or better yet a traveling companion, allowing it to be opened and stared at the depth of the pictures and words as if looking up at the star-filled sky at night. This book is a treasure for any personal library or gift.

buy on amazon

Visit Author’s Website

Children's & Young Adult, Fiction, Latest Reviews, Poetry

The Healing Powers of Superfoods--Based on the Top Mediterranean Diet

 Courtesy Cal Orey

The Secret to a Long, Healthy Life Is Sitting on Your Grocery Shelf Berries, eggs, fish, butter… one minute they’re good for you, and the next they’re not. Food fads make it challenging to know what’s truly healthy. Eat it, or don’t eat it? End the confusion once and for all with The Healing Powers of Superfoods. Inside this 316-page bible of superfoods, you’ll find the top 20 most nutrient-dense foods that are delicious and easy to find at your favorite supermarket, making healthy eating a breeze. Plus, they’re just what you need to strengthen your immunity for flu season. These superfoods deliver big health benefits to help you: Boost your immune system Support a healthy heart, bones, and brain Maintain healthy blood sugar Power up your energy Promote healthy vision Ease anxiety and stress Written by Cal Orey, author of the bestselling The Healing Powers of Chocolate, this blockbuster new book is based on the latest scientific studies showing dozens of surprising superfoods and juices you never knew could help you get healthy and stay healthy — even cheese, chocolate, and ice cream! Here’s a sneak peek at what’s waiting for you inside your FREE copy of The Healing Powers of Superfoods: Tired, fatigued, and need energy? Eat this once-forbidden sweet treat turned superfood — it gives you the added benefit of boosting brainpower. (Page 63) Lower your risk of cancer and heart disease with pizza! Italian researchers found the secret in the sauce. (Page 92) See cholesterol levels you can love at your next checkup. Eat more of this family favorite which also helps you stay trim and feel calm. (Page 97) Lower your blood pressure, stave off colds and flu, AND lose weight with… potatoes? That’s right! Discover which 2 “super spuds” are best. (Page 104) Flatten your belly and banish bloat fast with watermelon — a natural diuretic! Try the quick Melon Salad. (Page 135) You get 50+ delicious, nutritious recipes for everything from Pesto Pizza, Dark Chocolate Gelato, and Cheesy Quiche to ricotta-rich Cannelloni steeped in garlic and herbs. PLUS: 50 home remedies you can zip together in your kitchen for everything from clogged arteries to kidney stones, infections, and other health concerns. Top 10 “skinny superfoods” scientifically shown to fill you up, not out — and they taste great! Plus, get the 5 simple rules for losing weight like a champ. Perfectly pampering beautifying recipes for shiny, healthy hair, glowing skin, soft elbows, feet, and more. End the confusion of what is a superfood and what is not… what you should or shouldn’t eat for vibrant health and a long life. Turn your body into a fortress of good health with The Healing Powers of Superfoods. Claim Your FREE COPY Here

Time-Traveling Tabby--Amazon Best Seller in Hot New Releases in March 2025

 Paws Through Time

 Earth Changes (March Oracle Visionary Magazine)

By Cal Orey

Time-Traveling Tabby
Paws, Claws, and Quantum Laws: Feline Odyssey Through Dimensions!

In a world where seismic and cosmic events reshape the Earth and alter the fabric of time, an underappreciated cat becomes an unexpected bridge between past and present. As its new owner and cat experience the complexities of time travel, the feline’s heightened senses alert her to impending Earth changes that could redefine their existence. Together they forge a bond, revealing tales of feline companionship while facing the mysteries of the Universe…

In the short story Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time, a scribe navigates a complex time-based landscape, and her newly adopted cat becomes a conduit to the past, revealing tales of feline companions from bygone eras. With its keen senses, the cat alerts its owner to an impending celestial event, forging a bond between them that transcends time and space. As the feline peeks into a future time loop in 2032 (impacts of climate change and extreme weather events), it must trust its instincts in order to confirm a calm future. [PAWS ACROSS TIME: ORACLE VISIONARY MARCH 2025, PAGES 18-19--Oracle Visionary | Oracle Visionary March 2025 | MagCloud]  

The tale revolves around a young orange tabby cat adopted by a seasoned prose weaver who takes “Gatsby” on a journey through time, visiting the 70s, 80s, 90s, and the 21st century, and eventually, the future. The feline narrator tells the saga of adventures, which are deeply connected to his owner’s past experiences and the stories she shares with him about her previous cats. As the cat listens to these feline tales, he feels a strong desire to prove himself and fill the paws of the scribes’ past adopted cats who endured Earth changes through decades in the U.S.:

• 1970s:  In 1975, on the island of Hawaii (Big Island), the Kilauea volcano erupted, causing geological changes.

• 1980s: The eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington State in 1980 caused widespread destruction and ash fallout.

• 1990s: Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in 2005, leading to catastrophic flooding and a humanitarian crisis.

• 1999: Y2K concerns over potential computer system failures at the turn of the millennium led to widespread preparations that fizzled with minimal disruption.

The Cat’s Journey and Sci-Fi/Fantasy Elements

As Gatsby time travels with his owner, he develops a keen intuition that allows him to sense an imminent earthquake, which he warns his owner about by scratching at the closet door for two days before the BIG event changes his life. The act of courage and loyalty wins over his owner’s heart, and she begins to appreciate the great Sir Gatsby’s wonderful listening skills and the special bond they share. The cat’s ability to sense the earthquake and his journey through time with his owner are the key sci-fi elements in the story, showcasing his uncanny powers and the unique connection he has with his owner. The cat’s experiences and the stories this owner tells him about her past felines who survived earth changing events, creates a rich and immersive narrative that explores the themes of time travel, intuition, and the human-animal bond. 

Take a peek at an excerpt from the Time-Traveling Tabby:

THE SHAKE-UP - Time's Tectonic Shift

Then, BAM! seismic waves shook my senses for two days…

The sensitive woman noticed my odd scratching the closet door;

I saw flocks of birds fly away from rumbling to come,

An earthquake imminent; shaking and rolling floor—and MORE!

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Themes

The story is heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of the sci-fi fantasy genre, with a unique twist of having a feline narrator who travels through time and experiences the world in a way that is both familiar and strange. The cat’s journey and his owner’s stories about her past cats create a sense of nostalgia and high-tech wonder, highlighting the idea that animals can possess a deep understanding of the world and the people around them. The story’s use of time travel and the cat’s intuitive abilities adds a layer of sci-fi/fantasy that makes the narrative engaging and mesmerizing.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws. (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and an electrifying co-authored sci-fi-/fantasy trilogy--The Ghost Ships. Her website is www.calorey.com

Time-Traveling Tabby (Tahoe Daily Tribune)

 Healing hearts: overcoming the pain of pet loss

Tahoe author’s new book blooms from a past broken heart

News | Mar 18, 2025

Cal Orey, M.A.

Last spring on the South Shore, I experienced a shocking bout of “broken heart syndrome,” or takotsbupo cardiomyopathy, a temporary condition triggered by severe emotional stress, like losing a beloved pet. This condition weakens the heart muscle, mimicking heart attack symptoms and is more common in women facing intense grief from loss.

What’s more, scientific research shows the emotional pain from losing a love connection can trigger physiological responses in the body, potentially leading to increased troponin (a cardiac marker) due to stress on the heart. And this happened to me during the downfall of my senior Siamese cat, Zen.

But I knew adopting a new pet helps heal your heart! Welcoming a companion animal into your life can provide companionship and joy, helping to fill the emotional loss left by the deceased pet. This act can foster healing by creating new memories while honoring the bond with the lost pet. And this is why I penned Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time…

Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE A SCI-FI/FANTASY BOOK CATEGORIZED IN ANIMAL FICTION AND CATS?

A: A big young fluffy orange tabby cat was my muse.  Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time features my new feline. Fate brought us together. When my beloved cat passed, I searched for a dog-loving, chill pet. I adopted Sacramento-based Gatsby—interviewee 202. The narrative explores the journey of the new feline as it struggles to fill the void left by its predecessor(s) while also establishing its own identity with its new owner—a scribe.

Q: YOU’VE HAD CAT COMPANIONS IN THE PAST YEARS AT TAHOE. WHY DID YOU USE A SCI-FI-ISH TECHNIQUE TO TELL THE TALE?

A: My roots to South Lake Tahoe and felines go back decades. Using a cat as the narrator and giving him the ability to sense a paranormal happening fall into the sci-fi/fantasy genre.

Q: IN TIME-TRAVELING TABBY, WHAT EVENT CHANGE BOTH THE CAT AND HIS NEW OWNER’S CONNECTION?

A: I don’t want to dish a story spoiler, but I will tell you the BIG imminent earthshaker comes from a real happening on the South Shore; it inspired me to write this tale of sixth sense, courage, loyalty, and love. The end result: As a devout cat lover, I value the human-animal bond which is healing for the mind and body.

Q:  DID YOUR NEW ORANGE TABBY HELP HEAL YOUR HEART?

A: I was on a quest to find a feline companion to help nurse my lovesickness. Yes, Gatsby accomplished the feat of filling big paws; but Zen will always have a place in my heart. And indeed, adopting a pet is the Rx doctors should order for broken heart syndrome.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and a sci-fi trilogy–The Ghost Ships.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is http://www.calorey.comHealthy Tahoe

Pacific Book Review: Reminiscent of Star Trek and The Orville--Nail Biting Action

 The Ghost Ships: Journey into The Void: A Thrilling Sci-Fi Adventure

Title: The Ghost Ships: Journey into The Void: A Thrilling Sci-Fi Adventure
Authors: Dawn Steinman & Cal Orey
Publisher: ACH Publishing
ISBN: 979-8348546595
Pages: 263
Genre: Science Fiction
Reviewer: Lily Amanda

Read Book Review

The absorbing novel The Ghost Ships: Journey Into the Void: A Thrilling Sci-Fi Adventure by Dawn Steinman and Cal Orey is chock-full of mind-bending ideas, nail biting action, breathtaking vistas, and turns which will leave you gasping.

Lieutenant Alastar Kar, a half-human, half-feline, is charged with the critical but clandestine mission of safely conveying envoys from other planets to Newark aboard the ISS Zephyr, a renowned spaceship that glides through space with a quiet, almost ethereal elegance. Captain Riker, on whose behalf he took the mission, advises him that the assignment is risky since there are people who would like to see it interrupted, so he must protect the envoys by all means. Amidst growing dissatisfaction with the delegation due to their incessant requests and cultural incompatibilities, Kar receives new orders that need him to make an impromptu stop on a remote planet for more delegation. But as soon as they get onto the ship, he has a hunch that there is more to their arrival than meets the eye.

When the crew arrives at the location where they are meant to meet Captain Riker, they discover something unexpected. A pod of someone who made a valiant attempt to flee is nearby, as is an alien-looking ship with a strange energy signature and an unnerving stance. The situation rapidly changes when the shuttle, which is carrying crew members to look into the incident, is aggressively pursued by the ship. The alien ship’s warning to surrender causes Kar’s senses to go into overdrive as he feels the weight of duty pressing down on him and self-doubt eating away at his thinking.

Rapid-fire action, exhilarating scenes, and swift occurrences reminiscent of Star Trek and The Orville comprise this captivating story. The prospect of a revolution (on board what is a sci-fi fan’s dream ship) and the crew’s rapidly dwindling tolerance create just enough tension, raising the stakes higher as what begins as a “doable” job quickly takes a different turn. The book is an amazing offering that boldly pushes the boundaries of science fiction writing. Its blend of intelligent arguments and clever banter that will keep readers enthralled. Its strong characterization effectively gives surprises, sagacious underdog concepts, and conquering beyond-fear ideals.

Dawn Steinman and Cal Orey’s The Ghost Ships: Journey Into the Void: A Thrilling Sci-Fi Adventure reads a lot like a mystery novel, with a clear sense of intrigue. It is jam-packed, and science fiction enthusiasts will find just what they are looking for in it.  This book offers a promising beginning to what appears to be an epic trilogy. Readers looking for a blend of adventure, mystery, and existential intrigue will find much to enjoy in this stellar addition to the genre.

buy on amazon

Fiction, Latest Reviews, Science Fiction & Fantasy

Time-Traveling Tabby Featured in Oracle Visionary Magazine

Paws Through Time

 Earth Changes (March Oracle Visionary Magazine)

By Cal Orey

Time-Traveling Tabby
Paws, Claws, and Quantum Laws: Feline Odyssey Through Dimensions!

In a world where seismic and cosmic events reshape the Earth and alter the fabric of time, an underappreciated cat becomes an unexpected bridge between past and present. As its new owner and cat experience the complexities of time travel, the feline’s heightened senses alert her to impending Earth changes that could redefine their existence. Together they forge a bond, revealing tales of feline companionship while facing the mysteries of the Universe…

In the short story Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time, a scribe navigates a complex time-based landscape, and her newly adopted cat becomes a conduit to the past, revealing tales of feline companions from bygone eras. With its keen senses, the cat alerts its owner to an impending celestial event, forging a bond between them that transcends time and space. As the feline peeks into a future time loop in 2032 (impacts of climate change and extreme weather events), it must trust its instincts in order to confirm a calm future. [PAWS ACROSS TIME: ORACLE VISIONARY MARCH 2025, PAGES 18-19--Oracle Visionary | Oracle Visionary March 2025 | MagCloud]  

The tale revolves around a young orange tabby cat adopted by a seasoned prose weaver who takes “Gatsby” on a journey through time, visiting the 70s, 80s, 90s, and the 21st century, and eventually, the future. The feline narrator tells the saga of adventures, which are deeply connected to his owner’s past experiences and the stories she shares with him about her previous cats. As the cat listens to these feline tales, he feels a strong desire to prove himself and fill the paws of the scribes’ past adopted cats who endured Earth changes through decades in the U.S.:

• 1970s:  In 1975, on the island of Hawaii (Big Island), the Kilauea volcano erupted, causing geological changes.

• 1980s: The eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington State in 1980 caused widespread destruction and ash fallout.

• 1990s: Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in 2005, leading to catastrophic flooding and a humanitarian crisis.

• 1999: Y2K concerns over potential computer system failures at the turn of the millennium led to widespread preparations that fizzled with minimal disruption.

The Cat’s Journey and Sci-Fi/Fantasy Elements

As Gatsby time travels with his owner, he develops a keen intuition that allows him to sense an imminent earthquake, which he warns his owner about by scratching at the closet door for two days before the BIG event changes his life. The act of courage and loyalty wins over his owner’s heart, and she begins to appreciate the great Sir Gatsby’s wonderful listening skills and the special bond they share. The cat’s ability to sense the earthquake and his journey through time with his owner are the key sci-fi elements in the story, showcasing his uncanny powers and the unique connection he has with his owner. The cat’s experiences and the stories this owner tells him about her past felines who survived earth changing events, creates a rich and immersive narrative that explores the themes of time travel, intuition, and the human-animal bond. 

Take a peek at an excerpt from the Time-Traveling Tabby:

THE SHAKE-UP - Time's Tectonic Shift

Then, BAM! seismic waves shook my senses for two days…

The sensitive woman noticed my odd scratching the closet door;

I saw flocks of birds fly away from rumbling to come,

An earthquake imminent; shaking and rolling floor—and MORE!

Sci-Fi/Fantasy Themes

The story is heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of the sci-fi fantasy genre, with a unique twist of having a feline narrator who travels through time and experiences the world in a way that is both familiar and strange. The cat’s journey and his owner’s stories about her past cats create a sense of nostalgia and high-tech wonder, highlighting the idea that animals can possess a deep understanding of the world and the people around them. The story’s use of time travel and the cat’s intuitive abilities adds a layer of sci-fi/fantasy that makes the narrative engaging and mesmerizing.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws. (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and an electrifying co-authored sci-fi-/fantasy trilogy--The Ghost Ships. Her website is www.calorey.com 

Broken Heart Syndrome ... What is the Rx?

A New Pet Can Heal Broken Heart Syndrome  

Tahoe Author’s New Book Blooms from a Past Broken Heart

CalOrey, M.A

Last spring on the South Shore, I experienced a shocking bout of “broken heart syndrome,” or takotsbupo cardiomyopathy, a temporary condition triggered by severe emotional stress, like losing a beloved pet. This condition weakens the heart muscle, mimicking heart attack symptoms and is more common in women facing intense grief from loss.

What’s more, scientific research shows the emotional pain from losing a love connection can trigger physiological responses in the body, potentially leading to increased troponin (a cardiac marker) due to stress on the heart. And this happened to me during the downfall of my senior Siamese cat, Zen.

But I knew adopting a new pet helps heal your heart! Welcoming a companion animal into your life can provide companionship and joy, helping to fill the emotional loss left by the deceased pet. This act can foster healing by creating new memories while honoring the bond with the lost pet. And this is why I penned Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time...

Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE A SCI-FI/FANTASY BOOK CATEGORIZED IN ANIMAL FICTION AND CATS?

A: A big young fluffy orange tabby cat was my muse.  Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time features my new feline. Fate brought us together. When my beloved cat passed, I searched for a dog-loving, chill pet. I adopted Sacramento-based Gatsby—interviewee 202. The narrative explores the journey of the new feline as it struggles to fill the void left by its predecessor(s) while also establishing its own identity with its new owner—a scribe.

Q: YOU’VE HAD CAT COMPANIONS IN THE PAST YEARS AT TAHOE. WHY DID YOU USE A SCI-FI-ISH TECHNIQUE TO TELL THE TALE?

A: My roots to South Lake Tahoe and felines go back decades. Using a cat as the narrator and giving him the ability to sense a paranormal happening fall into the sci-fi/fantasy genre.

Q: IN TIME-TRAVELING TABBY, WHAT EVENT CHANGE BOTH THE CAT AND HIS NEW OWNER’S CONNECTION?

A: I don’t want to dish a story spoiler, but I will tell you the BIG imminent earthshaker comes from a real happening on the South Shore; it inspired me to write this tale of sixth sense, courage, loyalty, and love. The end result: As a devout cat lover, I value the human-animal bond which is healing for the mind and body.

Q:  DID YOUR NEW ORANGE TABBY HELP HEAL YOUR HEART?

A: I was on a quest to find a feline companion to help nurse my lovesickness. Yes, Gatsby accomplished the feat of filling big paws; but Zen will always have a place in my heart. And indeed, adopting a pet is the Rx doctors should order for broken heart syndrome.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and a sci-fi trilogy--The Ghost Ships.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com

Review of The Ghost Ships: Journey Into The Void

Review of The Ghost Ships:Journey Into The Void

Post by Kutloano Makhuvhela » 28 Feb 2025, 17:18

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Ghost Ships:Journey Into The Void" by Dawn Steinman & Cal Orey.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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The Ghost Ships: Journey Into The Void by Dawn Steinman & Cal Orey is an action-packed science fiction novel that takes you into far distant galaxies where different sophisticated civilisations are thriving. It is set in the year 3025, and we meet a protagonist who is trying to find himself by learning about his past, where he comes from, who his parents are, and everything in between, while also trying to make a mission he’s been tasked with succeed. The book is good, poignant, and creatively different.

Lieutenant Alastar Kar is not a full human. He may share many characteristics with humans, but the truth is, he has feline genes in him. This gives him abilities that are much superior to a normal human being. Now and again, he has these intense, vivid dreams that almost feel too real. He dreams of a person called Captain Riker, who seems to be attacked on his ship called Jewel. The crew is missing, and everything seems to be pushed into the abyss of space. Waking up, he’s sweating and has a lot of questions. He decides to put this—a mere dream or premonition?—behind and focuses on his today’s task. Soon, he’s tasked with taking charge of a very legendary ship called the Zephyr.

This ship is every astronaut’s dream. It is everything amazing. It is superbly designed, and everything about it is just out of this world. Lieutenant Alastar Kar is prepared to give it his all and put all those bad dreams away from his mind. His mission? Simple, he has to fetch ambassadors from the planets around the galaxy using Zephyr and transport them to the peace conference. But it is not that simple because everyone from every planet is different. Some are led by men and don’t like being attended to by women; some are from planets that are full of greenery, while others don’t like bright lights. The crew of Zephyr, with Lieutenant Alastar Kar at the helm, must try to make it work. Will he be successful? Can anything go wrong? Is the outer galaxy a treacherous place? Where is Captain Riker?

Don’t waste time; read this book now! Not only are you going to get the answers to those questions, but you will learn more about this world the authors have crafted through their collaboration. Everything worked and seemed so real. I felt myself out there with Lieutenant Alastar Kar and his crew as they tried by all means to make a success of this delicate mission. The first thing that impressed me was the characterisation. Every character had a perfect role to play in this saga. Lieutenant Alastar Kar had to be my favourite, followed by Ensign Morgan. Both of them came from different backgrounds, but they were prepared to put their talents to use to keep everyone safe.

The writing was superb. I loved the authors’ proses. They blended seamlessly. By no means could I tell one’s writing from the other because of how they worked well together. I suspect, though, that one author wrote the chapters where Lieutenant Alastar Kar appeared, while the other wrote the chapters where the other characters, especially Ensign Morgan, appeared. I say this because the book mixed the first-person narration and the third-person narration. When it focused on Lieutenant Alastar Kar, it was told from his point of view. This made the reading interesting because I knew how Lieutenant Alastar Kar perceived the world while also seeing how other characters perceived him back. This made a delicate balance. The characters trusted each other and did everything in their power to assist.

The action sequences were amazingly portrayed. This was due to the descriptions infused in the narration of the story because it made sure the words used were revealing. The fight scenes were believable and realistic. They were consistent with physics laws. This shows the authors did thorough research approaching this book. The dialogue in the book balanced the book well because I didn’t feel like the story was told to me. I was shown everything.

The plot was thick enough to last until the last page of the book. The conclusion left me yearning for more because I wanted to find out where they had landed and what would be the way forward from there, and I was glad to find there is book two. 

In conclusion, I rate this book four out of five stars. I would strongly recommend it to people who love epic science fiction novels with compelling characters. Teenagers and young adults would be a suitable audience for the book.

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The Ghost Ships:Journey Into The Void
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