The Dream of John the Baptist interweaves reality with a mythical world, appealing to those who want an easy and humorous read. This is not a religious book, though the title may denote this. A woman named Ruby miraculously recovers from her death bed to find everything she's worked for all her life has no meaning. When her best friend unexpectedly dies, she's left a cat, a meager stipend to take care of it, and a collapsing cottage in the countryside next to a crumbling monastery with a kindly- but insane- priest. There she tries to find peace growing roses, until discovering the monastery's gentle gardener is actually a Satyr (half-man, half- beast). He confesses he's only there to get a powerful relic, the Silver Platter that once held the head of John the Baptist. The priest, unaware of his platters glorious history, keeps it inside and when the kindly Satyr disappears, his son a handsome Changeling (still looking human before "the change" into a beast), takes his place. Convincing Ruby to help him get the platter, he explains that it possesses potent energies needed to save the people of his world. He and his friends (other Changelings) form an alliance with Ruby- until she stumbles upon their dark secret. A horrific battle ensues between the forces of good and evil, and in the end Ruby, with her gaggle of misfit friend's, including the nurse Jabs (a sex fiend), her brother (a 98 LB weakling), and a blind sword fighter all help her slay the beasts. Ruby also dreams of winning a flower competition at the county fair, but must contend with two crazy cohorts, the pompous, biscuit-gobbling M.W.III, and the wicked hunchback Widow Spencer; both of whom not only batters her cat, but also flambes her flowers in order to keep the awards for themselves. This voyage is loaded with lush visuals and timeless pleasures, and the urgent message to enjoy today because tomorrow may never come. Put your twinkling cap on and prepare to be transported. www, annetteangel.com