text:
10 Quotes on Feminism From Madonna's Pre-Inauguration Talk With Marilyn Minter
The two artists talk age, sexuality, and history in advance of Trump's presidency.
Sarah Cascone, January 20, 2017
Marilyn Minter and Madonna. Courtesy of Madonna via Instagram.
As the crowd filtered into the auditorium at the Brooklyn Museum on January 19, the night before the inauguration of reality star-turned-politician Donald Trump, footage of African American author and social critic James Baldwin played on a screen. The occasion was "Madonna X Marilyn Minter," a conversation between pop star Madonna and artist Marilyn Minter, two legendary feminists who showed themselves to be unafraid of speaking out against the incoming president.
The image and memory of Baldwin helped set the tone for the following discussion, moderated by museum director Anne Pasternak and poet and playwright Elizabeth Alexander, which vocalized a creed of intersectional, inclusionary feminism that extends beyond white, upper-class, straight, cis women.
Trump Reportedly Wants to Eliminate the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities
By Brian Boucher , Jan 19, 2017
Without preamble, the evening's programming began in earnest with the screening of secretprojectrevolution, a black-and-white film starring, directed, and produced by Madonna. "I want to start a revolution, but they don't take me seriously," the singer narrated, over scenes blending violent imagery with graceful dance.
Elizabeth Alexander, Marilyn Minter, Madonna, and Anne Pasternak at the Brooklyn Museum. Courtesy of Kevin Mazur/Getty Images.
Although the video was made in 2013, it ended with an extremely timely message: "This film is dedicated to those who have been persecuted, are being persecuted, or may be persecuted. For the color of their skin. Their religious beliefs. Their artistic expression. Their gender. Or their sexual preferences. Anyone whose human rights have been violated."
While Trump's inauguration has exacerbated and even provoked fear of such persecution among large swaths of the population, Pasternak introduced the speakers on an upbeat note, saying, "These are two artists who know that with action and resistance, there is hope."
Madonna's Post of Scottish Artist's Trump Artwork Goes Viral
By Caroline Elbaor , Jan 19, 2017
Throughout the evening, the importance of standing up for women's rights, and all human rights, both for artists and the general public, was a theme. "Fight back," Minter urged. "Don't accept anything he does. He's not my president."
The conversation was at times deeply personal. Madonna spoke of a turning point after being raped, when a dove managed to fly down between two tightly-squeezed buildings and alight on her windowsill. She also talked about motherhood, and how "my kids are not impressed—at all," by her many career accomplishments.
Madonna at the Brooklyn Museum. Courtesy of Kevin Mazur/Getty Images.
Despite working in different disciplines, Minter and Madonna have both encountered fierce criticism for wholeheartedly embracing sexuality in their work. They talked about the difficulties of dealing with rejection, and how it can make one stronger.
A career's worth of opposition has left both women battle-hardened and ready to fight anew against the oppression of women. "We can only go up from here," Madonna insisted, ready to lead the fight.
The talk was part of the Brooklyn Museum's "A Year of Yes: Reimagining Feminism at the Brooklyn Museum," celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Institution's Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art. "Pretty/Dirty," a retrospective of Minter's work, is among the yearlong programming, which appears to be pitched in part against Trump's apparent misogyny.
Madonna and Marilyn Minter Talk Feminism at Brooklyn Museum on Inauguration Eve
If the importance of the feminist movement was implicitly understood, its role in the years to come was perhaps up for debate: "Maybe revolution isn't the right word for me. It's about a historic continuation for a fight for equality and goodness for all," said Pasternak.
"But," Madonna noted, "that is a revolutionary idea unfortunately."
Anne Pasternak, Marilyn Minter, Madonna, and Elizabeth Alexander at the Brooklyn Museum. Courtesy of Kevin Mazur/Getty Images.
Here are ten key quotes from the discussion:
1. On age and sexuality:
Minter: "If you're young and you're working with sexuality, people will kill you. Other women want to kill you… When you're an old lady, nobody cares. They don't in the art world. They don't let you get old if you're an entertainer, but in the art world, you can get old…"
Madonna: "But are you allowed to have sexuality?"
Minter: "Oh no—but you're allowed to make jokes about it!"
2. On the importance of supporting other women:
Minter: "When I see an artist I love, I wanna kill her, especially if it's really good… But what I do instead is I go up to them and tell them how much I love their work, and [how much] I want to get to know them, and the poison drains, and then they're my colleagues."
Madonna: "So then we go come to what you said at the beginning, and that's 'all we have is love.'"
Minter: "And that's all we do have. Love trumps hate. Always does."
Marilyn Minter Orange Crush (2009). Courtesy of the Brooklyn Museum.
3. On not losing hope and how Trump's election shows us what's really important:
Madonna: "I do believe that Trump was elected for a reason: to show us how lazy and un-unified and lackadaisical and taking-for-granted we've become of our freedom and the rights we have as Americans. They say it's always darkest before the dawn. This had to happen to bring people together—so let's get this party started!"
4. On why a Trump presidency is so upsetting:
Minter: "This is the most frightened I've ever been—I've never been frightened by my government before. I've been really angry at them. I've watched Nixon, and I've watched the AIDS crisis, and two Bushes, and this is the first time everything is really been upside down, and what I thought was happening was not happening. The most qualified candidate that ever ran was beaten by the least qualified candidate that ever ran, because of misogyny, baked in misogyny."
5. On what it means to call yourself a feminist:
Madonna: "It means that we're all human beings and we deserve to be treated with dignity and respect."
6. On the future of feminism:
Pasternak: "I see young people, they're tired of our generation and it's bullshit. They're tired of white women not supporting each other and white women not supporting women of color… I think they see that we made lots of progress but it didn't completely work, and they're coming up with completely new language, identification, organization, and some of it's very, very exciting… I think this is a radical moment… really remarkable art is going to come out of this moment, and for better or worse we're inspiring a new generation of thinkers and creators and viewers."
7. On how to send a message with your art:
Minter: "One has to work in metaphor because illustration is boring and tells everyone what to think."
Madonna. Photo by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggot, courtesy of the Brooklyn Museum.
8. On appreciating the moment:
Madonna: "When I was beginning my life as an artist on the Lower East Side, and I was meeting on a regular basis with Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol and many other artists who you wouldn't know the names of, I didn't understand how precious and unique that time was. To me it just seemed normal."
9. On looking to history for guidance:
Alexander: "Trump gets elected and my dad says, 'Well, Harriet Tubman figured it out, so y'all need to figure it out.' And you have the benefit of seeing how Harriet Tubman figured it out. Looking back over time and remembering people have figured something out in the face of unimaginable oppression and adversity…what does it mean to look at those lessons and understand the historical circumstances and say, okay, what do we have to do now?"
10. On where to go from here:
Madonna: "We only have two choices: destruction and creation. I'm going down the road of creation, and you're all welcome to join me."
Watch the full talk below:
Marilyn Minter's Largest-Ever Public Art Installation Is Coming to a New York City Mall
From Beyoncé's Pregnancy Photo to Brad Pitt's Foray Into Sculpture, See 2017's Top Celebrity Cameos in the Art World
By Sarah Cascone & Caroline Goldstein , Jan 1, 2018
Judge Halts the Auction of the Revealing Breakup Letter Tupac Shakur Wrote Madonna From Prison
By Eileen Kinsella , Jul 19, 2017
The Week in Art: Michael Bloomberg Hits Winter Antiques, Outsider Art Fair's 25th Edition
By , Jan 21, 2017
The Week in Art: Andy Warhol Takes Hollywood and Beatriz Santiago Munoz at El Museo del Barrio


I thought that photographers interested in BTZS would like to see photographs by Phil Davis, since he rarely published his work. In fact when he did the 4th edition of his Beyond the Zone System he asked his students to submit photographs for his book. I have a photograph in the book for chapter 6 - Testing your materials. The rest of the photographs are by his students. The two things that Phil loved the best were teaching and sensitometry.
This limited edition Dexter portfolio by the late photo educator Phil Davis consists of ten archival-processed prints measuring 7-1/2x9-1/2 inches on 14x15-1/4 inch boards except for two of the prints which measure 6-3/4 inches high. The prints themselves are 8x10 contact prints on gold-toned Kodak AZO paper. It consists of 10 environmental portraits all done in natural light. Dexter is a small town in Michigan where all the portraits were taken. The portfolio was a test of Phil's incident system and BTZS (Beyond the Zone System). Phil taught using the incident meter as part of his BTZS workshops and it is discussed in his Beyond the Zone System book 4ht Edition and his BTZS Workshop video.
I hope you enjoy these photographs by Phil Davis.


text:
DNA May Influence Your Reproductive Decisions
Oct 4, 2016 | Health Tips
MONDAY, Oct. 31, 2016 (HealthDay News) — Your DNA may influence how old you are when you become a parent and how many kids you have, a new study suggests.
An international team of more than 250 scientists said it has identified 12 areas of DNA associated with age of first childbirth and total family size.
The findings suggest that genetics may play a role in reproductive behavior — along with personal choice, social circumstances and environmental factors, the researchers said.
"Our genes do not determine our behavior, but for the first time, we have identified parts of the DNA code that influence it. This is another small piece to understanding this very large jigsaw puzzle," study first author Nicola Barban, of Oxford University in England, said in a university news release.
The analysis of data from more than 568,000 men and women was published Oct. 31 in the journal Nature Genetics.
"For the first time, we now know where to find the DNA areas linked to reproductive behavior," said study lead author Melinda Mills, a professor of sociology at Oxford.
"For example, we found that women with DNA variants for postponing parenthood also have bits of DNA code associated with later onset of menstruation and later menopause," she said in a university news release.
"One day it may be possible to use this information so doctors can answer the important question: 'How late can you wait?' based on the DNA variants," Mills added.
But, it's important to put this finding into perspective, she said. Having a child "still strongly depends on many social and environmental factors that will always play a bigger role in whether or when we have babies," she added.
The researchers also found that DNA variants linked with age of first childbirth are also associated with other areas of reproduction, such as the age when girls have their first period, when a boy's voice breaks, and when women have menopause.
How great is this DNA influence?
Together, the gene variants in the 12 areas of DNA identified in this study predict less than 1 percent of when people have their first child and how many children they have, the researchers said.
While this seems "extremely small," in some cases when the variants are combined, they can be used to predict the probability of women remaining childless, according to the researchers.
The study authors also said that further examination enabled them to identify 24 genes likely responsible for the effects of the 12 DNA variants on reproductive behavior.
Some of these genes were already known to play a role in infertility, while others have not yet been studied.
An "improved understanding of the function of these genes may provide new insights for infertility treatments," said study co-authors Harold Snieder and Marcel den Hoed. They're with the University of Groningen in the Netherlands and Uppsala University in Sweden, respectively.
SOURCE: University of Oxford, news release, Oct. 31, 2016
News stories are provided by HealthDay and do not reflect the views of MedlinePlus, the National Library of Medicine, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or federal policy.
MedlinePlus Health News
10 Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol Levels
Keep your heart healthy by lowering your cholesterol levels. By N...
The ten-minute workout you should do every morning before work
It's quick, relatively painless and is equal to just about one r...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


In North Carolina alone, as many as 60,000 families are impacted by autism with one or more members affected by some form of the syndrome that sometimes isolates families and their members from day to day activities. For a three-day weekend, April 20-22, Wrightsville Beach invites these families and the public to participate in the inclusive 3rd Annual World Autism Awareness Weekend.
Friday, April 20 - Arrive and connect with old friend and make new ones. Stroll the beach, play games on the oceanfront lawn, enjoy gluten free and special menu options available at the Blockade Runner Beach Resort, host hotel, and register for Saturday's 5k and fun run/walk events.
8:30 a.m. the 2nd Annual Coastal N.C. Run/Walk at Mayfaire Town Center includes three events: a 5k race, 1 mile fun-run and kid's dash. Proceeds support autism services. Sponsored by the Autism Society of North Carolina and GHA Autism Supports.
11a.m. to 4 p.m. Surfers Healing presents Family Day in Wrightsville Beach Park. Experience a day of hands-on kids' activities, networking and resource sharing. Booths will feature children's activities like board waxing, face painting, fishing, corn toss and more. A miniature skate park is featured along with sensory and calming toys. Indo Jax Surf Charity will sponsor the bounce house and Wrightsville Beach Ocean Rescue lifeguards will lead special water safety instruction. Bi-lingual information booths will be hosted by theAutism Society of North Carolina; A.skate.org; Family Support Network; NC Aquarium; N.C. Chapter of Surfers Healing; Ocean Cure; S.H.A.R.E.; TEACCH; Wilmington Children's Developmental Services Agency; Oasis and Exceptional Friends Network.
Families may select from games on the oceanfront lawn, offered all day, or water activities at the Blockade Runner beginning at 10 a.m. and continuing until everyone is happy! Kayaks and equipment will be provided by Hook, Line and Paddle for those who wish to paddle scenic Banks Channel. Captain Joe Abbate, the Cape Fear Naturalist, will offer scenic and comfortable water cruises aboard The Shamrock. See Banks Channel, Motts Channel, Money Island and hear stories told by Captain Joe. Sunday morning buffet and a mid-day seaside cookout will be available.
For skating fans, A.skate is sponsoring a clinic at the Double Wide Skate Barn in Hampstead 9 to 11 a.m. The camp is fully booked, but Autism Weekend participants are encouraged to come and cheer these talented skaters!
The goal of World Autism Awareness Weekend at Wrightsville Beach is outreach, inclusion and awareness, and to provide activities and festivities for children on the autism spectrum and supply networking and resource opportunities for their parents and other family members. World Autism Awareness Month (April) was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007.


100 Pics I Love 80s Answers, Cheats & Solutions.
If you don't know the answer for a certain 100 Pics I Love 80s level, check bellow. Find Below the complete solution and answers to the 100 Pics I Love 80s Level.


My cousin Kathleen Chudleigh died on the 6th of July. She was one of most everyone's favorite people in the world just as soon as they met her. She was warm, giving, generous, and of course my favorite memory of her is just silly.
It must have been July 3 1991. She and I sat in the front row of the now-defunct Menlo Park movie theater at a late-night show on the opening of Terminator 2. It was a lot of fun to watch this crazy and violent sci-fi movie with my kind Buddhist cousin. We had a great time.
I'm real sorry for your loss, man.
thanks for sharing the memory. And I love the idea that she continues to make this a better world. I can buy into that and I bet she would, too.


What is Blue Baby Syndrome & How is it Treated?
Blue Baby Syndrome which in medical terms is known by the name of methemoglobinemia is an extremely rare condition found in newborns, in which the color of the baby's skin is blue tinged. Blue Baby Syndrome is a type of a blood disorder, in which the blood is not able to be oxygenated enough. Under normal circumstances, the blood flows from the right atrium of the heart to the right ventricle from there it gets pumped into the lungs for oxygenation.
This oxygenated blood then flow to the left atrium and is pumped to the left ventricle from where it goes to all parts of the body. The oxygen present in the blood is used for various bodily functions before it goes back to the heart for oxygenation again.
In Blue Baby Syndrome, this process of oxygenation does not take place or even if it takes place, it is very little and hence the parts of the body are deprived of the oxygen that is required to run bodily functions resulting in a variety of symptoms. Unusually high amount of nitrates present in drinking water is presumed to be the main cause of Blue Baby Syndrome.
What Causes Blue Baby Syndrome?
As stated, the main cause of blue baby syndrome is significant amount of nitrates present in the drinking water of the baby. There are several factors associated with occurrence of blue baby syndrome. The first of this is excess amount of nitrates in an infant's drinking water. The nitrates once inside the body gets converted to nitrites, which react with oxyhemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygenated blood, resulting formation of methoglobin which does not have the ability to carry oxygen. This results in the body receiving less oxygenated blood causing blue baby syndrome.
Certain congenital heart defects may also cause blue baby syndrome like tetralogy of fallot, which is the primary cause of blue baby syndrome. Certain respiratory infections may also cause infants to develop respiratory distress such that they are not able to take enough oxygen in, hence causing Blue Baby Syndrome.
Skin discoloration: The infant's skin will have a bluish tinge to it due to insufficient oxygen in the blood.
Breathing Difficulty: The infant will also have problems with breathing normally such that less oxygen will get in the body.
Failure to Thrive: The infant with Blue Baby Syndrome will have severe developmental delays and will not be able to reach his or her milestones on time.
How is Blue Baby Syndrome Diagnosed?
The best and the most trusted way to diagnose blue baby syndrome is a test called Co-Oximetry, which can be followed by further tests like blood draws to measure the levels of oxygen in the blood, which in the cases of blue baby syndrome will be very low.
Blue Baby Syndrome can be treated effectively provided that the condition is diagnosed accurately and early and the cause of it is determined. Blood test to measure the level of oxygen in the blood is done before formulating a treatment plan. The treatment of blue baby syndrome depends on the cause of the condition. If the condition is caused due to consumption of water rich in nitrates, then this can be treated with medications and recommending safe drinking water for the baby.
Surgery is required for treating babies with inherited heart conditions like Tetralogy of Fallot. Blue Baby Syndrome may be a rare condition, but in many places around the world where people still rely on underground drinking water, especially in rural areas there are many cases of Blue Baby Syndrome still being reported.


Tried my best to cram everything I could from The most recent public iteration of Barotrauma into Barotrauma legacy, aswell as a few little things I liked here and there, some things worked well, others did not. either way, try it out and hopefully you'll like it.
Nice, great work. I love it. As someone who didn't get the dev build in time and was denied entry to the closed alpha, I appreciate this. Really helps out. Thanks.
Thanks, I've got some more plans for this sort of stuff, some fairly normal stuff as well as some really ridiculous creations.
i'd honestly recommend you stop working on this mod, steam release is comming in a month and this version is going to be abandoned, it's a waste of effort in my opinion.
That'll just give me more stuff to put into legacy.


text:
Q: how to send small files(<10Kb) of large quantity(300,000 files) to external drive quickly? I have lots of javascript files(~300,000) which has size of <1Kb. I'm trying to tranfer it to external harddrive. It is taking days to transfer. Please let us know if there is any quick way to do this.

A: Put them in a compressed archive, like a .zip file, then transfer that.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Q: React Native Dynamic module with native app gives "couldn't find DSO to load: libjsc.so" We are trying to load a module dynamically that contains all the react-native related files. but unfortunately, we are getting the below error

We searched a lot but couldn't find the proper fix for that.  we are initializing the SOLOADER inside the dynamic module.
Current Structure of our Projects:
Android
rnmodule ( which contains all the reactnative related code) , app module is being injected in this module as a structure of dynamic module
appmodule(base) ->
Build.gradle(app)
content->
`
if (enableHermes) {
        // for RN 0.61+:
        def hermesPath = "path";

        debugApi files(hermesPath + "hermes-debug.aar")
        releaseApi files(hermesPath + "hermes-release.aar")
    } else {
        api jscFlavor
    }

`

project.ext.react = [

    // your index js if not default, other settings
    // Hermes JSC ?
    entryFile    : "index.js",
    root         : "./../",
    enableVmCleanup : false,
    bundleInDebug: false,
    bundleInRelease: false,
    enableHermes : true,
    hermesCommand: "./../path/hermesc",

]

    def jscFlavor = 'org.webkit:android-jsc-intl:+

    def enableHermes = project.ext.react.get("enableHermes", true);

    '

So current issue is whenever we try to launch the React Native Activity it throws the above error.
Couple of things we tried out ->

*

*we tried to load the library before actually using the library
The synatx I used:
SplitInstallHelper.loadLibrary(context, "SoLoader")
-> Not sure if this is really required

*Tried to enabling/disabling Hermes ( didn't make a difference)

*Tried to move the above block of code to a specific build.gradle (rn) (None of them seems to resolve this issue)
Goal -> To load the whole module as a dynamic feature
Would be great if somebody can answer these questions along with

*

*Do we need to load the library dynamically for a dynamic module  ( According to me it's only required if not being injected in-app )


Dave Winer points to an interesting question from Daniel Berlinger; Why wasn't the Web built on FTP?
I think the answer to Daniel's question is pretty easy; Tim chose to start with a new protocol, because he was innovating and FTP was well-entrenched at that time (if he even considered FTP at all, I don't know). Tim's (and later, Roy's) innovations would have required substantial changes to FTP too (support for URIs, and the fallout from that being the big one), so I think it was a wise choice.
There's probably more issues. Add those to the fact that FTP was RFCd in 1985, eight or nine years before Web standardization began, and there'd be a lot of pushback from the IESG to changing FTP into something that it wasn't intended to be. And rightly so.


St. Nicholas Orthodox Academy is affiliated with Bishop Ilia Katre of Philomelion, Bishop of the Albanian Orthodox Diocese of America. The Albanian Diocese is directly under the jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Constantinople. Today, we were blessed to have His Grace at the Academy for the entire school day. He led our opening and closing prayers, and also led an engaging discussion with our students on the Gospel reading for today (Matthew 11:2-15). Bishop Ilia is a very wise and compassionate leader, who gave excellent advice to Father Paul and Barbara to help us move forward into the next phases of the Academy's growth. The Academy is truly blessed to have Bishop Ilia's prayers and leadership!
We can accept boarding students for the 2018-2019 school year!
St. Nicholas Orthodox Academy is operated as an exempt school under the provision of NRS 394.211 and as such is exempt from the provisions of the Private Elementary and Secondary Authorization Act.


Once we arrived at Taps & Tastes, we unloaded our newest piece of equipment: Seabiscuit the Jockey Box. She worked beautifully with only a few minor hiccups. The real problem: we had no shives for the cask! Three hard spiles were left at our brewery neatly folded in a paper towel. I had brought extra keystone bungs in case we split the wood while hammering in the tap, but forgot the crucial piece of wood that would vent the cask. The event was set to start in a few minutes, and we had to improvise. So we did what any rational person would do, we hammered in a flat head screwdriver.
Just to make things a bit more difficult, our beer engine would not clamp to the thick wooden table we were stationed at. This required a technique that was similar to curling free weights. It was a good look for KC's smallest nano-brewery.
Our team was incredibly fun and efficient. If there was a Terminator built to pour beer, it would be Taylor, pouring three beers at once while laughing and talking with the crowd. Jay was there with lederhosen and a cool hat, explaining our recipes and high-fiving the occasional fan. Flenker, who seemed to know everybody, was expertly pouring and explaining our process. And then there was me, learning again that there really isn't a good day to wear flip-flops, especially when you are downstream from 20 bbls of beer being poured.
The day before all this commotion, we were invited into the Boulevard caves to sample some beer straight from the barrel. This was probably the only time in recent KC memory that Jeremy Danner wasn't the most famous person in the room. Hey, who is that guy in picture below? The guy who invented the American Pale Ale style, oh no big deal. Don't mind the guy in the Bluth frozen banana shirt taking your picture.
I met some incredible local guys as well. Nick from Martin City Brewing not only brews the best Abbey in town, but sported the best brew beard of anybody at Boulevardia. Those Germans from KCBC were on point and full of beer knowledge. Seeing the Cinderblock brew team is always interesting, fun guys who brew some serious beer. My favorite local brewery, Big Rip, was on hand talking shop and dropping some great brewing techniques. I had a chance to meet the brewmaster from Amerisports Brew Pub, who happens to brew the best Pilsner in town. Rock & Run has some of the nicest guys in the industry, and their 5K IPA is off the charts delicious. It was a humbling experience to be in the presence of such incredible people.
Boulevard went above and beyond treating us to this incredible experience. We were able to try beer straight from the cask and into our glass. They even had tasting notes so we could try the barrel with "chocolate, acetone" or "acetic, peaches". My favorite? The Imperial Stout with the most intense smokey barrel flavor I have ever imbibed.
I got yelled at for snapping the above pic, apparently I spilled a drop on the floor.
After the caves we were treated to a Brewer's Reception in the Muelebach suite at the Boulevard Brewery. It was a chance to meet some incredible people, and try some amazing beer. Russian River's Pliny the Elder was a hop bomb that hit everything on the palate perfectly. One brew to watch out for in the coming months: Boulevard's Celebration Sour. Well rounded sour notes, with a malty finish that was very unique.
We are very lucky to have such a big, generous brewery in KC. Be sure to swing by the tasting room and try their new Oatmeal Stout and Spiced Saison, new entries in the Tasting Room series. You owe it to yourself.


text:
Start by marking "Witches Protection Program" as Want to Read:
We'd love your help. Let us know what's wrong with this preview of Witches Protection Program by Michael Phillip Cash.
Preview — Witches Protection Program by Michael Phillip Cash
Witches Protection Program
Michael Phillip Cash (Goodreads Author)
3.65 · Rating details · 562 ratings · 265 reviews
Wes Rockville, a disgraced law enforcement agent, is given one last chance to prove himself and save his career when he's reassigned to a 232 year old secret government organization. The Witches Protection Program.
His first assignment: uncover a billion-dollar Cosmetics company's diabolical plan of using witchcraft for global domination, while protecting its heiress Wes Rockville, a disgraced law enforcement agent, is given one last chance to prove himself and save his career when he's reassigned to a 232 year old secret government organization. The Witches Protection Program.
His first assignment: uncover a billion-dollar Cosmetics company's diabolical plan of using witchcraft for global domination, while protecting its heiress Morgan Pendragon from her aunt's evil deeds.
Reluctantly paired with veteran witch protector, Alastair Verne, Wes must learn to believe in both witches and himself.
Filled with adventure, suspense and a rousing good time, Michael Phillip Cash creates a tongue-in-cheek alternate reality where witches cast spells and wreak havoc in modern day New York City. ...more
Published May 14th 2015 by CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Los Angeles Book Festival for Grand Prize Winner & Young Adult (2016)
To ask other readers questions about Witches Protection Program, please sign up.
This was a fun, engaging book, such a clever approach. Any chance you will write another of a similar fashion? Any input of similar style books? Finished quite awhile ago and still have visions of this book's story, it was so enjo yable.
See 1 question about Witches Protection Program…
ATY 2020 - Witches!
· 562 ratings · 265 reviews
All LanguagesEnglish (261)
Start your review of Witches Protection Program
May 24, 2015 Dianne rated it it was amazing
Shelves: fantasy, author-requested-review, own, witches
Some authors just know how to tell a tale, give them an idea, tie a few knots in it, dip it in rainbow dye and they can run with it. Michael Phillip Cash is one such writer and Witches Protection Program is his latest idea gone wild. In a family full of over-achievers, Wes is not another cookie-cutter piece of perfection to hang on the tree. He is human, knowingly has a few flaws and has adapted, but of course, Dad, who happens to be his law enforcement boss, takes his displeasure to new levels Some authors just know how to tell a tale, give them an idea, tie a few knots in it, dip it in rainbow dye and they can run with it. Michael Phillip Cash is one such writer and Witches Protection Program is his latest idea gone wild. In a family full of over-achievers, Wes is not another cookie-cutter piece of perfection to hang on the tree. He is human, knowingly has a few flaws and has adapted, but of course, Dad, who happens to be his law enforcement boss, takes his displeasure to new levels by sending Wes to the Witches Protection Program, where good witches often become the victims of bad witches and someone has to protect and serve, right? Wes finds himself waist deep in witchcraft, and danger as corporate hijinks and dark secrets are uncovered. Will Wes find he just isn't cut out to be a hero or will he discover something even better than pleasing good ole Dad?
It seems no matter what Michael Phillip Cash writes, he nails the entertainment factor from start to finish by reaching out beyond the safe zone and skims the very edge of the realms of possibility! With Witches Protection Program Mr. Cash has combined a little drama with a slurry of humor and a full measure of fantasy, put a bow on it and stamped it done with his own bold flare and style! Looking for an author who knows no limits?...who goes the distance to entertain with fresh ideas and fascinating plots full of originality? Look no further, it's all right here, in Michael Phillip Cash's latest! His writing is kind of like opening the Cracker Jack Box, packaged inside the covers is another great surprise!
I received this copy of Witches Protection Program from Michael Phillip Cash in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Red Feather Publishing
ISBN: ISBN-13: 9781511411349
Genre: Paranormal Suspense
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Promotions and all things Books visit: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Aug 07, 2015 Sarah rated it it was amazing
What a fun read! I had no idea what I was getting into with this book. I was excited to meet a new author's writing style and in this case I was in for a treat. I love how Cash writes. It's simple, yet filled with imagery which brings scenes and characters alive. You don't have to guess with writing like this. You know that a character has a certain shaped chin and a voice like a saw, or whatever the case might be.
I instantly was sucked into the story and endeared to the main character, Wes. What a fun read! I had no idea what I was getting into with this book. I was excited to meet a new author's writing style and in this case I was in for a treat. I love how Cash writes. It's simple, yet filled with imagery which brings scenes and characters alive. You don't have to guess with writing like this. You know that a character has a certain shaped chin and a voice like a saw, or whatever the case might be.
I instantly was sucked into the story and endeared to the main character, Wes. And the plot unfolded with such eloquence that I never had a moment to doubt whether I'd continue on. As I was reading I was really struck by how fun and genius the concept was. It's simple, yet makes a lot of sense. How hasn't this been done yet, I wondered? And yet, this is a fun, fresh story.
As I said, the writing is really great. I had so many lines I highlighted, but here's a few of my favorites.
"When someone needs to be protected, does it matter who they are?"
"What will it take for you to understand that freedom is fragile, and we must never forget what man, or woman, is capable of."
"There is a fine line between good and evil...it's called perspective."
"The way to end persecution is to not repeat the offense."
I have a new favorite author. The writing is humorous and the storytelling well done. Check it out. ...more
Nov 16, 2015 "Avonna rated it really liked it
Shelves: net-galley
Witches Protection Program by Michael Phillip Cash is a quick Paranormal Urban Fantasy read that takes place in New York City. I would also classify it as a book geared more towards young adults than hard core adult paranormal fans. The world building is based around two types of witches, good Divinas and bad Willas and a secret government agency, the Witches Protection Program that protects the Divinas from the Willas. Shapeshifting, spells and wands abound, but most normal people don't even Witches Protection Program by Michael Phillip Cash is a quick Paranormal Urban Fantasy read that takes place in New York City. I would also classify it as a book geared more towards young adults than hard core adult paranormal fans. The world building is based around two types of witches, good Divinas and bad Willas and a secret government agency, the Witches Protection Program that protects the Divinas from the Willas. Shapeshifting, spells and wands abound, but most normal people don't even know that the witches exist.
Wes Rockville is a law enforcement agent from a family of overachievers, who had his first case go bad. His father, who is also his superior, sends him to the Witches Protection Program as a last chance to prove himself. Wes doesn't believe in witches or the Steampunk type weapons he is given to defeat them. Wes and his partner discover an evil, power hungry witch, who heads a cosmetics company, is about to launch a cream that can leave her in control of all who use it. Morgan is the Divina niece of this witch, who is attracted to Wes and fights by his side to stop the cream from going to market.
This story is fun, fast and easy to read. It does start out a little slowly, but starts moving more quickly as the players and motives become clear. The spells are fun little rhymes and I liked that there was shapeshifting and broom riding. I would have liked a little more character development, but I believe the basis of this story to be more fun than complex.
I want to thank Cheshire, Inc., Independent Book Publishers Assoc. and Net Galley for allowing me to read this ARC for free in exchange for an honest review.
Dec 06, 2015 ❀Aimee❀ Just one more page... rated it liked it · review of another edition
Shelves: netgalley
This book is a light read - sort of like a cozy mystery with a paranormal feel. A special law enforcement is involved in keeping the good and bad witches apart and their fights under wraps. Memorable and snarky characters, witchy hissy fits, magical potions, and crazy weaponry abounds. This hits the spot when you want something quirky and humorous between heavy reads.
Thank you Netgalley for a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jun 02, 2015 Patricia rated it it was amazing
Shelves: book-challenge-2015
Meet Wes Rockville a disgraced police officer and the son of the head of the department, After an debacle that had him charmed by a witch. When he is transferred he is thrown into the lions den so to speak as he is to save Morgan Pendragon. A cute witch that needs help to survive her aunt and expose the world to some shady going on. With his new partner Alastaire Verne will they save Morgan , and the world and will Wes start to believe in witches and in case himself.
I fell in love with this
I fell in love with this author when I read his first book and kept on reading everything he has written . So when I found out he wrote a book about witches . I of course couldn't wait . This book is different from the rest as it is a tongue n cheek look at New York , where witches are running amuck and we have an elite team that makes sure witches are safe and unexposed in the world . They are set up to protect the good witches from the bad and the bad are really being bad . The author uses some steam punk references for the weapons they use , but it isn't slammed pack with it . I laughed out loud a few times and giggled the rest of the way through.
The characters are all strong but also flawed which are the best characters to have . Wes is a young man, who is disgraced and has a reading problem. Which makes him work harder at trying to be good at his job. He has a hard time believing but as he works through it. He becomes a very strong kick ass character . Who actually finds love at the same time. Morgan Pendragon is the witch in trouble . To me she starts off as a scared little mouse, when she is up against her aunt and the other witches that work for he aunt . But as you read you see her grow and when you see the spark between her and Wes. You see her become the strong independent woman / witch that will move the earth to save the man she loves. Alastaire is the old gruff partner that is partner to Wes. Trying to teach him the ropes and he is so nonchalant as he does it . He is so funny in some parts and there is so much more to him . We find out about as we read. Him along with Junie will keep you in stitches . Junie is a ugly witch with a magic mirror that makes her beautiful. She makes a pretty mean stew , lets just say it glows and you can see the future in it . She is quaint essential witch that will make you giggle . Over all the cast of characters will keep you giggling all the way through the book.
This book should be on your summer reading list . It is a great read that will keep you entertained while you are at the beach or at the lake . This a great twist on the witch story line and you will fall for the main characters and have a giggle or twenty. So if you want a great summer read check out WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM by Michael Phillip Cash . You will not be disappointed.
Jun 13, 2015 Danielle rated it it was amazing
Shelves: reviewed-books, for-blog
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say that I loved loved loved this book. I was so taken with it that I missed sleeping to finish reading it. It drew me in very quickly. And it was very much like reading the Dresden Files books for me. ((That is a high compliment))
I have to say I have a crush on Wes. He is a human shoved into the world of witches, fairies and whatever else is out there in the paranormal world. He was flawed as well, so it just made him feel more I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say I have a crush on Wes. He is a human shoved into the world of witches, fairies and whatever else is out there in the paranormal world. He was flawed as well, so it just made him feel more human. He was not made perfect, like so man other characters that take on the hero role. He was very human and I loved that about him.
The idea of the story was great and I didn't see any flaws in the way it was executed. Sometimes we get rushed parts and with most paranormal books, we sometimes get from point A to point B with no back story. Thankfully we got the back story here. I would have hated from them not to show me how Wes had gotten himself into trouble to begin with. Without him getting into trouble, we would not have ended up where we were in the book.
I can't wait for the next book. ((I am assuming this is the start to a new series))
Pros: Characters were great, story flowed
Cons: I couldn't find a con for this one.
Overall rating: Highly, Highly recommended!! ...more
Oct 26, 2015 Fay Roberts rated it really liked it
Shelves: books-for-review
The synopsis for the book on Goodreads and Amazon really captures the essence of the story-line without giving anything away so I won't bore you with plot details.
So what's the book actually like? It's short, quick, easy, accessible and fun. It doesn't take itself too seriously and this means that you can enjoy the story for what it is - an action-packed adventure story. The writing style is clear and vivid so you can clearly envisage the action going on and who is positioned where in a scene The synopsis for the book on Goodreads and Amazon really captures the essence of the story-line without giving anything away so I won't bore you with plot details.
So what's the book actually like? It's short, quick, easy, accessible and fun. It doesn't take itself too seriously and this means that you can enjoy the story for what it is - an action-packed adventure story. The writing style is clear and vivid so you can clearly envisage the action going on and who is positioned where in a scene (this sounds strange to mention but in some novels it isn't clear and this can really detract from the pace as you pause to think "how did you end up there?!!? what gun?!?!")
Cash keeps his universe simple. Witches live us among us, there are good and bad witches, there is a secret branch of law enforcement dedicated to protecting good witches and humans from bad ones - that's it. And the simplicity works. You don't have to remember a lot of folk law or mythology and rules of what kills what and when apart from when it doesn't and how many of the laws of physics can be broken and in what circumstances - these are witches, they have magic, all laws of physics can be broken whenever they want, however they want. The one thing I didn't like about Cash's world was the rhyming to cast spells. Rhyming couplets is something a lot of authors do when dealing with witches and it kind of detracts from their "power" for me. However, a lot of the rhymes were fun and somewhat silly in keeping with the tone of the story.
If you're a paranormal fan looking for a quick fix this is ideal. However, if you take your paranormal seriously and are looking for something along the lines of the Dark Hunters, The Hollows, or The Dark Series this probably won't float your boat. It's more in keeping in line with the fun of The Southern Vampire Mysteries. Also, it's not a paranormal romance (there's a little sprinkle of it but it's a sprinkle) so don't be expecting Wes to be your next Jericho Barrons and come over all stern and controlling (for your own good of course). There are no steamy scenes. It's also very plot driven with very little character development so if you want an involved and complex tale this isn't for you either.
Fun and exciting it's worthwhile spending a couple of hours Witches Protection Program this winter. ...more
May 25, 2015 Mandi smith rated it it was amazing
You can't go wrong with a Michael Phillip Cash book, he has a way of drawing you into the world of the books he write! I can't complain about Witches Protection Program its a great read. I received the Book today, and finished the book today. I just could not put it down. I really hope this book becomes a series and more witches get protected.
Witches Protection program is about protecting good witches against the bad witches. Morgan is my favorite witch in this book.. The book is about Wes a You can't go wrong with a Michael Phillip Cash book, he has a way of drawing you into the world of the books he write! I can't complain about Witches Protection Program its a great read. I received the Book today, and finished the book today. I just could not put it down. I really hope this book becomes a series and more witches get protected.
Witches Protection program is about protecting good witches against the bad witches. Morgan is my favorite witch in this book.. The book is about Wes a dyslexic detective who isn't seen as good as his siblings in his fathers eye. He goes to the Witches Protection program as his last chance to prove himself. You have to read the book to find out more, I won't spoil it.
I laughed at times in the book, at other parts I was on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend you reading the book ...more
May 29, 2015 Reading Divergence rated it it was amazing
Shelves: armchair-new-england, a1-i-own-books, a1-by-author-request-reviewed, 2015_world_book_challenge_lp, a1-netgalley, 2015_reads, may-2015-reads, 2015_alternate-history
Review: WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM by Michael Phillip Cash
A delightfully riveting alternate history/contemporary paranormal which posits witches as real, and as divided into two divergent categories--Davina and Willa.
Davina witches are the "good guys"--teachers, nurses, in healing professions--random act of kindness type. Willas are the Narcissists and sociopaths among witches, the "Me" individuals-and their magic is dark, ugly, selfish, and hateful. The Federal Witches Protection Program aids Review: WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM by Michael Phillip Cash
Davina witches are the "good guys"--teachers, nurses, in healing professions--random act of kindness type. Willas are the Narcissists and sociopaths among witches, the "Me" individuals-and their magic is dark, ugly, selfish, and hateful. The Federal Witches Protection Program aids Davina witches in danger from Willas. The story is action-packed, romantic, and suspenseful. I really enjoyed the way the author worked it all to a stunning--and satisfying--conclusion. ...more
Jun 01, 2015 Cyndi rated it it was amazing
Shelves: kindle
Meet Wes, a dyslexic police officer that doesn't live up to his siblings or family in the department. After he messes up an assignment, his father/boss sends him to an underground department called the Witches Protection Program. He then finds out that not only do witches exist, there are good witches and bad witches and his new job is to protect the good witches.
This was a fun and quick read. Once I started reading, I didn't want to put the book down! I enjoyed the characters so much, I hope Meet Wes, a dyslexic police officer that doesn't live up to his siblings or family in the department. After he messes up an assignment, his father/boss sends him to an underground department called the Witches Protection Program. He then finds out that not only do witches exist, there are good witches and bad witches and his new job is to protect the good witches.
This was a fun and quick read. Once I started reading, I didn't want to put the book down! I enjoyed the characters so much, I hope this turns into a series! ...more
May 30, 2015 N.N. Light rated it it was amazing
Recommends it for: those who love witches, magic, mystical and Harry Potter
Shelves: reviews-by-mrs-n, fantasy, paranormal
This book's tagline should be: Harry Potter meets Men in Black.
An action-packed, hilarious fast read that reads more like a movie than a book. I was addicted from start to finish and am crossing my fingers they make this into a blockbuster movie.
Wes comes from a police family and the expectations are higher for him than anyone else on the force. His father is the Police Commissioner and his siblings can do no wrong. Wes disobeys one order and his father is tempted to throw him off the force. This book's tagline should be: Harry Potter meets Men in Black.
Wes comes from a police family and the expectations are higher for him than anyone else on the force. His father is the Police Commissioner and his siblings can do no wrong. Wes disobeys one order and his father is tempted to throw him off the force. Instead, Wes is given one last chance.
The Witches Protection Program.
Don't believe in witches? Well, neither did Wes until he met one face-to-face.
Wes doesn't trust his eyes and trusts his partner, Alastair Verne, even less. But he's got to at least pretend to believe witches exist if he wants his badge back and his father's respect.
According to Alastair, there are two groups of witches… one good (Davina) and one bad (Willa). It is the duty of the Davinas to make sure the Willas are kept in check. When a Willa threatens a Davina, they need the help of the Witches Protection Program, a secret government agency.
Something is amiss at Pendragon Cosmetics and it's up to Alastair and Wes to stop it (and protect young Morgan Pendragon) before it's too late.
I absolutely LOVED this book! While I was reading it, I kept thinking about how cool it would be to see this on the big screen. Complete with non-stop action, this fun story answers the question about whether cosmetics run the world. The dialogue is sarcastic and soon you're immersed in a world not unlike our own.
Mystical comedy at its best and a must read! I warn you, though, to not drink a beverage without a lid or else you might spill it from laughing too hard.
Favorite Character: Morgan. I loved how she's innocent, somehow, from her aunt's black magic. She appears more like a Glinda than the Wicked Witch from Oz. I also like how sparks fly between her and Wes but it's not overly-done. The toad part was priceless.
Favorite Quote: Wes shook his head, his foot throbbing like a sore tooth and muttered, "First I'm a chew toy and now I'm stuck with Gandolf and Yoda's prison child as a partner. Help."
Jul 03, 2015 Barbara Desmond rated it really liked it
Got an ARC from Net Galley.
I couldn't resist when I saw the title of this book. How could I pass it up? Nothing gets this girl's attention like the W word. I am glad I was able to get it because this is a really good book. This is a perfect summer read. It isn't too long. I'm not sure if my thinking is weird but I would imagine people would want to read shorter books during the summer and read longer ones when the weather cools down.
The Witches Protection Program is a secret branch of the Got an ARC from Net Galley.
The Witches Protection Program is a secret branch of the police. Wes Rockville comes from a long line of cops is transferred to this unit. He also happens to be dyslexic which is cool since it shows that you can still succeed despite any challenges you might have. He just happens to be that way and it isn't a big deal which I think is a great message since I would imagine some would be embarrassed to admit that they have this problem.
Wes is thrown into a world that he was totally unaware of. He's new on the job and finds himself in the middle of a crazy battle which includes protecting a girl. This is an interesting take on witches. They have the ones that this branch of police are meant to protect and the bad ones. I won't mention what that big battle is about but I found it highly amusing since it is absolutely ridiculous and kinda scary all at the same time. I will certainly be picking up more books from this author since I really enjoyed this book. It is a fun light read which is perfect if you've just finished a book that made you cry or gave you a book hangover.
http://www.ficgal.com/book-club/witch... ...more
Jul 23, 2015 Darcia Helle rated it really liked it
Shelves: fiction, review-copies, ebooks, paranormal-supernatural
This is one of those fun reads that is the perfect distraction from our often too serious lives. We have witches, both good and bad, a secret organization that protects the good ones, a clueless detective, magic, action, humor, and a sprinkle of romance. Boredom should not be an issue with this story.
The cast of characters is entertaining, though not as developed as I'd have liked. I didn't feel I knew the main characters well enough. I loved Junie, who is a minor character with a This is one of those fun reads that is the perfect distraction from our often too serious lives. We have witches, both good and bad, a secret organization that protects the good ones, a clueless detective, magic, action, humor, and a sprinkle of romance. Boredom should not be an issue with this story.
The cast of characters is entertaining, though not as developed as I'd have liked. I didn't feel I knew the main characters well enough. I loved Junie, who is a minor character with a larger-than-life personality.
The plot kept me intrigued and had some good twists along the way. But I also felt there were some holes, or maybe more like unexplained, unanswered questions. For instance, the use of magic and its limitations seemed arbitrary. At times, when magic would have been an easy fix to a situation, it wasn't used. Other times, magic was used to the extreme. I wasn't clear on what could or couldn't be done, or what, if any, the rules were.
This is a quick, enjoyable read that, despite my complaints, kept me engaged throughout.
*I was given a free copy by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.* ...more
Jun 06, 2015 Beth rated it it was amazing
Shelves: own, kindle
I received this copy of Witches Protection Program from Michael Phillip Cash in exchange for a honest review.
Jul 19, 2015 So, I Read This Book Today rated it really liked it · review of another edition
A fun, "witchy" romp "If cats looked like frogs we'd realize what nasty, cruel little bastards they are. Style. That's what people remember." – ― Terry Pratchett, Lords and Ladies
"You are what you believe yourself to be." – ― Paulo Coelho, The Witch of Portobello
Wes Rockville comes from a long line of distinguished family members. Besides the string of famous men and women in his bloodline, his sister is an eminent prosecutor in New York, his brother is the head of counterterrorism, and his dad? A fun, "witchy" romp "If cats looked like frogs we'd realize what nasty, cruel little bastards they are. Style. That's what people remember." – ― Terry Pratchett, Lords and Ladies
Wes Rockville comes from a long line of distinguished family members. Besides the string of famous men and women in his bloodline, his sister is an eminent prosecutor in New York, his brother is the head of counterterrorism, and his dad? Well, his dad is his boss in a police division started by his grandfather. Makes it pretty darn hard to keep up when you're dyslexic, and dad certainly doesn't understand what that means. For his father, dyslexic simply means stupid and incompetent.
But Wes works hard. Harder than his sister, harder than his 'perfect' brother. That is what it takes to overcome dyslexia and become a member of his father's elite squad.
But then, Wes goes on his first assignment. . . And it all goes sideways. "Don't look her in the eye. No matter what you do, don't look her in the eye." Something that seems incredibly stupid. After all, she is just little old lady, apple-cheeked, sweet and cheerful. Why would you not . . .
Now, Wes's father is furious and Wes is disgraced and kicked out of the unit. His last chance? DUMBO.
DUMBO? Like in the Circus?!
Nope. The Department "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass." And this is certainly no circus. Well, maybe it is. Because, Really – Witches?!
Yep. Witches. Good Witches, the Davinas, will be Wes's to protect from the Bad Witches, the Willa.
Only, apparently it is right – and Wes's life is about to be turned on its head. Witches and spells, shapeshifters and things that go bump in the night are all real, and they are all determined to capture tiny little Morgan Pendragon, a Davina with a nasty bunch of women determined to get her back, and apparently take over the world.
Witches Protection Program is a hoot, with a strong undernote of poking very sharp, very pointy sticks at social injustice and political manipulation. Oh, and a strong vein of Steam Punk!!! Woo Hoo!!!!! In other words? I got a kick out of it, and I hope you will read it and enjoy it as well. This book is FREE on Amazon Unlimited, or only .99 on Kindle. Can't beat that!
I received Witches Protection Program from the publisher in exchange for a realistic review. All thoughts are my own.
If you enjoy my reviews, please click over to Amazon and click "This review was Helpful" if you don't mind. It will help the authors by drawing attention to my reviews! Thank you so much. ...more
May 30, 2015 ~JustMel~ rated it it was amazing
Shelves: paranormal, r2r
) An excellent way to start a great book. He seems even more realistic when we learn that he is also dyslexic, but doesn't let it stop him from achieving his dream.
Although this is a story about witches, it wasn't at all what I expected. Growing up in New York myself it was really cool to be able to imagine witches wreaking havoc across the city. Who would have thought they would have a hand in so much! Its also pretty cool how Mr Cash kept the story firmly planted in the present (despite the ) An excellent way to start a great book. He seems even more realistic when we learn that he is also dyslexic, but doesn't let it stop him from achieving his dream.
Although this is a story about witches, it wasn't at all what I expected. Growing up in New York myself it was really cool to be able to imagine witches wreaking havoc across the city. Who would have thought they would have a hand in so much! Its also pretty cool how Mr Cash kept the story firmly planted in the present (despite the steam-punkish weapons, which I absolutely LOVED by the way) by including some of today's celebs. Jennifer Aniston?? Really??? (Read it to find out where she comes up. No spoilers here sorry :) )
The action starts off slow, but quickly ramps up to a grand finale with no one suspecting the reason behind the whole thing. The action scenes are very imaginative and so well described, it's easy to put yourself in the situation and "see" things unfold. At certain points, I found myself yelling at the characters to either run or hide, or to just shut up and listen. I love when an author can get me emotionally involved in their story. There is also a bit of romance swirling through the story and it seems a bit far-fetched that the two characters involved would be so drawn to each so strongly, but after the bombs that are dropped at the end it didn't seem so far-fetched after all. (Once again no spoilers here ...more
Jul 14, 2015 Jalynn Patterson rated it it was amazing
Wes Rockville, a disgraced law enforcement agent, is given one last chance to prove himself and save his career when he's reassigned to a 232 year old secret government organization. The Witches Protection Program. His first assignment: uncover a billion-dollar Cosmetics company's diabolical plan of using witchcraft for global domination, while protecting its heiress Morgan Pendragon from her aunt's evil deeds. Reluctantly paired with veteran witch protector, Alastair Verne, Wes About the Book:
Wes Rockville, a disgraced law enforcement agent, is given one last chance to prove himself and save his career when he's reassigned to a 232 year old secret government organization. The Witches Protection Program. His first assignment: uncover a billion-dollar Cosmetics company's diabolical plan of using witchcraft for global domination, while protecting its heiress Morgan Pendragon from her aunt's evil deeds. Reluctantly paired with veteran witch protector, Alastair Verne, Wes must learn to believe in both witches and himself. Filled with adventure, suspense and a rousing good time, Michael Phillip Cash creates a tongue-in-cheek alternate reality where witches cast spells and wreak havoc in modern day New York City.
Written in typical Michael Phillip Cash fashion, you get a little action, mystery, and humor as part of the overall package of his books. It is a story line that will keep you turning the page until you realize you finished the entire book in one sitting. Wes Rockville better make this last effort count. When he is assigned to a pretty much dead case, he feels that it is utterly hopeless. Soon he is taken on a journey that he never quite expected.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author. ...more
Jul 01, 2015 Jennifer Lara rated it really liked it
Witches Protection Program by Michael Philip Case is about a secret government agency whose mission is to protect good witches and rid the world of the bad witches. Partners, Alastair Verne and Wes Rockville, must protect an heiress from her aunt's evil plans.
The story opens with Wes Rockville in trouble for a botched case. He is being transferred to the Witches Protection Program as his last chance to remain in law enforcement. There he meets, Alastair Verne, a veteran witch protector. The Witches Protection Program by Michael Philip Case is about a secret government agency whose mission is to protect good witches and rid the world of the bad witches. Partners, Alastair Verne and Wes Rockville, must protect an heiress from her aunt's evil plans.
The story opens with Wes Rockville in trouble for a botched case. He is being transferred to the Witches Protection Program as his last chance to remain in law enforcement. There he meets, Alastair Verne, a veteran witch protector. The program protects the good witches known as Davinas while investigating the evil witches known as Willas. They soon hear of an evil plot from within the Pendragon Cosmetic Company and the CEO, Bernadette Pendragon's plans to take over the world. They must also protect heiress, Morgan, from danger. Along with Davina, Junie Meadows, they must stop Bernadette and her evil minions before they can carry out their evil plot.
I enjoyed this book as it was a fast paced and easy read. It was interesting to see the twist on the Witness Protection Program. Although the story was predictable, it was fun and engaging. The author had all the commonly known aspects of witches, such as cat familiar, shape shifting, spells, magic wands and the ability to fly. There was some humor and plenty of action. I recommend this book for those who enjoy the supernatural stories with a modern twist.
Aug 18, 2015 Laura Thomas rated it really liked it
Poor Wes. He's failed again and now he's been given one last chance to prove himself qualified to be in law enforcement. He's sure it's a prank when he's assigned to the Witches Protection Program.
It's no hoax. But it takes some convincing for Wes to believe in witches. He gets it in spades.
His first assignment, protect a witch, heiress Morgan Pendragon, from her evil aunt. Her aunt is cooking up a diabolical scheme to rule the world.
Wes will have to catch on quick if he's to save Morgan and Poor Wes. He's failed again and now he's been given one last chance to prove himself qualified to be in law enforcement. He's sure it's a prank when he's assigned to the Witches Protection Program.
Wes will have to catch on quick if he's to save Morgan and himself from a witches brew of trouble.
This was a fun story with some likable and not so likable characters. Got to take the good with the bad.
Wes is a pain in the beginning. Then he finds his place and becomes someone to cheer for.
Morgan is a reluctant witch, wanting nothing to do with her aunt or the other witches and their schemes. They're not going to give her a choice though.
There's some cool weapons, compelling characters, and a showdown at the end that I wish I could see for myself. Just imagine the pile-up when drivers look up and see witches flying in the sky.
I like a good witch, but I have a thing for the bad ones too. There's one, Morgan's aunt, who will chill you to the bone. Too powerful for anyone's good.
Grab a broomstick and hang on tight. It's a bumpy ride.
I received this book as a gift. ...more
Oct 15, 2015 Giedre rated it it was amazing
Now this is what I call a good book! Such an interesting action filled little book! It felt like a crossover between Devil Wears Prada and Neverwhere. It grabs you from page one and doesn't let go until the very end. Writing is just so beautiful and delicious I kept finding myself looking for reasons to take a break from reading so the book would last longer haha. I didn't expect the book to be so good. To tell you the truth it took me awhile to pick it up just because I found the cover so Now this is what I call a good book! Such an interesting action filled little book! It felt like a crossover between Devil Wears Prada and Neverwhere. It grabs you from page one and doesn't let go until the very end. Writing is just so beautiful and delicious I kept finding myself looking for reasons to take a break from reading so the book would last longer haha. I didn't expect the book to be so good. To tell you the truth it took me awhile to pick it up just because I found the cover so off-putting. And yes I shouldn't judge the book from its cover but, let's be honest, we all do. I still think that cover doesn't to the book justice. It seems a tad outdated. Over than that the book is just flawless. I want more. 5 fat stars and then some.
P.S. Thanks NetGalley for ARC. ...more
Jun 14, 2015 Nancy Reynolds rated it it was amazing
Loved this book from the very first page to the very last. And I certainly hope this was just one of a series with the cast of characters introduced in this book - because it definitely has all the elements of an entire series to it. Witches alive and living among us mere humans - every day in every way? Yep, it's true - and there's a special branch of police to protect the good witches from the bad. At least, that's what we are told - and shown - in the book. Lots of fun twists and turns, lots Loved this book from the very first page to the very last. And I certainly hope this was just one of a series with the cast of characters introduced in this book - because it definitely has all the elements of an entire series to it. Witches alive and living among us mere humans - every day in every way? Yep, it's true - and there's a special branch of police to protect the good witches from the bad. At least, that's what we are told - and shown - in the book. Lots of fun twists and turns, lots of "quirky" characters, and a thoroughly fast and furious read. I loved it! Thank you, Mr. Cash, for such a great tale. Please, please promise you're writing more about the WPP in future books. ...more
Aug 09, 2017 Laura Berlin rated it really liked it
An enjoyable action packed surprise! I felt like I was watching a movie. Wonderful imagery. I look forward to a Book 2.
Jul 19, 2015 So, I Read This Book Today rated it really liked it
"If cats looked like frogs we'd realize what nasty, cruel little bastards they are. Style. That's what people remember." - ― Terry Pratchett, Lords and Ladies
"You are what you believe yourself to be." - ― Paulo Coelho, The Witch of Portobello
Wes Rockville comes from a long line of distinguished family members. Besides the string of famous men and women in his bloodline, his sister is an eminent prosecutor in New York, his brother is the head of counterterrorism, and his dad? Well, his dad is his "If cats looked like frogs we'd realize what nasty, cruel little bastards they are. Style. That's what people remember." - ― Terry Pratchett, Lords and Ladies
Witches Protection Program is a hoot, with a strong undertone of poking very sharp, very pointy sticks at social injustice and political manipulation. Oh, and a strong vein of Steam Punk!!! Woo Hoo!!!!! In other words? I got a kick out of it, and I hope you will read it and enjoy it as well. This book is FREE on Amazon Unlimited, or only .99 on Kindle. Can't beat that!
May 26, 2015 David Savage rated it it was amazing
Witches Protection Program is the exciting new novel from Michael Phillip Cash about a secret government agency that protects good witches while stopping the bad witches who live amongst us.
This story is about two different sects of witches; the Davinas who only use their witchcraft for good and selfless reasons and the Willas who use their craft for bad and selfish reasons and these witches have lived in secret among everyday humans for hundreds of years. The Witches Protection Program is a 232 Witches Protection Program is the exciting new novel from Michael Phillip Cash about a secret government agency that protects good witches while stopping the bad witches who live amongst us.
This story is about two different sects of witches; the Davinas who only use their witchcraft for good and selfless reasons and the Willas who use their craft for bad and selfish reasons and these witches have lived in secret among everyday humans for hundreds of years. The Witches Protection Program is a 232 year old secret government organisation set up to protect the Davinas from the Willas.
Wes Rockville is a disgraced state police officer and after losing a suspect during a prisoner transfer he is re-assigned to the Witches Protection Program, the only problems being that he has never heard of it and certainly doesn't believe in witches!
His first assignment is to uncover and stop a worldwide cosmetics company's plan for global domination by using a new facecream that has a secret ingredient, witch DNA. As part of this investigation he also has to protect the company's heiress, Morgan Pendragon, from her beloved aunt's evil plan. But to do this he first has to believe in witches and witchcraft as well as overcoming his own problems.
Overall, this is another great read from Michael Phillip Cash. This fantasy story flows very well and is very easy to read, pure escapism building up into a fast-paced exciting finish. With a mix of magic, action, love and some great characters after the first few chapters I couldn't put it down! All the characters are strong and all have their flaws; Wes Rockville is a policeman just trying to prove himself in his overachieving family, Morgan the good witch doesn't really like using witchcraft, Junie "Baby Fat" Meadows is an ugly witch with a magic mirror and mean stew while Bernadette is a man hating, bad witch hell bent on world domination with women ruling the world and enslaving men.
The Witches Protection Program is pure entertainment that has thrills, excitement, humour and surprises, what more could you want from a novel? An excellent story to escape the rigours of day-to-day life and be immersed in a world where witchcraft does exist, and who knows, maybe it does!
Michael Phillip Cash is an excellent storyteller and no matter what genre he is writing about he manages to write thoroughly enjoyable stories and the Witches Protection Program is definitely one to read. ...more
Jun 25, 2015 Wanda Maynard rated it it was amazing
Throw in a pinch of romance, add just a touch of heroism, and a dash of intrigue, and what do you have? A spell of a good story. Yes, another expert work of artistry by a very gifted and wonderful author. Michael Phillip Cash, has weaved together an intensely picturesque tale. WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM was very skillfully written and so fast-paced I didn't want to put the book down. The scenes kept bursting forth , like a whirlwind, as each chapter opened up with new excitement. The characters Throw in a pinch of romance, add just a touch of heroism, and a dash of intrigue, and what do you have? A spell of a good story. Yes, another expert work of artistry by a very gifted and wonderful author. Michael Phillip Cash, has weaved together an intensely picturesque tale. WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM was very skillfully written and so fast-paced I didn't want to put the book down. The scenes kept bursting forth , like a whirlwind, as each chapter opened up with new excitement. The characters were unbelievable and practical, and so well described that I found myself seemingly pulled into the story. I loved all the characters, even the wicked ones, because they made me so
angry. But my two favorite characters of the whole story were Wes and Morgan,
Wes Rockville, as far as his dad was concerned, had messed up for the last time. He called him into his office and asked for his police badge. Then after a long argument with his son, he handed Wes a small scrap of paper, and refusing to listen to what Wes had to say, he then told him he was being reassigned. Wes wondered why he was being
dismissed without a second chance, like a child, and, even though his heart wasn't in it, and he didn't believe in witches anyway; Still, with the look of doubt written all over his face, he memorized the letters on the paper, then burned it, and was told to go and find
Alastair. Wes didn't like it, but he went.
Once Wes found Alastair, and was shown where he would be working, Alastair began preparation on how to help Wes and show him his job description. Wes thinking he was at some government place, but still didn't feel right about it, didn't quiet understand. There is no such thing as witches, right? so why was Alastair telling him and showing him all of this nonsense about them? Why did he need to know about it? Was it for his own protection in case he came across a witch? How could it be, if they weren't genuine in the first place? Then he met Morgan. Will Wes get through this assignment without any scratches? Will he fall head over heels deeper in trouble? Or will he be reassigned somewhere else and forever be cast out of that program too? A wonderful must read. ...more
Jun 13, 2015 Philip Bailey rated it it was amazing
A bewitching and whimsical lighthearted look at a world with witches all around us. Who knew? In a story showing imaginative creativity Mr. Cash spins a tale to rival any ghostbuster story. This is a refreshing read when one considers the actuality of the witch craze that swept Europe and invaded America. Hanging and burning at the stakes were the order of the day during these times as tales told with fervent imagination by witnesses against the accused. These victims were often the very persons A bewitching and whimsical lighthearted look at a world with witches all around us. Who knew? In a story showing imaginative creativity Mr. Cash spins a tale to rival any ghostbuster story. This is a refreshing read when one considers the actuality of the witch craze that swept Europe and invaded America. Hanging and burning at the stakes were the order of the day during these times as tales told with fervent imagination by witnesses against the accused. These victims were often the very persons who attempted to aid others with their knowledge of healing herbs and other cures passed down through generations. Tales of blasphemy exaggerated with descriptions of speaking in tongues and consorting, often intimately, with Satan spelled out a death sentence for the accused. Visions of witches flying through the sky were induced by the hallucinogenic effects of certain herbs administered by these healers, often midwives. The hysteria swept up many innocents and is now a shameful paragraph in history. Nowhere is the solemn nature of the past more prevalent than perhaps in Salem Massachusetts where at the same time a presence of current Wicca can be found. No doubt some true to their belief and some wannabes. So I read The Witches Protection Program taking great pleasure in a story well told of subject no doubt all but forgotten except during the one night of the year known as Halloween. It is likely many young people of today have no idea of history past as relates to witches, but thanks to the internet this information is available to the curious, and a prodding by authors such as Mr. Cash will hopefully send a few in search of a bit more knowledge, the big plus of reading. Kudos for shedding light on the subject and five stars for the entertainment value of a valid subject. ...more
Jun 15, 2015 Maria rated it really liked it
Wes screwed up and he has one chance to fix it, but it involves beliving in the unbelivable. He must come into this crazy new world and begin to understand his way around it pretty quick if he hopes to protect his charge and yes save the world.
Poor Wes. It's a thought I had throughout the book as he is stuck in one bad or crazy situation after another. But he uses his smarts to prove himself time and again and he is such a sweetie even when he is trying to be tough.
Morgan is spunky and won't let Wes screwed up and he has one chance to fix it, but it involves beliving in the unbelivable. He must come into this crazy new world and begin to understand his way around it pretty quick if he hopes to protect his charge and yes save the world.
Morgan is spunky and won't let anyone dictate her actions no matter who they are. She does things her way and if you get in her way she does what she has to to get you out of it! Of course not accepting help does tend to cause problems for her and she slowly learns her leason throughout the story.
There are several POV's but these two are the main ones as we see them working apart and eventually together to stop a scheme the could ruin the world. The story is interesting and I enjoyed watching the interactions between all the characters between the funny times and those times when you just wanna smack someone upside the head. You feel like you are right there with them in their world.
My only complaint is I wanted to read more about this world of witches to better understand things in the story, sometimes it felt like there was something not explained well enough is it left me a bit confused. Overall though this was an enjoyable read and I'm excited to see more of this world! ...more
Jun 15, 2015 Denise Bloomfield rated it it was amazing
Well...Michael Phillip Cash has done it again! Another fantastic book!! Just when I thought he couldn't possibly come up with new characters different and unique and a totally new theme and story line full of twists...he proves me wrong! The characters are interesting, intriguing, and even captivating. They really make this book a intriguing read. Wes Rockville (is my favorite) is an agent who needs to prove himself..to his Dad, or so it seems..but also more importantly, to himself. Although he Well...Michael Phillip Cash has done it again! Another fantastic book!! Just when I thought he couldn't possibly come up with new characters different and unique and a totally new theme and story line full of twists...he proves me wrong! The characters are interesting, intriguing, and even captivating. They really make this book a intriguing read. Wes Rockville (is my favorite) is an agent who needs to prove himself..to his Dad, or so it seems..but also more importantly, to himself. Although he doesn't believe in Witches at the start-he soon has a change of heart as he finds the Witches Protection Program to be a program he does believe in. I really couldn't put this book down and literally..I didn't until I finished it. This actually may be one of my favorite books yet and it really needs to turn into a series. I can see a whole series revolving around the Witches Protection Program. I really hope there is a sequel in the works! (Hint! Hint!).
Self Disclosure: I purchased for my own collections. ...more
Jun 11, 2015 Charissa Wilkinson rated it really liked it
I received this book for a fair review.
Overview: Wes Rockville is having the worst day. First, he loses his dream job due to the prisoner's escape. Then, he joins a team that asks him to believe the unbelievable. Witches are real? Please, how's he supposed to believe that? Oh well, he just has to solve one case, then he can go back to his dream job. So what's so important about Pendragon Cosmetics? And how does Morgan Pendragon fit in?
Likes: This is a pretty light-hearted read. Wes is a guy I received this book for a fair review.
Likes: This is a pretty light-hearted read. Wes is a guy that tries his best, even though we all know that he is in over his head.
Alastair is strong enough to stand firm, and yet wise enough to know when to bend.
And Junie is fun to watch, but I'm not eating anything she gives me.
Dislikes: This book would be good for all ages, if not for one scene. It's a fight against a witch on a bridge. Parts of that scene can easily lead to an uncomfortable discussion with the younger crowd.
Conclusion: This is a great book. Light-hearted and fun, enjoy the ride with Wes. Don't miss the cargo ships being turned back to port.
Dec 16, 2015 Shealea rated it it was ok
Before anything else, I received a free digital copy of this book (via Netgalley) from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Michael Phillip Cash and Chelshire Inc., Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA)!
In this paranormal, urban fantasy novel, its main character, Wes Rockville, struggles to meet the expectations that come with being a part of an overachieving family and proves to be an incompetent law enforcement agent, especially in the eyes of his father. Because Before anything else, I received a free digital copy of this book (via Netgalley) from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Michael Phillip Cash and Chelshire Inc., Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA)!
In this paranormal, urban fantasy novel, its main character, Wes Rockville, struggles to meet the expectations that come with being a part of an overachieving family and proves to be an incompetent law enforcement agent, especially in the eyes of his father. Because of this, he is reassigned to a 232 year old secret government movement called – as promised by the book's title – the Witches Protection Program.
Some time in history, the sisterhood of witches began to turn on each other. Eventually, they split into two factions: the Davinas and the Willa. The Davinas use their magic for the benefit of mankind by mastering the methods of medicine and healing, whereas the Willa witches use their powers to create mayhem in society. With that said, it is the program's mission to protect the good witches. (Segue: The law that created this organization was established under the secret legislation of George Washington!)
The first thing I noticed about Cash's writing style was the great use of imagery. The amount of descriptions was enough to clearly paint the scene in my mind, but not too excessive that it distracted me from the plot itself. In fact, the novel was easy to read.
The characters, however, were not particularly likable. Wes, Alistair, Junie (Segue: What kind of nickname is Baby Fat? Sorry. I just had to bring it up.), Morgan and the other characters were tolerable at best. I did not grow fond of any of them. I guess this is because I failed to see any character development at all within the story.
First and foremost, Wes came off as bratty, stubborn and – I cannot emphasize this enough – whiny. For someone who has an entire family that breathes and thrives on law enforcement, Wes sure can moan and grumble about his shortcomings while failing to see the bigger picture that is the common good. Additionally, for a male protagonist, he simply lacked empathy. Not to mention the gutsto actually be a hero. I mean, he did not even exert any effort to cope and learn to deal with the magical environment he was suddenly thrust into.
Secondly, Junie's character was not fleshed out well. If anything, she was a cookie-cutter. What with the whole 'ugly on the outside, but with a heart of gold' thing she was supposed to portray.
Actually, I had an issue with every character in the novel. But I did not despise any of them per se. Like I said, they were tolerable at best. I did dislike Morgan's aunt, Bernadette, though.
Anyway, to summarize everything I've read, the story itself is all right. However, I did spot a few glaring plot holes and some things just did not add up or make any sense to me. One prime example is the training Wes underwent in order to be fully prepared to take down witches, or more accurately, the lack thereof. His orientation and education regarding the world of witchcraft consisted of a ten-minute long infomercial and an immediate introduction to weapons he had never seen before in his entire life. It baffles me how and why Alistair immediately pushed Wes into the witch war frontlines, so to speak. Personally, I think more thought has to be put into this book. A number of things were overlooked, which lessened the overall realistic quality of the story. Like I said, some things lacked sensibility.
Honestly, this was not an engrossing read for me. I guess that it just isn't my cup of tea. But of course, my two cents don't speak for everyone. As far as I know, this book has received numerous glowing reviews from other readers. I'm sure that although this book did not completely capture my attention, there are a number of people who would find this book enjoyable.
Actual rating: 2 stars
* Read more reviews @ That Bookshelf Bitch ...more
2015 Reading Chal...: Witches Protection Program by Michael Phillip Cash 3 9 Nov 01, 2015 02:57PM
Cover Art 1 4 Oct 26, 2015 01:55PM
Fantasy > Paranormal
Fantasy > Urban Fantasy
Fantasy > Magic
About Michael Phillip Cash
Born and raised on Long Island, Michael has always had a fascination with horror writing and found footage films. He wanted to incorporate both with his debut novel, Brood X. Earning a degree in English and an MBA, he has worked various jobs before settling into being a full-time author. He currently resides on Long Island with his wife and children.
Books by Michael Phillip Cash
Trivia About Witches Protectio...
Quotes from Witches Protectio...
"If I was a man, everybody would marvel at my aggression. I'd be called a go-getter, ambitious. People would respect me. However, I am a woman, so I am controlling and bossy and dictatorial." — 0 likes