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In conversation With Bestselling Author Lloyd Pilling Tosoff

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Lloyd Pilling Tosoff books have been a huge hit with readers setting off shockwaves on social media streams, which is not surprise since each and every one is a phenomenal work of literary art. “Children of Pleiades, Rise of the Henge” is a must read this season, and we believe it will hit the bestseller list very soon given the level of excitement it continues to generate.

“Children of Pleiades, Rise of the Henge” is the first book in this two book series, taking readers deep into a fascinating world, one where the children of a sacred bloodline are haunted by a murder perpetrated by an ancestor. The struggle between good and evil plays a very real role in this epic story, which is very much a human drama but it is also teeming with superstition and folklore, including an otherworld of pixies, faeries, angels, and legends of visitations from star men.

Pilling Tosoff takes readers on an epic journey, and recently we caught up with him to learn more about this talented writer, his work and when his next book is coming out.

“Children of Pleiades, Rise of the Henge” is a two-part series, which is quite brilliant, what was it like for you to write a series? What was your biggest challenge, and conversely what was the most fun aspect for you? 

The truth is, it was not intended to be a series. The project started to take shape in 2012 as a historical fiction novel influenced by my writing hero, Ken Follett. After writing several highly descriptive passages such as the following: “Blue shadows cast by trees that lined the beaten dirt path kept a chill in the early morning air as the foliage on low hanging branches lit up golden from the first rays of the rising sun that spilled onto the forest floor. The reddish tint of the treefall carpeted the ground between massive trunks of ancient oak trees and filled his nostrils with a pleasing musty smell. Tiny bluebells perfumed the air with a delicate fragrance, hanging their curved tepals as if bowing in reverence to the sun. The glory of the morning made Gwain’s heart soar with the joy of being alive.” I soon realized that there is only one Ken Follett, and I was going down a rabbit hole that would lead to nowhere. I retained the idea of an ancient historical theme but decided to make it a human story of murder, lust, jealousy, envy, and the gamut of earthly emotions set against the background of superstition, folklore and legend that stirred the hearts of the people of Briton at the time. Over a period of several years, while writing a few other novels, the project became very lengthy, so I decided to cut it in half and make it a two-novel series. The biggest challenge was researching the history of henges, belief in an Otherworld, religious practices of the day, and ensuring the historical aspects of the story were accurate. I am not sure I would label the writing process as “fun” and would rather say I love to write because I know how to get inside the heads and hearts of my characters.

You have written eight epic books, which have caused a stir in the literary world. I know this is a bit like asking you which of your children you love the most, but I am going to ask anyway – do you have a favorite book you have written? And why is it your favorite? 

“Escape from Konigsberg” received a flattering Kirkus review and wonderful response from my readers. Based on a true story, it follows a young Prussian boy, Walter Heinrich as he watches his beloved home of Königsberg, East Prussia fall into communist hands during the last days of WWII. Faced with unspeakable tragedy, the scholarly 16-year-old bravely escapes, along with his two young sisters on what may have been the last coal train to Berlin where Walter begins a quest that changes his life forever.  A coming-of-age war novel that touches the heart and evokes deeply felt emotion tells of the terrible atrocities that befell the German people in the wake of a brutal war. Kirkus described it as a realistic rendering of a horrific period in German history, and “beautifully depicted” in its portrayal of a romantic affair in the midst of the destruction of the 700-hundred-year-old mediaeval city at the hands of the Red Army and the Allied bombing campaign. It is my favorite novel because of its real-life depth, in a story of love, loss, and hope.

Covid has been challenging for most people, what has it been like for you to keep your creativity flowing during this time?

My wife/editor and I live on a secluded acreage in the heart of the west coast Canadian rain forest. I am a lone wolf for the most part, so the lack of social contact during this pandemic has not been particularly mind altering as I have spent the last decade producing a large body of artistic work. I would say that I have not been affected artistically by Covid 19. We miss our children and other family members but hopefully things will begin to normalize as the pandemic is mitigated by the soon to be available vaccines.

You are both an author and a songwriter, telling stories in different ways. What inspired you to start writing books, and do these two modalities have things in common that you find compelling?

In short, they both use words. As a writer, musician, and painter, however, I can tell you that all art forms are inspired and emerge from the same creative place. My daughter Amanda is a prominent jazz composer and recording artist and we often talk about the creative process as the expression of artistic language. As a writer I love words, but I also recognize that at a prima facie level, they are at best symbols somewhat removed from the primal level of subtext and emotion. The language of all art forms can be simply stated in my view as the persuasive and articulate use of light, space, form, color, movement, and sound. Words, whether in a song or in a novel, must connect the reader or listener to an emotional experience through the use of the aforementioned aspects that are at the ground of all artistic expression.  

I am now a huge fan of your work. Is there another book in the works?

Part two of the Children of Pleiades series, “The Curse of Nordumaal” will follow “Rise of the Henge”, likely in June of 2021. After that, I have a Canadian Crime Thriller, “Black Diamond Conspiracy”.  Thirty-one-year-old former airline baggage handler, Jason Black miraculously survives the crash of his light aircraft near the town of Canmore in the Canadian Rockies. After lifesaving brain surgery, he awakens from a coma with no memory of who he was before the crash. Black is helped to uncover his past by the young woman who discovers the severely injured pilot as he lay slumped over the controls of his downed plane. The recollection casts a shadow over his second chance at life when he finds out that he was involved in a diamond smuggling ring. Forced into finding diamonds missing from the crash site, he faces the wrath of the mob boss and pursuit by a rogue cop for a double murder he did not commit.

You can find out more about Lloyd Pilling Tosoff and his work on his website. https://lloydtosoff.com

Michelle has been a part of the journey ever since Bigtime Daily started. As a strong learner and passionate writer, she contributes her editing skills for the news agency. She also jots down intellectual pieces from categories such as science and health.

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Lifestyle

Hardwood Floors Refinishing: Top Care Tips for a Lasting Shine

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Revamping your hardwood floors requires both a time and financial investment, yet the returns are evident in the enhanced aesthetics and functionality of your residential or commercial area. However, the longevity and durability of these newly refinished floors are contingent upon proper maintenance. This detailed guide is designed to offer expert guidance on how to preserve the quality and look of your newly refinished hardwood floors. We’ll cover a variety of subjects, from the science of wood aging and types of wood that need more frequent treatment, to top tips for floor upkeep. Your investment in hardwood floor refinishing need not be short-lived; with the correct care, it can be a long-term enhancement to your property.

Tips for Ensuring Durability in Your Newly Refinished Floors

After you have spent money on hardwood floor refinishing, maintaining their condition becomes a top priority. Here are strategies to prolong the lifespan and appearance of your updated flooring.

1. Regular Cleaning

A clean floor is a happy floor. Use a microfiber mop or cloth to pick up dust, dirt, and grime daily if possible. For a deeper clean, opt for cleaning products specifically designed for hardwood floors. Make sure to read the labels and opt for pH-neutral cleaners that are free from abrasives or harsh chemicals. Weekly or bi-weekly, consider a gentle vacuuming with a hardwood-friendly vacuum cleaner to remove debris that may have settled between the wood planks.

2. Use Protective Pads

One of the most effective ways to prevent scratches and dents on your hardwood floors is to place felt pads under the legs of furniture. This simple step can go a long way in preserving the smooth finish of your floor. You should also replace these pads every few months, as they can wear down or accumulate grime, reducing their effectiveness.

3. Control Humidity

Fluctuating indoor humidity levels can wreak havoc on hardwood floors. Excessive moisture can cause the wood to swell, leading to issues like cupping or buckling, while too little moisture can cause wood to shrink, leading to gaps between planks. Invest in a quality hygrometer to measure your home’s humidity level, and aim to keep it between 30% and 50%. Use a humidifier during dry months and a dehumidifier during humid months to maintain optimal conditions.

4. Proper Spill Management

Accidents are inevitable, but the way you handle them can make all the difference. Whether it’s water, juice, or wine, if you spill liquid on your hardwood floor, wipe it up immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid using paper towels as they can disintegrate and get stuck in the crevices of the wood. Also, never let liquids sit on the wood, as they can seep in and cause staining or warping.

5. No Shoes Policy

Implement a ‘no shoes’ policy to preserve your floors. Shoes can bring in dirt, gravel, and other harmful debris from outside. If a full-blown ‘no shoes’ policy isn’t realistic for your household, at least insist on no high heels or sports cleats, which can cause dents and scratches. You might also consider placing a high-quality doormat at entrances to trap dirt before it gets to your floor.

6. Regular Inspections

Every three to six months, set aside time to inspect your hardwood floors meticulously. Use natural light or a bright lamp to look for scratches, dents, or areas where the finish might be wearing off. If you catch these issues early, you may be able to address them with a simple touch-up rather than a full refinishing job.

7. Refresher Coats

Although your newly refinished floors look amazing now, they won’t stay that way forever without some upkeep. Consider applying a ‘refresher’ coat of finish every two to three years. This isn’t as invasive or time-consuming as a full refinishing project. Instead, it’s more like a topcoat that adds an extra layer of protection, keeping your floors looking vibrant and shiny.

8. Scheduled Expert Cleaning

A yearly cleaning session by professionals can dramatically enhance the condition of your hardwood floors. Specialized machinery and products are used to eliminate tough dirt, renew the wood’s natural shine, and smooth out minor imperfections. This process not only rejuvenates your flooring but also prolongs its lifespan, maintaining its fresh appearance for an extended time.

Advantages of Consistent Upkeep

Routine care for your restored hardwood floors does more than maintain their visual appeal; it also prolongs their durability, augmenting the long-term value of your property. Floors that are regularly cared for can endure for many years, negating the need for frequent, costly refinishing. In addition, a structured care regimen lessens the likelihood that small defects will escalate into serious issues, thus promoting a cleaner and more healthful living area. In summary, regular maintenance serves as a long-term financial benefit and a means of sustaining your home’s elegance.

When To Seek Professional Help

If you notice persistent issues like deep scratches, stubborn stains, or any form of water damage, it’s best to seek professional help. Specialists in hardwood floors refinishing can assess the situation and provide targeted solutions. Companies like 1DayRefinishing offer an extensive range of services that can effectively address these problems. Notably, the company specializes in a one-day turnaround, making them a convenient option for those in need of quick yet high-quality refinishing solutions.

Finding Trustworthy Services for Floor Refinishing

If you’re in a location with scarce local options, consider exploring 1 DAY Refinishing. Their seasoned experts offer complete solutions for maintaining and refinishing hardwood floors, helping to keep them pristine for the long haul.

Final Thoughts

The decision to invest in refinishing your hardwood floors is a significant commitment to enhancing your home’s aesthetics and overall value. By diligently following proper maintenance routines, your refinished floors can continue to elevate your home’s ambience. Every effort, from regular cleaning, to hiring professionals, adds to the resilience and visual allure of your hardwood floors. Stick to these essential care guidelines, and your floors will maintain their lustre for an extended period.

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